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By Waterford City & County Council

Waterford City and County Council launches Election Hub ahead of Local Elections 2024

Waterford City and County Council recently launched its dedicated Elections Hub site.

The online hub Waterford Elections 2024 provides real time information ahead of the upcoming local and European elections.

The site contains information about the local and European elections, details of Waterford’s six electoral areas, along with information about voting eligibility.

This, the first dedicated election hub to be rolled out by a local authority in Ireland, was designed by Waterford City and County Council’s GIS and Data Transformation team.

Commenting on the launch of the hub, Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. Joe Conway said, “This is an informative, accessible, and easy-to-use resource, available in Irish and English, that will answer the questions Waterford’s electorate is asking.

“It offers key information in the run up to the elections such as providing directions to assigned polling stations and local electoral area maps which will prove very useful and make the voting process easier.”

The mayor added, “We are particularly proud that the hub is also available in Irish. As a Gaeltacht County, this resource will be a valuable and trusted source of information ‘as Gaeilge’ for all our citizens to make informed choices at the ballot box.”

Jon Hawkins, Waterford City and County Council’s GIS Project Lead, explains the premise of the hub. “Waterford Elections hub was built using the council’s geographical information system (ArcGIS by ESRI) and is updated daily from the Register of Electors database, using its data integration and data enrichment platform, FME by Safe Software.

“Not only will it provide residents and voters with relevant ballot information before they cast their vote, but the design also aims to increase voter participation as it helps voters find their assigned polling station so they can easily cast their vote on the day.”

Dermot O’Kane of ERSI welcomed the initiative saying, “This is a fantastic new resource for the people of Waterford. This new web app harnesses the power of data to provide its citizens with easy access to election information, empowering them to engage meaningfully in the process.”

Paul Johnston, Acting Director of Services and Returning Officer with Waterford City and County Council added, “The hub will continue to update and evolve over the coming months. Once the election polling day is announced by the Minister of Housing, Planning and Local Government, Waterford City and County Council will publish notice inviting nominations, which when approved, will be added to the hub.

“This information will include the name and address of the candidate and the electoral area in which they are running. In total, candidates will contest for 32 seats across six local electoral areas in Waterford city and county.”

The hub can be used to access information such as:

  • Locate my Polling Station: This application helps you locate your assigned Polling Station by entering your Eircode.
  • Local Electoral Area Map: View the extent of each individual Electoral Area within Waterford City and County on desktop, tablet, or smart phone.
  • Voting and Registration FAQs: Comprehensive list of common questions you may be asking before an election or casting your ballot.
  • Who are my Councillors: By simply entering your Eircode you will be informed about what electoral area you live within and details of current local, national and European Elected representatives (updated when Notice of Poll date closing date has passed).
  • Election Results: Explore certified results as they become available.

Find out more about the upcoming local and European elections at Waterford Elections 2024 at www.waterfordcouncil.ie

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Images: Free to use – Patrick Browne: At the launch of the Waterford Elections online hub with Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. Joe Conway are Honor Dunphy Administrative Officer, Máire Seó Breathnach, Irish Officer, Jon Hawkins GIS Project Lead, Waterford City & County Council

By Waterford City & County Council

Seolann Comhairle Cathrach agus Contae Phort Láirge Mol Toghcháin roimh Thoghcháin Áitiúla 2024

Sheol Comhairle Cathrach agus Contae Phort Láirge láithreán tiomnaithe Toghchán le déanaí.

Cuireann an mol ar líne Toghcháin Phort Láirge 2024 eolas fíor-ama ar fáil roimh na toghcháin áitiúla agus Eorpacha atá ar na bacáin.

Tá eolas ar an láithreán faoi na toghcháin áitiúla agus Eorpacha, sonraí faoi shé thoghcheantar Phort Láirge, mar aon le heolas faoi incháilitheacht vótála.

Ba é foireann GIS agus Claochlaithe Sonraí de chuid Chomhairle Cathrach agus Contae Phort Láirge a dhear an mol seo, an chéad mhol toghcháin tiomnaithe atá curtha ar fáil ag údarás áitiúil in Éirinn.

Ag trácht ar sheoladh an mhoil, dúirt Méara Chathair agus Chontae Phort Láirge, An Comhairleoir Seosamh Ó Conmhuí, “Is acmhainn faisnéiseach, inrochtana agus éasca le húsáid í seo, atá ar fáil i nGaeilge agus i mBéarla, a thabharfaidh freagra ar na ceisteanna atá á gcur ag toghthóirí Phort Láirge.

“Cuireann sé faisnéis ríthábhachtach ar fáil sa tréimhse roimh na toghcháin, ar nós faisnéis faoi threoracha chuig stáisiúin vótála sannta agus léarscáileanna na dtoghcheantar áitiúil, rudaí a bheidh an-úsáideach agus a dhéanfaidh an próiseas vótála níos éasca do dhaoine.”

