Remarks by UCC President are Arrogant and Elitist
Sinn Féin TD Jonathan O’Brien has hit out at remarks by the President of UCC Dr Michael Murphy, who has claimed that widening access to third level has been at the expense of the education provided to top students.
Deputy O’Brien said:
“The remarks by the President of UCC display a breath-taking arrogance and elitism. He appears to see third level education as existing solely to serve what he calls “the top 2% to 5% of performers” and to dismiss those he would consider weaker students from consideration.”
“He claims that efforts to improve access to higher education have led to declining standards and a flight of top students from the country, without providing a shred of evidence to prove his case.”
“The reality is we need to do more to improve access to further education, not less. Currently the participation rate in third level on the Northside is only 7%. Is Dr Murphy saying people from working class areas of the city should be permanently denied the opportunity to go on to third level?”
“There is certainly an increasing pressure on third level education in Ireland, with student numbers rising at the same time as staff numbers are being reduced. But rather than hit out at disadvantaged students for the failures of the education system, Dr Murphy should be laying the blame where it belongs – on government cutbacks.”
“He might also want to look closer to home. With the highest salary of any university president, at €232,151, perhaps he should show leadership by taking a voluntary pay-cut and ploughing the money saved back into the university.”
For further information or comment contact Jonathan O’Brien TD @ 086-0274142
Thursday, December 22, 2011
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
Cut in Disabled Persons Grant Condemned
Cut in Disabled Persons Grant Condemned
Sinn Féin councillor Fiona Kerins has condemned last night’s decision by Cork City Council to reduce funding for the Disabled Person’s Grant to social housing tenants by 50%.
Cllr Kerins said:
“Last night the council voted to reduce funding for the Disabled Person’s Grant to social housing tenants from €800,000 last year to €400,000 in 2012. This was despite an amendment tabled by Sinn Féin which would have redirected some of the budget currently allocated for plant hire to maintaining the Grant. There is evidence that much of the machinery hired by the council from outside contractors is currently under-utilised. ”
“The Disabled Person’s Grant is a lifeline for many elderly and disabled people in our communities, providing them with financial assistance to adapt their homes in ways that aid mobility and give them a decent standard of living. The council’s decision to impose such a large reduction in the Grant will mean these tenants are denied basic facilities which they need to live with dignity in their homes.”
For further information or comment contact Cllr Fiona Kerins @ 085-1091758
Sinn Féin councillor Fiona Kerins has condemned last night’s decision by Cork City Council to reduce funding for the Disabled Person’s Grant to social housing tenants by 50%.
Cllr Kerins said:
“Last night the council voted to reduce funding for the Disabled Person’s Grant to social housing tenants from €800,000 last year to €400,000 in 2012. This was despite an amendment tabled by Sinn Féin which would have redirected some of the budget currently allocated for plant hire to maintaining the Grant. There is evidence that much of the machinery hired by the council from outside contractors is currently under-utilised. ”
“The Disabled Person’s Grant is a lifeline for many elderly and disabled people in our communities, providing them with financial assistance to adapt their homes in ways that aid mobility and give them a decent standard of living. The council’s decision to impose such a large reduction in the Grant will mean these tenants are denied basic facilities which they need to live with dignity in their homes.”
For further information or comment contact Cllr Fiona Kerins @ 085-1091758
Councillors Fail to Show Leadership – O’Leary
Councillors Fail to Show Leadership – O’Leary
Councillor Chris O’Leary has accused councillors other parties of failing to show leadership after a series of motions to reduce conference expenses and the Lord Mayors’ salary were voted down at the budget meeting last night.
Cllr O’Leary said:
“Councilors from Labour, Fine Gael and Fianna Fail last night repeatedly voted down motions which would have allocated money to areas such as housing maintenance, estate resurfacing and traffic-calming at the expense of payments to public representatives.”
“Sinn Féin motions that would have seen the Lord Mayors’ salary of €114,200 reduced to €35,000, a moratorium on conference expenses, and the €10,000 payments to chairs of SPCs abolished were all voted down.”
“Despite the fact that councillors from all parties lamented the absence of any provision for estate resurfacing in Cork City next year, they also rejected a motion from my colleague Cllr Thomas Gould which would have reallocated €60,000 from conference expenses – just €10,000 per ward – to deal with the worst cases.”
“This shows an appalling lack of leadership from elected representatives in Cork at a time of deep crisis and hardship for many ordinary households. The councillors have shown that given a straight choice, they prefer to maintain an exorbitant salary for the Lord Mayor, conference expenses and other perks of the job rather than put the money into basic services.”
“In particular, that the Labour Party voted en bloc against every motion to reduce conference expenses speaks volumes about how out of touch that party is with the hardships being experienced by working families in Cork.”
For further information or comment contact Cllr Chris O’Leary @ 087-2794307
Councillor Chris O’Leary has accused councillors other parties of failing to show leadership after a series of motions to reduce conference expenses and the Lord Mayors’ salary were voted down at the budget meeting last night.
Cllr O’Leary said:
“Councilors from Labour, Fine Gael and Fianna Fail last night repeatedly voted down motions which would have allocated money to areas such as housing maintenance, estate resurfacing and traffic-calming at the expense of payments to public representatives.”
“Sinn Féin motions that would have seen the Lord Mayors’ salary of €114,200 reduced to €35,000, a moratorium on conference expenses, and the €10,000 payments to chairs of SPCs abolished were all voted down.”
“Despite the fact that councillors from all parties lamented the absence of any provision for estate resurfacing in Cork City next year, they also rejected a motion from my colleague Cllr Thomas Gould which would have reallocated €60,000 from conference expenses – just €10,000 per ward – to deal with the worst cases.”
“This shows an appalling lack of leadership from elected representatives in Cork at a time of deep crisis and hardship for many ordinary households. The councillors have shown that given a straight choice, they prefer to maintain an exorbitant salary for the Lord Mayor, conference expenses and other perks of the job rather than put the money into basic services.”
“In particular, that the Labour Party voted en bloc against every motion to reduce conference expenses speaks volumes about how out of touch that party is with the hardships being experienced by working families in Cork.”
For further information or comment contact Cllr Chris O’Leary @ 087-2794307
Council Support for Vita Cortex Workers
Council Support for Vita Cortex Workers
Cork City Council last night voted unanimously to back a motion declaring solidarity with workers at Vita Cortex.
The motion – proposed by Sinn Féin councillor Chris O’Leary – called on both NAMA and the Minister for Enterprise to use every effort to secure redundancy payments for the workers.
Speaking afterwards, Cllr O’Leary welcomed the council’s backing for the motion:
“There is huge sympathy among the people of Cork with the plight of these workers, laid off a week before Christmas and left without redundancy payments after years of service.”
“I would like to extend my personal sympathy and solidarity to them in their campaign for justice.”
“Whatever the precise legal form of the relationship between Vita Cortex in Cork and Athlone, there is a moral obligation on the company, NAMA, and the Minister for Enterprise to work together to ensure these workers receive the redundancy payments to which they are entitled.”
For further information or comment contact Cllr Chris O’Leary @ 087-2794307
Cork City Council last night voted unanimously to back a motion declaring solidarity with workers at Vita Cortex.
The motion – proposed by Sinn Féin councillor Chris O’Leary – called on both NAMA and the Minister for Enterprise to use every effort to secure redundancy payments for the workers.
Speaking afterwards, Cllr O’Leary welcomed the council’s backing for the motion:
“There is huge sympathy among the people of Cork with the plight of these workers, laid off a week before Christmas and left without redundancy payments after years of service.”
“I would like to extend my personal sympathy and solidarity to them in their campaign for justice.”
“Whatever the precise legal form of the relationship between Vita Cortex in Cork and Athlone, there is a moral obligation on the company, NAMA, and the Minister for Enterprise to work together to ensure these workers receive the redundancy payments to which they are entitled.”
For further information or comment contact Cllr Chris O’Leary @ 087-2794307
Monday, December 19, 2011
Sinn Féin Councillors to Challenge Budget
Sinn Féin Councillors to Challenge Budget
Sinn Féin councillor Chris O’Leary has said the party will be challenging the council’s budget proposals in a range of areas when they come before tonight’s meeting.
Cllr O’Leary – who is also chair of the council’s finance committee – said:
“Councilors have now been notified that the council’s capital programme for 2012-2013 is under review and parts of it may be shelved due to reductions in government funding. This is an alarming development which has serious implications for the authority’s ability to deliver services in the future.”
“We are already facing cuts of up to €12 million in current expenditure, which will hit areas such as housing maintenance, road resurfacing, and the disabled person’s grant.”
“Sinn Féin has identified alternative areas where savings could be made, including expenditure on plant hire, fuel and the rent of office spaces around the city which are currently lying idle. Frontline services should be cut only when every other alternative has been exhausted, and I am not convinced the council has looked at all the other options for savings.”
“We will also be proposing that the Lord Mayors’ salary of €114,200 should be reduced to €35,000, and that there should be a moratorium on conference expenses. This would save €220,000 – but equally importantly it is a way for elected representatives to show leadership and demonstrate solidarity with those who are suffering hardship due to the current economic crisis.”
For further information or comment contact Cllr Chris O’Leary @ 087-2794307
Sinn Féin councillor Chris O’Leary has said the party will be challenging the council’s budget proposals in a range of areas when they come before tonight’s meeting.
Cllr O’Leary – who is also chair of the council’s finance committee – said:
“Councilors have now been notified that the council’s capital programme for 2012-2013 is under review and parts of it may be shelved due to reductions in government funding. This is an alarming development which has serious implications for the authority’s ability to deliver services in the future.”
“We are already facing cuts of up to €12 million in current expenditure, which will hit areas such as housing maintenance, road resurfacing, and the disabled person’s grant.”
“Sinn Féin has identified alternative areas where savings could be made, including expenditure on plant hire, fuel and the rent of office spaces around the city which are currently lying idle. Frontline services should be cut only when every other alternative has been exhausted, and I am not convinced the council has looked at all the other options for savings.”
“We will also be proposing that the Lord Mayors’ salary of €114,200 should be reduced to €35,000, and that there should be a moratorium on conference expenses. This would save €220,000 – but equally importantly it is a way for elected representatives to show leadership and demonstrate solidarity with those who are suffering hardship due to the current economic crisis.”
For further information or comment contact Cllr Chris O’Leary @ 087-2794307
Friday, December 16, 2011
Sinn Féin to Resist Cut in Disabled Persons' Grant-Kerins
Sinn Féin to Resist Cut in Disabled Persons' Grant-Kerins
Sinn Féin councillor Fiona Kerins has criticised proposals by Cork City Council to reduce funding for the Disabled Person’s Grant to social housing tenants by 50%.
Cllr Kerins said:
“The Disabled Person’s Grant is a lifeline for many elderly and disabled people in our communities, providing them with financial assistance to adapt their homes in ways that aid mobility and give them a decent standard of living.”
“In the draft budget, the council is proposing to reduce the funds available for the Disabled Person’s Grant to social housing tenants from €800,000 last year to €400,000 in 2012.”
“This is a massive reduction which will mean elderly and disabled tenants being denied basic facilities which they need to live with dignity in their homes.”
“The proposed cut must be reversed. It is scandalous that the council should be proposing to spend €114,000 on the Lord Mayor’s salary and €145,000 on conference fees while some of the most vulnerable people in our city are treated in this way.”
For further information or comment contact Cllr Fiona Kerins @ 085-1091758
Sinn Féin councillor Fiona Kerins has criticised proposals by Cork City Council to reduce funding for the Disabled Person’s Grant to social housing tenants by 50%.
Cllr Kerins said:
“The Disabled Person’s Grant is a lifeline for many elderly and disabled people in our communities, providing them with financial assistance to adapt their homes in ways that aid mobility and give them a decent standard of living.”
“In the draft budget, the council is proposing to reduce the funds available for the Disabled Person’s Grant to social housing tenants from €800,000 last year to €400,000 in 2012.”
“This is a massive reduction which will mean elderly and disabled tenants being denied basic facilities which they need to live with dignity in their homes.”
“The proposed cut must be reversed. It is scandalous that the council should be proposing to spend €114,000 on the Lord Mayor’s salary and €145,000 on conference fees while some of the most vulnerable people in our city are treated in this way.”
For further information or comment contact Cllr Fiona Kerins @ 085-1091758
Council Must Move Faster to Grit Roads-Nugent
Council Must Move Faster to Grit Roads-Nugent
Sinn Féin councillor Mick Nugent has criticised the slow response by Cork City Council to this morning’s icy road conditions and said it raises questions over how much the council has improved its preparedness after last year’s freezing weather.
Cllr Nugent said:
“As part of the new winter emergency plan introduced after last year’s cold weather, councillors are now getting a daily weather update. But the council has done something as basic as to get gritting trucks out on roads around the city after last night’s freezing temperatures.”
“Many roads and footpaths are extremely treacherous, particularly in areas of the Northside and off the main routes. I have received numerous phone-calls from constituents about the conditions.”
“However, there is little sign of council teams out gritting the roads. Surely after the experience of the last two winters the council should be prepared to move immediately in response to freezing conditions?”
“It is also important, with the weekend coming up, that the council makes roads and paths across the city safe today, and does not wait until Monday.”
For further information or comment contact Cllr Mick Nugent @ 087-6755793
Sinn Féin councillor Mick Nugent has criticised the slow response by Cork City Council to this morning’s icy road conditions and said it raises questions over how much the council has improved its preparedness after last year’s freezing weather.
Cllr Nugent said:
“As part of the new winter emergency plan introduced after last year’s cold weather, councillors are now getting a daily weather update. But the council has done something as basic as to get gritting trucks out on roads around the city after last night’s freezing temperatures.”
“Many roads and footpaths are extremely treacherous, particularly in areas of the Northside and off the main routes. I have received numerous phone-calls from constituents about the conditions.”
“However, there is little sign of council teams out gritting the roads. Surely after the experience of the last two winters the council should be prepared to move immediately in response to freezing conditions?”
“It is also important, with the weekend coming up, that the council makes roads and paths across the city safe today, and does not wait until Monday.”
For further information or comment contact Cllr Mick Nugent @ 087-6755793
Wednesday, December 14, 2011
Council Budget Must Protect Core Services – O’Leary
Council Budget Must Protect Core Services – O’Leary
The Sinn Féin leader on Cork City Council, Chris O’Leary, has said the council’s budget must protect core services, and that there are other areas where savings can be made.
Cllr O’Leary – who is also chair of the council’s finance committee – said:
“Indications are that this year’s budget will involve a cut of up to €12 million in expenditure. While the council can do nothing about cuts in the funding it receives from central government, every effort must be made to protect core services.”
“From the figures we have seen to date, it looks like areas such as housing maintenance, road resurfacing, and staffing are being targeted for cuts. This is simply unacceptable. These areas have taken the brunt of cutbacks in recent years and cannot be squeezed any further.”
“The fact is there are other areas in the council’s budget where we could make savings without reducing services to the public.”
“Currently the council leases office space in buildings across the city. Many of these properties are vacant due to staff reductions, and there is also spare office capacity in City Hall. For example, two floors of Abbeycourt House, leased by the council for €50,000 a year, are currently unused. The council should audit its properties and sublet those which are not in use if it cannot get out of the lease.”
“In the past year €4.5 million was spent on machinery, much of it on plant hire. Frequently the council hires staff along with machinery from contractors, even though it has qualified staff of its own. The local authority could follow the example of private companies which have cut their costs by purchasing machinery rather than hiring it. This would pay for itself within 2-3 years and reduce overheads.”
“The Lord Mayors’ salary of €114,200 should be reduced to €35,000, close to the average wage. In the current climate there is no excuse for paying someone this kind of money to fulfil a purely honorary position. The payment of €6,000 to the Deputy Lord Mayor should be abolished.”
“€145,700 is earmarked for conference expenses in the draft budget. Sinn Féin believes there should be a complete moratorium on conference payments in the current economic climate.”
“Councillors who are chairs of Strategic Policy Committees receive an additional payment of €10,000 for attending four committee meetings per year. Abolition of these payments would save €200,000 over a full council term of five years.”
“Plainly there are areas of council expenditure which could be trimmed without hitting services to the public. Sinn Féin will be putting forward alternative proposals to the council at Monday’s meeting which would ensure the cuts fall where they have the least impact on families and communities who are already struggling to get by.”
For further information or comment contact Cllr Chris O’Leary @ 087-2794307
The Sinn Féin leader on Cork City Council, Chris O’Leary, has said the council’s budget must protect core services, and that there are other areas where savings can be made.
Cllr O’Leary – who is also chair of the council’s finance committee – said:
“Indications are that this year’s budget will involve a cut of up to €12 million in expenditure. While the council can do nothing about cuts in the funding it receives from central government, every effort must be made to protect core services.”
“From the figures we have seen to date, it looks like areas such as housing maintenance, road resurfacing, and staffing are being targeted for cuts. This is simply unacceptable. These areas have taken the brunt of cutbacks in recent years and cannot be squeezed any further.”
“The fact is there are other areas in the council’s budget where we could make savings without reducing services to the public.”
“Currently the council leases office space in buildings across the city. Many of these properties are vacant due to staff reductions, and there is also spare office capacity in City Hall. For example, two floors of Abbeycourt House, leased by the council for €50,000 a year, are currently unused. The council should audit its properties and sublet those which are not in use if it cannot get out of the lease.”
“In the past year €4.5 million was spent on machinery, much of it on plant hire. Frequently the council hires staff along with machinery from contractors, even though it has qualified staff of its own. The local authority could follow the example of private companies which have cut their costs by purchasing machinery rather than hiring it. This would pay for itself within 2-3 years and reduce overheads.”
“The Lord Mayors’ salary of €114,200 should be reduced to €35,000, close to the average wage. In the current climate there is no excuse for paying someone this kind of money to fulfil a purely honorary position. The payment of €6,000 to the Deputy Lord Mayor should be abolished.”
“€145,700 is earmarked for conference expenses in the draft budget. Sinn Féin believes there should be a complete moratorium on conference payments in the current economic climate.”
“Councillors who are chairs of Strategic Policy Committees receive an additional payment of €10,000 for attending four committee meetings per year. Abolition of these payments would save €200,000 over a full council term of five years.”
“Plainly there are areas of council expenditure which could be trimmed without hitting services to the public. Sinn Féin will be putting forward alternative proposals to the council at Monday’s meeting which would ensure the cuts fall where they have the least impact on families and communities who are already struggling to get by.”
For further information or comment contact Cllr Chris O’Leary @ 087-2794307
The Sinn Féin leader on Cork City Council, Chris O’Leary, has said the council’s budget must protect core services, and that there are other areas where savings can be made.
Cllr O’Leary – who is also chair of the council’s finance committee – said:
“Indications are that this year’s budget will involve a cut of up to €12 million in expenditure. While the council can do nothing about cuts in the funding it receives from central government, every effort must be made to protect core services.”
