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: info@tallaghtstonecentre.ie web: tallaghtstonecentre.ie

WE ARE BACK OPEN

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

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

Ballyowen Castle, Ballyowen Shopping Centre, Lucan, Co. Dublin. Call 01 - 6105 185 or 01 6760 555

20th July 2020

MISUSE OF NITROUS OXIDE HIGHLIGHTED

Local TD for Dublin Mid-West Mark Ward has welcomed news that the HSE have included information about the misuse of nitrous oxide on www.drugs.ie after he had campaigned for this.

Deputy Ward has been raising concerns about the misuse of nitrous oxide since he became aware of an increase in the use of the drug that was noticeable by the amount of discarded silver canisters in Dublin Mid-West and further afield. Teachta

Ward said: “The misuse of nitrous oxide which is commonly known as silver bullets has become a widespread problem since the outbreak of Covid-19.There has been a spike in the number of discarded canisters of nitrous oxide in parks and public areas.”

The Sinn Fein TD said “You only have to walk through the parks and estates in Dublin Mid-West and beyond and see the discarded canisters that are commonly known as

“silver bullets.” “The Department of Health works with the HSE to raise awareness of the dangers associated with drugs through the www.drugs.ie website, however having visited the drugs.ie website I became aware that there was no mention of nitro oxide in the solvent section.

I subsequently wrote to the Minister and asked for awareness of the dangers of Nitrous Oxide to be included on the website www.drugs.ie”

“I welcome the news that Nitrous Oxide has subsequently been added to www.drugs.ie. Whilst this will not stop the problem it will give parents and children correct and factual information on the dangers of using this substance.”

“The problem is that kids are playing Russian Roulette with this substance and do not know how it will affect them until they take it. These “silver bullets” are used in the catering trade and can be bought for cheap online.

Unscrupulous dealers are then selling them on for big profits.” “People with heart, blood pressure or mental health concerns could be at greater risk. Nitrous Oxide can cause a drop in oxygen levels in the individual which could increase heart rate.”

“I have also called for an awareness programme on the dangers of nitrous oxide to be rolled out in schools, this would be a welcome step in combating and further highlighting this issue.”

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

Distributed by: Local Post Co. Printed by: Meath Chronicle

Contact Details:Website www.newsgroup.ie Email: info@newsgroup.ie

Founder: John Russell Advertising: Anthony Russell anthony@newsgroup.ieAdministration: Sarah Brooks admin@newsgroup.ie

2

LUCAN & RONANSTOWN CRIME PLUMMETS WHILE GARDA DRUG SEIZURES SOAR DURING COVID 19

The local Fine Gael TD, Emer Higgins, warmly welcomed new data from An Garda Siochána showing massive success in tackling drug dealing, through Operation Tara, while crime plummeted during the lockdown.

She said: “The lockdown has been tough for everyone. I am delighted that it was even tougher for drug dealers. “Despite the extra policing pressures placed on them during lockdown, the Gardai’s determination to tackle the scourge of drugs in our community did not waiver. “In Lucan, they recorded a massive

85% increase in searches under the Drugs Act (from 445 to 823) in the first half of this year, resulting in an increase of 15% in arrests for possession of drugs for sale or supply

Emer Higgins continued: “In Ronanstown, the Gardai increased the number of searches under the Drugs Act by a third (from 2,324 to 3,068) resulting in the number of arrests for possession of drugs for sale or supply more than doubling (from 43 to 103). “This work also saw 16 arrests for possession of an offensive weapon in Ronanstown and a further 10 such arrests in

Lucan “The Gardai have had spectacular success in keep our communities safe by seizing drugs and weapons so far this year.High profile seizures include: Cocaine to the value of €117,000 seized on the Outer Ring Road on

the 18th May and Ecstasy to the value of €21,000 seized on Harelawn Green on 26th June

Emer Higgins concluded: “Crime plummeted throughout the lockdown. In Lucan, burglaries, robberies

from establishments and theft of vehicles more than halved during the period. Burglaries fell from 128 to 40; Robbery from establishments fell from 3 to 1; theft of vehicle fell from 42 to 7. “In Ronanstown, robbery

from establishments were eliminated (fell from 10 to 0), while burglaries fell by a third (from 83 to 55), ‘robbery from person’ almost halved (from 12 to 7), while theft of vehicles fell by over a quarter (from 44 to 32).

