Come and join us for the Polar Plunge for Special Olympics at Clogherhead Beach on Sat 6 Dec 11am

Labour Senator Mary Moran is encouraging people in Co. Louth to come for a swim at Clogherhead Beach on Saturday, 6th December to raise awareness and funds for Special Olympics Ireland.

'I have had the great pleasure of working with Special Olympics over the last few years and seeing first-hand the excellent and life-changing work they undertake every single day.  I have been involved in the national Polar Plunge at the 40ft in Dublin for  the last four years.  This year Special Olympics Ireland will be hosting Polar Plunge events throughout the country in an effort to raise funds and awareness for the organisation.  The Polar Plunge involves a brief plunge into the sea with hot drinks to warm participants up afterwards.  Fancy dress is encouraged and a best fancy dress prize will be awarded on the day.

'I am delighted to support and assist in the preparations for the Polar Plunge at Clogherhead Beach on Saturday, 6th December at 11am.  I would encourage anyone interested in participating to contact me for further information and I would be happy to assist. Tel 042-9329052 or email mary.moran@oir.ie

Louth Broadband plan gets clearer as new map launched

A new map service enabling people in Louth to find out whether they will get high-speed broadband from a commercial operator or the State has been welcomed by Senator Mary Moran.
“Access to broadband is vital for every home and business in our county.
“Not only does it help attract investment and jobs to rural areas, but it also enables people to interact socially with one another, access important information about public services, and to use it as a learning tool.
“The new online map service launched today by my colleague, Communications Minister Alex White, allows people to easily identify the areas where broadband will be provided by a commercial operator by the end of 2016, and where the State will then intervene.
“Each county gets its own map, giving us a very clear and accurate picture of the specific plan to deliver high-speed broadband to every single home, school and business in Louth.
“The new maps are available on www.broadband.gov.ie, where county-specific statistics on the plans for broadband coverage can also be viewed. A consultation on the maps will also get underway with communities and industry in order to ensure they accurately reflect the extent of the planned State intervention.
“The plan to have commercial operators deliver broadband in certain parts by the end of 2016, and for the State to then invest in all the remaining areas makes sense. It is part of the Government’s overall strategy to ensure parity of coverage between urban and rural areas.
“It simply should no longer be the case that just because someone is living in a rural community, they don’t have the same opportunities when it comes to online access.  
“In that vein, I strongly welcome Minister White’s confirmation again today to bridge the digital divide between rural and urban Ireland - the launch of the new maps service for each county is a step in that direction.”

Louth County Council urged to apply for share of massive€3.8 billion social housing fund

With Minister Alan Kelly

Senator Mary Moran has called on Louth County Council to ensure it applies without delay for its share of the €3.8billion social housing fund announced this week.

“We have a real social housing need in Dundalk, and this week's announcement by Minister Alan Kelly to deliver 35,000 homes across the country over the next six years is greatly welcome. Indeed this is the biggest investment in social housing in the history of the State.

"Now I am urging Louth County Council to submit applications to this fund, to address the social housing problem. New rules put in place by Minister Kelly mean that the County Council will take a strong leading role in social housing provision in Dundalk, where previously it was mainly the job of private operators.

“I also welcome confirmation from Minister Kelly that the State will also support up to 75,000 new houses through enhanced private rental sector supports.

“I regularly meet with local people in need of suitable accommodation particularly people with a disability.  I lobbied Minister Kelly hard to ensure there was a significant social housing provision in the recent Budget, and today’s news of a massive investment plan shows we have delivered on that work. I will continue to work with Louth County Council and my Government colleagues to appropriately address the social housing need that exists for families as well as people with disability.

“The local authority here in Louth must ensure it gets its application in order and send it to Minister Kelly without delay, to ensure the work of providing homes for families in Dundalk begins.”

Speaking in the Seanad on the critical role that Sport plays in our society

Speaking today in the Seanad in the Order of Business on medical cards and the recent sex abuse allegations.

Delighted to welcome TENI members to Leinster House for a briefing on gender recongition

Speaking in the Seanad Adjournment debate on a medical card issue

€28million minor works grant funding for primary schools

Senator Mary Moran has welcomed the announcement today that €28m in Minor Works Grant funding will issue to all primary schools with permanent recognition next week.

'This funding allocation will go towards vital improvements to school buildings, grounds, and mechanical and electrical services.  The grant will also go towards purchasing standard furniture, IT related equipment and physical education equipment.  Once the grant issues next week, permanently recognised schools will be in a position to carry out these works without having to deal directly with the Department of Education.

