TUESDAY, 10 MARCH 2009
Parting shot at Minister as Chambers warns of implications for Newport
Neill O’Neill
COUNCILLOR Frank Chambers attended his last hometown meeting as an elected representative yesterday (Monday), and used the opportunity to call on the County Council not to allow the electoral area division in Newport divide the people of the town.
Cllr Chambers called the re-drawing of the electoral area boundary through the heart of Newport a ‘disgraceful decision by any minister’ and expressed his concern that it could divide the town in that people on either side of the river would now be subject to the workings of different council offices and personnel. Cllr Chambers said the unity that exists among the people of Newport is integral to the local community, and sounded warnings that unless a concerted effort is made to protect this, Newport could end up in a situation like Charlestown and Bellaghy.
“One thing I don’t want to see happening is Newport town itself being divided by these new boundaries,” Cllr Chambers said. “There needs to be a unity among the groups in Newport such as the Tidy Towns and the Newport Development Company. We now have a situation where people will have to meet two separate engineers in order to get anything done on either side of the river, and separate offices will be deciding on funding and what can be done in different parts of Newport, even though it is the same town. The integrity of the town is fundamental and going forward things like planning need to be done for the whole town, and not just for some areas.”
Cllr Chambers used the example of how the river meanders in and out of different council areas as it enters Newport. He said this would lead to a lot of duplication and confusion over, for example, which engineer was in charge of the area and where applications or submissions should be made.
“We do not want to be divided,” he said. “In electoral terms we already are, but the community does not want to be.”
Cllr Margaret Adams agreed with her party colleague and called the redrawing of the boundary through Newport ‘unreasonable’. Cllr John O’Malley went one further and said it was ‘pure mad’ and among the ‘daftest’ things he had ever heard.
“The only thing we can do now is work to keep the town cohesive,” he said, as Cllr Adams called for a liaison officer to be appointed to deal with the issues Cllr Chambers had raised.
The decision to redraw the electoral area boundary through Newport forced Cllr Chambers to opt out of politics, according to Cllr O’Malley, with Cathaoirleach of Westport Town Council, Cllr Martin Keane, describing the decision as an ‘absolute disgrace’. Cllr Keane wished Cllr Chambers and his wife and family all the best for the future, and thanked him for his service to the Westport area over the past 30 years. These sentiments were echoed around the table, with Cllr Austin Francis O’Malley saying that he found it difficult to believe that Mayo had seen the end of Frank Chambers’ political career.
Director of Services in the Westport Electoral Area, Mr Peter Hynes, said that there were some advantages to the boundary change, adding that Newport would now have eight councillors with money to spend rather than four. He said that Mayo County Council is very aware of the need for integration in Newport and is keen to preserve it
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Sunday, March 29, 2009
Hammered woman didn't hammer TD
Hammered woman didn't hammer TD
Athlone Advertiser, March 27, 2009.
By Finian Coghlan
A woman who attempted to assault Deputy Mary O'Rourke with an inflatable hammer on the reviewing stand of the St Patrick's Day parade had her case adjourned until early next month, at the District Court this week (March 25).
“F**k Fianna Fail and f**k the recession,” she was alleged to have shouted at the TD in her abortive attempt at some sort of political protest in front of a host of the town's dignitaries at the platform on the town bridge last Tuesday week.
The woman, a local in her fifties, has been charged with one public order offence on foot of her alleged drunken behaviour.
She appeared briefly in the District Court on Wednesday to hear Judge Elizabeth McGrath adjourn the hearing of her case until April 8 after the defendant's solicitor Paul Connellan told the court a medical certificate had not yet been completed on his client.
“It was one of the funniest things I ever saw,” said one of the people sharing the platform.
Athlone Advertiser, March 27, 2009.
By Finian Coghlan
A woman who attempted to assault Deputy Mary O'Rourke with an inflatable hammer on the reviewing stand of the St Patrick's Day parade had her case adjourned until early next month, at the District Court this week (March 25).
“F**k Fianna Fail and f**k the recession,” she was alleged to have shouted at the TD in her abortive attempt at some sort of political protest in front of a host of the town's dignitaries at the platform on the town bridge last Tuesday week.
The woman, a local in her fifties, has been charged with one public order offence on foot of her alleged drunken behaviour.
She appeared briefly in the District Court on Wednesday to hear Judge Elizabeth McGrath adjourn the hearing of her case until April 8 after the defendant's solicitor Paul Connellan told the court a medical certificate had not yet been completed on his client.
“It was one of the funniest things I ever saw,” said one of the people sharing the platform.
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
Campaigner welcomes Minister Maloney’s speech
Campaigner welcomes Minister Maloney’s speech
Dear editor
The Centre for Independent Living (CIL) Carmichael House launched, its
Strategic Plan (2009-2014) by Mr. John Moloney TD for Equality, Disability and Mental Health along with the DVD of Strasbourg Freedom Drive (2007) in the Park Inn Hotel on Saturday 31st January 2009. Proinsias De Rossa, MEP and Mary Lou McDonald, MEP both attended the launch and described the Strasbourg Freedom Drive campaign as the most effective lobbying campaigns targeting the EU Parliament.
Mr. Moloney stated in his opening speech that he would like to “reassure people with disabilities that their services and rights will not be hit even though we are facing very difficult times” He confirmed that he specifically would not be using the line of economic downturn in relation to disability sector. This was warmly welcomed by Disability Campaigner Tom Chambers Newport Co Mayo.
Chairperson of CIL. Michael McCabe highlighted the concerns of disabled people in relation to the cutbacks. “The disability sector in Ireland in the last number of years made some progress and the quality of services provided improved significantly. This must be protected despite the worsening economic climate” He also said that he was pleased that Ireland has signed the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and hoped that its ratification and implementation will be supported by all parties.
The Minister invited CIL Carmichael House to put Direct Payments on the agenda for the quarterly meetings he committed to direct payments are cash paid to individuals to enable them to employ, either directly or indirectly, individuals to assist them with their everyday tasks. This system proved to be a very efficient way of Personal Assistance (PA) service delivery in the UK and Sweden. Ireland still does not have legislation on this. Minister Moloney said that he is fully supporting the area of Direct Payments and recognizes that several savings can be made by implication of this.
“Politicians are not experts on disability, people with disabilities are,” said Ms. McDonald. “So continue planning, strategizing and raising voices at your campaigns.”
“In the current economic climate we are all going to take a hit one way or the other,” said Mr. De Rossa. “However people with disabilities should not be expected to pay the price.”
Finally, Mr. Chambers informed MEPs that attended the launch of the 2009 Strategic plan that the Strasbourg Freedom Drive 2009 which will be coordinated by Ireland supported from Germany the date is set for the week of 9th September. He also will be making contact with his local MEPs.
Yours truly,
Tom Chambers
Disability Campaigner
The Billy Ranch
Newport
Co Mayo
Is this more promises said Tom Chambers
HOME News €150,000 Mill Street
€150,000 Mill Street
Monday, 16 March 2009
€150,000 Mill Street upgrade should get under way shortly
Neill O’Neill
PLANS are at an advanced stage to revamp Westport’s longest street, in a project that will cost upwards of €150,000.
Work should begin as soon as the public consultation period of six weeks is finished, and the aim of the project will be to bring Mill Street in line with other streets in the town, with projected tree bays, street crossings and general upgrade works to footpaths and kerbing.
Westport Town Architect, Simon Wall, told last week’s monthly meeting of Westport Town Council that there will be three raised street crossings as part of the plan – in front of Paddy Powers, in front of the new physiotherapy practice and in front of the Tidy Towns monument on The Fairgreen. There will be projected tree bays at a number of locations, including at the Mill Times Hotel, Herterich’s Butchers and Navin’s Funeral Home, to name a few. Two loading bays will be in place, one either side of the entrance to the hotel car park, while the work will mean the loss of six car-parking spaces.
However, Mr Wall also stated that parking spaces will be lined out on the street which will make for even more spaces than currently exist, and could negate the number of spaces lost to as low as one. Upgrades to kerbing and footpaths, including disability works, will also form part of the project, though the level of the street surface will not be raised. The trees used in the project will be among the biggest semi-mature trees ever brought into Ireland.
Another feature of the works will be the continuation of the footpath in front of the car-parking spaces at The Fairgreen, which will be marked out by a different colour surface, and should eliminate the practice of double-parking in the area.
Cllr Dave Keating, who has long campaigned for Mill Street to be upgraded, said he would not be complaining about this kind of investment, but called for the parking spaces outside the Grove Medical Centre to remain, and for the wishes of the residents to be part of the plan.
There were also calls to ensure that safety was the priority and not aesthetics, and Cllr Declan Dever asked that car-parking also be facilitated outside the pharmacy on Mill Street.
Cllr Tereasa McGuire questioned the wisdom of placing a loading bay outside private houses, and said she had reservations about the area around the clock where Mill Street, High Street, Bridge Street and Shop Street converge. Cllr Brendan Mulroy agreed with this assessment, saying the clock area needs to be re-negotiated as part of this proposal. He suggested re-opening the avenue at the back of the clock to free up traffic.
Westport Town Manager, Mr Peter Hynes, said that while the practicality and safety concerns of the proposal were key concerns, he would make no apology for considering the beauty of the town as an important part of this plan.
