Cork Sinn Féin News

Protest Today at €1.25 Billion Handover

2012-01-25T03:37:00.000-08:00

Protest Today at €1.25 Billion Handover

Sinn Féin will hold a protest at 1pm today in Daunt Square to mark the government handover of €1.25 billion to unsecured bondholders in Anglo-Irish Bank.

Speaking in advance of the event, party councillor Chris O’Leary said:

“Today the government will pay out €1.25 billion to unsecured bondholders at Anglo Irish Bank. This money could be used to reverse all the social welfare and education cuts in the budget, or to abolish the €100 household charge. Instead it will be paid out to anonymous investors in a defunct bank.”

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“Further payments to bondholders are set for later this month, while in March the government will pay out €3 billion on the promissory note used to recapitalise Anglo Irish Bank. In other words, within three months Anglo-Irish Bank will cost more the entire sum of cutbacks and tax-increases in December’s budget.”

“The Irish people are under no moral or legal obligation to pay unsecured bondholders in Anglo-Irish Bank. These investors took a gamble, now they must take their loss. Ireland is being bled dry to cover the banking debts at Anglo.”

“At 1pm today Sinn Féin activists will hold a protest against the handover of this money at Daunt Square. I am encouraging people to join us and make their voices heard. I am asking the people of Cork to tell the government loud and clear - ‘Stop the Handover’.

For further information or comment contact Cllr Chris O’Leary @ 087-2794307

Council Asked to Oppose Education Cuts-Nugent

2012-01-16T03:23:00.000-08:00

Council Asked to Oppose Education Cuts-Nugent

A Sinn Féin motion due before Cork City Council this evening will ask it to oppose planned cuts to the DEIS (Delivering Equality of Opportunity in Schools) scheme announced in December’s budget.

Speaking in advance of the meeting, Cllr Mick Nugent said:

“While the announcement by Minister for Education Ruairi Quinn that his department is to review the cutbacks is welcome, it does not go far enough. These cuts to funding for disadvantaged students should be reversed, pure and simple”

“If implemented, the cuts could lead to 19 schools across Cork City losing 88 teaching posts. They are indefensible and wrong. Today we are asking Cork City Council to add it voice to the campaign to protect these teaching posts.”

“The Minister’s u-turn last week was a result of the campaign waged by parents and teachers from DEIS schools and the pressure brought to bear by Sinn Féin’s motion on the issue in the Dáil. We need to keep up that pressure until the cuts are reversed in full, and that is what this evening’s motion is about.”

For further information or comment contact Cllr Mick Nugent @ 087-6755793

Sinn Féin asks Cork TDs to Support Motion on DEIS Schools

2012-01-09T04:22:00.001-08:00

Sinn Féin asks Cork TDs to Support Motion on DEIS Schools

Councillor Mick Nugent has called on Cork TDs from all parties to support a Sinn Féin motion to be debated in Leinster House this week which demands the government reverse cuts to the pupil-teacher ratio in DEIS schools introduced in December’s budget.

Cllr Nugent said:

“The cuts to education announced in last month’s budget are indefensible. The government is continuing to implement the policies of its predecessors in Fianna Fail by targeting the most vulnerable within our education system.”

“Cork is one of the areas that will be worst affected by the proposed cuts to the pupil-teacher ratio in DEIS schools. If implemented, they would affect 19 schools in the city with the loss of up to 88 teachers.”

“Sinn Féin has submitted a motion which will be debated in the Dáil next Wednesday and Thursday, calling on the government not to cut teacher numbers in disadvantaged schools. These cuts will result in the loss of hundreds of teachers who play a key role in ensuring some of our most vulnerable young people receive a decent education.”

“If the government press ahead then much of the progress that has been made in our education system over the last decade will be lost. It will cause irreparable damage to many young peoples’ lives and have serious implications for wider Irish society and its economy.”

“I am calling on local TDs to stand up for disadvantaged schools in Cork and support the Sinn Féin motion next week.”

For further information or comment contact Cllr Mick Nugent @ 087-6755793

O’Brien Seeks Meeting on Cork Centre for the Unemployed

2012-01-07T05:33:00.000-08:00

O’Brien Seeks Meeting on Cork Centre for the Unemployed

Speaking after attending a protest against the threatened closure of the Cork Centre for the Unemployed yesterday, Jonathan O’Brien TD has called on FÁS and the Cork Council of Trade Unions to do everything in their power to keep the centre open.

Deputy O’Brien said:

“The Cork Centre for the Unemployed provides a vital service to the nearly 40,000 people without work in Cork. Its importance is underlined by the latest figures for the Live Register, which show a further rise in long-term unemployment.”

“There is an onus on all the stakeholders involved to work together to secure the future of the Centre. I have written to both FÁS and the Cork Council of Trade Unions to seek a meeting on the issue.”

“I am pleased that the Council of Trade Unions is meeting with workers at the Centre today, and hopefully they will be able to identify ways in which the Council can assist the continued operation of the Centre.”

“A crucial role in resolving the matter lies with FÁS. It has been claimed the agency has concerns about the management of the Centre. If this is the case then it should state the nature of these concerns and publish any reports on the matter.”

"Whatever issues FÁS may have, the solution lies in open discussion with the workers and possibly changes in management procedures at the Centre. Simply to withdraw funding for CE places and close the service is unacceptable.”

Funding for “Dial to Stop Drug Dealing” Terminated

2012-01-07T05:32:00.001-08:00

Funding for “Dial to Stop Drug Dealing” Terminated

Jonathan O’Brien TD has expressed his deep disappointment at news that the funding for the “Dial to Stop Drug Dealing” initiative has been discontinued with almost immediate effect. The service will terminate this Friday.

Deputy O’Brien said:

“The Dial to Stop Drug Dealing” free phone number was a successful initiative which Sinn Féin had long campaigned for. I very much regret the announcement that funding for the scheme is to be terminated and the phone line will no longer be in operation from this Friday.”

“This service provided a means by which the public could report drug dealing in their communities confidentially and anonymously. The Gardaí have reported substantial success in seizing drugs as a result of information received on the “dial to stop drug dealing” line. I want to thank all those who used the facility in the fight against drug dealers who have destroyed many lives, families and communities across Cork.”

“The sad reality of drug dealing is reflected in the number of drug deaths which we have seen across the city in recent years. Without further action the drugs problem will only worsen.”

"The phone line was another resource for tackling drug abuse that will now be absent. While we all understand the financial pressure facing the country, the cost of this service is small compared to the potential benefits it offered communities and Gardai in their efforts to combat drug dealing. We simply cannot allow the fight against drugs to be hindered in this way. The stakes are too high."

For further information or comment contact Jonathan O’Brien TD @ 086-0274142 or Cllr Mick Nugent @ 087-6755793

Funding for “Dial to Stop Drug Dealing” Terminated

2012-01-05T03:51:00.001-08:00

Cork Centre for the Unemployed Can Still be Saved

2012-01-04T05:05:00.000-08:00

Cork Centre for the Unemployed Can Still be Saved

Sinn Féin councillor Mick Nugent has commended staff and supporters of the Cork Centre for the Unemployed for their efforts to keep the centre open, and called on FÁS to reconsider its position on withdrawing CE funding.

Cllr Nugent said:

“The staff and volunteers at the Cork Centre for the Unemployed are to be commended for their decision to keep the centre open on a voluntary basis, after the withdrawal by FÁS of community employment places.”

“With 40,000 people unemployed in Cork, the range of services provided by the centre has never been more necessary. It is ironic that a facility which has been open for nearly two decades should face the threat of closure now at a time when unemployment is at its highest since the 1980s.”

“The Cork Centre for the Unemployed is the only one of its kind in the city, and it is important that it is kept open.”

“FÁS should use the lease of life the staff have given the centre to reconsider their decision to withdraw funding for CE places while the facility can still be saved.”

