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Departmental Press Release

By Waterford City & County Council

Temporary Development Contributions Waiver

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Those seeking to avail of the Government’s Temporary Development Contribution Waiver need to submit the relevant Commencement Notice or 7 Day Notice to the Building Control Management System (BCMS) on or before 17th December 2024 to ensure they meet the scheme deadline. No submissions after the deadline can be accepted.

More information can be found at gov.ie – Circular PL 02/2024 – Extension of the Temporary Development Contribution waiver and Uisce Éireann Water Connection Charge refund arrangements

By Waterford City & County Council

Financial Support to assist businesses in the Hospitality and Retail Sectors

Power Up grant
Power Up grant of €4,000 is available to businesses in the hospitality and retail sectors
Register before Friday 8th November.

Local Authorities are now emailing businesses who may be eligible for the Power Up grant. The email includes details on how to register. Don’t delay with registering, the Power Up registration Portal is open for a limited time in order to get payments to businesses before the end of the year.

Registering is similar to ICOB registration and is quick and easy. Please go to enterprise.gov.ie/powerup for further information.

If you have not received an email and think you may be eligible please contact your Local Authority.

What is the Power Up grant?
The Government announced the Power Up grant as part of Budget 25 for businesses in the Retail and Hospitality sector.  The Power Up grant has a budget of €170 million and the grant to eligible businesses will be €4,000.

Who is eligible for Power Up?
There are two types of qualifying business:

  • A business that received the second payment of ICOB and continues to meet the ICOB criteria
  • Businesses in the hospitality and retail sector that did not have a rates bill in 2023 may qualify if they meet the criteria. Those businesses should check with their local authority to check eligibility once the scheme goes live.

Read full details on the Department of Enterprise, Trade & Employment website.

By Waterford City & County Council

Rethinking Fashion: How to Reverse the Trend for a Greener Future

Reverse the Trend

The Reverse the Trend campaign, spearheaded by the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications, encourages individuals to rethink their fashion consumption habits to combat climate change.

By choosing to buy less, rewear existing clothing, and share with others, this initiative promotes a sustainable approach to fashion. The campaign emphasises the environmental impact of fast fashion and advocates for more circular fashion practices, such as borrowing or swapping clothes.

The fashion industry is estimated to be responsible for 10% of global carbon emissions, however only 31% of Irish people see a link between purchasing textiles and climate change. Recent research from the Environmental Protection Agency found that textiles such as clothing and household textiles make up 9% of waste in the general waste bin.

Simple actions can lead to meaningful changes in reducing waste and protecting the environment. Discover more on how to make sustainable choices here.

By Waterford City & County Council

REMINDER: Information Meeting for Multi-Unit Developments, Apartments & OMCs

OMC event

On Wednesday, October 23rd 2024 the Housing Agency will host a free information meeting for people involved with multi-unit developments (MUDs), apartments, and owners’ management companies (OMCs).

 The Housing Agency is a state body under the aegis of the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage.

The meeting will cover:

  • Challenges faced by OMCs & managed estates
  • Roles and responsibilities
  • Resources available

How to attend – registration required

Attendance places, while free of charge, are limited.  Registration is required.

Please register by clicking The Tower Hotel and Leisure Centre, Waterford City

You can register also by email to MUD@housingagency.ie

Evening Programme

  • 6:45pm    Registration (tea/coffee provided)
  • 7pm          Presentation from The Housing Agency
  • 7:45pm    Q&A
  • 8:30pm   Closes

Information and resources for OMCs and MUDs are available on the Agency’s website.

ENDS

By Waterford City & County Council

Rethinking Fashion: How to Reverse the Trend for a Greener Future

Reverse the Trend fashion campaign

The Reverse the Trend campaign, spearheaded by the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications, encourages individuals to rethink their fashion consumption habits to combat climate change.

By choosing to buy less, rewear existing clothing, and share with others, this initiative promotes a sustainable approach to fashion. The campaign emphasises the environmental impact of fast fashion and advocates for more circular fashion practices, such as borrowing or swapping clothes.