ST MARY NATIONAL SCHOOL BLESSING

In recent months due to the Covid19 pandemic 6th class students from St Mary’s National School in Tallaght were unable to make their confirmation and graduate. Parents got together and made contact with the church to see if the children could receive a blessing. On the 2nd of July, the Tallaght pupils received their blessing in the Priory in Tallaght village followed by a socially distanced party on the church grounds. The parents would like to thank the businesses that sponsored the party including Supervalu Fortunestown, Roma Springfield, Rose Confectionary and IKEA. Pic Credit: MJ Photography

Pictured 6th class group shot

3

MASSIVE INCREASE IN ILLEGAL DUMPING IS CAUSE FOR CONCERNFianna Fáil Councillor for Pa lmers town-Fonth i l l , Shane Moynihan, has expressed alarm at the increased prevalence of littering and illegal dumping across Lucan, Palmerstown and Clondalkin in recent months.

Cllr Moynihan said “The increased prevalence of illegal dumping has become apparent throughout Palmerstown, Lucan and

North Clondalkin but has also been marked by a noticeable increase in littering, especially of face masks and disposable gloves. Our communities take pride in our area - it is unfair to have this reputation sullied by a few.” Figures released to Cllr Moynihan show that the volume of dumped material collected during the months of March and April has increased by 33% compared

to the same period in 2019. Worryingly, there has been a reduction in the amount of litter being collected from litter bins which is 13% less than the same period in 2019.

Cllr Moynihan added: “Since being elected, I have consistently called for more targeted approach to illegal dumping, by reporting its incidence and using CCTV to identify perpetrators.

PREMIER BUSINESS CENTRES 21 YEARS IN BUSINESS

Premier Business Centres one of which is in Citywest celebrates 21 years in business. Photography: Conor Healy / Picture It

We need to increase provision of public litter bins to build the positive habit of disposing of litter responsibly.

I welcome the continued

commitment of South Dublin County Council to continue funding Tidy Towns groups who undertake Trojan work to benefit us all” “As we all adapt to spending more time at home and in our

localities, we need to make sure that we protect what we have.

Keeping our area clean and tidy is something which makes us all proud.”

€25 MILLION OWED IN DEVELOPMENT LEVIES TO SOUTH DUBLIN C0C0

It has been revealed that approximately €25 million is owed by various private developers to South Dublin County Council for development levies. The development levies are charged to private developers to partially cover the cost of public infrastructure such as roads, parks and community facilities.

The figure was revealed through a Question to the July South Dublin

County Council meeting submitted by local People Before Profit councillor Madeleine Johansson. Cllr Johansson commented: “It is outrageous that such a huge amount of money is owed to the council from private developers. €25 million could go a long way towards providing community facilities and infrastructure.

The Palmerstown / Fonthill Councillor added “There needs to be a strong

enforcement regime to ensure that these levies are paid in full before any homes or commercial facilities are brought in to use. “The council has proposed an altered development contribution scheme which will now go out to public consultation.

I’m urging the public to make submissions in relation to the outstanding fees. I will make a submission calling for stronger enforcement for uncollected levies.”

The New Rhino Door Collection“What you see

is what you get”

ONLY €2,250Largest Range of Designs

& Colours Available

Door & 1 sidelight - €1,895Door only - €1,495

Price is for Supply & Fit. Price includes VAT.T&C’s apply. Offer ends 7th Aug ‘20

Call us today for details, advise and

ordering.

Telephone: 01 419 9989Mobile: 086 140 8633

4

IRISH RED CROSS TALLAGHT FUNDRAISER

Local branch of the Irish Red Cross in Tallaght needs your help! Their virtual 10k is getting closer by the day and members have been out training in their 10k T-Shirts. Get involved by visiting: www.irishredcrosstallaght.com/virtual10k. Or to donate without participating go to: www.irishredcrosstallaght.com/dontate. To follow their progress see facebook.com/IrishRedCrossTallaght.

PARENTS OF NEW BABIES TO RECEIVE AN ADDITIONAL SIX WEEKS’ LEAVE

Senator Mary Seery Kearney has welcomed the decision to give parents of new babies an additional six weeks’ leave. Senator Kearney was speaking after the Government committed to examining an extension of Parent’s leave from two weeks to five weeks for mothers and fathers, representing an additional three weeks’ leave for each parent.