“From the figures we have seen to date, it looks like areas such as housing maintenance, road resurfacing, and staffing are being targeted for cuts. This is simply unacceptable. These areas have taken the brunt of cutbacks in recent years and cannot be squeezed any further.”
“The fact is there are other areas in the council’s budget where we could make savings without reducing services to the public.”
“Currently the council leases office space in buildings across the city. Many of these properties are vacant due to staff reductions, and there is also spare office capacity in City Hall. For example, two floors of Abbeycourt House, leased by the council for €50,000 a year, are currently unused. The council should audit its properties and sublet those which are not in use if it cannot get out of the lease.”
“In the past year €4.5 million was spent on machinery, much of it on plant hire. Frequently the council hires staff along with machinery from contractors, even though it has qualified staff of its own. The local authority could follow the example of private companies which have cut their costs by purchasing machinery rather than hiring it. This would pay for itself within 2-3 years and reduce overheads.”
“The Lord Mayors’ salary of €114,200 should be reduced to €35,000, close to the average wage. In the current climate there is no excuse for paying someone this kind of money to fulfil a purely honorary position. The payment of €6,000 to the Deputy Lord Mayor should be abolished.”
“€145,700 is earmarked for conference expenses in the draft budget. Sinn Féin believes there should be a complete moratorium on conference payments in the current economic climate.”
“Councillors who are chairs of Strategic Policy Committees receive an additional payment of €10,000 for attending four committee meetings per year. Abolition of these payments would save €200,000 over a full council term of five years.”
“Plainly there are areas of council expenditure which could be trimmed without hitting services to the public. Sinn Féin will be putting forward alternative proposals to the council at Monday’s meeting which would ensure the cuts fall where they have the least impact on families and communities who are already struggling to get by.”
For further information or comment contact Cllr Chris O’Leary @ 087-2794307
The Sinn Féin leader on Cork City Council, Chris O’Leary, has said the council’s budget must protect core services, and that there are other areas where savings can be made.
Cllr O’Leary – who is also chair of the council’s finance committee – said:
“Indications are that this year’s budget will involve a cut of up to €12 million in expenditure. While the council can do nothing about cuts in the funding it receives from central government, every effort must be made to protect core services.”
“From the figures we have seen to date, it looks like areas such as housing maintenance, road resurfacing, and staffing are being targeted for cuts. This is simply unacceptable. These areas have taken the brunt of cutbacks in recent years and cannot be squeezed any further.”
“The fact is there are other areas in the council’s budget where we could make savings without reducing services to the public.”
“Currently the council leases office space in buildings across the city. Many of these properties are vacant due to staff reductions, and there is also spare office capacity in City Hall. For example, two floors of Abbeycourt House, leased by the council for €50,000 a year, are currently unused. The council should audit its properties and sublet those which are not in use if it cannot get out of the lease.”
“In the past year €4.5 million was spent on machinery, much of it on plant hire. Frequently the council hires staff along with machinery from contractors, even though it has qualified staff of its own. The local authority could follow the example of private companies which have cut their costs by purchasing machinery rather than hiring it. This would pay for itself within 2-3 years and reduce overheads.”
“The Lord Mayors’ salary of €114,200 should be reduced to €35,000, close to the average wage. In the current climate there is no excuse for paying someone this kind of money to fulfil a purely honorary position. The payment of €6,000 to the Deputy Lord Mayor should be abolished.”
“€145,700 is earmarked for conference expenses in the draft budget. Sinn Féin believes there should be a complete moratorium on conference payments in the current economic climate.”
“Councillors who are chairs of Strategic Policy Committees receive an additional payment of €10,000 for attending four committee meetings per year. Abolition of these payments would save €200,000 over a full council term of five years.”
“Plainly there are areas of council expenditure which could be trimmed without hitting services to the public. Sinn Féin will be putting forward alternative proposals to the council at Monday’s meeting which would ensure the cuts fall where they have the least impact on families and communities who are already struggling to get by.”
For further information or comment contact Cllr Chris O’Leary @ 087-2794307
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
SF Councillor Questions Revised Housing Figures-Nugent
SF Councillor Questions Revised Housing Figures-Nugent
Sinn Féin councillor Mick Nugent has questioned the methods used by the council to cut nearly 1,000 people from the city’s housing list.
Cllr Nugent said:
“The council simply posted a form to everybody on the list, and removed their name if they did not return it. While undoubtedly some on the housing list were no longer seeking social housing, others may simply have failed to return the form on time because it was sent to the wrong address, because they did not receive it, or due to literacy or other personal issues.”
“I have no doubt that many people in genuine need of housing have been removed from the list in a very cavalier fashion.”
“Nonetheless, the revised figures show graphically the scale of housing need in Cork City. There are 8,000 people still on the housing list after this revision. Furthermore, officials informed the council last night that while 3,000 of these are in receipt of rent supplement, 5,000 are not. This means 5,000 people in Cork City who are eligible for social housing, actively seeking it, and are not currently accommodated in the rented sector.”
“Meeting the housing needs of these people must become a priority for the council.”
For further information or comment contact Cllr Mick Nugent @ 087-6755793
Sinn Féin councillor Mick Nugent has questioned the methods used by the council to cut nearly 1,000 people from the city’s housing list.
Cllr Nugent said:
“The council simply posted a form to everybody on the list, and removed their name if they did not return it. While undoubtedly some on the housing list were no longer seeking social housing, others may simply have failed to return the form on time because it was sent to the wrong address, because they did not receive it, or due to literacy or other personal issues.”
“I have no doubt that many people in genuine need of housing have been removed from the list in a very cavalier fashion.”
“Nonetheless, the revised figures show graphically the scale of housing need in Cork City. There are 8,000 people still on the housing list after this revision. Furthermore, officials informed the council last night that while 3,000 of these are in receipt of rent supplement, 5,000 are not. This means 5,000 people in Cork City who are eligible for social housing, actively seeking it, and are not currently accommodated in the rented sector.”
“Meeting the housing needs of these people must become a priority for the council.”
For further information or comment contact Cllr Mick Nugent @ 087-6755793
O’Brien Seeks Face-to-Face Meeting with Minister over School Cuts
O’Brien Seeks Face-to-Face Meeting with Minister over School Cuts
Jonathan O’Brien TD has sought a face-to-face meeting with the Minister for Education, Ruairi Quinn, over cutbacks which will see class sizes double in some Northside Schools.
Deputy O’Brien said:
“Yesterday I met with the principals of primary schools across the Northside who will be affected by the education cuts in this budget. They informed me that approximately forty teachers will be lost by 12 primary schools in disadvantaged areas of Cork’s Northside.”
“In some schools the cuts will result in pupil-teacher ratios increasing from 15:1 to 22:1 in the junior section. What this will mean in practice is that classes will be doubled up and children will get half the amount of attention.”
“All these schools have been designated DEIS schools, due to the high number of pupils from disadvantaged backgrounds they enrol. Over the past number of years they have done huge work in improving educational outcomes for these children, through the personal relationship pupils have with their teachers in smaller classes and small group work. Experience has shown this has made a real difference to educational outcomes, especially in basic literacy and maths.”
“Now all this progress is being put at risk. Increased class sizes will mean less time is spent by the teacher with each individual pupil. Factor in that these schools have already been hit hard by cuts in SNAs and other support services and the reality is the educational chances of children on Cork’s Northside are being seriously undermined.”
“While we live in straightened times, the government still has choices. It could have implemented Labour’s declared policy during the general election – a new 48% tax rate on individual incomes over €100,000 – rather than cutting teachers in disadvantaged schools. Unfortunately, the coalition has chosen to make the vulnerable in our society take the brunt of the pain.”
“I will be raising this issue in the Dail at 5pm today and have requested a face-to-face meeting with Minister Quinn to underline the importance of reversing these cutbacks now and protecting the future education of children in Cork.”
For further information or comment contact Jonathan O’Brien TD @ 086-0274142
Jonathan O’Brien TD has sought a face-to-face meeting with the Minister for Education, Ruairi Quinn, over cutbacks which will see class sizes double in some Northside Schools.
Deputy O’Brien said:
“Yesterday I met with the principals of primary schools across the Northside who will be affected by the education cuts in this budget. They informed me that approximately forty teachers will be lost by 12 primary schools in disadvantaged areas of Cork’s Northside.”
“In some schools the cuts will result in pupil-teacher ratios increasing from 15:1 to 22:1 in the junior section. What this will mean in practice is that classes will be doubled up and children will get half the amount of attention.”
“All these schools have been designated DEIS schools, due to the high number of pupils from disadvantaged backgrounds they enrol. Over the past number of years they have done huge work in improving educational outcomes for these children, through the personal relationship pupils have with their teachers in smaller classes and small group work. Experience has shown this has made a real difference to educational outcomes, especially in basic literacy and maths.”
“Now all this progress is being put at risk. Increased class sizes will mean less time is spent by the teacher with each individual pupil. Factor in that these schools have already been hit hard by cuts in SNAs and other support services and the reality is the educational chances of children on Cork’s Northside are being seriously undermined.”
“While we live in straightened times, the government still has choices. It could have implemented Labour’s declared policy during the general election – a new 48% tax rate on individual incomes over €100,000 – rather than cutting teachers in disadvantaged schools. Unfortunately, the coalition has chosen to make the vulnerable in our society take the brunt of the pain.”
“I will be raising this issue in the Dail at 5pm today and have requested a face-to-face meeting with Minister Quinn to underline the importance of reversing these cutbacks now and protecting the future education of children in Cork.”
For further information or comment contact Jonathan O’Brien TD @ 086-0274142
Cuts to Southside Schools will Hurt Children’s Education-O'Leary
Cuts to Southside Schools will Hurt Children’s Education-O'Leary
Sinn Féin councillor Chris O’Leary has hit out at cutbacks which will see 9 teachers lost by DEIS schools in the Mahon/Blackrock area of the city. These cutbacks will have a direct and negative impact on the education of disadvantaged children.
Cllr O’Leary said:
“Due to cutbacks in this budget, just three schools – Scoil Ursula, Blackrock; Gaelscoil Mhachan; and Scoil na Croise Naofa, Mahon – will lose 9 teachers between them. A similar pattern is occurring in other schools across the city.”
“These three schools have been designated DEIS schools, due to the high number of pupils from disadvantaged backgrounds they enrol. Over the past number of years they have done huge work in improving educational outcomes for these children, through smaller classes and focused attention on individual pupils.”
“Now all this progress is being put at risk. The loss of teachers at these and other DEIS schools across the city will lead to an increase in class sizes. That will mean less time spent by the teacher with each individual pupil. Factor in the reality that these schools have already been hit hard by cuts in SNAs and other support services and the reality is the educational chances of disadvantaged children in Cork are being seriously undermined.”
“It is ironic that this should be happening under a Labour Minister for Education. But this is a government which is currently paying billions of foreign bondholders in Anglo-Irish Bank. These cuts did not have to happen. Sinn Féin put forward a detailed and costed pre-budget submission which would have closed the deficit by €3.6 billion without hitting front-line services. Unfortunately, the coalition have chosen to make the vulnerable in our society take the brunt of the pain.”
“It is still not too late to reverse these cutbacks and Sinn Féin will support school principals and parents as they campaign to do so.”
For further information or comment contact Cllr Chris O’Leary @ 087-2794307
Sinn Féin councillor Chris O’Leary has hit out at cutbacks which will see 9 teachers lost by DEIS schools in the Mahon/Blackrock area of the city. These cutbacks will have a direct and negative impact on the education of disadvantaged children.
Cllr O’Leary said:
“Due to cutbacks in this budget, just three schools – Scoil Ursula, Blackrock; Gaelscoil Mhachan; and Scoil na Croise Naofa, Mahon – will lose 9 teachers between them. A similar pattern is occurring in other schools across the city.”
“These three schools have been designated DEIS schools, due to the high number of pupils from disadvantaged backgrounds they enrol. Over the past number of years they have done huge work in improving educational outcomes for these children, through smaller classes and focused attention on individual pupils.”
“Now all this progress is being put at risk. The loss of teachers at these and other DEIS schools across the city will lead to an increase in class sizes. That will mean less time spent by the teacher with each individual pupil. Factor in the reality that these schools have already been hit hard by cuts in SNAs and other support services and the reality is the educational chances of disadvantaged children in Cork are being seriously undermined.”
“It is ironic that this should be happening under a Labour Minister for Education. But this is a government which is currently paying billions of foreign bondholders in Anglo-Irish Bank. These cuts did not have to happen. Sinn Féin put forward a detailed and costed pre-budget submission which would have closed the deficit by €3.6 billion without hitting front-line services. Unfortunately, the coalition have chosen to make the vulnerable in our society take the brunt of the pain.”
“It is still not too late to reverse these cutbacks and Sinn Féin will support school principals and parents as they campaign to do so.”
For further information or comment contact Cllr Chris O’Leary @ 087-2794307
Monday, December 5, 2011
Budget Protest at Patrick’s Bridge, 5pm Tomorrow
Budget Protest at Patrick’s Bridge, 5pm Tomorrow
Cllr Chris O’Leary has called on individuals and groups opposed to the budget to support a protest taking place at 5pm tomorrow at Patrick’s Bridge.
Cllr O’Leary said:
“Today’s budget announcements show that Labour and Fine Gael are taking a page out of Fianna Fail’s copybook and targeting families, social welfare recipients and public sector workers as they continue with the failed policies of cutbacks and austerity.”
“At the same time, the handover of billions of Euros of taxpayers’ money to international bondholders continues.”
“Tomorrow’s protest will take place at 5pm at Patrick’s Bridge. We invite members of the public, as well as representatives of all parties and organisation opposed to the cuts, to demonstrate their opposition to the budget and the payment of further public money to the bondholders.”
For further information or comment contact Cllr Chris O’Leary @ 087-2794307
Cllr Chris O’Leary has called on individuals and groups opposed to the budget to support a protest taking place at 5pm tomorrow at Patrick’s Bridge.
Cllr O’Leary said:
“Today’s budget announcements show that Labour and Fine Gael are taking a page out of Fianna Fail’s copybook and targeting families, social welfare recipients and public sector workers as they continue with the failed policies of cutbacks and austerity.”
“At the same time, the handover of billions of Euros of taxpayers’ money to international bondholders continues.”
“Tomorrow’s protest will take place at 5pm at Patrick’s Bridge. We invite members of the public, as well as representatives of all parties and organisation opposed to the cuts, to demonstrate their opposition to the budget and the payment of further public money to the bondholders.”
For further information or comment contact Cllr Chris O’Leary @ 087-2794307
Friday, December 2, 2011
Labour U-Turn on Bank Guarantee
Labour U-Turn on Bank Guarantee
Sinn Féin Cllr Chris O’Leary has accused the Labour Party of executing a massive u-turn by voting in favour extending the bank guarantee.
Councillor O’Leary said:
“The Labour Party has executed a massive u-turn, abandoning its opposition to the bank guarantee and writing a further blank cheque for the banks.”
“Yesterday’s vote means the Irish taxpayer will be saddled with further unknown liabilities on top of the existing guarantee of €100 billion.”
“Given the risk to the taxpayer involved in the bank guarantee this must be the single biggest and most expensive political u-turn in Dáil history. Labour TDs trooped into the lobbies to give a further 12 months of life to what is universally regarded as the most costly and the most damaging decision ever taken by an Irish government. They did so at a time when uncertainty and volatility in the banking system is increasing and with it the level of risk to the taxpayer.”
“The scale of this U-turn is truly breath-taking, given the depth of opposition to the bank guarantee previously expressed by Labour party.”
“Unlike others, Sinn Féin will remain true to our principles and continue to oppose the bank guarantee.”
NOTE - Sinn Féin will be holding a petition signing tomorrow (Saturday) at 1pm in Daunt Square opposing the continued handover of money to bondholders.
For further information or comment contact Cllr Chris O’Leary @ 087-2794307
Sinn Féin Cllr Chris O’Leary has accused the Labour Party of executing a massive u-turn by voting in favour extending the bank guarantee.
Councillor O’Leary said:
“The Labour Party has executed a massive u-turn, abandoning its opposition to the bank guarantee and writing a further blank cheque for the banks.”
“Yesterday’s vote means the Irish taxpayer will be saddled with further unknown liabilities on top of the existing guarantee of €100 billion.”
“Given the risk to the taxpayer involved in the bank guarantee this must be the single biggest and most expensive political u-turn in Dáil history. Labour TDs trooped into the lobbies to give a further 12 months of life to what is universally regarded as the most costly and the most damaging decision ever taken by an Irish government. They did so at a time when uncertainty and volatility in the banking system is increasing and with it the level of risk to the taxpayer.”
“The scale of this U-turn is truly breath-taking, given the depth of opposition to the bank guarantee previously expressed by Labour party.”
“Unlike others, Sinn Féin will remain true to our principles and continue to oppose the bank guarantee.”
NOTE - Sinn Féin will be holding a petition signing tomorrow (Saturday) at 1pm in Daunt Square opposing the continued handover of money to bondholders.
For further information or comment contact Cllr Chris O’Leary @ 087-2794307
Labour U-Turn on Bank Guarantee
Labour U-Turn on Bank Guarantee
Sinn Féin Cllr Chris O’Leary has accused the Labour Party of executing a massive u-turn by voting in favour extending the bank guarantee.
Councillor O’Leary said:
“The Labour Party has executed a massive u-turn, abandoning its opposition to the bank guarantee and writing a further blank cheque for the banks.”
“Yesterday’s vote means the Irish taxpayer will be saddled with further unknown liabilities on top of the existing guarantee of €100 billion.”
“Given the risk to the taxpayer involved in the bank guarantee this must be the single biggest and most expensive political u-turn in Dáil history. Labour TDs trooped into the lobbies to give a further 12 months of life to what is universally regarded as the most costly and the most damaging decision ever taken by an Irish government. They did so at a time when uncertainty and volatility in the banking system is increasing and with it the level of risk to the taxpayer.”
“The scale of this U-turn is truly breath-taking, given the depth of opposition to the bank guarantee previously expressed by Labour party.”
“Unlike others, Sinn Féin will remain true to our principles and continue to oppose the bank guarantee.”
NOTE - Sinn Féin will be holding a petition signing tomorrow (Saturday) at 1pm in Daunt Square opposing the continued handover of money to bondholders.
For further information or comment contact Cllr Chris O’Leary @ 087-2794307
Sinn Féin Cllr Chris O’Leary has accused the Labour Party of executing a massive u-turn by voting in favour extending the bank guarantee.
Councillor O’Leary said:
“The Labour Party has executed a massive u-turn, abandoning its opposition to the bank guarantee and writing a further blank cheque for the banks.”
“Yesterday’s vote means the Irish taxpayer will be saddled with further unknown liabilities on top of the existing guarantee of €100 billion.”
“Given the risk to the taxpayer involved in the bank guarantee this must be the single biggest and most expensive political u-turn in Dáil history. Labour TDs trooped into the lobbies to give a further 12 months of life to what is universally regarded as the most costly and the most damaging decision ever taken by an Irish government. They did so at a time when uncertainty and volatility in the banking system is increasing and with it the level of risk to the taxpayer.”
