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BALBRIGGAN LOCAL Your Community News Volume 3 Issue 2 - December 2017

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STRICT DEADLINE FOR JANUARY EDITION: 15th December for inclusion in our January edition.

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BALBRIGGAN LOCAL-DECEMBER 2017

Local News

Fingal adopts progressive budget of €227m

Fingal County Council has adopted a budget for 2018 which will see an increased investment of €11.3m from last year to ensure the Council keeps pace with the increased demands of a county that has the fastest growing and youngest population in Ireland. The €227m budget specially targets investment in five key areas of the Council’s overall strategy which will ultimately benefit all citizens of Fingal. These are Housing and Homelessness, Economic Development, Services to Citizens, Building Communities and Growing Tourism. Expenditure on housing and homelessness rises by almost 11 per cent to €61m while the Council’s road works programme will increase by nine per cent to almost €26m. Spending on Economic Development and Tourism will also be up by nine per cent to €21m and there is a five per cent increase in community investment. The 2018 Budget represents a spend of €767.25 for every one of the county’s 296,214 residents. The County Council estimates that for every €1 it spends an additional €1.72 is spent downstream in the economy - potentially bringing an economic boost of up to €0.5 billion. The employment impact is also substantial and 4

BALBRIGGAN LOCAL-DECEMBER 2017

for every position directly employed within the council, an additional three jobs are supported as a result. This means that the total employment contribution from Budget 2018 is over 4,000 jobs. Councillors opted to reduce the basic rate of Local Property Tax (LPT) by 10 per cent, yielding an extra €1.9m in discretionary income, and this has been ring-fenced for spending in key areas, This will see an additional €730,000 being invested in library services, community events and facilities and the arts programme and €500,000 being used to fund the Council’s initiatives to tackle homelessness. A further €113,000 will be spent on the Council’s housing stock, €250,000 will be invested in parks, open spaces and playgrounds with €200,000 going towards additional street lighting and road maintenance. The remaining €116,000 will be spent on tourism promotion and funding for events throughout the county. For the first time since 2009, Councillors voted to increase Commercial Rates by two per cent. This is the first increase in rates in Fingal since 2009 and follows a number of rate decreases in the early part of this decade. Fingal, which has the highest compliance of rate payment in Ireland

at 95.63% for 2016, also retains the distinction of having the lowest rate among the four Dublin Local Authorities. There will be an additional €650,000 spent on public lighting, traffic, footpaths and bridge maintenance and a similar amount will be used to fund remedial and refurbishment works on community centres throughout the County. A further €650,000 will used to provide funds for capital works on the Council’s housing stock including heating system upgrades and the replacement of items such as doors and windows. A further €250,000 will go towards economic development promotion and improvement works at the Dublin Enterprise Zone, while €270,000 is to be spent on refurbishing bottle banks throughout Fingal and improvement works at the Council’s two recycling centres in Coolmine and Swords. Within the 2018 Budget, a total of €61.1m will be spent on Housing and Building with €42.7m budgeted for Environment and €42.5m for Recreation and Amenity. Road Transportation & Safety will receive €25.8m and Water Services €20.7m while €21.1m has been set aside for Development Incentives and Controls. Contact us: communitylocals@gmail.com

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Local News

November meeting items Throughout the project, residents and businesses will be advised of all works in advance and will be given 48 hours’ notice of any planned water shut offs. Irish Water will host a public drop-in information evening, a business information meeting and a briefing for elected representatives in the coming weeks so that the community is kept fully informed about the project.

Fly-tipping in Swords

Swords Water Gets Upgrade

Irish Water has signed a contract with GMC Utilities Group to replace 5km of ageing water mains in Swords. The 30” concrete water main was laid in 1970 and will be replaced between Cooks Road and Forest Road south of Swords, along Forest Road to the junction with the Dublin Road/Main Street Swords, then along Main Street and North Street and onwards to Lissenhall, ending near the Swords north M1 motorway junction. The €9m in this project will take almost 2 years to complete. Works are expected to commence in the coming months.

