Why are you standing for Cork City Council?
I got involved in politics to help change peoples lives for the better, too often we accept the way things are, rather than the way things should be. I am standing for the people in Cork that need their to have their voices heard
I have been listening to people in Dublin Hill, Ballyvolane Blackpool, the Glen, Shandon, Farranree, and Gurranabraher.
I know only to well the concerns of the elderly people, many of them afraid to leave there homes after 6 pm in the evening, because of anti social behaviour and crime in the area.
The ordinary working man and woman's biggest concern is if he or she has a job next week with the amount of companies relocating to India and south America and so on; or the single mother with children trying to educate and feed her children on a tight budget; I know the need of a young couples trying to pay a Mortgage for a home that is worth 30% less than they originally paid, and the needs of parents of a child with special needs that is in a class that is far to big and not getting the attention the child needs.
I know the need of these people only to well; I am standing up for them.
What experience do you have?
I ran a successful business in Spain for a number of years (insert detail)
I have been active in community affairs and local politics since I joined Fianna Fail, my first election was canvassing for my dad in the 1991 local election. I stood outside the Glen Hall in Blackpool with a board asking people to vote for my Dad.
I've worked on Brian Crowley's election campaigns, the by election and general election campaign, and the 1997 the presidential election, I was Munster treasure for Fianna Fail Ogra in 1995.I am currently working as Parliamentary Adviser to Noel O Flynn T.D. this has given me a huge insight into the challenges facing people in the constituency and indeed in the city.
What do you think of the current economic situation?
We have had 12 years of prosperity we have been a leading economy in Europe under Fianna Fail’s leadership.
However the reality is that the whole world is now in economic free fall from the USA to China.
We have hard times ahead of us we need to make the hard and unpopular decisions as some one in business I know only to well, we need to streamline from the top down, not from the bottom up.
We need to re-examine tax on the super rich; we need to look at the tax breaks that Artists can claim I think it is crazy that a singer or dancer can earn up two250k a year with out paying tax on it.
I think it is wrong to be sending money out of the country in social welfare benefits all social welfare benefits should be collected in the local Post offices not sent to bank accounts all around the globe.
What are the major challenges for the City of Cork and what do you intend to do about it?
As a Council we are in a time of economic difficulty we are burdened with a heavy responsibility.
Cork has faced many changes and challenges we have had both highs and lows, good times and bad times but we have always come out stronger
I believe Cork has a lot going for it.
• Our plan to rebuild Shandon Butter Exchange;
• Our Docklands Project:
• Our on going commitment to Tourism and Culture these plans are noble but yet not enough.
Dublin and Belfast are linking more and more each day, Limerick and Galway the same, and the continuous threat of Waterford City battling for its place in the South. If you note ongoing advertising of Waterford Port; how prime it is for industry and trade with Europe and USA, portraying that it is the natural gateway to Europe essentially stealing the true identity of Cork City, it is about time we fought back with our own visionary plan.
We have problems with anti social behavior being in our City from the center to the suburbs, and I understand that a great deal of our City budget is spent every year in repairing vandalism. There is a simple solution all that needs to be done on this, is we take away the opportunity for the crime to be perpetrated; we must keep the grass cut low; close off rat runs used to avoid the Gardai and light the areas that these thugs are congregating; we must have a real zero tolerance not a just talked about one.
It is my understanding that a number of houses purchased by Cork City Council have not been allocated and some of these homes are now falling into disrepair one example that comes to mind was a house purchased by Cork City Council over 11 months ago it has been broken in to three times a six thousand Euro kitchen has been removed all the windows are now broken and subsequently boarded up, to put this house back to the state it was bought in, will now cost the City Council over 15 thousand Euros this has no rhyme or reason with over five thousand people on the housing list. Frankly that is not acceptable.
Unemployment is now a growing problem in Cork what do you intend to do about it?
This is something of huge concern to my constituency I am very concerned about this, the top priority is that we keep jobs in Cork. The election of Barack Obama will not be helpful in relation to the American Companies. From what he's said I don't think Ireland is even on his radar, which worries me. So as a City Councillor I will do all in my power to work at keeping these all important American jobs in Cork.
Also I will be writing to the business community for their thoughts and ideas and producing a report based on their feedback.
What influence can a Councilor have on politics or on the lives of the people of Cork?
Well any Councilor is only as good as his last job. I think if I do anything positive or negative it'll reflect on my performance in June, my priority is to work for the people of Cork. They are my constituents and their wishes are paramount.
Do you agree with a freeze on rates and services charges?
YES
Do you believe that we should have a property tax for residential homes?
No.
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
economic crises
We are facing the most serious economic crises in 80 years, if Ireland is to survive this crisis and retain its financial and economic independence we will need to take tough decisions.
There is no easy way out of this; there are no soft options that will work. We cannot afford the current level of state expenditure, we have to cut and we have to cut deep.
When it comes to cuts I have a simple philosophy- we need to defend the services that people need and that make a tangible difference to people's lives and deliver real value to citizens and the state. Anything else needs to justify its existence and prove it can deliver real value.
There are currently in excess of 600 separate departments and agencies. What are they all doing. To give one example there are approx 40 agencies which have an input into Primary School Education, yet a Primary Principle recently made the point that if you abolished all of them, and the Department of Education, as long as you had a payroll system and a means of evaluating children with special needs then the primary education could motor on successfully for the next five years and neither teachers nor pupils would know the difference.
