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Departmental Press Release

By Waterford City & County Council

Community and inclusion prioritised by Government as it extends Creative Ireland for another five years

  • Creative Ireland Programme will continue until 2027
  • Over 7,500 creative initiatives completed to date
  • Over 100,000 young people now participate in Cruinniú na nÓg
  • New initiatives in Creative Industries, Creative Health and Wellbeing, Climate Action and Social Sustainability to be delivered
  • New Shared Island element to be introduced

Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media, Catherine Martin T.D. has welcomed the Government’s support for her proposal to extend the Creative Ireland Programme to 2027. Along with established programmes of work in Creative Communities and Creative Youth, new priorities will be pursued in the Creative Industries, Creative Health and Wellbeing and Climate Action and Social Sustainability. The Programme will also develop a major Shared Island dimension with support from the Department of the Taoiseach. This extension was approved by Government this week.

In 2017 the Creative Ireland Programme launched as an all-of-Government culture and wellbeing initiative committed to the vision that every person in Ireland should have the opportunity to realise their full creative potential.

Since then thousands of opportunities have been created to unlock an ecosystem of creativity. This was achieved by building strong partnerships between central and local Government, artists and the wider creative community and most of all the communities in which the projects were delivered.

Minister Catherine Martin said:

“My Department will continue its work with partners across central and local Government, through the Creative Ireland Programme, to deploy the power of creativity in support of wellbeing in every community.  While I was keen for Creative Ireland to retain its priorities around young people, local communities and opportunities for the most disadvantaged, I am delighted Government has agreed to place a greater focus on health and wellbeing, our creative industries, climate action, and social sustainability.  I am particularly keen that, through this programme, we enhance the opportunities for the most disadvantaged to engage with creativity.”

Through Creative Ireland, the Government emphasised the supporting role of culture and creativity across policies in education, health and wellbeing, innovation, international relations, sustainable local development and increased support for the creative industries.

In five years the Creative Ireland Programme has emerged as a positive framework for change. Over 7,500 community-led creative initiatives nationwide have promoted participation, inclusion and cultural expression. These include initiatives such as Cruinniú na nÓg, which provides thousands of Irish children with the opportunity to express themselves creatively.

Creative Ireland has led in policy development by supporting conferences where new ideas around the role of creativity in education and young people’s lives, the role of culture in our health care system, and the role of service design across the public service were discussed.

Programme highlights include:

Cruinniú na Óg launched in 2017. It is now a key event in the cultural life of Ireland’s young people and is the only event of its kind in the world. In 2022 over 101,000 young people participated in 1,690 free cultural events led by more than 1,200 creative practitioners. These events provided young people with the opportunity to try something new and demonstrate their own creative abilities.

Creative Climate Action. This unique initiative pulls together the skills and expertise of the creative community, climate activists, NGOs, academics, local government organisations and communities to create projects that will raise awareness and change the behaviours that have helped exacerbate the climate crisis. The second Creative Climate Action fund has just been launched with financial support from the Department of Environment, Climate and Communications and the Department of the Taoiseach.

In response to the isolation caused by the lockdown in 2020, the Creative Ireland Programme worked with the Mobile Music Machine to bring the joy and energy of live music to care homes and hospital settings around the country. Travelling continually throughout the crisis, the Mobile Music Machine delivered over 1650 concerts by more than 100 musicians in nursing and care homes in 23 counties.

In 2022 the programme piloted six creative Shared Island projects to harness the power of cultural creativity to bring communities together and to strengthen our sense of shared identity. Government is now fully committed to the project with a projected spend of €6 million over three years.

The Creative Ireland Programme led by the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media is designed to promote creativity as a strategy for wellbeing, social cohesion and economic success. Its core proposition is that participation in cultural and creative activity promotes individual, community and national wellbeing. The Department strives through Creative Ireland to promote understanding and appreciation of the value of creativity in all its forms and embed creativity across public policy.

ENDS 

By Waterford City & County Council

New roadside drug testing system launched at Christmas and New Year road safety appeal

  • New drug driving testing system (Securetec® Drugwipe 6s) more portable, quicker and tests for more drugs
  • Gardaí launch six week Christmas road safety enforcement campaign
  • 86 fatalities and 765* serious injuries in Christmas / New Year period over last five years/ last year
  • 146 road deaths in 2022 – 146 empty seats at the table on Christmas Day, up 27 on last year

road-safety-authority-logo

 A new preliminary roadside drug driving testing device, which can test for a greater range of drugs at the roadside was launched today at the Road Safety Authority (RSA) and An Gardai Síochána Christmas and New Year road safety appeal. The launch took place in University College Cork.

The new Securetec® Drugwipe 6s roadside drug testing device, which has been introduced by the Medical Bureau of Road Safety (MBRS) and rolled out to Gardaí across the country, works like an antigen test. It is more portable, faster at delivering results and can not only test for Cannabis, Cocaine, Benzodiazepines and Opiates, this device can, unlike its predecessor, test for Amphetamine and Methamphetamine.

The new preliminary drug testing device will be operational from today Thursday 1 December by An Garda Síochána, who have announced an intensive six-week road safety enforcement campaign across the country to Christmas and New Year.

For An Garda Síochána, one primary goal will be to reduce the number of people driving while under the influence of alcohol and illegal drugs, but they will be also targeting other road traffic offences such as mobile phone use, speeding and non-wearing of seatbelts.

Research by the RSA and An Garda Síochána revealed that over the last five years there were 86* fatalities and 765* serious injuries over the Christmas and New Year period.

Minister of State at the Department of Transport, Hildegarde Naughton said: “I welcome the introduction of this new drug testing device which is a key action to be delivered under Ireland’s Road Safety Strategy (Action 163) by the end of 2022. We know that the majority of drivers don’t drive under the influence of drugs but there are still some who persist in this dangerous behaviour. As we come into the festive season, remember that drugs and alcohol and driving do not mix under any circumstance. I’d like to remind drivers that all drink or drug driving penalties carry a disqualification period.”

