tallaght news

tallagHt News©

100% IRISH OWNED11TH MARCH 2013 P.O. BOx 3430, TALLAGHT, DuBLIn 24 TeL: 451 3822 email: [email protected] web: www.newsgroup.ie

CoNt. page 2

DO YOU HAVE A QUERY WHICH RELATES TO:LITIGATION● Personal Injury Claims / P.I.A.B.● Employment Matters● Debt Collection● Medical Negligence

FAMILY LAW● Divorce● Judicial Separation● Separation Agreements/● Maintenance Applications

Ballyowen Castle,Ballyowen Shopping Centre, Lucan, Co. Dublin

Call 01-6105185 or 01-6760555Buying / Selling or RemortgagingCALL NOW FOR A CONSULTATION

APPOINTMENTS ON SATURDAY AVAILABLE

Have you been injured in an accidenton the road, in the workplace, as aresult of medical misadventure or ina public area? If so, you will beinterested to note that ROMAINESCALLY & COMPANY SOLICITORS OFMAIN STREET, TALLAGHT, DUBLIN 24TEL: 01 4599506, E-MAIL:[email protected], have nowlaunched their new ACCIDENTHOTLINE (lo-call 1890 947076). Forurgent advice and earlyappointments to discuss youraccident please call this numberwhere you will be assuredprofessional advice to deal with youraccident. With over 30 yearsexperience dealing with accident

cases, we offer you the benefit of ouradvice to deal with all the legalaspects of your accident and will onrequest process your claim efficientlyand speedily.

CALL US NOw ON 1890 947076Romaine Scally & Company Solicitorsare situated at Main Street, Tallaght,Dublin 24 and have a dedicated teamof people specially trained in allaspects of the law surroundingaccidents. DON’T DELAY – CONTACT US TODAY.

Romaine Scally & Co, Solicitorsoperate a FREE LEGAL ADVICECLINIC. See Romaine’s legal columnon page 18 for full details

HaVe you beeN INJureDIN aN aCCIDeNt?

or Do you NeeD aDVICe oN faMIly law, probate / wIlls?

Acupressure&

AcupunctureSpecialist

Located inTallaght Village

from €50 per session

8 Years Experience

Specialising In:● Back Pain● Frozen Shoulder● HeadacheFor appointment ring

087 05 77 555

Sinn Féinrepresentative SeánCrowe TD has said thatyet another increase inthe number ofindividuals and familiesin morgage arrears isanother strongindicator that thegovernment’s policy isfailing.

Deputy Seán Crowestated “This latestincrease must act as awake- up call to theGovernment and isanother strongindicator that theirpolicy in this area is notworking.

“The number in March2011 in arrears was49,609. The situationclearly got worse and

rose in September 2012to 91,358 accounts(11.5 per cent)according to theCentral Bank. Some94,488 or 11.9% ofprincipal dwellinghouses (PDH) were inarrears of over 90 daysat end-December. Thiscontinuing increaseafter two years of FineGael and Labourgovernment shows thattheir policy is clearlyfailing a big proportionof house owners.

“Figures show thatthere are now 185,882households in mortgagedistress.That is awhopping 23.5% of alldomestic mortgages.

“A shocking figure for

any government but wewere informed thisweek that they will notexempt those in arrearsfrom their new FamilyHome Tax. This extratax will inevitably tipthose morgage holdersalready in arrearsfurther into distress andpush a greater numberof those struggling topay into arrears.

“Two years of a FineGael and Labourgovernment has seenthe number in arrearsof over 90 days nearlydouble.The PersonalInsolvency Act that wastalked up byGovernment will donothing to force thebanks and other lendersto face the morgage

distress problem andleaves them with thefinal say.

“When this the Bill waspublished Sinn Féinargued that it wasessential that theproposed InsolvencyService be independentand that a morehumane approach toindividuals inbankruptcy wasneeded.

“It has been a bitterdisappointment to thetens of thousands offamilies that are inmortgage distress, thatthe Bill provides for thebanks having completepower in relation to

Mortgages arrearsNearly Double

2 Your FREE Local Newspaper

Find us on

SUPPLIERS & INSTALLERS OF:● WINDOWS● DOORS● CONSERVATORIES● BI FOLDING DOORS● SHOP FRONTS

CONTACT US FOR A FREE QUOTATION TODAY ONTEL 01 521 5341 MOB 086 398 0251 EMAIL [email protected]

wHole House offer● 6 white pVC a-rated windows● with high securty locks● 1 white single back Door● with 10 point locking system● 1 front Door with a range● of designs available● New white pVC window boards

we also supply full raNge of CoMposIte Doors

FULL REPAIR SERVICE ALSO AVAILABLE

baCk Door offersingle pVC back Door suppied & fitted from €690

freNCH Doors offersuppied & fitted from €995full range of colours available

from €3,995 Inc Vat

Inc Vat

Inc Vat

CruMlIN & CloNDalkIN DeNture serVICeALL NEW DENTURES MADE● Repairs ● Relines ● Missing Teeth Added

Also - Chrome Cobalt Dental Plates(FREE Palate Designs)

THIN ● LIGHTwEIGHT ● TIGHT FITTING ● FLExIBLE

100% GUARANTEED NOT TO BREAkIDEAL FOR PARTIAL DENTURE USERS

Near St. Agnes ChurchCrumlin Denture Service21A St Agnes Rd.Crumlin, Dublin 12 Tel: 455 0992

Facing Laurels PubClondalkin Denture ServiceShangrila HouseNew Road, Dublin 22 Tel: 4111 648

NEW FROM AMERICAUNBREAKABLE DENTURES

ALSO● TEETH wHITENING 2 TYPES

● 1 LAzERLIGHT wHITENING

● 2 GELTEETH wHITENING

bIg reDuCtIoNs for medical card holdersoN New DeNtures!

Direct Via M50

personal insolvencyarrangements.

“Sinn Féin submitted anumber of amendmentsand had called for anIndependent Agencyempowered to enforcelegally bindingsettlements on debtorand creditor. The onlyother option open topeople in serious

arrears is bankruptcy.“While we welcomedthe shortening of thebankruptcy term from12 to three years, weare mindful that anyoneentering bankruptcycouldl lose all theirassets, including theirhome.“Our position has beenconsistent."People should be

helped to remain livingin their homes and thatthe newly establishedIndependent Agencyexamine in acase-by-case basis, howto actually make amortgage debtsustainable."Figures from theCentral Bank of those inmorgage distressconfirm that the

individuals and familiesin morgage arrears isgrowing highlights theneed for a newapproach including theappointment of anIndependent body withthe power to compelbanks to come up withfair and equitable dealsincluding write downsfor those in morgagedistress."

Mortgages arrears Nearly Double ............froM page 1

Judging of the entries submitted for this year’s 59th Texaco Children’s ArtCompetition is under way. Winners will be announced at a function to be held in Dublin in early-April.Going for judging is one of the entries received from Dublin – a work entitled‘The Mind’s Construction in the Face’ by 17-year old Caitriona Ryan, a pupilat St. Colmcille’s Community School, Knocklyon.Admiring it is competition administrator Anne-Marie Barnes.

teXaCo art JuDgINg uNDerway

A Rated Windows &Doors

3Your FREE Local Newspaper

INsItu DesIgN @ fasHIoN CIty

OPEN: MONDAY - FRIDAY 10AM TO 4PM SATURDAY 10AM TO 2PM

UNIT 46 FASHION CITY, BALLYMOUNT, DUBLIN 24 (EXIT 10 - M50)Tel: 01 4295734 email: [email protected]

Spring Sale

SOFAS FROM ONLY €295WALNUT DINING SETS REDUCED TO €495

MATCHING WALNUT COFFEE TABLES €149BREAKFAST BAR STOOLS €59

SUPER QUALITY THREE DRAWER OAKBEDSIDE LOCKERS €149

LARGE COLLECTION OF WALL MIRRORS FROM €69LOTS OF GREAT ACCESSORIES HALF PRICE

Your FREE Local Newspaper4

Curves Lucan,Unit 14 Rosscourt Hall,

BalgaddyTel: 01 4577897Mob: 085 7501314

Curves Knocklyon,Woodstown S.C.Knocklyon,Dublin

Tel: 01 4938117

Curves Tallaght,Euro Haul Centre,Greenhills Road,

Dublin Tel: 01 4519220

St Michael’s House has teamed up with itslong-term corporate partner, KPMG, to develop aMulti-Sensory Stories pack for children withintellectual disabilities. The Multi Sensory Storiespack was officially launched by international bestselling author Cecilia Ahern at the organisation’sHead Office in Ballymun, Dublin. Cecilia alsocontributed by writing one of the stories.

The Multi-Sensory Stories pack is an imaginativesensory developmental aid for young children withintellectual disabilities and their families. The ideafor the pack came from two of the organisation’shome teachers, Mairead naughton and Marianolan, who work with young children withintellectual disabilities and their families. The aimof the pack is to improve children’s sensorydevelopment and awareness. each pack containsspecially written stories and a range of props thatbring the story to life by touch, smell, sight andsound.