Or take for example the Equality Authority, do we really need a Government Agency to write a report criticizing Pat Kenny on the Late Late Show for stating that some toys would be popular with girls or others with boys. Get real no we don't we need guards on the street- protecting the peace not the PC police.
If a quango can't explain the value it delivers to the public in one short paragraph cut and cut it now, and put the people in the Agency to do something useful like providing secretarial support in Garda stations to free up police officers to go on the beat
In government I do think we could run the country with less junior Ministers
In my own opinion there is a need for only five junior ministers operating at the following departments, the Department of the Taoiseach, Department of Finance, Department of Health and Children, Department of Justice Equality and Law Reform and the Department of Foreign Affairs. The junior ministers would exist as follows; Minister of State at the Department of An Taoiseach with special responsibility as Government Chief Whip. Minister of State at the Department of Finance with special responsibility for the Office of Public Works. Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children with special responsibility for Children and the Elderly. Minister of State at the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform with special responsibility for Equality. Minister of State at the Department of Foreign Affairs with special responsibility for European Affairs.
The recent Late Late Show debate on the Senate got many people questioning the importance of the Upper-House. My understanding was that the initial intention of the Senate was to incorporate the best minds from different levels of Irish society such as culture, education, labour, agriculture etc. At present the current Senate has evolved into a very different creature. On the whole I cannot say there are very many professional senators. I feel that the Senate as it stands is little more then a waiting room for the Dáil. As a consequence and of the little relevance that it has in the process of legislation, I think it is time that the Senate is abolished. I would agree with a referendum to do so be held in conjunction with the local elections.
Since entering the Council in December I have been canvassing and there is hardly a door I go to where I do not hear about the excessive wages our parliamentarians receive. I agree entirely with these sentiments. With this budget the government must cut the wages of all TD's by 20%. Another startling fact many people are not aware of is that there are deputies at both sides of the house who have served as ministers and are in receipt of their ministerial pensions while being members of the Dáil. I do not fell this is sustainable or acceptable in the current economic climate. Ministerial pensions should only become accessible when those in receipt of them have left active politics, be it at Dáil, Senate or European level. As well as this I feel that it is an honour to serve as a member of Dáil Eireann. Thus I cannot imagine why it is necessary for TD's chairing committees to receive large salaries for doing so. I think this is another area where cuts have to be made.
There is no easy way out of this; there are no soft options that will work. We cannot afford the current level of state expenditure, we have to cut and we have to cut deep.
When it comes to cuts I have a simple philosophy- we need to defend the services that people need and that make a tangible difference to people's lives and deliver real value to citizens and the state. Anything else needs to justify its existence and prove it can deliver real value.
There are currently in excess of 600 separate departments and agencies. What are they all doing. To give one example there are approx 40 agencies which have an input into Primary School Education, yet a Primary Principle recently made the point that if you abolished all of them, and the Department of Education, as long as you had a payroll system and a means of evaluating children with special needs then the primary education could motor on successfully for the next five years and neither teachers nor pupils would know the difference.
Or take for example the Equality Authority, do we really need a Government Agency to write a report criticizing Pat Kenny on the Late Late Show for stating that some toys would be popular with girls or others with boys. Get real no we don't we need guards on the street- protecting the peace not the PC police.
If a quango can't explain the value it delivers to the public in one short paragraph cut and cut it now, and put the people in the Agency to do something useful like providing secretarial support in Garda stations to free up police officers to go on the beat
In government I do think we could run the country with less junior Ministers
In my own opinion there is a need for only five junior ministers operating at the following departments, the Department of the Taoiseach, Department of Finance, Department of Health and Children, Department of Justice Equality and Law Reform and the Department of Foreign Affairs. The junior ministers would exist as follows; Minister of State at the Department of An Taoiseach with special responsibility as Government Chief Whip. Minister of State at the Department of Finance with special responsibility for the Office of Public Works. Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children with special responsibility for Children and the Elderly. Minister of State at the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform with special responsibility for Equality. Minister of State at the Department of Foreign Affairs with special responsibility for European Affairs.
The recent Late Late Show debate on the Senate got many people questioning the importance of the Upper-House. My understanding was that the initial intention of the Senate was to incorporate the best minds from different levels of Irish society such as culture, education, labour, agriculture etc. At present the current Senate has evolved into a very different creature. On the whole I cannot say there are very many professional senators. I feel that the Senate as it stands is little more then a waiting room for the Dáil. As a consequence and of the little relevance that it has in the process of legislation, I think it is time that the Senate is abolished. I would agree with a referendum to do so be held in conjunction with the local elections.
Since entering the Council in December I have been canvassing and there is hardly a door I go to where I do not hear about the excessive wages our parliamentarians receive. I agree entirely with these sentiments. With this budget the government must cut the wages of all TD's by 20%. Another startling fact many people are not aware of is that there are deputies at both sides of the house who have served as ministers and are in receipt of their ministerial pensions while being members of the Dáil. I do not fell this is sustainable or acceptable in the current economic climate. Ministerial pensions should only become accessible when those in receipt of them have left active politics, be it at Dáil, Senate or European level. As well as this I feel that it is an honour to serve as a member of Dáil Eireann. Thus I cannot imagine why it is necessary for TD's chairing committees to receive large salaries for doing so. I think this is another area where cuts have to be made.