For further information or comment contact Cllr Mick Nugent @ 087-6755793

Remarks by UCC President are Arrogant and Elitist

2011-12-22T06:22:00.001-08:00

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

Cut in Disabled Persons Grant Condemned

2011-12-20T04:04:00.000-08:00

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

Councillors Fail to Show Leadership – O’Leary

2011-12-20T03:59:00.000-08:00

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

Council Support for Vita Cortex Workers

2011-12-20T03:53:00.001-08:00

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

Sinn Féin Councillors to Challenge Budget

2011-12-19T04:01:00.001-08:00

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 to Resist Cut in Disabled Persons' Grant-Kerins

2011-12-16T14:47:00.001-08:00

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

Council Must Move Faster to Grit Roads-Nugent

2011-12-16T14:43:00.000-08:00

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

Council Budget Must Protect Core Services – O’Leary

2011-12-14T07:07:00.001-08:00

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

SF Councillor Questions Revised Housing Figures-Nugent

2011-12-13T06:49:00.000-08:00

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

O’Brien Seeks Face-to-Face Meeting with Minister over School Cuts

2011-12-13T06:47:00.001-08:00

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

Cuts to Southside Schools will Hurt Children’s Education-O'Leary

2011-12-13T05:17:00.000-08:00

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

Budget Protest at Patrick’s Bridge, 5pm Tomorrow

2011-12-05T11:53:00.001-08:00

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

Labour U-Turn on Bank Guarantee

2011-12-02T05:59:00.004-08:00

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

Labour U-Turn on Bank Guarantee

2011-12-02T05:59:00.003-08:00

Labour U-Turn on Bank Guarantee

2011-12-02T05:59:00.002-08:00

Labour U-Turn on Bank Guarantee

2011-12-02T05:59:00.001-08:00

Labour U-Turn on Bank Guarantee

2011-12-02T05:59:00.000-08:00

Labour TDs Vote against Protecting Child Benefit

2011-12-01T06:03:00.001-08:00

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

City Council Rejects Welfare Cuts

2011-11-29T03:39:00.001-08:00

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

Council Should Engage with NAMA on Housing-Nugent

2011-11-29T03:34:00.001-08:00

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

Stop the Handover! Protest this Saturday at Daunt Square

2011-11-23T04:39:00.000-08:00

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

Proposed Cuts in Child Benefit Deeply Worrying – O’Brien

2011-11-21T03:17:00.000-08:00

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

Council Needs Proper Debate on Sky Garden-O'Leary

2011-11-16T04:48:00.000-08:00

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

Council Should Review Letting Policy - O'Brien

2011-11-16T04:46:00.000-08:00

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

Buttimer Should Clarify Position on Cork Airport-O'Leary

2011-11-16T04:43:00.000-08:00

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

Council Backs Sinn Féin Motion on Bank Handover-O'Leary

2011-11-16T03:59:00.001-08:00

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

Public Need to Know the Full Facts about Sky Garden

2011-11-11T07:50:00.000-08:00

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

Bailed-out Banks Refuse to Pass on Mortgage Cuts-Nugent

2011-11-11T07:49:00.001-08:00

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

Government Plans to Target Rent Supplement Outrageous-O'Leary

2011-11-11T07:46:00.001-08:00

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

O’Brien calls for increased commitment to community safety in rural areas

2011-11-08T08:35:00.001-08:00

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

Council Must See Business Plan for Cork-Swansea Ferries

2011-11-08T06:59:00.000-08:00

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

Stop the Handover!

2011-11-04T07:06:00.000-07:00

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

Hunger-strikers Commemoration to take place in Cork Sunday

2011-10-26T08:27:00.000-07:00

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

Council Officials Should be Held Accountable for Waste

2011-10-26T03:54:00.000-07:00

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

McGuinness to Address Cork Rally Tuesday

2011-10-17T03:57:00.000-07:00

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

HSE Cuts Proposals Appalling-Nugent

2011-10-16T09:03:00.001-07:00

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

Transfer of A&E Services from South Infirmary Unacceptable-O'Leary

2011-10-13T08:25:00.000-07:00

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

Buttimer Has Questions to Answer Over A&E Issue-O'Leary

2011-10-13T04:41:00.001-07:00

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

Martin McGuinness to Speak at Cork Rally

2011-10-12T04:58:00.000-07:00

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

“Cork For McGuinness” Meeting Monday Night

2011-09-30T04:54:00.001-07:00

“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

O’Brien Urges Voters to Check Register

2011-09-28T04:27:00.000-07:00

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

Government Must Reject AIB Demand on Salary- O'Brien

2011-09-26T03:34:00.001-07:00

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

Blackrock Residents Protest against Household Charge

2011-09-22T08:12:00.000-07:00

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

City Council Faces Funding Crisis- O'Leary

2011-09-21T06:24:00.000-07:00

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

Action Must Follow Community Safety Meeting

2011-09-20T04:28:00.000-07:00

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

Sinn Féin Calls for Strong Attendance at Community Safety Forum

2011-09-14T04:53:00.000-07:00

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 Protest Meeting against Household Charge

2011-09-14T04:50:00.000-07:00

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

Housing Issues Prominent at Sinn Féin Ard Fheis

2011-09-13T06:07:00.001-07:00

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

Council Agrees Sinn Féin Motion against Household Charge

2011-09-13T06:04:00.000-07:00

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

Large Attendance at Meeting on Community Safety in Mayfield

2011-09-08T07:12:00.001-07:00

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

Jonathan O’Brien TD to Deliver Keynote Address at Sinn Féin Ard Fheis

2011-09-06T06:16:00.000-07:00

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

Sinn Féin to Hold Public Meeting in Mayfield Next Wednesday

2011-09-03T03:33:00.001-07:00

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

Cork Sinn Féin to Launch Family Tax Campaign today

2011-09-03T03:31:00.001-07:00

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

Council Can Help Reduce Litter in Knocknaheeny- Nugent

2011-08-29T07:21:00.000-07:00

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

Government Must Take Action on Fuel Poverty- Nugent

2011-08-29T04:09:00.001-07:00

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

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

2011-08-29T04:09:00.000-07:00

Council Engaged in a Deliberate Campaign of Misinformation – O’Leary

2011-08-29T04:08:00.001-07:00

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

Manager Challenged on €300,000 Revamp of Lord Mayor’s Chambers- O'Leary

2011-08-25T04:59:00.000-07:00

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 Councillors Support North Main Street Traders

2011-08-24T03:20:00.001-07:00

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

Minister Must Intervene to Secure Alternative Carrier- O'Brien

2011-08-24T03:18:00.000-07:00

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

“Cash for Gold” Outlets Need Regulation

2011-08-05T08:58:00.000-07:00

“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

Gas Price Rise Will Push More Families into Arrears

2011-07-29T08:24:00.000-07:00

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

Housing System Has Fallen Apart – O’Leary

2011-07-27T05:06:00.001-07:00

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

Household Charge Grossly Unfair – O’Brien

2011-07-27T05:02:00.000-07:00

Household Charge Grossly Unfair – O’Brien

Sinn Féin TD Jonathan O’Brien has hit out at the government’s decision to approve a new Household Charge of €100 as a precursor to water charges and a property tax.

Speaking last night after the cabinet approved the charge Deputy O’Brien said:

“The government has today imposed another tax on pensioners, social welfare recipients, and people in mortgage arrears – none of whom will be exempt from the tax and many of whom will not be able to pay.”

“The new charge will also drive up rents, as landlords pass it on to their tenants, making it harder for tens of thousands of people in rented accommodation to make ends meet.”

“The flat rate nature of this charge is grossly unfair. Every household, no matter what their income, will pay €100. An elderly person struggling to get by on the state pension will pay the same as a multi-millionaire.”

“The government is describing this tax as an interim measure while preparations are being made to introduce water charges and a property tax. Engineers Ireland have estimated that water meters will cost up to three times the government’s estimate of €500 million. If water meters are introduced it will take many, many years to recover the cost of their installation and even longer to generate real savings.”

“Instead of spending this money on installing meters the government should increase investment in water distribution and in fixing the existing pipe network, where up to 50% of water is wasted. This has the potential to save much more water than metering and would pay for itself in a short time frame.”

“Cork Sinn Féin will be actively campaigning against the household charge in the months ahead.”

For further information contact Deputy Jonathan O’Brien at 086-0274142

Sinn Féin TD Jonathan O’Brien has hit out at the government’s decision to approve a new Household Charge of €100 as a precursor to water charges and a property tax.

Speaking last night after the cabinet approved the charge Deputy O’Brien said:

“The government has today imposed another tax on pensioners, social welfare recipients, and people in mortgage arrears – none of whom will be exempt from the tax and many of whom will not be able to pay.”