Fine Gael’s newly-appointed Seanad spokesperson on Children, Disability, Equality,

Integration & Privacy Rights said, “I am pleased that the Government has announced this measure as it will support parents who have grappled with their new baby and lacked all the usual, necessary and expected supports particularly due to the pandemic.

“It will be formalised as part of Budget 2021 in the autumn and will apply to any child born after 1st November, 2019. “The combined extension brings two parent families from

KILTIPPER PARK PART 8Cllr. Alan Edge commented on the recent Kiltipper Park planned development “My motion concerning the planned development of Kiltipper Park was passed by 24 votes”. The motion read “That this Council requests the Chief Executive to look at the reorientation of the soccer and GAA pitches to maximise distance from the houses on Ellensborough Grange”. The local Councillor continued “I’m pleased that the Council have taken on board the concerns of residents about the proximity

of a proposed GAA pitch to homes in Ellensborough. While I absolutely welcome the Council’s sports pitch strategy and the need for more facilities like this, a very careful balance needs to be struck in terms of where to site pitches in order to ensure that the impact on residents is minimised. I’m pleased that the Council have agreed to consult with residents going forward on matters such as how to mitigate the visual impact and the noise from the pitches”.

a total of 28 weeks where maternity and paternity leave is paid, to a total of 34 weeks where maternity and paternity payments are applicable.

“Mothers can still exercise their right to take their additional 16 weeks unpaid leave and parents also have the option to take parental leave. All parents who exercise their rights to these leave options do so and maintain their connection with their employers. “This measure will be available to both mothers and fathers

and will apply to all future parents. The Government values the work of all parents and ensure that they are supported in their childcare choices, whether

that be with childminders, in childcare settings, or in the home. “I thank the Minister for Children, Disability, Equality and Integration, Roderic O’Gorman for

acknowledging the difficulties faced by parents particularly during this period and look forward to working with him in the future on this crucial area.”

5

PLANNING PERMISSION GRANTED FOR 245 NEW HOMES IN LUCANQuintan the Irish arm of Quintain Limited, has received planning permission to construct 245 new homes at Tandy’s Lane in Lucan. The site is around 20 acres in size and includes a large linear park running through the neighbourhood providing high visual and social amenity value.

The site has a gross development value of c.€82

million and construction will begin at the end of the year, with the first homes coming to market in the middle of 2021. The development will include 213 houses, 16 duplexes and 15 apartments. The range of unit types provided will allow for lifetime living whereby people can trade up or down within the scheme should the need arise. This in turn

SEARCH FOR IRELAND’S BEST BANANA BREAD RECIPEWith home baking one of the most popular activities enjoyed by families in recent times – and banana bread one of the most sought-after recipes – it is not surprising that a call would go out inviting mums, dads and children throughout Dublin and beyond to join in a search to find Ireland’s best banana bread recipe.Behind it is Ireland’s well-known television chef, Donal Skehan whose programmes are a favourite amongst viewers and wannabe cooks. Backed by Fyffes, the purpose is to discover some of the hidden ingredients and secrets that make baking banana bread so popular. Reward will go to the overall winner

and best junior baker with recognition for originality in a number of other areas. Entries open from July 20th - 27th with results to

be announced on July 31st. Details online at www.fyffes.com/news/article/fyffes-great-banana-bread-bake-off

Open Friday 24th & Saturday 25th July 2020From 10am to 3pm

WE LOOK FORWARD TO WELCOMING YOU BACK.All safety measures in place with ample space in

store, easy parking & no crowds!

lends itself to the creation of a diverse community. Tandy’s Lane Village is close to Quintain’s Somerton development where the first phase is complete.

Quintain have also reached agreement in principle for the delivery of a new primary school at Tandy’s Lane with the Department of Education. They are targeting a 2023 opening for this new primary school. Delivering new schools in tandem with new housing is a vital part of Quintain’s development philosophy which is to create sustainable new communities with amenities and open space placemaking an essential component.

Quintain is developing 220 acres in the Adamstown/Lucan area, where it plans to develop over 4,000 new homes and 600,000 sq.ft. of commercial space. The company’s broader land portfolio covers 460 acres of prime assets in Ireland at Adamstown, Clonburris, Portmarnock, and Cherrywood, and when developed will make

Quintain the third largest residential developer in the country

Michael Hynes, Joint Managing Partner of Quintain Ireland, said: “We are delighted to be making further progress on our residential pipeline in the Lucan area with

this planning approval for Tandy’s Lane Village.

