Republican Youth joins with Basque Community for Day of Citizen Protest

Republican Youth joins with Basque Community for Day of Citizen Protest Sinn Fein Republican Youth will join together with members of the Basque Community for the Day of Citizen protest this Saturday in Daunt Square. The protest, which starts at 2.30pm, intends to highlight the ongoing situation in the Basque country and show solidarity to the political prisoners. The campaign believes it is necessary to respect the basic human rights of the Basque prisoners including to repatriate to Euskal Herria all the Basque prisoners, releasing prisoners with terminal and serious illness and to cease extension of sentences. Currently, members of SEGI (Basque pro-independence left youth organisation) have been arrested and imprisoned for membership of SEGI. Republican Youth wish to show solidarity with the youth organisation in their campaign for peace and justice. Chairperson of Cork Republican Youth, Shane O’Rourke, hopes that many people will support the protest. Mr O'Rourke said: “Republican Youth are supporting this protest against the disgraceful treatment of Basque political prisoners. Members of SEGI are arrested for possession of items such as t-shirts, CD’s and posters promoting Basque independence. It is unjust, unfair and a disgusting violation of their rights as human beings.”

Cork City Labour Party representatives should stop supporting our ‘Tory’ Government – O’Shea.

Cork City Labour Party representatives should stop supporting our ‘Tory’ Government – O’Shea. Sinn Fein representative and local election candidate, Shane O’Shea, has called on Labour Party representatives in Cork city to stop propping up a Fine Gael Government implementing Fianna Fáil designed austerity policies. Mr. O’Shea (29) who will be the running-mate of Cllr.Chris O’Leary in the South-East ward believes that the current arrangement is not what ordinary Labour supporters want or what they voted for. Mr.O Shea said: “The Labour Party should now pull out of that dysfunctional coalition. Let Fine Gael go into government with Fianna Fáil if they wish and they can implement their failed economic model together. I don’t accept that all Labour representatives in Cork are happy with the direction that their party has taken since 2011. They should stop supporting what is effectively a Tory government in Leinster House.” “Before the last general election, the Labour leadership spoke of equality and radical reform and were given a mandate, on this basis, by the people of this state. That message was relayed to the people of Cork by Kathleen Lynch & Ciaran Lynch. Unfortunately, since they entered Government they have abandoned all left-wing principles and they have become subservient to conservative economic agenda of Fine Gael.” “A genuine Labour Party, the one envisaged by Connolly and Larkin, would never stand over the cruel and regressive measures taken by the Government. Margaret Thatcher may be dead but Thatcherism lives on in the policies of this coalition." " I am calling on Kathleen Lynch & Ciaran Lynch along with all the Labour Councillors in Cork to now recognise how far their party have moved from core Labour policy. The rejection of Croke Park II, by the trade union movement, should be a serious wake-up call for them. They should tell their party leadership to leave the Fine Gael Coalition or they will withdraw their support. "

Mary Lou McDonald welcomes Cork City Council’s call for Government apology to Bethany Home survivors

Mary Lou McDonald welcomes Cork City Council’s call for Government apology to Bethany Home survivors Sinn Féin Deputy Leader Mary Lou McDonald TD today welcomed Cork City Council’s decision to pass a Sinn Féin motion calling on the Government to provide a full apology to the surviving women and men of Bethany Home and to immediately put in place a mechanism of redress. Deputy McDonald said: “A motion calling for an apology and redress for Bethany Home survivors put forward by Sinn Féin Councillors Chris O’Leary and Fiona Kerin’s was successfully passed at last night’s Cork City Council meeting. “Cork City Council’s support for the survivors of Bethany Home is welcome and hopefully other Councils will follow. “State inspections of Bethany under the Registration of Maternity Homes Act record the horrendous neglect of children in the home. “Some 219 Bethany children died in this small institution between 1922 and 1949 and lay buried in unmarked graves in Mount Jerome Cemetery. “Neglect in Bethany Home was in some instances barbaric and in others wilfully negligent. Labour and Fine Gael cannot continue to ignore their responsibility on behalf of the state to the surviving women and men.” ENDS

Graffiti removed from Republican headstones after local activists rally

Graffiti removed from Republican headstones after local activists rally The graffiti that tarnished headstones in the republican plot at St. Finbarr’s Cemetery has been removed in time for today’s annual Easter Rising Commemoration. The mindless vandalism has been fully cleaned from the graves, including that of former Lord Mayor Tomás MacCurtain, following a two day cleaning operation carried out by members of The Phoenix Historical Society, Sinn Féin and concerned members of the community. Sinn Féin Councillor Mick Nugent, who spent a great deal of time at the plot of over the last forty-eight hours, has thanked everyone who took part in the cleaning effort and he moved to reassure members of the public that the plot is now in immaculate condition ahead of tomorrow’s ceremonies. Councillor Nugent said: “After the initial understandable shock and anger, we got down to the work of returning the headstones to their rightful condition. It has been a very busy couple of days but I am glad to say that the Republican plot is now in pristine condition for today’s Easter Rising commemoration.” “I want to thank all those who took part in the clean-up operation and those who expressed their disgust at such an act. Regardless of political perspective, most would acknowledge that this graves symbolise a very significant strand of both Irish and local Cork history. I genuinely hope that those responsible will now reflect on their actions and feel some sense of remorse. “But the main message is positive. The mindless tagging has been removed and we are ready to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice in the cause of Irish freedom today. We would encourage all the people of Cork to come along and join the ceremony. The Republican plot in St.Finbarr’s cemetery is the final resting place for many of those to whom we owe so much. It would be a fitting tribute to their memories if we can match the crowd that came out last year when Gerry Adams gave the main oration. It would also send a message to the vandals that we, as a community, abhor their behaviour and the desecration of our history.” The commemoration will assemble at 2.30pm at the National Monument on the Grand Parade and will parade to St.Finbarr’s Cemetery via Barrack Street. The main oration will be delivered by Sinn Féin Social Protection Spokesperson Aengus Ó Snodaigh. Schedule of Easter Rising Commemorations throughout Cork: •11:00am Macroom. Wreath-laying ceremony •11:00am Youghal. Speaker: Jonathan O’Brien •12 noon Clonakilty. Speaker: Chris O’Leary •12:30pm Bandon. Speaker: Aengus Ó Snodaigh •2:30pm Cork City. Speaker: Aengus Ó Snodaigh ENDS