Dúirt an Méara chomh maith, “Táimid an-bhródúil go bhfuil an mol seo ar fáil i nGaeilge freisin. Mar chontae Gaeltachta, foinse eolais an-luachmhar agus iontaofa as Gaeilge a bheidh san acmhainn seo, a thabharfaidh deis dár saoránaigh uile cinneadh eolach a dhéanamh ag an mbosca ballóide.”

Tugann Jon Hawkins, Ceannaire Tionscadail GIS Chomhairle Cathrach agus Contae Phort Láirge, míniú ar bhunús an mhoil. “Tógadh Mol Toghcháin Phort Láirge trí úsáid a bhaint as córas faisnéise geografaí na Comhairle (ArcGIS an ESRI) agus déantar é a nuashonrú go laethúil ó bhunachar sonraí Chlár na dToghthóirí, ag baint úsáide as a ardán comhtháthaithe agus saibhrithe sonraí, FME de chuid Safe Software.

“Ní hamháin go gcuirfidh sé faisnéis bhallóide ábhartha ar fáil do chónaitheoirí agus do vótálaithe sula gcaithfidh siad a vóta, ach tá sé mar aidhm ag an dearadh freisin rannpháirtíocht vótálaithe a mhéadú mar go gcabhraíonn sé le vótálaithe teacht ar a stáisiún vótála sannta ionas gur féidir leo a vóta a chaitheamh go héasca ar an lá.”

Chuir Dermot O’Kane ón ESRI fáilte roimh an tionscnamh ag rá, “Acmhainn nua iontach is ea í seo do phobal Phort Láirge. Úsáideann an aip seo cumhacht sonraí chun rochtain simplí ar eolas faoin dtoghchán a thabhairt do shaoránaigh, ag cur ar a gcumas dul i ngleic go fóinteach leis an bpróiséas vótála.”

Dúirt Paul Johnston, Stiúrthóir Gníomhach Seirbhísí agus Ceann Comhairimh le Comhairle Cathrach agus Contae Phort Láirge, “Leanfaidh an mol ag uasdátú agus ag athrú sna míonna amach romhainn. A luaithe is a fhógróidh an tAire Tithíochta, Pleanála agus Rialtais Áitiúil lá vótaíochta an toghcháin, foilseoidh Comhairle Cathrach agus Contae Phort Láirge fógra ag lorg ainmniúchán, a chuirfear leis an mol nuair a cheadófar é.

“Beidh ainm agus seoladh an iarrthóra agus an toghcheantair ina bhfuil siad ag rith san áireamh san fhaisnéis seo. Ar an iomlán, beidh iarrthóirí ag seasamh chun 32 shuíochán a líonadh trasna sé cinn de thoghlimistéir áitiúla i gcathair agus i gcontae Phort Láirge.”

Is féidir an mol a úsáid chun rochtain a fháil ar fhaisnéis amhail:

  • Aimsigh mo Stáisiún Vótála: Cabhraíonn an feidhmchlár seo leat do Stáisiún Vótála a aimsiú trí d’Eirchód a chur isteach.
  • Léarscáil na dToghcheantar Áitiúil: Breathnaigh ar mhéid gach Toghcheantair ar leith laistigh de Chathair agus Contae Phort Láirge ar ríomhaire deisce, ar tháibléad nó ar fhón cliste.
  • Ceisteanna Coitianta faoi Vótáil agus Clárú: Liosta cuimsitheach de cheisteanna coitianta a d’fhéadfá a chur roimh thoghchán nó do bhallóid a chaitheamh.
  • Cé hiad mo Chomhairleoirí: Trí d’Eirchód a chur isteach, cuirfear ar an eolas thú faoin toghlimistéar ina bhfuil cónaí ort agus faoi shonraí na n-ionadaithe tofa áitiúla, náisiúnta agus Eorpacha atá ann faoi láthair (arna thabhairt cothrom le dáta nuair a bheidh dáta deiridh an Fhógra Vótaíochta caite).
  • Torthaí na dToghchán: Déan iniúchadh ar thorthaí deimhnithe de réir mar a bheidh siad ar fáil.

Faigh tuilleadh eolais faoi na toghcháin áitiúla agus Eorpacha atá ar na bacáin ag Toghcháin Phort Láirge 2024 ag www.waterfordcouncil.ie

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Íomhánna: Saor in Aisce le húsáid — Patrick Browne: Ag seoladh mhol ar líne do Thoghcháin Phort Láirge le Méara Chathair agus Chontae Phort Láirge, An Comhairleoir Seosamh Ó Conmhuí, tá Honor Dunphy, Oifigeach Riaracháin; Máire Seó Breathnach, Oifigeach Gaeilge agus Jon Hawkins Ceannaire Tionscadail GIS, Comhairle Cathrach & Contae Phort Láirge.