Following a query by Cllr. Darragh Butler, the County Council hads confirmed that it is monitoring Balheary and Ennis Lane, Swords, in relation to illegal dumping. It has been agreed that this area will be assessed for suitable locations for covert CCTV in 2018. Where suitable evidence is found, litter fines will be issued and if required prosecutions sought.

Christmas Parking

The County Council has confirmed to Cllr. Darragh Butler that it intends to offer free car parking in Swords in the run up to Christmas. A statement said: “In previous years the free car parking at both Pay and Display locations, and at the Council cark parks in Swords has been very well received. It is intended to offer this facility

again this year, and discussions are currently underway as to the exact dates/times/locations which will be offered.

Donabate Housing Limits

Following a query by Cllr. Adrian Henchy (FF) the County Council has confirmed the upper limit of housing units that can be both built and occupied within both the current local area plan zoned lands and all other residential zonings within Donabate Portane that can be occupied before the proposed Donabate Distributor Road becomes fully operational. Figures from the Council show that 1,000 units can be provided at Turvey, Rahillion, Corballis East & West, Spires East & Ballymastone. In the region of 750 units can be built on lands at Corballis West, Corballis East and Spires East, and prior to any units being sold and occupied on these lands, the Distributor Road linking the Hearse Road to the Balcarrick Road must be operational. The final phased delivery of housing and infrastructure relates to c.2,000 on lands at Corballis East and Ballymastone. Construction cannot begin on these units until the full Distributor Road linking the Hearse Road to the Portrane Road is operational.

Balbriggan Postcards

If you are looking for a special card to send to your loved ones abroad this Christmas you may consider one of the locally produced postcards with images of the Harry Clarke stained-glass windows from Balbriggan’s Church of Sts Peter & Paul. Balbriggan Tourism produced four designs of the windows on postcards which are on sale in the local tourist office on George’s Square. A new addition to local souvenirs is the elegant greetings card with images from the Smyth & Co, travelling salesman’s catalogue of stocking embroidery designs. These designs from the Victorian era, the factory’s heyday, are truly unique and hark back to days when handiwork and craftsmanship were highly prized. Balbriggan was synonymous with high quality hand-woven hosiery with many prominent clients including none other than Queen Victoria. For more information, contact Balbriggan Tourism Office, George’s Square, Balbriggan - tourism@balbrigganchamber.ie