Assistant Commissioner Paula Hilman said “I am pleased to be here today to launch An Garda Síochána’s Christmas and New Year’s road safety campaign which will run from today until 3rd January 2023. This information-led campaign will focus on locations and times where fatal and serious injury collisions have occurred over the last 12 years.

One of our primary goals is to reduce the number of people driving while under the influence of alcohol and illegal drugs. Today also marks the introduction of a new piece of equipment which will increase our capability to test drivers for the presence of illegal drugs. The DrugWipe 6S is now in use by Gardaí and the streamlined testing process will assist us in our goals of bringing offenders before the courts and making our roads a safer place.

The Assistant Commissioner added that “this year has seen 146 fatalities on our roads which is 146 empty seats at the table on Christmas Day. We all agree that number is far too high and we must work together to keep each other safe. In December 2021, 19 people died in road collisions, our thoughts and prayers are with their friends and family.

Professor Denis Cusack, Director of the Medical Bureau of Road Safety (MBRS), said: “Combinations of drugs and of drugs and alcohol can have a very serious effect on a person’s safe driving ability which may result in serious injuries or death. We need to address this combined alcohol-and-drugs-driving danger whilst also ensuring drivers continue taking prescribed medications for safe and healthy driving. This enhanced roadside drug testing system, which is to be used from today by An Garda Síóchána is extremely timely as we see a continued increase in drug detection in drivers. In 2016, the MBRS tested 1,113 samples for drugs other than alcohol. By 2021, that figure has increased to 4,321 – a near four-fold increase. While alcohol still remains the most frequently detected intoxicant in driving in Ireland, cannabis is the second most frequently found intoxicant and its detection in drivers is continuing to increase, with cocaine being the third most commonly found intoxicant drug detected.”

Professor Cusack added, “This newly introduced drug testing system (not unlike the Covid antigen test method) can test for Cannabis, Cocaine, Benzodiazepines, Opiates, and in addition Amphetamine and Methamphetamine, at the roadside. The advantages of the new system are that oral fluid collection is very rapid, the test time is reduced to 2-8 minutes, and the device is easily transported with no other device being required to read the drug results. This enhanced roadside drug testing system to be used by the Gardaí is timely as drug use in Irish society continues to increase and diversify which also translates into more dangerous intoxicated driving.”

Mr. Sam Waide, CEO, Road Safety Authority said: “I am urging all road users to act responsibly and to not drink or drug drive when using the roads throughout the Christmas and New Year period. Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs doesn’t happen by accident, it happens by choice – those choices could have catastrophic consequences. I would appeal to all road users not to take risks on the road and to make safer choices however you use the road. Slow down, don’t drink or drug drive, wear your seatbelt and watch out for cyclists, pedestrians, motorcyclists and horse riders this festive season.”

Mr. Waide added, “if you are planning to head out socialising, remember to plan how you are going to get home in advance. Designate a driver or organise a taxi, hackney, minibus, or public transport. Be aware too of the danger of drink driving the morning after.”

Drivers are being reminded that the Coca Cola Designated driver campaign is running again this year. The scheme offers free soft drinks and water to anyone acting as a designated driver on a night out with friends or family.

146 people have died on the roads to date in 2022 – this represents an increase of 27 on the same day last year. Separately, 1,174 people were seriously injured on our roads this year up to 27 November 2022.

By Waterford City & County Council

Minister Humphreys announces €640,000 Outdoor Recreation Funding Boost for Waterford

The Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys, recently launched Embracing Ireland’s Outdoors, an ambitious and transformational National Outdoor Recreation Strategy.

Embracing Ireland’s Outdoors was developed in partnership with Comhairle na Tuaithe and is a collaborative cross-government strategy that reflects the views of stakeholders and the public.  The new strategy will set the stage to strengthen and support the sustainable development of the outdoor recreation sector in Ireland for years to come bringing huge economic and health benefits to communities across the country.

Locally, ‘Embracing Ireland’s Outdoors’ will see the establishment of county structures including County Outdoor Recreation Committees and County Stakeholder Forums which will bring all the key stakeholders together. It will also support the development of County Outdoor Recreation Plans identifying the amenities that are in the County and the gaps, as well as agreeing the key priorities for the county to create a more strategic approach and ensure value for money.

Building on this ground-up, locally led approach, the Minister also announced €14 million for the development of 59 outdoor recreation amenities and to support outdoor pursuits such as hiking, mountaineering, kayaking, and cycling.

Two such successful projects are located in Waterford and are based on funding applications submitted by Waterford City and County Council during 2022.

Cappoquin received a further funding boost to follow up on the recently announced RRDF funding of over €5 million. Under this current round of Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS) funding, €500,000 was allocated to Phase I of the development of Cappoquin Railway Bridge Loop Walk.

The scope of this current phase, which is subject to planning approval by An Bord Pleanála is the development of a waterfront section between Millwheel Park and Cappoquin Rowing Club Grounds. The ultimate goal of this and subsequent phases will be the development of the entire 1km looped walking route which will develop the iconic Cappoquin Railway Viaduct, the Old Red Bridge as an integral part of the trail, in a future phase.

The ever-popular Anne Valley Walk has also received a funding boost of €142,424 in order to raise a 900-metre section of the trail which has been prone to flooding and meant that temporary closure of this section of the walk was necessary from time to time, during winter weather events. The Anne Valley Walk is a simply wonderful example of an amenity developed through the generosity and civic pride of local landowners and the wider community. The walk is fully accessible to those with reduced mobility including buggies, wheelchairs etc.

The route which winds its way through the scenic Anne Valley wetland and woodland area, connecting Dunhill with the seaside village of Annestown, is brought to life with information on the flora and fauna, as well as picnic and seating areas to relax and enjoy your surroundings.

Welcoming this latest ORIS funding announcement, Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. John O’Leary said that “Waterford City and County Council is looking forward to working with all stakeholders with regard to these two exciting projects over the coming months and years.  The Anne Valley Walk is already one of Waterford’s most popular recreational trails, while the development of the Cappoquin Railway Loop Walk project has the potential to be equally as important an amenity in the west of the county”.