The fashion industry is estimated to be responsible for 10% of global carbon emissions, however only 31% of Irish people see a link between purchasing textiles and climate change. Recent research from the Environmental Protection Agency found that textiles such as clothing and household textiles make up 9% of waste in the general waste bin.

Simple actions can lead to meaningful changes in reducing waste and protecting the environment. Discover more on how to make sustainable choices here.

By Waterford City & County Council

New regulations on XL Bully Dogs to be introduced on October 1st

In July 2024, the Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys TD announced a ban on XL Bully dogs. The Minister announced the ban in the interest of public safety following a number of recent attacks by XL Bully dogs.

From October 1st, 2024, these new regulations will prohibit the importing, breeding, selling and re-homing of XL Bully type dogs and from February 1st, 2025 it will be illegal to own an XL Bully dog without a Certificate of Exemption.

As a cross of restricted breeds, XL Bully type dogs are currently subject to existing additional controls. This means when in a public place, these dogs must be securely muzzled and kept on a strong chain or leash (maximum 2 metres in length) by a person over 16 years of age who is capable of controlling the dog.

All XL Bully dog owners will be able to apply for a Certificate of Exemption between October 1st, 2024 and January 31st, 2025. This certificate will be unique to each XL Bully type dog and owner. It will specify the dog’s licence details, microchip details, neutering details, age and description. It will also specify the dog owner’s name, address, date of birth and contact number.

The following documentation is required before the Certificate of Exemption can be issued:

Copy of Valid Dog Licence: Under the Control of Dogs Act 1986, every dog must be licensed and kept under effective control and must have a collar bearing the owner’s name and address. Failure to do so can result in on-the-spot fines of €100 and further court fines of up to €2,500.  Licences are available from any Post Office or online at www.licences.ie.  Annual licences cost €20 per year, and lifetime licences cost €140 which cover the lifetime of the dog.

Microchipping Certificate: It is a legal requirement in Ireland to have all dogs implanted with a microchip and registered on an approved database by the time they are 12 weeks old.

Owners must take the following steps:

  1. Have your dog microchipped by a registered implanter.
  2. Have your details registered on a Government approved database that has been approved by the Department of Agriculture, Food and Marine
  3. Be in possession of a printed Microchipping Certificate.

Confirmation of neutering: Owners must arrange to have their XL Bully type dog neutered by a registered Veterinary Practitioner in order to receive a Certificate of Exemption. XL Bully dogs must be permanently neutered. Male dogs must be neutered through castration, and female dogs must be spayed. The procedure must be carried out by a registered veterinary surgeon, or they must confirm that it has been previously neutered. 

Photographic proof of identity of owner:  i.e. copy of passport, drivers licence, public services card, etc.

Proof of address of owner: i.e. copy of utility bill or bank statement within previous three months, etc.

From October 1st, 2024 all documentation can be submitted to Waterford City and County Council via the Council website.

To find out more about XL Bully dog regulations visit https://waterfordcouncil.ie/services/environment/dog-control/

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By Waterford City & County Council

Information Meeting for Multi-Unit Developments, Apartments & OMCs

OMC event

On Wednesday, October 23rd 2024 the Housing Agency will host a free information meeting for people involved with multi-unit developments (MUDs), apartments, and owners’ management companies (OMCs).

 The Housing Agency is a state body under the aegis of the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage.

The meeting will cover:

  • Challenges faced by OMCs & managed estates
  • Roles and responsibilities
  • Resources available

How to attend – registration required

Attendance places, while free of charge, are limited.  Registration is required.

Please register by clicking The Tower Hotel and Leisure Centre, Waterford City

You can register also by email to MUD@housingagency.ie

Evening Programme

  • 6:45pm    Registration (tea/coffee provided)
  • 7pm          Presentation from The Housing Agency
  • 7:45pm    Q&A
  • 8:30pm   Closes

Information and resources for OMCs and MUDs are available on the Agency’s website.