BALBRIGGAN LOCAL-DECEMBER 2017

Local News

Age Friendly Initiative

Fingal County Council has announced the delivery of two services which give elderly people greater access to technology and public transport. As part of the Fingal Age Friendly Initiative being implemented by Fingal County Council, Fingal Leadership Partnership and Blanchardstown Area Partnership, the ‘Computer Home Supports’ programme was launched recently. This programme is the first of its kind in Ireland and its objective is to allow elderly people equal access to the benefits and convenience of the internet and technology. Delivered by the Department of Social Protection under the TÚS Scheme, users are taught by Garda-vetted tutors trained by the Dublin and Dun Laoghaire Education and Training Board how to use computers in their own homes, free of charge. Coinciding with the introduction of this scheme are three new bus routes which service Swords, Ballyboughal, Garristown and the Naul. The three new routes are operated by rural transport provider Flexibus Local Link. Speaking at the launch of Fingal’s Age Friendly Initiative at the Atrium in Fingal County Council’s County Hall in Swords, Mayor of Fingal Cllr Mary McCamley said: “Both the ‘Computer Home Support Service’ and introduction of new Local Link bus routes are extremely valuable to older residents of Fingal. In recent years, using Online Banking, Skype and Email has become second natur efor many of us. The ‘Computer Home Support’ service will allow elderly people to benefit from these convenient online resources. I am confident that the introduction of the Loca lLink bus routes and ‘Computer Home support’ services will allow Fingal’s older residents to stay connected with their communities.” Local Link Co-ordinator Miriam McKenna explained that the routes have been designed to meet the needs of people in rural areas: “These new routes have all been identified to fill specific needs for commuters and bus users in Fingal, and are part of the greater network of LocalLink services. Apart from the three new routes, we are looking to hear from anyone who knows someone they feel could benefit from transport to hospital or health appointments, nursing home visits or social activities such as Men’s Sheds, Active Retirement groups or just going to a matinee in the cinema. The key to Local Link is access. Our users are people who could benefit from a doorto-door transport service, and we are asking people to contact us so we can support them in independent living.” She added that they are seeking help from volunteer drivers for the Local Link community car service and that those interested could enquire by calling 1800 303 707. Meanwhile, CEO of Fingal Leadership Partnership Chris O’Malley highlighted the need for the Computer Homes Support service to increase computer literacy among the elderly: “Computers and smart phones are used widely to keep in touch with loved ones who live far away, access onlineshopping, the health system and other public services. This has made life more convenient for most of us but there is a digital divide that needs to be addressed. If elderly people cannot access the benefits of modern technology, this is a form of social exclusion. The ‘Computer Home Support’ is a free service that will allow our older residents to make the most of online resources in their own homes.” Speaking at the launch, Head of Fingal’s Age Friendly Alliance Nora Owen encouraged older residents to utilise the resources available: “As you get on in life, little things may cause you trouble. But if you raise these issues with Fingal’s Age Friendly alliance, you can have your voice heard and your needs met.” Fingal County Council’s Chief Executive, Paul Reid welcomed both initiatives: “The introduction of new bus routes servicing rural Fingal coinciding with the introduction of the ‘Computer Home Support Service’ is great progress for tackling isolation among the elderly. Many of us rely on public transport and depend on technology for everyday services. If older people in our communities could benefit from accessible transport and be taught how to use online services, there is great potential for improving their independence and quality of life.” Contact us: communitylocals@gmail.com

New Year’s Eve INTIMATE DINING IN THE BRACKEN GRILL RESTAURANT New Year’s Eve brims with the decadent glamour and excitement that surrounds the last night of the year, drawing to a close with the champagne flowing in Jack Doyle’s Bar with DJ Entertainment. The chic surrounding of the Bracken Grill restaurant is the perfect venue in which to enjoy the finest local cuisine and enchanting atmosphere this New Year’s.

Seasonal Punch on arrival from 7pm Festive Five Course Gourmet Menu Live Light Accoustic Music Champagne at Midnight €40 per person

Bridge St., Balbriggan, Co. Dublin T: (01) 841 3333 W: www.brackencourt.ie

BALBRIGGAN LOCAL-DECEMBER 2017

Local News

Balbriggan Chamber of Commerce President’s Lunch

Balbriggan Chamber of Commerce held its Annual President’s lunch at the Bracken Court Hotel, in Balbriggan, recently. Amongst those attending were Mayor of Fingal, Cllr. Mary McCamley, Senator James Reilly, Paul Reid, CEO Fingal County Council, Ed Hearne, Director, Economic Enterprise and Tourism Development, Fingal County Council, Martin O’Donnell, CBRE and many local Councillors. Speaking at the event, Mayor of Fingal, Cllr. Mary McCamley said:

“While Balbriggan has suffered from the decline of its traditional industries, it is turning the corner. I am confident that with the continued energy and drive of the local business community and the commitment of Fingal County Council that Balbriggan’s best days are still ahead.” In his address, Chief Executive of Fingal County Council, Paul Reid said: “Balbriggan is key to Fingal County Council’s plans for the county. The available data highlights the significant changes that the town has experienced in recent years, which brings a number of challenges. We recognise these challenges require a new multi-agency approach and are committed to providing leadership on this, so that Balbriggan becomes a model for integrated and sustainable community development.” Chamber President, Mr John Cumisky of REA Cumisky gave an update of the current activities that the Chamber were involved with, and thanked Fingal County Council for the major support they were giving the Chamber. He expressed a wish, that over the coming years, Balbriggan would become a major tourist destination, especially when Fingal County Council’s work on Bremore Castle was completed. He also thanked Martin O’Donnell, who spoke at the lunch on the subject of Rates, for giving the attendance a good insight on same. A presentation of €5,000 was made at the event by the Moriarty Group to Remember Us, the Balbriggan based charity for people with Special Needs and their families.