“The scale of this U-turn is truly breath-taking, given the depth of opposition to the bank guarantee previously expressed by Labour party.”
“Unlike others, Sinn Féin will remain true to our principles and continue to oppose the bank guarantee.”
NOTE - Sinn Féin will be holding a petition signing tomorrow (Saturday) at 1pm in Daunt Square opposing the continued handover of money to bondholders.
For further information or comment contact Cllr Chris O’Leary @ 087-2794307
Labour U-Turn on Bank Guarantee
Labour U-Turn on Bank Guarantee
Sinn Féin Cllr Chris O’Leary has accused the Labour Party of executing a massive u-turn by voting in favour extending the bank guarantee.
Councillor O’Leary said:
“The Labour Party has executed a massive u-turn, abandoning its opposition to the bank guarantee and writing a further blank cheque for the banks.”
“Yesterday’s vote means the Irish taxpayer will be saddled with further unknown liabilities on top of the existing guarantee of €100 billion.”
“Given the risk to the taxpayer involved in the bank guarantee this must be the single biggest and most expensive political u-turn in Dáil history. Labour TDs trooped into the lobbies to give a further 12 months of life to what is universally regarded as the most costly and the most damaging decision ever taken by an Irish government. They did so at a time when uncertainty and volatility in the banking system is increasing and with it the level of risk to the taxpayer.”
“The scale of this U-turn is truly breath-taking, given the depth of opposition to the bank guarantee previously expressed by Labour party.”
“Unlike others, Sinn Féin will remain true to our principles and continue to oppose the bank guarantee.”
NOTE - Sinn Féin will be holding a petition signing tomorrow (Saturday) at 1pm in Daunt Square opposing the continued handover of money to bondholders.
For further information or comment contact Cllr Chris O’Leary @ 087-2794307
Sinn Féin Cllr Chris O’Leary has accused the Labour Party of executing a massive u-turn by voting in favour extending the bank guarantee.
Councillor O’Leary said:
“The Labour Party has executed a massive u-turn, abandoning its opposition to the bank guarantee and writing a further blank cheque for the banks.”
“Yesterday’s vote means the Irish taxpayer will be saddled with further unknown liabilities on top of the existing guarantee of €100 billion.”
“Given the risk to the taxpayer involved in the bank guarantee this must be the single biggest and most expensive political u-turn in Dáil history. Labour TDs trooped into the lobbies to give a further 12 months of life to what is universally regarded as the most costly and the most damaging decision ever taken by an Irish government. They did so at a time when uncertainty and volatility in the banking system is increasing and with it the level of risk to the taxpayer.”
“The scale of this U-turn is truly breath-taking, given the depth of opposition to the bank guarantee previously expressed by Labour party.”
“Unlike others, Sinn Féin will remain true to our principles and continue to oppose the bank guarantee.”
NOTE - Sinn Féin will be holding a petition signing tomorrow (Saturday) at 1pm in Daunt Square opposing the continued handover of money to bondholders.
For further information or comment contact Cllr Chris O’Leary @ 087-2794307
Labour U-Turn on Bank Guarantee
Labour U-Turn on Bank Guarantee
Sinn Féin Cllr Chris O’Leary has accused the Labour Party of executing a massive u-turn by voting in favour extending the bank guarantee.
Councillor O’Leary said:
“The Labour Party has executed a massive u-turn, abandoning its opposition to the bank guarantee and writing a further blank cheque for the banks.”
“Yesterday’s vote means the Irish taxpayer will be saddled with further unknown liabilities on top of the existing guarantee of €100 billion.”
“Given the risk to the taxpayer involved in the bank guarantee this must be the single biggest and most expensive political u-turn in Dáil history. Labour TDs trooped into the lobbies to give a further 12 months of life to what is universally regarded as the most costly and the most damaging decision ever taken by an Irish government. They did so at a time when uncertainty and volatility in the banking system is increasing and with it the level of risk to the taxpayer.”
“The scale of this U-turn is truly breath-taking, given the depth of opposition to the bank guarantee previously expressed by Labour party.”
“Unlike others, Sinn Féin will remain true to our principles and continue to oppose the bank guarantee.”
NOTE - Sinn Féin will be holding a petition signing tomorrow (Saturday) at 1pm in Daunt Square opposing the continued handover of money to bondholders.
For further information or comment contact Cllr Chris O’Leary @ 087-2794307
Sinn Féin Cllr Chris O’Leary has accused the Labour Party of executing a massive u-turn by voting in favour extending the bank guarantee.
Councillor O’Leary said:
“The Labour Party has executed a massive u-turn, abandoning its opposition to the bank guarantee and writing a further blank cheque for the banks.”
“Yesterday’s vote means the Irish taxpayer will be saddled with further unknown liabilities on top of the existing guarantee of €100 billion.”
“Given the risk to the taxpayer involved in the bank guarantee this must be the single biggest and most expensive political u-turn in Dáil history. Labour TDs trooped into the lobbies to give a further 12 months of life to what is universally regarded as the most costly and the most damaging decision ever taken by an Irish government. They did so at a time when uncertainty and volatility in the banking system is increasing and with it the level of risk to the taxpayer.”
“The scale of this U-turn is truly breath-taking, given the depth of opposition to the bank guarantee previously expressed by Labour party.”
“Unlike others, Sinn Féin will remain true to our principles and continue to oppose the bank guarantee.”
NOTE - Sinn Féin will be holding a petition signing tomorrow (Saturday) at 1pm in Daunt Square opposing the continued handover of money to bondholders.
For further information or comment contact Cllr Chris O’Leary @ 087-2794307
Labour U-Turn on Bank Guarantee
Labour U-Turn on Bank Guarantee
Sinn Féin Cllr Chris O’Leary has accused the Labour Party of executing a massive u-turn by voting in favour extending the bank guarantee.
Councillor O’Leary said:
“The Labour Party has executed a massive u-turn, abandoning its opposition to the bank guarantee and writing a further blank cheque for the banks.”
“Yesterday’s vote means the Irish taxpayer will be saddled with further unknown liabilities on top of the existing guarantee of €100 billion.”
“Given the risk to the taxpayer involved in the bank guarantee this must be the single biggest and most expensive political u-turn in Dáil history. Labour TDs trooped into the lobbies to give a further 12 months of life to what is universally regarded as the most costly and the most damaging decision ever taken by an Irish government. They did so at a time when uncertainty and volatility in the banking system is increasing and with it the level of risk to the taxpayer.”
“The scale of this U-turn is truly breath-taking, given the depth of opposition to the bank guarantee previously expressed by Labour party.”
“Unlike others, Sinn Féin will remain true to our principles and continue to oppose the bank guarantee.”
NOTE - Sinn Féin will be holding a petition signing tomorrow (Saturday) at 1pm in Daunt Square opposing the continued handover of money to bondholders.
For further information or comment contact Cllr Chris O’Leary @ 087-2794307
Sinn Féin Cllr Chris O’Leary has accused the Labour Party of executing a massive u-turn by voting in favour extending the bank guarantee.
Councillor O’Leary said:
“The Labour Party has executed a massive u-turn, abandoning its opposition to the bank guarantee and writing a further blank cheque for the banks.”
“Yesterday’s vote means the Irish taxpayer will be saddled with further unknown liabilities on top of the existing guarantee of €100 billion.”
“Given the risk to the taxpayer involved in the bank guarantee this must be the single biggest and most expensive political u-turn in Dáil history. Labour TDs trooped into the lobbies to give a further 12 months of life to what is universally regarded as the most costly and the most damaging decision ever taken by an Irish government. They did so at a time when uncertainty and volatility in the banking system is increasing and with it the level of risk to the taxpayer.”
“The scale of this U-turn is truly breath-taking, given the depth of opposition to the bank guarantee previously expressed by Labour party.”
“Unlike others, Sinn Féin will remain true to our principles and continue to oppose the bank guarantee.”
NOTE - Sinn Féin will be holding a petition signing tomorrow (Saturday) at 1pm in Daunt Square opposing the continued handover of money to bondholders.
For further information or comment contact Cllr Chris O’Leary @ 087-2794307
Thursday, December 1, 2011
Labour TDs Vote against Protecting Child Benefit
Labour TDs Vote against Protecting Child Benefit
Labour and Fine Gael TDs last night voted down a Sinn Féin motion ruling out any cut in Child Benefit in the upcoming budget.
Speaking afterwards, Sinn Féin’s Jonathan O’Brien said:
“This vote has shown that Labour and Fine Gael are preparing to break commitments given in their own programme for government not to cut rates of Child Benefit.”
“ 'Protect Child Benefit – Vote Labour' declared the Labour Party posters before the General Election.”
“ 'We will maintain social welfare rates' declares the Fine Gael/Labour Programme for Government.”
“All that the Sinn Féin motion asked was that the government live up to its own promises. Yet it seems this is too much to look for from Labour and Fine Gael.”
“Yesterday we saw the release of figures showing a rise in the Live Register to 448,600. We have nearly 450,000 people unemployed, many of them with young children, many of them newly jobless and with mortgages to pay, and yet this Government is actually contemplating cutting Child Benefit.
“Fine Gael and Labour must live up to their election promises and protect the most vulnerable in our society – our children.”
For further information or comment contact Deputy Jonathan O’Brien @ 085-2133907
Labour and Fine Gael TDs last night voted down a Sinn Féin motion ruling out any cut in Child Benefit in the upcoming budget.
Speaking afterwards, Sinn Féin’s Jonathan O’Brien said:
“This vote has shown that Labour and Fine Gael are preparing to break commitments given in their own programme for government not to cut rates of Child Benefit.”
“ 'Protect Child Benefit – Vote Labour' declared the Labour Party posters before the General Election.”
“ 'We will maintain social welfare rates' declares the Fine Gael/Labour Programme for Government.”
“All that the Sinn Féin motion asked was that the government live up to its own promises. Yet it seems this is too much to look for from Labour and Fine Gael.”
“Yesterday we saw the release of figures showing a rise in the Live Register to 448,600. We have nearly 450,000 people unemployed, many of them with young children, many of them newly jobless and with mortgages to pay, and yet this Government is actually contemplating cutting Child Benefit.
“Fine Gael and Labour must live up to their election promises and protect the most vulnerable in our society – our children.”
For further information or comment contact Deputy Jonathan O’Brien @ 085-2133907
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
City Council Rejects Welfare Cuts
City Council Rejects Welfare Cuts
Sinn Féin councillor Fiona Kerins has welcomed Cork City Council’s endorsement last night of a motion she put forward calling on the government not to cut social welfare payments in the budget.
Cllr Kerins said:
“The most vulnerable people in our society should not be asked to pay the costs of bailing out the banks. While the government is planning €3.8 billion in cuts in this year’s budget, it handed over €750 million to bondholders at Anglo-Irish Bank just three weeks ago.”
“In previous budgets social welfare rates have been cut repeatedly, the household benefits package has been reduced, and a prescription levy imposed on medical card holders.”
“Any further cuts to social welfare in this budget must be absolutely opposed. In particular, to cut Children’s’ Allowance as suggested would reduce the incomes of tens of thousands of families who are already struggling to make ends meet.”
“There are alternative ways of raising money and finding savings, as Sinn Féin has outlined in its pre-budget submission.”
For further information or comment contact Cllr Fiona Kerins @ 085-1091758
Sinn Féin councillor Fiona Kerins has welcomed Cork City Council’s endorsement last night of a motion she put forward calling on the government not to cut social welfare payments in the budget.
Cllr Kerins said:
“The most vulnerable people in our society should not be asked to pay the costs of bailing out the banks. While the government is planning €3.8 billion in cuts in this year’s budget, it handed over €750 million to bondholders at Anglo-Irish Bank just three weeks ago.”
“In previous budgets social welfare rates have been cut repeatedly, the household benefits package has been reduced, and a prescription levy imposed on medical card holders.”
“Any further cuts to social welfare in this budget must be absolutely opposed. In particular, to cut Children’s’ Allowance as suggested would reduce the incomes of tens of thousands of families who are already struggling to make ends meet.”
“There are alternative ways of raising money and finding savings, as Sinn Féin has outlined in its pre-budget submission.”
For further information or comment contact Cllr Fiona Kerins @ 085-1091758
Council Should Engage with NAMA on Housing-Nugent
Council Should Engage with NAMA on Housing-Nugent
Sinn Féin councillor Mick Nugent said last night that Cork City Council should enter discussions with NAMA to see if there were suitable properties in the city which could be taken over for social housing.
He was speaking after a Sinn Féin motion on the issue was forwarded to the housing committee for consideration.
Cllr Nugent said:
“With over 9,000 people on the housing list in Cork, we urgently need new ideas to tackle the housing crisis.”
“If NAMA has properties in Cork City which are lying idle, the council should work to identify if any of these would be suitable for social housing.”
“While NAMA as it is currently set up is tasked with making a financial return on the sale of these properties, given the depressed state of the property market it might be happy for the council to take a tranche of houses off its hands at a relatively low price.”
“Nothing is to be lost by entering a discussion, and I am pleased to hear from the Manager tonight that he is open to the idea.”
For further information or comment contact Cllr Mick Nugent @ 087-6755793
Sinn Féin councillor Mick Nugent said last night that Cork City Council should enter discussions with NAMA to see if there were suitable properties in the city which could be taken over for social housing.
He was speaking after a Sinn Féin motion on the issue was forwarded to the housing committee for consideration.
Cllr Nugent said:
“With over 9,000 people on the housing list in Cork, we urgently need new ideas to tackle the housing crisis.”
“If NAMA has properties in Cork City which are lying idle, the council should work to identify if any of these would be suitable for social housing.”
“While NAMA as it is currently set up is tasked with making a financial return on the sale of these properties, given the depressed state of the property market it might be happy for the council to take a tranche of houses off its hands at a relatively low price.”
“Nothing is to be lost by entering a discussion, and I am pleased to hear from the Manager tonight that he is open to the idea.”
For further information or comment contact Cllr Mick Nugent @ 087-6755793
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
Stop the Handover! Protest this Saturday at Daunt Square
Cork Sinn Féin are to mark the first anniversary of the EU/IMF intervention by holding a protest this Saturday against the continued handover of taxpayers’ money to international bondholders.
Speaking ahead of the event, Cllr Chris O’Leary said:
“This week marks the first anniversary of the intervention by the EU and IMF in Ireland’s affairs last November. Since then we have had a general election, but the new government has failed to renegotiate the bailout deal and instead followed the failed Fianna Fail policies of paying billions into the banks while imposing cutbacks on lower and middle-income earners.”
“Unemployment is higher today than it was last November, a further 40,000 of our young people have emigrated, and there is no sign of a return to economic growth.”
“While ordinary taxpayers are squeezed, the government has been paying out billions to bondholders in the now-defunct Anglo-Irish Bank. Following the handover of €750 million a couple of weeks ago, there will be four more payments in January – one totalling €1.25 billion.”
“It is time to say enough is enough. On Saturday Sinn Féin will be holding a protest at Daunt Square, calling on the government to stop the handover of taxpayers’ money to international bondholders and to renegotiate the deal with the IMF. We invite members of the public to come along and join us.”
Note – the protest will commence at 1pm in Daunt Square on Saturday 26th November, and is part of a nationwide day of action being organised by Sinn Féin.
For further information or comment contact Cllr Chris O’Leary @ 087-2794307
Speaking ahead of the event, Cllr Chris O’Leary said:
“This week marks the first anniversary of the intervention by the EU and IMF in Ireland’s affairs last November. Since then we have had a general election, but the new government has failed to renegotiate the bailout deal and instead followed the failed Fianna Fail policies of paying billions into the banks while imposing cutbacks on lower and middle-income earners.”
“Unemployment is higher today than it was last November, a further 40,000 of our young people have emigrated, and there is no sign of a return to economic growth.”
“While ordinary taxpayers are squeezed, the government has been paying out billions to bondholders in the now-defunct Anglo-Irish Bank. Following the handover of €750 million a couple of weeks ago, there will be four more payments in January – one totalling €1.25 billion.”
“It is time to say enough is enough. On Saturday Sinn Féin will be holding a protest at Daunt Square, calling on the government to stop the handover of taxpayers’ money to international bondholders and to renegotiate the deal with the IMF. We invite members of the public to come along and join us.”
Note – the protest will commence at 1pm in Daunt Square on Saturday 26th November, and is part of a nationwide day of action being organised by Sinn Féin.
For further information or comment contact Cllr Chris O’Leary @ 087-2794307
Monday, November 21, 2011
Proposed Cuts in Child Benefit Deeply Worrying – O’Brien
Proposed Cuts in Child Benefit Deeply Worrying – O’Brien
Sinn Féin TD Jonathan O’Brien has described reports that the government is considering a €10 cut in child benefit as deeply worrying, saying that if introduced it will lead to more children living in poverty.
Deputy O’Brien said:
“The suggestion that child benefit might be cut across the board by €10 is deeply worrying. While child benefit is a universal payment, a cut of this nature would disproportionately affect poor families with large households who are already struggling.”
“In 2009 over 40% of those living in consistent poverty were children. This measure would push even more children into poverty. It would pile more pressure on struggling families who have already been hard-hit by the Universal Service Charge, rising utility bills, and cuts in social welfare payments.”
“The Irish state provides among the lowest levels of support for childcare in Europe, and as a result we have some of the highest childcare costs. Child benefit should be retained at its current rate as a universal benefit. There are other ways of closing the deficit – taxing those like the 18,000 “high net worth individuals” in the state who can afford to pay more or cutting out state subsidies to private healthcare and education.”
For further information or comment contact Deputy Jonathan O’Brien @ 085-2133907
Sinn Féin TD Jonathan O’Brien has described reports that the government is considering a €10 cut in child benefit as deeply worrying, saying that if introduced it will lead to more children living in poverty.
Deputy O’Brien said:
“The suggestion that child benefit might be cut across the board by €10 is deeply worrying. While child benefit is a universal payment, a cut of this nature would disproportionately affect poor families with large households who are already struggling.”
“In 2009 over 40% of those living in consistent poverty were children. This measure would push even more children into poverty. It would pile more pressure on struggling families who have already been hard-hit by the Universal Service Charge, rising utility bills, and cuts in social welfare payments.”
“The Irish state provides among the lowest levels of support for childcare in Europe, and as a result we have some of the highest childcare costs. Child benefit should be retained at its current rate as a universal benefit. There are other ways of closing the deficit – taxing those like the 18,000 “high net worth individuals” in the state who can afford to pay more or cutting out state subsidies to private healthcare and education.”
For further information or comment contact Deputy Jonathan O’Brien @ 085-2133907
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
Council Needs Proper Debate on Sky Garden-O'Leary
Council Needs Proper Debate on Sky Garden-O'Leary
Sinn Féin councillor Chris O’Leary has said it is regrettable the council was not allowed last night to debate the City Manager’s response to Diarmuid Gavin’s letter on the controversial Sky Garden.