ENDS

By Waterford City & County Council

Team Ireland Lifesavers Compete in World Lifesaving Championships

Irish Water SafetyAs the 2024 Lifesaving World Championships kick off on the Gold Coast of Australia, we’re delighted to see some familiar faces representing Ireland on the world stage.
Among the 15 Irish competitors, we’re especially proud to see ex-Waterford City & County Council beach lifeguards, Tom Breen and Odhran Savage making waves on the Senior Men’s team. Their dedication and hard work have brought them from the shores of Waterford to competing against the best lifesavers from over 50 countries.  Waterford is also represented by Luca Power and Jamie Flynn who will compete in the Youth Men’s division.
The Championships, which simulate real-life rescue scenarios, are a true test of the skills and endurance required by lifesavers. It’s wonderful to see these athletes, who started their journey protecting our local beaches, now showcasing their talents internationally. Their participation is a testament to the high standards of training and the strong tradition of lifesaving in Ireland.
Good luck to the Waterford contingent, and all the Irish competitors as they take on this challenge. It is a huge achievement. The lifesaving community back home is cheering you on!
Let’s also not forget the significant role of Irish referees in these championships, with Clare McGrath stepping up as Deputy Chief Referee, further highlighting Ireland’s expertise in this sport.

By Waterford City & County Council

Local Authority Purchase and Renovation Loan now open

Local Authority Purchase and Renovation Loan

The Local Authority Purchase and Renovation Loan (LAPR) has opened (July 22nd 2024), and provides a solution for first-time buyers aiming to purchase and refurbish derelict or non-habitable properties.

This government-backed mortgage is specifically designed for those who qualify for the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant, offering financial support up to €50,000. Additionally, a supplementary top-up grant of €20,000 is available if the refurbishment costs surpass the initial grant amount.  This loan aims to facilitate affordable home ownership and also contributes to the revitalisation of vacant properties, promoting sustainable community development. By enabling buyers to transform neglected properties into habitable homes, the loan ensures more efficient use of housing stock.

Eligibility criteria include meeting the requirements for the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant. Prospective applicants can find detailed information on eligibility and the application process on the Local Authority Purchase and Renovation Loan website.

This financial assistance is ideal for those looking to invest in property, establish a family home, or simply secure a place of their own.  For full details on the application process, eligibility, and additional support, visit the Local Authority Purchase and Renovation Loan website.

By Waterford City & County Council

Waterford City retains title of Cleanest City in Ireland

In the most recent IBAL report, Waterford was classed as Cleaner than European Norms and was ranked 12th out of 40 town and cities surveyed. Ballybeg ranked 11th and was also classed as Cleaner than European Norms. 

The judges report noted that “Again our cleanest city, Waterford City has actually improved on its previously strong showings, with only one heavily littered site, beside Vee Car Park. It was particularly encouraging to see notable improvements at a couple of sites e.g. ‘Bring Facility’ at Tesco Ardkeen (very much deserving of the top litter grade) and the Miscellaneous Woodpecker Site was much improved but clearly requires constant monitoring.

Some sites deserve special mention, particularly with regards to the overall presentation and maintenance of same:  Viking Triangle / Museum Quarter was exceptionally good;  Broad Street / Barronstrand Street was attractively laid out with lovely seating, trees providing coverage for those looking for a place to sit in the shade and very good street furniture;  works continue apace at the beautiful People’s Park – it was excellent with regards to litter;  the residential area of Bowefield / Riverpark was spotless;  substantial works have taken place along Grattan Quay / approach from Greenway – the result is a lovely, welcoming route into the city.”

“Ballybeg has scored exceptionally well this time around – well done to all concerned.  With seven top ranking sites there are some which deserve a mention, particularly the Bring Facility at Tesco Ballybeg as this has regularly been a heavily littered site in previous surveys.  All approach roads presented well.  The residential areas of Ardmore Terrace and Clonard Park were both much better than previous IBAL surveys – this time around they just missed the top litter grade.”