John Leonard, Chairman of the Board of Directorsof St Michael’s House, said: “The Sensory Storiespack is a very important initiative and will greatlyenhance our developmental work with youngchildren. We are delighted with KPMG’ssponsorship of this project, which allows parentsto support their child’s development throughinteractive story telling.”

Staff in KPMG have worked on the project over thepast number of months, developing the logo andpackaging for the pack and writing a number of thesensory stories.

Karina Howley, Head of Corporate SocialResponsibility, KPMG, commented: “Our volunteersare really excited about being involved in thisproject because they know the positive impactthese stories can have on both the children withspecial needs and their families. This ‘book in abox’ concept has been a hands-on creative processthat our staff have enjoyed being part of.”

The Multi-Sensory Stories pack is being launched inconjunction with St Michael’s House annual “Bringa book, Buy a Book” fundraising campaign, whichruns from 1st – 10th March 2013. The campaignasks members of public to set up a ‘Bring a Book,Buy a Book’ stall in their work-place, school, clubor home. used books are donated to the stall forpurchase for a nominal fee of €2. 100% of fundsraised go directly to supporting St Michael’sHouse’s services for people with intellectualdisabilities and their families.

Tom O' Leary,with his mother Catherine at thelaunch of St Michael’s House Multi-Sensory Storiesfor Children with Intellectual Disabilities

st MICHael’s House MultI - seNsorystorIes for CHIlDreN wItH

INtelleCtual DIsabIlItIes lauNCHeDIllegal waste disposal operators are atpresent collecting waste illegally fromhouseholds in South Dublin County. Thepublic should be aware of the need todispose of their waste in a proper manneraccording to the law. All waste disposalfirms should have a waste collectionpermit.In 2013, the budget for cleansing and littermanagement for South Dublin County is€6.5 million. The money spent on this

activity reduces the funds available forother activities such as the provision ofplaygrounds, sporting and recreationalfacilities, libraries and other good thingsthat benefit all members of the community.Remember - You are responsible for yourwaste. Persons found disposing of wasteillegally or littering can receive a minimumfine of €150 or €3,000 in court. Illegalwaste operators will be monitored andprosecuted.

Checklist for good waste managementCheck your waste operators permituse recognised facilities – Civic Amenity,BallymountBe smart – Reduce, Reuse & RecycleOnly ever use a recognised waste serviceproviderReport any suspect services to SouthDublin County Council , [email protected] or telephone 01-4149000 ext 4239

Illegal waste DIsposal

Your FREE Local Newspaper 5

For a once-oF payment oF €289 or €15per week For 26 weeks receive all oF

these channels and more.

saorVIew approVeD 3


Fine Gael Local TDDerek Keating said thereduction in thenumber of day case andin-patient cancellationsat Tallaght Hospitalsince this Governmentcame to powerindicates the steadyprogress being made inturning our healthservices around anddelivering betterhealthcare for all of ourpeople especially thepeople of South dublinCounty. The progress beingmade at Tallaght

Hospital is beingmirrored in many of ourhospitals across thecountry with areduction in thenumber of cancellationsdown 9.5% nationally;from a total of 16,764cancellations in 2010 to15,167 last year. Whilethese figures show thatthere is still a mountainof work to be done indealing with theunacceptable delaysexperienced bypatients, they alsoshow that we aremoving steadily in the

right direction. “If we remain focusedon unblocking access toacute services, we cangain better control ofthe system and manageservices moreefficiently. Bydramatically improvingthe flow of patientsthrough our hospitalsand streamliningwaiting lists, includingreferrals from GPs, wecan cut down on thetime patients have towait to be treated andfurther reduce thecancellation of planned

procedures. “The reform of ourhealth service will nothappen overnight butwe should beencouraged by theprogress that is beingmade at Tallaghthospital and across thecountry. We have livedwith an inadequatehealth service for toolong. The peopledeserve better.

This Government’sprogramme of reformwill ensure that it isdelivered.”

FREE ADVICE FREE MEASURING FREE QUOTATIONS FREE FITTING

SERVING THE DUBLIN AREA WITH QUALITY BLINDS FOR OVER 20 YEARS

WIGODER’S BUILDING, LONG MILE ROAD, DUBLIN 12

TEL: 01 4605620 Visit our website onwww.squareblinds.ie

Why not transform your old tired looking Roller blinds for the New Year. We will recover yourexisting roller blinds with one of our new top quality fabrics. Choose from one of our best sellingshapes and finishesSimply bring your existing roller blinds into our newly renovated showrooms on the LongmileRoad. Choose your fabric & shape and your blinds will be ready within two days

Terms and conditions apply

FANTASTIC OFFER

up to 50% off

The national YouthCouncil of Ireland (nYCI)has welcomed theagreement on theproposed YouthGuarantee schemereached at the eu'sCouncil of employmentand Social AffairsMinisters.“The nYCI has been a

long time advocate of ayouth guarantee – whichwould ensure youngpeople on the liveregister for four monthsor more willautomatically bedirected intoemployment, educationor training,” said JamesDoorley, nYCI deputy

director.“The youth guaranteescheme is not apanacea, but it is animportant first step - itcould work in Ireland, ifa number of conditionsare satisfied,”continued Mr Doorley.“Firstly, it needs to beproperly resourced to

CaNCellatIoNs at tallagHtHospItal DowN by 71%

Polygreengarden ServiceS

Tel : 01 494 67 02Mob : 087 976 2869

- Overgrown gardens restored- Hedge and grass cutting- Shrub and tree planting- Light tree pruning- Spring/autumn tidy ups- All green garden waste - removed and recycled

youtH CouNCIl welCoMes eu agreeMeNt oN youtH guaraNteeensure we havesufficient high qualityeducation, training andjob experience places. “Secondly, theGovernment will have toprovide incentives toemployers to take onyoung people who haveparticipated in thescheme.“Thirdly, we needadditional measures to

support young peoplewho are long-termunemployed - who makeup almost half of theyoung people on the liveregister - to avoid theweaknesses identified inthe scheme in othercountries where italready exists, includingFinland and Sweden,”added Mr Doorley.number of young people

in Ireland at work downalmost 10%“CSO figures releasedyesterday indicate thatemployment increasedby 0.1% in 2012.However, while therewere increases inemployment in olderage groups, these wereoffset by the significantdecreases recorded inthe 20-24 (-12,800 or

-9.3%) and 25-34 (-8,900or -1.7%) age groups,”*said Mr Doorley.“So it is clear that weneed to address youthunemployment withpractical solutions,sooner rather than later.A positive first stepwould be the successfulimplementation of theyouth guarantee,”concluded Mr Doorley.


● gas boilers serviced from €49 wItH tHIs aD● oil boilers serviced from €59 wItH tHIs aD● New a rated Condensing boilers from €1499 with a● 5 year warranty● New Controls & timers also supplied and fitted● receipt & Cert with each Job

r.b boIler serVICes

CoNtaCt ray 087 237 8661for serVICe & repaIrs

CoNtaCt MICk 086 406 3030for boIler INstallatIoNs & repaIrs

www.rbboilerservices.ie

MarCH speCIal offer

Approved

Dublin South West TD,Seán Crowe, has said heis appalled at thegovernment’s decisionto discontinue theMobility AllowanceScheme and theMotorised TransportGrant Scheme.

Deputy Seán Crowesaid: “This is an out andout attack on peoplewith disabilities andwill directly lead totheir greater isolation. “The department hasbeen knowinglyoperating theseschemes illegallybecause theydiscriminate againstpeople who areexcluded from them onthe basis of an upperage limit and toonarrow qualificationcriteria.“In the case of theMobility Allowance theupper age limit wasfound by theOmbudsman to bediscriminatory in 2009.As the Ombudsman haspointed out in herstatement, expressingdisappointment at the

government’s action inending the schemes,they were operated inbreach of the equalStatus Act since 2000.“The MobilityAllowance wasmeans-tested and wasmostly paid to peoplewho live on a disabilityallowance of under€190 a week.“Axing these schemescompletely is not asolution and will hurtsome of the mostvulnerable people inIrish society.

“While they willcontinue for the nextfour months, theMinister has made itquite clear that theyare to end at thatpoint. A review is beingput in place, but thereis no certainty aboutwhat will emerge forthis group, who arevery dependent on thissmall, but hugelyimportant financialsupport."This decision has madean approximately 20%cut to the income ofpeople who are already

10 MultINatIoNal retaIlersHeapINg up to 40% eXtra Cost

oN IrIsH CustoMers

Fine Gael Senator for Dublin South east,Catherine noone, has denounced the pricingapproach of a number of multinational retailersdoing business in Ireland. Senator noone madeher comments following reports which showed10 multinational retailers have heaped up to40% extra cost onto their Irish customerscompared to what their uK customers pay. “There are huge price discrepancies betweenIreland and the uK that just cannot beaccounted for. It was bad enough when this washappening during the so called ŒCeltic Tiger‚era. In this day and age it is completelyunacceptable. The chains, which include TopShop, Zara andMonsoon, are all high-street names and all areclearly adding a premium to their Irish prices,making them far more expensive than their uKcounterparts. even taking into account logisticsand staffing costs, there is a huge premium - inmany cases up to 40% - being added on to theseitems relative to their sale price in the uK. It’sabsurd. Consumers deserve an answer on this and I’mworking to get one. It’s time somebody stood upfor ordinary customers and got a better answerthan ‘it’s just a little more expensive here’.