'The rates payable to fully recognised schools are €5,500 per school plus €18.50 per mainstream pupil and €74 per special needs pupil.  The grant will have a significant impact on small and large schools alike.

'As Seanad Spokesperson for Education I regularly engage with principals and teachers across the county and know this grant is coming at a time when schools are in need of funding to carry out the works and purchase the equipment outlined under this grant.  I look forward to the positive impact this will have for students and wider school communities in the coming months.'

Festival of Light and Culture starts on Friday 28th Nov in Dundalk

Congratulations to local firm McArdle Skeath on Export Industry Award

Local company McArdle Skeath picked up the ‘Getting You There’ Company of the Year award at the Export Industry awards in the Convention Centre in Dublin on Friday night.
The Inniskeen-based firm, which offers transportation services, refrigeration and storage, were popular winners of the award, which was sponsored by Supply Chain Ireland.
They were one of three local firms to clinch one of the 11 awards on the night.
Dunleer-based Suretank picked up the High Growth Markets Exporter of the Year award, sponsored by Enterprise Ireland, while ABP Ireland in Ardee collected the Multinational Exporter of the Year award, sponsored by Aer Lingus Cargo.
Well done to all concerned.

Dromiskin Tidy Towns Concert in Darver Castle Sun 30th Nov

Saturday 6 Dec is Small Business Saturday

The 6th of December 2014 is Small Business Saturday - A day to embrace and shop local.
 
Small Business Saturday exists to support, inspire and promote Irish small businesses on the 6th December and beyond.
 
Small Business Saturday started as a grassroots, non-political, non-commercial campaign, which highlights small business success and encourages consumers to 'shop local' and support small businesses in their communities.
 
DID YOU KNOW

• Retail employs 272,000 people - most of which are employed by small local stores
• That every €1 spent in a local store is worth €4 to the local economy

GET INVOLVED

Marketing Pack
To get our Small Business Saturday Marketing collateral click here 

 

Social Media Be sure to tell us how you are getting involved in Small Business Saturday by using the hashtag #SmallBizSaturday on Facebook and Twitter

Be part of the Special Olympics Clogherhead Polar Plunge

 

 

Labour Senator Mary Moran is encouraging people in Co. Louth to come for a swim at Clogherhead Beach on Saturday, 6th December to raise awareness and funds for Special Olympics Ireland.

'I have had the great pleasure of working with Special Olympics over the last few years and seeing first-hand the excellent and life-changing work they undertake every single day.  I have been involved in the national Polar Plunge at the 40ft in Dublin for  the last four years.  This year Special Olympics Ireland will be hosting Polar Plunge events throughout the country in an effort to raise funds and awareness for the organisation.  The Polar Plunge involves a brief plunge into the sea with hot drinks to warm participants up afterwards.  Fancy dress is encouraged and a best fancy dress prize will be awarded on the day.

'I am delighted to support and assist in the preparations for the Polar Plunge at Clogherhead Beach on Saturday, 6th December at 11am.  I would encourage anyone interested in participating to contact me for further information and I would be happy to assist.

Accessibility issues need to be addressed in Dundalk Town Hall

 I am urging  Louth County Council to address the longstanding accessibility issues present in Dundalk Town Hall.   Since entering the Seanad  I have received numerous complaints, specifically regarding the auditorium and toilet facilities, from local residents regarding the accessibility of Dundalk Town Hall.    
Following these representations,  I have been in contact with Louth County Council over the course of the last couple of years to raise this issue.
'We have an opportunity to address this issue prior to the busy holiday and panto season and provide the appropriate facilities for people with a disability or limited mobility.  Wheelchair users and individuals with a disability should be able to enjoy the same access as anyone else who visits the Town Hall.
'Earlier this year I held a meeting to address accessibility issues in Dundalk town centre following an accessibility report compiled by Mr John Morgan, a Dundalk resident.  Those who attended the meeting were anxious that the council consult with them prior to undertaking works in the town centre.  I fully support further consultation and believe that the accessibility issues raised regarding the Town Hall should be addressed as a matter of urgency.  I will continue to actively engaging with the council and residents in the community regarding accessibility in our town centre and Town Hall.
'I will continue to engage with  Louth County Council to address the accessibility issues in Dundalk Town Hall as a matter of urgency.'