Areas such as the People’s Park, Viking Triangle and the approach from the Greenway were regarded as excellent sites, were well presented and maintained, and a complete absence of litter was noted throughout.

Fergus Galvin, Director of Services with Waterford City and County Council said that Waterford’s achievement as Ireland’s Only Clean City was a great accolade for the city and one that has been achieved by the hard work of the community and staff alike.

“There has been great investment from local schools, voluntary committees and business communities and that commitment has resulted in Waterford topping the cleanest city table.”

“Environmental awareness initiatives such as the Anti-litter challenge for secondary schools, Tackling Single Use Plastics, Picker Pals, and the Gum Litter Task force have paid dividends, by not only helping keep public realm spaces spotless, but also instilling younger generations with a sense of pride in our place.”

The IBAL report noted that there was a near-30% fall in the prevalence of can-related litter since the previous survey. While plastic bottles were also less common than in any past survey, they remain the third most prevalent form of litter on our streets. “It’s early days and we’re still seeing too many plastic bottles on our streets, but we can expect further improvement as people become accustomed to the Deposit Return Scheme and the legacy non-returnable items are flushed out of the system. Ultimately, we should see can and plastic bottle litter disappear entirely”, says IBAL’s Conor Horgan.

–ENDS–

By Waterford City & County Council

LEP 2024 Women’s Groups Fund announced

  • Funding to benefit Women’s Sheds, Sports Clubs, ICA Groups, Toddler Groups, Girls Guides and much more.
  • Small grants to assist groups in every county with their capital costs.

The Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys TD, has today announced funding to support almost 500 Women’s Groups nationwide.

There are 25 successful projects from Waterford.  See here for a list.

Under the initiative, small grants are being provided to assist groups in every single county to enhance/improve their facilities and to purchase equipment. The groups that are receiving funding include Women’s and Hen’s Sheds, Camogie and GAA Clubs, ICA Groups, Toddler Groups, Girl Guides and more. Minister Humphreys made the announcement during a visit to the Trim Women’s Shed in County Meath. The group was allocated €2,500 today under the initiative.

Speaking in Trim, Minister Humphreys said:

“I am delighted to announce the successful projects today for Women’s Sheds, Groups and Networks throughout the country. These groups are working tirelessly within communities to provide both young and old with an outlet to socialise, upskill, relax and so much more. I am constantly amazed by the work, community spirit and ethos of the many, many groups that give so much of their time to enhance and improve their communities. I want you to know that I see what you do and I hope that through these grants my Department can help.”

Some examples of the Women’s Groups and projects funded from this ring-fenced funding are as follows:

  • Ballysaggart Ladies Football Club, Lismore Co. Waterford: €4,147.98
  • Waterford New Community Women’s Shed €2,925
  • Erin’s Own Ladies Gaelic Football Club €2,000
  • The Carbally Women’s Shed Group €2,000

Minister Humphreys added:

“The grants today may be small in value but to the successful groups they are invaluable – they can open up so many possibilities for so many people. I will continue to engage with the communities of Ireland to see how my Department can continue to support you going forward. I would encourage all groups out there to check here and see if you too can benefit from some of my Department’s programmes.”

The funding is being delivered as part of The Local Enhancement Programme 2024.

This programme allocated €6 million in capital supports for community groups and organisations around Ireland, with funding of €1 million being ring-fenced for women’s groups.

Information garnered from distributing these supports will help the Department to get a better idea of the spread of Women’s Sheds, Groups and Networks across the country. This will inform the Department on how to best support these groups in the future.

This funding adds to the €100,000 which was ring-fenced for Women’s Sheds under the Community Enhancement Programme 2022. The full list of groups receiving funding is available here.