“The new charge will also drive up rents, as landlords pass it on to their tenants, making it harder for tens of thousands of people in rented accommodation to make ends meet.”

“The flat rate nature of this charge is grossly unfair. Every household, no matter what their income, will pay €100. An elderly person struggling to get by on the state pension will pay the same as a multi-millionaire.”

“The government is describing this tax as an interim measure while preparations are being made to introduce water charges and a property tax. Engineers Ireland have estimated that water meters will cost up to three times the government’s estimate of €500 million. If water meters are introduced it will take many, many years to recover the cost of their installation and even longer to generate real savings.”

“Instead of spending this money on installing meters the government should increase investment in water distribution and in fixing the existing pipe network, where up to 50% of water is wasted. This has the potential to save much more water than metering and would pay for itself in a short time frame.”

“Cork Sinn Féin will be actively campaigning against the household charge in the months ahead.”

For further information contact Deputy Jonathan O’Brien at 086-0274142

Volunteer Denis Spriggs 90th anniversary commemoration

2011-07-25T04:28:00.001-07:00

Volunteer Denis Spriggs 90th Anniversary Commemoration-July 17th

Oration by Cllr Mick Nugent

We are gathered today to commemorate Volunteer Denis Spriggs, a member of the 1st Cork Brigade of the IRA who was murdered by British forces 90 years ago this month.
Denis Spriggs joined the IRA aged only 16. He played an active part in the Tan War and, as result of his activities was forced to go on the run. On the 9th July 1921 he had returned home briefly to visit his mother. His presence in the house was betrayed by a neighbour. That night the house was raided by Crown Forces. Denis Spriggs was seized, taken 100 yards from his home to the top of Blarney Street and shot dead. Only two days later, a truce came into effect between the British forces and the IRA.

It is important that we remember the sacrifices made by Denis Spriggs and those like him. Nobody forced him to step forward and join the struggle for Irish independence – indeed, he lied about his age in order to join the IRA. He saw the oppression of the Irish people under British rule, dreamed of a better future, and took action to make it happen. He knew from the start that by doing so he was putting his life on the line, but he did not let this stop him. Like thousands more Irishmen and women of his time, he believed in a better future for his country and as willing to sacrifice himself in order to make that dream a reality.
As an IRA volunteer, Denis Spriggs took up arms in order to establish the Irish Republic declared in 1916. The basis of that republic is set out in the Proclamation: “We declare the right of the people of Ireland to the ownership of Ireland, and to the unfettered control of Irish destinies, to be sovereign and indefeasible.” This is the core republican demand: that the Irish people have the right to control their own country, the freedom to decide their own future.

That is a freedom they have never been allowed to exercise. In the 1918 elections the Irish people declared their desire for independence, only to have the British suppress the First Dáil and impose martial law on the country. It was against this denial of the Irish people’s right to self-determination that young IRA volunteers like Denis Spriggs took up arms. The continuance of partition since 1921 has meant a further denial of Irish freedom. However the limited independence achieved by the 26 counties meant that for many people the struggle for independence appeared to be over. Freedom became something that was taken for granted. For some, talk of national sovereignty even came to sound old-fashioned. They forgot that freedom is not something that is just handed to us; it needs to be fought for and it needs to be defended.

Today, however, maybe we can see once again why national freedom, the sovereignty that Volunteers like Denis Spriggs fought for, really matters. Misgovernment by our political elite and the economic crisis have led to the loss of our economic sovereignty and our dependence on the EU and IMF. This means that the basic decisions about what happens in this country now require the permission of foreign agencies. Only this week their representatives were in Dublin to compile a quarterly report on the country’s progress. Irish government ministers were reduced to the position of schoolboys having their copybooks checked. As a result, economic decisions in this country are now being taken, not on the basis of what is good for the Irish people, but what serves the EU, the IMF, and the international banks and bondholders whose interests they represent.

For ordinary people, this means cutbacks in public services, reductions in social welfare, the unfair Universal Social Charge, new water charges and property taxes – and when they protest the answer of the government is to shrug and say “it’s not our decision”. People’s standard of living is being driven down and families who are struggling to make ends meet are being punished to pay for the sins of bankers and financial regulators, but there seems to be no one to whom they can appeal. This is what happens when you lose your freedom; decisions that affect your livelihood are made for you by others, without any regard for your interests. Today, with the centenary of the 1916 rising less than five years away, it seems the ownership of Ireland lies with international bondholders, and control of Irish destinies in the European Central Bank. This is where a political system stained by corruption and cronyism, and crippled by a lack of vision, has brought us.

The ideal of a sovereign Irish republic that Denis Spriggs gave his life for has never been more relevant than it is today. The demand of James Connolly for the “reconquest of Ireland by the Irish people” has never been more timely. If we are to rise above this crisis, we need to do more than rebuild our economy – we need to remake our politics. We need to create a new republic. Today we again have urgent need of men and women who, like Denis Spriggs, have a vision of a better Ireland and the courage and dedication to make it a reality.

The vision for a new republic can be discovered in the founding documents of an independent Ireland. In 1919, the First Dáil Eireann agreed a “Democratic Programme” which set out the principles that should govern an Irish Republic. It states: “We declare that the Nation's sovereignty extends not only to all men and women of the Nation, but to all its material possessions, the Nation's soil and all its resources, all the wealth and all the wealth-producing processes within the Nation,…we reaffirm that all right to private property must be subordinated to the public right and welfare.”

Imagine what Ireland would look like today if those principles had been implemented, if the republic those words imagined had been established. We would not be burdened with taxes and spending cuts to pay off the debts of private bankers. We would not have seen our natural resources sold off from under our feet.

These are the principles on which republican politics are based. These are the principles of Sinn Fein. Today there are more republicans on the island of Ireland than at any time since 1921. The recent general election was a massive breakthrough for Sinn Féin, with our representation in Leinster House increasing from 4 to 14. We are now the real leaders of the opposition in the Dáil. Here in Cork City Jonathan O’Brien was elected as our first Sinn Féin TD in over 80 years. The 6-county elections saw further advances for Sinn Féin in that part of our country. And further testament to the growing level of popular support for republicanism was the recent Uniting Ireland conference in Cork, where we attracted nearly 600 people and filled City Hall.

Our task now is to build on that support, not just to make further electoral advances but to increase public support for a 32 county socialist republic. The growing political strength of republicanism means that goal is closer now than at any time since partition. But there is still much work to be done before it can be achieved. It is the duty of every one of us to aid in that work. A sovereign 32 county republic is not just the best memorial we can raise to men and women like Denis Spriggs, it is the only way in which the Irish people can achieve freedom, equality and prosperity.

Volunteer Denis Spriggs 90th anniversary commemoration

2011-07-25T04:28:00.000-07:00

We are gathered today to commemorate Volunteer Denis Spriggs, a member of the 1st Cork Brigade of the IRA who was murdered by British forces 90 years ago this month.
Denis Spriggs joined the IRA aged only 16. He played an active part in the Tan War and, as result of his activities was forced to go on the run. On the 9th July 1921 he had returned home briefly to visit his mother. His presence in the house was betrayed by a neighbour. That night the house was raided by Crown Forces. Denis Spriggs was seized, taken 100 yards from his home to the top of Blarney Street and shot dead. Only two days later, a truce came into effect between the British forces and the IRA.

It is important that we remember the sacrifices made by Denis Spriggs and those like him. Nobody forced him to step forward and join the struggle for Irish independence – indeed, he lied about his age in order to join the IRA. He saw the oppression of the Irish people under British rule, dreamed of a better future, and took action to make it happen. He knew from the start that by doing so he was putting his life on the line, but he did not let this stop him. Like thousands more Irishmen and women of his time, he believed in a better future for his country and as willing to sacrifice himself in order to make that dream a reality.
As an IRA volunteer, Denis Spriggs took up arms in order to establish the Irish Republic declared in 1916. The basis of that republic is set out in the Proclamation: “We declare the right of the people of Ireland to the ownership of Ireland, and to the unfettered control of Irish destinies, to be sovereign and indefeasible.” This is the core republican demand: that the Irish people have the right to control their own country, the freedom to decide their own future.