“A lot of the commerce of this town is dependent on its pretty image,” he stated
€150,000 Mill Street
Monday, 16 March 2009
€150,000 Mill Street upgrade should get under way shortly
Neill O’Neill
PLANS are at an advanced stage to revamp Westport’s longest street, in a project that will cost upwards of €150,000.
Work should begin as soon as the public consultation period of six weeks is finished, and the aim of the project will be to bring Mill Street in line with other streets in the town, with projected tree bays, street crossings and general upgrade works to footpaths and kerbing.
Westport Town Architect, Simon Wall, told last week’s monthly meeting of Westport Town Council that there will be three raised street crossings as part of the plan – in front of Paddy Powers, in front of the new physiotherapy practice and in front of the Tidy Towns monument on The Fairgreen. There will be projected tree bays at a number of locations, including at the Mill Times Hotel, Herterich’s Butchers and Navin’s Funeral Home, to name a few. Two loading bays will be in place, one either side of the entrance to the hotel car park, while the work will mean the loss of six car-parking spaces.
However, Mr Wall also stated that parking spaces will be lined out on the street which will make for even more spaces than currently exist, and could negate the number of spaces lost to as low as one. Upgrades to kerbing and footpaths, including disability works, will also form part of the project, though the level of the street surface will not be raised. The trees used in the project will be among the biggest semi-mature trees ever brought into Ireland.
Another feature of the works will be the continuation of the footpath in front of the car-parking spaces at The Fairgreen, which will be marked out by a different colour surface, and should eliminate the practice of double-parking in the area.
Cllr Dave Keating, who has long campaigned for Mill Street to be upgraded, said he would not be complaining about this kind of investment, but called for the parking spaces outside the Grove Medical Centre to remain, and for the wishes of the residents to be part of the plan.
There were also calls to ensure that safety was the priority and not aesthetics, and Cllr Declan Dever asked that car-parking also be facilitated outside the pharmacy on Mill Street.
Cllr Tereasa McGuire questioned the wisdom of placing a loading bay outside private houses, and said she had reservations about the area around the clock where Mill Street, High Street, Bridge Street and Shop Street converge. Cllr Brendan Mulroy agreed with this assessment, saying the clock area needs to be re-negotiated as part of this proposal. He suggested re-opening the avenue at the back of the clock to free up traffic.
Westport Town Manager, Mr Peter Hynes, said that while the practicality and safety concerns of the proposal were key concerns, he would make no apology for considering the beauty of the town as an important part of this plan.
“A lot of the commerce of this town is dependent on its pretty image,” he stated
Sunday, March 22, 2009
With the upbeat campaign message and song of "Things can only get better!" Labour's Cllr Keith Martin is hoping to make a historic breakthrough in south-west Mayo and take one of the four seats in the Westport Electoral Area.
But campaigning in an area as big as County Louth is no easy task, especially when one considers the number of boreens, bog roads and back roads than Cllr Martin must travel up to meet the those thousands of elusive voters who do not live in the towns and villages of west Mayo
So to allow him to meet the electorate in a bit of comfort and privacy Cllr Martin has converted a small caravan into a mobile clinic which travels the electoral area allowing him to work from his office-no matter where he is.
"It was a case of Mohammad going to meet the mountain as this is one of the largest electoral areas in the country and my constituents are spread out from the town of Westport out to Clew Bay and Clare Island, down to the boarder with County Galway and back up to Westport. This mobile clinic allows me to meet people in comfort and privacy. Its also great for my canvassers and I to have a base to operate from."
The caravan is decked out with Labour Party logos and Cllr Martin's website and contact details, and inside it is kitted out with a gas stove and sink, shelves of books and application forms and a desk for paperwork and a laptop.
"Its not super high tech but we do have Sat-Nav, wireless broadband and tea and coffee facilities on board and I use the shower room as a soundproof area to use the phone for my radio interviews and when discussing sensitive or confidential issues. Its not Air Force One but it does the job. In fact, we call the caravan Labour Force One and it's getting a great reaction from the public who often wave or give a honk on the car-horn when we pass by."
In addition to setting up shop in villages and on the side of the road Cllr Martin is taking his clinic to every church in the area to maximise the number of voters he can meet before polling day on June 5th. From a speaker system in the towing car Cllr Martin addresses a crowd wherever he can find them and when on the road the speakers blare out the 1990s hit "Things can only get better!" by D:Ream.
A Town Councillor in Westport for the past five years Cllr Martin is ready to take the step up to Mayo County Council and while very familiar with the challenges faced by towns like Westport he is very aware of the rural issues like broadband, clean water and housing.
"Working on my Uncle's farm I know what it is to milk cows, cut and save hay and turf and even to help make butter in a plunge churn. I know that farming in Mayo is hard work for little return and that cattle and sheep farmers are hurting since the last budget. The issues are those of jobs, housing and basics like water, roads and broadband.
"Tip O'Neil once said that 'All politics is local' and I believe the same can be said for economics. I believe that we need to fight the recession at a local level here in Mayo and I am ready to lead that fight. Already I have proposed a three point plan for businesses of Rates freezes, Rent reductions and Rates rebates for start up businesses which will keep people in work and help to create new jobs and opportunities. We also need Mayo County Council to start work on a new N5 link to Mullingar."
Once elected Cllr Martin has given a commitment to keep his mobile clinic on the road so that voters will see as much of him after he's elected as they did before.
"I think the message has to be one of hope. People are tired of recrimination and blame and we all know who is responsible for putting us in this mess. My message is one of hard work and hope. I believe if we're positive, if we work together then things can only get better!"
Contact:
Keith Martin
086 0691182 Mobile
098 24852 Office
www.thingscanonlygetbetter.ie
But campaigning in an area as big as County Louth is no easy task, especially when one considers the number of boreens, bog roads and back roads than Cllr Martin must travel up to meet the those thousands of elusive voters who do not live in the towns and villages of west Mayo
So to allow him to meet the electorate in a bit of comfort and privacy Cllr Martin has converted a small caravan into a mobile clinic which travels the electoral area allowing him to work from his office-no matter where he is.
"It was a case of Mohammad going to meet the mountain as this is one of the largest electoral areas in the country and my constituents are spread out from the town of Westport out to Clew Bay and Clare Island, down to the boarder with County Galway and back up to Westport. This mobile clinic allows me to meet people in comfort and privacy. Its also great for my canvassers and I to have a base to operate from."
The caravan is decked out with Labour Party logos and Cllr Martin's website and contact details, and inside it is kitted out with a gas stove and sink, shelves of books and application forms and a desk for paperwork and a laptop.
"Its not super high tech but we do have Sat-Nav, wireless broadband and tea and coffee facilities on board and I use the shower room as a soundproof area to use the phone for my radio interviews and when discussing sensitive or confidential issues. Its not Air Force One but it does the job. In fact, we call the caravan Labour Force One and it's getting a great reaction from the public who often wave or give a honk on the car-horn when we pass by."
In addition to setting up shop in villages and on the side of the road Cllr Martin is taking his clinic to every church in the area to maximise the number of voters he can meet before polling day on June 5th. From a speaker system in the towing car Cllr Martin addresses a crowd wherever he can find them and when on the road the speakers blare out the 1990s hit "Things can only get better!" by D:Ream.
A Town Councillor in Westport for the past five years Cllr Martin is ready to take the step up to Mayo County Council and while very familiar with the challenges faced by towns like Westport he is very aware of the rural issues like broadband, clean water and housing.
"Working on my Uncle's farm I know what it is to milk cows, cut and save hay and turf and even to help make butter in a plunge churn. I know that farming in Mayo is hard work for little return and that cattle and sheep farmers are hurting since the last budget. The issues are those of jobs, housing and basics like water, roads and broadband.
"Tip O'Neil once said that 'All politics is local' and I believe the same can be said for economics. I believe that we need to fight the recession at a local level here in Mayo and I am ready to lead that fight. Already I have proposed a three point plan for businesses of Rates freezes, Rent reductions and Rates rebates for start up businesses which will keep people in work and help to create new jobs and opportunities. We also need Mayo County Council to start work on a new N5 link to Mullingar."
Once elected Cllr Martin has given a commitment to keep his mobile clinic on the road so that voters will see as much of him after he's elected as they did before.
"I think the message has to be one of hope. People are tired of recrimination and blame and we all know who is responsible for putting us in this mess. My message is one of hard work and hope. I believe if we're positive, if we work together then things can only get better!"
Contact:
Keith Martin
086 0691182 Mobile
098 24852 Office
www.thingscanonlygetbetter.ie
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Castlebar gardaí warn of zero tolerance over
Castlebar gardaí warn of zero tolerance over
Mayo Advertiser, March 13, 2009.
A 31 per cent increase in the number of people failing breath tests over the month of February in County Mayo, shows the battle against drink-driving is never ending. If St Patrick's Day revellers decide to drive drunk, they had better have more than the 'luck of the Irish' to cover the financial consequences of a drunk driving arrest. A campaign is being launched in Mayo which will tie into the Road Safety Authority’s message to “Never, ever, drink and drive”.
“Twenty-nine is an unacceptably high figure, and we are disappointed that so many people have risked their own and other people's safety by getting behind the wheel while over the limit,” said Noel Gibbons, road safety officer for Mayo County Council.
“Because St Patrick's Day is a notorious drinking holiday, we are launching an aggressive campaign to address drunk and other dangerous driving behaviour that puts our families at risk,” said Sergeant Joe McKenna, Castlebar Garda headquarters.