ENDS

By Waterford City & County Council

Minister Humphreys announces €926,515 Outdoor Recreation Funding Boost for Waterford

Dunmore East Coastal walk

Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys TD, has today announced €16.1 million nationally to support 69 Outdoor Recreation projects. Under the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS) 2023 funding of €926,515 has been announced for four projects in County Waterford giving a further boost to outdoor recreation and local communities in the county.

The implementation of the ORIS scheme is aligned with the objectives of ‘Embracing Ireland’s Outdoors – National Outdoor Recreation Strategy 2023 to 2027’.  Projects funded under the ORIS scheme are delivered by Local Authorities and other key stakeholders.  Waterford City and County Council will deliver the latest four projects being funded by this announcement in collaboration with local communities as well as other state agencies and partners.

ORIS provides funding for the development of new outdoor recreational infrastructure.  It also provides support for the necessary repair, maintenance, enhancement or promotion of existing outdoor recreational infrastructure in rural areas across Ireland.  The scheme supports outdoor recreation activities such as walking, trekking, cycling, kayaking and hiking.  It helps to make use of the resources of the countryside that contribute to healthy active lifestyles, and it supports the economic and tourism potential of the area for both local communities and tourist visitors alike.

Today’s announcement by Minister Humphreys sees funding being allocated under ORIS Measures 2 and 3 for the following projects:

  • Crough Wood Walk – Embankment stabilization project: €175,505 in ORIS funding
  • Dunmore East Coastal Walk – Upgrade of Steps at Portally Cove: €108,000 in ORIS funding
  • Benvoy Beach – Upgrade of existing access to beach: €143,010 in ORIS funding
  • Ardmore Beach – Development of 870m walkway at Ardmore Beach: €500,000 in ORIS funding.

Welcoming today’s announcement Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. Joe Conway has said, “It is wonderful to welcome today’s funding announcement under the ORIS scheme. This funding will go towards developing and enhancing some of our favourite trails right across county Waterford.  The timing of this announcement couldn’t be more fitting as it gives another boost to our outdoor recreation network right at the start of the summer season.  Waterford is very grateful of the support that it has received in recent years from the Department of Rural and Community Development in support of our key outdoor recreation amenities and other rural projects.

“I would also like to thank staff of Waterford City and County Council and, in particular, the Rural Economic Development team which works hard to continually submit quality funding applications under this and other schemes in conjunction with our communities and other stakeholders.”

This latest announcement comes after an allocation of €100,000 under the ORIS Project Development Measure in January and a further €133,857 announced in April to fund six smaller scale outdoor recreation projects here in Waterford.  The recognition of Waterford’s potential as an important outdoor recreation location by central government was further indicated last December when Waterford was selected to be one of just six counties to be part of a pilot scheme which will see the preparation of a County Outdoor Recreation Plan, a process which is currently ongoing.

For further information on Waterford’s fantastic walking, cycling and outdoor recreation opportunities visit www.visitwaterfordtrails.com and get out and active this summer!

-ends-

 Image (Karen Dempsey)

Dunmore East Coastal Walk which has received funding under the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme in order to upgrade steps at Portally Cove as part of the continuing improvement of this walking trail.

By Waterford City & County Council

Water Safety : Alert Minimize the risks with advice from Coast Guard, Water Safety Ireland & RNLI

water safety irelandThe Coast Guard, Water Safety Ireland & the RNLI have issued advice to help keep people safe at Ireland’s waterways over the June bank holiday weekend.
Water based activities increase at this time of year, as do the number of incidents in which people get into difficulty. Minimize the risks with the following advice for a safe enjoyable bank holiday weekend.