By Waterford City & County Council

Waterford City Public Infrastructure Project (North Quays) Update

Waterford City Public Infrastructure Project (North Quays) Update

The next phase of traffic management in Ferrybank will commence from Tuesday 20th February, on Fountain Street between the junctions with Rockshire Road and Abbey Road. It is anticipated that this works phase will take approx. 6 weeks to complete.

Warnings and signage will be in place throughout these works and on approaches.

Waterford City and County Council appreciates the public’s continued patience and cooperation while this extensive infrastructure project progresses. When works are complete it will deliver a new realigned section of Abbey Road with increased capacity, while the footprint of the existing Abbey Road will be recreated to a cycle and pedestrian friendly local road access for the schools and nursing home located on this section of the road.

A direct access to the new South East Greenway will also be created.

By Waterford City & County Council

SLí’s Big Swap

SLí Big Swap event
SLí Big Swap event

Do you have under loved Christmas presents? Or something that’s not your style but somebody else would love? Bring it to SLí’s Big Swap! Waterford SLí, Ardkeen Library and Waterford Council’s Environment Department are delighted to host this wonderful swap event on Saturday 24th in Ardkeen Library 2-4pm.

The details: Bring up to 5 items (in good nick) and swap them for vouchers. On Saturday swap your vouchers for whatever items you like. You can drop your items from Monday 19th February to Ardkeen library. Come and take even of you can’t bring. All for free? What could be better?Toys, Books, Gift Sets, Games, Candles, Instruments, Sport Equipment – The List Goes On!Free event, all welcome!

By Waterford City & County Council

Waterford joins the UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities (GNLC)

Waterford City view

Waterford has been designated a UNESCO Learning City and been invited to join the UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities. The UNESCO Learning City Designation recognises good practices in promoting quality education and lifelong learning opportunities for all. This achievement of Learning City status follows the collaborative work of Waterford City and County Council, Kilkenny County Council, the Southern Regional Assembly, SETU, Waterford Chambers and the ETBs in preparing an application to UNESCO, setting out the ambition and commitment in Waterford to fostering lifelong learning opportunities for all its citizens.

As a member of the UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities, Waterford can grow and develop as a recognised city of learning and build upon the strong stakeholder commitment and political support of the Learning City Initiative. The Designation of Waterford as a UNESCO Learning City is strongly supported by regional policy and advances the ambition set out in the Southern Regional Assembly’s Regional Spatial and Economic Strategy to develop Waterford City as a UNESCO Learning City, joining Limerick and Cork City as part of a network of Learning Cities and to develop the entire Southern Region as a UNESCO Learning Region.

Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. Joe Conway said, “As Mayor I would like to express how proud we are to be joining the UNESCO Learning Cities family.

“One of the most significant things about this network is the strong emphasis on lifelong learning, and that is something that we in Waterford as a council, and as a city will strive to consolidate and promote for the people of Waterford.”

He added, “Myself, my council colleagues, and the people of the city have a great and unwavering belief in the importance of learning…from the cradle to the grave.  We will do everything we can to be vibrant members of the UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities and assure you of our great commitment and support.”

On receiving news of the UNESCO Designation, Cathaoirleach of the Southern Regional Assembly, Terry Shannon said, “I want to commend the great collaboration of all involved in making this commitment for Waterford to become a UNESCO Learning City. Becoming a Learning City will help achieve progress in disadvantaged areas and marginalised communities and will develop our knowledge, innovation and strong skills base our future.”

The designation of Waterford as a UNESCO Learning City has also been welcomed and commended by Waterford Members of the Southern Regional Assembly, Cllr. Tom Cronin, Cllr. Thomas Phelan and Cllr. Conor D. McGuinness.

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By Waterford City & County Council

Comhairliúchán Poiblí 1 : Bealach Rothaíochta Eochaill go Dún Garbhán

Proposed Cycle Route

Tugann Comhairle Cathrach agus Contae Phort Láirge, le tacaíocht ó Bhonneagar Iompair Éireann agus Comhairle Contae Chorcaí, cuireadh dóibh siúd a chónaíonn, a oibríonn nó a thugann cuairt ar an limistéar staidéir idir Eochaill agus Dún Garbhán agus aon pháirtithe leasmhara eile páirt a ghlacadh sa chéad chomhairliúchán poiblí neamhreachtúil do Bhealach Rothaíochta Eochaill go Dún Garbhán.