Councillor Kenneth O’Flynn has called on the Taxi Regulator to crack down on blatant breaches of the Taxi regulations.
“For the last number of weeks I have been receiving complaints that we have;
People driving taxi’s who don’t’ have full driving licenses
Drivers in procession of false taxi registration document;
Drivers using false tax and insurance documents;
Cases where one driver has full driving licenses a taxi license but who has three other drivers with neither.”
“If even half the complaints that have been brought to my attention are true, then we have a situation in Cork, where the system of regulation has broken down” he continued “ I have been told by a number of people that in some cases they no longer feel safe getting into taxi because of some of the drivers.”
Councilor O’Flynn called for the immediate appointment of a full time inspector for Cork to ensure that the taxi regulations are being observed, and that welfare of passengers is assured.
Councilor O’Flynn also said that if the Taxi Regulator failed to do their job, then the office and the Agency should be abolished. “ It is obvious that what happened at Anglo-Irish bank happened because the Financial Regulator was asleep at the wheel, I sincerely hope that we do not have another state regulator asleep at the wheel. The Taxi Regulator is supposed to enforce the regulations not just produce glossy reports and snazzy websites, we need action now, or the first public sector cut I will be advocating is the closure of the Taxi regulators office.
People driving taxi’s who don’t’ have full driving licenses
Drivers in procession of false taxi registration document;
Drivers using false tax and insurance documents;
Cases where one driver has full driving licenses a taxi license but who has three other drivers with neither.”
“If even half the complaints that have been brought to my attention are true, then we have a situation in Cork, where the system of regulation has broken down” he continued “ I have been told by a number of people that in some cases they no longer feel safe getting into taxi because of some of the drivers.”
Councilor O’Flynn called for the immediate appointment of a full time inspector for Cork to ensure that the taxi regulations are being observed, and that welfare of passengers is assured.
Councilor O’Flynn also said that if the Taxi Regulator failed to do their job, then the office and the Agency should be abolished. “ It is obvious that what happened at Anglo-Irish bank happened because the Financial Regulator was asleep at the wheel, I sincerely hope that we do not have another state regulator asleep at the wheel. The Taxi Regulator is supposed to enforce the regulations not just produce glossy reports and snazzy websites, we need action now, or the first public sector cut I will be advocating is the closure of the Taxi regulators office.
Ken O’Flynn identifies €175m in savings more than enough to fund the Christmas bonus for Social Welfare recipients
Ken O’Flynn identifies €175m in savings more than enough to fund the Christmas bonus for Social Welfare recipients
Councillor Ken O’Flynn has called on Government to pay in full the annual Christmas bonus for social welfare recipients
Councillor Ken O’Flynn described plans to cut the annual Christmas bonus as unnecessary and pointed out that if the Department of Finance had implemented its own procurement strategy drawn up in by PWC in 2002 it would now be saving a minimum of €175m per year or just 2% of procurement costs. Procurement is the acquisition of goods and/or services at the best possible total cost of ownership, in the right quantity and quality, at the right time, in the right place and from the right source for the direct benefit or use of corporations or individuals, generally via a contract.
“The Department of Finance is acting like Scrooge with regard to the Christmas’s of social welfare recipients and the elderly, yet it has failed miserably to implement the findings of a report it commissioned in 2002 and which could have saved the country millions” he said. “in point of fact a subsequent report in 2003 by the Information Society Commission, entitled 'Modernising Public Procurement', indicated that the government could potentially save up to €1 billion annually on public procurement.
“The permanent Government is cutting the Christmas bonus’s for the elderly but has failed to cut waste in the public sector” he said “I am calling on the Minister to as a matter of urgency to look for savings in the way that Government does its work. For example a Dublin engineer recently came up with a plan to save the country €1billion by redrawing the route for Metro North would reduce the cost by €1bn while streamlining public transport. Lets slash the waste in government before we cut benefits for the poor and the elderly”
Councillor Ken O’Flynn has called on Government to pay in full the annual Christmas bonus for social welfare recipients
Councillor Ken O’Flynn described plans to cut the annual Christmas bonus as unnecessary and pointed out that if the Department of Finance had implemented its own procurement strategy drawn up in by PWC in 2002 it would now be saving a minimum of €175m per year or just 2% of procurement costs. Procurement is the acquisition of goods and/or services at the best possible total cost of ownership, in the right quantity and quality, at the right time, in the right place and from the right source for the direct benefit or use of corporations or individuals, generally via a contract.
“The Department of Finance is acting like Scrooge with regard to the Christmas’s of social welfare recipients and the elderly, yet it has failed miserably to implement the findings of a report it commissioned in 2002 and which could have saved the country millions” he said. “in point of fact a subsequent report in 2003 by the Information Society Commission, entitled 'Modernising Public Procurement', indicated that the government could potentially save up to €1 billion annually on public procurement.