“Rest assured that in the coming year we will continue our efforts to educate motorists to the dangers of drink-driving, as well as enforcing the law. Everyone is being given ample warning that there will be zero tolerance for those caught getting behind the wheel after having too much to drink.”
Mayo Advertiser, March 13, 2009.
A 31 per cent increase in the number of people failing breath tests over the month of February in County Mayo, shows the battle against drink-driving is never ending. If St Patrick's Day revellers decide to drive drunk, they had better have more than the 'luck of the Irish' to cover the financial consequences of a drunk driving arrest. A campaign is being launched in Mayo which will tie into the Road Safety Authority’s message to “Never, ever, drink and drive”.
“Twenty-nine is an unacceptably high figure, and we are disappointed that so many people have risked their own and other people's safety by getting behind the wheel while over the limit,” said Noel Gibbons, road safety officer for Mayo County Council.
“Because St Patrick's Day is a notorious drinking holiday, we are launching an aggressive campaign to address drunk and other dangerous driving behaviour that puts our families at risk,” said Sergeant Joe McKenna, Castlebar Garda headquarters.
“Rest assured that in the coming year we will continue our efforts to educate motorists to the dangers of drink-driving, as well as enforcing the law. Everyone is being given ample warning that there will be zero tolerance for those caught getting behind the wheel after having too much to drink.”
Division of Newport into two electoral areas is ‘crazy stuff’
Westport area briefs
Mayo Advertiser, March 13, 2009.
By Geraldine Carr
Division of Newport into two electoral areas is ‘crazy stuff’
With the last Westport area meeting in Newport, due to the change in electoral boundaries, Fianna Fáil councillor Frank Chambers commented that it was “crazy stuff” that half of Newport would fall under the Belmullet Electoral Area, before he added that it was a “disgraceful decision” and said that “the unity of the town” needed to be maintained as Newport “does not want to be a divided community”.
Party colleague Cllr Margaret Adams said that the decision was “off the wall” and “totally unreasonable”, before she commended Cllr Chambers for his hard work representing Newport over the past 30 years.
Fine Gael councillor John O’Malley said that it was an “unfair decision” which forced Cllr Chambers to opt out of politics and wished Cllr Chambers and his family well in the future, while Cllr Martin Keane said that what happened to Cllr Chambers in his own electoral area was “a disgrace”.
Houses and grants delayed due to lack of funding
Martin Keating, executive housing officer, outlined that the Kilmeena housing units and community centre is progressing, but that the Killeen project is delayed as there was still no capital allocation given from the department. This allocation also affected the provision of housing grant funding.
Cllr John O’Malley said that he was bombarded with people contacting him every day about the essential repairs grants, with many submitting their application a year ago and still awaiting a response. The Fine Gael councillor said that it was ironic that the “green Minister” has announced €100 million for insulation, where every “Tom Dick and Harry” whose house was built before 1996 without a means test can apply, yet the old and vulnerable cannot get their windows and door replaced with the essential repairs grants.
Fianna Fáil councillor Adams said that it was important to focus on what has been done, with many looked after by the mobility grants, and Cllr Adams said that she looks forward to second round of funding for maintenance grants.
Mr Keating explained that at present there is some €2 million worth of housing grant approvals and until the council receives an allocation, expected after the forthcoming budget, further work will not be approved.
Councillors disappointed with Westport United’s planning refusal
The recent decision by An Bord Pleanála to turn down a planning application for Westport United’s new pitch, which was raised at the meeting by Cathaoirleach of the town Councillor Martin Keane, led to councillors offering their support to the club if needed and condemning the decision as “disappointing”.
Cllr Adams said that both town and area councillors had pledged money to upgrade the road leading to the ground if a planning decision was granted and that with the “disappointing decision” the doors are still open to Westport United if they need further assistance.
Her party colleague Cllr Chambers said that this decision was a disappointment for the community’s needs, and that with the draft development plan of the town being reviewed the needs of the community must be taken on board with greater focus on quality of life of people.
Fine Gael councillor John O’Malley said that he was “absolutely devastated “by the news and couldn’t understand the mentality of stopping a sports group from being developed, while Cllr Austin Francis O’Malley said that the turning down of the development resulted in the stagnation of other projects in the area.
Childcare facility for Louisburgh
Cllr Austin Francis O’Malley welcomed the news that disposal of land at Ard Caher, Louisburgh, would enable a childcare project— which has capital funding and planning permission to construct such facilities.
Road reconstructed in Newport
Engineer Michael Lyons told area members that the regional road R311 in the townlands of Clooneshill and Cuilemore, Newport would be realigned and reconstructed for 790 metres towards Newport, with the acquisition of land from three landowners.
Cllr Chambers said there should be a verge in the road to allow people to walk or cycle on it. Cllr Adams concurred that all new roads should have walk or cycle lanes
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
Newport will have one voice
Cllr Keith Martin says Newport will have a strong voice in Mayo County Council when he is elected to Mayo County Council in June. Cllr Martin made his comments when wishing outgoing Newport County Councillor Frank Chambers a "happy and restful retirement" following Cllr Chamber's decision to bow out of politics after 30 years of service.
Cllr Keith Martin pledged that he will hold clinics on "both sides of the Black Oak River" to ensure that Newport's issues are addressed and raised in Mayo County Council following Cllr Chamber's departure.
According to Cllr Martin "I will represent the people of Newport town from the river to Furnace whether or not they can vote for me in June. It defies logic and common sense to include Newport in the Belmullet Electoral Area. Newport and Westport are only miles apart and for Newport's administration to be based out of Belmullet 60 miles away makes no sense. It was a lazy way for the Electoral Boundaries Commission to solve a problem for the Belmullet Electoral Area at the expense of the people of Newport.
"Newport is the social and community centre for a large area on both sides of the river and I will ensure that Newport is serviced effectively by Mayo County Council and that the voice of Newport from Meddicott Street to Knocknageeha is heard as one voice in the chamber of Mayo County Council, and not two.
"I will be holding clinics in the coming weeks in Newport and I expect these to be well attended by people from both sides of the river and they will be most welcome. There will be no discrimination based on a silly decision from Dublin!"
086 0691182
Cllr Keith Martin pledged that he will hold clinics on "both sides of the Black Oak River" to ensure that Newport's issues are addressed and raised in Mayo County Council following Cllr Chamber's departure.
According to Cllr Martin "I will represent the people of Newport town from the river to Furnace whether or not they can vote for me in June. It defies logic and common sense to include Newport in the Belmullet Electoral Area. Newport and Westport are only miles apart and for Newport's administration to be based out of Belmullet 60 miles away makes no sense. It was a lazy way for the Electoral Boundaries Commission to solve a problem for the Belmullet Electoral Area at the expense of the people of Newport.
"Newport is the social and community centre for a large area on both sides of the river and I will ensure that Newport is serviced effectively by Mayo County Council and that the voice of Newport from Meddicott Street to Knocknageeha is heard as one voice in the chamber of Mayo County Council, and not two.
"I will be holding clinics in the coming weeks in Newport and I expect these to be well attended by people from both sides of the river and they will be most welcome. There will be no discrimination based on a silly decision from Dublin!"
086 0691182
Tuesday, February 03, 2009
Right to read
Right to read
Increased library opening hours, a literacy programme aimed at young parents and their children and council-backed homework clubs are just some of the measures being proposed by Labour's Cllr Keith Martin to tackle illiteracy and to promote reading in Mayo.
Cllr Keith Martin, who is a Branch Librarian at Westport Library, is backing "The Right to Read campaign" which is directed towards education in the community and uses the resources of Local Authorities to back up vital literacy programmes like Homework Clubs, Home-Reading initiatives and Public Libraries. The campaign is backed by the children's charity Barnardos, unions SIPTU, INTO, TUI, ASTI and the National Adult Literacy Agency.
Cllr Martin says "Children who go to primary school, must 'Learn to Read so that they Read to Learn' when they move up to secondary school. According to the latest Census figures 19% of secondary students in Mayo drop out of school when they reach 15 or after their junior certificate. Many, but not all, do so because they have difficulty with reading and writing.
"Nationally there are at least half a million adults that are functionally illiterate. Many of these people are doomed to low incomes or long term unemployment, especially in the current economy. We must work to eliminate illiteracy and to create an literate and confident society and workforce.
"Also there are huge personal benefits to reading, for example reading stimulates the mind (unlike television), reading improves our vocabulary, concentration, focus and memory and allows us to develop our creativity. In addition to this its great fun, whether its escapism in good novel or a DIY or cookery book to help us around the home.
Cllr Martin concludes "I am committed to implementing the Right to Read programme when I am elected to Mayo County Council. We must make sure that no child or adult is left behind, we must also ensure that everyone learns to read, for education and for fun. Libraries offer great value for money, with free membership for children up to 18 and a maximum annual membership cost of just €3. For that you get to borrow five books, CDs, DVDs for free, free internet access and access to a huge amount of reference and support materials. The Right to Read campaign aims to highlight these opportunities and to promote literacy and the enjoyment of reading in Mayo."
CORE Initiatives
Increase library opening hours, especially in the evenings after school.
Ensure that all libraries publish community outreach plans and work with schools and community groups to maximise participation in library activities amongst all age groups.
Increase the number of activities in libraries to promote reading.
Expand the mobile library service.
Encourage literacy amongst young parents with the promotion of 'Baby Books Bundle' by the library service.