Fine Gael TD’s objection to Easter Lily another example of anti-Republican bias

Fine Gael TD’s objection to Easter Lily another example of anti-Republican bias Cork North Central Sinn Féin TD, Jonathan O’Brien, has said that the objections raised by Fine Gael deputy Charlie Flanagan to the wearing of the Easter Lily in the Dáil reflected is own “deep-rooted prejudices”. During a Dáil sitting on Tuesday, Deputy Flanagan disrupted the debate when he challenged Sinn Féin TDs Brian Stanley and Michael Colreavy on the wearing of the Lily and called on the Ceann Comhairle to make a ruling on matter under the Dáil Standing Orders. Deputy O’Brien said: “The outrageous attempt by Charlie Flanagan to prevent Sinn Féin Deputies from honouring Ireland’s patriot dead by wearing a commemorative Easter Lily reflects his own deep-rooted prejudices and his loathing of all things Republican. “I would remind Deputy Flanagan that without the sacrifice of generations of men and women who fought British Imperialism, he would never have had the opportunity to stand here as a parliamentarian and make such ludicrous statements. “The offense taken by Deputy Flanagan to the wearing of an Easter Lily is in sharp contrast to the tolerance he showed last November to the display of the poppy by some his party colleagues. “Deputy Flanagan and others within Fine Gael might be ashamed of their past but they will not bully Sinn Féin TDs from wearing a symbol that commemorates the Easter Rising and the sacrifice of those who fought and died for Irish freedom.”

Very positive meeting held on Blackpool flooding issue – Gould

Very positive meeting held on Blackpool flooding issue – Gould Sinn Féin councillor Thomas Gould has described as “very positive” a meetin held today on the flooding in Blackpool last week. The meeting was attended by the City Manager Tim Lucey, The Lord Mayor John Buttimer, council officials and engineers. Also present were a number of local business owners and local councillors. Following the meeting Cllr.Gould said: “The meeting was a very positive engagement on the issues surrounding the persistent occurrences of flooding in Blackpool. The council will have a consultant engineer appointed within the next 7-10 days to carry out a study of what remedial measures that need to be carried out to reduce the risk of future flooding." “Cork City Council also proposed to install CCTV camera to monitor the trash barriers and are also going to install water level meters which will notify the community if the water levels are dangerously high. The Council are also enquiring why Met Eireann did not issue a warning before last week's flooding and they are committed to monitoring the rainfall in the future." “They have also committed to manage, monitor and maintain the river. Council will contact landowners whose property is adjacent to the river as there have been issues with trees and other debris being carried downstream that should have been secured by the landowners.” Councillor Gould also stated that it was a step forward that community involvement was seen an integral part of a response. He said: “It was agreed that monthly meetings would take place between the council and the community. The community would also have an input with the consultant engineer and that the issue of flooding would be on the agenda at the environmental meetings in City Hall. The City Manager has committed funding to help carry out remedial works and has said will do everything in his power to support Blackpool." “With regard the issue of rates and promised government funding I will continue to pursue these. I have no response from the meeting yet that was held today with the OPW but if Blackpool is to be protected from future flooding it is the job of the OPW to ensure this.” For further information please contact Cllr.Thomas Gould on 0873021551

Sinn Féin Councillor Thomas Gould walks out of City Council meeting in protest at lack of response to Blackpool flooding

Sinn Féin Councillor Thomas Gould walks out of City Council meeting in protest at lack of response to Blackpool flooding Sinn Fein Councillor Thomas Gould tonight walked out of a meeting of Cork City Council in protest at the lack of response to the recent flooding in Blackpool. Cllr. Gould said: “The OPW is sitting on a report that must still go out to tender for the design phase of the flood protection. I called for this report to be fast-tracked nine months ago. Here we now and Blackpool is flooded again and there still isn’t a credible plan in place to protect from similar disastrous events in the future.” “Last week Minister Kathleen Lynch announced that the culverts in Blackpool did not have the capacity to deal with flooding. The City Manager was asked tonight if he could confirm this information and he couldn’t do so. The only thing that the City Manager proposed to do was to monitor and maintain trash screens on the waterway up-stream from the culverts.” “No compensation will be provided to residents and business affected by the flooding. For the second time in nine months, I proposed rates waivers for those impacted and it was again rejected by the City Manager." “I asked for flood protection barriers for all the people and businesses in Blackpool that have been devastated once again. There needs to be an immediate implementation of an insurance scheme to cover people who cannot get flood insurance. If Cork City Council does help and fight for the people and businesses of Blackpool, who will?” Speaking about his decision to walk out of tonight’s meeting, Cllr.Gould said: “I couldn’t in all good conscience remain in a meeting that I felt was effectively doing absolutely nothing to address the situation in Blackpool. I wasn’t getting any credible responses to what most people would consider to be reasonable questions followings event last Thursday night. The people of Blackpool deserve much better than what went on here this evening.” For further information please contact Cllr.Thomas Gould 0873021551

Tomás MacCurtain to be honoured in Cork City this Saturday evening

Tomás MacCurtain to be honoured in Cork City this Saturday evening The annual commemoration in honour of Tomás MacCurtain will be held this coming Saturday evening. The Sinn Féin Lord Mayor of Cork was assassinated in his home in Blackpool by the RIC on March 20th 1920 on what would have been his 36th Birthday. This year marks the 93rd anniversary of his death. The commemoration will assemble at the North Cathedral at 5pm before parading to the Tomás MaCurtain monument on Great William O’Brien Street. The main speakers at the event will be Sinn Féin Cllr. Thomas Gould and the party’s second candidate in the South-East ward Shane O’Shea. The MacCurtain/MacSwiney Republican Flute Band will also be in attendance. Encouraging people to turn out for the event, Mr.O’Shea said: “Tomás MacCurtain is a Cork icon and personal hero of mine. He was a man of great conviction who led the people of Cork during the fight for independence. It is only right that we continue to keep his memory alive in his native city.” “MacCurtain demonstrated a type of leadership and a commitment to the people of Ireland that is sorely lacking by those in Government today. The commemoration is open to everyone and I would encourage people to come along and join us next Saturday evening."