Cllr. O’Leary went onto congratulate the staff of the Rural Economic Development section of Waterford City and County Council and the communities involved in drafting and submitting the successful funding applications.

-ENDS-

By Waterford City & County Council

Ciste Chroí Cónaithe (Bailte) leathnaithe chuig cathracha agus ceantair thuaithe

Beidh deontas suas go dtí €30,000 ar a mhéad ar fáil chun réadmhaoine folmha a athchóiriú le cónaí iontu mar an phríomháit chónaithe phríobháideach, lena n-áirítear áit chónaithe a dhéanamh as réadmhaoin nach raibh in úsáid roimhe seo mar áit chónaithe. Beidh seo faoi réir uasteorainneacha do na cineálacha oibre atá sonraithe thíos ag féachaint do mheasúnú costais réasúnta a bheith déanta ag an údarás áitiúil. Tá costas CBL na hoibre san áireamh sa deontas.

Nuair a mheastar go sáróidh na costais athchóirithe an gnáthdheontas suas le €30,000, beidh suim deontais bhreise suas le €20,000 ar a mhéad ar fáil nuair a bheidh sé deimhnithe ag an iarratasóir go bhfuil an réadmhaoin folamh (i.e. contúirteach agus dainséarach ó thaobh struchtúir de) agus dá réir is suas le €50,000 ar a mhéad an deontas a bheidh ar fáil do réadmhaoin thréigthe. I gcás deontas breise maidir le réadmhaoin thréigthe, beidh tuairisc neamhspleách arna hullmhú ag gairmí atá cáilithe go cuí (e.g. suirbhéir cainníochta, innealtóir agus mar sin de) ag teastáil le cur ar aghaidh in éineacht leis an iarratas ina ndeimhneofar go bhfuil an réadmhaoin tréigthe (i.e. contúirteach agus dainséarach ó thaobh struchtúir de).

Beidh ar dhaoine atá ag cur isteach ar an deontas a dheimhniú ar an bhfoirm iarratais cibé an ag déanamh iarratais ar an deontas athchóirithe réadmhaoine foilmhe agus sin amháin atá siad nó an ag déanamh iarratais ar an deontas athchóirithe réadmhaoine foilmhe lena n-áirítear an deontas breise réadmhaoine foilmhe atá siad.

Ní mór réadmhaoine a bheidh le breithniú chun a áireamh a bheith folamh le dhá bhliain nó níos faide agus gur roimh 1993 a tógadh iad. Chun críocha na scéime seo, meastar réadmhaoin a bheith folamh más rud é go bhfuil sí folamh agus gan chónaí le tréimhse dhá bhliain nó níos faide. Is féidir deimhniú folúis a bhailíochtú agus a dhearbhú trí úsáid a bhaint as, mar shampla, Billí Fóntais a chuideoidh tréimhsí folúis a dhéanamh amach (e.g. patrúin úsáide nó dícheangal) nó cruthúnais eile den chineál sin a bheadh ar fáil a shásódh an t-údarás áitiúil. Ní mór deimhniú folúis a bheith bailíochtaithe agus dearbhaithe ag an údarás áitiúil sula gceadaítear deontas.

D’fhéadfadh Deontas faoi Scéim Tí Fuinnimh Níos Fearr ón SEAI a bheith ar fáil in éineacht leis an deontas seo. Ní chlúdófar dá réir obair a bheidh clúdaithe ag Scéim Tí Fuinnimh Níos Fearr ón SEAI. Ní mór don údarás áitiúil a dheimhniú dó féin nach bhfuil éileamh déanta faoi aon dheontas eile i leith na hoibre beartaithe.

Beidh cruthúnas ar fholús agus úinéireacht ag teastáil chun tacú leis an íocaíocht deontais. I dtéarmaí úinéireachta, is faoin iarratasóir a bheidh sé úinéireacht a dheimhniú leis an údarás áitiúil.

Féadfaidh údarás áitiúil ceadú i bprionsabal a thabhairt d’iarratas deontais sa chás go bhfuil an t-iarratasóir ábalta fianaise ar idirphlé gníomhach atá ar bun i dtaobh réadmhaoin a cheannach a chur ar fáil i.e. deimhniú comhaontaithe ón ngníomhaireacht eastáit nó ó úinéir na réadmhaoine nuair a chuireann an t-úinéir cruthúnas dá leithéid ar fáil i dtaobh an réadmhaoin a bheith folamh mar a éilítear faoin scéim thar ceann an iarratasóra. Ní dhéanfar ceadú i bprionsabal den chineál sin a dheimhniú ina cheadú iomlán go dtí go mbeidh úinéireacht aistrithe chuig an iarratasóir agus ní bheidh cead aon airgead a tharraingt anuas go dtí go mbeidh an úinéireacht sin deimhnithe go sásúil ag an údarás áitiúil.

Tá tuilleadh eolais ar fáil in achoimre na scéime, foirm iarratais agus na Ceisteanna a Chuirtear go Minic bainteacha. Déan teagmháil leis an Oifigeach do Réadmhaoin Fholamh i d’údarás áitiúil chun tuilleadh eolais a fháil.

By Waterford City & County Council

Croí Cónaithe (Towns) Fund extended to cities and rural areas

Croí Cónaithe (Towns) Fund-extended to cities and rural areas

It was announced by the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Darragh O’Brien T.D. that the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant was extended to eligible vacant properties in both cities and rural areas to ensure the existing housing stock is being used to the fullest extent possible.

A grant of up to a maximum of €30,000 is  available for the refurbishment of vacant properties for occupation as a principal private residence, including the conversion of a property which has not been used as residential heretofore. This is  subject to upper limits for the types of work specified below having regard to a reasonable cost assessment by the local authority.

All queries in relation to the scheme to be sent to: vacanthomes@waterfordcouncil.ie

Where the refurbishment costs are expected to exceed the standard grant of up to €30,000, a maximum top-up grant amount of up to €20,000 will be available where the property is confirmed by the applicant to be derelict (i.e. structurally unsound and dangerous) bringing the total grant available for a derelict property up to a maximum of €50,000. In the case of a top-up grant in respect of a derelict property, an independent report prepared by an appropriately qualified professional (e.g. quantity surveyor, engineer etc.) is required to be submitted along with the application confirming that the property is derelict (i.e. structurally unsound and dangerous).