Tá sé mar aidhm ag an tionscadal Bealach Rothaíochta Eochaill go Dún Garbhán bealach rothaíochta sábháilte, nasctha agus tarraingteach a chur ar fáil idir Eochaill agus Dún Garbhán, agus é mar chuid de nasc straitéiseach sa Líonra Náisiúnta Rothaíochta (NCN). Tá an tionscadal mar chuid den ‘Tionscadal maidir le Treo-Aimsitheoir Corcaigh go Port Láirge’ atá aitheanta ag an Roinn Iompair chun tacú le Beartas Soghluaisteachta Inbhuanaithe Rialtas na hÉireann. Cuirfidh an tionscadal ar chumas úsáideoirí rothaíocht go sábháilte chun críocha áineasa, fóillíochta agus comaitéireachta idir an dá bhaile agus tá sé mar aidhm leis feabhas a chur ar inrochtaineacht ar sheirbhísí, ar áiseanna agus ar nithe is díol spéise, amhail Slí Dhéagláin, feadh an bhealaigh.

Tá an tionscadal i gCéim 2 faoi láthair: Roghnú Roghanna, lena mbaineann conairí bealaí féideartha laistigh de réimse an staidéir a shainaithint agus a mheasúnú chun cinneadh a dhéanamh maidir leis an rogha bealaigh is fearr.

Iarrtar ort teacht chuig ár n-imeachtaí comhairliúcháin phoiblí chun tuilleadh eolais a fháil faoin tionscadal agus chun do thuairimí agus d’aiseolas faoin scéim a roinnt linn.

Beidh dhá imeacht comhairliúcháin phoiblí ar an láthair ar siúl mar seo a leanas:

  1. Dé Máirt, 20 Feabhra 2024: 14:30-20:00
    Óstán na Páirce, Dún Garbhán, Co. Phort Láirge, X35 CC97
  2. Dé Céadaoin, an 21 Feabhra 2024: 14:30-20:00
    Ionad Ealaíon an Mheal, Teach an Mheal, Eochaill, Co. Chorcaí, P36 FR96

Is féidir leat páirt a ghlacadh sa chomhairliúchán poiblí ar líne freisin trí fhéachaint ar fhaisnéis an tionscadail agus tríd an bhfoirm aiseolais ar shuíomh gréasáin tiomnaithe an tionscadail a líonadh isteach ag: y2dcycleroute.ie ón 20ú Feabhra.

Beidh eolas faoin tionscadal agus foirmeacha aiseolais ar fáil freisin ag Oifigí Cathartha Dhún Garbhán, Leabharlann Dhún Garbhán agus Leabharlann Eochaille ón 20 Feabhra. Beidh an comhairliúchán poiblí neamhreachtúil ar oscailt le haghaidh tuairimí ón Máirt 20 Feabhra go dtí Dé Máirt 5 Márta.

Mura féidir leat freastal ar cheann dár n-imeachtaí i bpearsain agus mura bhfuil tú in ann teacht ar an suíomh gréasáin, ná bíodh drogall ort teagmháil a dhéanamh le foireann an tionscadail ar an teileafón ar 0818 10 20 10 agus a chur in iúl go mbaineann do ghlao le Bealach Rothaíochta Eochaill go Dún Garbhán, trí ríomhphost a sheoladh chuig ActiveTravel@waterfordcouncil.ie nó tríd an bpost chuig Comhairle Cathrach & Contae Phort Láirge, An Rannóg um Thaisteal Gníomhach, Rannóg na mBóithre, Oifigí Cathartha, Dún Garbhán, Co. Phort Láirge.

By Waterford City & County Council

Comhairliúchán Poiblí 1 : Bealach Rothaíochta Eochaill go Dún Garbhán

Tugann Comhairle Cathrach agus Contae Phort Láirge, le tacaíocht ó Bhonneagar Iompair Éireann agus Comhairle Contae Chorcaí, cuireadh dóibh siúd a chónaíonn, a oibríonn nó a thugann cuairt ar an limistéar staidéir idir Eochaill agus Dún Garbhán agus aon pháirtithe leasmhara eile páirt a ghlacadh sa chéad chomhairliúchán poiblí neamhreachtúil do Bhealach Rothaíochta Eochaill go Dún Garbhán.

Tá sé mar aidhm ag an tionscadal Bealach Rothaíochta Eochaill go Dún Garbhán bealach rothaíochta sábháilte, nasctha agus tarraingteach a chur ar fáil idir Eochaill agus Dún Garbhán, agus é mar chuid de nasc straitéiseach sa Líonra Náisiúnta Rothaíochta (NCN). Tá an tionscadal mar chuid den ‘Tionscadal maidir le Treo-Aimsitheoir Corcaigh go Port Láirge’ atá aitheanta ag an Roinn Iompair chun tacú le Beartas Soghluaisteachta Inbhuanaithe Rialtas na hÉireann. Cuirfidh an tionscadal ar chumas úsáideoirí rothaíocht go sábháilte chun críocha áineasa, fóillíochta agus comaitéireachta idir an dá bhaile agus tá sé mar aidhm leis feabhas a chur ar inrochtaineacht ar sheirbhísí, ar áiseanna agus ar nithe is díol spéise, amhail Slí Dhéagláin, feadh an bhealaigh.