First national Innovation Showcase takes place on Tues 2 Dec in the Convention Centre Dublin. Register for this free event now

First national Innovation Showcase on Tuesday 2^nd December 2014 in the Convention Centre Dublin - Register Now for the Free event 
 
Damien English T.D. Minister for Skills, Research & Innovation issues an invitation to companies in Ireland that want to find out about collaborative research, development and innovation funding and supports provided by the State.


On Tuesday 2^nd of December 2014 (09.00-15.00) in the Convention Centre Dublin, companies can attend the first national showcase of Ireland’s research, technology expertise and innovation excellence.
The main focus of the event is on the 38 research centres, technology centres and national research institutes and facilities which have received significant support from the State and are delivering solutions for industry in 6 key themes; energy, food, health & medical technologies, ICT, manufacturing & materials and services and business processes.  Company representatives will be able to meet the teams from the research centres and technology centres relevant to their areas of interest.
Issuing the invitation, Minister English said, “Research Centres and technology centres are already delivering excellent scientific research and impactful technologies to industry in Ireland and I am encouraging companies of all sizes to come to the showcase to meet representatives from each of the 38 centres to discuss potential collaborations”.
“In addition to learning about the expertise and resources offered by these centres, companies can also tour the showcase to learn about all State funding and supports for innovation, R&D, Horizon 2020 supports, accessing intellectual property and the resources available in Institutes of Technology” he said.  
I believe this will be a unique and useful opportunity for companies to learn about what is on offer from, and what they can gain from, the wealth of knowledge and expertise that exists within Ireland’s research centres and technology centres”. 
Key speakers at the event include Stefan Lindegaard, an internationally renowned expert on the topic of open innovation and Dr. Nicola Millard, a customer experience futurologist who currently works with BT’s Global Innovation Team.
Following the recent success of the European Space Agency’s Rosetta mission, companies interested in winning contracts to work with ESA should visit the ESA exhibit at the showcase and meet Dr. Brian Shortt, ESTEC, Manager of technology development for the ESA Science Programme and Ms. Kenza Benamar, Head of the SME Unit at ESA.
If you would like to attend this free business event you must register in advance via the event website www.innovationshowcase.ie   
Follow @InnovateIE for more information

For more information on this press release please contact Grace Labanyi, Enterprise Ireland
Tel: +353(0)1 7272746 +353(0)873286404 E: grace.labanyi@enterprise-ireland.com 

I lend my support to the Adoption Bill in the Seanad

Senator Mary Moran has supported the Seanad Adoption Bill 2014 which would seek to provide access to information such as birth certs and other personal records once an adoptee reaches the age of 18. 'I was delighted to support the bill on Wednesday evening as I believe it is an important step for the more than 50,000 adopted people in Ireland.  I received hundreds  of emails over the last number of months  from those whom adoption has touched their lives.  Reading through these emails was very eye opening and I am very grateful to each and every person who contacted, who shared their very personal experience and their frustrations regarding the difficulty in accessing their information--particularly original birth certificates.
'It is important that we support and provide a process within set parameters to those children, women and siblings who are searching for each other and for more information about themselves.  No one should be made to feel like they are wrong or experience unnecessary frustration in the search for their information, essentially their identity. I believe that everyone should have the right to their identity and their medical history.
'Following the cross-party support for the bill in the Seanad it will now be referred to the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Health and Children.'

Speaking in the Seanad on the Adoption (Identity and Information) Bill 2014

Free Event today for Entrepreneurs in Ballymascanlon Hotel Dundalk on the iOTA Programme

 

Success in Ennis for Blackrock Tidy Towns and parish schools.

Congratulations to Blackrock Tidy Towns and St Furseys and St Francis National Schools for their success in the Pride of Place awards in Ennis. Prize winners for the Eco-Tribes initiative.

Speaking in the Seanad on Horizon 2020

Welcome for significant increase of special classes in schools

 

Senator Mary Moran has strongly welcomed the significant increase of special classes in mainstream schools highlighted by the Minister for Education and Skills, Jan O'Sullivan TD today at the NCSE Research Conference.
 
'The NCSE has sanctioned an additional 133 special classes in mainstream schools for 2015 which brings the total number of special classes in mainstream schools to 858.  

This represents a significant increase in the provision of special classes in mainstream schools over the last four years.  In 2010, the total number of special classes was under 500.
'We have maintained a strong level of commitment to the area of special education as evidenced by the significant increases in special classes.  As Seanad Spokesperson on Education, I will continue to work with my colleague, Minister Jan O'Sullivan in the area of special education and impress the importance of continued investment in this area.  I look forward to building on these positive developments in education over the coming months.'