Those applying for the grant will be required to indicate on the application form to confirm if they are applying for the vacant property refurbishment grant alone or the vacant property refurbishment grant including the derelict property top-up grant.

Properties considered for inclusion must be vacant for two years or more and built before 1993. For the purposes of this scheme, a property is deemed to be vacant if it has been vacant and unoccupied for a period of two years or more. Confirmation of vacancy can be validated and verified by the use of, for example, Utility Bills which can help determine vacancy periods (e.g. pattern of usage or disconnection) or such other proofs as are available to the satisfaction of the local authority. Confirmation of vacancy must be validated and verified by the local authority prior to grant approval.

An SEAI Better Energy Home Scheme Grant may be available in combination with this grant. Works covered by SEAI Better Energy Homes Scheme will therefore not be covered. The local authority must satisfy themselves that proposed works are not claimed for under any other grant.

Proof of both vacancy and ownership will be required to support the grant payment. In terms of ownership, it is a matter for the applicant to confirm ownership with the local authority.

By Waterford City & County Council

Improvements to voter registration process launched as new Check the Register campaign begins


  • Registering to vote now possible online, year-round
  • 16 and 17 year olds can now pre-register online
  • Public encouraged to confirm and update their details online

The Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage Darragh O’Brien T.D. and Minister of State for Heritage and Electoral Reform, Malcolm Noonan, T.D. together encouraged the public to confirm and update their details on the electoral register or to register for the first time using a newly upgraded www.checktheregister.ie. Their comments come as a campaign launched today (7 November) to raise public awareness of changes to the electoral registration process.

Several improvements have been made to the process of registering to vote and updating registration details, arising from provisions in Part 3 of the Electoral Reform Act 2022, which were commenced on 13 October.

In addition to making the process more accessible, the changes to how the register is managed and maintained will ensure a robust electoral register into the future.  All electors are now being asked to visit www.checktheregister.ie to confirm or update their entry by adding their PPSN, Date of Birth and Eircode.  This will help local authorities to ensure that entries are accurate and up to date as well as enabling the identification of entries on the register that require follow up.

The core changes to the electoral registration process include:

  • A move from fixed periods for updating details to rolling updates: previously people could only update their details in November or via the supplement which required a visit to a Garda station. Under the changes announced today, continuous or rolling registration will allow updates or additions at any time of year;
  • Streamlining of the application process through use of PPSNs: The use of PPSNs will enable a simple identity data cross-check to protect and improve the integrity of the register, while streamlining the process for electors. This will mean that most people won’t have to visit a Garda station to have their forms witnessed;
  • Registering to vote for the first time will now be possible online: PPSNs also enable online applications – for the first time people can register to vote or update their details online at any time;
  • 16 and 17 year olds will be able to pre-register to vote: The introduction of a pending electors list to enable those 16 and 17 to pre-register and be automatically added to the register from when they turn 18.
  • New provisions to make the register more accessible to all: The new process includes measures to facilitate electors whose safety might be at risk if their details were to be published on the register and those who have no address.

Minister Noonan said:

“I am particularly pleased that we have introduced pre-registration for 16 and 17 year olds.  Taken together, these changes give us a more accessible, flexible and modern system that’s simple and straightforward to use. It has never been easier for people to register to vote or update their details, so that’s what we’re encouraging everyone to do today.”

The Electoral Reform Act 2022 delivers the legislative underpinning for a range of significant electoral reforms set out in the Programme for Government – Our Shared Future.   The Act provides for, among other things, the establishment of an independent Electoral Commission – An Coimisiún Toghcháin, the modernisation of the electoral registration process, and the regulation of online political advertising.

Commenced on 13 October in S.I. No. 512 of 2022 were the provisions necessary for:

  • the recruitment of the Chief Executive and ordinary membership of An Coimisiún Toghcháin;
  • the introduction of the new process in relation to electoral registration;
  • providing for island voting to take place on the same day as the rest of the country; and
  • the introduction of new processes to facilitate polling in pandemic situations.

Furthermore, existing flexible voting arrangements are being extended to those with mental health difficulties that prevent them from attending on polling day and those who live in nursing homes or similar places that may be inaccessible on polling day.

Welcoming the first phase of commencements of the Act, Minister O’Brien said:

“This first phase of commencement of the Electoral Reform Act and the launch of this awareness campaign represents another step in delivering on significant electoral reforms, and will help to ensure that our democracy is supported by robust electoral structures including a more accurate electoral register”.

Once An Coimisiún Toghcháin is established it will also have a new oversight role with respect to the register of electors. “An annual reporting cycle, with An Coimisiún empowered to make recommendations and set standards, will deliver a balance between local authority experience and local knowledge and national level oversight” said Minister Noonan.

A further phase of the project will see the development and roll out of a national system for use by all local authorities.  This will further enhance the integrity of the register and ensure that a single high standard of security and data protection is applied to the electoral register and its underlying data.

Minister O’Brien emphasised that: “This is one further step in the work to safeguard our electoral processes. Every vote is important, and I encourage everyone to confirm or update their details on www.checktheregister.ie to make sure that they can have their say”.

ENDS

By Waterford City & County Council

Fines for 16 road safety offences to double from October 27

Minister Naughton Announces fines for 16 road safety offences to double from October 27

Fine for speeding to double to €160. Fines for non-wearing of seatbelts and mobile phone use to double to €120

  • Fines for Learner drivers found driving unaccompanied to double to €180. Fines for non-display of ‘L’ and ‘N’ plates to double to €120
  • Three new Fixed Charge Offences will be introduced in new year
  • Tackling speeding the theme of Road Safety Authority Annual Conference

26 October 2022: Minister of State at the Department of Transport, Ms. Hildegarde Naughton announced that the fines relating to 16 road safety offences will double on 27 October, 2022. Minister Naughton made the announcement at the Road Safety Authority’s Annual Conference in Croke Park today. The theme of the conference is Tackling Speeding – Risk Factors and Interventions.