Tá an tionscadal i gCéim 2 faoi láthair: Roghnú Roghanna, lena mbaineann conairí bealaí féideartha laistigh de réimse an staidéir a shainaithint agus a mheasúnú chun cinneadh a dhéanamh maidir leis an rogha bealaigh is fearr.

Iarrtar ort teacht chuig ár n-imeachtaí comhairliúcháin phoiblí chun tuilleadh eolais a fháil faoin tionscadal agus chun do thuairimí agus d’aiseolas faoin scéim a roinnt linn.

Beidh dhá imeacht comhairliúcháin phoiblí ar an láthair ar siúl mar seo a leanas:

  1. Dé Máirt, 20 Feabhra 2024: 14:30-20:00
    Óstán na Páirce, Dún Garbhán, Co. Phort Láirge, X35 CC97
  2. Dé Céadaoin, an 21 Feabhra 2024: 14:30-20:00
    Ionad Ealaíon an Mheal, Teach an Mheal, Eochaill, Co. Chorcaí, P36 FR96

Is féidir leat páirt a ghlacadh sa chomhairliúchán poiblí ar líne freisin trí fhéachaint ar fhaisnéis an tionscadail agus tríd an bhfoirm aiseolais ar shuíomh gréasáin tiomnaithe an tionscadail a líonadh isteach ag: y2dcycleroute.ie ón 20ú Feabhra.

Beidh eolas faoin tionscadal agus foirmeacha aiseolais ar fáil freisin ag Oifigí Cathartha Dhún Garbhán, Leabharlann Dhún Garbhán agus Leabharlann Eochaille ón 20 Feabhra. Beidh an comhairliúchán poiblí neamhreachtúil ar oscailt le haghaidh tuairimí ón Máirt 20 Feabhra go dtí Dé Máirt 5 Márta.

Mura féidir leat freastal ar cheann dár n-imeachtaí i bpearsain agus mura bhfuil tú in ann teacht ar an suíomh gréasáin, ná bíodh drogall ort teagmháil a dhéanamh le foireann an tionscadail ar an teileafón ar 0818 10 20 10 agus a chur in iúl go mbaineann do ghlao le Bealach Rothaíochta Eochaill go Dún Garbhán, trí ríomhphost a sheoladh chuig ActiveTravel@waterfordcouncil.ie nó tríd an bpost chuig Comhairle Cathrach & Contae Phort Láirge, An Rannóg um Thaisteal Gníomhach, Rannóg na mBóithre, Oifigí Cathartha, Dún Garbhán, Co. Phort Láirge.

By Waterford City & County Council

Local Enterprise Office Waterford announces programme for Local Enterprise Week 2024

Waterford Local Enterprise Office has announced a programme of 14 events across 5 days during Local Enterprise Week 2024, taking place for Waterford City and County businesses from March 4th to March 8th.

This year’s Local Enterprise Week will feature a host of informative and engaging workshops, seminars, presentations and advice clinics aimed at local businesses, whether in pre-start, start-up or as an established business looking to grow.

You can learn from the experts in finance, marketing, social media, A.I. and photography. You can create digital opportunities for business, audit your website and source funding.

A key event in this packed programme is the ever popular ‘Social Media Mash-Up’, taking place on Thursday March 7th from 10am to 12.30. Hosted by Teresanne O’Reilly it features digital marketing expert Muriel Foley of MGFD; Stephanie Wickham of Expat Taxes, winner of last year’s Digital Marketing Awards; Kevin Doolan, Director of Innovation at Walton Institute for Information and Communication Systems Science and Paul Dower, founder of Waterford in your pocket.

Tuesday March 5th celebrates the future of enterprise in Waterford with the Student Enterprise Programme County final in the Tower Hotel. 42 businesses from 12 schools will compete on the day for a place at the National Finals in May.

Later in the week the Local Enterprise Office celebrates International Women’s Day with a Dungarvan Chamber event on Thursday evening and a Networking Breakfast event on the Friday morning in the Viking Hotel.

Head of Enterprise at Local Enterprise Office Waterford Gareth Evans is looking forward to his first Enterprise Week, “This year’s Local Enterprise Week programme has something for everyone, whatever phase your business is in, or whatever sector your business is in.  The range of events and the calibre of speakers and facilitators have been specifically chosen by the team here in Waterford to address, with practical insight, what is required in achieving your business goals.

“The Local Enterprise Offices are tasked with assisting start-ups and small businesses to “Make it Happen”, each office strives to give these businesses the opportunities and resources to unleash their potential and make the path to growth as unhindered as possible. They also give those thinking of starting or expanding a business access to the full range of supports provided by State bodies and expert third parties, and that cross pollination is well reflected in the 2024 Local Enterprise Week programme.