Encourage all Local Authorities to establish Right to Read Committees involving elected members and appropriate officers from council management.
'Family Learning through Football' courses (Sunderland F.C. model) encouraging positive parenting and family literacy through sport in association with sporting organisations run in council community centres.
A greater volume of multi-lingual textbooks in our library service.
A greater roll out of schemes like the 'Beano Comic Initiative' as sponsored by Dublin City Council across the country
Increased library opening hours, a literacy programme aimed at young parents and their children and council-backed homework clubs are just some of the measures being proposed by Labour's Cllr Keith Martin to tackle illiteracy and to promote reading in Mayo.
Cllr Keith Martin, who is a Branch Librarian at Westport Library, is backing "The Right to Read campaign" which is directed towards education in the community and uses the resources of Local Authorities to back up vital literacy programmes like Homework Clubs, Home-Reading initiatives and Public Libraries. The campaign is backed by the children's charity Barnardos, unions SIPTU, INTO, TUI, ASTI and the National Adult Literacy Agency.
Cllr Martin says "Children who go to primary school, must 'Learn to Read so that they Read to Learn' when they move up to secondary school. According to the latest Census figures 19% of secondary students in Mayo drop out of school when they reach 15 or after their junior certificate. Many, but not all, do so because they have difficulty with reading and writing.
"Nationally there are at least half a million adults that are functionally illiterate. Many of these people are doomed to low incomes or long term unemployment, especially in the current economy. We must work to eliminate illiteracy and to create an literate and confident society and workforce.
"Also there are huge personal benefits to reading, for example reading stimulates the mind (unlike television), reading improves our vocabulary, concentration, focus and memory and allows us to develop our creativity. In addition to this its great fun, whether its escapism in good novel or a DIY or cookery book to help us around the home.
Cllr Martin concludes "I am committed to implementing the Right to Read programme when I am elected to Mayo County Council. We must make sure that no child or adult is left behind, we must also ensure that everyone learns to read, for education and for fun. Libraries offer great value for money, with free membership for children up to 18 and a maximum annual membership cost of just €3. For that you get to borrow five books, CDs, DVDs for free, free internet access and access to a huge amount of reference and support materials. The Right to Read campaign aims to highlight these opportunities and to promote literacy and the enjoyment of reading in Mayo."
CORE Initiatives
Increase library opening hours, especially in the evenings after school.
Ensure that all libraries publish community outreach plans and work with schools and community groups to maximise participation in library activities amongst all age groups.
Increase the number of activities in libraries to promote reading.
Expand the mobile library service.
Encourage literacy amongst young parents with the promotion of 'Baby Books Bundle' by the library service.
Encourage all Local Authorities to establish Right to Read Committees involving elected members and appropriate officers from council management.
'Family Learning through Football' courses (Sunderland F.C. model) encouraging positive parenting and family literacy through sport in association with sporting organisations run in council community centres.
A greater volume of multi-lingual textbooks in our library service.
A greater roll out of schemes like the 'Beano Comic Initiative' as sponsored by Dublin City Council across the country
Friday, January 30, 2009
AN insurance company had made allegations of fraud against a man left paraplegic in a road accident when there was no evidence to sustain the claims, a judge said yesterday.
Mr Justice John Quirke made the remark in the High Court after Quinn Direct withdrew claims that John Deegan (45), of Fortlawn Park, Clonsilla, Dublin, had sustained his injuries in a fall from a third- storey balcony in the Ballymun flats and not as a result of the road accident, as Mr Deegan had claimed. The judge said it was a "very serious" matter that such grave allegations were made in open court by "a very substantial and well-resourced company" when there was no evidence to support them and at a time when the company had in its possession a garda report stating there was no such evidence.
Des O'Neill, for Quinn Direct, said the allegation was made arising from false reports by others, including a report concerning a fall from a balcony.
The company now accepted the injuries sustained by Mr Deegan could not have resulted from a balcony fall, counsel said.
After exchanges between counsel and the judge yesterday, the insurance company withdrew all claims of fraud in the case but is also insisting Mr Deegan must fully prove all the facts of the road accident.
Mr Justice Quirke said he would not permit the company to allege fraud without providing specific particulars of that claim. Nor would he allow the company to reserve its position and see what emerged from the evidence. Mr Deegan is paraplegic and has a range of other severe injuries requiring full-time care for the rest of his life, the court heard.
He says these injuries were sustained after the car in which he was travelling as a passenger went out of control while travelling at speed on St Margaret's Road, Ballymun, on the night of November 5, 2001 and ended up overturned in a field close to the Ballymun flats.
Counsel for Mr Deegan said they had just yesterday received a crucial document from Quinn The action is expected to last several weeks
Mr Justice John Quirke made the remark in the High Court after Quinn Direct withdrew claims that John Deegan (45), of Fortlawn Park, Clonsilla, Dublin, had sustained his injuries in a fall from a third- storey balcony in the Ballymun flats and not as a result of the road accident, as Mr Deegan had claimed. The judge said it was a "very serious" matter that such grave allegations were made in open court by "a very substantial and well-resourced company" when there was no evidence to support them and at a time when the company had in its possession a garda report stating there was no such evidence.
Des O'Neill, for Quinn Direct, said the allegation was made arising from false reports by others, including a report concerning a fall from a balcony.
The company now accepted the injuries sustained by Mr Deegan could not have resulted from a balcony fall, counsel said.
After exchanges between counsel and the judge yesterday, the insurance company withdrew all claims of fraud in the case but is also insisting Mr Deegan must fully prove all the facts of the road accident.
Mr Justice Quirke said he would not permit the company to allege fraud without providing specific particulars of that claim. Nor would he allow the company to reserve its position and see what emerged from the evidence. Mr Deegan is paraplegic and has a range of other severe injuries requiring full-time care for the rest of his life, the court heard.
He says these injuries were sustained after the car in which he was travelling as a passenger went out of control while travelling at speed on St Margaret's Road, Ballymun, on the night of November 5, 2001 and ended up overturned in a field close to the Ballymun flats.
Counsel for Mr Deegan said they had just yesterday received a crucial document from Quinn The action is expected to last several weeks
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Mulranny road collision
French national appears in court charged with causing fatal Mulranny road collision
Neill O’Neill
ON the same day – last Thursday – that 25-year-old Yvonne Moran from Rosturk was laid to rest in her native village of Mulranny, a 27-year-old French national appeared in Westport District Court charged with dangerous driving causing her death.
Mr Remi Duclos appeared before Judge Mary Devins charged contrary to Section 53(1) of the Road Traffic Act (as amended) 1961. He was bailed on his own bond of €750 to appear in court again on November 6. Gardaí requested this time to complete their investigations into the accident.
The court was told Mr Duclos, who has an address listed at 3 The Courtyard, Park Inn Hotel, Mulranny, remains in temporary employment at the hotel.
He was granted legal aid and told that he must sign on in Westport Garda Station once a week until his next court appearance.
Ms Moran died in Mayo General Hospital at 9.20pm on Monday, September 15 last, less than 24 hours after she was injured in a collision at Rosgalive, outside Mulranny village, one mile from her home.
Judge Mary Devins offered her sympathy, and that of the court, to Ms Moran’s family, and to An Garda Síochána, of which the deceased was a member based in Ballymote Co Sligo.
Neill O’Neill
ON the same day – last Thursday – that 25-year-old Yvonne Moran from Rosturk was laid to rest in her native village of Mulranny, a 27-year-old French national appeared in Westport District Court charged with dangerous driving causing her death.
Mr Remi Duclos appeared before Judge Mary Devins charged contrary to Section 53(1) of the Road Traffic Act (as amended) 1961. He was bailed on his own bond of €750 to appear in court again on November 6. Gardaí requested this time to complete their investigations into the accident.
The court was told Mr Duclos, who has an address listed at 3 The Courtyard, Park Inn Hotel, Mulranny, remains in temporary employment at the hotel.
He was granted legal aid and told that he must sign on in Westport Garda Station once a week until his next court appearance.
Ms Moran died in Mayo General Hospital at 9.20pm on Monday, September 15 last, less than 24 hours after she was injured in a collision at Rosgalive, outside Mulranny village, one mile from her home.
Judge Mary Devins offered her sympathy, and that of the court, to Ms Moran’s family, and to An Garda Síochána, of which the deceased was a member based in Ballymote Co Sligo.
Sunday, December 14, 2008
Westport Town Council
Westport Town Council has called on the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources, Eamon Ryan TD to protect the Cregganbaun and Doolough region from mining.
A motion proposed by Labour's Cllr Keith Martin and supported by Sinn Fein's Cllr Dave Keating was adopted unanimously by the council at this week's December meeting of Westport Town Council.
In the resolution the area is described as one of "great national and international significance as an environmentally sensitive, culturally and religiously important area" and highlighted the intrinsic value of the area as a tourism feature.
The resolution also lends its support to the concerns of local groups opposed to the Mining.
Speaking on the motion Cllr Martin said that the motion spoke for itself adding that he believed that the proposed for a small scale "seven dwarf type mine" was a front for the introduction of whole scale mining in the area. Cllr Dave Keating said that the proposal by the mining company was for a tourism mine which he described as an Oxymoron.