“I have written to all the retailers demanding anexplanation, and have written to the ConsumerAssociation of Ireland (CAI) to urge them toinvestigate this issue further. The CAI needs toput together a report to show that it’s workingon behalf of Irish consumers and to really putpressure on these retailers to explainthemselves.”

Crowe appalleD at tHe aXINg of traNsportsupports for tHe DIsableD

having financialdifficulties, not tomention the combinedadded costs that comewith having animpairment.

“The schemes are beingshut down at stroke of apen, but the mobilityneeds of disabled

people still need to bemet."The question MinisterReilly has to answer tothe 5000 people hisdecision effects is: howare people who arealready financiallystruggling supposed tomake up the shortfall,from his decision to

discontinue the MobilityAllowance Scheme andthe Motorised TransportGrant Scheme, whichcurrently meets someof their mobility needs?"The Minister needscome up with a betterexcuse than the stockreply that he had nochoice."


new local property taxestimates produced byDublin Chamber ofCommerce have found that54% of the property taxrevenue will come fromhomes in the Greater DublinArea. next week, valuationletters will be issued by theRevenue Commissioners as afirst step in the

process.“This plancompletely lacks regionalfairness, as those who livein urban areas paysignificantly more than ruralareas for the same type ofhouse,” said DublinChamber Chief executive,Gina Quin. “For example,the cost of a 3 bed familyhome in Dublin is 80% higher

tel: 087 246 7575 01 463 0813

psV licensed operator

Larger parties catered for

One Family(up to 6 people)

€40VW Caravelle / Chrysler Voyager

Two Family(up to 12 people)

€80Transit Minibus

9 PEOPLE€65Mums and Dads have a treat in store when they bring their children to the new excitingzoo playland in Leisureplex Tallaght.Children will love the bigger, better play centre. New slides, climbing wall and more.Zoo birthday parties are a speciality. Why not let the zoo crew make your childs day amemorable one. Leisureplex Tallaght is situated in the Village Green Centre.Ample free parking. New ! New ! Toddler mornings. Only €5.00.Visit Leisureplex today and you won't be disappointed.

New Zoo soft playlaND Now opeNIN leIsurepleX tallagHt

than a similar size house inthe Midlands. So, a family inDublin on the same incomeas someone in the Midlandswill have had to payconsiderably more for theirhome, and be taxed for theprivilege.”

Dublin Chamber’s estimatesof total property tax take bylocal authority were basedon data collected by Daftand the CSO as part of thecensus. The analysis showsthat County Dublin will raiseapproximately 42% of theproperty tax, while fundingto the local authorities inDublin from the localgovernment fund for 2013 isonly 18%.“A local property tax isabout funding localservices,” said Ms Quin.“But the figures show thatmoney raised locally inDublin will not be stayinglocally. The introduction ofa true system of localfunding for local serviceswould greatly enhancepublic awareness of thebenefits of the services theyreceive from localgovernment and of the costsof running them.”

oVer Half of property taX tobe paID IN greater DublIN


As part of the europeanWeek against Racism,South Dublin CountyCouncil’s SocialInclusion unit andSports Officer alongwith the F.A.I. Footballin the CommunityDevelopment Officers,Rugby Officer andCricket Officer will holda Sports blitz in

Clondalkin Sports &Leisure Centre onThursday 14th Marchand Thursday 21stMarch utilising sport asa medium to highlightthe anti-racism themeand to promote culturalintegration and socialinclusion through sport.

We are targeting 2nd

Years in secondaryschools in the countyarea and 6th class inprimary schools with anemphasis on fair playand equality.

One of the mainobjectives of theCouncil is to facilitateinitiatives to promoteintegration in the

county. This is one of thereasons why we haveorganised the sportsblitz. The day is abouthaving fun whilst beingconscious of the needto promote culturalintegration and socialinclusion through sport.It is about participationtogether!

Discrimination, racism,the intolerance ofothers is borne out ofignorance. Be it in ourworkplace, our schools,our homes, our clubs awillingness to learnabout others and tocommunicate withothers is the key to asuccessful, fair andopen society.

Sinn Féin DublinMid-Westrepresentative eoin ÓBroin has hit back atLabour TD RobertDowds claims thatchanges to the propertytax legislation are goodfor Council tenants. ÓBroin who wasresponding to claimsmade by Deputy Dowdsalso accused the LabourTD of breaking hispre-election promises.

Ó Broin said: “LabourTD Robert Dowdswelcomed a move byGovernment to impose

a property tax of €90 ayear on Council homes.He also welcomed thedeferral scheme forpeople on low incomes.“South Dublin CountyCouncil has yet todecide whether to passthis €90 charge on to itstenants or whether toabsorb the cost from itsexisting allocation offunds. In either caselocal people will suffer.“If Council tenants aremade to foot the billthey will be paying atax for a property theydon’t own. If theCouncil covers the cost

local services will sufferand hundreds ofthousands of euros willbe diverted fromCouncil budget to theRevenue. Deputy Dowdssuggestion that this isgood news is clearlyabsurd.“Deputy Dowds alsowelcomed the deferralscheme for families onlow incomes. Howeverwhat he did not makeclear is that there is anannual 4% penaltycharge for those whodefer. This means thatif you are unable to paythe property tax

because of low incomethe Government willcharge you anadditional interestpayment of 4% for everyyear you defer. TheGovernment iseffectively punishingpeople for being unableto pay.“In their 2011 generalelection manifestoLabour promised not tointroduce a propertytax before 2014. Theyalso promised that anytax introduced afterthat date would takeinto account issues suchas negative equity,

excessive stamp dutyand regionaldifferences in propertyvalues.

“Labour has broken allof these promises. Theyhave introduced the taxin 2013 and there areno exemptions forpeople in negativeequity, no reductionsfor those who paidlarge amounts of stampduty and no mechanismto take into accounthigher property pricesin Dublin.“Worse still Labourbelieve that people

Family owned & run

business over 30 years

open 6 days a week

clondalkin office 01 6217661

lucan showrooms01 6217639

lorraine086 8385014

email [email protected] [email protected] or visit our website www.candswindows.ie

we can take you to see our showrooms & drop you home by appointment

visit our large showrooms in lucan village (opposite ulster bank on the bridge)

marchsale now on

weir retail centre, 40 hills mill industrial estate, lucan village, co. dublin

get up to

35% offMust be fitted

in March

book your eNergy

effICIeNt HIgH

seCurIty wINDows

& Doors for

MarCHterMs & CoNDItIoNs apply

Ó broIN slaMs DowDs property taX ClaIMswho do not own theirown home, such ascouncil tenants or thosewho live in the privaterental sector, shouldalso pay this tax andthat those who areunable to pay should becharged penaltyinterest.“The Property Tax is

deeply unfair andshould be scrapped.Sinn Féin will be tablinga repeal Bill before thesummer and we will becalling on all TDsincluding Deputy Dowdsto keep their electionspromises and reversethe imposition of theunjust property tax.”

europeaN week agaINst raCIsM16th March – 24th March 2013


The Minister for SocialProtection, Joan BurtonT.D., has published detailsof how savings of €669million were achieved in2012 through a broad rangeof control measures acrossDepartment of SocialProtection schemes. Thesavings exceeded the targetoriginally set for the year of€645 million.

In total, more than 1 millionreviews of individual socialwelfare claims were carriedout, again exceeding target,which had been set at985,000. As a result of theDepartment's consistentlystrong performance in thisarea, Minister Burton hasnow set a target for €710million in control savings tobe achieved this year.

The Minister said: "Thesefigures demonstrate onceagain my Department's

commitment to stampingout welfare fraud andabuse. I have alwayschampioned the welfaresystem as a safety net forthose who need it most, andthat safety net is moreimportant than ever in thecurrent economic climate.However, it's preciselybecause the State's limitedresources should go to thosemost in need that we needto prevent fraud and abusein the system.

"The Programme forGovernment commits tomaintaining core welfarerates while taking azero-tolerance approachtowards welfare fraud.These are my twin aims toensure we protect thevulnerable and pursue thosewho try to defraud thesystem." The savings refer to moneythat would have been paidout by the Department but

for the control measuresimplemented. Controlmeasures include allactivities that theDepartment undertakes toensure that people arereceiving the correctamount of theirentitlement. They are alsoaimed at preventing anddetecting social welfarefraud. They range from mailshots whereby socialwelfare recipients confirmthat eligibility conditionscontinue to be met, directreviews of entitlement byinspectors and medicalre-certification orexamination to fraud andabuse investigations by theDepartment’s SpecialInvestigation unit.