That is a freedom they have never been allowed to exercise. In the 1918 elections the Irish people declared their desire for independence, only to have the British suppress the First Dáil and impose martial law on the country. It was against this denial of the Irish people’s right to self-determination that young IRA volunteers like Denis Spriggs took up arms. The continuance of partition since 1921 has meant a further denial of Irish freedom. However the limited independence achieved by the 26 counties meant that for many people the struggle for independence appeared to be over. Freedom became something that was taken for granted. For some, talk of national sovereignty even came to sound old-fashioned. They forgot that freedom is not something that is just handed to us; it needs to be fought for and it needs to be defended.

Today, however, maybe we can see once again why national freedom, the sovereignty that Volunteers like Denis Spriggs fought for, really matters. Misgovernment by our political elite and the economic crisis have led to the loss of our economic sovereignty and our dependence on the EU and IMF. This means that the basic decisions about what happens in this country now require the permission of foreign agencies. Only this week their representatives were in Dublin to compile a quarterly report on the country’s progress. Irish government ministers were reduced to the position of schoolboys having their copybooks checked. As a result, economic decisions in this country are now being taken, not on the basis of what is good for the Irish people, but what serves the EU, the IMF, and the international banks and bondholders whose interests they represent.

For ordinary people, this means cutbacks in public services, reductions in social welfare, the unfair Universal Social Charge, new water charges and property taxes – and when they protest the answer of the government is to shrug and say “it’s not our decision”. People’s standard of living is being driven down and families who are struggling to make ends meet are being punished to pay for the sins of bankers and financial regulators, but there seems to be no one to whom they can appeal. This is what happens when you lose your freedom; decisions that affect your livelihood are made for you by others, without any regard for your interests. Today, with the centenary of the 1916 rising less than five years away, it seems the ownership of Ireland lies with international bondholders, and control of Irish destinies in the European Central Bank. This is where a political system stained by corruption and cronyism, and crippled by a lack of vision, has brought us.

The ideal of a sovereign Irish republic that Denis Spriggs gave his life for has never been more relevant than it is today. The demand of James Connolly for the “reconquest of Ireland by the Irish people” has never been more timely. If we are to rise above this crisis, we need to do more than rebuild our economy – we need to remake our politics. We need to create a new republic. Today we again have urgent need of men and women who, like Denis Spriggs, have a vision of a better Ireland and the courage and dedication to make it a reality.

The vision for a new republic can be discovered in the founding documents of an independent Ireland. In 1919, the First Dáil Eireann agreed a “Democratic Programme” which set out the principles that should govern an Irish Republic. It states: “We declare that the Nation's sovereignty extends not only to all men and women of the Nation, but to all its material possessions, the Nation's soil and all its resources, all the wealth and all the wealth-producing processes within the Nation,…we reaffirm that all right to private property must be subordinated to the public right and welfare.”

Imagine what Ireland would look like today if those principles had been implemented, if the republic those words imagined had been established. We would not be burdened with taxes and spending cuts to pay off the debts of private bankers. We would not have seen our natural resources sold off from under our feet.

These are the principles on which republican politics are based. These are the principles of Sinn Fein. Today there are more republicans on the island of Ireland than at any time since 1921. The recent general election was a massive breakthrough for Sinn Féin, with our representation in Leinster House increasing from 4 to 14. We are now the real leaders of the opposition in the Dáil. Here in Cork City Jonathan O’Brien was elected as our first Sinn Féin TD in over 80 years. The 6-county elections saw further advances for Sinn Féin in that part of our country. And further testament to the growing level of popular support for republicanism was the recent Uniting Ireland conference in Cork, where we attracted nearly 600 people and filled City Hall.

Our task now is to build on that support, not just to make further electoral advances but to increase public support for a 32 county socialist republic. The growing political strength of republicanism means that goal is closer now than at any time since partition. But there is still much work to be done before it can be achieved. It is the duty of every one of us to aid in that work. A sovereign 32 county republic is not just the best memorial we can raise to men and women like Denis Spriggs, it is the only way in which the Irish people can achieve freedom, equality and prosperity.

Sinn Féin to Protest Against Water Charges Today

2011-07-15T06:47:00.003-07:00

Sinn Féin to Protest Against Water Charges Today

Cork Sinn Féin will be holding a protest against the proposed introduction of water charges in the next budget today at 1pm in Daunt Square. The event is part of a national day of action on the issue, involving Sinn Féin members and public representatives across the country.

Speaking in advance of the protest in Cork, Cllr Chris O’Leary, the leader of the Sinn Féin group on the council, said:

“The government’s proposal to introduce a flat-rate household charge from next year is grossly unfair. It will be another regressive tax which, like the Universal Service Charge, will fall most heavily on the least well off. Families who are already struggling with unemployment, reduced pay, increased mortgage payments and higher energy bills cannot carry this extra burden.”

“Advocates of water charges claim they are needed to make householders save water and reduce waste – but the biggest waste takes place in the mains water system, before it ever reaches the taps. Figures in the city council’s 2010 annual report showed the amount of water being lost in the system increased last year from 51% to 55%.”

“Moreover, the plans by Fine Gael to transfer responsibility for water supply to a new utility company show plainly that privatisation is the next step in their agenda.”

“Sinn Féin is completely against the imposition of domestic water charges. The fact is there are obvious alternatives – fixing our leaky water mains, and encouraging water-harvesting and grey-water recycling in homes. Today’s protest is only the first step in our campaign of opposition to water charges and the privatisation of local services.”

For further information or comment contact Cllr Chris O’Leary @ 087-2794307

Sinn Féin to Protest Against Water Charges Today

2011-07-15T06:47:00.001-07:00

Sinn Féin Rejects Council Plan to Slash Maintenance-Nugent

2011-07-12T03:41:00.000-07:00

Sinn Féin Rejects Council Plan to Slash Maintenance-Nugent

Sinn Féin councillor Mick Nugent last night expressed his shock and outrage at plans to slash the City Council’s budget for maintenance by €700,000. The proposal was contained in an interim financial report presented to the council by the City Manager last night.

Cllr Nugent said:

“There can be no question of targeting the council’s already inadequate housing maintenance budget to make up the shortfall in its finances.”

“According to the Manager, revenues from a number of sources, including parking charges and government funding, have come in below expectations in the year to date. As a result, he is proposing to cut €700,000 from the budget for housing maintenance.”

“As things stand, there is a massive waiting list for maintenance. Many families have been forced to endure years living in houses which are damp, leaking or otherwise unfit. Housing has suffered in the last two sets of council estimates and cannot be cut back any further.”

“The Manager’s proposal is one more example of cutbacks being targeted at the most vulnerable and those least able to bear them. Questions must also asked about why council revenue is so far under target so quickly after the estimates that were passed last December. Sinn Féin rejects any suggestion of further cutbacks to the budget for housing maintenance and will oppose them in the council chamber.”

For further information contact Cllr Mick Nugent @ 087-6755793

O’Brien Criticises TDs Over Hospital Vote

2011-07-07T04:04:00.000-07:00

O’Brien Criticises TDs Over Hospital Vote

Sinn Féin TD for Cork North Central Jonathan O’Brien has criticised Fine Gael and Labour TDs for failing people on the Northside by voting against a Sinn Féin bill calling on the Government to halt its policy of cuts and closures to hospital services.

Deputy O’Brien asked why local TDs Dara Murphy and Kathleen Lynch did not vote to stop health cutbacks, including the closure of the Orthopaedic Hospital, by supporting Sinn Féin's bill.

"For too long access to quality health services in Ireland has depended on how much money you earn and where you live. This is being further compounded by the Government's policy of downgrading services at a number of hospitals across the country. In my own constituency, the closure of the Orthopaedic means there will not be a single public hospital serving the people of Cork’s Northside.”

"In the Dáil yesterday we presented local TDs with a clear option, to support the Sinn Féin motion and support the retention of services at hospitals like the Orthopaedic. Do otherwise and guarantee the opposite. The TDs made their position clear."

“I am particularly disappointed that local TDs like Dara Murphy and Kathleen Lynch, who had been vocal in their support of the Orthopaedic during the election campaign, voted against the Sinn Féin motion – particularly as one Fine Gael TD, Denis Naughton from Roscommon, crossed the floor to support us. The people of Cork’s Northside will rightly ask these TDs what became of the promises they made on the issue during the election campaign.”