These 245 homes will form part of a growing community with access to green space and school facilities, and the wider amenities of Lucan on the doorstep with easy access to Dublin city centre. These

homes will be completed to the high building standards and leading environmental specifications that Quintain guarantees to its buyers.

They represent the latest stage in Quintain’s plans to deliver 9,000 homes across four sites in the Greater Dublin area.”

Vedoneire OutletGreenhills Industrial Estate, Walkinstown, Dublin 12

6

ARE YOU PLAYING LIFE BLINDLY? OR DO YOU HAVE

A STRATEGYBy 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.

There are two types of people in the world, proactive people and reactive people.

In University, if I had two months to write an essay, I would start it the night before and pull an all-nighter to hand it in just-on-time.

Long deadlines never motivated me to take action, but knowing a 5,000-word essay is due in 24 hours? I’m suddenly very motivated!

I had friends who would plan out their essays for the two months; prepare their research; sketch their notes. They would bring their deadline forward and hand their

essays a week early...

While they were preparing to prepare, I was that person always running around, arriving late to everything, forgetting commitments I’d made, pulling out of promises

last minute.

My life was an impending deadline - stressful!

I realised that I am reactive and that those friends are proactive.

Now don’t get me wrong, there are A LOT of benefits of being reactive.

For example, we are very flexible and adaptable as we are used to acting on the spot and working with short deadlines.

However, when I began putting plans in place and organising my day my life became easier.

The key to being reactive is to be proactive about your reactivity.

In turn, my proactive friends learned how to be more flexible and adaptable, to think on the spot and make quick decisions – they took their proactive skills into reactive

situations and learned to thrive.

How can you be proactive about your reactivity? Or be proactive in reactive situations?

PICNIC IN THE PARK IN AID OF LAURALYNNDare we say it, we appear to be slowly emerging from the worst effects of COVID-19. But for those who have suffered loss and pain, this may never go away. And yet we must continue to provide help and support to all those who are still struggling to cope with many other difficulties that existed before the advent of this pandemic and continue to exist today. This year, Motorsport Ireland will support the RIAC, who over the years, have

raised thousands of euro for LauraLynn, Ireland’s Children’s Hospice, through its annual “Picnic in the Park”.

They seek your help and support for those in LauraLynn who provide outstanding service to ensure Ireland’s only hospice for children with life-limiting conditions can continue to operate at the highest level possible for those most vulnerable in our lives. Unfortunately,

they cannot host a group physical “Picnic in the Park” opportunity this year in Marlay Park. Instead, they are hosting a virtual Picnic on the planned date of 22nd July.

You have three opportunities to get involved; 1. Host a real picnic with your family on or before 22nd July and email your photos to info@riac.ie. Include your cherished car or motorcycle in the image provided and we will post

this on our website. Then please donate at www.lauralynn.ie/donate using the reference ‘Picnic’. We will award a small prize to the photo that best captures the spirit of the occasion. 2 Post a photo of your family picnic on 22nd July to your Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram profile with the hashtag #VirtualPicnicInthePark and tag Motorsport Ireland & LauraLynn. Then please submit your donation at www.lauralynn.ie/donate using the reference ‘Picnic’. Or 3. Without hosting a picnic, but you would still like to help, then please submit your donation at www.lauralynn.ie/donate using the reference ‘Picnic’.

Sarah Meagher, Head of Fundraising at LauraLynn said: ‘’We are so grateful to the RIAC and Motorsport

Ireland for supporting our work here in LauraLynn. As we navigate through this global pandemic it is so heart-warming to see supporters and fundraisers adapting their events to fit our new virtual world. Now, more than ever, every donation counts, and we want to thank all those involved in this special event for helping us to help the 220 families across Ireland who rely on our services.”

Peter Cosgrave, RIAC organiser for Picnic in the Park said: “LauraLynn is a wonderful organisation that provides compassionate care and support to children and their families. We at the RIAC have been delighted to support its efforts over the past 14 years thanks to the generosity of our members. This year is different for

us all but LauraLynn needs our support more than ever. Please find in it your hearts to donate.”

John Naylor, President of Motorsport Ireland said: “We are delighted to support our close colleagues in the RIAC in promoting this fantastic and innovative virtual event. LauraLynn is an incredibly important charity and I would urge those within the Motorsport community and further afield to donate what they can to this worthwhile cause.”We do not know when this pandemic will end – no one does. But, in the meantime, can we continue to make a difference to those children who need it most? Yes, we can!