The figures are contained inthe 2012 Progress Report onthe Department's FraudInitiative 2011-2013,published today by MinisterBurton. The key objective

soCIal welfare - €669 MIllIoN saVeDtHrougH CoNtrol Measures IN 2012

MINIster sets target of €710M IN CoNtrol saVINgs for 2013of the Fraud Initiative is toensure that the right personis paid the right amount ofmoney at the right time.

"This year, the Department'stotal budget amounts toalmost €20.3 billion and thepublic must haveconfidence that this moneyis being spentappropriately," MinisterBurton said. "Social welfarefraud underminesconfidence in the entiresystem and is unfair togenuine claimants and thetaxpayers who fund thesystem in the knowledgethat it is there for themwhen they need it."

The Progress Report sets outthe progress made in 2012across 10 key areas.Commenting on the report,the Minister pointed to theimportant work theDepartment is doing totackle difficult issues suchas “welfare tourism” andthe recovery ofoverpayments.

Since June 2012, socialwelfare inspectors have hadpowers to question peopleat ports and airports whomthey believe may beentering the country toclaim social welfarepayments fraudulently.With regard to the recoveryof overpayments, theMinister pointed out thatthe Department can nowrecover up to 15% of aperson's core personalwelfare payment in cases ofoverpayment whereaspreviously it had been aslittle as €2 a week. “This is

a very important development and means theDepartment can take thenecessary steps to recovermonies that have beenoverpaid in a timelymanner,” the Minister said.

The Progress Report gives anumber of examples ofprojects undertaken in 2012to combat fraud and abuse.

In addition to the ProgressReport, Minister Burton hasalso published two otherreports:

• Child Benefit - Fraudand Error Survey • Non-ComplianceAnalytics Pilot Project

Child Benefit:The Department undertakesfraud and error surveys toestablish baseline fraud anderror levels for socialwelfare schemes. Thesesurveys help to identify thelevel of risk associated withparticular schemes so thatcontrol measures can beenhanced to minimise thelevel of future risk.

The Child Benefit surveyfound that the net cost offraud and error in theclaims surveyed amountedto 0.5% of expenditure. Ofthis, all 0.5% related tosuspected fraud and 0% toerror. “I very muchwelcome the findings fromthe survey which highlightsthe fact that Child Benefit isa very well controlled andlow-risk scheme,” MinisterBurton said.

Non-Compliance Analytics

Project:In 2012, the Departmentworked with Accenture andSAS to explore the potentialof predictive risk analytics.Predictive analytics modelsallow for all data held by anorganisation, such as theDepartment, to be analysedto indicate and predictwhere higher incidences ofrisks of fraud and error mayoccur amongst certaincohorts of customers.

using a series of riskindicators, 1,000 jobseekercases were identified,which were theninvestigated to determinewhether they were in factnon-compliant. Theoutcomes were thenbenchmarked against theDepartment's existinginvestigations and detectionrates. The key findings ofthe pilot were that:

• using thejobseeker predictive model,the investigations ‘hit rate’increased from theDepartment’s baselinefigure of 4.5% to 6.3% - anuplift of 1.8 percentagepoints, which is significantin expenditure terms• Based on thefindings from the pilot,using Advanced Analytics todrive jobseekerinvestigations could delivera further €50 millionapproximately in jobseekerwelfare savings over threeyears

The Department will beconsidering the future useof risk analytics over thecoming months.

South Dublin County CouncilCommunity ServicesDepartment are organising aSt. Patrick’s Fest and aCommunity Informationevent in St. Finian’sCommunity Centre,newcastle. The event is acelebration of theimportant contribution localclubs / groups andvolunteerism makes to thehealth and well being of thenewcastle area. The eventalso provides the generalpublic with information onwhat’s on and where? in thenewcastle area.

newcastle St. Patrick’s Festhas a wonderful weekendprogramme of events whichare guaranteed toentertain. events include;information displays bylocal Clubs/Groups,performance by R.A.M.S.Male Choir, display by theAir Corps Museum,Mat-bowls demonstration,face painting, balloonsculptor, Soccer AcademyCoaching Skills by Peamountutd. F.C., football blitz bySt. Finian’s G.A.A. with St.Finian’s national School, apoker classic in aid of St.

Finian’s GAA Club and musicnights by the Gondola Pub.The Mayor Cathal King, inthe presence of MinisterFrances Fitzgerald and localDeputies and electedMembers will officiallylaunch this event at 6.30pmFriday 15th March 2013, inSt. Finian’s CommunityCentre. R.A.M.S Male choirwill open the evening with arendition of songs and adisplay by the Air CorpMuseum will conclude theevent. Refreshments willbe provided courtesy ofR.A.M.S.

NewCastle st. partICk’s fest


D24 Mini Bus HireAny Occasions

nighTS ouT d24 To ciTycenTre €5PP

airPorT SPecial €8.00 PP

● CONTRACT WORK ● AIRPORT TRANSFERS● SPORTS EVENTS ● SOCIALS ETC.

Mob: 087 2346792Tel: 01 4523141

email: [email protected]

(MiniMuM grouP required)

Labour T.D. for DublinMid-West, RobertDowds, has said thatnewly announcedmeasures will make iteasier to crack down ondisruptive tenants whointimidate neighbours.

“I have discussed theissue of anti-socialbehaviour with MinisterJan O’Sullivan onseveral occasions, and Iam delighted that shehas agreed to bring inthese importantchanges. “neighbours of badtenants will no longerhave to bringcomplaints individuallyto the PrivateResidential TenanciesBoard (PRTB). now, agroup of neighbours orresidents associationswill be able to takecollective action andwork together. There

can be a real problemwith making complaintsto the PRTB, asneighbours can be veryafraid or intimidated touse their own names.Fear of those causingthe trouble can be veryreal. This change willhelp tackle that. "A greater responsibilitywill be placed onlandlords to deal withthe problem.Individuals orassociations will be ableto approach landlordsdirectly about theproblem, instead of theunruly tenant. Thisagain means that acertain degree ofintimidation can beavoided. All complaintsabout anti-social ordisruptive behaviourwill now be lodged withthe Private ResidentialTenancy Board, afterjust one attempt to

solve the problemdirectly with landlords.This means thatlandlords will have totake action againsttroublesome tenantsand that action will bequicker."

"It is important to stressthat the majority oflandlords and tenantscause no problemswhatsoever and aregood neighbours.Problems arise wherebad or absenteelandlords have badtenants. I am delightedto see thestrengthening of thelaw in this area.Anti-social behaviour isa very real and seriousissue. I have met withmany constituents overthe past couple of yearswho have experiencedextremely distressinganti-social behaviour in

for a free No oblIgatIoN QuotatIoNrINg DeNNIs at 087 9187961 or 01 4518599

Don’t waste any more money on paintingthe outside of your home!

GET IT DRYDASHED BY

THE EXPERTS

wHy use DeNNIs tHe DasHer?

loVer 25 years DasHINg IN soutH DublINlNo Mess, No fuss, Just a gooD CleaN Joblall Houses fINIsHeD IN two Dayslall work guaraNteeDlregIstereD CoNtraCtor

EXTRA SPECIAL RATES FOR 2 OR MORE

ADJOINTING HOUSES BOOKED AT THE SAME TIME

DeNNIs tHe DasHer

tHe Dry DasHINg

speCIalIst

"geNeratIoN VaNDalIsM"Clondalkin People before Profit Councillor GinoKenny has hit out today about the cuts to YouthServices across Dublin. Between seven to tenpercent has been cut from youth servicesbudgets which will into effect immediately. TheRonanstown Youth Service which is based inneilstown and caters for hundreds of youngpeople from the locality will face a sevenpercent cut which will be implementedimmediately. The 7% cut could mean anythingfrom 50,000 to 70,000 in financial terms to theservice for the year. This is already on top ofbudgetary cutbacks in the last two budgetswhich has had a detrimental effect on theservices that the youth service can provide andutilise.Speaking about the cuts Cllr Kenny said:“This is tantamount to death by a thousand cuts.These cuts to essential services in working classcommunities particularly at this time whenpeople need them the most is short sighted atthe least and at the most generation vandalism.The knock on effect to the fabric ofcommunities and society will not only haveeffect now but will have far worse consequencesin the future. Services such as Ronanstown YouthService and a plethora of others youth servicesaround Dublin that are facing this new round ofcuts are struggling as it is. This goes back to theeconomical narrative in which we live in thatthe people who didn’t start this financial crisisare the ones to pay for it. not investing in ouryouth today is failing in our youth tomorrow.Cuts like this effect everybody in the communityin which they serve, whether you use theseservices or not. We need to show thegovernment that communities will resist thesecuts.”