Attacks on disabled deplorable----Cllr Mick Nugent

ATTACKS ON DISABLED DEPLORABLE----Cllr Mick Nugent > > The decision by the government and in particular Minister Lynch to scrap the Mobility Allowance Scheme and the Motorised Transport Grant Scheme has been strongly condemned by Sinn Féin in Cork.Speaking today Cllr Mick Nugent of Cork City council said; > > "This latest attack on people most in need,those with a disability, is nothing short of deplorable.To scrap a scheme which is the equivalent of a 20% cut in the income of a disabled person at a time when we are receiving report after report showing the levels of poverty growing in Ireland is alarming.Minister Lynch and her party have reached a new low in this decision and have again targeted those most at need and continue to allow the elite enjoy their extravagant pay and pensions." > > "Scrapping a scheme using the excuse that is illegal is a weak argument.The obvious solution is to rectify the legalities involved and avoid what has occurred causing uncertainty in a vulnerable section of society.The cut to people with disabilities is ironically nearly three times the cut the Minister herself is taking.This scheme enabled a person with a disability participate actively in the community and this cut condemns them to imprisonment in their own home.It is shameful from those in power. Cllr Mick Nugent 087-6755793

TUI right to reject Croke Park 2 – Deputy O’Brien

TUI right to reject Croke Park 2 – Deputy O’Brien 28 Feb 2013 Sinn Féin Education Spokesperson Jonathan O’Brien has said that the decision by the Teachers’ Union of Ireland to advise its members to reject the Croke Park 2 Agreement reflects the growing anger of teachers who have again been targeted by the government. Deputy O’Brien said: “I agree with the TUI's general secretary John McGowan who has described the proposals announced this week as “unacceptable” because they will have a disproportionate impact on lower paid teachers. “If Croke Park 2 is ratified then it is likely teachers will be expected to work many additional hours and there is a risk that some Primary School classes will have to double up, to numbers in excess of 40 children per classroom, so that teachers can cover for colleagues who are on certified sick leave because substitution is no longer permitted. “Yet again, the government has shown it readiness to target less well-off workers and teachers on lower pay scales, who have already endured a 14% cut in wages, will suffer the most should this deal be ratified. “Sinn Féin supports the decision of the TUI to advise its members to reject this deal which will further damage the morale and goodwill of teachers.”

Labour councillor Michael O’Connell clearly out of touch with ordinary people on expenses issue – O’Leary

Labour councillor Michael O’Connell clearly out of touch with ordinary people on expenses issue – O’Leary Sinn Féin Councillor Chris O’Leary has reacted with amazement and anger to justifications provided by Labour’s Cllr.Michael O’Connell for the fact that Cork City’s councillors ran-up over €75,000 in conference, seminar and travel expenses last year. Cllr. O’Leary said: “I think Cllr. O’Connell’s remarks show just how out of touch with ordinary people he and his Labour party colleagues have become. To say that an overnight allowance of €108 per night barely covers your discretionary costs of attending a conference is infuriating. He is saying this at a time when I have constituents who have to pay rent and feed the family from €180 for an entire week. This is from a member of a party that claims to represent the interests of working families. It’s beyond belief that he would have such an opinion.” “We have to remember that the conference fee almost always covers coffees and meals. Hotel accommodation is paid for by City Council and mileage is vouched so I cannot fathom on what the additional €108 allowance is being spent. I have a serious problem with this.” “Secondly, his claim that we don’t get paid for our time is a bizarre statement. Cllr.O’Connell receives a representation allowance, the same as the rest of the elected members of Cork City Council. So it is rubbish to say that he is not compensated for his time.” “Let me just say that I do attend conferences but I go to ones that I can afford to go to out of my own pocket. I don’t put the onus back on the council. I recently attended a conference on the reform of local government and it cost me €22 bus return from Cork to Dublin. The Sinn Féin councillors and about six other members of Cork City Council do not claim these expenses.” “Has Cllr. O’Connell simply forgotten that because of the budgetary decisions, made by the pact parties, we don’t have the money to repair roads, street lights or to upgrade facilities for the citizens of Cork? I have a very sick constituent for whom I can’t even get a door or window replaced. But that councillors should get ridiculous amounts of money to attend conferences seems to be a priority. Cllr. O’Connell needs to get real.” In the budget meetings before Christmas we put forward alternatives. We asked that an embargo be put on the conference allowances but Labour, Fine Gael and Fianna Fail councillors voted to maintain the allowances at the level at which they are currently. Even the Lord Mayor’s entertainment budget was increased by €30,000. There is a real embedded culture of entitlement amongst councillors representing the pact parties on Cork City Council and there is no hope of changing it unless we challenge it directly and openly.”