Guide Dogs Say Thanks Tom O’Neill, Balbriggan, co-chair of the local branch of guide dogs wants to thank all those who support their work in the community. “In the Balbriggan\North County Dublin Branch of guide dogs are very lucky in the amount of business supporters we have in the area - Monica Tolan Beauticians, Balbriggan, deserve a special mention.” “The other people Irish guide dogs for the blind can’t manage without are puppy walkers. These are the people who take the pups at 6 weeks of age and keep them until they are around a year when they must give them up. These puppies then go for formal training to become a guide dog for a blind person or an assistance dog for a family who have a child with Autism The litters of puppies are named through the alphabet so if you have 10 pups in a litter all the pups names begin with the same letter. Tom O’Neill’s first guide dog was Frank, ‘the F litter’ so Frank’s siblings were Fred, Fota, Faron and Felix Years later when the R letter came along you had Rhona and Rubble. Rhona is puppy walked in Skerries by Barry Kelly, and Rubble in Malahide by Ronan Daly. Thank you lads This time of year the branch has its Christmas Cards and 2018 calendar for sale. 8

BALBRIGGAN LOCAL-DECEMBER 2017

Again local business are coming on board to support us so go along to any of the below and buy some Christmas Cards or a calendar of one of these wonderful supporters of ours. In Balbriggan: Pat Baxter Family Butcher, Clonard Street; Donal Hayes and Associates Chiropodists, Clonard Street; Wishes Gift Shop, Dublin Street; Lissenhall Vets, Dublin Street; Cuddles Pet Store, Millfield S.C; Paws Café at Ardgillan Castle; Lissenhall Vets Swords; Java the Hut, Balbriggan train station. In Skerries: Stacks Pharmacy, Holmpatrick; Skerries Hardware, Thomas Hand Street; Strand Street Pharmacy; McMeels Pharmacy; Skerries Framing, Church Street; Shenick Vets; Lissen Hall Vets. In Rush: Stitches & Alterations; OR Design; Hackett’s Butchers; In Corduff: Irish Rosettes pet store. Brian Fintan of the Dublin Senior Football team and all Ireland winner for 2017 took time out recently to give his support to the sale of the calendar and cards in the Bracken Court Hotel, Balbriggan. He described the calendar and cards as a beautiful present for anybody who had a love for dogs. The pack of 8 cards sell for €6 per pack or two packs for €10. The calendar sells for €8. You can contact the branch on 0857663107 or guidedogsbalbriggan@gmail.com

Tom O’Neill with Gatsby the guide dog, Rhona Tolan & Rhona’s puppy in training

Local News

Over 200 community group representatives gather at Fingal Public Participation Network in Swords

Over 200 community activists representing more than 140 community groups across Fingal attended the Fingal Public Participation Network (PPN) Plenary in the Carnegie Court Hotel, Swords on recently. There were community representatives present from Garristown, Ongar, Howth and Balbriggan, among others. A wide range of groups were involved, including those with a focus on

Arts, Culture, Environment, Festivals, Sports, Residents, Radio, Youth, Health and more. As well as discussing key community issues, a Community Supports Showcase consisting of fourteen exhibits took place. Local service providers in attendance were the Fingal Leader Partnership and Blanchardstown Area Partnership who were joined by voluntary support organisations such as Charity Regulator,

The Wheel. Representatives for community organisations present highlighted the services they provide locally which include funding, training, advice and advocacy. Fingal PPN Secretariat member John Melvin said: “Fingal PPN is growing from strength to strength and is now in its third year of operation. The PPN belongs to the community and is run by the community. Our community membership is growing all the time with the profile and influence of the PPN increasing year upon year.” Maria Tormey, also a Fingal PPN Secretariat member commented: “This is a really exciting time to be active in the community of Fingal. We are currently working on a new 2018 to 2020 Strategic Plan which will help us map our direction going forward and best serve our membership.” Fingal Public Participation Network is a network of more than 500 community, voluntary, social inclusion and environmental organisations in the Fingal County area. The Fingal PPN plays an important role in representing communities in local decision making and policy making structures. Fingal PPN also provides training, networking opportunities and funding information to members. Get in touch at ppn@ fingal.ie or find out more on www.fingalppn.ie. Fingal PPN is co-funded by Fingal County Council and the Department of Rural and Community Development.