New tools to taCkle INtIMIDatIoNaND aNtI-soCIal beHaVIour welCoMe

their area." "The changes are due tobe brought into law aspart of the ResidentialTenancies Act 2012,which is currently going

through the Dail. I lookforward to workingfurther with MinisterO'Sullivan on this Billand to seeing its speedyenactment."

tallagHt sports CoMpleXbalrothery, tallaght ph. 4515882 / 4515105

Easter Camp

● fun ● games ● swimming every Day

aprIl 2ND - 5tH9.00aM - 2.30pMfor ages 4 to 14

€69 per CHIlD

Cubs4 - 6

lIoNs7 - 9

bears10 - 14

to aDVertIse IN aNy of our publICatIoNs tel: 01 451 3822


breathnach’s bargainsmassive stock clearance sale!!

ELECTRICPIE MAKERWAS €20

NOW €8

NICER DICERAS SEEN ON TVWAS €10

NOW €5

DOUGHNUTMAKERWAS €20

NOW €10

TWIN SANDWICHMAKER ‘TOASTIE’

ONLY€6.99

STAINLESS STEELCOFFEE POTWAS €15

NOW €6.99

THERMAL TEAPOT

WAS €20

NOW €6.00

HALOGEN HEATER1/2 PRICEWAS €20

NOW €10.00

STAINLESS STEELDOME KETTLEWAS €30

NOW €15.99


breathnach’s bargainsmassive stock clearance sale!!

st dominic’s shopping centremillbrook lawnstallaghtdublin 24Terms & Conditions Apply. All special offers subject to availability. See instore for details (Pictures used in this ad are for illustration only)

TOP BRAND DELUXEDART BOARDWAS €20

NOW €10.00

HOT FOOTMASSAGERWAS €30

NOW €15.00

4 SLICE TOASTERWAS €24

NOW €12.00

1400 WATTSTEAM IRONWAS €12

NOW €5.00

TOMMEE TIPPERFEEDING SETWAS €20

NOW €5.00

AS SEEN ON TVEAZEECOOK MICROWAVE

COOK POT SET

WAS €12.99NOW €5.00

LUXURY PILLOWONLY

€3.00 FOR 2

ELECTRIC BLANKETSLESS THAN 1/2 PRICE

SINGLE ONLY €8DOUBLE ONLY €10KING SIZE ONLY €12


to aDVertIse IN aNy of our publICatIoNstel: 01 451 3822

or VIsIt our websIte oNwww.newsgroup.ie

support your loCal bINgo HallXX

WHITESTOWN WAY, TALLAGHT, DUBLIN 24 TEL: 01 4598946

€20,000 payoutgooD frIDay 29tH MarCH 2013

All second level schools inDublin, Meath and Kildarewill have high speed(100Mbps) broadbandinstalled during 2013, theMinister forCommunications, energy &natural Resources, PatRabbitte T.D. and theMinister for education andSkills, Ruairí Quinn T.D.haveannounced last week.This is the second stage of anational roll-out to allsecond-level schools. The2012 phase of the projectsaw broadband installed inall post-primary schools in14 western and midlandscounties, covering 202schools. This built upon apilot project involving 78schools nationally, wherethe use of broadband hasbeen shown to haveimproved both teaching andlearning.

The announcement details afurther 216 schools to beconnected in Dublin, Meathand Kildare by September2013, with all remaining 250schools to be connected in2014.

Speaking at PresentationSecondary School inWarrenmount, Dublin,Minister Rabbitte said “I amvery pleased that myDepartment is investing inindustrial strength, futureproofed connectivity forthese schools. By bringing100Mbps uncontendedconnectivity directly to thepremises many students willnow have vastly enhancedaccess to new and innovateeducational tools. This is acompletely differentstandard of connection todomestic broadband andwill allow multipleapplications to be accessedby students right across theschool.

“This is an importantinvestment in Ireland’scompetitiveness. From nowon these schools will mirrorthe workplaces oftomorrow. These studentswill therefore be muchbetter prepared for thedigital economy when theyseek work.”

Commenting on the

announcement, MinisterQuinn said “ThisGovernment is committedto delivering on thecommitment in theProgramme for Governmentto incorporate theintegration of ICT/ digitaltechnology in teaching andlearning across thecurriculum, and to invest inbroadband development toensure schools have accessto modern high-speednetworks. The use of ICT/digital technology will beone of the key skills in thenew Junior Cycle, and it willbe enhanced through theavailability of a shortcourse, currently beingdeveloped by the nCCA,that will deal withprogramming / coding forjunior cycle students fromSeptember 2014. In orderto facilitate students indeveloping ICT skills accessto fast reliable broadband isessential.

The roll out of 100Mbps toall post primary schools willalso facilitate schools todevelop e-portfolios to

augment the school-workcomponent of the newJunior Cycle.”

Both Ministers were agreedthat despite Ireland’scurrent economicdifficulties, this significantinvestment in driving ourschools forward into thedigital age is money wellspent. According to MinisterQuinn, “the internet isproviding learners with thepossibility of learning at anytime and in any place.Accessing education throughmixed media delivers aricher educationalexperience. Applyingtechnology in the right waycan make education not justmore engaging – but moreappealing – so the students

and teachers get more fromit.”

Minister Rabbitte concludedby referencing theimportant job creationpossibilities. “It is a keyinvestment in futureemployment andemployability as it feedsinto the development of amore ICT literateworkforce. The europeanCommission estimates thatthere will be up to 1 millionunfilled vacancies in the ICTarea within europe, by2015. At a conference inBrussels today, 'Filling thegaps: e-Skills and educationfor Digital Jobs', policymakers, industry andeducation specialists arediscussing this challenge.

Clearly, ICT literacy atsecond level is an importantelement of the widerobjective of addressingeurope’s ICT skills deficit”.

The Department ofCommunications, energyand natural Resources(DCenR) is funding all of thecapital costs of this project,estimated to beapproximately €11m, aswell as contributing some€10m in current costs forthe years 2012 to 2015. TheDepartment of education &Skills (DeS) will fund theremaining current costs(estimated to be some €20mup to 2015). DeS will alsofund the on-going costs onan annual basis into thefuture.

216 sCHools to reCeIVe 100 Mbps (busINessClass serVICe) broaDbaND aCCess

€5,000under one roof

tallaght

optional link early€500

link flyer€1,300


tralee


tallaght

sIngle book + jackpots €30 double book + jackpots €35

1 100 300 100 3002 100 300 100 3003 100 300 100 3004 100 300 100 3005 100 500 100 5006 100 500 100 5007 100 1,000 100 1,000

rIVaInhouse

traleeInhouse last 3 pages lINkeD

200 500 1,000200 500 2,000200 500 5,000

1 JaCkpot 100 2002 JaCkpots 100 2003 JaCkpots 100 100 300


We don’t have to tell you the basics of weightloss: burn more calories than you consume.But you probably know from experience thatthis is not always easy. With a whole newfat-binding concept, however, you are likelyto see a difference.

Consumers have been surprisingly impressedwith a new type of fat binder that capturesan impressive amount of fat in your digestivesystem and removes the fat so it doesn’t getabsorbed by the body.

With one single tablet, you can bind theequivalent of 20 grams of fat (40 times theweight of the tablet). That adds up to 180calories or the same as 15 minutes on thetreadmill. In one month you can rid your bodyof approximately 7.7 pounds of fat that wouldotherwise have represented a huge calorieburden. Imagine what that can do for you interms of your figure.

HOw ITwORkSIt enters your digestive system, takes out alarge amount of the fat inside, and leaveswithout a trace. It does not have anyphysiological effects on the body.

1. When the tablet enters the stomach it1. dissolves immediately, releasing the active1. ingredient

2. The fat binder attaches to fat in the2. stomach and forms an insoluble “matrix”

3. The bound fat moves through the intestinal3. tract and is excreted naturally without any3. side effects

4. The less fat you have in your digestion, the4. less is absorbed and stored in the body.

You may have tried and failed to lose weightnumerous times, but you should’nt give up beforeyou’ve tried the new second generation of supereffective fat binders.