“Waterford Local Enterprise Office is delighted to work in conjunction with various key business support organisations and state agencies, including Enterprise Ireland, Dungarvan Chamber and Waterford Chamber of Commerce to provide a programme that gives start-ups and small businesses opportunities to help them on the path to growth.”

To register for Local Enterprise Week events taking place in Waterford city and county from March 4th to 8th, visit https://www.localenterprise.ie/!AK56SF. Most events are completely free of charge while some have a nominal booking fee.  As with every year, many of the events are expected to book up quickly so early booking is strongly advised.

ENDS

By Waterford City & County Council

Local retailers Re-turn to recycling

It is estimated that 5 million single-use drinks bottles and cans are consumed every day in Ireland. Drinks containers are typically consumed ‘on the go’ and are often thrown away in mixed waste or litter, instead of being recycled.

In November of last year, The Minister of State with responsibility for Communications and Circular Economy, Ossian Smyth launched Ireland’s national Deposit Return Scheme (DRS).

The Deposit Return Scheme will boost the recycling rate for these drinks containers – by charging a small, refundable deposit for each plastic bottle or can.  From February 1st, 2024, empty and undamaged bottles or cans with the Re-turn logo can be returned to a participating store, and customers will be issued a voucher that can either be used for a cash refund of the deposit or towards their shopping at the store.

Ella Ryan, Environmental Education Officer with Waterford City and County Council welcomed the initiative saying, “it will encourage us all to return single-use plastic bottles and cans, reduce litter and help protect our environment.”

Ella added, “Throughout Waterford retailers are embracing the scheme and have either installed reverse vending machines (RVMs) or will accept undamaged plastic bottles and aluminium cans over the counter.

“We’re delighted to see such commitment from local businesses and this scheme will lead to huge changes in attitudes towards recycling and help support a circular economy, by moving away from the take-make-dispose linear economy, which is clearly unsustainable.”

Tony Murphy of the popular Centra in John’s Park recently installed two reverse vending machines ahead of the new DRS Scheme launching on February 1st  nationwide.

“This initiative will be crucial in changing our attitudes towards recycling, and keeping our street, parks, beaches litter-free and Centra are happy to lead in this environmental initiative.

“Fully redeemable deposits will be placed on plastic bottles and cans, but once they are returned undamaged to any store, the customer can receive the deposit back for a voucher redeemable in the store it was returned to.”

Tony added, “We intend to make the return process as seamless as possible and have installed the reverse vending machines at the entrance of the shop, so even if the bottle or can hasn’t been purchased in our store, customers can pop in, return, recycle and receive a voucher which can be redeemed for cash or used against the value of their shopping.”

The deposit fee will be 15c for containers from 150ml to 500ml and 25c for containers over 500ml and up to three litres.

To find out more about Ireland’s new Deposit Return Scheme visit  https://re-turn.ie/

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Image: Tony Murphy of Murphy’s Centra and Ella Ryan, Waterford City and County Council

By Waterford City & County Council

Connecting Communities Roadshows to showcase the best of Waterford Community Services

Waterford City and County Council, in partnership with community groups and stakeholders, will host a series of Connecting Communities Roadshows throughout the city and county.

The roadshows, which take place from February through to May, will offer local communities the opportunity to engage with the Local Authority and its associated partners.  They will also provide insight and guidance about setting up community groups, sourcing funding for developing community initiatives and how to build a stronger, inclusive, and vibrant place to live.

The initiative is spearheaded by Healthy Waterford and Waterford PPN, in collaboration with organisations such as the Community Safety Partnership, Waterford LEADER Partnership, Waterford Area Partnership, Creative Waterford, HSE, Emergency Services and Waterford Sport Partnership, to name but a few.

Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. Joe Conway welcomed the initiative.  “This series of Connecting Communities Roadshows is a fantastic platform to gain insightful and informative feedback from local communities.

“There is real value in finding out about what communities are doing, and doing well, and how they can be better, from those immersed in those communities.  Shared advice, expertise, resources, and local knowledge are integral for any community to thrive and become more inclusive and welcoming for everyone who lives there.”

Sinéad Breathnach, Senior Executive Officer for Community & Sports with Waterford City and County Council explains, “The premise of these roadshows is the provide respective communities with a chance to engage with community services and to make suggestions as to how we can work together to make communities the best they can be.

“Not only will our partner agencies be in attendance, but there is also advice and insights on hand for those exploring setting up community groups, how to go about it and how to avail of funding streams to develop progressive community initiatives.”

Attendees can also meet with ‘Community Champions’ which will showcase their local services at the roadshows.