“The permanent Government is cutting the Christmas bonus’s for the elderly but has failed to cut waste in the public sector” he said “I am calling on the Minister to as a matter of urgency to look for savings in the way that Government does its work. For example a Dublin engineer recently came up with a plan to save the country €1billion by redrawing the route for Metro North would reduce the cost by €1bn while streamlining public transport. Lets slash the waste in government before we cut benefits for the poor and the elderly”
Kenneth N. O' Flynn Welcomed the announcement of Christmas Market
Councillor Kenneth O’Flynn welcomed the announcement that the Christmas Market will take place again this year. Councillor O’Flynn said that the event last year was very successful and it gives a good boost to the city centre and adds a positive atmosphere to the Grand Parade and really captures the mood of the season. “With there being so much doom and gloom going around at the moment, I feel free events like this are what is needed to lift peoples spirits. Not only will it benefit the other traders in the city, but it will encourage people from outside the city to come and visit Cork.” In reference to last years market, Councillor O’Flynn said foreign visitors he brought to the market thoroughly enjoyed the crafts and gourmet items on sale and that the market for them captured a great sense of Irishness. Councillor O’Flynn went on to say; “Since coming onto the council, I have often talked about strengthening communities well I think it is positive events like this are the way to go about doing so.” While the event has been announced, plans still remain in place to ensure the success of the event. Councillor O’Flynn from his own interest in the project promises to examine and work closely with event planning committee to ensure that the Cork City Christmas Market becomes a major event in the cities calendar and something that people everywhere can enjoy.
Cllr. Kenneth O’Flynn calls for cabinet reshuffle
Cllr. Kenneth O’Flynn calls for cabinet reshuffle
With the coming re-appointment of Junior Ministers, Cllr. Kenneth O’Flynn has expressed his hope that the Taoiseach would consider making a cabinet reshuffle. Cllr O’Flynn said; “I am not advocating a Night of the Long Knifes or anything like that. I just feel that there are certain ministers who have progressed beyond their political sell by date.” Since the current cabinet came into existence there has been much public hostility towards the cabinet as a whole with hardly any minister escaping the wrath of either the press or the public. This is something that Cllr. O’Flynn says he has found at first hand on the canvasses he has been conducting since his cooption in December. On this the councillor said; “There are some very weak links in the ministerial chain, I have found that the public sentiments agree with this.”
Cllr. O’Flynn went on to say; “There are a lot of untapped talents on the back benches that I think that it can be drawn from. I think that the Taoiseach could take bold steps in appointing not only those long serving TD’s who have proven capable public servants, but younger backbenchers who can bring a new dynamic to politics.” In closing the councillor supported the action being taken by the Taoiseach, to get Ireland back on its feet and to get the country working again; “We have had a boom. But all is not lost. We now need the type of leadership that promotes the entrepreneurs, perhaps in the green economy, which is an industry with limitless possibilities we need to be promoting small home-grown business. So that can grow into larger industry. Essentially what we need in this country is quick decisive leadership. Leadership that does not worry and is not concerned by popularity. The type of leadership that looks to the next generation, not to the next election.”
With the coming re-appointment of Junior Ministers, Cllr. Kenneth O’Flynn has expressed his hope that the Taoiseach would consider making a cabinet reshuffle. Cllr O’Flynn said; “I am not advocating a Night of the Long Knifes or anything like that. I just feel that there are certain ministers who have progressed beyond their political sell by date.” Since the current cabinet came into existence there has been much public hostility towards the cabinet as a whole with hardly any minister escaping the wrath of either the press or the public. This is something that Cllr. O’Flynn says he has found at first hand on the canvasses he has been conducting since his cooption in December. On this the councillor said; “There are some very weak links in the ministerial chain, I have found that the public sentiments agree with this.”
Cllr. O’Flynn went on to say; “There are a lot of untapped talents on the back benches that I think that it can be drawn from. I think that the Taoiseach could take bold steps in appointing not only those long serving TD’s who have proven capable public servants, but younger backbenchers who can bring a new dynamic to politics.” In closing the councillor supported the action being taken by the Taoiseach, to get Ireland back on its feet and to get the country working again; “We have had a boom. But all is not lost. We now need the type of leadership that promotes the entrepreneurs, perhaps in the green economy, which is an industry with limitless possibilities we need to be promoting small home-grown business. So that can grow into larger industry. Essentially what we need in this country is quick decisive leadership. Leadership that does not worry and is not concerned by popularity. The type of leadership that looks to the next generation, not to the next election.”
Prescription drugs now as big a danger as cannabis
Councilor Ken O’Flynn has called for a Garda crackdown on the illegal sale and abuse of prescription drugs. Councillor O’Flynn claimed that Gardai had told him that the practice of selling on legally obtained drugs was now a widespread problem in Cork and that it was only a matter of time before someone died as a result.
He called for new legislation to control the amount of drugs a person could legally carry. “If someone is in a nightclub with a months supply of a any drug it is a safe bet that they are not for personal use” he said “ the abuse of prescription drugs is now a major problem in Cork and we need to tackle it.
”He also urged Doctors to exercise greater care in handing out prescriptions. “Anyone can lose a prescription or a bottle of pills, but if they do so every week its time to alert the authorities”
Councillor O’Flynn has called for the setting up of a taskforce consisting of representatives from the Gardai, Doctors and Pharmacist to look at the most effective ways of tackling the problem.