Cllr O’Leary said:
“I believe it is regrettable the council was not allowed to have a full debate on this matter, and especially the Manager’s reply, last night.”
“It is clear that the full facts around the commissioning of the Sky Garden have not yet been placed in the public domain. The public have a right to know the truth of this matter.”
“The original procurement documents are due to be released under a freedom of information request later this week. Hopefully this will throw some light on the matter.”
For further information or comment contact Cllr Chris O’Leary @ 087-2794307
Sinn Féin councillor Chris O’Leary has said it is regrettable the council was not allowed last night to debate the City Manager’s response to Diarmuid Gavin’s letter on the controversial Sky Garden.
Cllr O’Leary said:
“I believe it is regrettable the council was not allowed to have a full debate on this matter, and especially the Manager’s reply, last night.”
“It is clear that the full facts around the commissioning of the Sky Garden have not yet been placed in the public domain. The public have a right to know the truth of this matter.”
“The original procurement documents are due to be released under a freedom of information request later this week. Hopefully this will throw some light on the matter.”
For further information or comment contact Cllr Chris O’Leary @ 087-2794307
Council Should Review Letting Policy - O'Brien
Council Should Review Letting Policy - O'Brien
Sinn Féin TD Jonathan O'Brien has said Cork City Council should review its letting policy. He was commenting in the wake of incidents of anti-social behaviour invovling two families at Mount St Joseph's Heights, Baker's Hill, at the weekend.
Deputy O'Brien said:
"A number of people have contacted my office as well as my colleague, Cllr Mick Nugent, to express their concern at the serious anti-social behaviour which occured in Mount St.Joseph's at the weekend. I have been in contact with Cork City Council and the local Gardai in relation to the matter and they have assured me they are making every effort to ensure the situation does not recur."
"While Cork City Council has been pro-active over the past number of years in taking steps to deal with anti-social behaviour by tenants, I believe it may now be time to go further and review letting policies."
"The council should give consideration to placing new tenants on short-term letting agreements or inserting a probationary clause under which a new letting agremeent would lapse if tenants were found to engage in anti-social behaviour within a certain period of the lease being signed. Once tenants had been in occupation for a period of time without disturbance, they could move to a longer-term lease."
"Measures such as these would potentially strengthen the council's hand considerably in dealing with problem tenants."
For further comment or information contact Deputy Jonathan O'Brien @ 085-2133907
Sinn Féin TD Jonathan O'Brien has said Cork City Council should review its letting policy. He was commenting in the wake of incidents of anti-social behaviour invovling two families at Mount St Joseph's Heights, Baker's Hill, at the weekend.
Deputy O'Brien said:
"A number of people have contacted my office as well as my colleague, Cllr Mick Nugent, to express their concern at the serious anti-social behaviour which occured in Mount St.Joseph's at the weekend. I have been in contact with Cork City Council and the local Gardai in relation to the matter and they have assured me they are making every effort to ensure the situation does not recur."
"While Cork City Council has been pro-active over the past number of years in taking steps to deal with anti-social behaviour by tenants, I believe it may now be time to go further and review letting policies."
"The council should give consideration to placing new tenants on short-term letting agreements or inserting a probationary clause under which a new letting agremeent would lapse if tenants were found to engage in anti-social behaviour within a certain period of the lease being signed. Once tenants had been in occupation for a period of time without disturbance, they could move to a longer-term lease."
"Measures such as these would potentially strengthen the council's hand considerably in dealing with problem tenants."
For further comment or information contact Deputy Jonathan O'Brien @ 085-2133907
Buttimer Should Clarify Position on Cork Airport-O'Leary
Buttimer Should Clarify Position on Cork Airport-O'Leary
Councillor Chris O’Leary has called on Jerry Buttimer TD to make his position on the future of Cork Airport clear, saying holding a clinic on the issue last Monday was a diversionary tactic.
Cllr Chris O’Leary said:
“Jerry Buttimer and his party have repeatedly promised over the years that a Fine Gael government would ensure a debt-free, independent Cork Airport.”
“For example in April 2007 Jerry Buttimer stated publicly – and I quote – “"Fine Gael is committed to putting in place the financial structures to boost Cork Airport. In Government we will sit down with all the relevant stakeholders to develop a new financial package which solves the debt issue. We will not let debt drag down Cork airport.”
He also said: “Fine Gael has consistently opposed the Government's plan to leave Cork Airport with unsustainable debt. The airport has the potential to become an independent and financially viable airport in the interests of the Cork region, but not with such a crippling burden.”
Fast-forward to today and while the Review Group on State Assets and liabilities has recommended the privatisation of the airport and Booz and Company management consultants are preparing a report on its future, Jerry Buttimer was quoted last week as saying he had an “open mind” on its future.
Where are all the promises to stand up for Cork Airport now? Holding a special clinic on the issue and promising to pass on airport workers’ views to the Minister for Transport does not cut it. Jerry Buttimer should be insisting the government guarantee the future of Cork Airport as an independent, viable entity.”
“As a local TD, Jerry Buttimer should make his own position on the future of Cork Airport clear to constituents, and stop hiding behind a bogus consultation process.”
For further information or comment contact Cllr Chris O’Leary @ 087-2794307
Councillor Chris O’Leary has called on Jerry Buttimer TD to make his position on the future of Cork Airport clear, saying holding a clinic on the issue last Monday was a diversionary tactic.
Cllr Chris O’Leary said:
“Jerry Buttimer and his party have repeatedly promised over the years that a Fine Gael government would ensure a debt-free, independent Cork Airport.”
“For example in April 2007 Jerry Buttimer stated publicly – and I quote – “"Fine Gael is committed to putting in place the financial structures to boost Cork Airport. In Government we will sit down with all the relevant stakeholders to develop a new financial package which solves the debt issue. We will not let debt drag down Cork airport.”
He also said: “Fine Gael has consistently opposed the Government's plan to leave Cork Airport with unsustainable debt. The airport has the potential to become an independent and financially viable airport in the interests of the Cork region, but not with such a crippling burden.”
Fast-forward to today and while the Review Group on State Assets and liabilities has recommended the privatisation of the airport and Booz and Company management consultants are preparing a report on its future, Jerry Buttimer was quoted last week as saying he had an “open mind” on its future.
Where are all the promises to stand up for Cork Airport now? Holding a special clinic on the issue and promising to pass on airport workers’ views to the Minister for Transport does not cut it. Jerry Buttimer should be insisting the government guarantee the future of Cork Airport as an independent, viable entity.”
“As a local TD, Jerry Buttimer should make his own position on the future of Cork Airport clear to constituents, and stop hiding behind a bogus consultation process.”
For further information or comment contact Cllr Chris O’Leary @ 087-2794307
Council Backs Sinn Féin Motion on Bank Handover-O'Leary
Council Backs Sinn Féin Motion on Bank Handover-O'Leary
Cork City Council last night backed a Sinn Féin motion calling on the government not to hand over a further €1.25 billion in taxpayer’s money to unsecured bondholders in Anglo-Irish Bank in January.
Cllr Chris O’Leary said:
“I welcome the council’s support for this motion and its call on the government to cease handing over huge tranches of taxpayers’ money to unsecured, unguaranteed bondholders at the defunct Anglo-Irish bank.”
“Two weeks ago €700 million was handed over to another group of bondholders, and a series of further payments are scheduled for the next two months.”
“This is at a time when taxpayers and low-income families are being prepared for a budget that will impose nearly €4 billion in cuts.”
“The money which is currently being handed over to bondholders at Anglo would be far better used to invest in the country’s infrastructure or in a household stimulus package to help get the economy moving and create jobs.”
For further information or comment contact Cllr Chris O’Leary @ 087-2794307
Cork City Council last night backed a Sinn Féin motion calling on the government not to hand over a further €1.25 billion in taxpayer’s money to unsecured bondholders in Anglo-Irish Bank in January.
Cllr Chris O’Leary said:
“I welcome the council’s support for this motion and its call on the government to cease handing over huge tranches of taxpayers’ money to unsecured, unguaranteed bondholders at the defunct Anglo-Irish bank.”
“Two weeks ago €700 million was handed over to another group of bondholders, and a series of further payments are scheduled for the next two months.”
“This is at a time when taxpayers and low-income families are being prepared for a budget that will impose nearly €4 billion in cuts.”
“The money which is currently being handed over to bondholders at Anglo would be far better used to invest in the country’s infrastructure or in a household stimulus package to help get the economy moving and create jobs.”
For further information or comment contact Cllr Chris O’Leary @ 087-2794307
Friday, November 11, 2011
Public Need to Know the Full Facts about Sky Garden
Public Need to Know the Full Facts about Sky Garden
Sinn Féin councillor Chris O’Leary has called on the City Manager to make a full statement to the council regarding his officials’ dealings with celebrity gardener Diarmuid Gavin over the controversial Sky Garden project.
He was speaking after councillors received correspondence from Diarmuid Gavin and his design team requesting to address a full meeting of the council on the issue and suggesting that council officials sought to keep information out of the public domain.
Cllr O’Leary said:
“I am deeply concerned at this latest development.”
“It is clear from the correspondence I have received that council officials put pressure on Diarmuid Gavin and his design team to keep certain information about dealings between them out of the public domain.”
“What is it that officials are so anxious to hide from the public and their elected representatives?”
“Significant sums of the council’s money are at stake in this project at a time when the council is seriously under-funded and services are being cut back. If the manager wishes to retain the confidence of the public and elected representatives, he should now make a full statement to the council on the matter and put the history of Cork City Council’s dealings with Diarmuid Gavin into the public domain. If he is not willing to do this, then he should consider his position.”
For further information or comment contact Cllr Chris O’Leary @ 087-2794307
Sinn Féin councillor Chris O’Leary has called on the City Manager to make a full statement to the council regarding his officials’ dealings with celebrity gardener Diarmuid Gavin over the controversial Sky Garden project.
He was speaking after councillors received correspondence from Diarmuid Gavin and his design team requesting to address a full meeting of the council on the issue and suggesting that council officials sought to keep information out of the public domain.
Cllr O’Leary said:
“I am deeply concerned at this latest development.”
“It is clear from the correspondence I have received that council officials put pressure on Diarmuid Gavin and his design team to keep certain information about dealings between them out of the public domain.”
“What is it that officials are so anxious to hide from the public and their elected representatives?”
“Significant sums of the council’s money are at stake in this project at a time when the council is seriously under-funded and services are being cut back. If the manager wishes to retain the confidence of the public and elected representatives, he should now make a full statement to the council on the matter and put the history of Cork City Council’s dealings with Diarmuid Gavin into the public domain. If he is not willing to do this, then he should consider his position.”
For further information or comment contact Cllr Chris O’Leary @ 087-2794307
Bailed-out Banks Refuse to Pass on Mortgage Cuts-Nugent
Bailed-out Banks Refuse to Pass on Mortgage Cuts-Nugent
Speaking in response to news that Allied Irish Banks and Bank of Ireland do not intend to pass on the recent ECB interest rate reduction to their customers, Sinn Féin councillor Mick Nugent said the government must pass legislation to stop bailed-out banks exploiting their customers.
Cllr Nugent said:
“The news that Allied Irish Bank and Bank of Ireland do not intend to reduce interest rates in line with last week’s ECB reduction is devastating for mortgage holders and small businesses across the country.”
“These banks have been bailed out with billions of Euros of taxpayers’ money, yet they still insist on pursuing a policy of price-gouging at the expense of those same taxpayers.”
“Across the country hundreds of families are falling into serious mortgage distress every week. When in opposition Fine Gael and Labour criticised the failure of Fianna Fáil to take action to deal with the mortgage crisis. Now in office they are pursuing the same hands off minimalist approach as their predecessors.”
“With more than 100,000 families in mortgage distress it is time for the government to act. They must introduce legislation as a matter of urgency to force the banks to pass on ECB interest rate reductions to struggling home owners. Failure to do so will cause serious financial hardship for thousands of homeowners.
“It is time for the government to match their tough talking with tough action.”
For further information or comment contact Cllr Mick Nugent @ 087-6755793
Speaking in response to news that Allied Irish Banks and Bank of Ireland do not intend to pass on the recent ECB interest rate reduction to their customers, Sinn Féin councillor Mick Nugent said the government must pass legislation to stop bailed-out banks exploiting their customers.
Cllr Nugent said:
“The news that Allied Irish Bank and Bank of Ireland do not intend to reduce interest rates in line with last week’s ECB reduction is devastating for mortgage holders and small businesses across the country.”
“These banks have been bailed out with billions of Euros of taxpayers’ money, yet they still insist on pursuing a policy of price-gouging at the expense of those same taxpayers.”
“Across the country hundreds of families are falling into serious mortgage distress every week. When in opposition Fine Gael and Labour criticised the failure of Fianna Fáil to take action to deal with the mortgage crisis. Now in office they are pursuing the same hands off minimalist approach as their predecessors.”
“With more than 100,000 families in mortgage distress it is time for the government to act. They must introduce legislation as a matter of urgency to force the banks to pass on ECB interest rate reductions to struggling home owners. Failure to do so will cause serious financial hardship for thousands of homeowners.
“It is time for the government to match their tough talking with tough action.”
For further information or comment contact Cllr Mick Nugent @ 087-6755793
Government Plans to Target Rent Supplement Outrageous-O'Leary
Government Plans to Target Rent Supplement Outrageous-O'Leary
Sinn Féin councillor Chris O’Leary has slammed the government’s announcement it plans to cut €700 million from social welfare spending in the budget, days after it handed over €715 million to unsecured bondholders at Anglo Irish Bank.
Cllr O’Leary said:
“There is a bitter irony in the fact that €700 million is to be cut from social welfare spending in the next budget, given that only last week the government paid an identical sum to unsecured bondholders at Anglo Irish Bank.
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“Some of the poorest and most vulnerable people in our society are to be targeted by the government in its effort to make savings, at the same time as wealthy investors abroad who gambled on the Irish property boom are being handed vast sums of taxpayers’ money.”
“There is further irony in the fact that the Department of Social Welfare is to take the lion’s share of cuts in current expenditure at a time of record unemployment and under a Labour minister.”
“The decision to target the Rent Supplement for substantial savings is particularly outrageous. Given that the government has failed utterly to provide for peoples’ social housing needs – there are 9,000 families waiting for housing in this city alone – an attack on rent supplement will mean a “double whammy” for people those unable to get a mortgage or afford the very high rents in the private sector. The result will be to deepen the housing crisis, forcing more people into sub-standard or over-crowded accommodation or onto the streets.”
For further information or comment contact Cllr Chris O’Leary @ 087-2794307
Sinn Féin councillor Chris O’Leary has slammed the government’s announcement it plans to cut €700 million from social welfare spending in the budget, days after it handed over €715 million to unsecured bondholders at Anglo Irish Bank.
Cllr O’Leary said:
“There is a bitter irony in the fact that €700 million is to be cut from social welfare spending in the next budget, given that only last week the government paid an identical sum to unsecured bondholders at Anglo Irish Bank.
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“Some of the poorest and most vulnerable people in our society are to be targeted by the government in its effort to make savings, at the same time as wealthy investors abroad who gambled on the Irish property boom are being handed vast sums of taxpayers’ money.”
“There is further irony in the fact that the Department of Social Welfare is to take the lion’s share of cuts in current expenditure at a time of record unemployment and under a Labour minister.”
“The decision to target the Rent Supplement for substantial savings is particularly outrageous. Given that the government has failed utterly to provide for peoples’ social housing needs – there are 9,000 families waiting for housing in this city alone – an attack on rent supplement will mean a “double whammy” for people those unable to get a mortgage or afford the very high rents in the private sector. The result will be to deepen the housing crisis, forcing more people into sub-standard or over-crowded accommodation or onto the streets.”
For further information or comment contact Cllr Chris O’Leary @ 087-2794307
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
O’Brien calls for increased commitment to community safety in rural areas
O’Brien calls for increased commitment to community safety in rural areas
Speaking following reports that Justice Minister Alan Shatter intends to approve the closure of up to 200 rural garda stations, Sinn Féin spokesperson on Justice Jonathan O’Brien has called on the Minister to increase his commitment to community safety in rural areas and ensure that rural dwellers are provided with the policing services that they need.
The Cork North Central TD said;
“Wholesale closure of rural garda stations in order to respond to an economic crisis is not the way to ensure that rural dwellers have access to the policing services that they need.
“It has been reported that 200 out of the 700 garda stations across the state will be closed. I am seeking clarification from the Minister for Justice on his plans for the number and location of garda stations in Cork.
“As we have seen with the closures of rural post offices and other services, it is the people of rural communities who are losing out, and who will need to travel to the next town or village over should they have any business in a garda station. There is no clarity as to how this would work on an operational level. Rural communities deserve better than this.
“It is absolutely essential that the Minister for Justice considers the impact that station closures will have the lives of older, more vulnerable residents who are living in what are very often isolated areas. We are seeking increased garda visibility in these areas rather than a decrease. The recession has seen an increase in burglaries alongside proliferation of cash-for-gold shops. This is not the time to be considering closing garda stations when residents in rural areas may need them the most.”
ENDS
NOTE TO EDITOR:
The following parliamentary question has been submitted to the Minister for Justice and Equality by Deputy Jonathan O’Brien
To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality to state his plans for Garda stations in Cork; his plans to amend opening times; his plans to protect rural residents and to make a statement on the matter
Speaking following reports that Justice Minister Alan Shatter intends to approve the closure of up to 200 rural garda stations, Sinn Féin spokesperson on Justice Jonathan O’Brien has called on the Minister to increase his commitment to community safety in rural areas and ensure that rural dwellers are provided with the policing services that they need.
The Cork North Central TD said;
“Wholesale closure of rural garda stations in order to respond to an economic crisis is not the way to ensure that rural dwellers have access to the policing services that they need.
“It has been reported that 200 out of the 700 garda stations across the state will be closed. I am seeking clarification from the Minister for Justice on his plans for the number and location of garda stations in Cork.
“As we have seen with the closures of rural post offices and other services, it is the people of rural communities who are losing out, and who will need to travel to the next town or village over should they have any business in a garda station. There is no clarity as to how this would work on an operational level. Rural communities deserve better than this.
“It is absolutely essential that the Minister for Justice considers the impact that station closures will have the lives of older, more vulnerable residents who are living in what are very often isolated areas. We are seeking increased garda visibility in these areas rather than a decrease. The recession has seen an increase in burglaries alongside proliferation of cash-for-gold shops. This is not the time to be considering closing garda stations when residents in rural areas may need them the most.”