At the request of Cllr Martin a copy of the resolution is being sent by Westport's Town Clerk to Minister Ryan.
a) That this Council, whilst welcoming sustainable and environmentally friendly development, industry and the harnessing of natural resources, which leads to job creation and investment in and around Westport, shares the concerns of the interested parties such as Mayo Environmental Group and Westport Tourism Organisation in relation to the proposal to mine for gold in the Cregganbaun and Doolough region and calls upon the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources, Eamon Ryan TD to protect this area of great national and international significance as an environmentally sensitive, culturally and religiously important area with a massive intrinsic tourism value.
A motion proposed by Labour's Cllr Keith Martin and supported by Sinn Fein's Cllr Dave Keating was adopted unanimously by the council at this week's December meeting of Westport Town Council.
In the resolution the area is described as one of "great national and international significance as an environmentally sensitive, culturally and religiously important area" and highlighted the intrinsic value of the area as a tourism feature.
The resolution also lends its support to the concerns of local groups opposed to the Mining.
Speaking on the motion Cllr Martin said that the motion spoke for itself adding that he believed that the proposed for a small scale "seven dwarf type mine" was a front for the introduction of whole scale mining in the area. Cllr Dave Keating said that the proposal by the mining company was for a tourism mine which he described as an Oxymoron.
At the request of Cllr Martin a copy of the resolution is being sent by Westport's Town Clerk to Minister Ryan.
a) That this Council, whilst welcoming sustainable and environmentally friendly development, industry and the harnessing of natural resources, which leads to job creation and investment in and around Westport, shares the concerns of the interested parties such as Mayo Environmental Group and Westport Tourism Organisation in relation to the proposal to mine for gold in the Cregganbaun and Doolough region and calls upon the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources, Eamon Ryan TD to protect this area of great national and international significance as an environmentally sensitive, culturally and religiously important area with a massive intrinsic tourism value.
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Councillors walk out of Ballina meeting
Councillors walk out of Ballina meeting
TUESDAY, 11 NOVEMBER 2008
Councillors walk out of Ballina Parkside residents’ meeting
Anna-Marie Flynn
TWO town councillors dramatically walked out of a meeting between Clúid Housing Association and Ballina’s Parkside Residents’ Committee last week in a move described as ‘totally and completely unprofessional’.
In the latest twist in the proposed €11.5 million regeneration project, an update meeting between residents and Clúid personnel became heated after an initial question and answer session, during which residents queried issues raised at a Council meeting of October 15 last, Cllr Mary Kelly suggested the format was not appropriate.
During the session, the frustration of residents was relayed with one tenant going so far as to walk out of the meeting amid claims he was ‘fed up with constant promises’.
Cllr Kelly told Residents’ Chairperson Jean Brown: “You need to start looking forward and not back. This format is not going to work, with people going back on things that have been said before. It’s time to move forward and try and overcome this,” she said.
Ms Brown rejected the comments made by Cllr Kelly that residents were ‘always looking backwards’.
Cllr Frances McAndrew said she agreed ‘whole-heartedly’ with the comments of Cllr Kelly, saying a lot could be achieved if the parties looked towards future progress. Both councillors left the meeting together after speaking to the floor.
Cllr Johnnie O’Malley did not take the same line laid down by his party colleague Cllr McAndrew, and told the meeting he felt the ‘frank exchange of views’ was a necessary part of the process. “People have to let off steam. These people are representing other residents and have to vent the feelings the others have expressed. Clúid has lost credibility in this. The residents could not speak in the Council chamber and they have a right to do so here,” he said.
Speaking after the meeting, Jean Brown told The Mayo News she felt the walk-out by the two councillors was ‘totally and completely unprofessional’. “They should stand down as public representatives if they are not prepared to represent the people fairly. As part of our meeting we were well within our rights to question Clúid on matters arising from their meeting with the Council and we did so in the format we chose.”
Ms Brown also extended thanks to Cllrs Peter Clarke, Mark Winters, Padraig Moore and Johnnie O’Malley for ‘constant assistance and respect shown to us’
TUESDAY, 11 NOVEMBER 2008
Councillors walk out of Ballina Parkside residents’ meeting
Anna-Marie Flynn
TWO town councillors dramatically walked out of a meeting between Clúid Housing Association and Ballina’s Parkside Residents’ Committee last week in a move described as ‘totally and completely unprofessional’.
In the latest twist in the proposed €11.5 million regeneration project, an update meeting between residents and Clúid personnel became heated after an initial question and answer session, during which residents queried issues raised at a Council meeting of October 15 last, Cllr Mary Kelly suggested the format was not appropriate.
During the session, the frustration of residents was relayed with one tenant going so far as to walk out of the meeting amid claims he was ‘fed up with constant promises’.
Cllr Kelly told Residents’ Chairperson Jean Brown: “You need to start looking forward and not back. This format is not going to work, with people going back on things that have been said before. It’s time to move forward and try and overcome this,” she said.
Ms Brown rejected the comments made by Cllr Kelly that residents were ‘always looking backwards’.
Cllr Frances McAndrew said she agreed ‘whole-heartedly’ with the comments of Cllr Kelly, saying a lot could be achieved if the parties looked towards future progress. Both councillors left the meeting together after speaking to the floor.
Cllr Johnnie O’Malley did not take the same line laid down by his party colleague Cllr McAndrew, and told the meeting he felt the ‘frank exchange of views’ was a necessary part of the process. “People have to let off steam. These people are representing other residents and have to vent the feelings the others have expressed. Clúid has lost credibility in this. The residents could not speak in the Council chamber and they have a right to do so here,” he said.
Speaking after the meeting, Jean Brown told The Mayo News she felt the walk-out by the two councillors was ‘totally and completely unprofessional’. “They should stand down as public representatives if they are not prepared to represent the people fairly. As part of our meeting we were well within our rights to question Clúid on matters arising from their meeting with the Council and we did so in the format we chose.”
Ms Brown also extended thanks to Cllrs Peter Clarke, Mark Winters, Padraig Moore and Johnnie O’Malley for ‘constant assistance and respect shown to us’
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
"Get Out - Stay Out"
"Get Out - Stay Out"
This scenario card lesson plan is designed to teach early elementary school children about fire escape planning and practice in the school setting and the importance of escape planning for children with disabilities.
Each scenario includes a different disability and provides an opportunity for school children to discuss how to assist others or be assisted in escaping. The scenarios are pictorial and can be used in a variety of activities including role playing, sequencing, and story starters.
Materials
• Sequence cards (set of 5 – laminated, if possible). Place each set of cards in a manila envelope
Objectives
• Students will be able to state why it is important to have and practice a fire escape plan for persons of all ages and abilities.
• Students will be able to identify the sound of the fire alarm or the visual alert from a strobe alarm, at least two ways out of the classroom and the outside meeting place at school.
• Students will be able to describe at least one way they could help someone with disabilities get out of the school when the fire alarm sounds or flashes.
Procedure
1. Write the word “Plan” on a chalkboard or whiteboard.
2. Ask students “what is a plan?” (A plan is like a road map. It tells you where to go and gives you ways to get to where you want to go.)
3. Explain that it is important to have a plan for how to get out of every room in the school.
4. Ask who knows what a fire alarm sounds like? Some fire alarms don’t make a sound. Instead, these alarms flash so that persons who are not able to hear are still able to know there is an emergency and that they need to respond. Have students demonstrate the sound of a fire alarm. Also demonstrate the flash of a strobe light. What does it mean? (There is a fire or an emergency – get out)
5. Review how you would get out of your classroom and other areas of the school such as the cafeteria, library or bathroom, or down the stairs. Talk about how a child in a wheelchair would be able to be transferred to a rescue mat or rescue chair for a safe evacuation down the stairs. Talk about how important it is for the students to wear or carry their medical passports (medical records on a flash drive) during an emergency evacuation. Identify two ways out of every room in case of an emergency. Doors should be closed after everyone has left the room. Practice the escape plan from start to finish at your outside meeting place. Practice alternative escape routes in case the primary exit is blocked.
6. Ask why is it important to have an outside meeting place. (So that you know that everyone is safe) Return to the classroom.
7. If someone could not hear the fire alarm, how could we help the person if the fire alarm sounds? (Use sign language or point to the alarm to tell them that we need to get out and then be a buddy to help them get out) . Another course of action would be to have strobe alarms installed at your school so that children who have a hearing disability also would be alerted.
If you are with someone in a wheelchair and the alarm sounds or flashes, how could you help the person? (Remember to always ask the person in the wheelchair if he or she needs help being pushed before doing so. If a teacher, teacher’s aid or personal care assistant already is pushing a person in a wheelchair, ask if you can be of help to make certain they get to the meeting place. You may be able to hold a door open so the wheelchair can get through.)
If someone can’t see and the alarm sounds, how could we help the person? (Have the person hold your elbow and guide the person out of the classroom. Tell the person where you are going and what is ahead so they understand what you are doing.)
If someone has broken their leg and is using crutches and the fire alarm sounds, how could we help the person? (Help the person pick up their crutches, hold a door open for the person.)
If someone is not feeling well and the fire alarm sounds, how could we help the person? (Hold the person’s hand and help him or her leave the classroom. The teacher or school nurse will be bringing medicines and medical equipment that children need once they get to the meeting place.)
8. It’s important to know that sometimes we might need help to get out. Sometimes it’s the teacher who will help. Students can help, too – holding doors, being a good buddy, and being friendly. Who else could be a helper at school? (school nurse, janitor, principal, guidance counselor, librarian, bus driver, etc.)