Speaking in the Seanad in the Order of Business on recent protests and the Mairia Cahill issue

New on-line resource to get through common illnesses: Undertheweather.ie

 
- Get Advice and Get Better with undertheweather.ie - 
- New online resource with advice and support to help people through common illnesses - 

 
The Under the Weather campaign and new online support was launched  by the Minister for Health, Leo Varadkar, T.D.  We all need sound advice to give us the confidence and skill we need to take care of ourselves and our families; undertheweather.ie aims to give you that advice. Undertheweather.ie, developed by the HSE in partnership with GPs and pharmacists, offers straightforward advice on how to get through common illnesses without antibiotics.
  The website gives sensible practical information, developed by health professionals, on a range of common conditions like colds, flu, earaches, sore throats and tummy bugs. It tells you how long they should last, what to expect, and what you can do to cope with, and recover from, these illnesses. The site includes a series of videos featuring GPs and Pharmacists who offer their expertise on dealing with these common illnesses, practical remedies, and advice on when to seek help from either a pharmacist or a doctor. 
Research has shown that a lot of people still believe that antibiotics can help to treat common illnesses, like colds, flu, earaches, tummy bugs and rashes. In fact antibiotics are useless against most of these infections, which are caused by viruses, and antibiotics don’t work on viruses. Learning how to manage common illnesses with confidence and common sense is a great life skill and improves our understanding of when we need antibiotics and when we don’t.  It’s something that we learn from our parents, friends, doctors, from our own experience and, more and more, from the internet. Under the Weather has been developed in response to this, to support the public in accessing trusted and reliable health information, developed by the HSE with expert knowledge and advice from GPs and pharmacists.
Speaking at today’s event Minister Varadkar said: “The Under the Weather campaign is about ensuring that we only use antibiotics when we really need them. Using antibiotics when they’re not necessary can cause harmful side effects and is a waste of money, but the biggest risk is that it creates stronger, more resistant infections that can make us very ill.
“Many people’s first instinct, on discovering that their child is ill or if they feel ill themselves, is to search for advice online. Undertheweather.ie is a user-friendly and trustworthy website which gives advice from health professionals on how to look after yourself and your loved ones without using antibiotics, with the added reassurance of knowing when it’s time to look for support from their pharmacist or doctor.” 
Mr. Tony O’Brien, Director General of the Health Service, commented; “The purpose of undertheweather.ie is to build on the work undertaken in previous years to raise awareness of antibiotic resistance but, based on feedback and research, this year we are focusing on self-care and developing the skills we all need to look after ourselves and our loved ones. 

Antibiotic resistance is a global health threat, and one that is being tackled on a range of fronts, in Ireland and internationally.  We need to ensure that we preserve antibiotics for when they are really needed – for everything else, your common cold and nasty cough - the best advice is on undertheweather.ie.” 
 
Dr. Philip Crowley, HSE National Director for Quality and Patient Safety, explained: “Undertheweather.ie is part of our ongoing work to tackle the global threat of overuse of antibiotics, and the fact that antibiotics are becoming less and less effective – known as antimicrobial resistance. The common conditions included in the site are almost always caused by a virus, so an antibiotic is useless in dealing with these illnesses.  We want to support people to know what to do when they are unwell, and when to get advice from a health professional, but also that antibiotics are almost never the answer when it comes to these common complaints.” 
 
GPs have a leading role to play in community prescribing of antibiotics, and Dr. Nuala O’Connor, ICGP Lead for Antimicrobial Resistance, played a leading role in developing undertheweather.ie: ‘This year’s campaign marks a real departure, the simple, easy to read content, videos and advice from GPs and our Pharmacist, represent the health education that goes on in GP surgeries every day.  The only way we will reduce unnecessary prescribing of antibiotics is through medical education, which we are undertaking, and public education to build confidence and reduce demand. We may know there’s no point in taking antibiotics for common viral illnesses, but undertheweather.ie will tell you what you can do, and how you can get better. 
 
Ms. Kathy Maher, President, Irish Pharmacy Union said; ‘Pharmacists provide expert health advice in every community on how to ease the symptoms of common conditions. As well as expert advice, tips and guidance on what over the counter remedies can work for you, your pharmacist will let you know when you should seek advice from your doctor. We’re delighted to be part of the development and promotion of this innovative new resource and to work with doctors and the HSE to reduce unnecessary antibiotic use.” 
Along with practical advice, Under the Weather offers videos from leading Irish GPs, Nuala O’Connor from Cork, Andrew Murphy from NUIG, and Eamonn Shanahan from Kerry who talk about a range of common illnesses affecting babies, children and adults. They provide tips on how to manage your symptoms so you’ll be feeling better as quick as possible and when you should contact your GP. The website also features pharmacist Tom Maher from Duleek Pharmacy in Co. Meath, outlining how the community pharmacist is on hand to deliver advice on over the counter remedies for you and your family. This type of rich digital content; advice from medical professionals, is ideal for the consumer audience and adds to the user friendly feel and accessible content on the site. 
 