ENDS
NOTE TO EDITOR:
The following parliamentary question has been submitted to the Minister for Justice and Equality by Deputy Jonathan O’Brien
To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality to state his plans for Garda stations in Cork; his plans to amend opening times; his plans to protect rural residents and to make a statement on the matter
Council Must See Business Plan for Cork-Swansea Ferries
Council Must See Business Plan for Cork-Swansea Ferries
Speaking after last night’s council vote to extend a further €65,000 to Cork-Swansea Ferries, Sinn Féin councillor Mick Nugent said the company must present its business plan to the council and show how it intends to turn itself around.
Cllr Nugent said:
“It is plainly desirable to have a direct ferry from Cork, and the Cork-Swansea route has had 150,000 passengers since it re-opened. It is estimated that 100,000 of these may have been travellers from Britain to Ireland. There are obvious benefits for tourism in the Cork region.”
“It was for this reason the Sinn Féin councillors, with reservations, supported the vote last night. We also recognise that to vote against the proposal would have almost certainly meant the council’s existing €300,000 investment in Cork-Swansea being written off.”
“The company must now return to the council before the end of the examiner-ship with a detailed business plan for how it intends to turn itself around. Hopefully it will succeed in doing so and the council will be able to recoup the €300,00 already advanced.
For further information or comment contact Cllr Mick Nugent @ 087-6755793
Speaking after last night’s council vote to extend a further €65,000 to Cork-Swansea Ferries, Sinn Féin councillor Mick Nugent said the company must present its business plan to the council and show how it intends to turn itself around.
Cllr Nugent said:
“It is plainly desirable to have a direct ferry from Cork, and the Cork-Swansea route has had 150,000 passengers since it re-opened. It is estimated that 100,000 of these may have been travellers from Britain to Ireland. There are obvious benefits for tourism in the Cork region.”
“It was for this reason the Sinn Féin councillors, with reservations, supported the vote last night. We also recognise that to vote against the proposal would have almost certainly meant the council’s existing €300,000 investment in Cork-Swansea being written off.”
“The company must now return to the council before the end of the examiner-ship with a detailed business plan for how it intends to turn itself around. Hopefully it will succeed in doing so and the council will be able to recoup the €300,00 already advanced.
For further information or comment contact Cllr Mick Nugent @ 087-6755793
Friday, November 4, 2011
Stop the Handover!
Stop the Handover!
Cork Sinn Féin activists will tomorrow protest outside the office of Jerry Buttimer TD to underline the party’s opposition to the handover of €700 million to unsecured bondholders at Anglo Irish Bank.
Cllr Chris O’Leary said:
“Tomorrow the government plans to pay out €700 million to unsecured bondholders at Anglo Irish Bank.
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“This is the first is a series of planned handovers of billions in taxpayers’ money. Next January a further €1.2 billion will be paid out. All this against the backdrop of an austerity budget that will take over €4 billion out of the economy and inflict hardship on children, on carers, on the disabled and on the working poor.”
“The government plans between €3.6 and €4 billion of cutbacks in the budget. Refusing to handover the €700 million scheduled today could mean no household charge. It could mean no welfare cuts. Instead of going out of the country the money could be used at home to help stimulate our economy”
“This is not money the Irish people borrowed. These billions are being paid to international bondholders who lent money to the now defunct Anglo-Irish Bank.”
“At 1pm tomorrow Cork Sinn Féin activists will protest against the handover of this money outside the office of Jerry Buttimer TD where Fine Gael Euro MEP Sean Kelly is holding a clinic. I am encouraging people to join us and make their voices heard. People power can stop this outrageous payout. I am asking the people of Cork to tell the government to ‘Stop the Handover’.
For further information or comment contact Cllr Chris O’Leary @ 087-2794307
Cork Sinn Féin activists will tomorrow protest outside the office of Jerry Buttimer TD to underline the party’s opposition to the handover of €700 million to unsecured bondholders at Anglo Irish Bank.
Cllr Chris O’Leary said:
“Tomorrow the government plans to pay out €700 million to unsecured bondholders at Anglo Irish Bank.
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“This is the first is a series of planned handovers of billions in taxpayers’ money. Next January a further €1.2 billion will be paid out. All this against the backdrop of an austerity budget that will take over €4 billion out of the economy and inflict hardship on children, on carers, on the disabled and on the working poor.”
“The government plans between €3.6 and €4 billion of cutbacks in the budget. Refusing to handover the €700 million scheduled today could mean no household charge. It could mean no welfare cuts. Instead of going out of the country the money could be used at home to help stimulate our economy”
“This is not money the Irish people borrowed. These billions are being paid to international bondholders who lent money to the now defunct Anglo-Irish Bank.”
“At 1pm tomorrow Cork Sinn Féin activists will protest against the handover of this money outside the office of Jerry Buttimer TD where Fine Gael Euro MEP Sean Kelly is holding a clinic. I am encouraging people to join us and make their voices heard. People power can stop this outrageous payout. I am asking the people of Cork to tell the government to ‘Stop the Handover’.
For further information or comment contact Cllr Chris O’Leary @ 087-2794307
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
Hunger-strikers Commemoration to take place in Cork Sunday
Hunger-strikers Commemoration to take place in Cork Sunday
A commemoration will take place this Sunday to remember all those Irish Republicans who died on Hunger-strike, main speakers will be Séanna Walsh from Belfast who was on the 'Blanket-Protest' in the H-Blocks of Long Kesh and at one stage was a cell mate of Bobby Sands, & Malachy McCreesh a brother of Ray who died on Hunger-strike in 1981. Assembly point for the commemoration is Connolly Hall at 2pm from where local flute band the MacCurtain/MacSwiney & the Carrick-on-Suir flute band from Tipperary will lead the parade to the National Monument on the Grand Parade. The event is organised by the Phoenix Historical Society, spokesperson for the Society Cllr Mick Nugent said:
'Every year in October Cork Republicans gather in St.Finbarr's cemetery to remember all those patriots who gave their lives on Hunger-strike, in all 22 men died from 1917-1981, including five from Cork, Terence MacSwiney, Joe Murphy, Michael Fitzgerald, Dinny Barry & Andy O'Sullivan. This been the 30th anniversary of the Hunger-Strike in Long Kesh we felt it was appropriate to have an event in the city centre and follow the route solidarity marches took place in Cork in 1981. I would invite people who took part in those marches in 1981 and all those who cherish the memory of those who gave their lives for Irish freedom to join with us on Sunday, we will have speech's, readings and some music at the National Monument so I hope members of the public will come out and mark the anniversary.'
Cllr Mick Nugent 087-6755793
A commemoration will take place this Sunday to remember all those Irish Republicans who died on Hunger-strike, main speakers will be Séanna Walsh from Belfast who was on the 'Blanket-Protest' in the H-Blocks of Long Kesh and at one stage was a cell mate of Bobby Sands, & Malachy McCreesh a brother of Ray who died on Hunger-strike in 1981. Assembly point for the commemoration is Connolly Hall at 2pm from where local flute band the MacCurtain/MacSwiney & the Carrick-on-Suir flute band from Tipperary will lead the parade to the National Monument on the Grand Parade. The event is organised by the Phoenix Historical Society, spokesperson for the Society Cllr Mick Nugent said:
'Every year in October Cork Republicans gather in St.Finbarr's cemetery to remember all those patriots who gave their lives on Hunger-strike, in all 22 men died from 1917-1981, including five from Cork, Terence MacSwiney, Joe Murphy, Michael Fitzgerald, Dinny Barry & Andy O'Sullivan. This been the 30th anniversary of the Hunger-Strike in Long Kesh we felt it was appropriate to have an event in the city centre and follow the route solidarity marches took place in Cork in 1981. I would invite people who took part in those marches in 1981 and all those who cherish the memory of those who gave their lives for Irish freedom to join with us on Sunday, we will have speech's, readings and some music at the National Monument so I hope members of the public will come out and mark the anniversary.'
Cllr Mick Nugent 087-6755793
Council Officials Should be Held Accountable for Waste
Council Officials Should be Held Accountable for Waste
Speaking after it emerged last night that Cork City Council is to spend €20,000 to rent an abstract sculpture called the “Cow in a Tree” for fifteen weeks over Christmas, Cllr Chris O’Leary said there needed to be more accountability in how the council spent money.
Cllr O’Leary said:
“Many people in Cork – particularly those waiting on housing repairs from the council or for road resurfacing or traffic-calming measures in their estates – will wonder why the council is spending €20,000 to hire a piece of sculpture.”
“Decisions like this need more scrutiny and those who make them should be held accountable to the elected members. I sit on the council’s Arts Committee but the proposal to pay out for the “Cow in a Tree” sculpture was never brought before us for discussion.”
“The council is currently paying bonuses worth thousands of euro to the outgoing City Manager. I wonder will those responsible for this latest waste of public funds in time be awarded similar bonuses?”
“We need more accountability and transparency in relation to the disposal of public funds. In light of the current proposal going before the electorate to give Oireachtas Committees increased powers of investigation, I wonder should such an investigation be called into the repeated and scandalous waste of public money by Cork City Council, from the Sky Garden to the Cow in a Tree?”
For further information or comment contact Cllr Chris O’Leary @ 087-2794307
Speaking after it emerged last night that Cork City Council is to spend €20,000 to rent an abstract sculpture called the “Cow in a Tree” for fifteen weeks over Christmas, Cllr Chris O’Leary said there needed to be more accountability in how the council spent money.
Cllr O’Leary said:
“Many people in Cork – particularly those waiting on housing repairs from the council or for road resurfacing or traffic-calming measures in their estates – will wonder why the council is spending €20,000 to hire a piece of sculpture.”
“Decisions like this need more scrutiny and those who make them should be held accountable to the elected members. I sit on the council’s Arts Committee but the proposal to pay out for the “Cow in a Tree” sculpture was never brought before us for discussion.”
“The council is currently paying bonuses worth thousands of euro to the outgoing City Manager. I wonder will those responsible for this latest waste of public funds in time be awarded similar bonuses?”
“We need more accountability and transparency in relation to the disposal of public funds. In light of the current proposal going before the electorate to give Oireachtas Committees increased powers of investigation, I wonder should such an investigation be called into the repeated and scandalous waste of public money by Cork City Council, from the Sky Garden to the Cow in a Tree?”
For further information or comment contact Cllr Chris O’Leary @ 087-2794307
Monday, October 17, 2011
McGuinness to Address Cork Rally Tuesday
McGuinness to Address Cork Rally Tuesday
Martin McGuinness will be in Cork Tuesday evening to address a major rally at the Gresham Metropole Hotel, as the presidential election campaign enters its final weeks.
The rally is part of a three-day tour of Munster which will take in Cork, Kerry, Limerick and Tipperary.
The event is due to begin at 7.30 and, alongside Martin McGuinness, will feature a number of invited guests.
Guest speakers will include Cork GAA legend Teddy McCarthy, while music will be provided by a variety of artists.
Inviting members of the public to attend, campaign director Jonathan O’Brien TD said:
“This is a crucial election in charting the future of Ireland and Martin McGuinness offers people a real alternative. On Tuesday night people in Cork will have the chance to meet Martin and hear his message directly.”
“Throughout the campaign we have been getting a tremendous reception on the doors and I anticipate a capacity turnout at the rally.”
For further information or comment contact Deputy Jonathan O’Brien @ 086-0274142 or Cllr Chris O’Leary @ 087-2794307
Martin McGuinness will be in Cork Tuesday evening to address a major rally at the Gresham Metropole Hotel, as the presidential election campaign enters its final weeks.
The rally is part of a three-day tour of Munster which will take in Cork, Kerry, Limerick and Tipperary.
The event is due to begin at 7.30 and, alongside Martin McGuinness, will feature a number of invited guests.
Guest speakers will include Cork GAA legend Teddy McCarthy, while music will be provided by a variety of artists.
Inviting members of the public to attend, campaign director Jonathan O’Brien TD said:
“This is a crucial election in charting the future of Ireland and Martin McGuinness offers people a real alternative. On Tuesday night people in Cork will have the chance to meet Martin and hear his message directly.”
“Throughout the campaign we have been getting a tremendous reception on the doors and I anticipate a capacity turnout at the rally.”
For further information or comment contact Deputy Jonathan O’Brien @ 086-0274142 or Cllr Chris O’Leary @ 087-2794307
Sunday, October 16, 2011
HSE Cuts Proposals Appalling-Nugent
HSE Cuts Proposals Appalling-Nugent
Sinn Féin councillor Mick Nugent has today slammed cuts proposals from the HSE and called on the government to interven to prevent them going ahead.
Among measures being considered are a freeze on new medical cards which would affect over 40,000 people in 2011 and slashing home help hours.
Cllr Nugent said:
“I am absolutely appalled by the latest cuts proposals from the HSE"
“Recommendations include a freeze on all new medical cards until 2012, reducing home help hours by 600,000 and removing 400,000 personal assistant hours."
“If these measures are implemented, some of the most vulnerable people in our society will be left in desperate circumstances."
“Is this what the Labour Party have entered government for? Fine Gael and Labour should ensure these disgraceful proposals are scrapped before they can be implemented.”
For further comment of information contact Cllr Mick Nugent @ 087-6755793
Sinn Féin councillor Mick Nugent has today slammed cuts proposals from the HSE and called on the government to interven to prevent them going ahead.
Among measures being considered are a freeze on new medical cards which would affect over 40,000 people in 2011 and slashing home help hours.
Cllr Nugent said:
“I am absolutely appalled by the latest cuts proposals from the HSE"
“Recommendations include a freeze on all new medical cards until 2012, reducing home help hours by 600,000 and removing 400,000 personal assistant hours."
“If these measures are implemented, some of the most vulnerable people in our society will be left in desperate circumstances."
“Is this what the Labour Party have entered government for? Fine Gael and Labour should ensure these disgraceful proposals are scrapped before they can be implemented.”
For further comment of information contact Cllr Mick Nugent @ 087-6755793
Thursday, October 13, 2011
Transfer of A&E Services from South Infirmary Unacceptable-O'Leary
Transfer of A&E Services from South Infirmary Unacceptable-O'Leary
Sinn Féin councillor Chris O’Lerary has condemned the proposed closure of the A&E Unit at the South Infirmary Hospital and said further concentration of services on just two hospital campuses in the city would be bad for patients and communities.
Cllr O’Leary said:
“The announcement that the HSE is to close the Accident and Emergency Unit at the South Infirmary and transfer the service to another hospital will cause anger and concern among residents across the south east of the city.”
“While this had been proposed before, it was put on the back burner by the previous government after public opposition. Members of the current administration had stated before the election they would retain services at the South Infirmary if elected. They have now reneged on these pledges.”
“The South Infirmary serves a huge catchment area in the South East of the city, from Blackrock through Douglas and on to Carrigaline and the Lower Harbour. This area will now be left without a local A&E.”
“Following the transfer of services from St Mary’s Orthopaedic Hospital to the Mercy, today’s announcement represents a further concentration of services on just two city centre hospitals. Both have limited space and there are issues with parking and access. People are entitled to ask whether the number of A&E beds currently available at the South Infirmary will be retained at the new site if the transfer of service goes ahead.”
“Further concentration of hospital services in the city is good neither for patients nor communities. This decision is a further example of the Fine Gael-Labour government following the same failed policies as Fianna Fáil.”
For further information or comment contact Cllr Chris O’Leary @ 087-2794307
Sinn Féin councillor Chris O’Lerary has condemned the proposed closure of the A&E Unit at the South Infirmary Hospital and said further concentration of services on just two hospital campuses in the city would be bad for patients and communities.
Cllr O’Leary said:
“The announcement that the HSE is to close the Accident and Emergency Unit at the South Infirmary and transfer the service to another hospital will cause anger and concern among residents across the south east of the city.”
“While this had been proposed before, it was put on the back burner by the previous government after public opposition. Members of the current administration had stated before the election they would retain services at the South Infirmary if elected. They have now reneged on these pledges.”
“The South Infirmary serves a huge catchment area in the South East of the city, from Blackrock through Douglas and on to Carrigaline and the Lower Harbour. This area will now be left without a local A&E.”
“Following the transfer of services from St Mary’s Orthopaedic Hospital to the Mercy, today’s announcement represents a further concentration of services on just two city centre hospitals. Both have limited space and there are issues with parking and access. People are entitled to ask whether the number of A&E beds currently available at the South Infirmary will be retained at the new site if the transfer of service goes ahead.”
“Further concentration of hospital services in the city is good neither for patients nor communities. This decision is a further example of the Fine Gael-Labour government following the same failed policies as Fianna Fáil.”
For further information or comment contact Cllr Chris O’Leary @ 087-2794307
Buttimer Has Questions to Answer Over A&E Issue-O'Leary
Buttimer Has Questions to Answer Over A&E Issue-O'Leary
Sinn Féin councillor Chris O’Leary has called on Jerry Buttimer, as chair of the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Health, to clarify his position on the proposed closure of the A&E Unit at the South Infirmary Hospital.
Cllr O’Leary said:
“As chair of the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Health and Children, Jerry Buttimer TD should have his finger on the pulse as regards the delivery of health services in Cork.”
“I think his constituents, who now face the loss of the Accident and Emergency Unit at the South Infirmary Hospital, have the right to know how long he has been aware of the impending closure and why he has kept silent about it.”
“They might also ask whether he intends to follow the honourable course taken by his predecessor as Chair of the Committee, Denis Naughten TD, who resigned from Fine Gael in protest at the withdrawal of A&E services from Roscommon Hospital.”
For further information or comment contact Cllr Chris O’Leary @ 087-2794307
Sinn Féin councillor Chris O’Leary has called on Jerry Buttimer, as chair of the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Health, to clarify his position on the proposed closure of the A&E Unit at the South Infirmary Hospital.
Cllr O’Leary said:
“As chair of the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Health and Children, Jerry Buttimer TD should have his finger on the pulse as regards the delivery of health services in Cork.”
“I think his constituents, who now face the loss of the Accident and Emergency Unit at the South Infirmary Hospital, have the right to know how long he has been aware of the impending closure and why he has kept silent about it.”
“They might also ask whether he intends to follow the honourable course taken by his predecessor as Chair of the Committee, Denis Naughten TD, who resigned from Fine Gael in protest at the withdrawal of A&E services from Roscommon Hospital.”
For further information or comment contact Cllr Chris O’Leary @ 087-2794307
Wednesday, October 12, 2011
Martin McGuinness to Speak at Cork Rally
Martin McGuinness will address a major rally at the Gresham Hotel in Cork next Tuesday. The event will start at 7.30.
Director of the Cork4McGuinness campaign Jonathan O’Brien TD said:
“I want to invite members of the public as well as representatives of trade unions, business, community and civic organisation to Tuesday’s rally.”
“It is an opportunity to meet Martin McGuinness and hear at first hand his vision for the presidency and for our country’s future.”
“Ireland is at a crossroads. This election offers us the opportunity to chart a new course, the start the process of rebuilding our economy and regaining our confidence as a nation.”
“As President, Martin McGuinness will be a jobs ambassador for Ireland, using his unparalleled contacts around the globe and particularly in the US to attract investment. He will defend Ireland’s sovereignty and continue the work of building peace and national reconciliation which he has undertaken as Deputy First Minister.”