Balbriggan Sports Hub Boost Fingal County Council has been awarded €70,333 for the development of a Community Sports and Activity Hub in Balbriggan as part of the National Physical Activity Plan. This grant comes as part of €2.9 million worth of funding for sport and physical activity projects to be distributed nationally across disadvantaged areas through the Dormant Accounts Fund. Minster of State for Tourism and Sport Brendan Griffin TD announced the funding, saying: “The comprehensive programme of initiative support through this funding allocation will give people with disabilities and those from socially, economically and educationally disadvantaged backgrounds the opportunity to take part in sport and physical activity.” The funding will allow for the employment of a Community Sports Development Officer who will be based in Balbriggan and co-ordinate local Sport and Physical activity programmes.

The remainder of the grant will be used to provide sports equipment. Fingal County Council’s Principal Sports Officer Marion Brown welcomed the funding saying: “This grant is hugely valuable to the residents of Balbriggan where we have seen a lack of sporting resources. The employment of a local sports development officer will allow for a comprehensive sports programme to be implemented. This is a fantastic investment in Balbriggan as a community where there are people in need of greater sport outlets and I am confident that the development of a Sports Hub will have huge benefits on residents’ health, well-being and quality of life.” Emphasising the importance of access to sport clubs to communities, Fingal County Council Chief Executive Paul Reid said: “We have seen time and again the value of sports clubs and activity programmes to both individuals and communities as a whole and I am delighted that the residents of Balbriggan

will have the chance to experience these benefits with the presence of a Sports Hub. This will help our efforts at sustainable community development in the town by using sport as a vehicle to enhance community engagement, increase participation and engagement in health promotion and support school completion and the educational attainment of young people.” Mayor of Fingal, Cllr Mary McCamley said she expects that the presence of such a programme in Balbriggan will have similar benefits: “As we see in the SPEAK report, the development of sports infrastructure at local level increases participation from people who may not have ever had an interest in sport. I’m delighted to see in the report that 10,404 female participants took part in 70 local ‘Women in Sport’ programmes. I am sure that the development of a Sports Hub in Balbriggan will create an environment where information and resources are readily available.”

BALBRIGGAN LOCAL-DECEMBER 2017

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Making the difference in the North county

Healt

Home Cook Recipes

Dark Chocolate OrangeTruffles Method

Ingredients

(Makes 20 truffles)

• 30 dates • Juice of 1 orange • 50mls Flaxseed/pumpkin seed oil (High in Omega 3’s!!).Could use coconut oil either. • 60g cocoa • 3 teaspoons ground cloves • 140g Ovaltine chocolate drink powder (fortified with vitamins and minerals)

1. Soak the dates overnight in the orange juice. Then blitz the dates and orange juice together with a blender/food processor. Place in a mixing bowl when the mixture turns into a sticky paste. 2. Add the oil and mix. 3. Add the rest of the ingredients. And mix mix mix!!! 4. Pile the mixture upwards in a container (so that it has quite a lot of depth) and place in the freezer for 1 hour. 5. Remove from the freezer and using a melon ball cutter scoop out round spheres from the mixture. 5. Roll the small spheres using the tips of your fingers only to make defined round balls. 6. Roll the balls in desiccated coconut or cocoa powder for decoration. Enjoy the festivities and keep active this season. But remember the presence of people is a lot more magical than their presents. It’s not what is under the tree that matters but the people who are gathered around it. Until 2018 Merry Christmas to all. See my ‘Fun food’ and ‘Recipes’ albums on ‘Biabites’ Facebook for fun ideas to do over the Christmas holidays and to kick off the New Year with a healthy Biabites BOOM: Niamh Arthurs, Public Health and Clinical Nutritionist BALBRIGGAN LOCAL-DECEMBER 2017

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