9. Use the sequence cards to review how students and grown-ups can help each other during a fire drill.
10. Use the sequence cards as visuals as students recite the following poem:
If the fire alarm sounds or flashes, I know what to do.
I can be a helper or you can help me, too.
I know the plan. It’s easy as can be.
If the alarm sounds or flashes, I’ll get out quickly!
11. Plan for any students who may need assistance escaping during a fire or emergency.
12. Teachers, teacher aides, and personal care assistants (PCAs) should hold primary responsibility for helping children who need assistance escaping. However, students, school nurse, janitor, etc. can be helpers, signing instructions to other children, holding doors, leading students out of the classroom, etc.
13. Have students act out each scenario. Allow students to work in a learning center to put the sequence cards in the correct order.
Extensions
Provide each student with a set of sequence cards. Have students cut out the cards and paste them in order on a piece of paper. Older students can write the numerals 1 through 4 to designate the correct sequence.
Using the sequence cards as prompts, have students create a story to go with the cards. This can be done as a activity with the teacher recording sentences on newsprint or students can act out each story or write their own stories in a journal.
Have students identify the beginning, middle, and end of the sequence of events for each set of cards.
Background information for teachers
Every student with a disability needs a personal school emergency evacuation plan. The plan should be part of the Individual Educational Program (IEP) to provide for the safety of the child during a building emergency, including an evacuation. The IEP will specify recommendations from a child’s physician or other medical staff on considerations or special needs that must be planned for during a child’s emergency evacuation. NFPA’s personal school emergency evacuation document provides an overview and checklist to address the specific needs of a child during emergency evacuations.
Some evacuation plans will require safety products to assist in the transfer of children with disabilities down stairs such as transfer slings, rescue chairs or mats. Make certain IEP teams are aware of the Safe Escape Program as a resource for making recommendations for evacuation products and education for school staff and families. See www.escapesafe.org or call +1 888 365-2022 for more information.
A portable health file for each child is important. This file should be with the child so that emergency responders can have access to the information.
Once the child has evacuated to the outside meeting place, if the child needs immediate medical attention, first responders on the scene need to be made aware immediately of the child’s needs.
"Get Out - Stay Out"
This scenario card lesson plan is designed to teach early elementary school children about fire escape planning and practice in the school setting and the importance of escape planning for children with disabilities.
Each scenario includes a different disability and provides an opportunity for school children to discuss how to assist others or be assisted in escaping. The scenarios are pictorial and can be used in a variety of activities including role playing, sequencing, and story starters.
Materials
• Sequence cards (set of 5 – laminated, if possible). Place each set of cards in a manila envelope
Objectives
• Students will be able to state why it is important to have and practice a fire escape plan for persons of all ages and abilities.
• Students will be able to identify the sound of the fire alarm or the visual alert from a strobe alarm, at least two ways out of the classroom and the outside meeting place at school.
• Students will be able to describe at least one way they could help someone with disabilities get out of the school when the fire alarm sounds or flashes.
Procedure
1. Write the word “Plan” on a chalkboard or whiteboard.
2. Ask students “what is a plan?” (A plan is like a road map. It tells you where to go and gives you ways to get to where you want to go.)
3. Explain that it is important to have a plan for how to get out of every room in the school.
4. Ask who knows what a fire alarm sounds like? Some fire alarms don’t make a sound. Instead, these alarms flash so that persons who are not able to hear are still able to know there is an emergency and that they need to respond. Have students demonstrate the sound of a fire alarm. Also demonstrate the flash of a strobe light. What does it mean? (There is a fire or an emergency – get out)
5. Review how you would get out of your classroom and other areas of the school such as the cafeteria, library or bathroom, or down the stairs. Talk about how a child in a wheelchair would be able to be transferred to a rescue mat or rescue chair for a safe evacuation down the stairs. Talk about how important it is for the students to wear or carry their medical passports (medical records on a flash drive) during an emergency evacuation. Identify two ways out of every room in case of an emergency. Doors should be closed after everyone has left the room. Practice the escape plan from start to finish at your outside meeting place. Practice alternative escape routes in case the primary exit is blocked.
6. Ask why is it important to have an outside meeting place. (So that you know that everyone is safe) Return to the classroom.
7. If someone could not hear the fire alarm, how could we help the person if the fire alarm sounds? (Use sign language or point to the alarm to tell them that we need to get out and then be a buddy to help them get out) . Another course of action would be to have strobe alarms installed at your school so that children who have a hearing disability also would be alerted.
If you are with someone in a wheelchair and the alarm sounds or flashes, how could you help the person? (Remember to always ask the person in the wheelchair if he or she needs help being pushed before doing so. If a teacher, teacher’s aid or personal care assistant already is pushing a person in a wheelchair, ask if you can be of help to make certain they get to the meeting place. You may be able to hold a door open so the wheelchair can get through.)
If someone can’t see and the alarm sounds, how could we help the person? (Have the person hold your elbow and guide the person out of the classroom. Tell the person where you are going and what is ahead so they understand what you are doing.)
If someone has broken their leg and is using crutches and the fire alarm sounds, how could we help the person? (Help the person pick up their crutches, hold a door open for the person.)
If someone is not feeling well and the fire alarm sounds, how could we help the person? (Hold the person’s hand and help him or her leave the classroom. The teacher or school nurse will be bringing medicines and medical equipment that children need once they get to the meeting place.)
8. It’s important to know that sometimes we might need help to get out. Sometimes it’s the teacher who will help. Students can help, too – holding doors, being a good buddy, and being friendly. Who else could be a helper at school? (school nurse, janitor, principal, guidance counselor, librarian, bus driver, etc.)
9. Use the sequence cards to review how students and grown-ups can help each other during a fire drill.
10. Use the sequence cards as visuals as students recite the following poem:
If the fire alarm sounds or flashes, I know what to do.
I can be a helper or you can help me, too.
I know the plan. It’s easy as can be.
If the alarm sounds or flashes, I’ll get out quickly!
11. Plan for any students who may need assistance escaping during a fire or emergency.
12. Teachers, teacher aides, and personal care assistants (PCAs) should hold primary responsibility for helping children who need assistance escaping. However, students, school nurse, janitor, etc. can be helpers, signing instructions to other children, holding doors, leading students out of the classroom, etc.
13. Have students act out each scenario. Allow students to work in a learning center to put the sequence cards in the correct order.
Extensions
Provide each student with a set of sequence cards. Have students cut out the cards and paste them in order on a piece of paper. Older students can write the numerals 1 through 4 to designate the correct sequence.
Using the sequence cards as prompts, have students create a story to go with the cards. This can be done as a activity with the teacher recording sentences on newsprint or students can act out each story or write their own stories in a journal.
Have students identify the beginning, middle, and end of the sequence of events for each set of cards.
Background information for teachers
Every student with a disability needs a personal school emergency evacuation plan. The plan should be part of the Individual Educational Program (IEP) to provide for the safety of the child during a building emergency, including an evacuation. The IEP will specify recommendations from a child’s physician or other medical staff on considerations or special needs that must be planned for during a child’s emergency evacuation. NFPA’s personal school emergency evacuation document provides an overview and checklist to address the specific needs of a child during emergency evacuations.
Some evacuation plans will require safety products to assist in the transfer of children with disabilities down stairs such as transfer slings, rescue chairs or mats. Make certain IEP teams are aware of the Safe Escape Program as a resource for making recommendations for evacuation products and education for school staff and families. See www.escapesafe.org or call +1 888 365-2022 for more information.
A portable health file for each child is important. This file should be with the child so that emergency responders can have access to the information.
Once the child has evacuated to the outside meeting place, if the child needs immediate medical attention, first responders on the scene need to be made aware immediately of the child’s needs.
"Get Out - Stay Out"
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Mayo O2 Ability Awards
From: Caroline Casey
To: thomaschambers@eircom.net
Cc: 'Sarah Conroy'
Subject: O2 Ability Awards
Dear Thomas,
Thank you for your email of 26th January and sincere apologies for the delay in replying to you. I appreciate your feedback and am sorry to hear of your experiences with Mayo County Council. As a person with a disability myself I fully understand everyday frustrations with day-to-day life. As you may be aware we are attempting to establish a benchmark of excellence in the employment of people with disabilities, what we’re also doing is concentrating on the positive. No organization is doing a perfect job but companies that have the right attitude should be commended and some rewarded.
The O2 Ability Awards were designed to award companies that are striving to embrace diversity in their organisations. No organisation is perfect as is no person. The journey of recognising the potential and contribution that people with disabilities make to business is going to take time. As with anything, mistakes will and have been made, but it is how we overcome those mistakes and the fact that we continually strive for improvement is what truly deserves attention and is the reason for any success. These Awards are about encouraging Irish business to see that employing people with disabilities is both possible and good for business. By using the examples of those companies that have begun to do this and whose philosophy is to treat people equally we can create future opportunities. The O2 Ability Awards is about continuous improvement. They encourage business leaders and companies to ask questions, to assess themselves and their progress and to create an environment where success is rewarded. There is no full stop or perfect point. The O2 Ability Awards recognise the beginning of a journey to ensure the momentum is sustained!
Kindest regards,
Caroline.
Caroline Casey
Founder and Development
The Aisling Foundation
The rear of 1 Mount Street Crescent
Dublin 2
Ph : 00 353 1 634 0018
Mb : 00 353 87 242 3792
.