For further information or comment contact Jonathan O’Brien TD @ 086-0274142
Director of the Cork4McGuinness campaign Jonathan O’Brien TD said:
“I want to invite members of the public as well as representatives of trade unions, business, community and civic organisation to Tuesday’s rally.”
“It is an opportunity to meet Martin McGuinness and hear at first hand his vision for the presidency and for our country’s future.”
“Ireland is at a crossroads. This election offers us the opportunity to chart a new course, the start the process of rebuilding our economy and regaining our confidence as a nation.”
“As President, Martin McGuinness will be a jobs ambassador for Ireland, using his unparalleled contacts around the globe and particularly in the US to attract investment. He will defend Ireland’s sovereignty and continue the work of building peace and national reconciliation which he has undertaken as Deputy First Minister.”
For further information or comment contact Jonathan O’Brien TD @ 086-0274142
Friday, September 30, 2011
“Cork For McGuinness” Meeting Monday Night
“Cork For McGuinness” Meeting Monday Night
A meeting will take place upstairs at An Spailpín Fanac on South Main Street Monday night at 7.30pm for people who want to get involved in the campaign to elect Martin McGuinness as president.
Director of Elections Jonathan O’Brien TD said:
“This Presidential election is a critical opportunity for the Irish people to set a new course for our country.”
“Martin McGuinness offers an alternative to the establishment parties with a proven track record of achievement and an international reputation as a statesman and peacemaker.”
“The Cork for McGuinness campaign invites people from all backgrounds , whether or not they are members of Sinn Féin or have been involved in similar campaigns before, to help get Martin elected.”
“We have already had many people contacting us who want to get involved. Monday’s meeting is an opportunity for members of the public who want help out in the campaign to join.”
For further information or comment contact Jonathan O’Brien TD @ 086-0274142
A meeting will take place upstairs at An Spailpín Fanac on South Main Street Monday night at 7.30pm for people who want to get involved in the campaign to elect Martin McGuinness as president.
Director of Elections Jonathan O’Brien TD said:
“This Presidential election is a critical opportunity for the Irish people to set a new course for our country.”
“Martin McGuinness offers an alternative to the establishment parties with a proven track record of achievement and an international reputation as a statesman and peacemaker.”
“The Cork for McGuinness campaign invites people from all backgrounds , whether or not they are members of Sinn Féin or have been involved in similar campaigns before, to help get Martin elected.”
“We have already had many people contacting us who want to get involved. Monday’s meeting is an opportunity for members of the public who want help out in the campaign to join.”
For further information or comment contact Jonathan O’Brien TD @ 086-0274142
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
O’Brien Urges Voters to Check Register
O’Brien Urges Voters to Check Register
Jonathan O’Brien TD today urged voters to make sure they are registered to vote in the presidential election before the deadline of 10th October.
Deputy O’Brien – who is director of the McGuinness for President campaign in Cork – said it was important that people check to see they are on the electoral register, even if they had voted in the past.
“This election is a vital opportunity for people to make a statement about the kind of future they want for our country. It is important that people are registered to vote and that they use their vote.”
“There have been cases at previous elections where people believed they were on the register only to find when they turned up at the polling station they were ineligible to vote. To make sure you will be able to vote in the presidential election, go online at www. checktheregister.ie and see that you are registered.”
“Those who are not currently on the register have until 10th October to put themselves on the supplementary register.”
Deputy O’Brien also criticised the government for holding the presidential election on a Thursday:
“The decision to hold the election on a Thursday will effectively disenfranchise thousands of students who will be away from home at college on the day. It is disgraceful that the government has failed to facilitate these young people to have their say.”
For further information or comment contact Jonathan O’Brien TD @ 086-0274142
Jonathan O’Brien TD today urged voters to make sure they are registered to vote in the presidential election before the deadline of 10th October.
Deputy O’Brien – who is director of the McGuinness for President campaign in Cork – said it was important that people check to see they are on the electoral register, even if they had voted in the past.
“This election is a vital opportunity for people to make a statement about the kind of future they want for our country. It is important that people are registered to vote and that they use their vote.”
“There have been cases at previous elections where people believed they were on the register only to find when they turned up at the polling station they were ineligible to vote. To make sure you will be able to vote in the presidential election, go online at www. checktheregister.ie and see that you are registered.”
“Those who are not currently on the register have until 10th October to put themselves on the supplementary register.”
Deputy O’Brien also criticised the government for holding the presidential election on a Thursday:
“The decision to hold the election on a Thursday will effectively disenfranchise thousands of students who will be away from home at college on the day. It is disgraceful that the government has failed to facilitate these young people to have their say.”
For further information or comment contact Jonathan O’Brien TD @ 086-0274142
Monday, September 26, 2011
Government Must Reject AIB Demand on Salary- O'Brien
Government Must Reject AIB Demand on Salary- O'Brien
Sinn Féin TD Jonathan O’Brien has called on the government to reject AIB’s request that the salary of its next Chief Executive should be above the €500,000 cap set on banker’s pay.
Deputy O’Brien said:
“That AIB would even make this request shows how delusional senior bankers remain.”
“Ordinary people are struggling in the face of cutbacks, mortgage arrears, unemployment and reduced pay, yet AIB believes €500,000 pay is too little to pay its Chief Executive.”
“The government should not even be considering this request. By doing so it is feeding the banks’ belief that they should be immune to the economic pain being suffered by the rest of the country.”
“The fact is that the people who run our banking system were never held properly to account for the catastrophic losses they have caused the country, and this impunity has continued under Fine Gael.”
For further information or comment contact Jonathan O’Brien TD @ 086-0274142
Sinn Féin TD Jonathan O’Brien has called on the government to reject AIB’s request that the salary of its next Chief Executive should be above the €500,000 cap set on banker’s pay.
Deputy O’Brien said:
“That AIB would even make this request shows how delusional senior bankers remain.”
“Ordinary people are struggling in the face of cutbacks, mortgage arrears, unemployment and reduced pay, yet AIB believes €500,000 pay is too little to pay its Chief Executive.”
“The government should not even be considering this request. By doing so it is feeding the banks’ belief that they should be immune to the economic pain being suffered by the rest of the country.”
“The fact is that the people who run our banking system were never held properly to account for the catastrophic losses they have caused the country, and this impunity has continued under Fine Gael.”
For further information or comment contact Jonathan O’Brien TD @ 086-0274142
Thursday, September 22, 2011
Blackrock Residents Protest against Household Charge
Blackrock Residents Protest against Household Charge
Members of the public expressed their opposition to the proposed household charge at a meeting organised by Cllr Chris O’Leary in Blackrock last night.
The meeting was aimed at providing a forum for the community in Blackrock and Mahon to organise against the tax, and is the first of a series Sinn Féin will be holding across the city.
Speaking at the event, Cllr O’Leary said:
“The past two years have seen a raft of flat rate taxes and charges being introduced which will hit ordinary families hardest: the Universal Social Charge, the proposed Household Charge, and most recently the 2% levy on all insurance policies designed to cover the losses of the Quinn Group.”
“The Household Charge will be €100 whether the householder is earning millions or struggling to get by. As such it breaches the most fundamental principle of a progressive taxation system.”
“It is also the thin end of the wedge. Reputable economists have predicted it could rise to as much as €700 or €800.”
Calling the introduction of the charge a first step towards the privatisation of the water service, he said:
“Privatisation does not work. It is presented as providing more choice and a better service for the consumer, but in fact means the opposite. Just two companies control two thirds of all the privatised water utilities in the world.”
The meeting closed with a discussion of ways to forward the campaign, including protests at TDs’ offices.
For further information or comment contact Cllr Chris O’Leary @ 087-2794307
Members of the public expressed their opposition to the proposed household charge at a meeting organised by Cllr Chris O’Leary in Blackrock last night.
The meeting was aimed at providing a forum for the community in Blackrock and Mahon to organise against the tax, and is the first of a series Sinn Féin will be holding across the city.
Speaking at the event, Cllr O’Leary said:
“The past two years have seen a raft of flat rate taxes and charges being introduced which will hit ordinary families hardest: the Universal Social Charge, the proposed Household Charge, and most recently the 2% levy on all insurance policies designed to cover the losses of the Quinn Group.”
“The Household Charge will be €100 whether the householder is earning millions or struggling to get by. As such it breaches the most fundamental principle of a progressive taxation system.”
“It is also the thin end of the wedge. Reputable economists have predicted it could rise to as much as €700 or €800.”
Calling the introduction of the charge a first step towards the privatisation of the water service, he said:
“Privatisation does not work. It is presented as providing more choice and a better service for the consumer, but in fact means the opposite. Just two companies control two thirds of all the privatised water utilities in the world.”
The meeting closed with a discussion of ways to forward the campaign, including protests at TDs’ offices.
For further information or comment contact Cllr Chris O’Leary @ 087-2794307
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
City Council Faces Funding Crisis- O'Leary
City Council Faces Funding Crisis- O'Leary
The incoming chair of Cork City Council’s finance committee, Cllr Chris O’Leary, has said the council faces a severe funding crisis in the next year and urgent action must be taken if it is to maintain services.
Cllr O’Leary said:
“It was confirmed this week that the council faces a €3.725 million shortfall in funding this year.”
“A significant part of this arises from government funds, including the housing grant, water service grant and roads grant, being withdrawn. This will have a direct impact on council services. Housing maintenance will virtually cease, there will be less money to repair water pipes as we go into the winter, and the budget for traffic calming and road re-surfacing will be cut to the bone.”
“The council faces a further challenge when 134 staff take early retirement next year. Each of these will be entitled to a payment equivalent to 18 months wages, leaving the financial position of the council even more critical than has been indicated.”
“The council now needs to prioritise essential services. In the past year we have seen money designated for vanity projects like the Sky-Garden and refitting the Lord Mayor’s chamber without the approval of council. This cannot continue.”
“There also needs to be a serious look at the issue of conference expenses and the Lord Mayors’ pay.”
“The City Manager needs to inform council how much is being realised by the sale of the refuse service to Country Clean and whether the best value is being achieved for this.”
“At a national level, the government needs to live up to the commitments it has made to fund local authorities and in the longer term, initiate a fundamental reform of the way local government is funded.”
For further information or comment contact Cllr Chris O’Leary @ 087-2794307
The incoming chair of Cork City Council’s finance committee, Cllr Chris O’Leary, has said the council faces a severe funding crisis in the next year and urgent action must be taken if it is to maintain services.
Cllr O’Leary said:
“It was confirmed this week that the council faces a €3.725 million shortfall in funding this year.”
“A significant part of this arises from government funds, including the housing grant, water service grant and roads grant, being withdrawn. This will have a direct impact on council services. Housing maintenance will virtually cease, there will be less money to repair water pipes as we go into the winter, and the budget for traffic calming and road re-surfacing will be cut to the bone.”
“The council faces a further challenge when 134 staff take early retirement next year. Each of these will be entitled to a payment equivalent to 18 months wages, leaving the financial position of the council even more critical than has been indicated.”
“The council now needs to prioritise essential services. In the past year we have seen money designated for vanity projects like the Sky-Garden and refitting the Lord Mayor’s chamber without the approval of council. This cannot continue.”
“There also needs to be a serious look at the issue of conference expenses and the Lord Mayors’ pay.”
“The City Manager needs to inform council how much is being realised by the sale of the refuse service to Country Clean and whether the best value is being achieved for this.”
“At a national level, the government needs to live up to the commitments it has made to fund local authorities and in the longer term, initiate a fundamental reform of the way local government is funded.”
For further information or comment contact Cllr Chris O’Leary @ 087-2794307
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
Action Must Follow Community Safety Meeting
Action Must Follow Community Safety Meeting
Speaking after last night’s meeting of the local Community Safety Forum, Sinn Féin’s representative for the Mayfield area, Pat Coughlan, said the authorities now needed to follow up with action.
He said:
“Last night’s meeting of the Community Safety Forum for Mayfield saw a massive attendance of over 150 local residents. Many expressed anger and frustration at what they saw as the neglect of their community by the council and the poor response from the Gardai to issues of criminality and anti-social behaviour.”
“While the meeting provided a valuable forum for people to have their say with council officials and senior Gardai present, it must now be followed up by action.”
“The council must take steps to reduce the number of boarded-up houses in the area and improve the public realm through better street lighting and the closure of alleyways which have facilitated drug-dealing. It must also, crucially, fast-track the process of evicting tenants who are engaged in criminal or anti-social behaviour.”
“The Gardai must continue to engage with the community to police it in a way that is more responsive to the needs and concerns of local people.”
For further information or comment contact Pat Coughlan @ 086-23836005
Speaking after last night’s meeting of the local Community Safety Forum, Sinn Féin’s representative for the Mayfield area, Pat Coughlan, said the authorities now needed to follow up with action.
He said:
“Last night’s meeting of the Community Safety Forum for Mayfield saw a massive attendance of over 150 local residents. Many expressed anger and frustration at what they saw as the neglect of their community by the council and the poor response from the Gardai to issues of criminality and anti-social behaviour.”
“While the meeting provided a valuable forum for people to have their say with council officials and senior Gardai present, it must now be followed up by action.”
“The council must take steps to reduce the number of boarded-up houses in the area and improve the public realm through better street lighting and the closure of alleyways which have facilitated drug-dealing. It must also, crucially, fast-track the process of evicting tenants who are engaged in criminal or anti-social behaviour.”
“The Gardai must continue to engage with the community to police it in a way that is more responsive to the needs and concerns of local people.”
For further information or comment contact Pat Coughlan @ 086-23836005
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
Sinn Féin Calls for Strong Attendance at Community Safety Forum
Sinn Féin Calls for Strong Attendance at Community Safety Forum
Sinn Féin’s representative for the Mayfield area, Pat Coughlan, has called for a strong attendance at next Monday’s emergency meeting of the Community Safety Forum.
He said:
“An emergency meeting of the Community Safety Forum for Mayfield will take place on Monday night at 7.30pm in Mayfield Community School.”
“The meeting was agreed by Mayfield Gardai following a request by Jonathan O’Brien TD at a recent session of the Joint Policing Committee.”
“In recent weeks there has been a lot of concern expressed in the area about the anti-social activities of a small number of people. This meeting is an opportunity for residents to put these concerns directly to representatives of the Gardai and the City Council who will be in attendance.”
“I would encourage the local community to make full use of this opportunity. People should attend the meeting and ensure that all issues of concern are fully discussed.”
For further information or comment contact Pat Coughlan @ 086-23836005
Sinn Féin’s representative for the Mayfield area, Pat Coughlan, has called for a strong attendance at next Monday’s emergency meeting of the Community Safety Forum.
He said:
“An emergency meeting of the Community Safety Forum for Mayfield will take place on Monday night at 7.30pm in Mayfield Community School.”
“The meeting was agreed by Mayfield Gardai following a request by Jonathan O’Brien TD at a recent session of the Joint Policing Committee.”
“In recent weeks there has been a lot of concern expressed in the area about the anti-social activities of a small number of people. This meeting is an opportunity for residents to put these concerns directly to representatives of the Gardai and the City Council who will be in attendance.”
“I would encourage the local community to make full use of this opportunity. People should attend the meeting and ensure that all issues of concern are fully discussed.”
For further information or comment contact Pat Coughlan @ 086-23836005
Sinn Féin Protest Meeting against Household Charge
Sinn Féin Protest Meeting against Household Charge
A public meeting against the proposed household charge and government austerity measures will take place at Blackrock GAA Club next Wednesday 21st September.
The meeting, which will commence at 7.30pm, is being organised by local councillor Chris O’Leary.
Encouraging residents of Mahon and Blackrock to attend the meeting, Cllr O’Leary said:
“This meeting is the next step in Sinn Féin’s ongoing campaign against the proposed household charge. Last Monday night we successfully persuaded Cork City Council to pass a motion opposing the charge – next week we start bringing the campaign into communities across the city.”
“The household charge is a flat tax which will fall hardest on those on low incomes, the unemployed and working families. It is grossly unfair, because it will be levied at exactly the same rate on every household regardless of their income.”
“The proposed €100 charge is only the beginning. Unless it is defeated now, the payment will rise year on year and householders will end up facing bills of hundreds of euro.”
“As we saw a number of years ago when the then government attempted to remove the automatic right to the medical card from pensioners, popular opposition can defeat unjust and ill-thought out proposals. On Wednesday night I am hoping people from Mahon and Blackrock will turn out to discuss how we can organise in our communities to defeat the household charge.”
For further information or comment contact Cllr Chris O’Leary @ 087-2794307
A public meeting against the proposed household charge and government austerity measures will take place at Blackrock GAA Club next Wednesday 21st September.
The meeting, which will commence at 7.30pm, is being organised by local councillor Chris O’Leary.
Encouraging residents of Mahon and Blackrock to attend the meeting, Cllr O’Leary said:
“This meeting is the next step in Sinn Féin’s ongoing campaign against the proposed household charge. Last Monday night we successfully persuaded Cork City Council to pass a motion opposing the charge – next week we start bringing the campaign into communities across the city.”
“The household charge is a flat tax which will fall hardest on those on low incomes, the unemployed and working families. It is grossly unfair, because it will be levied at exactly the same rate on every household regardless of their income.”
“The proposed €100 charge is only the beginning. Unless it is defeated now, the payment will rise year on year and householders will end up facing bills of hundreds of euro.”
“As we saw a number of years ago when the then government attempted to remove the automatic right to the medical card from pensioners, popular opposition can defeat unjust and ill-thought out proposals. On Wednesday night I am hoping people from Mahon and Blackrock will turn out to discuss how we can organise in our communities to defeat the household charge.”
For further information or comment contact Cllr Chris O’Leary @ 087-2794307
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
Housing Issues Prominent at Sinn Féin Ard Fheis
Housing Issues Prominent at Sinn Féin Ard Fheis
Cllr Mick Nugent has welcomed the passage of a number of motions put forward by Cork Sinn Féin at the party’s weekend Ard Fheis, several of which focused on the plight of mortgage-holders and those on the social housing list.
On foot of a proposal from Cork Sinn Féin, the Ard Fheis called for properties under the control of NAMA which are identified as suitable for social housing to be handed over to local authorities in order to reduce the housing list.
Another motion called for legislation to allow those in affordable housing who are experiencing repayment difficulties to access a rental scheme which would allow them remain in their homes while working through their financial difficulties.
The Ard Fheis also passed a motion calling for a debate on Ireland’s continued membership of the Euro.
Commenting, Cllr Nugent said:
“The Ard Fheis was a great success with a strong Cork contingent. I am particularly happy that a series of motions on housing put forward by the party in Cork were adopted as party policy. This reflects the strong emphasis on this issue by Sinn Féin in Cork over the past year – as the scale of the housing crisis is once more underlined by the news that the council’s housing list is now over 9,000.”