Sinn Féin to intensify campaign against Family Home Tax in Cork

Sinn Féin to intensify campaign against Family Home Tax in Cork Sinn Féin is to intensify its campaign in opposition to the Family Home Tax by holding a series of public meetings throughout Cork in the coming weeks. The first of these meetings will take place on Monday March 4th at 7.30pm in Riverstown Community Centre, Glanmire. The main speaker will be Sinn Féin’s Education Spokesperson and Cork North-Central TD Deputy Jonathan O’Brien. Meetings will also take place on the following dates: · Thursday, March 7th, 7.30pm – Darby Arms, Ballincollig. · Monday, March 11th, 7.30pm – Carrigaline Court Hotel, Carrigaline. · Friday, March 22nd, 7.30pm – St. Joseph’s Community Centre, Mayfield. Sinn Féin is also planning to hold similar meetings in Bishopstown/Togher, Ballyphehane, Mahon/Blackrock and further meetings on the Northside of the city. Sinn Féin leader on Cork City Council Cllr. Chris O’Leary said: “We are strongly opposed to the inequitable Family Home Tax. That it really is a Family Home Tax and not a Property Tax is proven by the fact that it will be levied on the rents of local authority tenants who do not own the council properties which are their homes. In most cases these are families and individuals on low or moderate incomes and they are to be further levied with this unjust tax. “In the current economic climate it is another burden on struggling families." “We believe such a property tax on rents for properties which they do not own would be open to legal challenge. We have learned this week that the Fine Gael/Labour Government is planning to legislate to require local authorities to impose this tax on tenants.” “This campaign has the aim of encouraging members of the public to pressure on their local TDs, who may support the tax, to change their stance and to vote in favour of legislation to scrap the tax of the family home and the Household Charge. Sinn Féin has drafted legislation to repeal the tax just as the party did with the Household Charge. It is ready to go and our team in the Dáil will table it at the earliest opportunity. “These series of meetings will give people an opportunity to engage with the party on the issue in a public setting.”

Republican Youth Runs Laps for Charity

Republican Youth Runs Laps for Charity Members of Sinn Fein Republican Youth Cork are normally seen to be pounding the pavements with leaflets in their hands. However, this was not the case at the weekend. Alongside members of the Martin Hurson Cumann UCC, RY were out in force, with public representatives, to help raise money for the Irish Cancer Society. A 24-hour relay race was hosted by the charity in the Mardyke Arena, UCC. It took place between Friday at 6pm right through until Saturday afternoon. Societies from the college were asked to take part in the event. Sinn Fein was the only political party on campus to entered a team. The event was challenging but great fun all the same. Each team had to have a member on the track at all times. Republican Youth made sure at least two people were doing it to keep each other company. Members walked, ran, skipped and jogged laps of the track. Throughout the course of the night, various games were played to keep things lively. Different laps were introduced including the “Congo Lap” and the “Piggy Back Lap”. Although they would rather be in bed, Republican Youth took part in the games. During the night, paper bags with candles in them were lit. The bags had messages on them to survivors of people that had died from cancer. These bags lined the side of the track. Sinn Féin Republican Youth representative for Munster Orla O'Leary said: "Despite the freezing cold winds and the long hours, we all kept going. Every member knew someone with cancer or who had it and we were determined to raise money for a deserving charity. We were delighted that local councillors Chris O'leary and Mick Nugent also came on board. Although the fundraising is still ongoing and times are tough, we have raised over €200 so far." Ends For further information please contact SF RY Munster representative Orla O'Leary on 0876158143

Cllr.Thomas Gould seeks improvements to Fitzgerald Park Playground

Cllr.Thomas Gould seeks improvements to Fitzgerald Park Playground Sinn Fein Councillor Thomas Gould has called on Cork City Council to allocate funding for improving the existing playground facilities at Fitzgerald Park. Cllr.Gould stated that the need for investment in the upgrading of recreational amenities for children, such as swings and slides, should not be ignored as the plans for the Sky Garden move forward. Cllr.Gould said: “The current facilities are quite good but they will not be fit-for-purpose in terms of capacity. The council has invested approximately €2.5 million in the Sky Garden with the objective of increasing footfall in the environs of Fitzgerald Park. I think it would be quite neglectful not to provide funding for upgrading the playground especially when we expect an increased number of families and children to be making use of the area in the not too distant future. Councillor Gould raised his concerns at committee level on Cork City Council and has achieved some initial success in the matter. “I find it more than a bit ridiculous that millions would be put towards the development of a major new attraction without considering improvements to existing amenities. This is not strategic thinking or an integrated approach. I have secured a commitment from the appropriate committee to look at how money can be directed towards upgrading the existing playground.” For further information please contact Cllr. Thomas Gould on 0873021551

GOVERNMENT HOME BUILDING PROGRAMME NEEDED TO DEAL WITH LOCAL AUTHORITY HOUSING LISTS – NUGENT

GOVERNMENT HOME BUILDING PROGRAMME NEEDED TO DEAL WITH LOCAL AUTHORITY HOUSING LISTS – NUGENT Sinn Féin councillor Mick Nugent has said that a government home building programme would go a long way to cutting the numbers on the housing waiting list of Cork City Council. Cllr.Nugent said: “There are nearly 100,000 households on council waiting lists throughout the state. The property bubble fanned by developers and the Government during the Celtic-Tiger era did nothing to solve the housing crisis. Anybody who suggested the prioritising of social housing during the boom was treated with scorn and almost laughed at.” “It is clear that we must now focus on the development and roll-out of a government building programme to meet the needs of these 100,000 families and radically reduce the names which have almost become a permanent fixture on council waiting lists." “There is a need for well planned housing estates built with purpose. Now is the perfect environment to roll-out such a programme with the cost of materials and land being much cheaper. Sinn Féin believes that services, infrastructure and community should be central to any social housing plan. A building programme would be an extremely positive development and would demonstrate a clear commitment to tackling the housing crisis, a crisis that has taken a firm root in Cork City.” ENDS For further information please contact Cllr.Mick Nugent on 0876755793

LABOUR PARTY COUNCILLORS SHOULD URGE GOVERNMENT COLLEAGUES TO REJECT PLANS TO TAX CHILD BENEFIT - KERINS

LABOUR PARTY COUNCILLORS SHOULD URGE GOVERNMENT COLLEAGUES TO REJECT PLANS TO TAX CHILD BENEFIT - KERINS Sinn Féin councillor Fiona Kerins is calling on Labour Party representatives on Cork City Council to stand up to their colleagues in Government on plans to tax or introduce a two tier system for child benefit. Cllr. Kerins’ comments come falling leaks from an expert group report advising that child benefit that child benefit should be taxed. Cllr.Kerins said: “The Labour Party members of Cork City Council must realise that any such plan would be too much for parents to bear. I am calling on them to write to their colleagues in Government urging them to reject these proposals." “It is just not acceptable. The Labour Party promised to protect child benefit at the last general election. However, we have seen child benefit consistently targeted since Eamon Gilmore led them into coalition with Fine Fael." “Child benefit payment is an essential element of most family budgets and they could not survive without it. Families cannot afford any more cuts than what has already been placed upon them by this Fine Gael/Labour government.” “It is time for local Labour Party councillors to stop acting as apologists for their colleagues in Government and acknowledge the fact the policies that they are implementing disproportionately affect ordinary working families and the most vulnerable.” ENDS For further information please contact Cllr.Fiona Kerins on 0851091758