From the 27 October some of the fines that are doubling include speeding (from €80 to €160), mobile phone use (€60 to €120), non-wearing of seatbelts (€60 to €120), and failing to ensure that a child is properly restrained (€60 to €120).

Certain fines relating to safety offences committed by learner and novice drivers, are also increasing. The fine for a learner permit holder driving a vehicle unaccompanied by a qualified person will increase from €80 to €160. The fine for novice and learner drivers not displaying ‘L’ or ‘N’ plates, or tabards in the case of motorcyclists, will double to €120.

Minister Naughton also announced that three new Fixed Charge Notices will come into force in the new year. These relate to the misuse of a disabled parking permit. Illegally parking in an electric charging bay and breaching a HGV ban and entering a specified public road without a valid permit.*

Around 250 delegates will hear from a range of national and international experts on the topic of speeding at the RSA’s Annual Conference today. Rod King MBE, founder and Campaign Director of ‘20s plenty – Love 30’ will speak on the benefits of 30km/h speed limits. Rod has played an instrumental role in empowering local communities in the UK to campaign for default 30km/h limits on urban streets. Guro Ranes, Director of Road Traffic Safety, Norwegian Public Roads Administration will also guide attendees through Norway’s approach in tackling speeding with a particular focus on graduated speeding penalties.

Speaking at the RSA’s Annual Conference, Minister of State at the Department of Transport, Ms. Hildegarde Naughton said: “As of today there have been 122 people killed on the road, an increase of 11 on this day last year, and compared to 2019. In response to the increase in road deaths this year, this summer I announced that I was bringing forward the implementation of Action 30 in the Road Safety Strategy to review the penalties for serious road traffic offences and said that I intended to increase the fines for those offences that significantly contribute to road deaths.

Last week I signed the necessary regulations, which will double the fixed charge penalty for a total of 16 high-risk driving offences including speeding, use of a mobile phone while driving, failure to wear a seatbelt or use an appropriate child restraint, and unaccompanied learner driving. This increase will come into effect after midnight tonight. These fines have not increased since they were introduced, in some cases almost 20 years ago. Increasing fines for road offences will act as a stronger deterrent to those who choose to break our lifesaving rules of the road.”

Minister Naughton added, “Ireland’s current Road Safety Strategy outlines Safe Speeds as one of the main priority intervention areas. I’m delighted to see an emphasis, in today’s annual conference, on 30km/h speed limits. Setting more 30km/h speed limits on our streets is essential if we are to make our cities, towns and villages safe for communities, but it also has a role to play in tackling climate change and encouraging modal shift to more sustainable transport options.”

Ms Liz O’Donnell, Chairperson of the Road Safety Authority said: “Speed continues to be a contributory factor to fatal collisions in Ireland. Analysis of Irish Coronial data shows that one quarter of driver fatalities with a record of their actions available were exceeding a safe speed. Recent survey research conducted by the RSA** found that a third of drivers admitted to exceeding 50km/h speed limits by more than 10km/h ‘at least sometimes’. The same research found that just under a third of drivers reported exceeding 100km/h speed limits by more than 10km/h ‘at least sometimes’. This behaviour is concerning and that is why I want to commend the Minister’s decision to double the fines for drivers who break lifesaving rules of the road. It is timely as we head into a high-risk Bank Holiday and should help put us on the path to reduce deaths and serious injuries by 50% by the end of the decade.”

While the fine for 16 road traffic offences will increase to either €120 or €160 on the 27 October, it should be noted that if a driver fails to pay the fine within a 28 day period it increases to €180 or €240. Fail to pay after a further 28 day period and the fine increases to €240 or €320. In addition to the fines it is worth remembering that the choice to speed, use a mobile phone while driving or not properly restrain a child could lead to you losing your licence – if you are detected speeding you will receive 3 penalty points on your licence, if you get 12 penalty points in three years you will be disqualified for 6 months. A lower threshold of 7 points applies for learner and novice drivers.

Road Safety Authority’s Annual Conference Tackling Speeding – Risk Factors and Interventions will hear from experts at home including the RSA, Transport Infrastructure Ireland, the HSE and Ireland’s Love 30 Campaign.

International experts will also make presentations including Rod King MBE. Rod has played an instrumental role in empowering local communities in the UK to implement 30km/h speed zones. Dr Judy Fleiter, Global Manager with the Global Road Safety Partnership will discuss the motivations for speed choices on the road. Guro Ranes, Director of Road Traffic Safety, Norwegian Public Roads Administration who discuss Norway’s approach in tackling speeding with a particular focus on graduated speeding.

The World Health Organisation has estimated that a 5% reduction in average speed could result in a 30% reduction in fatal collisions, and therefore reducing motorists’ speed is essential to improving safety on our roads.

As of 26 October 2022 there have been 123 people killed on Irish roads this is an increase of 12 fatalities compared to the same date last year.

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By Waterford City & County Council

Two Waterford projects granted funding under Community Safety Innovation Fund 2022

It has been announced that the new Waterford Local Community Safety Partnership (WLCSP) has been successful in its recent application to the Community Safety Innovation Fund 2022, securing over €66,000 in the latest round of funding. 

The initiative aims to bring together statutory services, the voluntary and community sector, local councillors and community members in tackling community safety issues locally. The Waterford partnership is a pilot in Waterford City and County by Department of Justice and is supported by Waterford Council with the aim to replace the previous Joint Policing Committee structure.

Having submitted four applications to the Community Safety Innovation Fund 2022, the WLCSP were delighted to be included in Minister Helen McEntee’s recent announcement of €2 million in grants which sees the reinvesting the proceeds of crime back into communities. 

The independent Chair of the WLCSP, Mr Sean Aylward was delighted that an application for a Community Safety Project in Dungarvan has received €41,403 and that the Northwest Suburbs Community Action Plan also received a total of €25,000. According to Mr Aylward,

“The Dungarvan Community Project will lend itself to meaningful reskilling in the hospitality industry whilst also providing horticultural activities for youths and young adults to divert away from anti-social behaviour. It is anticipated that this project will be advanced with the support of the partners including Waterford Council and the Waterford & Wexford Education & Training Board.  