For more information see www.lauralynn.ie.

7

REA McGEE are delighted to present this superb top-floor apartment to the market, situated within this modern and much sought-after residential development with communal landscaped areas and parking, this apartment is finished to a high specification throughout.

The accommodation on offer is instantly appealing and extends to approximately 56.08 sq. (603 sq. ft.).

Briefly comprising of entrance hall, the open plan kitchen / dining / living room runs the length of the property and is very well

PROPERTY OF THE WEEK WITH REA MCGEE -APT 35 THE CRESCENT, FORTFIELD SQUARE,

DUBLIN 6

Viewing highly recommended by appointment through REA McGEE

Price Region €330,000.Phone: 01 4057700.Contact Declan Reilly

087 253 1012 or by email declan@reamcgee.ie.

appointed, two double bedrooms and spacious bathroom completes the accommodation.

Fortfield Square is superbly located off Fortfield Grove just a short walk from Terenure and Templeogue villages benefitting from a host of amenities.Fortfield Square is well serviced by bus routes to include the 15, 49, 65, 65B and 54A. The development is also within close proximity of the M50.

8

DEALZ OPENS NEW RATHFARNHAM STOREDealz, Ireland’s largest discount retailer has opened its new store in Rathfarnham Shopping Centre, Rathfarnham this is the retailer’s third store in the local area, with two more at Nutgrove Shopping

Centre and Nutgrove Retail Centre.

The new Rathfarnham store boasts 9,532 square feet of space and includes Dealz’s stylish and affordable fashion brand PEP&CO.

Customers can also choose from a wide range of well-known brands and Dealz own label products, from everyday essentials to health and beauty, as well as seasonal offerings including home décor and gifting ranges.

Dealz Retail Country Manager, Olivia McLoughlin said: “We are delighted to be launching our new store in Rathfarnham – it’s a sign of our ambition to grow the Dealz offering in Ireland. Additional job creation and investment in this new store is part of our renewed commitment to Ireland and the communities we serve. We look forward to welcoming shoppers from the local community into the store over the coming days, weeks and months ahead.”

The new store is part of a major investment in Ireland by Dealz. It also sees new openings in Buncrana, Co. Donegal, and Clonakilty, Cork. This will bring the portfolio in Ireland to an impressive 100 stores and

creates 75 new jobs. Dealz has operated as an essential service through COVID-19, providing support to local communities across Ireland.

With these new openings, Dealz looks forward to being part of a vibrant retail community, creating local jobs and bringing

great value to savvy Irish shoppers.

For more information visit www.dealz.ie.

Pictured: Retail Country Manager, Olivia McLoughlin

9

10

11

PLIGHT OF LOCAL SCHOOLS RAISED IN DÁILNewly elected TD for Dublin Mid West, Emer Higgins, raised the need for investment in local schools during a debate with the new Minister for Education. Speaking in the make-shift Dáil Chamber located temporarily in the Convention Centre Dublin, Higgins said that the

experience of schools in her constituency doesn’t inspire hope. She cited seven schools in Dublin Mid West that were promised funding, promised new buildings and but were stuck in the lengthy planning process.

She also points out that an eighth school, St Mary’s

Boys National School, also in need of a new building has initiated the process for capital investment.

“St Joseph’s secondary school in Lucan is waiting on a new building for 15 years. Scoil Áine and St Thomas’ school in Lucan remain in prefabs. Lucan

Community College is awaiting extension for as long as I can remember. Scoil Chrónáin is still awaiting it’s new building and it’s site is the subject of a planning application for a different, temporary school. Griffeen Community College is operating out of another school and my own secondary school Holy Family Community

School which is waiting on a new school building since before I graduated,” said Deputy Emer Higgins during a debate with the newly appointed Minister for Education, Norma Foley.

“This simply isn’t good enough and that’s why I got involved in politics, to shout about these kind of issues in my constituency. Minister, I

know from your background as a teacher and a local politician, that you must understand the justifiable outrage felt by parents, teachers and students.

I’m asking you to help me, help me secure these new buildings – all promised for, all budgeted for and all needed,” concluded Emer Higgins.SAVE THE FIRHOUSE EDUCATE TOGETHER

SECONDARY SCHOOLAct now to ensure that the students of the Firhouse Educate Together Secondary School have accommodation within their catchment area in September. Immediately arrange the promised temporary site so that these children are not left out in the cold.