CLLR.HENRY CREMIN WELCOMES PLANS TO INSTALL CCTV CAMERAS AT CITY CEMETERIES

CLLR.HENRY CREMIN WELCOMES PLANS TO INSTALL CCTV CAMERAS AT CITY CEMETERIES Sinn Féin Councillor Henry Cremin has welcomed a positive response from Cork City Council to his motion calling for the installation of CCTV cameras and improved security measures at Cork City cemeteries. Cllr.Cremin proposed the motion following occurrences of anti-social behaviour in June 2012 and an incident in which headstones were vandalised on December 22nd 2012 in St.Joseph’s Cemetery, Ballyphehane. Cllr. Cremin said: “Both incidents were addressed at the time by cemetery supervisors with the assistance of local Gardai. However, this doesn’t mean that it can’t happen again therefore we need preventative measures.” “City Council has now responded to the motion by committing to the installation of CCTV camera with voiceover facilities and twenty-four/seven monitoring at all four city cemeteries. The installation process should be completed within six to eight weeks.” Cameras will be positioned at entrances to all the cemeteries and at other selected locations within each cemetery. A back-up petrol service will respond to any incident detected and will call on the services of the Gardai should that be necessary. Cllr. Cremin continued by saying: “These improved security measures will act as deterrent to anybody wishing to enter the cemeteries for anti-social purposes and will provide continuous surveillance throughout the day and night.” “This is a very positive move from Cork City Council and I welcome it a major step forward. It will give much needed peace of mind to those with loved ones buried in the cemeteries and to residents living in close proximity.” ENDS For further information please contact Cllr.Henry Cremin on 0862662874

CLLR.THOMAS GOULD WELCOMES GAELSCOIL PHEIG SAYERS TO FARRANFERRIS COLLEGE

CLLR.THOMAS GOULD WELCOMES GAELSCOIL PHEIG SAYERS TO FARRANFERRIS COLLEGE Sinn Féin Councillor Thomas Gould has welcomed the relocation of Gaelscoil Pheig Sayers from North Point Business Park to Farranferris College. The school was originally located in the upstairs rooms of Na Piarsaigh H&F Club, moving for a spell to the North Monastery and then to its present location in the North Point Business Park. Cllr. Gould said: "This is a very positive move for the Gaelscoil which has been searching for a permanent home for the past twenty-five years. The staff, pupils and parents are very supportive of relocation of the school and this now gives the school a permanent base. Farranferris College is an iconic building and holds great history and culture as an educational and sporting centre." “As a member of the Board of Management I am delighted with the relocation as I feel that it will see the school go from strength to strength. Since news of the proposed move has been heard, enrolments have increased by 100% for the coming school year in September.” “I would like to thank the Board of Management, especially its Chairperson Pat Kinsella, Máiréad Uí Adhmaill and everyone involved in securing the move to Farranferris College. The school has an excellent Building Committee and a very active parents association. I would also like to wish newly appointed Principal Adrian Breathnach every success in his new role and in the managing and co-ordinating of the moveto Farranferris in April.” “The future for Pheig Sayers Gaelscoil is very bright and all associate with the school are looking forward to moving to their new school. It is only right that after 25 years without a permanent home that the school will finally have a beautiful home in Farranferris.” The Gaelscoil remains within its traditional catchment area despite the move. Farranferris is an ideal local for the school with ample facilities, surrounding and encompasses all things necessary for a primary school. Established in 1988, Gaelscoil Pheig Sayers, is the only Gaelscoil in the North-West of the city. A co-educational school, some of it former past pupils includes former Cork hurler and Aussie rules star Setanta Ó O'hAilpin, Irish singer & producer Larla Ó Lionáird and former Miss Cork Etaoin Ní O'hAilpin. For further comment please contact Cllr.Thomas Gould on 0873021551

Sinn Féin to hold public meeting in Glanmire in opposition to the Property Tax

Sinn Féin to hold public meeting in Glanmire in opposition to the Property Tax Sinn Féin is to host a public meeting in Glanmire as part of the party’s national campaign against the tax on the family home. The meeting, which will be part of a series to be held right across Cork in the coming weeks, will take place on Monday, March 4th in Riverstown Community Centre at 8pm. The main speaker will be Sinn Féin’s Education Spokesperson and Cork North-Central TD Deputy Jonathan O’Brien. Deputy O’Brien said: “I haven’t paid the household charge. I said from the very outset I wouldn’t be paying the charge and I still have no intentions of paying it. I also know as somebody who is now supposedly liable for the tax on my family home that the outstanding €200 is going to added onto my property tax bill. However, I won’t be valuing my home and I won’t be registering any assessment for the property tax. That’s a personal decision that I’ve taken.” “The meeting in Glanmire will give people an opportunity to engage with the party on the issue in a public setting. Sinn Féin has drafted legislation to repeal the property tax just as we did with the household charge. Unfortunately, given the way the system works, we have to wait until the end of May before we can table that legislation in the Dáil. However, it is ready to go and we will be tabling it at the earliest opportunity.” “We are hoping that these meetings will help build a campaign that will see members of the public putting pressure on their TDs, who support the tax, to change their position and to vote in favour of the legislation to scrap the property tax and the household charge. These are unjust and regressive taxes that hit those on low and middle incomes far more than they hit those politicians who voted the charges into existence.” The Barrett/MacCurtain Sinn Féin cumann, which covers the Blanery & Glanmire areas of Cork, has been instrumental in organising the meeting. Deputy O’Brien has encouraged anybody living in the area, who wants to play a role in the Sinn Féin campaign, to contact the party in Cork. “We want people to come on board and use their skills & enthusiasm to help us drive this campaign forward. Every citizen has a role to play in defeating these taxes. We want to send a clear message to the Government that people haven’t anything left to give. Enough is enough.” ENDS