The abuse and trafficking of prescription drugs, including painkillers and stimulants, has overtaken the use of nearly all illegal drugs with the sole exception of cannabis, the United Nations drug control board has warned. The International Narcotics Control Board says the demand for painkillers, stimulants, sedatives and tranquillisers is so great that a global counterfeit market is rapidly developing. The INCB report says the problem is most intense in Brazil, Argentina, Korea, the US, Singapore and Hong Kong. Control measures have proved successful in France, Denmark and Chile
He called for new legislation to control the amount of drugs a person could legally carry. “If someone is in a nightclub with a months supply of a any drug it is a safe bet that they are not for personal use” he said “ the abuse of prescription drugs is now a major problem in Cork and we need to tackle it.
”He also urged Doctors to exercise greater care in handing out prescriptions. “Anyone can lose a prescription or a bottle of pills, but if they do so every week its time to alert the authorities”
Councillor O’Flynn has called for the setting up of a taskforce consisting of representatives from the Gardai, Doctors and Pharmacist to look at the most effective ways of tackling the problem.
The abuse and trafficking of prescription drugs, including painkillers and stimulants, has overtaken the use of nearly all illegal drugs with the sole exception of cannabis, the United Nations drug control board has warned. The International Narcotics Control Board says the demand for painkillers, stimulants, sedatives and tranquillisers is so great that a global counterfeit market is rapidly developing. The INCB report says the problem is most intense in Brazil, Argentina, Korea, the US, Singapore and Hong Kong. Control measures have proved successful in France, Denmark and Chile
Dog Licensing
COUNCILLOR Kenneth O’Flynn has called on the Minister for Agriculture to scrap the current dog licensing system and replace it with a more modern, effective and technology driven system.
Speaking with journalists Cllr O’Flynn said that he would be in favour of the current system being replaced with the compulsory chipping of dogs instead which would act as a one off licence.
“At present Ireland has one of the highest rates in Europe for destroying animals who are both without owners or that information regarding their ownership cannot be found.
“Microchips for pets are about the size of a rice grain and are placed beneath the skin at a specific point by injection. Encoded on a the chip is a specific code number unique to the pet which is registered along with details of it’s breed, sex, age and most importantly the owners name, address and telephone numbers.”
The Fianna Fáil councillor believes that this will make people more accountable with their pets and provide better security in the event of a dog going missing.
“Micro-chipping is a simple and effective way to make sure that your pet can be easily identified should you become separated.”
Cllr O’Flynn said that he believes this new system will help to make people more responsible for their pets and eliminate the licensing system which is “no longer viable in the modern world”.
Speaking with journalists Cllr O’Flynn said that he would be in favour of the current system being replaced with the compulsory chipping of dogs instead which would act as a one off licence.
“At present Ireland has one of the highest rates in Europe for destroying animals who are both without owners or that information regarding their ownership cannot be found.
“Microchips for pets are about the size of a rice grain and are placed beneath the skin at a specific point by injection. Encoded on a the chip is a specific code number unique to the pet which is registered along with details of it’s breed, sex, age and most importantly the owners name, address and telephone numbers.”
The Fianna Fáil councillor believes that this will make people more accountable with their pets and provide better security in the event of a dog going missing.
“Micro-chipping is a simple and effective way to make sure that your pet can be easily identified should you become separated.”
Cllr O’Flynn said that he believes this new system will help to make people more responsible for their pets and eliminate the licensing system which is “no longer viable in the modern world”.
North side needs a fair deal
COUNCILLOR Kenneth O’Flynn has called on the Minister for Health to give a guarantee that following the transfer of services from St Mary’s Orthopaedic Hospital to the Cork University Hospital, the site at Gurranabraher will not be left unused.
“I have asked Minister Harney to guarantee that the hospital in Gurranabraher will not be left idle and that it will continued to have a purpose and serve the people of the City.
“What I have suggested is that the hospital be transformed into an accident and emergency unit, which would specialise in the care of stroke victims and those who have suffered heart attacks.
“Establishing the severity of the cases and stabilising the patients would either see them transferred from the hospital to CUH or continue to receive the care they need at the Gurranabraher site.
“If there is an argument to be made that what is being done is to save on money, believe me, I will make the argument that you cannot put a price on people’s health.
“This is a great opportunity for the Government to assist the people in getting the facilities they need as well as further expanding the fight against heart attacks and strokes and giving victims they care which they deserve and are entitled to,” he said.
“I have asked Minister Harney to guarantee that the hospital in Gurranabraher will not be left idle and that it will continued to have a purpose and serve the people of the City.
“What I have suggested is that the hospital be transformed into an accident and emergency unit, which would specialise in the care of stroke victims and those who have suffered heart attacks.
“Establishing the severity of the cases and stabilising the patients would either see them transferred from the hospital to CUH or continue to receive the care they need at the Gurranabraher site.
“If there is an argument to be made that what is being done is to save on money, believe me, I will make the argument that you cannot put a price on people’s health.
“This is a great opportunity for the Government to assist the people in getting the facilities they need as well as further expanding the fight against heart attacks and strokes and giving victims they care which they deserve and are entitled to,” he said.
Work placement programme should be re-examined
NORTH side councillor Kenneth O’Flynn has called upon the Minister for Enterprise Trade and Innovation to re-examine the Work Placement Programme which is currently being operated by FÁS.
“The Work Placement Programme offers unemployed people, including unemployed graduates, the opportunity to obtain nine months work experience while on a work placement with a company. While on the work placement participants retain their social welfare status and entitlements.