The Firhouse Educate Together Secondary School community has been left reeling with the news that suitable accommodation for their school is not in place for September, as promised by the Department of Education and Skills. P a r e n t s / G u a r d i a n s , students, the Board of Management, the staff team and supporters are all calling on an immediate, appropriate solution to ensure children are not left out in the cold with no school this September.

Having been accommodated to date on the campus of two co-located National schools, plans have been continually delayed in both acquisition and planning for the permanent School building. A permanent site has now been secured which was warmly welcomed and the Board of Management, p a r e n t s / g u a r d i a n s , students and the staff team were promised a temporary solution in the locality pending the construction of the new school, expected to take up to 24 months.

Instead they are dismayed to learn that the Department of Education is now proposing to require children to travel to a site in Citywest/Saggart, located far beyond the school catchment area, until the school is built. A bus funded by the Department is proposed to carry the children from Firhouse to Citywest and back. Conor Harrison, Chairperson of the Board

To follow the campaign and sign the petition see their facebook page - www.facebook.

com/SOSFirhouseEducateTogetherSS/

of Management said: “This proposal was already put forward by the Department and rejected by both the Board of Management and school community back in December 2019, as wholly inappropriate. We are incredibly disappointed and dismayed to see it being put back on the table again. It shows a staggering lack of imagination or will to follow through and secure an accommodation that will not impact so negatively on our students, their families and the staff team.”

He emphasised: “A site was identified locally to accommodate the school temporarily, with considerable time and expense already invested in preparing and submitting plans. Suddenly there is no mention of this option and we are asking the Department to urgently explain their silence and set out clearly if and why this cannot be pursued as intended?”

Parents including, Eoghan Looney, expressed anger and frustration at the DES proposal: “This feels like a kick in the teeth. Our children can currently access their school by walking or bike. We were told a local option was being pursued and now there is this news at the 11th hour, and in the middle of a public crisis.” Mr Looney continued: “What if a child misses this proposed bus to ferry them out to Citywest, or gets sick in school? We can’t drive them as we both work full time, and many other parents/guardians are in the same boat. Many of us don’t have any direct commuting options for

Citywest.

What about extracurricular activities, sports, drama, etc.? All these will be compromised and that’s unacceptable. Why should our children suffer? The Department needs to engage with us meaningfully, and find a solution to continue accommodation of the school locally.”

Another parent June*, who is one of a number of parents whose child has healthcare needs, laments the proposal as a non-starter for her child. “My child has to attend medical appointments and that means sometimes arriving late or leaving class early. We simply can’t manage this with a site so far away.

This proposal puts us in an incredibly tough situation with no other current options for alternative schooling at this short notice, besides the fact that it would break our heart to have to leave this wonderful school. Our levels of anxiety are through the roof and this feels like a callous disregard of our child’s rights by the Department. It can’t go ahead.”

The signatories of this petition are calling on the Department of Education and Skills to engage with the school urgently to quickly secure accommodations that will not fracture a new and much needed local school in which the students have been blossoming despite the adversity it has faced since opening.

*Name changed to protect the confidentiality of parent and child.

12

13

14

15

16

COLOUR

ME IN

NOTES:

17

Home cooking

and bakingSPICY VEGETABLE SOUPIngredients :

Half teaspoon cuminHalf teaspoon coriander Half teaspoon hot chilli powder.2 vegetable stock cubes2 carrots2 potatoes1 onion800 millilitres of water25g butter

Method :

Peel and chop the vegetables, in a pot over a medium heat melt the butter, add the onion and sauté until soft.

Add the potatoes, carrots and spices give it a good stir add the stock cubes and water bring to the boil, simmer until the vegetables are cooked. Blitz with a hand blender until smooth.

Chatamari by Bal Krishna ShresthaThis is a Authentic food made by a Newari families from Kathmandu in Nepal. Chatamari is usually eaten on special occasions and festivals. Nowadays, it is preparing , any time with toppings of minced meat, egg, cheese and other

vegetables.

PREPARING TIME -25 MIN. COOKING TIME -25 MIN.SERVE-6-8 PEOPLE.