Cllr. Fiona Kerins condemns the use of debt collection services by Irish universities to recover student fees

Cllr. Fiona Kerins condemns the use of debt collection services by Irish universities to recover student fees Sinn Fein’s Cllr. Fiona Kerins has condemned the news that some Irish universities are engaging the services of private debt collection agencies in order to recover fees from students. While there is no indication that such a decision has been made by University College Cork, Cllr. Kerins is alarmed that both University College Dublin and University of Limerick have recently resorted to such measures. Cllr.Kerins stated: “The growing trend of universities employing debt collection agencies to force students into handing over money with which they cannot afford to part is deplorable. I hope this tactic of intimidation is not something that will be foisted upon students in Cork. It is little more than bullying. It is behaviour more expected in a primary school playground than from the management of a university." “This comes at a time when the support funding system for third level students in Ireland has virtually collapsed. The SUSI system has been a complete disaster and this debacle has meant that many students are only starting to receive their grants now.” “The increase in student fees over the last number of years has compelled a great deal of students drop out of college and now, in a climate of employment uncertainty, they must also worry about a knock on the door from a debt collector. I know that universities must balance their books but is it acceptable for centres of learning to take such an uncompromising approach? I don’t think so. It is sad that students are now seen as easy prey in the currrent climate." “The USI is correct in saying that universities should be directing resources internally towards engaging with students in order to arrive at mutually agreeable understandings. I think there is even room for an appreciation of the circumstances of those with long standing debts given the protracted nature of the economic crisis. The USI president has called on Ruairí Quinn to prohibit the use of debt collectors and I would certainly concur with that demand.” ENDS

Micheál Martin has a responsibility to treat McEniff anti-traveller comments seriously – Cllr. Mick Nugent

Micheál Martin has a responsibility to treat McEniff anti-traveller comments seriously – Cllr. Mick Nugent Sinn Féin Councillor Mick Nugent believes that Michéal Martin has a responsibility to treat the anti-traveller comments made by Fianna Fáil’s Sean McEniff with the utmost seriousness. The Donegal-based Councillor called for the segregation of travellers from settled communities on RTE’s Morning Ireland radio programme. Cllr.Nugent says that he is concerned that Deputy Martin, as leader of one the country’s major political parties, has remained silent on an issue of blatant racism. “I don’t think any political organisation or leader could stand over the racist comments made by Cllr. McEniff on the national airwaves this week. His suggestion has all the hallmarks of Apartheid. I would imagine that these reckless and discriminatory remarks caused a great deal distress for members of the travelling here in Cork.” “The alarming thing is that this not the first time Cllr.McEniff has made these type of comments and yet Deputy Martin has failed to address a matter that goes to the very heart of citizen’s rights in this country. A public condemnation and disciplinary action would have been an almost reflexive action for any organisation with a rights-based ethos. Fianna Fáil has shown a disgraceful lack of leadership on this. “I would also be worried about the kind of message that is being communicated to young people as a result of Deputy Martin’s failure to challenge the explicit bigotry of a party representative. It is time for a national discussion about the barrier of distrust between travelling and settled people in this country. Unfortunately, the silence of the Fianna Fáil leadership will only go to strengthen that barrier. “I don’t think it is acceptable for Fianna Fáil to hide behind the line of showing respect for the ‘personal positions’ of party Councillors. That’s a cop-out. Racism is the complete antithesis of respect. I hope all Fianna Fáil representatives in Cork will publicly condemn the comments over the next couple of days. The remarks by Cllr.McEniff and the silence of Micheal Martin are an affront to the human dignity of travelling community.” ENDS

BOILER CHARGE IS A ‘RENT INCREASE IN DISGUISE’- CLLR. THOMAS GOULD

BOILER CHARGE IS A ‘RENT INCREASE IN DISGUISE’- CLLR. THOMAS GOULD Sinn Féin Cllr. Thomas Gould has criticised the decision by Cork City Council to impose a charge of €2 per week on all local authority tenants to pay for the servicing of central heating boilers Cllr. Gould described this as an increase in rent not an additional charge. In the past Cork City Council serviced boilers every two years and the cost of this was included in the rent. Due to new Government legislation which came into effect on 1st February, Cork City Council is compelled to ensure that all council properties have adequate central heating. Cllr. Gould outline two main issues with what he is calling a rent increase in disguise. “I do not believe that the €2 weekly charge which amounts to €104 per year should be forced upon the tenants. This is a cost that the council should be responsible for but due to the cut backs to Cork City Council Local Government funding, it is now being passed on unfairly onto the tenants.” Secondly, Cllr. Gould states that up to 2012 it had been Cork City Council’s policy to service central heating boilers every two years. However, now when the tenant must pay they are been required to pay for servicing of the boiler annually. “I cannot understand how every two years was adequate servicing when the Council were paying and now that the burden is on the tenants, it has become a mandatory yearly service?” “I have been highlighting this issue since last September when Cork City Council cancelled all boiler servicing for the remainder of 2012 because of lack of funding. I have submitted motions and raised this issue at both housing and council meetings and I am extremely disappointed that this rent increase has gone ahead”. Over the next few months Cork City Council tenants are going to be hit with numerous additional charges. From the 13th February the €2 increase to the weekly rent charge will come into effect. Cllr. Gould stated that: “In other words, this €2 a week plus all the additional charges that will come into effect are simply just another means of paying back the bond holders but in a deceiving manner. What Fine Gael and Labour don’t understand is that the ordinary people are not fools and can see through their misleading tactics”. ENDS For further information or comment please contact Cllr.Thomas Gould on 0873021551