“At present the programme is divided between WPP1 for unemployed graduates who have attained a full award at level seven or above on the National Framework of Qualifications. WPP2 is aimed towards unemployed people who have not attained a full award at level seven or above on the National Framework of Qualifications.
“As it stands at present there is a three to one uptake in the programme by WPP1 over WPP2.
“Hardly a week goes by when people come to me to and ask about this programme and express an interest in partaking in it. The majority of these people would fit into the WPP2 category; however they do not pick up on it, as they cannot meet the costs that go with work such as food and transport.
“That is why I have called upon the Minister to introduce a food and transport allowance to go with the scheme to encourage more people to partake in it.”
“The WPP is designed to offer unemployed people, the opportunity to obtain a number of months work experience in a work situation. Participants gain experience so they can gain experience so that they can keep their skills fresh and relevant to the job market.
“For recent graduates, they have an opportunity to apply their skill in a work situation and to get real work experience to add to their qualification.”
Cllr O’Flynn encouraged anyone interested in availing of the scheme to contact their local FÁS office or to visit www.fas.ie.
“The Work Placement Programme offers unemployed people, including unemployed graduates, the opportunity to obtain nine months work experience while on a work placement with a company. While on the work placement participants retain their social welfare status and entitlements.
“At present the programme is divided between WPP1 for unemployed graduates who have attained a full award at level seven or above on the National Framework of Qualifications. WPP2 is aimed towards unemployed people who have not attained a full award at level seven or above on the National Framework of Qualifications.
“As it stands at present there is a three to one uptake in the programme by WPP1 over WPP2.
“Hardly a week goes by when people come to me to and ask about this programme and express an interest in partaking in it. The majority of these people would fit into the WPP2 category; however they do not pick up on it, as they cannot meet the costs that go with work such as food and transport.
“That is why I have called upon the Minister to introduce a food and transport allowance to go with the scheme to encourage more people to partake in it.”
“The WPP is designed to offer unemployed people, the opportunity to obtain a number of months work experience in a work situation. Participants gain experience so they can gain experience so that they can keep their skills fresh and relevant to the job market.
“For recent graduates, they have an opportunity to apply their skill in a work situation and to get real work experience to add to their qualification.”
Cllr O’Flynn encouraged anyone interested in availing of the scheme to contact their local FÁS office or to visit www.fas.ie.
Dog Breeding Bill
COUNCILLOR Kenneth O’Flynn has called on the Minister for the Environment, John Gormley to reconsider the changing aspects of his controversial dog-breeding bill to allow some leeway for the greyhound industry.
The Fianna Fáil councillor said, “In it’s present form the Bill set’s to wipe clean the Greyhound industry as we know it. I have spoken to many owners and trainers who say that at in its present incarnation the bill will destroy greyhound racing in this country.
“The greyhound industry employs 11,000 people and it is worth €250 million to the economy each year. I think to cripple a profitable industry that is a pleasure to many and a livelihood to thousands is nothing short of inept and stupid.
“As a dog lover and owner of a champion Saint Bernard, I oppose these puppy farms and the way animals are housed in appalling conditions bred purely for commercial gain and riddled with all kinds of diseases and illnesses. It is about time we called up these backstreet dog breeders and held them to account.
“In doing so we cannot afford to alienate the people who breed dogs for hunting and racing and who do so in the best of conditions and have the beast intentions of the dogs in mind and only wish to ensure they give the best performance.
“Minister Gormley has hijacked the good work of prior Ministers for the Environment that sought to regulate the unacceptable situation on commercial dog breeding establishments. The Minister has twisted the legislation to encompass hunt kennels which he himself described as having strict standards and thus would be exempt from the legislation.
“To many it seems Minister Gormley is seeking to use this legislation to close down well run hunt kennels to inflict his autocratic will to finish off field sports in Ireland.
“Many felt Minister Gormley is behaving a dictatorial fashion driven by his extreme animal rights belief, making him more suited to a theological republic such as Iran, as opposed to a democracy. Hopefully last nights meeting will make him see sense,” he said.
The Fianna Fáil councillor said, “In it’s present form the Bill set’s to wipe clean the Greyhound industry as we know it. I have spoken to many owners and trainers who say that at in its present incarnation the bill will destroy greyhound racing in this country.
“The greyhound industry employs 11,000 people and it is worth €250 million to the economy each year. I think to cripple a profitable industry that is a pleasure to many and a livelihood to thousands is nothing short of inept and stupid.
“As a dog lover and owner of a champion Saint Bernard, I oppose these puppy farms and the way animals are housed in appalling conditions bred purely for commercial gain and riddled with all kinds of diseases and illnesses. It is about time we called up these backstreet dog breeders and held them to account.
“In doing so we cannot afford to alienate the people who breed dogs for hunting and racing and who do so in the best of conditions and have the beast intentions of the dogs in mind and only wish to ensure they give the best performance.
“Minister Gormley has hijacked the good work of prior Ministers for the Environment that sought to regulate the unacceptable situation on commercial dog breeding establishments. The Minister has twisted the legislation to encompass hunt kennels which he himself described as having strict standards and thus would be exempt from the legislation.
“To many it seems Minister Gormley is seeking to use this legislation to close down well run hunt kennels to inflict his autocratic will to finish off field sports in Ireland.