Ingredients

Batter:200g rice flour25g plain flour (optional)225ml water

Topping:50 ml oil100 g chopped onion1 tsp garlic and ginger paste1/3 tsp ground turmeric250 g minced meat1/3 tsp ground cuminSalt to taste1 tbsp chopped Coriander leaves

1. Heat a frying pan with a splash of oil and fry the chopped onion, ginger, garlic paste for a few minutes.

2. Add minced chicken, turmeric and the rest of spices. Cook for 5 mins on medium heat and stir well while cooking.

3. Leave aside to cool it. Drain off any excess juice from meat.

4. Add rice flour and plain flour in a wide mixing bowl. Pour water in the bowl slowly; mix it well tomake smooth batter (not too thin or thick). Rest it for 30 min.

5. Heat a non-stick frying pan. Pour one

ladle of the rice flour batter in the middle of the frying pan and make a shape of a circle.

6. Spread the prepared chicken mix over the rice pancake.

7. Cover with a lid and cook for 2-3 mins on medium heat. .

8. Make same way rest of all chatamri

9. Serve immediately with chopped Coriander and any chutney.

10.You can use your choice filling - egg, vegetables and cheese.

Method:

Mango Chicken CurryIngredients :

2 chicken breasts 1 and half tsp curry powder 1/2 tsp turmeric 1:2 tsp curry powder 1/2 tsp cumin 1/2 tsp dried coriander 1/2 jar of mango chutney 1 chicken stock pot Can of coconut milk1 tbsp of tomato purée 1 onion 2 garlic cloves crushed Small piece of ginger chopped finely

Method :

In olive oil, fry the chopped onion, garlic and ginger. When soft, add the spices, purée and fry for 1-2 minutes.

Then add chopped chicken and cook for a few mins until chicken is cooked.

Then add chutney, stock pot and some coconut milk, gradually add the coconut milk until it is at the thickness you would like.

Serve with naan bread or basmati rice.

18

MOTORING LIFE WITHALL-NEW KIA ‘XCEED’ – CREATED TO EXCEED EXPECTATIONS.The all-new Kia XCeed is a new urban Crossover Utility Vehicle (CUV) from Kia Motors which combines compact SUV practicality with the sporty packaging, and engaging handling of a hatchback. A sporty alternative to traditional SUVs, the new CUV nevertheless offers comparable levels of space for occupants and luggage. The Kia XCeed engages drivers with its sporty handling and a comfortable, assured ride, while providing a more commanding view of the road ahead than a conventional hatchback. The XCeed’s suite of advanced safety, connectivity and infotainment features make it one of the most high-tech cars in the CUV class. Powered by a range of fast-revving, turbocharged engines, it is also one of the most efficient.

Emotional & Dynamic;

The new Kia XCeed is more emotional and dynamic in format and appearance than its taller rivals, while offering something different to the other models in the Ceed range. The only body panels carried over from its five-door hatchback sibling are the front doors. The front and rear of the car also represent a departure from the ‘face’ of the conventional Ceed model family, differentiating the Kia XCeed from its stablemates. The headlamps are newly-designed, with the Ceed’s ‘ice cube’ LED light signature sitting within a more angular shape, topped by a slim turn signal that flows back over the wheel arches.At the rear, new tail-lights emit a slim, highly-technical LED light signature which, when viewed from certain angles, appears to spear forward into the shoulders of the car. The heavily-creased lines running horizontally across the tailgate and rear bumper give the car a wider, more stable posture. The car’s elevated ride height and body also present the same robust image

that attracts buyers to the other SUVs in Kia’s product portfolio.

Trim & Engine Options;

Trim levels in the new XCeed are classified as K2, K3 and range-topping K4, with even the entry-level K2 specification including such key features as Lane Keep Assist, High Beam Assist, Driver Attention Warning, Forward Collision Avoidance (car and pedestrian), Tyre Pressure Monitoing System, reverse parking sensors, manual air-conditioning, ABS, EBD, Hill Start Assist, leather steering wheel & gear knob, split-folding rear seats, centre armrest, Bluetooth with voice recognition, 8” touchscreen with rear view camera, Android Auto™ & Apple CarPlay™ compatability, central door locking, cruise control, 16” alloy wheels, roof rails, rear privacy glass, and LED front & rear lamps. There are two engine options in the new front-wheel-drive Kia XCeed – a 1.0-litre T-GDI (120PS) turbocharged petrol unit, and a 1.6-litre CRDi (115PS) turbo-diesel.