SAY GOODBYETO HUNGERPANGSFat is a calorie burden. It contains morecalories than anything else. One gram of fatcontains about nine calories so if you want tolose weight, reducing your fat intake - oruptake - is definitely a good place to start.The good thing about this second-generationfat binder is that it attaches itself to fat andforms an intelligent “gel matrix” that cannotbe absorbed by the body. This slows down therate at which food leaves the stomach andreduces cravings. This gives us a feeling ofbeing full for much longer.This effect could in turn have a substantialimpact on total food intake per day. Anotherbeneficial effect is that the fat binder lowerslevels of unhealthy blood fats like LDLcholesterol, which is useful for reducing therisk of artery clogging

tHIs tIMe youwIll loseweIgHt

wItH tHe New 2ND geNeratIoNfat bINDer you CaN:

• lower your food cravings• lose weight• reduce bad cholesterol• surpress your appetite


“from start to finish, we take care of everything”

oVer 30 years

eXperIeNCe

Pictured at the launch of the Digital Computer Games Development Competition, aninternational computer games development competition for third-level students, were DrStephen Brennan, Chief Strategy Officer with the Digital Hub, and Maura Stanford akaSonic the Hedgehog, a student at Ballyfermot College of Further education.Dare to be Digital is coordinated in Ireland by the Digital Hub Development Agency andsupported by the north-South Cooperation unit at the Department of education and Skills.The closing date for the Irish leg of the competition is 9th April 2013. The winning teamwill be chosen by a judging panel made up of industry insiders to represent Ireland at theinternational competition later this year. The successful team will spend nine weeks withother national teams at Abertay university in Scotland during summer 2013, developingtheir prototype video games. Further information is available at www.thedigitalhub.comand www.daretobedigital.com. (Pic Maxwell's)

DIgItal Hub lauNCHes Dare to be DIgItalCoMputer gaMes DeVelopMeNt CoMpetItIoNOver 300 guests gathered at

The Shelbourne hotel tocelebrate InternationalWomen’s Day at the annualfundraising lunch in aid ofTallaght-based educationand training centre, AnCosán. Referring to the importanceof education andempowerment of Women,former Minister LizO’Donnell said: “A centralplank of our nationalrecovery should be greaterparticipation of women inleadership positions inpolitics and business. Toooften women are absentfrom decision making at the

highest level. There are just25 women (15%) in Daileireann ranking 89th in aleague of 113 countries forfemale participation. Whileat corporate board level,the diversity picture isequally poor. Irelandlanguishes at the bottom ofthe eu list between Polandand Bulgaria”.

Referring to thetransformative educationalwork of An Cosán, MsO’Donnell said “I hope thatarising out of the lifealtering work of An Cosán atcommunity level, somegraduates will be

empowered to becomepolitically involved andeven consider crossing thebridge from communityactivism into electedpolitics”.

An Cosán is a unique centrefor lifelong learning that formore than 25 years hasprovided second-chanceeducation and trainingopportunities for thousandsof women living in WestTallaght. The organisationalso runs a high qualitychildcare facility whichenables many parents toavail of its education andtraining services.

forMer MINIster DelIVers key Note speeCH at aNCosáN aNNual INterNatIoNal woMeN’s Day luNCHeoN

Commenting on the publication of HSe 2013Service Plans, Sinn Féin healthspokesperson Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin TDsaid: "no amount of spin from the HSe inthese regional plans can hide the fact thatthey implement the Fine Gael/LabourBudget 2013 and the HSe's national ServicePlan 2013 which imposes €721 million incuts to our public health services.

"An initial reading of the HSe Service Plan,for example, shows a staff reduction of 750(whole time equivalents WTes) and 55fewer public nursing home beds for olderpeople.

"It shows that the HSe in the region is owed€15.75 million by health insurers for the useof beds in public hospitals by privatepatients. "The HSe claims that home help hours thatwere cut in the last quarter of 2012 havebeen reversed but there is no evidence tosupport this and people who lost hours havenot had them returned. A real reversalwould see these hours restored in 2013 andthis is what should happen."There are also reductions for children andfamily services and disability services andcloser scrutiny of these plans will beneeded to see the reality behind the spin."

Hse spIN CaNNot HIDe Cuts


Q. MY CHILD wAS QUITE SICkRECENTLY AND I GOT A CALL wHILE IwAS AT wORk. I ASkED IF I COULDLEAVE TO PICk MY CHILD UP FROM THECRECHE, BUT I wAS TOLD I wOULD HAVETO wAIT UNTIL LUNCHTIME. SHOULD IHAVE BEEN ENTITLED TO LEAVE ANDSTAY OUT? AS IT HAPPENED, I HAD TOMAkE ExPENSIVE ARRANGEMENTS FOR ACHILDMINDER TO STAY IN THE HOUSEwITH MY CHILD FOR TwO DAYS.

A. In certain cases where there isan emergency, you may be entitled toleave under the Parental Leave Act 1998.This relief is only available in restrictedemergency circumstances and for amaximum of 3 days in twelve months, orfive days in thirty-six months. This canonly be availed of when your child isactually ill. Clearly it should be usedstrictly in emergencies and if you have a

Human Resources Manager at work Iwould point this out to them for futurereference.

Q. I HAVE A VERY GOOD wORkRECORD AND IN MY THREE YEARS OFEMPLOYMENT I HAVE NEVER BEEN OUTSICk. HOwEVER, I CONTRACTED A VERYBAD DOSE OF FLU RECENTLY AND wASOUT OF wORk FOR FOUR OR FIVE DAYS.MY PAYDAY HAS NOT YET COME SO I DONOT kNOw IF I wILL BE PAID BUT I AMwONDERING wHETHER OR NOT MYEMPLOYER HAS TO PAY ME,PARTICULARLY CONSIDERING MY GOODwORk RECORD.

A. under Irish Law there is noStatutory entitlement to be paid sickleave. Paid sick leave should be dealtwith in your Statement of employmentTerms provided under the Terms ofemployment Information Act in yourContract of employment. If you are notentitled to be paid sick leave in yourContract, you may have to apply forIllness Benefit from the Department ofSocial and Family Affairs. unfortunately,the fact that you have a good workrecord does not make any difference.Paid sick leave without a Contract to thecontrary is strictly at the discretion ofyour employer. You do of course have alegal obligation to provide a Certificatefrom your Doctor if you are absent inexcess of two days, but I assume that youdid this. Our advice is to speak to theHuman Resources Department, if there isone, to clarify the situation. This isworthwhile as most employers have somediscretion in these matters and are mostlikely to apply this discretion for thebenefit of an employee who has alreadyshown an excellent work record.

Q. I SAw AN ADVERTISEMENT FORA JOB RECENTLY wHICH wOULD SUITME PERFECTLY BUT IT IS STATED TO BEFOR “NON-SMOkERS ONLY”. IS THISLEGAL NOw THAT SMOkING IN THEwORkPLACE HAS BEEN BANNEDANYwAY?

The Legal Column

romaine Scally is the principal in the firm of roMaine Scally and coMPany SoliciTorSMain Street Tallaght, dublin 24 Tel 4599506 FaX 4599510 email: [email protected]

by Romaine Scally

In this edition of the paper, RomaineScally, Principal in the Firm of RomaineScally and Co, Solicitors, answers morereaders queries. This month they includesome topical questions in relation toemployment. As always please send yourqueries to Romaine Scally, Solicitors,Main Street, Tallaght Village, Dublin 24.Telephone 4599506, Email –[email protected].

A. The employment equalityActs 1998-2007 ('the eeA') does notexpressly prohibit discriminationagainst smokers. However, the eeAdo prohibit discrimination on thegrounds of a disability, which iswidely defined, and addiction haspreviously been held to be adisability. It has to be said however,that the question as to whetheraddiction to nicotine is a disabilityhas not been decided. It is possiblethat a smoker may claim that theirsmoking is an addiction which qualifies as adisability under the eeA, andtherefore any such advertisementcould potentially breach the eeA.This means that an employer wouldneed to carefully consider this riskbefore advertising for non-smokersonly. It should be considered whetherthe concern (presumably the odour ofcigarettes) could be addressed inother ways. For example, rather thanexcluding smokers from applying forthe position, during the applicationand selection process, it may bepreferable to set out the workplacerules concerning smoking, thenecessary appearance/conduct formeeting members of the public (ifrelevant) and question whether or notthe individual could meet those rules.I would strongly advise you to applyfor the job anyway and during theinterview, ask the employer aboutthose workplace rules and reassurethem if possible that you would haveno difficulty abiding by those rules.

Q. I NOw wISH TO REVERT TOMY MAIDEN NAME AND I AMwONDERING AS TO THE PROCEDUREINVOLVED. COULD YOU PLEASEADVISE ME? ALSO, CAN I CHANGE MYCHILDREN’S NAMES BACk TO MYMAIDEN NAME? MY SON IS NINETEENYEARS OF AGE AND MY DAUGHTER IS14 YEARS OLD. I wOULDAPPRECIATE wHATEVER ADVICE YOUCAN GIVE.

A. Changing your name to that ofyour husband on marriage, is a matter ofform and not law. There is no legalobligation whatsoever to change yourname to that of your husband’s surnameon marriage. equally therefore, if youhave been using your married name onvarious documents, it is a very easymatter to change back to your maidenname. You simply write to your variousBanks, etc. and if necessary, produce yourBirth Certificate to prove your identity. Autility Bill may also be required to proveyour current address.