“Many felt Minister Gormley is behaving a dictatorial fashion driven by his extreme animal rights belief, making him more suited to a theological republic such as Iran, as opposed to a democracy. Hopefully last nights meeting will make him see sense,” he said.
St Anne’s graffiti
FIANNA Fáil councillor Kenneth O’Flynn has said he is delighted that following representations on his behalf to Cork City Council work will be carried out on St Anne’s Park Shandon to have graffiti removed.
Cllr O’Flynn said, “I wrote to the council and asked them to utilise the youth offender’s taskforce which is being deployed via RAPID, to have this cleaning work carried out”.
In relation to one particular piece of graffiti on the wall of Saint Anne’s Church which says “IRA”, Cllr O’Flynn said, “That slogan is nothing short of sectarian and offensive not just to the congregation of the chapel, but to tourists who see this kind of villainous drivel plastered on the walls of public buildings and especially upon one of the cities most historic and most recognisable buildings”.
Cllr O’Flynn praised the council in having the park opened as to the public and said that the work done by all the staff involved was highly commendable, “now that by removing the graffiti on the church and the headstones in the park, it will go a long way to having Shandon continue in developing as Cork city’s premier tourist area,” he said.
Cllr O’Flynn said, “I wrote to the council and asked them to utilise the youth offender’s taskforce which is being deployed via RAPID, to have this cleaning work carried out”.
In relation to one particular piece of graffiti on the wall of Saint Anne’s Church which says “IRA”, Cllr O’Flynn said, “That slogan is nothing short of sectarian and offensive not just to the congregation of the chapel, but to tourists who see this kind of villainous drivel plastered on the walls of public buildings and especially upon one of the cities most historic and most recognisable buildings”.
Cllr O’Flynn praised the council in having the park opened as to the public and said that the work done by all the staff involved was highly commendable, “now that by removing the graffiti on the church and the headstones in the park, it will go a long way to having Shandon continue in developing as Cork city’s premier tourist area,” he said.
Youth cafe funding
FIANNA Fáil councillor Kenneth O’Flynn has welcomed the news that €1.5 million from dormant accounts funding is being made available by the Government to support both new and existing youth cafés throughout the country.
The majority of the funding will be awarded to the setting up of new youth cafés, with approximately 22 per cent of the funds going to the support of existing youth cafés that wish to improve or expand existing services or facilities.
Cllr O’Flynn said, “I welcome this news as a most positive step by central government in investing in young people and providing them with an alcohol and drug free, youth centred space”.
He also expressed his desire that Corkonians would in particular avail of funding to establish new youth cafés in Cork city, which he believes are key components in the fight against anti-social behaviour and in bolstering social inclusion.
The majority of the funding will be awarded to the setting up of new youth cafés, with approximately 22 per cent of the funds going to the support of existing youth cafés that wish to improve or expand existing services or facilities.
Cllr O’Flynn said, “I welcome this news as a most positive step by central government in investing in young people and providing them with an alcohol and drug free, youth centred space”.
He also expressed his desire that Corkonians would in particular avail of funding to establish new youth cafés in Cork city, which he believes are key components in the fight against anti-social behaviour and in bolstering social inclusion.
€10 million to be spent in The Glen
COUNCILLOR Kenneth O’Flynn has welcomed the news that €10 million will be spent in the Glen in the next two years.
This will include the demolishment of the Errigal Heights flats as well as the as the building of 58 new housing units.
Cllr O’Flynn said, “I am delighted with this news and think it is very good news for The Glen and the north side as a whole. Under the housing scheme, 43 three-bed units will be built, 12 two-bed units and three one-bedroom units.
“This will help revitalise the area and bring new people and families into the Glen community. I am particularly glad that work on the demolition will be carried out. “The flats in their current states have acted as a haven for anti-social behaviour and caused a great deal of stress and anxiety for local residents. Thankfully those days will shortly be behind us as the Glen continues to develop.
“This would not have happened without the continued work of local residents and I wish to pay tribute to the residents who have worked closely with me for the betterment of the Glen,” he said.
This will include the demolishment of the Errigal Heights flats as well as the as the building of 58 new housing units.
Cllr O’Flynn said, “I am delighted with this news and think it is very good news for The Glen and the north side as a whole. Under the housing scheme, 43 three-bed units will be built, 12 two-bed units and three one-bedroom units.
“This will help revitalise the area and bring new people and families into the Glen community. I am particularly glad that work on the demolition will be carried out. “The flats in their current states have acted as a haven for anti-social behaviour and caused a great deal of stress and anxiety for local residents. Thankfully those days will shortly be behind us as the Glen continues to develop.
“This would not have happened without the continued work of local residents and I wish to pay tribute to the residents who have worked closely with me for the betterment of the Glen,” he said.
No pot of gold at the end of the rainbow
FIANNA Fáil councillor Kenneth O’Flynn has called on the Minister for Enterprise to introduce legislation for the gold refinery companies that are advertising regularly in the media to seek proof of purchase when people submit gold to the company.
At present there has been an increase in burglaries relating to stolen gold jewellery and the north side councillor feels that the current system allows criminals to get away with having a market for their stolen goods that allows them to remain virtually anonymous.