For further information contact Deputy Jonathan O’Brien at 086-0274142

Cork City councillor calls on local TDs to support Sinn Féin Dáil motion

2011-07-06T09:46:00.000-07:00

Cork City councillor calls on local TDs to support Sinn Féin Dáil motion

Sinn Féin Councillor Mick Nugent has called on all Cork TDs to support the Sinn Féin Dáil motion on the impending crisis in the health services.

The motion which has been tabled by the Sinn Féin Dáil team calls on the Government to live up to their electoral commitments and ensure equal access to safe and efficient hospital services for all, without discrimination.

Speaking today Councillor Nugent said:

“Our health system is at breaking point. We are facing an impending crisis in our public hospitals due to the shortage of junior doctors from 11 July.

“This is not news. We have known for years that the hospital system is totally over-reliant on junior doctors. Successive Governments have recognised this but have failed to address the problem and now it is looming again, worse than ever.

“We now look set to lose A&E departments in hospitals across the state. Fine Gael and Labour made repeated pre-election commitments to maintain services at smaller hospitals. These commitments have proved worthless as they impose savage health cuts because they value senior bank bondholders more than they value patients in our public health services.

“The Sinn Féin Dáil motion calls on the Government and all those TDs who made firm promises to their constituents that they would protect hospitals including Roscommon, Navan, Letterkenny, Portlaoise, Loughlinstown, Ballinasloe, Limerick, Clonmel, Mallow, Bantry and St.Mary's Orthopaedic Hospital in Cork City, to stick by their word and stand up for the people who rely on these hospitals.

“We want the Government to stand by its electoral commitments and ensure equal access to safe and efficient hospital services for all, without discrimination based on income or geographic location.

“I am calling on all Cork TDs to support this important motion in the Dáil and to stand up for the people that elected them.”

ENDS

Note to editors: Text of private members’ motion below.
The motion will be debated on Tuesday with a vote on Wednesday.

GNÓ COMHALTAÍ PRÍOBHÁIDEACHA
PRIVATE MEMBERS’ BUSINESS

“That Dáil Éireann calls on the Government to stand by its commitments and ensure:
— the continuation of all existing accident and emergency services at hospitals across
the State as promised by candidates of the Fine Gael and Labour parties in advance of
the General Election, including Roscommon, Navan, Letterkenny, Portlaoise, St.
Columcille’s (Loughlinstown), Portiuncula (Ballinasloe), the Mid-Western
(Limerick), Clonmel, Mallow and Bantry;
— the retention of key services such as orthopaedic services at St. Mary’s Hospital, Cork
and the return of comprehensive breast cancer services to Sligo, also as committed by
candidates of the parties now in Government; and
— equal access to safe and efficient hospital services for all, without discrimination
based on income or geographic location.” — Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin, Gerry Adams,
Michael Colreavy, Seán Crowe, Pearse Doherty, Dessie Ellis, Martin Ferris, Mary
Lou McDonald, Sandra McLellan, Pádraig Mac Lochlainn, Jonathan O'Brien,
Aengus Ó Snodaigh, Brian Stanley, Peadar Tóibín.

Residents Must Be Heard on Knocknaheeny Plan- Nugent

2011-07-06T03:20:00.000-07:00

Residents Must Be Heard on Knocknaheeny Plan- Nugent

Sinn Féin councillor Mick Nugent has welcomed the publication of plans for the next phase of the Knocknaheeny Regeneration Project, but said there needs to be improved consultation with residents before the plan is finalised. He was speaking after last night’s meeting of the council’s Housing Committee.

Cllr Nugent said:

“I welcome the announcement of plans for the next phase of the Knocknaheeny Regeneration Project, which are long overdue.”

“However lessons need to be learned from the experience of previous phases. There needs to be greater consultation with the local community, to deal with people’s concerns and ensure that all residents are able to buy in to the project. In this respect I believe the consultation period needs to be extended beyond the date of early August which has been indicated.”

“A number of other issues also need to be addressed. How does the council plan to re-house residents who will be moved out of their homes during the regeneration project, especially those who currently own their properties? This is of particular concern given the shortage of social housing in the city and the length of the housing waiting list.”

“Given that work on the regeneration project is not slated to commence until 2014, and will take several years to complete, the council also needs to put in place a maintenance plan for the upkeep of its housing stock in Knocknaheeny in the interim. It also needs to give residents specific dates for the completion of various phases of the project, so they can plan around the maintenance of their own houses, gardens, etc.”

“Sinn Fein plans on holding a public meeting in Knocknaheeny in the near future which will offer residents the opportunity to have their say on the council’s plans. The feedback we receive will also inform the party’s submission to council on the regeneration plan. Details of the meeting will be forthcoming shortly.”

For further information contact Cllr Mick Nugent @ 087-6755793

Second Sinn Féin Summer School to Discuss Debt Crisis

2011-07-04T03:40:00.000-07:00

Second Sinn Féin Summer School to Discuss Debt Crisis

The Sinn Féin summer school Scoil Samhradh na Saoirse will take place for the second time in Ballyvourney next weekend (8th and 9th July). The debt crisis and the economy will be a major topic of discussion at this year’s summer school, with speakers including SIPTU President Jack O’Connor making contributions alongside Sinn Féin Finance Spokesperson Pearse Doherty.

This is the second year the party has run the summer school, which is designed as a vehicle for debate on the major issues facing the country. Last year’s summer school included a number of prominent speakers, including Cork Hurling Captain Donal Óg Cusack.

This year’s summer school will be opened by Cllr Toireasa Ferris, while Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams will give the keynote address.

The Reverend Mervyn Gibson will address the conference on the future of loyalism on Friday night, while Jimmy Barry Murphy and artist Robert Ballagh will be among a number of speakers discussing the need for a new Irish revival on Saturday morning.

Saturday afternoon will focus on the debt crisis in Ireland and abroad. Speakers will include Pearse Doherty TD (Sinn Féin Finance spokesperson), Jack O’Connor (President of SIPTU), Mary Smithwick (Politics Editor of the Evening Echo), Huginn Freyr Thorsteinsson (Political Advisor to the Finance Minister of Iceland), Yanis Varufackis (Professor of Economics University of Athens), and Tom McDonnell (Policy Analyst at TASC).

The conference will be closed by Mary Lou McDonald TD, Vice-President of Sinn Féin.

For further information or comment contact DJ O’Driscoll @ 087-7435064

O’Brien Calls for Support for Orthopaedic Protest

2011-06-28T08:49:00.001-07:00

O’Brien Calls for Support for Orthopaedic Protest

Sinn Féin TD Jonathan O’Brien has called on people to support today’s rally against the closure of the Orthopaedic Hospital.

Deputy O’Brien said:

“Cork’s Northside has been progressively stripped of health services by successive governments. The Orthopaedic is the last public hospital on the Northside. It must not be allowed to close.”

“I will be supporting the rally outside the hospital today, as will local Sinn Fein councillors Mick Nugent and Thomas Gould. I would encourage everybody in the area who can make it to come out and show their support for retaining local health services in the Northside.”

For further information contact Deputy Jonathan O’Brien at 086-0274142

Community Warden Scheme Must Be Retained-O'Leary

2011-06-28T08:46:00.000-07:00

Community Warden Scheme Must Be Retained-O'Leary

Sinn Féin councillor Chris O’Leary has said money which is currently earmarked for councillors’ conference fees could be used to save the community warden scheme.

Cllr O’Leary said:

“As things stand, the community warden scheme will come to an end in August when the current government funding runs out. Five jobs will be lost and a valuable service taken away from communities.”

“Once funding for the wardens runs out, the recruitment embargo in the public sector means they cannot be re-employed, even if money to continue the scheme subsequently becomes available. The council should do everything, therefore, the keep the scheme going for as long as possible.”

“One source of funds which could be used to continue the scheme is the money currently earmarked for conference fees. Where councillors do not choose to draw this money down, it should be possible to re-allocate it to the community warden scheme.”