Undertheweather.ie will be promoted through radio and online advertising including video on demand (pre-roll on TV players) and through social media over the winter months.  GP surgeries and community pharmacies will display printed leaflets and posters as well as stickers for pharmacy doors, to promote the new online information source. The website is mobile, tablet and desktop friendly and will be a useful companion to anyone who’s feeling under the weather. Visit www.undertheweather.ie for more. 
 
Under the Weather is part of the ongoing Health Service-wide Action on Antibiotics programme, which has been in place since 2011, and supports the public and health professional professionals to take collective action to curb antibiotic resistance in our community and in our health system. 
 
Parallel activities for medical professionals and pharmacists which focus on what they can do to keep antibiotics safe for future generations will take place at a Clinical Professional Development Session in the RCPI on Thursday, 20^th November to mark European Antibiotic Awareness Day.

Friary Youth Club Quiz on Thursday 20 Nov in Byrne's of Hill St

Friary Youth Club fundraiser Table Quiz takes place on Thursday, November 20th, at 8.30pm sharp in Byrne's Pub on Hill Street. A table costs €25 and refreshments will be served on the night.

The Friary Youth Club (FYC), which is made up of over 300 members and 40 volunteer leaders, is a non-profit making organisation which relies heavily on donations and fundraising events such as this to fund it's weekly activities, equipment and leader training in areas such as First Aid and Child Protection. The proceeds of this Quiz will go towards the cost of purchasing a life saving defibrillator for our Youth Centre.

Teachers urged to reconsider strike action

 
Senator Mary Moran today expressed her disappointment that second level teacher unions have announced a proposed strike on Dec 2 over the proposed Junior Certificate reforms.

'In my opinion Minister O' Sullivan has made considerable movement to address the concerns of students, parents and teachers about Junior Cert reform since she became the Minister for Education.

'She has recently agreed to proposals that students will continue to receive a state certificate recognising student achievement after three years in second level education. She has also proposed that as a result of consultation with the relevant parties that a final exam in 3rd year will account for 60% of total mark   While the other 40% will be marked on continuous assessment.

'I believe the Minister has made great efforts to bring a satisfactory resolution and I would urge all sides to continue to negotiate  to ensure that students do not lose out.'

New website launched to help local parents get back to work

Labour has launched a website to promote back to work schemes, particularly the new Family Dividend that is designed to help Co. Louth's unemployed parents. 
 
The website, gettingback2work.ie, goes live next week and provides information on how local parents benefit from the Back to Work Family Dividend if they gain employment.
It was launched by Tánaiste Joan Burton, who introduced the dividend in the Budget to help parents bridge the cost gap of getting back to work. 
 
This includes those who move to self-employment, such as back into the construction sector, and those on One Parent Family Payment. Anyone getting Jobseeker’s Allowance who has dependent children and goes back to work will qualify.
At present, there are 3,167 on One Parent Family Payment in Co. Louth, while there are 12,310 in receipt of Jobseeker’s Allowance.
Speaking following the website’s launch this week, Senator Mary Moran said: “Too many parents in Louth remain unemployed and part of that reason can often be the punitive cost of moving from welfare to work.
“To help curb this, we have introduced the new Back To Work Family Dividend, which allows parents retain their qualified child increase of €29.80 a week per child on a tapered basis over two years.
“This means that over the two years, a family with one child will receive additional support of €2,324 to supplement wages. A family with two children will receive €4,649, those with three children will get €6,973, while those with four or more will get €9,298.
“The new website will be a crucial tool in providing parents in Louth going back to work with information and advice as to how they can benefit from back to work schemes that are out there. The site is extremely user-friendly and its name, gettingback2work.ie, is easy to remember too.  
“Joan Burton has done a huge amount of work in trying to remove welfare traps from the system which disincentivise people from going back to work, and the continued decline in unemployment figures represents the fruits of that labour.
“The Back To Work Family Dividend is one of those steps and I hope it will be a significant help to people in our local community return to work.”
ENDS

Christmas bonus returns for 13,503 Louth pensioners as info drive launched

Some 13,503 pensioners in Louth are to benefit from the payment of the 25% Christmas bonus this December, according to Labour Senator Mary Moran.