While the petrol engine is available across the entire model line-up, the diesel engine is only available in the mid-spec K3 trim level, while a six-speed manual gearbox comes as standard no matter what engine or trim level is chosen. Kia’s terrific 1.0-litre petrol engine produces an impressive 172Nm of torque, while the torque figure for the diesel engine is a healthy 280Nm, with both engines providing a perfect blend of power and economy, along with low annual road tax. A plug-in petrol-electric plug-in hybrid (PHEV) has just recently joined the Kia XCeed range, with a 1.6-litre petrol engine and electric motors working together to produce an impressive 141bhp. Kia claim that the XCeed PHEV is capable of covering up to 64 km’s on battery power alone.

By Breda Corrigan

Test Car;

My test car was a new Kia XCeed 1.6 CRDi K3 in stylish Cosmos Blue metallic paint. Key features which come as standard in K3 specification include an electronic parking brake, 18” alloy wheels, metal pedals, cloth & artificial leather upholstery, yellow colour pack, 10.25” touchscreen, TomTom navigation with WiFi, wireless phone charger, chrome coated front grille, high gloss centre facia, and a side repeater lamp on the outside mirrors. Externally, and from every angle, you can tell this is a crossover with a difference. A daring lower front grille and subtle satin chrome skid plate add extra excitement to the mix, while the car’s bold shape, and playful persona, clearly indicate that the new Kia XCeed is designed for drivers who live for the next thrill ahead. Additionally, the XCeed’s rakish tailgate and sleek design hides an extremely practical and well packaged interior.

All occupants are treated to ample head, leg and elbow room, while a 426-litre boot (31-litres more than the Kia Ceed hatchback) ensures that passengers and their luggage can travel in comfort, and style. There are lots of storage area troughout the cars cabin too, while supportive seats and an ergonomically-efficient dashboard completes the high quality look, and feel, of the interior.

On The Road;

On the road, my test car admirably demonstrated how well its 280Nm of torque translates into terrific pulling power – even in high gears, providing the car with competent cruising ability, along with excellent refinement on the move too. Capable of sprinting from 0-100km/h in 11.4-seconds, the CRDi engine can reach a top speed of 190km/h, while returning a fuel consumption figure as low as 3.8l/100km on a combined driving cycle (based on NEDC2 test procedure figures). Overall ride comfort is great, while the car retains its composure through bends, and when driving over speed ramps or uneven surfaces. The raised ride height of the new XCeed, along with its rugged off-road appearance and striking good looks, will certainly appeal to families looking for a crossover with style and substance in equal measure.

Pricing;

The new Kia XCeed was created to exceed expectations in the highly competitive CUV market, and with prices starting from just €26,345 (ex-works) it offers outstanding value for money too.Kia’s comprehensive 7-Year/150,000km warranty comes as standard across the entire Kia passenger car range. The new Kia XCeed is on sale now.

19

CASWELL Wrought Iron

PH: 01 4519 773 / 086 250 3130

Gates & Railings, Ram Bars etc.MOBILE WELDING - 24 CALL OUT

ESTIMATES FREE ● LOWEST PRICES

Local Business

ClassifiedsEASY WAYS TO PLACE AN AD Tel: 01 45 19000 Email: info@newsgroup.ie Online: www.newsgroup.ie

ADVERTISE HERETELEPHONE 01 451 9000

EMAIL info@newsgroup.ie

EASY WAYS TO PLACE AN AD

Tel: 01 451 9000Email: info@newsgroup.ie

Online: newsgroup.ie

TOTAL GARDENING & LANDSCAPE SERVICES

ND IN ARBORICULTURE & BA IN HORTICULTUREAll Trees expertly Felled & PrunedTrees removed, Roots destroyedGarden renovated, shaped & designedPower Washing service (We supply our own water)Patios, Fencing & RepairingNo payment until all work is completeCompetitive PricesAll Size Shed Supplied & FittedFOR A FREE, NO OBLIGATION QUOTE

Call 01 5143592 or 085 1962903Email: totalgardenservice2@gmail.com

www.tgls.ieFully insured & registered, more than 10yrs experience

30% DISCOUNT

WITH THISADVERT

Richard Kinsella, Garden Services,Clondalkin.

● Hedge Cutting ● Pruning ● Garden Maintenance ● Planting

● Green Waste Removal.Contact 087 9983821

richardkinsella2001@yahoo.co.uk

GARDENER

20