For further information or comment contact Cllr Mick Nugent @ 087-6755793
Cllr Mick Nugent has welcomed the passage of a number of motions put forward by Cork Sinn Féin at the party’s weekend Ard Fheis, several of which focused on the plight of mortgage-holders and those on the social housing list.
On foot of a proposal from Cork Sinn Féin, the Ard Fheis called for properties under the control of NAMA which are identified as suitable for social housing to be handed over to local authorities in order to reduce the housing list.
Another motion called for legislation to allow those in affordable housing who are experiencing repayment difficulties to access a rental scheme which would allow them remain in their homes while working through their financial difficulties.
The Ard Fheis also passed a motion calling for a debate on Ireland’s continued membership of the Euro.
Commenting, Cllr Nugent said:
“The Ard Fheis was a great success with a strong Cork contingent. I am particularly happy that a series of motions on housing put forward by the party in Cork were adopted as party policy. This reflects the strong emphasis on this issue by Sinn Féin in Cork over the past year – as the scale of the housing crisis is once more underlined by the news that the council’s housing list is now over 9,000.”
For further information or comment contact Cllr Mick Nugent @ 087-6755793
Council Agrees Sinn Féin Motion against Household Charge
Cork City Council last night passed a Sinn Féin motion opposing taxes on families, including the proposed household charge, and calling on the government to seek alternative means of reducing the deficit.
Speaking afterwards, Cllr Chris O’Leary said:
“I welcome the council’s support for Sinn Féin’s campaign against the imposition of increased financial burdens on families. The 7% Universal Social Charge and the proposed water and household charges are flat taxes which will hit those on low incomes, the unemployed and working families hardest.”
“The household charge would be levied at exactly the same rate on every householder regardless of their income. This would place the heaviest burden on those who have the least, and be grossly unfair.”
“There are other ways of reducing the budget deficit, and Sinn Féin has repeatedly laid them out. These include:
· Increasing Capital Gains Tax from 25% to 40%, to raise €195 million
· Increasing Capitals Acquisitions Tax from 25% to 35%, to raise €110 million
· Introducing a new 48% tax on income over €100,000, which would raise €410 million
· Standardising discretionary tax reliefs, which would raise €610 million.
“These are the kind of alternative measures which the government should look to in its effort to reduce the deficit.”
For further information or comment contact Cllr Chris O’Leary @ 087-2794307
Speaking afterwards, Cllr Chris O’Leary said:
“I welcome the council’s support for Sinn Féin’s campaign against the imposition of increased financial burdens on families. The 7% Universal Social Charge and the proposed water and household charges are flat taxes which will hit those on low incomes, the unemployed and working families hardest.”
“The household charge would be levied at exactly the same rate on every householder regardless of their income. This would place the heaviest burden on those who have the least, and be grossly unfair.”
“There are other ways of reducing the budget deficit, and Sinn Féin has repeatedly laid them out. These include:
· Increasing Capital Gains Tax from 25% to 40%, to raise €195 million
· Increasing Capitals Acquisitions Tax from 25% to 35%, to raise €110 million
· Introducing a new 48% tax on income over €100,000, which would raise €410 million
· Standardising discretionary tax reliefs, which would raise €610 million.
“These are the kind of alternative measures which the government should look to in its effort to reduce the deficit.”
For further information or comment contact Cllr Chris O’Leary @ 087-2794307
Thursday, September 8, 2011
Large Attendance at Meeting on Community Safety in Mayfield
Large Attendance at Meeting on Community Safety in Mayfield
There was a large turnout of residents at a public meeting in Mayfield organised by Sinn Féin last night on the theme of “Creating a Safer Community”. Over fifty people attended the meeting at St Joseph’s Community Centre on the Old Youghal Road.
Residents were united in their concerns about drug-dealing in the area and their determination to come together as a community to tackle the problem.
Several expressed disappointment at the absence of representatives of the Gardai and the council, who had been invited to attend the meeting but declined.
Calls were made for a tougher approach from the Gardai to those known to be dealing in drugs and for the council to evict anti-social tenants. Residents also demanded action from the council to improve the public realm in the area, by reducing the number of boarded up houses, improving lighting, and closing alleyways.
A significant number of residents expressed interest in forming a Residents’ Action Committee to campaign on the issues raised at the meeting.
The gathering was chaired by local Sinn Féin representative Pat Coughlan, and was addressed by Jonathan O’Brien TD as well as councillors Mick Nugent and Chris O’Leary. Afterwards, Mr Coughlan said:
“Tonight’s meeting shows the community in Mayfield coming together to address the problems that are being caused by a small minority of people in the area.”
“While it is up to the Gardai to tackle criminality, there is also a role for the community in making it clear to anti-social elements that they arte not welcome. The Gardai and the council need to support local people in their efforts to improve the quality of life of everybody in Mayfield.”
For further information or comment contact Pat Coughlan @ 086-23836005, Jonathan O’Brien TD @ 086-0274142, or Cllr Mick Nugent @ 087-6755793
There was a large turnout of residents at a public meeting in Mayfield organised by Sinn Féin last night on the theme of “Creating a Safer Community”. Over fifty people attended the meeting at St Joseph’s Community Centre on the Old Youghal Road.
Residents were united in their concerns about drug-dealing in the area and their determination to come together as a community to tackle the problem.
Several expressed disappointment at the absence of representatives of the Gardai and the council, who had been invited to attend the meeting but declined.
Calls were made for a tougher approach from the Gardai to those known to be dealing in drugs and for the council to evict anti-social tenants. Residents also demanded action from the council to improve the public realm in the area, by reducing the number of boarded up houses, improving lighting, and closing alleyways.
A significant number of residents expressed interest in forming a Residents’ Action Committee to campaign on the issues raised at the meeting.
The gathering was chaired by local Sinn Féin representative Pat Coughlan, and was addressed by Jonathan O’Brien TD as well as councillors Mick Nugent and Chris O’Leary. Afterwards, Mr Coughlan said:
“Tonight’s meeting shows the community in Mayfield coming together to address the problems that are being caused by a small minority of people in the area.”
“While it is up to the Gardai to tackle criminality, there is also a role for the community in making it clear to anti-social elements that they arte not welcome. The Gardai and the council need to support local people in their efforts to improve the quality of life of everybody in Mayfield.”
For further information or comment contact Pat Coughlan @ 086-23836005, Jonathan O’Brien TD @ 086-0274142, or Cllr Mick Nugent @ 087-6755793
Tuesday, September 6, 2011
Jonathan O’Brien TD to Deliver Keynote Address at Sinn Féin Ard Fheis
Jonathan O’Brien TD to Deliver Keynote Address at Sinn Féin Ard Fheis
Jonathan O’Brien TD, Sinn Féin’s spokesperson on Justice, Equality and Defence, is to deliver a keynote address to the party’s Ard Fheis this weekend.
The party’s annual conference is due to take place this Friday and Saturday and this year it will be held in Belfast for the first time. The Ard Fheis will debate over 300 motions concerning issues including the economy, health, housing, and political reform.
Cork North Central TD Jonathan O’Brien will be speaking in the live session on Saturday morning. He will also open the section on Justice and Equality Saturday evening, laying out Sinn Féin’s vision of a reformed, fair and impartial justice system.
A number of motions submitted by Cork Sinn Féin are to be debated at the conference, including one calling for properties owned by NAMA which are suitable for housing to be handed over to local authorities and used to reduce the social housing list.
For further information or comment contact Jonathan O’Brien TD @ 085-2133907
Jonathan O’Brien TD, Sinn Féin’s spokesperson on Justice, Equality and Defence, is to deliver a keynote address to the party’s Ard Fheis this weekend.
The party’s annual conference is due to take place this Friday and Saturday and this year it will be held in Belfast for the first time. The Ard Fheis will debate over 300 motions concerning issues including the economy, health, housing, and political reform.
Cork North Central TD Jonathan O’Brien will be speaking in the live session on Saturday morning. He will also open the section on Justice and Equality Saturday evening, laying out Sinn Féin’s vision of a reformed, fair and impartial justice system.
A number of motions submitted by Cork Sinn Féin are to be debated at the conference, including one calling for properties owned by NAMA which are suitable for housing to be handed over to local authorities and used to reduce the social housing list.
For further information or comment contact Jonathan O’Brien TD @ 085-2133907
Saturday, September 3, 2011
Sinn Féin to Hold Public Meeting in Mayfield Next Wednesday
Sinn Féin to Hold Public Meeting in Mayfield Next Wednesday
Sinn Féin is to hold a public meeting in Mayfield on the theme of “Creating a Safer Community” next Wednesday. The meeting will take place at St Joseph’s Community Centre on the Old Youghal Road at 7.30pm and will be hosted by Sinn Fein’s Justice Spokesperson, Jonathan O’Brien TD.
Commenting, local Sinn Féin representative Pat Mr Coughlan said:
“In recent months there has been concern among residents in Ballinderry Park and some surrounding areas about an upsurge in drug-dealing involving a small number of individuals.”
“Following a meeting with members of the community last week, Sinn Féin is holding a public meeting to allow Mayfield residents to address a number of issues affecting the area.”
“These include allegations of drug-dealing, anti-social behaviour and the number of vacant houses.”
“We have invited representatives of the Gardai and Cork City Council to hear residents’ concerns.”
“The meeting will also look at the possibility of setting up a Residents’ Action Group to tackle these issues.”
For further information or comment contact Pat Coughlan @ 086-23836005, Jonathan O’Brien TD @ 086-0274142, or Cllr Mick Nugent @ 087-6755793
Sinn Féin is to hold a public meeting in Mayfield on the theme of “Creating a Safer Community” next Wednesday. The meeting will take place at St Joseph’s Community Centre on the Old Youghal Road at 7.30pm and will be hosted by Sinn Fein’s Justice Spokesperson, Jonathan O’Brien TD.
Commenting, local Sinn Féin representative Pat Mr Coughlan said:
“In recent months there has been concern among residents in Ballinderry Park and some surrounding areas about an upsurge in drug-dealing involving a small number of individuals.”
“Following a meeting with members of the community last week, Sinn Féin is holding a public meeting to allow Mayfield residents to address a number of issues affecting the area.”
“These include allegations of drug-dealing, anti-social behaviour and the number of vacant houses.”
“We have invited representatives of the Gardai and Cork City Council to hear residents’ concerns.”
“The meeting will also look at the possibility of setting up a Residents’ Action Group to tackle these issues.”
For further information or comment contact Pat Coughlan @ 086-23836005, Jonathan O’Brien TD @ 086-0274142, or Cllr Mick Nugent @ 087-6755793
Cork Sinn Féin to Launch Family Tax Campaign today
Cork Sinn Féin to Launch Family Tax Campaign today
Cork Sinn Féin will launch the party’s campaign against family taxes today at 1pm outside the GPO on Oliver Plunkett Street.
Speaking in advance of the event, Cllr Chris O’Leary said:
“The 7% Universal Social Charge and the proposed water and household charges are flat taxes which will hit working families the hardest.”
“The new household charge will be levied at exactly the same rate on every householder regardless of their income. This places the heaviest burden on those who have the least, and is grossly unfair.”
“Ordinary families are being made pay the cost of bailing out the bankers and paying off international bondholders.”
“There are alternative ways of reducing the budget deficit, and Sinn Féin has repeatedly laid them out. These include:
· Increasing Capital Gains Tax from 25% to 40%, to raise €195 million
· Increasing Capitals Acquisitions Tax from 25% to 35%, to raise €110 million
· Introducing a new 48% tax on income over €100,000, which would raise €410 million
· Standardising discretionary tax reliefs, which would raise €610 million.
“We launch our campaign against family taxes in Cork today, and will be following it up with public meetings, leafleting campaigns and other events across the city between now and the budget.”
For further information or comment contact Cllr Chris O’Leary @ 087-2794307
Cork Sinn Féin will launch the party’s campaign against family taxes today at 1pm outside the GPO on Oliver Plunkett Street.
Speaking in advance of the event, Cllr Chris O’Leary said:
“The 7% Universal Social Charge and the proposed water and household charges are flat taxes which will hit working families the hardest.”
“The new household charge will be levied at exactly the same rate on every householder regardless of their income. This places the heaviest burden on those who have the least, and is grossly unfair.”
“Ordinary families are being made pay the cost of bailing out the bankers and paying off international bondholders.”
“There are alternative ways of reducing the budget deficit, and Sinn Féin has repeatedly laid them out. These include:
· Increasing Capital Gains Tax from 25% to 40%, to raise €195 million
· Increasing Capitals Acquisitions Tax from 25% to 35%, to raise €110 million
· Introducing a new 48% tax on income over €100,000, which would raise €410 million
· Standardising discretionary tax reliefs, which would raise €610 million.
“We launch our campaign against family taxes in Cork today, and will be following it up with public meetings, leafleting campaigns and other events across the city between now and the budget.”
For further information or comment contact Cllr Chris O’Leary @ 087-2794307
Monday, August 29, 2011
Council Can Help Reduce Litter in Knocknaheeny- Nugent
Council Can Help Reduce Litter in Knocknaheeny- Nugent
Sinn Féin councillor Mick Nugent today said Cork City Council could do more to support residents in Knocknaheeny to prevent litter in the area.
Cllr Nugent said:
“The news that Knocknaheeny was identified as a litter blackspot in the Irish Business Against Litter survey is disappointing. It must be borne in mind however that this is the area’s first time to be included in the survey and that as a neighbourhood of the city it is not strictly comparable to towns like Killarney or Cobh.”
“Local people in Knocknaheeny take pride in their area and are willing to do their part to keep it looking well. Evidence of this is the recent community clean-up, in which I was happy to participate.”
“However there are aspects of council policy which do not help. The large number of empty and boarded-up houses in Knocknaheeny is one. As I have pointed out before, these have become dumping grounds which degrade the appearance of the area.”
“The council needs to move faster to allocate these houses to some of the almost 9,000 people on the housing list. It also needs to give more resources to the community warden and the local council staff, who are doing very good work.”
“If the council shows the way, I have no doubt that the local community will rally to make Knocknaheeny litter free.”
For further information contact Cllr Mick Nugent @ 087-6755793
Sinn Féin councillor Mick Nugent today said Cork City Council could do more to support residents in Knocknaheeny to prevent litter in the area.
Cllr Nugent said:
“The news that Knocknaheeny was identified as a litter blackspot in the Irish Business Against Litter survey is disappointing. It must be borne in mind however that this is the area’s first time to be included in the survey and that as a neighbourhood of the city it is not strictly comparable to towns like Killarney or Cobh.”
“Local people in Knocknaheeny take pride in their area and are willing to do their part to keep it looking well. Evidence of this is the recent community clean-up, in which I was happy to participate.”
“However there are aspects of council policy which do not help. The large number of empty and boarded-up houses in Knocknaheeny is one. As I have pointed out before, these have become dumping grounds which degrade the appearance of the area.”
“The council needs to move faster to allocate these houses to some of the almost 9,000 people on the housing list. It also needs to give more resources to the community warden and the local council staff, who are doing very good work.”
“If the council shows the way, I have no doubt that the local community will rally to make Knocknaheeny litter free.”
For further information contact Cllr Mick Nugent @ 087-6755793
Government Must Take Action on Fuel Poverty- Nugent
Government Must Take Action on Fuel Poverty- Nugent
Speaking after the announcement by the ESB that it will be hiking electricity prices by 12% from October, Sinn Féin councillor Mick Nugent has called on the government to reverse cuts in the gas and electricity allowance for the elderly.
Cllr Nugent said:
“Yesterday’s announcement by the ESB that electricity prices will be going up by 12% in October follows an earlier hike in gas prices of 22%.”
“At the same time as gas and electricity prices are going up, the government is imposing a 19% cut on gas and electricity allowances for elderly people.”
“Fuel poverty contributes to up to 2,000 deaths across Ireland every year. With the prospect of another hard winter ahead, it is vital that elderly people are able to heat their homes.”
“The government should immediately reinstate the full gas and electricity allowances for elderly people. It should also give some relief to hard-pressed householders by reducing VAT on fuel in the next budget.”
For further information contact Cllr Mick Nugent @ 087-6755793
Speaking after the announcement by the ESB that it will be hiking electricity prices by 12% from October, Sinn Féin councillor Mick Nugent has called on the government to reverse cuts in the gas and electricity allowance for the elderly.
Cllr Nugent said:
“Yesterday’s announcement by the ESB that electricity prices will be going up by 12% in October follows an earlier hike in gas prices of 22%.”
“At the same time as gas and electricity prices are going up, the government is imposing a 19% cut on gas and electricity allowances for elderly people.”
“Fuel poverty contributes to up to 2,000 deaths across Ireland every year. With the prospect of another hard winter ahead, it is vital that elderly people are able to heat their homes.”
“The government should immediately reinstate the full gas and electricity allowances for elderly people. It should also give some relief to hard-pressed householders by reducing VAT on fuel in the next budget.”
For further information contact Cllr Mick Nugent @ 087-6755793
Government Must Take Action on Fuel Poverty- Nugent Speaking after the announcement by the ESB that it will be hiking electricity prices by 12% from
Government Must Take Action on Fuel Poverty- Nugent
Speaking after the announcement by the ESB that it will be hiking electricity prices by 12% from October, Sinn Féin councillor Mick Nugent has called on the government to reverse cuts in the gas and electricity allowance for the elderly.
Cllr Nugent said:
“Yesterday’s announcement by the ESB that electricity prices will be going up by 12% in October follows an earlier hike in gas prices of 22%.”
“At the same time as gas and electricity prices are going up, the government is imposing a 19% cut on gas and electricity allowances for elderly people.”
“Fuel poverty contributes to up to 2,000 deaths across Ireland every year. With the prospect of another hard winter ahead, it is vital that elderly people are able to heat their homes.”
“The government should immediately reinstate the full gas and electricity allowances for elderly people. It should also give some relief to hard-pressed householders by reducing VAT on fuel in the next budget.”
For further information contact Cllr Mick Nugent @ 087-6755793
Speaking after the announcement by the ESB that it will be hiking electricity prices by 12% from October, Sinn Féin councillor Mick Nugent has called on the government to reverse cuts in the gas and electricity allowance for the elderly.
Cllr Nugent said:
“Yesterday’s announcement by the ESB that electricity prices will be going up by 12% in October follows an earlier hike in gas prices of 22%.”
“At the same time as gas and electricity prices are going up, the government is imposing a 19% cut on gas and electricity allowances for elderly people.”
“Fuel poverty contributes to up to 2,000 deaths across Ireland every year. With the prospect of another hard winter ahead, it is vital that elderly people are able to heat their homes.”
“The government should immediately reinstate the full gas and electricity allowances for elderly people. It should also give some relief to hard-pressed householders by reducing VAT on fuel in the next budget.”
For further information contact Cllr Mick Nugent @ 087-6755793
Council Engaged in a Deliberate Campaign of Misinformation – O’Leary
Council Engaged in a Deliberate Campaign of Misinformation – O’Leary
Sinn Féin councillor Chris O’Leary tonight accused council officials of a deliberate campaign of misinformation over the controversial €300,000 revamp of the Lord Mayor’s chambers. He was responding to the council’s statement which claimed members had voted to approve the expenditure.