With regard to your children, you cannotchange a child’s name without theconsent of both parents, unless one of theparents is not a Guardian, in which casehis or her consent is not required.However, your nineteen year old son isalready an adult in the eyes of the law andmust make the decision himself to changehis name back to your maiden name. Inthe case of your daughter, who wasregistered at birth with her father’s name,you will require a document known as aDeed Poll to be executed to change hersurname back to your maiden name. Thiscan be done relatively simply at nominalcosts and is enrolled in the High Court asproof of a ‘name change’. This is onlyrequired for young people and adultswhose Birth Certificates are not consistentwith the name they wish to use into thefuture. Technically we can all change ourname to almost any name we wish bymeans of a Deed Poll.

roMaine Scally & co,SoliciTorSoperate a

FREE LEGAL ADVICE CLINICon the second Wednesday of every monthfrom 2.00pm until 6.00pm at their officesin Main Street, Tallaght, Dublin 24.NEXT CLINIC: WED. 13TH MARCH.No Appointment is necessary.We look forward to answering your legalqueries in person.

A group of Labour TDs and Senators havepublished the employment equality(Amendment) (no. 2) Bill 2013, which willput an end to the situation where staff ineducational or medical institutions can bediscriminated against for having childrenoutside marriage, being divorced, or forbeing lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender(LGBT). The Bill will be introduced underPrivate Members’ Business in the Seanad bythe Labour group of Senators on WednesdayMarch 13th 2013.

Speaking at the publication of the Bill,Deputy Ó Ríordáin said: “As a teacher andformer principal this is an issue I feel

passionate about. I worked with colleagueswho could have lost their jobs simply forbeing gay or not being married. Thesepeople were my friends and some of thebest teachers I ever knew. I am glad the lawwill finally protect these people and catchup on public opinion.”

Deputy Lyons added: “I attended the launchof the Stand up! campaign yesterdayevening, which encourages young people tostand up to homophobic and transphobicbullying in schools. The exact sameprinciples should apply to teachers in ourschools, whose identity or personal livesshould never be used against them in a work

context.”Adding her comments, Deputy Conwaystated: “It's timely that we're launching thisBill in the same week as InternationalWomen's Day, as the Labour Party iscommitted to seeking an end to genderdiscrimination. no women or girl should bediscriminated against in her workplace orschool because of her gender. Our Bill willmake sure that women who are singleparents, are LGBT, or are separated ordivorced, will no longer fear for their jobs.”

Deputy Hannigan added: “The climate offear which the original employment equalityAct has created, is one which this Bill will

bring to an end. I’m proud to have workedwith my Labour colleagues on this Bill,which I believe will bring us a step closer tofull equality”Senator Bacik, who will propose the Bill inthe Seanad next Wednesday said: “'I amdelighted that at last we will see legislationthat will effectively address the legacy ofthe eileen Flynn case, and that will end thecontinuance of the legislative provision thatenables discrimination against and evendismissal of teachers or health workers whoare seen in some way as undermining thereligious ethos of their institutions. I lookforward to the acceptance of this Bill bySeanad Éireann next week.”

labour MeMbers publIsH bIll to preVeNtDIsCrIMINatIoN of teaCHers


wINDOw-MAN, PADDY wINSTON “I have been in the window trade since I left school at the age of 15. and now, at the age of 51, I have manyyears and lots of experience in the design, manufacture and fitting of aluminium and uPVC windows, doors and conservatories.

Over the years, through the boom, I noticed that, even though there was plenty of money around for the purchase of houses, builders stillmanaged to fit the cheapest, most unreliable windows and doors they could possibly get there hands on, most of these are now giving

terrible trouble with broken handles, hinges, locks etc. etc.. So, I decided to set up this service, to get your windows and doors to performin the manner they were designed and that’s to keep the heat in and the cold out...

IF YOU ARE HAVING PROBLEMS wITH YOUR wINDOwS OR DOORS, GIVE ME A CALL...CHEERS...PADDY”

Pictured with Sinn Féinrepresentative eoin Ó Broinare traders from theClondalkin Mill Centre atthe launch a postercampaign calling for Dunloeewart to reduce the rents atthe centre. The postercampaign comes after ÓBroin met Dunloe ewartDirector noel Murray.

Ó Broin said:“The situationat the Clondalkin MillCentre is reaching a criticalpoint for some traders. IfDunloe ewart do not actsoon to reduce the rents Ihave no doubt thatbusinesses will close andjobs will be lost.

“The poster campaign aimsto make the communityhere in Clondalkin aware ofthe problem. We will bedistributing thousands ofposters and leaflets in thecoming weeks and will beurging local people to getinvolved and help keep thetraders and jobs in the Mill.“Last week I met Dunloeewart Director noel Murray.I outlined to him mygrowing concern for thefuture of individualbusinesses and the MillCentre as a whole. I toldhim that it was no longeracceptable for his companyto be charging traders boomtime rents.

“At the meeting noelMurray indicated thatDunloe ewart had taken adecision to put rentreductions on the table atmeetings with individualtraders. However to date norent reductions for longstanding traders have beenimplemented.

“Given the high levels ofunemployment inClondalkin every single jobmust be saved. And thatmeans that every singlestruggling business must beassisted. Reducing rents toreflect the current marketand trading conditions iscrucial.”

saVe tHe MIll poster CaMpaIgN lauNCHeD


hoMebaSed buSineSSoPPorTuniTy

Part Time & Full Time Hours AvailableWe are looking for self motivated,

honest hard working people.We offer: ● Extra income ● Flexible

hours ● Full training & supportFor an aPPoinTMenT PleaSe

call 0877945015

recruiTing now!!!!

Pictured are a group of women from Killinarden who took part in the 10ksponsored walk for the Laura Lynn House Irish Children's Hospice. The walktook place in Tymon Park on Sunday 24th February. The group said theyfought the elements, hungry ducks and swans! Flying Footballs! DeterminedRunners and walkers and a couple of hangovers! Well done to all who tookpart in the fund-raising walk for this very deserving charity.

10k spoNsoreD walkfor laura lyNN House

The Minister for SocialProtection, Ms JoanBurton TD, has invitedexpressions of interestfrom suitably qualifiedand experiencedpersons for twopositions on the Boardof the CitizensInformation Board. Theappointment will be fora period not exceedingfive years.

The CitizensInformation Boardoperates under theaegis of theDepartment of SocialProtection and isresponsible forsupporting the provisionof information, adviceand advocacy on a widerange of social servicesand for the MoneyAdvice and BudgetingService.

The Board of theCitizens InformationBoard is charged withproviding the Ministerfor Social Protectionwith advice,information andassistance in relation to

the development ofsocial policy, as well asto develop andimplement services toaddress needsidentified by theMinister.

Full details of the Boardand the requirementsfor the positions areavailable onwww.welfare.ie . Allappointments will bemade in accordancewith the legislationgoverning appointmentsto each body. The Codeof Practice for theGovernance of StateBodies includes adescription of the rolesand responsibilities ofDirectors of StateBodies.

In submitting anexpression of interest,a person should statetheir relevantexperience andqualifications, skills andcompetencies. Inconsideringapplications, dueregard will be given toGovernment policy on

MINIster burtoN INVItes eXpressIoNs of INterestfor appoINtMeNt to tHe CItIZeNs INforMatIoN boarD

gender balance onState Boards. TheMinister may appointpersons from outsidethe expressions ofinterest received inresponse to this

invitation.Interested partiesshould submit anapplication viawww.publicjobs.ietogether with aCurriculum Vitae and

cover letter by 22March 2013. Further information onthe application processis available on thewebsitewww.welfare.ie


eurolInk... what’s happenIngIn the european parlIament

Dublin innovators bask inBrussels limelight

Twelve Dublin-basedemployers and researchexperts enjoyedcentre-stage this week at aweek-long exhibition inBrussels showcasing thecapital as a “smart,connected and sustainable”city.Scientists from uCD, DCu,DIT and Trinity College wereamong those exhibitingalongside representativesfrom Intel, InnovationDublin and The Green Way.The Green Way is acollaborative group ofindustry, academicinstitutions andpublic/semi-state players inthe Dublin region, set up tocreate jobs in “cleantechnologies”.The exhibition, organised byDublin Labour MeP emerCostello, was well-placed tocatch passing trade from themajor international science

conference taking place atthe same time in theeuropean Parliament as partof Ireland's eu presidency.Speaking from Brussels, MsCostello said her idea was toencourage networkingbetween Irish innovatorsand like-minded eupartners.“It's been a reallyinteractive exhibition,portraying Dublin as acreative, outward andforward-looking city. Itshows how the capital iscapable of attracting muchmore inward investment andis also an attractive placefor people to move to andsettle,” she added.It's hoped that theexhibition will lead to thedevelopment ofcollaborative projects forwhich funding can beleveraged under the eu'sHorizon 2020 framework.