How to enjoy water-based activities safely:

  • Check the forecast for your local area, including tide times and sea conditions for coastal activities.
  • Always carry a means of calling for help and keep it within reach.
  • Water temperatures are still cold. Acclimatise by getting in slowly, swim within your depth and avoid staying in the water for extended periods. Swimmers should be aware of rip currents and if caught in one should swim parallel to shore and then back to land.
  • Swim with others, never alone, in recognised, traditionally safe bathing areas. Lifeguarded waterways are listed at https://watersafety.ie/lifeguards/.
  • Supervise children at all times near water and never use inflatable toys in open water as currents and breezes can cause persons to be swept out to sea, endangering those onboard or others trying to assist.
  • If you find yourself struggling in the water unexpectedly remember Float to Live. The best way to float is to tilt your head back with your ears submerged. Try to relax and breathe normally. You can gently move your hands to help you stay afloat if you need to. Spread your arms and legs out to improve stability. Once your breathing is under control, call for help or swim to safety.
  • Stranding is a risk when low tides expose areas of the coastline for walkers to explore sandbanks. Watch out for incoming tides, local signage, and always carry a fully charged mobile phone.
  • Wear a Personal Flotation Device when paddleboarding, kayaking or boating, or when angling from shore.
  • Avoid alcohol as it impairs judgment, balance and coordination – all essential for swimming and boating and avoiding hazards in the water.

If you see somebody in trouble on the water or along the coast or if you suspect that they are in trouble, dial 112 or use Marine VHF channel 16 and ask for the Coast Guard.

Ends

Media Enquiries to:
Water Safety Ireland, The Long Walk, Galway. info@watersafety.ie / www.watersafety.ie; Tel: 091-564400
Joanne Walsh 087-199.0339 / joannewalsh@watersafety.ie
Padraig Judge 087-459.0156 / padraigjudge@watersafety.ie

By Waterford City & County Council

Ministers Humphreys and Joe O’Brien announce Waterford funding under Local Enhancement Programme 2024 General (Main) Fund strand

Dept. of Rural and Community Development logoMinisters Humphreys and Joe O’Brien announce €153,405.16 for 164 projects in Co Waterford under the Local Enhancement Programme 2024 General (Main) Fund strand.

  • Small grants to benefit community groups across Waterford.
  • Supporting community groups a key focus of ‘Our Rural Future’.

Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys TD, and Minister of State with responsibility for Community Development and Charities, Joe O’Brien TD, have today announced the successful projects in Co. Waterford under the Local Enhancement Programme (LEP) 2024.

The Local Enhancement Programme 2024 was launched in December 2023 with funding of €6 million available, which included €1 million in funding ring-fenced specifically to support Women’s Groups. The funding will provide capital supports essential for the many small community groups and organisations, particularly those who serve disadvantaged areas in rural and urban areas.

The Department of Rural and Community Development’s Local Enhancement Programme 2024 is administered by Local Community Development Committees, with support from the Local Authority, in each area.

Announcing the successful projects for Co. Waterford today, Minister Humphreys said:

“The Local Enhancement Programme is about giving a helping hand to our local groups and clubs, who are the building blocks of Irish community life. I want to congratulate the successful applicants and to thank them for the vital work they do in providing services in their local communities. These grants will help thousands of community organisations, clubs, men’s and women’s sheds, youth centres and parish halls, to continue to provide their valuable services to the people in their areas.”

Minister Humphreys added:

“Supporting local communities to shape their future is a key focus of the Government’s rural development policy, ‘Our Rural Future’. The funding I am announcing today will ensure that important work can continue to be delivered by communities on the ground and I’m delighted that every single county will benefit. I would like to thank Waterford County Council and Local Community Development Committee for their assistance in administering this fund.”

Also announcing the successful projects today, Minister Joe O’Brien said:

“The Local Enhancement Programme 2024 provides vital support to community groups in order to help them improve their facilities. It supports small-scale funding for projects which range from purchasing IT equipment to minor renovations to buildings. Ultimately the Programme responds to local needs. These investments allow community groups to carry out the invaluable work they do on behalf of others in local areas throughout the country. The impact of the Local Enhancement Programme is considerable.”

Waterford City and County Council will be in contact with recipients of the LEP 2024 General Fund in the coming weeks. Also, recipients of the Women’s Groups Fund strand will be announced in due course.’

ENDS

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