Cllr O’Leary said:
“Today’s statement by Cork City Council, which claims the elected members voted to endorse the expenditure of €300,000 on the Lord Mayor’s suite at City Hall, is completely untrue. The measure in question was never voted upon, as minutes of the relevant council meeting clearly record.”
“At the council’s meeting on 13th June 2011 the City Manager presented council with a report titled “Update on Capital Expenditure Programme”. One item in this report – alongside an announcement that funds for housing maintenance were to be cut by €700,000 – was the statement that €250,000 had been set aside for improvements to City Hall.”
“I attempted to query the report, only to be ruled out of order on a number of occasions when I sought to have it put to a vote. The meeting was subsequently adjourned for a brief period. No vote was taken on the report, which was simply “noted” by the council. This is clearly recorded in the minutes of the meeting, under item 4, which can be accessed publicly on the council’s website. See http://www.corkcity.ie/services/corporateaffairs/minutesofordinarymeetings/Min.s%20Council%20Meeting%20130611.pdf���
“Since then the expenditure in question has increased to €300,000 – again without any consultation with or vote in the council – and it has transpired that the bulk of the money is to be spent on the Lord Mayor’s suite in the building. Tens of thousands are to be spent on carpets and interior designers for the Mayor and Lady Mayoress, while council tenants have to put up with rising damp and rotting windows.”
“The statement from City Hall is a case of gross and deliberate misinformation. It is bad enough that council officials would sanction an abuse of public money on this scale; it is even worse that they would put out untrue statements in the media in an attempt to justify it.”
For further information or comment contact Cllr Chris O’Leary @ 087-2794307
Sinn Féin councillor Chris O’Leary tonight accused council officials of a deliberate campaign of misinformation over the controversial €300,000 revamp of the Lord Mayor’s chambers. He was responding to the council’s statement which claimed members had voted to approve the expenditure.
Cllr O’Leary said:
“Today’s statement by Cork City Council, which claims the elected members voted to endorse the expenditure of €300,000 on the Lord Mayor’s suite at City Hall, is completely untrue. The measure in question was never voted upon, as minutes of the relevant council meeting clearly record.”
“At the council’s meeting on 13th June 2011 the City Manager presented council with a report titled “Update on Capital Expenditure Programme”. One item in this report – alongside an announcement that funds for housing maintenance were to be cut by €700,000 – was the statement that €250,000 had been set aside for improvements to City Hall.”
“I attempted to query the report, only to be ruled out of order on a number of occasions when I sought to have it put to a vote. The meeting was subsequently adjourned for a brief period. No vote was taken on the report, which was simply “noted” by the council. This is clearly recorded in the minutes of the meeting, under item 4, which can be accessed publicly on the council’s website. See http://www.corkcity.ie/services/corporateaffairs/minutesofordinarymeetings/Min.s%20Council%20Meeting%20130611.pdf���
“Since then the expenditure in question has increased to €300,000 – again without any consultation with or vote in the council – and it has transpired that the bulk of the money is to be spent on the Lord Mayor’s suite in the building. Tens of thousands are to be spent on carpets and interior designers for the Mayor and Lady Mayoress, while council tenants have to put up with rising damp and rotting windows.”
“The statement from City Hall is a case of gross and deliberate misinformation. It is bad enough that council officials would sanction an abuse of public money on this scale; it is even worse that they would put out untrue statements in the media in an attempt to justify it.”
For further information or comment contact Cllr Chris O’Leary @ 087-2794307
Thursday, August 25, 2011
Manager Challenged on €300,000 Revamp of Lord Mayor’s Chambers- O'Leary
Manager Challenged on €300,000 Revamp of Lord Mayor’s Chambers- O'Leary
Sinn Féin councillor Chris O’Leary has asked the City Manager to explain why the council is planning to spend €300,000 on a revamp of the Lord Mayor’s chambers at City Hall at a time when council services are being cut back.
Cllr O’Leary said: “The City Council is planning to spend €300,000 renovating the Lord Mayor’s and Lady Mayoress’s chambers at City Hall. Together with the €100,000 cost of the Mayor’s salary and expenses, this will make him one of the most expensive office holders in Europe next year.” “At the same time, council services are facing deep cuts. Elderly tenants are being denied basic maintenance to their homes.” “This news comes in the same week that it was revealed how former Fianna Fail ministers, including Cork’s Billy Kelleher, are claiming thousands in ministerial severance payments on top of their Dail pensions.
It seems that some elements of our political class remain completely disconnected from the harsh reality that most people in this country are facing.” “I think the City Manager needs to explain to the people of Cork how an expenditure of €300,000 on the Lord Mayor’s chamber is justifiable at a time when council programmes are being cut back for lack of funds.”
For further information or comment contact Cllr Chris O’Leary @ 087-2794307
Sinn Féin councillor Chris O’Leary has asked the City Manager to explain why the council is planning to spend €300,000 on a revamp of the Lord Mayor’s chambers at City Hall at a time when council services are being cut back.
Cllr O’Leary said: “The City Council is planning to spend €300,000 renovating the Lord Mayor’s and Lady Mayoress’s chambers at City Hall. Together with the €100,000 cost of the Mayor’s salary and expenses, this will make him one of the most expensive office holders in Europe next year.” “At the same time, council services are facing deep cuts. Elderly tenants are being denied basic maintenance to their homes.” “This news comes in the same week that it was revealed how former Fianna Fail ministers, including Cork’s Billy Kelleher, are claiming thousands in ministerial severance payments on top of their Dail pensions.
It seems that some elements of our political class remain completely disconnected from the harsh reality that most people in this country are facing.” “I think the City Manager needs to explain to the people of Cork how an expenditure of €300,000 on the Lord Mayor’s chamber is justifiable at a time when council programmes are being cut back for lack of funds.”
For further information or comment contact Cllr Chris O’Leary @ 087-2794307
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
Sinn Féin Councillors Support North Main Street Traders
Sinn Féin Councillors Support North Main Street Traders
The leader of the Sinn Féin group on Cork City Council, Cllr Chris O’Leary, has said the council needs to engage urgently with traders on North Main Street about improving access to the area.
Cllr O’Leary said:
“Yesterday I and my colleague Cllr Mick Nugent met with traders in the area who raised a number of issues affecting the street.”
“Ongoing works in the Coal Quay are having a detrimental impact on the area by making it difficult for motorists to access North Main Street or secure parking nearby. This in turn is causing local businesses to suffer.”
“Traders were also concerned that the street is being left behind and is not receiving the investment and attention from the council that other city centre areas, such as Patrick Street and the Coal Quay, have received.”
“They have requested a meeting with council officials, and the Sinn Féin councillors will support their efforts to have these issues addressed. In particular, the local authority needs to look seriously at how it can minimise disruption to traffic and pedestrians resulting from the work at the Coal Quay.”
For further information or comment contact Cllr Chris O’Leary @ 087-2794307
The leader of the Sinn Féin group on Cork City Council, Cllr Chris O’Leary, has said the council needs to engage urgently with traders on North Main Street about improving access to the area.
Cllr O’Leary said:
“Yesterday I and my colleague Cllr Mick Nugent met with traders in the area who raised a number of issues affecting the street.”
“Ongoing works in the Coal Quay are having a detrimental impact on the area by making it difficult for motorists to access North Main Street or secure parking nearby. This in turn is causing local businesses to suffer.”
“Traders were also concerned that the street is being left behind and is not receiving the investment and attention from the council that other city centre areas, such as Patrick Street and the Coal Quay, have received.”
“They have requested a meeting with council officials, and the Sinn Féin councillors will support their efforts to have these issues addressed. In particular, the local authority needs to look seriously at how it can minimise disruption to traffic and pedestrians resulting from the work at the Coal Quay.”
For further information or comment contact Cllr Chris O’Leary @ 087-2794307
Minister Must Intervene to Secure Alternative Carrier- O'Brien
Minister Must Intervene to Secure Alternative Carrier- O'Brien
Sinn Féin TD Jonathan O’Brien has called on the Minister for Transport to intervene to secure an alternative carrier to continue the Cork-Dublin air connection after Ryanair’s announcement that it will discontinue flights on the route from 30th October.
Deputy O’Brien said:
“Ryanair’s decision is an extremely disappointing one for Cork. It is vital for the economic development of the city that it has effective transport links and the absence of a direct air link to Dublin will leave a major gap.”
“I believe the Minister for Transport needs to intervene directly to work with the airport to secure an alternative carrier for the route.”
“They must also examine whether, as Ryanair has claimed, the level of charges at Dublin and Cork airports are a disincentive to airlines and what steps can be taken to make Cork airport more competitive.”
For further information contact Deputy Jonathan O’Brien at 085-2133907
Sinn Féin TD Jonathan O’Brien has called on the Minister for Transport to intervene to secure an alternative carrier to continue the Cork-Dublin air connection after Ryanair’s announcement that it will discontinue flights on the route from 30th October.
Deputy O’Brien said:
“Ryanair’s decision is an extremely disappointing one for Cork. It is vital for the economic development of the city that it has effective transport links and the absence of a direct air link to Dublin will leave a major gap.”
“I believe the Minister for Transport needs to intervene directly to work with the airport to secure an alternative carrier for the route.”
“They must also examine whether, as Ryanair has claimed, the level of charges at Dublin and Cork airports are a disincentive to airlines and what steps can be taken to make Cork airport more competitive.”
For further information contact Deputy Jonathan O’Brien at 085-2133907
Friday, August 5, 2011
“Cash for Gold” Outlets Need Regulation
“Cash for Gold” Outlets Need Regulation
Sinn Féin councillor Mick Nugent has said the “cash for gold” outlets which have proliferated across the city in recent years are badly in need of regulation, after Sinn Féin representatives received several complaints about their practices.
Cllr Nugent said:
“In recent years dealers offering “cash for gold” have opening across the city. It appears that anybody can open one of these shops, and the sector is completely unregulated.”
“No attempt is made by these dealers to trace the origin of gold and jewellery which is presented to them. Anybody can walk in off the street with gold and walk out again with cash.”
“This creates an obvious opportunity for criminals.”
“In recent weeks a number of complaints have been made to Sinn Féin representatives about these outlets, including by people who have been the victims of crime.”
“There is an urgent need for regulation of “cash for gold” dealerships. Their proprietors should be required to hold a licence, and an obligation should be placed on them to accept gold only where the person offering it for sale can offer reasonable proof that it was legitimately theirs.”
For further information contact Cllr Mick Nugent @ 087-6755793
Sinn Féin councillor Mick Nugent has said the “cash for gold” outlets which have proliferated across the city in recent years are badly in need of regulation, after Sinn Féin representatives received several complaints about their practices.
Cllr Nugent said:
“In recent years dealers offering “cash for gold” have opening across the city. It appears that anybody can open one of these shops, and the sector is completely unregulated.”
“No attempt is made by these dealers to trace the origin of gold and jewellery which is presented to them. Anybody can walk in off the street with gold and walk out again with cash.”
“This creates an obvious opportunity for criminals.”
“In recent weeks a number of complaints have been made to Sinn Féin representatives about these outlets, including by people who have been the victims of crime.”
“There is an urgent need for regulation of “cash for gold” dealerships. Their proprietors should be required to hold a licence, and an obligation should be placed on them to accept gold only where the person offering it for sale can offer reasonable proof that it was legitimately theirs.”
For further information contact Cllr Mick Nugent @ 087-6755793
Friday, July 29, 2011
Gas Price Rise Will Push More Families into Arrears
Gas Price Rise Will Push More Families into Arrears
Sinn Féin councillor Mick Nugent has said the 22% increase in gas prices approved by the Commission for Energy Regulation will push more families into arrears, and called on the government to develop Ireland’s own energy resources.
Cllr Nugent said:
“The news that gas prices are to increase by 22% from October comes as another blow to families who are struggling to make ends meet.”
“It will mean an increase of €160 annually in the average gas bill. Customers of Bord Gais Energy have already been hit by a 12% increase in electricity prices earlier this month.”
“More than 114,000 customers of Bord Gais are now in arrears of two months or more. The latest increase – which will come into effect at the start of winter – will leave even more people facing a choice between heating their homes and running up bills they cannot pay.”
“While the increase reflects rising gas prices on international markets, I share the view of the National Consumer Agency that the customer should not have the bear the whole burden.”
“There is also the bigger issue here of Ireland’s dependence on imported energy when we have vast potential energy resources off our West Coast. The Corrib Field alone contains approximately €50 billion worth of proven gas reserves. These resources, along with our renewable energy potential, should be developed under state ownership in the interests of the Irish people. Instead Corrib gas field has been handed to international corporations who will pay no royalties and hardly any tax to the state.”
“Ireland has the potential to be energy independent within a generation, and in a time of rising energy prices the government needs to make this a central plank of national policy. Otherwise consumers will continue to ne hit by severe price rises like that which Bord Gais has just announced.”
For further information contact Cllr Mick Nugent @ 087-6755793
Sinn Féin councillor Mick Nugent has said the 22% increase in gas prices approved by the Commission for Energy Regulation will push more families into arrears, and called on the government to develop Ireland’s own energy resources.
Cllr Nugent said:
“The news that gas prices are to increase by 22% from October comes as another blow to families who are struggling to make ends meet.”
“It will mean an increase of €160 annually in the average gas bill. Customers of Bord Gais Energy have already been hit by a 12% increase in electricity prices earlier this month.”
“More than 114,000 customers of Bord Gais are now in arrears of two months or more. The latest increase – which will come into effect at the start of winter – will leave even more people facing a choice between heating their homes and running up bills they cannot pay.”
“While the increase reflects rising gas prices on international markets, I share the view of the National Consumer Agency that the customer should not have the bear the whole burden.”
“There is also the bigger issue here of Ireland’s dependence on imported energy when we have vast potential energy resources off our West Coast. The Corrib Field alone contains approximately €50 billion worth of proven gas reserves. These resources, along with our renewable energy potential, should be developed under state ownership in the interests of the Irish people. Instead Corrib gas field has been handed to international corporations who will pay no royalties and hardly any tax to the state.”
“Ireland has the potential to be energy independent within a generation, and in a time of rising energy prices the government needs to make this a central plank of national policy. Otherwise consumers will continue to ne hit by severe price rises like that which Bord Gais has just announced.”
For further information contact Cllr Mick Nugent @ 087-6755793
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
Housing System Has Fallen Apart – O’Leary
Housing System Has Fallen Apart – O’Leary
The city council’s system of housing provision has fallen apart, and Sinn Féin councillors along with Jonathan O’Brien TD have written to the City Manager requesting an immediate meeting with him and his top housing officials, according to Cllr Chris O’Leary.
Over the past year:
· The number on the waiting list for social housing has increased to 8,931
· The number of vacant houses awaiting repair has risen to 459
· The capital budget for housing has been reduced, and government funding for maintenance and extensions has fallen from €625,000 in 2010 to €558,084 for 2011. Recently the Manager proposed even deeper cuts in maintenance.
· Motions passed by the council to introduce a charter of rights for tenants and to shift the allocations system to a points-based one which would be accessible to members of the public have not been implemented
Cllr O’Leary said:
“At this point, the system of housing provision within Cork City Council has quite simply fallen apart.”
“The government recruitment embargo and budget cuts have left the city council unable to deliver on housing, But even in the areas where the council could make a difference, it is falling down.”
“In the past year Sinn Féin councillors succeeded in having two important motions on housing passed by the council. One would have introduced a charter of rights for housing tenants and housing applicants. This would have guaranteed them a minimum standard of treatment from council officials, so that, for example, voice messages and letters would be acknowledged and people would be informed about the progress of their application. The second motion mandated the introduction of a transparent, points based system under which housing applicants would be given a private PIN number that would let them see how long they stood to wait for a house and where they were on the list. It is the absence of this kind of information which many applicants find most frustrating.”
“Despite these motions being agreed by the council, nothing has been done to implement them by the housing department.”
“The council’s housing department is now a black hole into which claims disappear and from which no information can be extracted. Housing applicants and tenants are routinely treated by officials in a way that denies them the most basic dignity. Elected members making representations on behalf of constituents are finding it impossible to get a response. Letters and phone calls go unacknowledged, and an automated response system which was introduced last year does not work.”
“I have now written to the City Manager, on behalf of the Sinn Féin council team and Deputy Jonathan O’Brien, to request an immediate meeting with himself and the top officials in the housing department. The shambolic farce that is housing provision in Cork City Council cannot be tolerated any longer. The Manager needs to accept that the system has broken down, and begin a radical overhaul of the department’s proceedures.”
For further information or comment contact Cllr Chris O’Leary @ 087-2794307
The city council’s system of housing provision has fallen apart, and Sinn Féin councillors along with Jonathan O’Brien TD have written to the City Manager requesting an immediate meeting with him and his top housing officials, according to Cllr Chris O’Leary.
Over the past year:
· The number on the waiting list for social housing has increased to 8,931
· The number of vacant houses awaiting repair has risen to 459
· The capital budget for housing has been reduced, and government funding for maintenance and extensions has fallen from €625,000 in 2010 to €558,084 for 2011. Recently the Manager proposed even deeper cuts in maintenance.
· Motions passed by the council to introduce a charter of rights for tenants and to shift the allocations system to a points-based one which would be accessible to members of the public have not been implemented
Cllr O’Leary said:
“At this point, the system of housing provision within Cork City Council has quite simply fallen apart.”
“The government recruitment embargo and budget cuts have left the city council unable to deliver on housing, But even in the areas where the council could make a difference, it is falling down.”
“In the past year Sinn Féin councillors succeeded in having two important motions on housing passed by the council. One would have introduced a charter of rights for housing tenants and housing applicants. This would have guaranteed them a minimum standard of treatment from council officials, so that, for example, voice messages and letters would be acknowledged and people would be informed about the progress of their application. The second motion mandated the introduction of a transparent, points based system under which housing applicants would be given a private PIN number that would let them see how long they stood to wait for a house and where they were on the list. It is the absence of this kind of information which many applicants find most frustrating.”
“Despite these motions being agreed by the council, nothing has been done to implement them by the housing department.”
“The council’s housing department is now a black hole into which claims disappear and from which no information can be extracted. Housing applicants and tenants are routinely treated by officials in a way that denies them the most basic dignity. Elected members making representations on behalf of constituents are finding it impossible to get a response. Letters and phone calls go unacknowledged, and an automated response system which was introduced last year does not work.”
“I have now written to the City Manager, on behalf of the Sinn Féin council team and Deputy Jonathan O’Brien, to request an immediate meeting with himself and the top officials in the housing department. The shambolic farce that is housing provision in Cork City Council cannot be tolerated any longer. The Manager needs to accept that the system has broken down, and begin a radical overhaul of the department’s proceedures.”
For further information or comment contact Cllr Chris O’Leary @ 087-2794307
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