Ballysaggart Community Development CLG and its Chairperson, Michael Walsh believes that “staying updated with new and existing opportunities and collaborating with various agencies is crucial for community groups, old or new.

“Networking plays a key role and these one-stop-shops for locals will be of great benefit. We have benefited greatly by collaborating over the last number of years. I encourage all to attend as there will be something for everyone.”

The Connecting Communities Roadshows will take place at Lismore Heritage Centre on February 7th, The Park Hotel, Dungarvan on February 21st, Rainbow Hall, Kilmacthomas on March 6th, Community Hall, Ballymacarbry on March 20th, The Haven Hotel, Dunmore East on April 3rd, Cill Barra Sports Hall, Ballybeg on April 17th and Tramore GAA Community Hall on May 8th.  These events are free to attend and members of the public are invited to call in anytime between 6pm and 8.30pm.

To find out more keep an eye on social media or contact Eoin Morrissey, Community Department Waterford City and County Council at eoin.morrissey@waterfordcouncil.ie or Muriel Tobin, PPN Waterford Coordinator at waterfordppn@gmail.com

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Images:  Free to use – Patrick Brown

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Back row:  Ovi Matiut, Eddie Mulligan, Eoin Morrissey, Dylan White of WCCC, Colin Barden Waterford Fire Service and Paul Deegan Volunteer Centre Waterford.

Front row:  Muriel Tobin Waterford PPN, Mayor of Waterford City and County Cllr. Joe Conway, Sinéad Breathnach and Ella Ryan of WCCC.

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Back row: Aine Whelan WWETB, Teresa Fennell and James O Donoghue Local Link, Liam Quinn Waterford Area Partnership and Nicola Spendlove WCCC

Front row:  Lauren Walsh Kett Waterford Sports Partnership, Mayor of Waterford City and County Cllr. Joe Conway, Sinéad Breathnach WCCC and Tracy McEneaney Waterford Libraries

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Eoin Morrissey, Waterford Healthy City and County Coordinator WCCC, Mayor of Waterford City and County Cllr. Joe Conway and Sinéad Breathnach, Senior Executive Officer for Community and Sports WCCC

By Waterford City & County Council

Public information campaign to build greater awareness of the role of the local Council and Councillors

Minister for Local Government and Planning, Kieran O’Donnell T.D. recently launched the “Your Council” campaign, to provide members of the public with more information about local government and the role of the Councillor.

Minister O’Donnell said, “Local Councils and Councillors play a huge role in shaping communities across the country. They oversee the development of local areas for the benefit of everyone, including the provision of essential services such as housing, recreation, road maintenance, public lighting and footpaths, biodiversity and water quality management. They also play a vital role in local economic development through supports to and engagement with local businesses.

“As the remit of local government and Councillors is so varied, it is hoped that this campaign will encourage greater awareness among the general public of the crucial role played by Councils and Councillors. In particular, the campaign will highlight the Councillors’ role in policymaking, governance and oversight, and as representatives within their local communities.”

Paul Johnston, Acting Director of Services with Waterford City and County Council welcomed the initiative saying the role of local authorities and local Councillors is extensive and multi-faceted.

“Councillors are at the heart of their communities and robustly represent their constituents.  Through their strong local links and interest in their localities, they help bring local issues to the council chamber for address.  Councillors also help to shape policy framework within which the local authority’s executive and employees work.

“Waterford City and County Council is guided by the principles of the City and County Development Plans, Local Economy and Community Plans, national policies and legislation, EU directives and regulations, and increasingly by Climate Action plans and agendas.  Moreover, it is governed by 32 Elected Members, who crucially have a political remit to represent their constituents.”

Paul added, “The Local Authority provides a whole myriad of services such as housing, libraries and fire services, while taking the lead role in economic and social development, managing essential infrastructure and developing and maintaining local amenities and services.  It’s a broad and sometimes challenging remit, but one that our 800-strong staff takes pride in.”

Members of the public are invited to visit www.gov.ie/YourCouncil to find out more about the vital work local Councils and Councillors do, and how important it is to be informed and engaged with local government.

In conclusion Minster O’Donnell said, “I would encourage everyone to engage with the information provided, to visit www.gov.ie/YourCouncil – and indeed engage with the work of local authorities.

“Life in your local area is shaped by the decisions and policies made by your Council and the Councillors you elect to represent your community. While it is of the utmost importance, particularly in a local election year, that we are all fully informed on the important work they do, greater awareness can also allow individuals to become more involved in local government structures and decision making in their local areas.”

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Image credit:  Alan Robinson Photography

Waterford City and County Council Cleansing Crew Kenny O’Regan and Tom Murphy

 

By Waterford City & County Council

Road Safety Weather Alert – Orange and Yellow Weather Warnings for Storm Jocelyn

The Road Safety Authority (RSA) is asking road users to exercise caution while using the roads on Tuesday 23 January and Wednesday 24 January as Met Éireann have issued Orange and Yellow Weather Warnings for Storm Jocelyn which will bring very strong southwest to west winds with severe and damaging gusts.