The stakeholder-driven Northwest Suburbs Community Action Plan will be the first step in providing a path forward to promote community safety and social cohesion in the combined Carrickpherish and Gracedieu areas of the city. This funding will allow us to pool the resources of all stakeholders within the partnership to the maximum benefit of safer communities. It’s a fantastic start for Waterford communities to see the proceeds of crime reinvested in local projects that improve community safety.”

At the ​announcement, Minister McEntee emphasised that:

“This fund reflects the successes of An Garda Síochána and the Criminal Assets Bureau in identifying and seizing the ill-gotten gains of criminals. Equally, people across Ireland are working tirelessly in their communities to prevent crime from taking hold and make their local areas safer. Working together, we will build stronger, safer communities.”

The Portlaw Engages Youth application has been referred to the Youth Justice Team for further consideration and with the fund due to increase by 50% to €3million under Budget 2023, there will be a further opportunity for innovative projects including the Evening & Nightime Economy Purple Flag application.   This is seen as a very positive first year for the pilot project with over €66,000 allocated to Waterford to proactively address crime in the community.

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By Waterford City & County Council

4 Waterford projects among beneficiaries as Minister Ryan launches “Pathfinder” Projects

Minister Ryan launches transformative Pathfinder Projects to bring more public transport, walking and cycling options to our villages, towns, and cities by 2025

Minister for Transport Eamon Ryan T.D. today launched the Pathfinder Programme of 35 exemplar transport projects to be delivered by local authorities and agencies around the country within the next three years.

The projects are those selected following Minister Ryan’s call to local authorities over the summer to submit their most innovative, transformative plans for public transport, walking and cycling in their areas – the projects that could make the greatest difference to people living in their counties.

The result is a broad variety of projects ranging from national game-changing proposals like making College Green in Dublin car-free to smaller, creative and equally effective projects like a Bus-it-2-school project in Co. Meath or a pilot programme in Co. Leitrim to integrate Local Link with a hackney and community e-bike scheme.

The launch took place in the new Castletymon Library, which is one of the focal points on the proposed Dublin 24 Rapid Build Cycling Network, which will connect the community in South Tallaght with the Luas, Tallaght Town Centre, Tallaght Hospital, five schools and sports communities, running in part through Bancroft Park. The new cycle path will also link onto the Dodder Greenway, with plans to support the local community to access bikes.

Put together, the selected pathfinder projects will begin to transform how we move, work and live across the country. They can be split into five categories:

• National Impact: includes CycleConnects, a national brand coordinating high-quality cycle routes in urban areas.

• Cycle Network/Corridor Proposals: projects such as West Wexford Urban Cycle Network, Sligo Cycle Corridor and Meath Rural Cycleway Rapid Development.

• Public Transport: projects such as Moyross Train Station and Athlone Bus Electrification.

• 15 Minute Neighbourhoods: projects such as the Letterkenny Active Travel Town and Naas Mobility Network and the 5 Cities Active Travel Demonstrators.

• Serving Schools/Universities: projects like the acceleration of the Safe Routes to School Programme, Limerick University Connectivity, BusIT2School in Co. Meath.

• Workshops and Research: includes nationwide Sustainable Mobility Training Workshops and Leitrim “Green Mile” Mobility Pilot.

The Pathfinder Programme is focused on reducing carbon emissions in the transport sector, by enabling the shift to cleaner transport choices. It also aims to bring increased momentum to the delivery of projects at a local level, providing templates that can be replicated and scaled up elsewhere, with a strong emphasis on experimental and innovative approaches.

Speaking at the launch, Minister Ryan said:

“I was delighted with the response to my call to local authorities to participate in the Pathfinder Programme. This first selected list shows clearly that there is a real appetite for change across the country. Shortlisted projects, while all unique, have three key things in common. They are innovative. They are ambitious. And critically, they will be delivered at speed. The Leadership Group through this Pathfinder Programme will continue to engage with all local authorities to ensure momentum and that the lessons and experience of the shortlisted projects are shared for everyone’s benefit.”

“Decarbonising transport presents an enormous challenge, one which requires a fundamental change in how we travel including a shift in our mindset and choices. By 2025 the selected pathfinder projects will be in action, improving the communities in which they will be implemented, and demonstrating to other localities how our system can be transformed. By delivering quickly, and by striking out on a path which others will follow, they will help to drive implementation of the Government’s Sustainable Mobility Policy.”

Anne Graham, CEO of the National Transport Authority said:

“Pathfinder Projects will be transformative in our cities by reducing car dependency and widening access for active travel and public transport. The projects can deliver once in a generation change to active travel through CycleConnects in all our cities focusing on the delivery of the core active travel networks in those cities and making new connections such as between Limerick’s three higher education institutions. The Pathfinder projects also supports the delivery of the first zero emission public transport services in Athlone and Dingle and starts us on an ambitious delivery path for zero emission bus services across Ireland.”

Michael Mulhern, Director of Planning and Transport, South Dublin County Council said:

“The scale of interest shown by Local Authorities across the Country in putting forward so many excellent projects is hugely encouraging. It shows the level of commitment and ambition that each Local Authority has to deliver these projects which will drastically enhance our local walking, cycling and public transport networks. We need the continued support from central Government, the NTA as well as local communities to successfully deliver these projects.”

The Pathfinder Programme forms a key part of the implementation of the National Sustainable Mobility Policy (SMP), which is a vital part of the Government’s plan to meet Ireland’s requirement to achieve a 50% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 in the transport sector.

A full list of the 35 Pathfinder Programme projects for 2022-2025 under the National Sustainable Mobility Policy is available here.

By Waterford City & County Council

Waterford wins Shared Island Funding

Taoiseach Micheál Martin has announced the successful award recipients under the Shared Island Local Authority Development Funding Scheme.

One of the successful applicants is Waterford City and County Council, which, in partnership with Mid and East Antrim Borough Council, has been awarded almost €250,000 in order to initiate regeneration projects in Portlaw and Dunmore East in Waterford along with the partner communities of Portglenone and Glenarm in Antrim.