The news comes as an information campaign advising elderly people on how the Budget benefits them was launched this week.

It is being co-ordinated by Tanaiste Joan Burton and Labour Minister for Older People, Kathleen Lynch, with the help of their colleagues in the Labour party.

“I am pleased to confirm that approximately 13,503 pensioners in Louth will receive the 25% Christmas bonus next month.

“Christmas can be a time of greater financial strain for people, especially those on fixed incomes, and this payment will offer them some extra leeway with their personal budget ahead of the busy Christmas period. Pensioners, carers, jobseekers and those in receipt of one-parent family payment in the county will benefit from this Christmas bonus.”

The campaign will target 80,000 pensioners nationwide over the next few weeks through a series of information leaflets, local radio interviews and social media activity.  

Moran says: “Sometimes in the aftermath of the Budget, information about certain measures and their impact can get lost in the noise, which is why we have decided to launch an awareness campaign for pensioners. It’s important they have clarity on how exactly the Budget benefits them and Ministers Burton and Lynch will be to the forefront of this effort.  

“Not only will the partial restoration of the Christmas bonus benefit our pensioners, but they will also be helped by an increase in the Living Alone Allowance, from €7.70 to €9 a week. It may be a small increase, but it’s the first increase of its kind since 1996 and underlines how we want to support the elderly in our communities.  

“Meanwhile, a decision to end the 0.6% pension levy this year, and the 0.15% pension levy at the end of 2015, will also provide a boost to pensioners’ incomes.

“The very important Seniors Alert Scheme has also been prioritised. The Budget saw some €133 million secured for investment in community programmes, and this includes the Scheme, which supports the provision of monitored alarms to enable pensioners of limited means to continue to live securely in their homes with confidence.

“Extending free GP care to over 70s is also a work in progress, with our hope being that in 2015, over 2.1 million people will have either a medical card or a GP card, and this includes our extension of GP coverage to the over 70s.

“I would urge anyone looking for further information about how the Budget benefits them to contact my office or to log onto www.labour.ie.”

Jobseekers in Dundalk who get seasonal work assured over welfare payment

Local jobseekers who avail of temporary seasonal work for up to 8 weeks over Christmas should know that their social welfare payment will be immediately reinstated when the period of employment ends.

Labour Senator Mary Moran issued the reminder this week, urging jobseekers to avail of any seasonal jobs that arise in Co. Louth over the holidays. But they said it is hugely important that people are aware there will be no delay in reinstating a Jobseeker’s payment when such employment ends.

Moran says: “It is around this time of year that temporary seasonal work opens up as the Christmas retail rush gets underway. I want to assure people on either Jobseeker’s Benefit or Jobseeker’s Allowance in Co. Louth that, should they take up employment over the holidays, this payment will immediately resume once that employment ends.

“If a person on Jobseeker’s Benefit or Jobseeker’s Allowance receives an offer of seasonal employment over Christmas, all they have to do is contact their local Intreo Centre or social welfare office with the details of the work and their payment will be suspended temporarily.  As soon as the employment finishes, they should again let their social welfare office know about this, and the payment will be immediately reinstated.

“I would also urge local employers who have openings for temporary work over Christmas to let their local social welfare office know of this, and every effort will be made to help them fill their vacancies."

Dundalk Grammar School visit to Leinster House

 Minister Jan O'Sullivan, Senator Mary Moran and Senator Trevor O'Clochartaigh addressing students from Dundalk Grammar School

 Senator Trevor O'Clochartaigh, Minister Jan O'Sullivan and Senator Mary Moran with Mr Paul Brady and students from Dundalk Grammar Schoo
 

  I was delighted to welcome students and teacher, Mr Paul Brady for a visit and tour of Leinster House last week. 
 I was also delighted to facilitate a cross-party discussion panel for the students where they could put questions to TDs and Senators.  
Minister for Education and Skills, Jan O'Sullivan TD attended the discussion and met with students as well.  I believe this is a wonderful opportunity for students to become involved and see how the Houses of Oireachtas work.

Website launched for parents of children with life-limiting illness

 

With Sharon Thompson at the launch of the website
 
A website has been launched to provide parents with greater information and understanding of Palliative Care for children.
 
Launching the first All-Ireland website dedicated to Palliative Care for children, parents were encouraged to find out more about the benefits Palliative Care can bring to both child and family.
 