MEPs over the moon tomeet astronauts

Two pioneering nASAastronauts were among thehigh-profile speakers at thebiggest ever eu scienceconference at the europeanParliament this week. BuzzAldrin, the second man everto walk on the moon, andMae Jemison, the first blackwoman in space, causedpalpable excitement in thecrowd when they took to thepodium to launch thefive-day event.The conference broughttogether scientists,policy-makers and industryreps from 100 countries withthe goal of placing euresearch at the centre ofthe international responseto global challenges,particularly in energy andhealth.Mr Aldrin summed up theethos of the conferencewhen he told the audience“the only limit to what wecan achieve lies in the limitsof our imagination.”Ms Jemison spoke of the

importance of bypassinganother limit to ourimagination, namely thegender gap in science. “Weneed to make a consciouseffort to reflect themake-up of the planet in thesciences...it should take nomore than 20 years,” shesaid, referencingInternational Women's Dayon 8th March.Fine Gael MeP Sean Kelly,who helped organised theconference on behalf of theIrish eu presidency, said Irishcompanies and universitiesstood to gain substantiallyfrom the conference.“We're trying to get a leastone billion euro worth ofprojects led by Irelandunder Horizon 2020. That's aminimum. The fact thatalmost every third-levelinstitution in the countrycame out to this conferenceshows that they knew thebenefit of being here;networking and seekingfunding opportunities to getresearch projects off theground,” said Mr Kelly.Mr Aldrin was bemused toget a gift of greatsignificance to his host,when the Munster MePpresented him with KerryGAA jersey.

Youth Guarantee must bemanaged locally

The much-vaunted YouthGuarantee Scheme agreedby eu ministers last weekcould be the jewel in thecrown of Ireland's eupresidency – if it is enforcedin all member states.The initiative makes acommitment to all thoseunder 25 who areunemployed for four monthsthat they will be offered a

job, an apprenticeship,further education ortraining. Six billion eurofrom the eu budget hasalready been set aside totackle youth unemploymentin regions with jobless ratesof around 25 per cent, butalready there have beenwarnings that the schememust be put in place swiftly.Fianna Fail MeP LiamAylward cautioned that theinitiative must be “managedlocally, at member statelevel – without delays due tored tape and administrativeburdens”.“It's up to each governmentto run this schemeeffectively, establishingstrong partnerships withschools and universities,employment services, youthsupport services and careerguidance counsellors, toensure early interventionand action to help youngpeople into the jobmarket,” said Mr Aylward.european CommissionPresident, Jose ManuelBarosso, also told Taoiseachenda Kenny last week thathe's been pushing the“urgent need” to confrontyouth unemployment to thetop of europe's politicalagenda. “Too many youngeuropeans are asking if theywill ever find a job or havethe same quality of life astheir parents. They needanswers from us,” he said.

MEP blasts governmentover mobility cuts

Irish MeP Marian Harkin hitout at the government thisweek over its decision toaxe the current mobilityallowances before comingup with any alternativereplacement. The

Independent MeP said shewas “horrified” to learn ofthe move, days after shehad called on thegovernment to ratify the unConvention for Persons withDisability.“The un Convention statesthat people with disabilitiesshould be able to live theirlives with dignity andindependence, that they'renot discriminated againstand that they have access tothe services they need. Thegovernment's cut to mobilityallowances is inhumane – itmeans people who are in awheelchair can no longerlook forward to getting outof their houses every nowand then,” said Ms Harkin.Taoiseach enda Kenny hassaid that the allocation ofover ten million euro for thisyear's mobility allowanceand the motorised transportgrants will be ring-fencedfor a new scheme. But MsHarkin claimed that thegovernment should havedevised another schemebefore getting rid of thecurrent funding supports.“I know there is a legal issuewith the current mobilityallowance and that thegovernment are incontravention of the equalStatus Act because the grantshould be payable to peopleover 65, and up to now it'sonly been available to thoseunder 65. But if thegovernment were reallyconcerned about peoplewith disabilities and the fearthey have of being prisonersin their own home, theyshould have ensured thatthose recipients of thescheme could continuegetting access to it, even ithad to be reduced,” shesaid.

MIRACLE PRAYER Dear Heart of Jesus inthe past I have asked for many favours.This time I ask you for a very special one.Take it, dear Heart of Jesus, and place itwithin your own broken heart where yourFather sees it. Then in His merciful eyes itwill become your favour and not mine.Amen. Say this prayer for three days.Promise publication and favour will begranted no matter how impossible. neverknown to fail. k.M.

THANkS TO THE HOLY SPIRIT. Holy Spirit,You who solve all problems, light all roadsso that I can attain my goal. You who giveme the Divine gift to forgive and forgetand forget all evil against me and that inall instances in my life you are with me.I want to thank You and confirm onceagain that I never want to be seperated

from you even in spite of all materialillusions. I wish to be with you in eternalglory. Thank you for your Mercy towardme and mine.The prayer must be said for 3 consecutivedays and the request will be granted. Theprayer must be published after the favoris granted. Ann.

MIRACLE PRAYER Dear Heart of Jesus inthe past I have asked for many favours.This time I ask you for a very special one.Take it, dear Heart of Jesus, and place itwithin your own broken heart where yourFather sees it. Then in His merciful eyes itwill become your favour and not mine.Amen. Say this prayer for three days.Promise publication and favour will begranted no matter how impossible. neverknown to fail.J.J.B.

NoVeNas NoVeNas NoVeNas NoVeNas

PLEASE NOTE: If you wish to have your novena published please make adonation to our selected charity. Send a postal order or cheque made payableto Solas Centre (NCBI) and send, along with your novena to: Newsgroup, PO Box 3430, Tallaght, Dublin 24.If you require any further information call us on 01 4519000.

Former GAA President Sean Kelly giving a present of a Kerry jersey to former NASAastronaut Buzz Aldrin

Fine Gael Senator for DublinSouth-West, Cáit Keane, hasurged the Minister for Health, Dr.James Reilly TD, to review theReport of the Commission onAssisted Reproduction followinga landmark High Court rulingyesterday, which found that thegenetic mother of twin girls bornto a surrogate mother has thelegal right to be the declared thetwins' mother. Senator Keane hasbeen urging for some time forthe Minister to declare what thestatus is of the Report of theCommission on Assisted HumanReproduction, an eminent reportprepared under the chairpersonof Professor Dervilla Donnellyover ten years ago. That reportcontains 35 recommendations on

assisted human reproduction. "We have seen once again wherethe legislators have beensuperseded and the Judiciary hastaken a decision that theOireachtas will have to examine.A very serious decision onassisted human reproduction wastaken yesterday and legislatorswill now have to catch up withthis judgement. "I ask that the Report of the

Commission of Assisted HumanReproduction, which contains 35recommendations and which isnearly ten years old, bediscussed by the Oireachtas andthat the Minister will examine itwith a view to implementing itsrecommendations. Yesterday,the genetic parents won their

case to have the biologicalmother recognised as the twins‚mother on their birth certificate,which they were initially deniedfrom doing by the RegistrarGeneral. "We have seen in every spherethat self-regulatory systems arenot acceptable. This is a seriousarea that must be examined. Wehad always understood theprinciple of mater certa semperest, motherhood is alwayscertain, but now science hastaken over and we, aslegislators, have to catch up. Itis not fair to have people inclinics and elsewhereself-regulating and legislationmust be introduced to deal withthis area."

goVerNMeNt urgeD to reVIew report of tHeCoMMIssIoN oN assIsteD HuMaN reproDuCtIoN


unit 2 st dominic’s shopping centre,millbrook lawns, dublin 24

ph: hair salon 452 4791ph: beauty salon 01 462 9761Terms & Conditions apply. See in store for details.48 hour patch test required for all hair & beauty treatments

Rapunzel’s Hair & BeautyFull set ofgel nailsonly €40

shellic nails,strip lashes &

tanonly €40

colours tints from €50

meche from €55

5 For 5 oFFeravailable tuesday’s and

wednesday’s onlyany oF the below €5

● chin ● lip● brow wax ● browtweeze ● brow tint

waxIng bonanzaFull leg and regular

bikini only €30californian only €45brazilian only €55

hollywood only €65

cuts short €20med €25long €30

blow drIesshort €10

med/long €15curly from €15

Full bodywild tanonly €10

strip lashes& make uponly €35


breathnach’s bargainsst dominic’s shopping centre

super giveawayssuper giveaways6 pack

liltcans

€2.00

12 x 500mlstill water

only

€2.00

arielactiliFt 25wash was€7.99 now

€3.99

6 packdiet coke

cans

€2.00

butchersdog meal

500 gr3 bags For

€2.00

lucozadesport500ml4 For

€2.00

giant sizecadburyseggs only

€8.99

cadburyschoc

pretzels 2bags only

€1.00

discoscrisps 6

pack 4 For

€2.00

lyons goldblend teabags 80’s

only

€2.00

hartleys 12tubs orangejelly desert

only

€2.00

lucozade

sport 500ml

24 bottles

€9.99

8 pks oFtop brandbiscuits

only

€2.00

cateringtin Foil

30 metresonly

€3.99

cleaningsprays

500ml cans any 2 For

€3.00

box oF 10eastercardsonly

€1.00

tHIs week’s super speCIalspeND €30

aND get a €10 VouCHer for rapuNZIl’s HaIr & beauty saloN

Terms & Conditions Apply. All special offers subject to availability. See instore for details

tallaght news

Documents