To: thomaschambers@eircom.net
Cc: 'Sarah Conroy'
Subject: O2 Ability Awards
Dear Thomas,
Thank you for your email of 26th January and sincere apologies for the delay in replying to you. I appreciate your feedback and am sorry to hear of your experiences with Mayo County Council. As a person with a disability myself I fully understand everyday frustrations with day-to-day life. As you may be aware we are attempting to establish a benchmark of excellence in the employment of people with disabilities, what we’re also doing is concentrating on the positive. No organization is doing a perfect job but companies that have the right attitude should be commended and some rewarded.
The O2 Ability Awards were designed to award companies that are striving to embrace diversity in their organisations. No organisation is perfect as is no person. The journey of recognising the potential and contribution that people with disabilities make to business is going to take time. As with anything, mistakes will and have been made, but it is how we overcome those mistakes and the fact that we continually strive for improvement is what truly deserves attention and is the reason for any success. These Awards are about encouraging Irish business to see that employing people with disabilities is both possible and good for business. By using the examples of those companies that have begun to do this and whose philosophy is to treat people equally we can create future opportunities. The O2 Ability Awards is about continuous improvement. They encourage business leaders and companies to ask questions, to assess themselves and their progress and to create an environment where success is rewarded. There is no full stop or perfect point. The O2 Ability Awards recognise the beginning of a journey to ensure the momentum is sustained!
Kindest regards,
Caroline.
Caroline Casey
Founder and Development
The Aisling Foundation
The rear of 1 Mount Street Crescent
Dublin 2
Ph : 00 353 1 634 0018
Mb : 00 353 87 242 3792
.
Monday, November 10, 2008
Newport Town and Access?
Cllr. Johnny O’Malley
The Demesne
Westport
Co. Mayo
Dear Johnny,
I am writing to you because I wish to highlight several issues around Newport in relation to access issues. As you might be aware I have been involved in highlighting and campaigning for improved access for all in Mayo.
I am very concerned about several issues here in my home town in Newport and I wish to raise them with you to request your help in correcting them.
The following issues are outstanding in Newport
The parking outside the post office for those that are wheelchair bound should have the yellow box on the right-hand side.
The signage that has been erected is not the correct signage. The sign itself should be blue with white logo however the sign that has been erected has a black logo with a white background.
The surface around the new bus terminal is uneven and a new surfaced should be completed as soon as possible.
Access is required from the park to the Health Centre as there is no roadway access. Clear and well marked tactile warnings should be installed.
A rail that surrounds the entrance to the viaduct in Newport does not turn down as suggested in the handbook and by regulations. Also there is no ramp access for people who are wheelchair-bound to the viaduct. This takes from the town’s accessibility for wheelchair users and mother with buggies.
The new Newport office entrance ramp is far too steep and should be lowered so that access is easier. Also the rim around the base of the door is not flush with the ground and could pose a problem for people with wheelchairs.
There is no disabled parking marked out in the area.
A disabled parking space should be installed at the Local Hall as there are frequent events held at the hall and this would be an ideal place for a disabled parking space.
Parking is also a problem in this area as many people park in front of the access places for buggies and wheelchairs and people have to move around them often for some distance to give access to the footpath and shops.
Gullies are also a common problem in the town. When the roads are resurfaced the gullies are not moved up to the level of the new road and become the lower than the road.
The ramp on Main Street does not seem to fit the area as there is a loading bay at one end and people have found it difficult to gain access to the ramp because of the loading bay. Also the yellow box has been placed at the rear of the space. The railing also needs to recheck as the railing would not prevent any person from falling off the footpath and injuring themselves.
Sections of the footpath are missing and have been replaced by a sheet of wood. This should be taken into consideration when the path is being patched up.
A parking bay should be installed at Chambers shop. This is to facilitate people in wheelchairs as there is no real access in the area as the gullies are still posing a problem for wheelchair users.
Seaview has ramps that are made from cobbles and are proving to be a great problem. Access is virtually impossible as the cobbles are rough and not smooth. These should be removed straight away as we have been informed that a number of residents use some form of mobile transport for the elderly or disabled people.
The speed ramps on the quay road are too close to the footpath and people have to travel on the main road as the footpath is too rough to travel on in a wheelchair or otherwise.
A crossing should be installed at the hotel corner so that people can access from the opposite side of the street.
Tactile warnings should be installed from the edge of wall to the edge of the footpath for those that are visually impaired or otherwise.
The ramp at Chamber’s on George’s Street has been removed and the residence would like to see it replaced.
A footpath from town should be continued to the football pitch as the footpath that is currently in place only goes as far as the school.
Foliage on the Quay Road also poses a problem as people have to move free from the foliage to gain access to the rest of the footpath.
The work fails to comply with building regulations.
Yours sincerely
_______________
Thomas Chambers
Disability Campaigner
“The Billy Ranch”
Knocknageeha
Newport
Co. Mayo
The Demesne
Westport
Co. Mayo
Dear Johnny,
I am writing to you because I wish to highlight several issues around Newport in relation to access issues. As you might be aware I have been involved in highlighting and campaigning for improved access for all in Mayo.
I am very concerned about several issues here in my home town in Newport and I wish to raise them with you to request your help in correcting them.
The following issues are outstanding in Newport
The parking outside the post office for those that are wheelchair bound should have the yellow box on the right-hand side.
The signage that has been erected is not the correct signage. The sign itself should be blue with white logo however the sign that has been erected has a black logo with a white background.
The surface around the new bus terminal is uneven and a new surfaced should be completed as soon as possible.
Access is required from the park to the Health Centre as there is no roadway access. Clear and well marked tactile warnings should be installed.
A rail that surrounds the entrance to the viaduct in Newport does not turn down as suggested in the handbook and by regulations. Also there is no ramp access for people who are wheelchair-bound to the viaduct. This takes from the town’s accessibility for wheelchair users and mother with buggies.
The new Newport office entrance ramp is far too steep and should be lowered so that access is easier. Also the rim around the base of the door is not flush with the ground and could pose a problem for people with wheelchairs.
There is no disabled parking marked out in the area.
A disabled parking space should be installed at the Local Hall as there are frequent events held at the hall and this would be an ideal place for a disabled parking space.
Parking is also a problem in this area as many people park in front of the access places for buggies and wheelchairs and people have to move around them often for some distance to give access to the footpath and shops.
Gullies are also a common problem in the town. When the roads are resurfaced the gullies are not moved up to the level of the new road and become the lower than the road.
The ramp on Main Street does not seem to fit the area as there is a loading bay at one end and people have found it difficult to gain access to the ramp because of the loading bay. Also the yellow box has been placed at the rear of the space. The railing also needs to recheck as the railing would not prevent any person from falling off the footpath and injuring themselves.
Sections of the footpath are missing and have been replaced by a sheet of wood. This should be taken into consideration when the path is being patched up.
A parking bay should be installed at Chambers shop. This is to facilitate people in wheelchairs as there is no real access in the area as the gullies are still posing a problem for wheelchair users.
Seaview has ramps that are made from cobbles and are proving to be a great problem. Access is virtually impossible as the cobbles are rough and not smooth. These should be removed straight away as we have been informed that a number of residents use some form of mobile transport for the elderly or disabled people.
The speed ramps on the quay road are too close to the footpath and people have to travel on the main road as the footpath is too rough to travel on in a wheelchair or otherwise.
A crossing should be installed at the hotel corner so that people can access from the opposite side of the street.
Tactile warnings should be installed from the edge of wall to the edge of the footpath for those that are visually impaired or otherwise.
The ramp at Chamber’s on George’s Street has been removed and the residence would like to see it replaced.
A footpath from town should be continued to the football pitch as the footpath that is currently in place only goes as far as the school.
Foliage on the Quay Road also poses a problem as people have to move free from the foliage to gain access to the rest of the footpath.
The work fails to comply with building regulations.
Yours sincerely
_______________
Thomas Chambers
Disability Campaigner
“The Billy Ranch”
Knocknageeha
Newport
Co. Mayo
Monday, November 03, 2008
WHY WORRY?
There are only two things
To worry about-
Either you are well, or you are sick.
If you are well, then there is nothing
to worry about-
But if you are sick,
There are two things to worry about.
Either you will get well, or you die.
If you die, then you have
Two things to worry about.
Either you go to Heaven or to Hell
If you go to Heaven, then there is
Nothing to worry about-
But if you go to Hell,
You will be so damn busy
Shaking hands with old friends,
You won’t have time to worry.
There are only two things
To worry about-
Either you are well, or you are sick.
If you are well, then there is nothing
to worry about-
But if you are sick,
There are two things to worry about.
Either you will get well, or you die.
If you die, then you have
Two things to worry about.
Either you go to Heaven or to Hell
If you go to Heaven, then there is
Nothing to worry about-
But if you go to Hell,
You will be so damn busy
Shaking hands with old friends,
You won’t have time to worry.
Thursday, October 23, 2008
Beijing Special Olympics 2008
Another Beijing Uproar
Dear Editor
During early summer, disabled groups reacted with outrage to an official guide for assistants at the Beijing Olympic Games that describes them as unsocial, stubborn and defensive. The guide for Chinese volunteers at the Games this summer explains that disabled people are a “special group” with “unique personalities and ways of thinking”.