The Children and Young People Palliative Care website was developed by the All Ireland Institute of Hospice and Palliative Care (AIIHPC) to assist parents, guardians, carers and the wider public in understanding what children’s palliative care is and seeks to filter the wide range of information available on the internet to make it easier to find the right information.

The site is available at www.cypph.com.
 
AIIHPC Director Paddie Blaney said: “The palliative care community, both in the Republic of Ireland and in Northern Ireland recognised the need for a ‘go to’ point that parents, carers and the general public could access to get independent information on a topic which is difficult to talk about or gather information on. The website includes photos, stories and quotes about real children and parents who are or have availed of palliative care services.”
 

Speaking in the Seanad on Statements on Suicide and Mental Health

Speaking in the Seanad on the commemoration of those who died in world conflicts and the recent spate of aggrivated burglaries.

Delighted to welcome staff and students from St Malachy's Girls' School Dundalk to Leinster House

Photos from St. Malachy's Girls' School visit to Leinster House on Wednesday, 5th November.   I have had the pleasure of welcoming many classes and teachers to Leinster House over the last three years.  I was delighted to welcome students from St. Malachy's Girls' School and Principal Bríd Galligan to Leinster House for a visit and tour. 

Are you willing to take the plunge for Special Olympics?

 

 

Are you willing to take the plunge for Special Olympics?
 

Fancy taking a dip into freezing cold water all in the name of charity? Well, The Polar Plunge for Special Olympics will take place on Clogherhead Beach, Saturday 6^th December at 11am. This fun, unique event will help to raise awareness and funds for Special Olympics.
 
Be one of the 100 participants, we are aiming to sign up, to take a dip into freezing cold water. The cold feeling will only be short lived… while the positive impact it will have on Special Olympics athletes will last a lifetime.
 
The cold dip will only take a few minutes and don’t worry we’ll be there with hot drinks and treats to warm you up after…. You’ll enjoy the mince pie all the more after your run into the water. You can wear what you like on the day, but we would encourage fancy dress and there will be a prize for best fancy dress on the day.
 
To find out more, look at previous Polar Plunge photos or register for the Polar Plunge click here or contact marianne.rowan@specialolympics.ie

Improvements in SUSI grant application process

SUSI has announced that 54,000 students have been awarded student grant funding for the current academic year as of Friday last.
 
'We have seen a significant improvement from this point last year when approximately 43,000 students had been awarded their student grant funding.  As of Friday, 54,000 students have received confirmation that they have been awarded a grant and 43,000 students have been paid throughout the month of October.  Over 100,000 applications have been received by SUSI for the 2014/2015 academic year with approximately 40,000 of these being new applications.
 
'The improvements to the student grant application system are very welcome and I look forward to continued progress and efficiencies for students and families applying in the coming years.  It is crucial that the grant system be efficient, customer friendly and informative as applying and awaiting confirmation of a student grant can be stressful.'

Children's Remembrance Event in Cavan on Sunday 16th Nov

 

On Sunday, 16^th November, 2014 at 3pm staff of the maternity and paediatric units of Cavan General Hospital are holding their annual Children’s Remembrance Event in St. Patrick's Pastoral Centre, Cavan town.

Parents and families who have experienced the loss of a baby or child from early miscarriage, stillbirth or neonatal death right through to the teenage years are welcome to attend.  This year's event will be music led with the contemplative and spiritual tones of ‘The Song Sisters’.   

Louise Dempsey, Bereavement Support Nurse, Cavan General said "The loss of a child, be it before or around the time of birth or throughout the childhood years, represents one of the most complex and distressing losses facing a parent.  Families who face this particular type of loss, if unsupported, face any number of physical, emotional, psychological and spiritual challenges.  The aim of this event is to provide a safe and open space for families where they can have some time for quiet contemplation and reflection or be able to speak with other families, or indeed staff members, about their loss.  The comfort they receive from knowing they are not alone is often the mitigating factor in the prevention of prolonged complicated grief reactions." 

Refreshments will be served after the event, when families will have the opportunity to view ‘The Children’s Book of Remembrance’ and have a chat with staff from the hospital and other families.

Symphysiotomy payment scheme details announced

Labour Senator Mary Moran has welcomed the Government announcement  of the details of the Symphysiotomy Payment Scheme with the Payment Scheme commencing on Monday, 10th November for symphysiotomy survivors.
 