DEPUTY JONATHAN O'BRIEN ACCEPTS INVITATION TO PUBLIC FORUM ON AUSTERITY AND THE PROPERTY TAX

DEPUTY JONATHAN O'BRIEN ACCEPTS INVITATION TO PUBLIC FORUM ON AUSTERITY AND THE PROPERTY TAX Sinn Féin Education Spokesperson and Cork North-Central TD Jonathan O'Brien has accepted an invitation from the Campaign Against Household and Water taxes to attend a public meeting entitled "Austerity and the Property Tax". The forum will take place on Monday, February 11th at 8pm in The Metropole Hotel. The campaign group has stated that all TDs for Cork South-Central and Cork North-Central have been invited to attend and give a brief presentation on where they stand on the issues. Deputy O'Brien said: "I will be happy to attend and articulate Sinn Féin's opposition to the property tax and to the wider austerity agenda being implemented by this Government." "We put forward realistic and costed alternatives in our pre-budget submission but unfortunately Fine Gael and Labour decided to ignore all other possibilities." "I am looking forward to both critical & constructive engagement with my fellow TDs should they take-up the invitation from the organisers - especially given developments over the last couple of days. The so-called deal between the Government and the European Central Bank is an affront to the people of this country. It fully converts the debts of toxic banks into sovereign debt in the form of Government bonds. It ensures that generations will be paying debt that wasn't accrued by the public." "What will this deal mean for ordinary,working people? Will Fine Gael and Labour turn away from austerity and the imposition of unjust taxes? I highly doubt it. They are firmly wedded to a savage brand of fiscal conservatism aimed at stripping our social infrastructure and exposing the most vulnerable in society to even further hardships."

SF Education spokesperson urges parents to participate in school patronage survey

SF Education spokesperson urges parents to participate in school patronage survey 6 Feb 2013 Sinn Féin Education Spokesperson Jonathan O’Brien has urged people to participate in the national parental patronage survey on school preference, currently being taken on a pilot basis in 38 designated towns and areas across the country. Describing the survey as an “unique opportunity for parents to have their say on the type of school they would like to see in place for their children”, the Cork North Central TD continued: “I believe it is important that when for the first time the State is actively seeking the views of parents that they participate in this survey regarding their preference for the type of school they would like to see their children educated in. “The surveys are open to parents who live in the designated areas and have children age 0-12 years old and I hope they will take this opportunity to register their choice, before the survey closes on Friday the 8 th of February. “Anyone interested in registering their views can log onto the Department of Education's website where they can access information about the areas covered by the survey, the potential patrons and how the survey mechanism works. “I hope that findings of these surveys will help shape our education system so that it properly meets the needs of our rapidly changing population.”

O’LEARY CALLS FOR CONVICTION ON ILLEGAL WASTE “Conviction sends out strong message to illegal waste operators” Sinn Fein's Cllr.Chris O'Leary is demanding a crackdown on the illegal dumping of waste and rubbish at site on the southside of Cork City. Tons of waste has been dumped in the middle of an internationally renowned business park at Mahon Point which is located on a City Council owned site. The site is overlooked by the National Software Centre and new development at City Gate Park which house some big name, multi-national companies. Cllr. O'Leary said: “It is time to send out a strong message to those who operate outside the country's waste laws. I would now call Cork City Council to clean up this site and pursue those people, who are acting outside of the waste management laws and regulations, for the cost of cleaning up the illegal dump." "Conviction would send out a very clear message to those dumping waste illegally that they will be caught and successfully prosecuted." The dump contains tonnes of domestic rubbish, building materials, car components, burnt out wire and other materials. Cllr O’Leary, who visited the site on foot of phone calls from residents and workers from local businesses, said he was 'appalled' by what he saw there, along a with horse that had been stuck in mucky trench and was being put down on by a vet and animal services on his arrival.

O’LEARY CALLS FOR CONVICTION ON ILLEGAL WASTE “Conviction sends out strong message to illegal waste operators” Sinn Fein's Cllr.Chris O'Leary is demanding a crackdown on the illegal dumping of waste and rubbish at site on the Southside of Cork City. Tons of waste has been dumped in the middle of an internationally renowned business park at Mahon Point which is located on a City Council owned site. The site is overlooked by the National Software Centre and new development at City Gate Park which house some big name, multi-national companies. Cllr. O'Leary said: “It is time to send out a strong message to those who operate outside the country's waste laws. I would now call Cork City Council to clean up this site and pursue those people, who are acting outside of the waste management laws and regulations, for the cost of cleaning up the illegal dump." "Conviction would send out a very clear message to those dumping waste illegally that they will be caught and successfully prosecuted." The dump contains tonnes of domestic rubbish, building materials, car components, burnt out wire and other materials. Cllr O’Leary, who visited the site on foot of phone calls from residents and workers from local businesses, said he was 'appalled' by what he saw there, along a with horse that had been stuck in mucky trench and was being put down on by a vet and animal services on his arrival.

CUTS TO MINOR WORKS GRANTS A FURTHER BLOW TO SCHOOLS - Deputy Jonathan O'Brien

CUTS TO MINOR WORKS GRANTS A FURTHER BLOW TO SCHOOLS - Deputy Jonathan O'Brien 31 Jan 2013 Sinn Féin Education Spokesperson has said the government’s decision to suspend the Minor Work’s Grant for primary schools was causing significant difficulties that would only get worse in the time ahead.. The Cork North Central TD was speaking after raising the matter recently with Education Minister Ruairí where he referred to the views expressed by the Irish Primary Principal's Network (IPPN) who have described the Minor Works Grant as a “lifesaver” for schools that use the payment to carryout essential repairs during the winter months. He continued: “By the Minister’s own admission, in 2011 3,248 schools throughout the country received funding under the scheme and its suspension in 2012 has had a serious impact on schools that are struggling to find the resources to pay for essential maintenance. “The loss of this funding lifeline is having the most serious impact on smaller schools that greatly rely on this grant to maintain buildings and classrooms which will fall into a greater state of disrepair as a result of minor problems becoming more serious over time. “This grant was an essential source of funding for schools because it made a significant difference in ensuring schools could carry out essential maintenance at a very difficult time of the year. “It also provided essential employment for small builders who could find employment with schools on jobs that didn't cost a fortune and where they were guaranteed payment. Schools were also allowed a certain amount of discretion as to how the money was spent and it was mainly bureaucracy-free meaning money could be found quickly when needed to pay for repairs. “The cuts in funding must also be seen in light of the increasing financial pressures that are being placed on parents who are being asked for voluntary contributions to make up for the funding shortfalls. “Ultimately, it is the education of our children that will suffer and in the past year we have read alarming reports of schools asking parents to provide their own toilet rolls and dress their children with additional clothes because they are having to sit in cold heated classrooms.”