For further information or comment contact Cllr Chris O’Leary @ 087-2794307

A Bad Deal for Customers and for the Council-Nugent

2011-06-28T08:44:00.000-07:00

A Bad Deal for Customers and for the Council-Nugent

Sinn Féin councillor Mick Nugent has said the proposed privatisation of the city’s refuse service is a bad deal for customers and for the council.

Cllr Nugent said:

“Sinn Féin is completely opposed to the manager’s proposal.”

“Under the terms of the deal, the waiver scheme will cease as of April 2013. This will mean full charges being applied to 5,736 households currently receiving OAP waivers and 7,144 households in receipt of fixed charge waivers. Not only will this mean another burden on hard-pressed families – it is likely to result in a rise in illegal dumping, with the city council paying the cost of the clean-up.”

“That the council’s customer base of 25,000 is to be handed over to Country Clean with no remuneration for the city council also raises serious questions over this deal.”

“The manager last night gave no indication that he had engaged in any process of competitive tendering in order to get the best value for the council and its customers. The manner in which the deal with Country Clean was closed before the manager even informed the council of the negotiations lacks transparency and is undemocratic. Rather than privatisation, we need a risk equalisation scheme which would make private operators contribute towards the cost of the waiver scheme and offer a level playing field for the public service to compete.”

For further information contact Cllr Mick Nugent @ 087-6755793

Manager Must Retain Public Refuse Service-Nugent

2011-06-27T04:42:00.001-07:00

Manager Must Retain Public Refuse Service-Nugent

Speaking in advance of the Manger’s report on the future of the city’s refuse service this evening, Sinn Féin councillor Mick Nugent has said the public refuse service must be retained.

Cllr Nugent said:

“Any move to privatise the refuse service would be simply unacceptable.”

“More than 5,600 households in the city are currently receiving full waivers from bin charges. These include the elderly, the disabled and the unemployed, who simply cannot afford extra charges. If the service is privatised these waivers will be withdrawn.”

“The public refuse service has been operating on an uneven playing field to date, carrying the cost of the waiver scheme while private operators are free to cherry-pick the most profitable customers and routes. Instead of selling off or closing down the service, we need to make sure it can operate on a level playing field in future.”

“This can be done – at no cost to the taxpayer – by introducing a risk-equalisation scheme, similar to that which already exists in the health insurance market, whereby private operators would pay a contribution towards the maintenance of the waiver scheme.”

For further information contact Cllr Mick Nugent @ 087-6755793

Over 500 Attend Conference on Uniting Ireland

2011-06-27T04:40:00.001-07:00

Over 500 Attend Conference on Uniting Ireland

Over 500 people packed City Hall at the weekend for a conference on Uniting Ireland hosted by Sinn Féin.

Sinn Féin president Gerry Adams was joined on the platform by broadcasting legend Micheál Ó Muircheartaigh, Ann Piggot of Cork Council of Trades Unions, Barney O'Reilly former CEO of Kerry Educational Service and former IFA leader Ruaidhri Deasy.

In his keynote address at the event – the second of a series of conferences on the theme I dTreo Poblacht Nua/Towards a New Republic – the Sinn Féin leader said that partition had a “catastrophic effect on the island of Ireland and hindered economic development”.

He referred to Cork as the birthplace of “social reformers, activists and rebels,” citing O'Donovan Rossa and William Thompson as two examples.

Ann Piggot, a teacher who is president of Cork Council of Trades Unions, said there were more similarities between Ireland north and south than we realise, and pointed to the fact that physical barriers and imaginary borders were ignored by sporting, artistic and cultural organisations. She focused on the plight of workers in the recession and on the contact and co-operation between workers organisations from both sides of the border in ICTU. “Justice and unity are within our grasp,” she said.

Barney O'Reilly, former CEO of Kerry VEC focused on the education system. Founded in 1831 as “a national school system”, it was based on religious diversity at the beginning. As time passed, he said, “separation was the best we could do to manage diversity” with the VEC's being “a small bridgehead in a denominational system”.

The audience of hundreds joined enthusiastically in the discussion when it was opened to the floor on two occasions during the evening. Concluding the event, Sinn Féin TD Martin Ferris said the conference was the opening of a conversation about Ireland’s future and it was up to everyone present to take it forward from here.

For further information contact Deputy Jonathan O’Brien at 086-0274142

Conference Will Point to Economic Anomalies of Partition

2011-06-23T03:20:00.001-07:00

Conference Will Point to Economic Anomalies of Partition

EXTENDING the frontiers of all-island co-operation will be a key theme of contributions to a conference in Cork this weekend (Saturday 25 June), entitled 'Uniting Ireland: towards a new republic'.

At a similar conference organised by Sinn Féin in Dublin last Saturday, speakers such as Dr Padraic White, former managing director of the Industrial Development Authority, and Dr John Bradley, an international consultant in the area of development and industrial strategy, joined Sinn Féin president, Gerry Adams TD, and the party's deputy leader, Mary Lou McDonald TD to argue for the benefits of an all-Ireland economy.

Dr Padraig White, who is chairman of the Louth Economic Forum, said “We have already travelled on the path of economic co-operation to a much greater extent than most people thought possible.” He pointed to Tourism Ireland, set up under the Belfast Agreement and which has 160 people working for the island as a whole, promoting “seamlessly the Giants' Causeway and the Lakes of Killarney”.

Dr John Bradley told the conference that “partition after 1922 was an economic as well as a political disaster. In 1926, the first year for which data are available, only 7% of total employment in the newly created Irish Free State was in manufacturing. In Northern Ireland the figure was over 30%, over four times higher. By amputating the industrialised North, partition presented the southern government with a massive challenge of industrialisation and modernisation.”

“The island economy is a reality”, he said adding that competent firms in the post-Belfast Agreement era simply traded across the border. “But we still lack an all-island policy framework that will support and strengthen the SME sector and permit firms to grow and prosper. The real partitionists are the policy makers. Not the business people,” he concluded.

Speaking in advance of the conference in Cork, Sinn Féin TD Jonathan O’Brien said:

“One aim of this conference is to point out that Irish unity makes economic sense. Two administrations on one small island are a waste of resources. Co-operation is the way forward, whether it be in terms of attracting tourism and foreign direct investment, planning infrastructure, or developing our renewal energy resources.”

Towards a New Republic – I dtreo Poblacht Nua
Saturday 25th June, 7.30-9.30pm
Concert Hall, City Hall, Cork
Admission free

For further information or comment contact Deputy Jonathan O’Brien @ 085-2133907

Sinn Féin to Hold Major Conference on Uniting Ireland

2011-06-21T03:52:00.001-07:00

Sinn Féin to Hold Major Conference on Uniting Ireland

Sinn Féin will host a major conference on Uniting Ireland in Cork City Hall next Saturday (25th June). The conference, which follows on a successful event in Dublin over the weekend, will feature speakers including Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams, legendary broadcaster Micheál Ó Muircheartaigh, historian Dr Ruan O’Donnell, and Ann Piggott, president of the Cork Council of Trades Unions.

Speaking in advance of the event, Jonathan O’Brien TD said:

“The essence of republicanism is expressed in the 1916 Proclamation when it states: “We declare the right of the people of Ireland to the ownership of Ireland, and to the unfettered control of Irish destinies, to be sovereign and indefeasible.”

“Today, with the centenary of the rising less than five years away, it seems the ownership of Ireland lies with international bondholders, and control of Irish destinies in the European Central Bank. This is where a political system stained by corruption and cronyism, and crippled by lack of vision, has brought us. The demand of James Connolly for the “reconquest of Ireland by the Irish people” has never been more relevant than it is today.”

“We need to do more than rebuild our economy – we need to remake our politics. We need build a new republic.”

“But this means addressing the issue of Irish Unity. After all, the Irish people include those of the whole island, not just 26 counties.”

“Partition has inhibited the development of both parts of Ireland. It means two administrations on one small island, creating massive duplication and waste. It inhibits rational planning in terms of developing infrastructure, attracting foreign direct investment, energy policy and tourism. We end up competing with one another for jobs or tourist dollars instead of uniting our energies to ensure we all succeed.”

“A United Ireland is an opportunity for national renewal and a new beginning. Never have these been so badly needed as now. That is why Sinn Fein is working to promote a national conversation on Irish Unity, of which this conference is part.”

“I would like to invite people across Cork and Munster to come along on Saturday and be part of the conversation. It is your future that is at stake.”