'Following the announcement on 1st July that approximately €34m would be made available for an ex-gratia scheme, I have continually conveyed the urgency in announcing this scheme in light of the fact many of the survivors are elderly or suffering from ill-health.
'I am delighted that the viewpoints of the women were sought and involved in the setting up of this scheme which will commence on Monday, 10th November.  I have strongly urged my Government colleagues that the scheme should firstly, be made available urgently and should be simple as well as non-confrontational in accordance with the views expressed by the women.  It is important as well that the women's request for an independent Assessor has been honoured and former High Court Judge Maureen Harding Clark has been appointed in this role to oversee the implementation of the ex-gratia Payment Scheme. There will be three levels of awards--€50,000, €100,000 and €150,000.
 
'Any woman who underwent a surgical symphysiotomy now has the option to consider this Payment Scheme as well as any other course of action they wish to consider.  I have always advocated that each individual woman should have the opportunity to independently choose what is best for their situation.  Anyone who would like further information can contact me and I would be happy to assist them.'

Down Syndrome Ireland &Inclusion Ireland present Blue Teapot production of "Sanctuary" 3rd &4th Dec Liberty Hall

Diabetes Information Evening at Louth County Hospital Dundalk Wed 12th Nov

 

To mark World Diabetes Day, staff from the diabetes department in Louth Hospital Group are hosting a Diabetes Information Evening on Wednesday, 12^th November, 2014.  The event will take place at the Louth County Hospital in Dundalk, Co. Louth at 7pm. 
 
Anyone who has been diagnosed with diabetes or people at risk of developing diabetes is invited to come along to this free event.  Members of the Diabetes Education Team will be available to give advice and information on managing diabetes, in relation to healthy eating, physical activity, foot-care, and pre-pregnancy planning for women with diabetes.  
 
Speaking in advance of the event, Pauline O’ Hanlon, Diabetes Nurse Specialist said, “Diabetes is a significant health problem in Ireland. Based on the latest census information, Diabetes Ireland estimate that during 2011 the total number of people in Ireland in all age groups with type 1 and type 2 diabetes reached 190,000.   Many people may have type 2 diabetes for over seven years without realising it. It's very important to be aware of the risk factors, which include being overweight, having a family history of diabetes, and in relation to women, having a history of gestational diabetes. However, both type 2 and type 1 diabetes can be managed effectively by incorporating a healthy diet and physical activity, monitoring blood glucose, medication and attending for regular follow up with their GP or hospital diabetes clinic." 
 
Due to the rise in obesity, type 2 diabetes is becoming more common in children and young adults, including women of child-bearing age. For women with diabetes, pregnancy carries certain risks for mother and baby. Due to the increased demand, a Pre-Pregnancy Care Clinic has been established in the Louth/Meath Hospital group . Linda Matthews, Diabetes Nurse Specialist, Pre-Pregnancy Care said: "Risks can be reduced with proper healthcare before, during and after pregnancy and the majority of women with type 1, type 2 and gestational diabetes have healthy pregnancies and healthy babies. The Pre-Pregnancy Care Clinic offers women with diabetes specialist advice and support to plan a pregnancy in order to achieve the best possible outcome for mother and baby." 
 

Recognising diabetes 
The onset of type 1 diabetes is often sudden and dramatic and can include symptoms such as:
Abnormal thirst and a dry mouth
Frequent urination
Extreme tiredness/lack of energy
Constant hunger
Sudden weight loss
Slow-healing wounds
Recurrent infections
Blurred vision
The same symptoms that are listed above can also affect people with type 2 diabetes, but usually the symptoms are less obvious. The onset of type 2 diabetes is gradual and therefore hard to detect. Indeed, some people with type 2 diabetes show no obvious symptoms early on. These people are often diagnosed several years later, when various complications are already present.
Risk Factors for developing Type 2 Diabetes 
You are more at risk of developing Type 2 diabetes if you -
Are over 40 years of age
Have a family history of Type 2 Diabetes
Are overweight for your height
Do not take 30 minutes of physical activity daily
Have a history of Gestational Diabetes (Women)
Type 2 diabetes can be prevented 
Diabetes is among the top 10 causes of disability, resulting in life-threatening complications such as heart disease, stroke, lower limb amputations, kidney failure and blindness. All have the potential to reduce the quality of life of people with diabetes and their families. However, many of theses complications can be prevented  by early detection of diabetes, healthy eating, frequent physical activity, medication and regular follow-up with the GP or diabetes clinic.
For people with type 1 diabetes, it is not yet possible to prevent the condition, but  much can be done to prevent or delay diabetes complications. Early detection and a healthy diet, with regular physical activity can lower the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, or delay its onset.