The Orange Wind Warnings are for Donegal from 6pm Tuesday to 2am Wednesday and for Galway and Mayo from 5pm Tuesday to 12am Wednesday. There will be very strong southwest to west winds with severe and damaging gusts and this has the potential to cause to cause very large coastal waves with wave overtopping, very difficult travelling conditions, fallen trees and damage to power lines and damage to already weakened structures.

The Yellow Wind Warnings are for Donegal, Leitrim and Sligo from 12pm Tuesday to 5am Wednesday and for Clare, Kerry, Galway, Mayo from 10am Tuesday to 2am Wednesday and for Leinster, Cavan, Monaghan, Cork, Limerick, Tipperary, Waterford, Roscommon from 2pm Tuesday to 2am Wednesday where there will be very strong and gusty southwest to west winds with potential impacts of large coastal waves with wave overtopping, difficult travelling conditions and debris, loose objects becoming displaced.

Road users in areas affected by the Orange Warning are advised to check local traffic and weather conditions before setting out on a journey.

The following advice is being given to road users on foot of the weather warnings. Motorists:

  • Drivers need to slow down and allow a greater braking distance between themselves and the vehicle in front in wet weather conditions. This is especially important on high-speed roads such as dual carriageways and motorways where there is increased danger of aquaplaning.
  • Take special care when driving behind goods vehicles, as they generate a considerable amount of spray, which reduces your visibility. Hold back to where you can see their mirrors.
  • If the road ahead is flooded, choose another route. Do not attempt to drive through it. Flooded roads that appear shallow could be deeper than you think. The verge may have subsided and there may also be trees or branches that have fallen that may not be visible.
  • Road users should always follow recommended routes and obey signs closing roads to traffic that have been put there by the local council or An Garda Síochána.
  • After going through water, drive slowly with your foot on the brake pedal for a short distance – this helps to dry the brakes.
  • Be Safe. Be Seen. Drive with dipped headlights at all times to ensure that you are visible and that you can see other road users.
  • Beware of objects being blown out onto the road. Expect the unexpected.
  • Watch out for falling / fallen debris on the road and vehicles veering across the road.
  • Control of a vehicle may be affected by strong cross winds. High-sided vehicles and motorcyclists are particularly vulnerable to strong winds
  • Drivers should allow extra space between themselves and vulnerable road users such as people cycling and motorcyclists as they may be blown off course by strong winds.

Advice to Pedestrians, people cycling, and motorcyclists:

  • Walk on the right-hand side of the road, facing traffic if there are no footpaths.
  • People cycling should ensure that they and their bike are visible to other road users by investing in a good set of front and rear lights (white at the front, red at the back) and by wearing clothes that help you be seen on your bike. Consider wearing high visibility material.
  • Take extra care when crossing the road or cycling in extremely windy conditions, as a sudden gust of wind could blow you into the path of an oncoming vehicle.
  • Be Safe. Be Seen. Visibility and light are reduced in poor weather conditions. Keep safe by making sure you can be seen. Wear bright clothing and consider wearing high visibility material.

For advice on severe weather driving tips, please see severe weather advice on the RSA website or check out the RSA Facebook and Twitter pages.

Please also see our severe weather warning videos created in collaboration with Teresa Mannion here.

See advice for driving on flooded roads here and some advice on driving in strong winds here.

For more weather updates, visit Met Eireann’s website: www.met.ie

By Waterford City & County Council

Landowner to pay clean-up costs for illegal dumping

An elderly landowner was spared a waste management conviction on January 17th at Carrick on Suir District court on the provision he paid €3000 to the Local Authority’s clean-up costs.

Waterford City and County Council took a prosecution against the landowner for facilitating the unauthorised management of construction and demolition waste and soil in a protected area adjacent to the River Suir near Carrick on Suir.

Niall Kane, Senior Executive Engineer with Waterford City and County Council outlined to Judge Brian O’Shea that construction and demolition waste had been dumped on the land which forms part of the Lower River Suir Special Area of Conservation prior to July 2022.

The landowner for the land in question could not be traced, and the land appeared to be abandoned.  However, in August 2022, an adjoining landowner paid a contractor to form an entrance ramp to the land with the waste material to provide an additional access to his adjoining land.

Subsequent to this, Waterford City and County Council undertook a clean-up operation, removing the construction and demolition waste to restore the area to its previous condition.

The adjoining landowner pled guilty to the offence under section 32 of the Waste Management Act, but Judge O’Shea, noting that the defendant had not previously been before the courts, said he would apply the probation act to the landowner and spare him a conviction if he contributed €3,000 to the council’s clean-up costs.

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