Nationally, more than €4.3m has been allocated to 15 lead local authorities in the South, working in partnership with nine Councils in Northern Ireland to develop collaborative cross-border investment projects over the next 12 months.

The successful projects are spread across a range of sectors including biodiversity, tourism, decarbonisation, the circular economy, rural and urban regeneration, education, business innovation, and cultural and creative industries.

The scheme, which is funded by the Shared Island Fund and managed by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, enables local authorities to progress feasibility and development work on new joint investment projects, which deliver local and regional development goals.

In announcing the successful projects, the Taoiseach said, “The Government is proud to support each of these 25 projects, as we work with all communities and political traditions on this island for a shared, reconciled future, underpinned by the Good Friday Agreement.”

The Waterford project, concentrating on the communities of Portlaw and Dunmore East, will specifically look at vacant, derelict and underutilised properties and facilities in these towns with a view towards their regeneration and repurposing and with a medium-term aim to source further Shared Island funding in order to advance the actual re-construction and regeneration of the sites.

In order to be successful, this will require significant collaborative effort – across communities, across state agencies and indeed across our shared border, working with community groups, property owners, entrepreneurs and other stakeholders to ensure the success of the project.

Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. John O’Leary, said that he was delighted with the award and that the Council was looking forward to working with our local authority colleagues in Mid and East Antrim. “Any initiative which supports greater understanding, increased cooperation and shared commitment across our island, and, in particular, across our North-South communities has to welcomed. Waterford will do its very best in order to make this relationship a fruitful one.”

Richie Walsh, Head of Rural Development with Waterford City and County Council added, “This is the first time that Waterford has been successful in a Shared Island funding application and we look forward to working with our Northern Ireland partners in order to deliver a really successful project, a project that is not just successful in its own right but one that can act to leverage further North-South cooperation, local authority linkages and, indeed, funding opportunities.”

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By Waterford City & County Council

Conservation Advice Pilot Programme

The Department of Housing, Local Government, and Heritage is running a pilot scheme to provide grants for expert conservation advice on protected structures in private ownership.

The scheme will provide grants of €3,000 (ex. VAT) to cover the cost of having a conservation-accredited architect visit the property, conduct a survey, and compile tailored conservation advice for the property owner. The report will outline maintenance guidelines for the building, and suggest repairs and improvements which would enhance the building’s character, integrity, and amenity.

The aim of the scheme is to help owners of protected structures to understand the value and potential of the architectural heritage of their buildings, and to prompt them to consider investments which could enhance that value, whether funded privately or through conservation grants. All applicants must be willing to complete two short questionnaires to assist with the evaluation of the scheme.

Applicants must complete the application form

Download the form here: Conservation Advice Pilot – Application Form

and submit it to builtheritage@housing.gov.ie by Friday, September 30th using the subject line Conservation Advice Pilot Scheme. Alternatively, applicants may submit their form by post to Conservation Advice Pilot Scheme, Built Heritage Policy Unit, Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, 1.06 Custom House, D01 W6X0 by the same date. Successful applicants will be selected by lottery and notified using the contact details provided in the application form.

Successful applicants will be provided by the Department with a list of conservation-accredited architects participating in the scheme. The applicant must then select an architect from the list and arrange a site visit to be carried out as soon as possible so that the architect can complete and submit their report by the deadline of November 12th.

Following the site visit the architect will compile a report using a Conservation Advice Template. The completed report will be provided to both the building owner and the Department. The Department will use the reports only for the purpose of approving the grant payment, in line with the Data Privacy Statement attached.

The Department will make grant payments directly to the architect on receipt and approval of the required Conservation Advice and invoice. Building owners are not asked to make any upfront payments or provide matched funding.

Conservation Advice Pilot – Privacy Statement

By Waterford City & County Council

Waterford Libraries awarded €33,597 funding for Library Supports

 

 

 

 

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 (Thursday 4th August 2022) announced €700,000 in funding for library supports.

The funding, under the Dormant Accounts Action Plan, is designed to assist libraries in reaching out to older people, children from disadvantaged communities, people with disabilities and other marginalised groups.

Waterford Libraries has been awarded €33,597 in the latest round of funding.  The funding will help in the provision of programmes and equipment such as Touch Type Read & Spell, a multi-sensory course that teaches touch-typing to help children and adults improve their reading and spelling skills; C-Pens, line text scanners for those with reading difficulties, and Times Table Rock Star, an application that makes maths fun to learn. Waterford has also received funding to continue the Story Collecting Oral History project which has been running successfully for the past two years across the County.

Announcing the funding, Minister Humphreys said, “I am delighted today to announce €700,000 in funding to libraries across the country. The sort of innovative projects that are being funded under this initiative will create a more welcoming and engaging library experience for thousands of people. They will put our libraries at the forefront of reaching out to all members of the local community in which they serve. I would really encourage families to look at the projects being funding in their own county.”

Jane Cantwell, Waterford City and County Librarian, Waterford City and County Council, welcomed the funding.  “We are delighted to be included in the latest round of Library Supports funding for Marginalised, Socially Excluded and Disadvantaged Communities.  The programmes that will be put in place as a result of the funding, will galvanise our wide range of dyslexia-friendly services at our branches and allow us to continue collect the great stories that Waterford people have to tell across the city and county.”

Commenting on the funding, Minister O’Brien said, “I am delighted to approve these projects under the 2022 Dormant Accounts Action Plan. The projects are diverse in nature and target a multiplicity of groups including the Traveller community, Ukrainians displaced by war, residents of Direct Provision Centres and the elderly. There is also funding for groups working to provide autism supports, and groups working with hearing and visually impaired communities, prisoners and people with learning differences such as dyslexia. This funding package will build on the excellent projects which have been delivered over the past three years and also help our public libraries to continue to foster community well-being and build community cohesion in their role as community hubs.”

The Funding complements over €3.1 million announced by Minister Humphreys recently for major expansion of My Open Library which saw Tramore Library benefitting to the tune of  €225,859, while Dungarvan and Lismore Libraries were granted €52,672 and €33,379 respectively for the upgrade of the existing ‘My Open Library’ services.