The section of the manual entitled “Skills for helping the disabled” goes on to say: “Some physically disabled are isolated, unsocial, and introspective. They can be stubborn and controlling…defensive and have a strong sense of inferiority.
“Sometimes they are overly protective of themselves, especially when they are called crippled or paralyzed. Does not use “cripple” or “lame” even if you are just joking.”
The guide, distributed to 100,000 volunteers before the Olympics in August and Paralympics in September, sparked outrage in among disabled groups.
“I’m stunned,” said Simone Aspic, a parliamentary campaigner at the UK Disabled people’s Council. “It’s not just the language but the perception that in 2008 we are considered a race apart. Disabled people are introverted and stubborn the same way as anyone else is.” The handbook notes that “often optically disabled people are introverted” and that physically disabled people can be mentally healthy.
“They show no differences in sensation, reaction, memorization and thinking mechanisms from other people, but they might have unusual personalities because of disfigurement and disability,” it said.
“Never stare at their disfigurement. A patronizing or condescending attitude will easily sensed by them, even for a brain-damaged patient.”
The advice reflects decades of discrimination in China against mentally and physically disabled people, who total 83 million – equivalent to the population of Germany.
The Communist Party’s desire for a healthy nation, characterized by the one child policy, fostered deep prejudices that extended to forced sterilizations, bans on marriages between disabled people and abortions of abnormal fetuses.
Most disabled people are from poor, rural areas. Those in affluent society were hidden away until public attitudes softened in the 1990s. Besides improved legal rights, there has been social progress. The Chinese now refer to can ji ren, or people with disabilities, instead of can fei, the handicapped and deficient.
Regards,
Tom Chambers
“The Billy Ranch”
Newport
Co. Mayo
Dear Editor
During early summer, disabled groups reacted with outrage to an official guide for assistants at the Beijing Olympic Games that describes them as unsocial, stubborn and defensive. The guide for Chinese volunteers at the Games this summer explains that disabled people are a “special group” with “unique personalities and ways of thinking”.
The section of the manual entitled “Skills for helping the disabled” goes on to say: “Some physically disabled are isolated, unsocial, and introspective. They can be stubborn and controlling…defensive and have a strong sense of inferiority.
“Sometimes they are overly protective of themselves, especially when they are called crippled or paralyzed. Does not use “cripple” or “lame” even if you are just joking.”
The guide, distributed to 100,000 volunteers before the Olympics in August and Paralympics in September, sparked outrage in among disabled groups.
“I’m stunned,” said Simone Aspic, a parliamentary campaigner at the UK Disabled people’s Council. “It’s not just the language but the perception that in 2008 we are considered a race apart. Disabled people are introverted and stubborn the same way as anyone else is.” The handbook notes that “often optically disabled people are introverted” and that physically disabled people can be mentally healthy.
“They show no differences in sensation, reaction, memorization and thinking mechanisms from other people, but they might have unusual personalities because of disfigurement and disability,” it said.
“Never stare at their disfigurement. A patronizing or condescending attitude will easily sensed by them, even for a brain-damaged patient.”
The advice reflects decades of discrimination in China against mentally and physically disabled people, who total 83 million – equivalent to the population of Germany.
The Communist Party’s desire for a healthy nation, characterized by the one child policy, fostered deep prejudices that extended to forced sterilizations, bans on marriages between disabled people and abortions of abnormal fetuses.
Most disabled people are from poor, rural areas. Those in affluent society were hidden away until public attitudes softened in the 1990s. Besides improved legal rights, there has been social progress. The Chinese now refer to can ji ren, or people with disabilities, instead of can fei, the handicapped and deficient.
Regards,
Tom Chambers
“The Billy Ranch”
Newport
Co. Mayo
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
Improvements to Newport Town
Meeting with Padraic Philbin on 2nd July2008
A meeting took place on 2nd of July 2008 with Padraic Philbin, Area Engineer for Newport Town and my self Tom Chambers. We met in the newly refurbished offices in Newport at approximately 10am. We had a chat about what we were to do and then proceeded to have a walkabout in the town environs.
We looked at several areas and Padraic and I agreed the areas that needed attention he gave me a commitment, money allowing, of the areas he could make changes to this year. It transpires money for remedial work has already being spent, but the money could be found for these remedial works.
The ramp to the viaduct was one area highlighted but unfortunately money is not available for this at present, unless funds are made available this work will not be done till next year.
The grill surrounding the trees on Main Street was highlighted.
The ramp on to the Main Street was highlighted and is to be enlarged to enable easier access for disabled parking and all pedestrian crossings to be painted in a highly visible colour.
The drop down kerb and the pedestrian crossing, opposite the hotel raised concern. Padraic said improvements for access were to be made.
George’s Street raised concerns as access is not viable from midway down on the left hand side going down.
Disabled Parking bay will be relocated to lower George’s Street and the crossing by the telephone box will be widened to its appropriate width and painted for visibility.
Quay Road (North Side) speed ramps are not accessible for wheelchairs due to the design and layout of the footpath and are located to close to kerbs this was to be looked at but due to forthcoming sewerage works due to commence this will be at a later date.
Ramps in Seaview Park are not accessible due to the design and layout of the footpath and causing distress to residents as it is at the moment.
The dropped kerb and crossing of Quay Road (South side) needs attention.
Post Office disabled bays are not signed or marked out correctly.
The Access ramp at Canon Killeen Park needs attention.
A need for a Footpath is required from Canon Killeen Park to the health center and from the Health Centre to the Post Office but Padraic couldn’t comment on this.
He said if the money could be made available for the ramp onto the viaduct these works could be undertaken this year. He gave a commitment that the other highlighted works would be done this year.
Finally, he permitted me to carry out my own inspection on the new Newport Town Council offices and forward report to Kevin Cooke, Disability access officer for Mayo Co. Council.
A meeting took place on 2nd of July 2008 with Padraic Philbin, Area Engineer for Newport Town and my self Tom Chambers. We met in the newly refurbished offices in Newport at approximately 10am. We had a chat about what we were to do and then proceeded to have a walkabout in the town environs.
We looked at several areas and Padraic and I agreed the areas that needed attention he gave me a commitment, money allowing, of the areas he could make changes to this year. It transpires money for remedial work has already being spent, but the money could be found for these remedial works.
The ramp to the viaduct was one area highlighted but unfortunately money is not available for this at present, unless funds are made available this work will not be done till next year.
The grill surrounding the trees on Main Street was highlighted.
The ramp on to the Main Street was highlighted and is to be enlarged to enable easier access for disabled parking and all pedestrian crossings to be painted in a highly visible colour.
The drop down kerb and the pedestrian crossing, opposite the hotel raised concern. Padraic said improvements for access were to be made.
George’s Street raised concerns as access is not viable from midway down on the left hand side going down.
Disabled Parking bay will be relocated to lower George’s Street and the crossing by the telephone box will be widened to its appropriate width and painted for visibility.
Quay Road (North Side) speed ramps are not accessible for wheelchairs due to the design and layout of the footpath and are located to close to kerbs this was to be looked at but due to forthcoming sewerage works due to commence this will be at a later date.
Ramps in Seaview Park are not accessible due to the design and layout of the footpath and causing distress to residents as it is at the moment.
The dropped kerb and crossing of Quay Road (South side) needs attention.
Post Office disabled bays are not signed or marked out correctly.
The Access ramp at Canon Killeen Park needs attention.
A need for a Footpath is required from Canon Killeen Park to the health center and from the Health Centre to the Post Office but Padraic couldn’t comment on this.
He said if the money could be made available for the ramp onto the viaduct these works could be undertaken this year. He gave a commitment that the other highlighted works would be done this year.
Finally, he permitted me to carry out my own inspection on the new Newport Town Council offices and forward report to Kevin Cooke, Disability access officer for Mayo Co. Council.
Saturday, July 05, 2008
Cllr. Kevin Guthrie (Cathaoirleach)
McHale Road
Castlebar
Co. Mayo
Thursday, July 03, 2008
Dear Kevin,
I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate you on your recent appointment to Cathaoirleach of Castlebar Town Council. I belief that you will serve the towns people well as you have done so in the past.
I hope you will continue and support organizations and associations as well as before, especially your work with the youth and the elderly.
I hope in your role as Cathaoirleach you would find time to promote access for all issues and make the town of Castlebar wheelchair accessible and universally accessible for people with any disability and make Castlebar even more Tourists friendly this would indeed make a real difference in simple everyday necessities often overlooked by the town planners and council.
I would like to meet with you to discuss how these changes could be made in an effective way I believe that with my insight into access issues and your care and commitment we can make a difference.
Looking forward to hearing from you.
……………………
Tom Chambers
McHale Road
Castlebar
Co. Mayo
Thursday, July 03, 2008
Dear Kevin,
I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate you on your recent appointment to Cathaoirleach of Castlebar Town Council. I belief that you will serve the towns people well as you have done so in the past.
I hope you will continue and support organizations and associations as well as before, especially your work with the youth and the elderly.
I hope in your role as Cathaoirleach you would find time to promote access for all issues and make the town of Castlebar wheelchair accessible and universally accessible for people with any disability and make Castlebar even more Tourists friendly this would indeed make a real difference in simple everyday necessities often overlooked by the town planners and council.
I would like to meet with you to discuss how these changes could be made in an effective way I believe that with my insight into access issues and your care and commitment we can make a difference.
Looking forward to hearing from you.
……………………
Tom Chambers
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