Publication of Mental Health and Suicide Guidelines undermined by cuts in school guidance counsellors

Publication of Mental Health and Suicide Guidelines undermined by cuts in school guidance counsellors 1 Feb 2013 Responding to the publication this week of new national guidelines on promoting positive mental health and suicide prevention in post-primary schools, Sinn Féin Education Spokesperson Jonathan O’Brien said any initiative to heighten awareness of these issues was to be welcomed but schools also needed additional resources to help vulnerable young people. Deputy O’Brien said:“I agree with the view that post-primary schools have a unique role to play in supporting the positive health and well-being of young people, but the type of caring environment that is needed to achieve this can only happen if there are adequate supports available to help teachers and boards of management. “In acknowledging the merit of these Guidelines, which are an attempt to provide a clear framework for schools when promoting mental health issues and suicide prevention, we need also to be mindful of the cuts that are impacting on the second level education sector. “It is all very well to adopt a “whole-school approach” to deal with these issues but this is happening at time when hundreds of school guidance counsellors have been lost, meaning the vital pastoral role they provide to at risk young people has been badly hit. “Indeed it is ironic that schools are being told of the importance of early detection of problems and timely intervention for any young person experiencing mental health difficulties, while at the same guidance counsellors who have the specialised training and experience to deal with these types of situations are being prevented from fulfilling this role. “The serious contradictions that seem to underpin the government’s approach to mental health issues and suicide in young people is very worrying and is something that I will be raising directly with the Education Minister Ruairí Quinn.”

O’BRIEN SUBMITS RELOCATION OF BLACKPOOL POST OFFICE FOR TOPICAL ISSUES DEBATE IN DÁIL.

O’BRIEN SUBMITS RELOCATION OF BLACKPOOL POST OFFICE FOR TOPICAL ISSUES DEBATE IN DÁIL. Deputy Jonathan O’Brien has submitted the imminent relocation of Blackpool Post Office and the implications arising from this decision as an issue for topical issue debate in the Dáil. The Sinn Féin TD for Cork North-Central said: “I have notified the Ceann Comhairle that I want to raise the issue of Blackpool Post Office for debate in the Dáil tomorrow evening. It is now up to him to select the topic so that this matter is given the time it deserves at national level. I should know by lunchtime tomorrow if the issue has been selected.” “The move to relocate the post office is an extremely bad decision for Blackpool village and the people of the community it serves. It has been and still is a focal point for many. This move will make it more difficult for the elderly to access the post office and its loss will be detrimental to an area that is fighting to encourage more business into the village.” “The outcry and protests of the last number of weeks are reflective of the level of anger within the community. There is a very real and justified sense of abandonment among the people of Blackpool at the moment." “We will use the debate to push for a commitment from Minister Rabbitte to do everything in his power to ensure the retention of the post office in Blackpool Village.”

University College Cork to host annual commemoration

University College Cork to host annual commemoration The UCC Sinn Féin Martin Hurson Cumann will host it's annual commemoration on Thursday, January 10th at 6.45pm. The event, which takes place on campus every year, was started a number of years ago to commemorate thirteen IRA Volunteers who were killed during the War of Independence and who are buried on the grounds of the University. This year the oration will de delivered by North-Kerry TD, Deputy Martin Ferris. Stephen Cunningham, who is the chairperson of the Sinn Féin UCC cumann, said: "The commemoration has gone from strength to strength each year and it has become a regular fixture of the calendar, not just for republicans, but also for those with a keen interest in local history. We are inviting everybody to come along and listen to what we expect will be a very interesting speech from Martin Ferris. Martin Ferris is looking forward to speaking at the commemoration in UCC and said: "I am very eager to come to Cork and meet some of the young people attending the college. I really enjoy engaging with students and hearing what they have to say around a broad range of issue. It is an extremely testing time for third-level students so I am sure they will have a lot to say. But I am also honoured to be given the opportunity to speak in memory of these brave volunteers who gave their lives in the cause of a deeply desired freedom." The commemoration will begin at the amphitheatre in front of the student centre in U.C.C. and will proceed past the Quad, and down to gaol cross, where a wreath will be laid at the old gaol wall in honour of another IRA volunteer shot dead in 1940 by Free State forces as he attempted to aid an escape. It will then proceed to the plot in front of the science building, where the main oration will be given.

Calls for the retention of the Blackpool Post Office in Blackpool Village.

Sinn Féin Cllr. Thomas Gould calls for the retention of the Blackpool Post Office in Blackpool Village. Cllr. Thomas Gould has described today's decision by An Post, to relocate Blackpool Post to the shopping centre, as a serious blow to the Blackpool Village area. The move is scheduled for 11th Februray 2013 and the Sinn Féin representative believes that it will have a detrimental impact on the local community. Cllr. Gould said: "The current location of the Post Office ensured that people were coming into the village to utilise this and other businesses in the area. It has been a focal point for many throughout the years. For people living locally in Maddens Buildings and in Blackpool and surrounding areas they will now have to go to Blackpool Shopping Centre to avail of this service." "This move makes it harder for the elderly to access the Post Office and is also a huge loss to those living in Blackpool. The Post Office was up for tender and I am disappointed that no public consultation or consultation with the local community or community organisations took place before the decision was taken to relocate the Post Office. " "At a time when we are trying to encourage more business into Blackpool Village, the loss of the Post Office is detrimental to the area." ENDS