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By Waterford City & County Council

Minister Naughton set to double fines for key road traffic offences

  • RSA and An Garda Síochána call on road users to ‘Summer Safely’ as peak holiday season begins
  • August 2021 worst month for road deaths in a decade with 22 deaths
  • 94 deaths and 673 serious injuries to date to date in 2022 – 42% increase in fatalities
  • An Garda Síochána announce 61 new safety camera zones bringing total to 1,373
  • RSA to introduce new campaign to highlight the ‘Speed Fallacy’
  • Road users urged to share the road safely and for drivers to slow down.

Minister of State at the Department of Transport, Ms. Hildegarde Naughton is set to introduce regulations that will double the fixed charges relating to key road safety offences including speeding, phone use and non-wearing of seatbelts. This will see the fine for speeding increase from €80 to €160 and the fine for using a mobile phone while driving or for not wearing a seatbelt will double to €120. Fines will be doubled for other offences that put the safety of vulnerable road users at risk.

The announcement was made at the Road Safety Authority (RSA) and An Garda Síochána’s mid-summer road safety appeal which urged road users to share the roads safely and for drivers to slow down as the peak summer holiday season gets into full swing.

The appeal took place at Atlantic Technological University (ATU) in Letterkenny, Co. Donegal and seeks to remind road users that they should expect higher traffic volumes, not just over the August Bank Holiday but throughout August, as tourists and holidaymakers take to the road during what is a high-risk period on the road.

The highest number of monthly fatalities in 10 years was recorded in August 2021 with an alarming total of 22 deaths. 2022 has already seen a 42% increase in fatalities compared to the same period in 2021. 94 people have been killed on the roads so far this year, an increase of 28 deaths.

Speaking at the launch of the Road Safety Appeal at ATU Donegal, Minister of State at the Department of Transport, Ms. Hildegarde Naughton said: “I am gravely concerned about the high number of deaths on our roads this year. We need to act now to stem this increase. Accordingly, I intend to double the fines for key road traffic offences which are putting drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists at most risk of death on our roads. For example, the fine for speeding will soon increase from €80 to €160 and the fine for using a mobile phone while driving or for not wearing a seatbelt will double to €120. I will also be doubling fines for offences which put the safety of our children who are walking, cycling, or scooting to school at risk. Increasing fines for these offences will act as a stronger deterrent to those who break our lifesaving rules of the road.”

Continuing, Minister Naughton said, “We are approaching August which is typically a very busy time of the year on our roads and as such a high-risk period. The summer is an exciting time when so many people take holidays to explore new and familiar places across Ireland, but we must remember to stay safe on the road while doing so. August is also a busy time for road works and safety upgrades so I would appeal to motorists to be mindful of those who are working to improve the quality of our roads, footpaths and cycle-lanes.”

Ms Liz O’Donnell, Chairperson, Road Safety Authority said: “We have seen a devastating increase in road trauma this year. 94 people have died and 673 seriously injured. All of us have a responsibility to stop this upward trend in road crashes. I want to commend the Minister’s decision to double the fines for drivers who break lifesaving rules of the road. There are too many people being killed and seriously injured and we must act to prevent more families from going through this trauma.”

Ms O’Donnell added, “At the RSA we will be launching a new campaign to highlight what’s known as the ‘Speed Fallacy’. The ‘Speed Fallacy’ is the belief that you save lots of time by speeding on a journey when in fact the time savings are miniscule, a minute or two at most on an average journey.”

She concluded by saying “We are heading into the main summer holiday period of the year and road users should expect increased traffic volumes and therefore a higher level of risk when using the road. We are asking all road users to bear this in mind. Our advice to all road users is to remain alert to danger and expect the unexpected on the road.”

Assistant Commissioner Paula Hilman, Roads Policing and Community Engagement, An Garda Síochána said: “There has been an alarming increase in road traffic incidents this year. We know many people will be eager to take to the roads to enjoy the remainder of the summer period, but we want people to do so responsibly. Sadly 94 families already this year have been visited by members of An Garda Síochána to be told the devastating news of the loss of a loved one.

An Garda Síochána will continue to enforce our life saving road traffic laws and we are committed to targeted enforcement and increased Garda visibility on our roads to address the worrying increase in road deaths this year.”

Assistant Commissioner Hilman added, “I am pleased to announce that as of 6am this morning, 61 New safety camera zones will become operational, bringing the total number of safety camera zones nationwide to 1,373’.

Between January and mid July this year a total of 88,368 motorists have been detected speeding, I would appeal to all motorists to slowdown.

Mr Sam Waide, CEO of the Road Safety Authority said: “As we head into main holidaying month of summer, the roads will be busy with people holidaying at home and tourists holidaying here from Northern Ireland, and further afield. The roads will also be very busy with people socialising, travelling to sporting events, festivals, agricultural vehicles bringing in winter and spring harvests, cyclists, walkers, and children who are on summer holidays. My appeal is for all road users to share the road safely, be considerate of other road users and most of all slow down. It’s better to arrive alive than not at all.”

Mr. Waide added “We are deeply concerned by the level of fatalities and serious injuries taking place on our roads already this year. The progress we have made in road safety over the last number of years is at risk of stalling.  The June Bank Holiday alone saw eight people die in road collisions on what should have been an enjoyable long weekend which instead turned into a tragedy for some. Let’s all work together to avoid a repeat of this and ensure we all stay safe and enjoy what remains of the summer.”

This August Bank Holiday Weekend drivers are being reminded that the RSA and participating Applegreen service stations are providing free cups of coffee to drivers to help combat driver fatigue. The offer is available from 2pm to 8pm on Friday 29th and on Monday 1 June.

The RSA will also be distributing free reusable cups at select Applegreen stores on Friday 29th July. Please visit one of the following stores to claim yours:

  • M1 Lusk North – Dublin
  • Ballymount Applegreen – Dublin
  • Midway Food Court Applegreen – Portlaoise – Laoise
  • Lemybrien Applegreen -Waterford
  • Tuam road – Galway

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