Towards a New Republic – I dtreo Poblacht Nua
Saturday 25th June, 7.30-9.30pm
Concert Hall, City Hall, Cork
Admission free

For further information or comment contact Deputy Jonathan O’Brien @ 085-2133907

Sinn Féin to Launch Cork Uniting Ireland Conference on Monday

2011-06-17T06:59:00.001-07:00

Sinn Féin TDs Jonathan O’Brien and Sandra McLellan, along with city, county and town councillors from across Cork, will be at City Hall on Monday to publicise the party’s upcoming conference, Towards a New Republic – I dtreo Poblacht Nua.

The conference, which takes place in Cork City Hall on 25th June, is part of a national conversation the party is working to promote on uniting Ireland and building a new republic. Speakers will include Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams, legendary broadcaster Micheál Ó Muircheartaigh, historian Dr Ruan O’Donnell, and Ann Piggott, president of the Cork Council of Trades Unions.

The Sinn Féin TDs and councillors will launch the conference programme at City Hall at 1pm on Monday.

For further information or comment contact Deputy Jonathan O’Brien @ 085-2133907

One Hundred Days of Broken Promises-O'Brien

2011-06-17T06:56:00.000-07:00

One Hundred Days of Broken Promises-O'Brien

Sinn Féin TD Jonathan O’Brien today said the government’s first one hundred days in office are littered with broken promises – including Fine Gael’s election pledge to guarantee the future of the Orthopaedic Hospital. He was speaking outside Leinster House, where he joined other Sinn Féin TDs in a protest to mark the government’s first 100 days in office.

Deputy O’Brien said:

“After just 100 days in office, the government already has a series of u-turns and a clutch of broken promises to its credit. Of particular concern to people on Cork’s Northside is Fine Gael’s abandonment of its election pledge to keep the Orthopaedic open.”

“Since my election I have repeatedly questioned Minister for Health Dr James Reilly on his plans for the future of the hospital, and urged him to retain it as a centre of excellence for healthcare on the Northside. His responses have been consistently evasive – in sharp contrast to what Fine Gael told people in the media and on the doors in the recent election.”

“Government has abandoned its promise to re-negotiate the EU/IMF bailout and since coming to office has handed billions in taxpayers’ money over to the banks. There is understandable suspicion that yesterday’s statement on imposing burden sharing on senior bondholders in Anglo Irish Bank and Irish Nationwide is simply a stunt to mark 100 days of this government.”

“There have been dozens more u-turns in health provision and education, the introduction of water and household charges and on third-level fees.”

“Fine Gael and Labour have adopted almost the entire economic policy of the failed and rejected Fianna Fáil-Green government.

“In just 100 days it is clear that the people deserve better than what this administration has to offer.”

For further information or comment contact Deputy Jonathan O’Brien @ 085-2133907

Government Ignores Election Pledge to Reduce Quangos- O'Leary

2011-06-09T06:04:00.001-07:00

Government Ignores Election Pledge to Reduce Quangos- O'Leary

Sinn Féin councillor Chris O’Leary has accused the government of creating more quangos, in a direct reversal of its election pledge to reduce the number of such bodies in the public service.

Cllr O’Leary said:

“During the election Fine Gael made great play of its promise to cut the number of quangos and increase the efficiency of the public service.”

“Since taking office however, they have done the complete opposite. For instance, they have announced a new semi-state body, Irish Water, which will take over the running of water services from local authorities, and a “Special Delivery Unit” in the health service to cut waiting lists.”

“Neither of these will do anything to promote more effective services – all they will do is add more layers of bureaucracy. In our health service, we already have the HSE superimposed over the old heath boards: now Minister Reilly is proposing to add another layer of management with the SDU.”

“In its first hundred days this government has already made it clear that it does not represent a new politics or a break with the past. Last week we heard that numerous government TDs and ministers are employing their relatives as constituency secretaries at the taxpayer’s expense. The establishment of a slew of new quangos is more evidence that the coalition is engaged in business as usual.”

For further information contact Cllr Chris O’Leary @ 087-2794307

O’Brien Appointed to Key Dáil Committees

2011-06-09T05:47:00.001-07:00

O’Brien Appointed to Key Dáil Committees

Sinn Féin TD Jonathan O’Brien has been appointed to the Dáil Committee on Justice, Equality and Defence, and to the Select Committee on Finance, Public Expenditure and Reform.

Welcoming the announcement, Deputy O’Brien said:

“I am delighted to have been appointed to two such important committees, where I will be able to influence legislation on issues that are of critical importance.”

“I plan to use my position on the Justice, Equality and Defence Committee to campaign for greater consistency is sentencing, reform of the judiciary, and increased support for communities in the fight against drugs.”

“My position on the Select Committee on Finance, Public Expenditure and Reform will give me an opportunity to resist government attacks on the public service while putting forward suggestions to bring about genuine improvements in how it operates.”

For further information or comment contact Deputy Jonathan O’Brien @ 085-2133907

Council Must Tackle Issue of Vacant Houses-Nugent

2011-06-08T03:25:00.001-07:00

Council Must Tackle Issue of Vacant Houses

Speaking after a meeting of Cork City Council’s housing committee last night, Sinn Féin councillor Mick Nugent said the local authority must tackle the issue of vacant council houses, some of which are currently being left empty for up to two years.

The committee had earlier referred a motion from Cllr Nugent, calling for a maximum turnaround of three months on vacant houses, to the next full council meeting for a decision.

Cllr Nugent said:

“With 9,000 people on the council’s housing list, it is no longer tolerable that perfectly good houses should be left sitting there for 6 months, a year, or in the case of one house I know of in my own ward, two years.”

“Not only is it a disgrace that these houses should be empty while there are people in desperate need of accommodation; they frequently become dumping grounds or magnets for anti-social behaviour. The presence of empty, boarded up houses in an area promotes an air of neglect which can be the breeding ground for other social problems.”

“In these straightened times, when the council’s budget has been reduced, surely it becomes all the more important to make the best use possible of its existing resources, and ensure a quick turnaround of houses as they become vacant?”

For further information contact Cllr Mick Nugent @ 087-6755793

Sinn Féin Will Campaign Against Household Charge – O’Brien

2011-06-01T03:40:00.001-07:00

Sinn Féin Will Campaign Against Household Charge – O’Brien

Sinn Féin TD Jonathan O’Brien has described the government’s plans to bring in a flat-rate household charge in the new year as an unfair and regressive measure which will penalise the least well off.

Deputy O’Brien said:

“A flat-rate household charge, which means the same bill for the millionaire’s mansion and the pensioner in a council house, is grossly unfair and will place the greatest burden on the least well off in society.”

“While the government claims the introduction of water charges is about conservation, the proposal to introduce a flat-rate charge proves it is nothing of the kind. It is simply and clearly another tax – an unjust and regressive one at that.”

“While people have been getting used to the Labour Party abandoning its election pledges, two such u-turns in as many days – on third level fees and on water charges – is quite breathtaking.”

“Sinn Féin is totally opposed to the new taxes and will be campaigning against them by every means available to us.”

For further information or comment contact Deputy Jonathan O’Brien @ 085-2133907

HSE Must Step in to Save Childcare Facility

2011-06-01T03:38:00.001-07:00

HSE Must Step in to Save Childcare Facility

Northside Sinn Féin councillors Thomas Gould and Mick Nugent have said the HSE must act immediately to save the Little Steps Creche in Farranree, after it emerged the facility is due to close on 1st July.

They said:

“Little Steps is one of only 8 non-private community childcare facilities in Cork City providing affordable childcare. Without this facility, many parents will struggle to afford childcare and some may be forced to leave the workforce."

“The closure of the facility would also see the loss of 17 jobs at the crèche which is one of the most significant employers in Farranree.”

"The créche has suffered from ongoing financial problems in recent months as a result of cutbacks to community development projects, which have already forced the Farranree Community Development Project to close. The failure of the Fine Gael-Labour government to reverse their predecessors’ cuts to community supports means the responsibility for the closure rests with them.”

“The HSE must now step in to save the facility and secure the future of this vital service.”

For further information or comment phone Cllr Thomas Gould @ 087-3021551 or Cllr Mick Nugent @ 087-6755793

Robust Data Protection Legislation Required – O’Brien

2011-05-31T04:55:00.001-07:00

Robust Data Protection Legislation Required – O’Brien

Sinn Féin Justice Spokesperson Jonathan O’Brien has described as wholly inept the procedures being employed by many companies and
bodies that gather and retain personal data.

The findings of the Data Protection Commissioner’s annual report detail numerous security breaches which were facilitated by weak data protection policies on the part of certain organisations. The Government now needs to step up to the mark and ensure that adequate personal data protections are introduced for the general public.

Speaking today Deputy O’Brien said:

“As it stands, a data controller needs the consent of the individual in question in order to disclose personal information to a third party. This is not happening.

“The Data Protection Commissioner has exposed many serious incidents of improper accessing of personal data records in the insurance industry. It appears that Insurance Link, a database maintained by the insurance industry containing the details of around 2.5 million claims, is wide open to data access abuse. It was found there was no access policy or restrictions and there were cases of insurance staff viewing the details of people they knew or those who came to their attention through the media.

“The report also showed situations where banks utilised customers’ direct debit information for marketing purposes.

“I was shocked by the worrying number of complaints in the report in relation to ‘big brother initiatives’ such as a CCTV camera in a school toilet and the introduction of biometric systems in schools and workplaces.

“Sinn Féin calls for the introduction and consistent enforcement of more robust data protection legislation, with meaningful penalties for violations.

“Today in the Dáil during the debate on the white collar crime, Criminal Justice Bill I will again be asking for the Minister to move swiftly to introduce the promised whistleblower legislation. Any data protection legislation needs to facilitate, rather than inhibit whistle-blowing in the public interest.

“In the same vein we will also be looking for protections for individuals who would possibly come forward with information around white collar crime to avoid the withholding information charge proposed in the Criminal Justice Bill.”

For further information contact Deputy Jonathan O’Brien @ 085-2133907

Action Needed on Prison Conditions - O’Brien

2011-05-31T04:14:00.000-07:00

Action Needed on Prison Conditions - O’Brien

Sinn Féin Justice Spokesperson Jonathan O’Brien has described as “deeply worrying” the fact that the prison service failed to properly investigate the deaths of prisoners in custody.

Deputy O’Brien called for the recommendations contained in the report by the Inspector of Prisons, Judge Michael Reilly to be addressed as soon as possible.
Speaking yesterday Deputy O’Brien said:

“Sinn Féin supports Judge Reilly’s timetabled demands on prison governors to deal with substandard conditions and practices within the prison system. The Minister for Justice needs to ensure that these demands are maintained and met.

“It is not good enough in this day and age that the prison service doesn’t properly investigate the deaths of prisoners in custody. There is a need for suitable complaints and disciplinary procedures.

“Living conditions in prisons need to be reasonable. They should not be dirty, deplorable living spaces with broken windows or damaged equipment, like the circumstances that Judge Reilly reported on.

“Judge Reilly’s call for a timetable for the elimination of overcrowding could be helped by the Minister for Justice moving as quickly as possible to ensure that the measures included in the Fines Bill as alternatives to prison are put into practice.

“Sinn Féin strongly welcomes any move towards drug-free support areas in all prisons and this needs to be a priority for the Minister.

“We have also called for the introduction of an Ombudsman for Prisoners, who in addition to the current powers of the independent Prison Inspector would also be empowered to investigate and adjudicate prisoner complaints and investigate deaths in custody.”

For further information contact Deputy Jonathan O’Brien @ 085-2133907

Council Must Avoid False Economies-Gould

2011-05-31T04:13:00.000-07:00

Council Must Avoid False Economies-Gould

Reacting to last night’s report on savings achieved by Cork City Council under the Croke Park Agreement, Sinn Féin councillor Thomas Gould said the council must avoid false economies and asked management to detail the impact of the measures on services.

Cllr Gould said:

“There are several aspects of this report which are to be welcomed. The savings achieved on consultancy fees, on procurement and in the cost of the council’s electricity supply are all steps in the right direction. Where the council succeeds in achieving genuine efficiencies, its management is to be applauded.”

“However the largest category of saving identified in the report is staff costs. During 2010 the council’s wage bill was reduced by over €10 million and staff numbers fell by 201.”

“My question is to what extent this reduction represents straightforward cutbacks rather than genuine savings due to improved efficiency. This would only be known if the report detailed the impact of these measures on council services - which it does not.”

“I would also be wary that the council could be engaged in false economies. To what extent is the work of council staff being replaced by that of outside contractors, for example? What is the social cost of delays in basic housing maintenance or housing families in need? I believe there is a need to read through the lines of this report rather than simply accepting it at face value.”

For further information or comment contact Cllr Thomas Gould @ 087-3021551

New Letting Priorities a Step Backwards-O'Leary

2011-05-31T04:12:00.001-07:00

New Letting Priorities a Step Backwards-O'Leary

Sinn Féin councillor Chris O’Leary has said the new scheme of letting priorities for social housing allocations adopted by Cork City Council last night represents a step backwards for housing policy.

Cllr O’Leary said:

“The new guidelines for housing allocations were adopted by city council last night with minimal debate and with little time for councillors to analyse the final document. They represent a step backwards for housing policy in the city”

“Under the guidelines, financial hardship will no longer be a priority category for housing allocations. This is in spite of the fact that it is perhaps the largest single category under which new tenants are allocated houses at present.”

“The new rules do nothing to improve transparency or move to a points-based allocations system, despite Sinn Féin having succeeded in getting council to pass a motion to this effect last year. Nor do they give any protection to tenants threatened with anti-social behaviour.”

“These guidelines continue the council’s and the government’s strategy on housing – to deny that housing provision is in crisis rather than seriously attempt to deal with the issue.”

For further information or comment contact Cllr Chris O’Leary @ 087-2794307

Questions to be Answered Over “Hanging Garden” Nugent

2011-05-30T04:21:00.000-07:00

Questions to be Answered Over “Hanging Garden” -Nugent

Sinn Féin councillor Mick Nugent has said there are many questions to be answered over the garden commissioned by the city council from Diarmiud Gavin.

Cllr Nugent said:

“The revelations in the media this weekend about the cost of the “hanging garden” commissioned by Cork City Council from celebrity gardener Diarmuid Gavin are frankly incredible. At a time of severe cutbacks in council services, people will justifiably be asking many questions around this project.”

“Firstly there is the issue of what this garden will actually cost the council, including its ongoing maintenance in the future. There appear to be several contradictory accounts of the cost and it is important that council officials give a clear and detailed breakdown of the final bill.”

“Secondly there is the issue of how this project was authorised and why it has only come into the public domain now.”

“I also have questions around the circumstances of the alleged intervention by Tourism Minister Leo Varadkar. It was suggested in the media over the weekend that when city officials were expressing reservations over the project Minister Varadkar stepped in and shortly after it received the go-ahead. I would like to know if this is the case and, if so, what was the nature of Minister Varadkar’s intervention with the city council.”

“Overall, this episode raises serious questions over how money is spent by the council and about transparency and accountability in its budgetary procedures.”

For further information contact Cllr Mick Nugent @ 087-6755793

Criminal Justice Bill Must Reform Sentencing Practices-O'Brien

2011-05-30T03:25:00.001-07:00

Criminal Justice Bill Must Reform Sentencing Practices

Responding to the news that 6,681 people were imprisoned for non-payment of fines last year, Sinn Féin Justice Spokesperson Jonathan O’Brien TD has said the new Criminal Justice Bill must reform sentencing practices.

Deputy O’Brien said:

“It is scandalous that up to half of those sentenced to prison are there for non-payment of fines, while a convicted drug dealer can escape with a suspended sentence, and the corrupt bankers who have brought ruin to our country are not even before the courts.”

“Sentencing policy in Ireland is badly in need of reform. The Criminal Justice (Community Service) Bill which is currently before the Oireachtas provides us with the opportunity to do just this. Sinn Féin broadly welcomes this bill, but wants to see its provisions strengthened to ensure that community service orders are used as widely as possible for minor offences including non-payment of fines.”

“Concurrently, we need to reform sentencing policy to ensure that the serious criminals who ought to be behind bars are put there.”

For further information contact Deputy Jonathan O’Brien @ 085-2133907