Cllr O’Flynn said, “I believe that the current system is allowing thieves the anonymity they require to sell off the goods they steal without any questions being asked as to how they came into possession of the gold, or how they can prove ownership of the pieces.
“I feel to curb the rise in the stealing of these goods as well as a rise in the stealing of mobile phones for a similar scheme, proof of purchase should be a requirement and if this cannot be produced then the gold or mobile phone should not be bought by the company. I have written to the Minister and asked that legislation to this effect by implemented as soon as possible.
“Outside of the rise in burglaries pertaining to Cash4Gold in the UK cases have been taken against the company for undervaluing items. Various UK media organisations have undertaken trials of Cash4Gold’s UK service, and found their valuation greatly below the independently assessed fair market value.
“For instance, in November 2009, the BBC’s Newsbeat programme had gold valued by an independent gold bullion dealer in Mayfair, London, at around £300. Three jewellers in Hatton Garden then offered similar amounts for the same collection; Cash4Gold’s valuation cheque was for £63, raised to £100 when the researcher called to get their money back.”
Cllr O’Flynn added, “I’d like people to know that there is not pot of gold at the end of this rainbow”.
At present there has been an increase in burglaries relating to stolen gold jewellery and the north side councillor feels that the current system allows criminals to get away with having a market for their stolen goods that allows them to remain virtually anonymous.
Cllr O’Flynn said, “I believe that the current system is allowing thieves the anonymity they require to sell off the goods they steal without any questions being asked as to how they came into possession of the gold, or how they can prove ownership of the pieces.
“I feel to curb the rise in the stealing of these goods as well as a rise in the stealing of mobile phones for a similar scheme, proof of purchase should be a requirement and if this cannot be produced then the gold or mobile phone should not be bought by the company. I have written to the Minister and asked that legislation to this effect by implemented as soon as possible.
“Outside of the rise in burglaries pertaining to Cash4Gold in the UK cases have been taken against the company for undervaluing items. Various UK media organisations have undertaken trials of Cash4Gold’s UK service, and found their valuation greatly below the independently assessed fair market value.
“For instance, in November 2009, the BBC’s Newsbeat programme had gold valued by an independent gold bullion dealer in Mayfair, London, at around £300. Three jewellers in Hatton Garden then offered similar amounts for the same collection; Cash4Gold’s valuation cheque was for £63, raised to £100 when the researcher called to get their money back.”
Cllr O’Flynn added, “I’d like people to know that there is not pot of gold at the end of this rainbow”.
O’Flynn welcomes roads funding
FIANNA Fáil councillor Kenneth O’Flynn has welcomed the allocation of €751,800 under the 2010 national roads allocations for Cork city.
“Of this funding €10,000 will be allocated at the N20 Commons Inn junction, which is great news.
“Washington Street, Tivoli, Trafalgar Hill Patrick’s Quay and Bridge Street are just some of the other areas which are to benefit from the scheme.”
On the National Primary routes O’Flynn welcomed, “€329,400 which will be directed towards everyday maintenance costs while €13,000 will go to bridge maintenance and €57,000 to route lighting.
“This funding is significant and will have a very positive impact on the roads in Cork city. It is essential that, despite any public funding restraints, our roads are developed and maintained. It not only decreases journey times and increases the safety of drivers, it is also essential for our economic recovery,” concluded Councillor O’Flynn.
“Of this funding €10,000 will be allocated at the N20 Commons Inn junction, which is great news.
“Washington Street, Tivoli, Trafalgar Hill Patrick’s Quay and Bridge Street are just some of the other areas which are to benefit from the scheme.”
On the National Primary routes O’Flynn welcomed, “€329,400 which will be directed towards everyday maintenance costs while €13,000 will go to bridge maintenance and €57,000 to route lighting.
“This funding is significant and will have a very positive impact on the roads in Cork city. It is essential that, despite any public funding restraints, our roads are developed and maintained. It not only decreases journey times and increases the safety of drivers, it is also essential for our economic recovery,” concluded Councillor O’Flynn.
O’Flynn against lower speed limit plan
FIANNA Fáil councillor Kenneth O’Flynn has expressed his opposition regarding proposals by Cork City Council to introduce 30km/h speed limit within areas of the city centre.
Cllr O’Flynn said, “I am totally opposed to any moves by the Council to try and slow down traffic in the City Centre. I agree with reservations of the business community in the City that this will only further alienate people and give them yet another excuse to do their shopping in the suburbs.”
The plan which proposes to bring down the speed limit is at present being proposed for Patrick Street, Oliver Plunkett Street and all existing side streets off them, many of which are already pedestrianised during the day however City Council have not ruled out extending these plans to Grand Parade and South Mall.
Cllr O’Flynn said, “I am totally opposed to any moves by the Council to try and slow down traffic in the City Centre. I agree with reservations of the business community in the City that this will only further alienate people and give them yet another excuse to do their shopping in the suburbs.”
The plan which proposes to bring down the speed limit is at present being proposed for Patrick Street, Oliver Plunkett Street and all existing side streets off them, many of which are already pedestrianised during the day however City Council have not ruled out extending these plans to Grand Parade and South Mall.
Tourism committee proposal
FIANNA Fáil councillor Kenneth O’Flynn has called on the city manager to create an internal tourist committee for Cork City Council, of officials and elected representatives to make the city an attractive destination for tourists.
Cllr O’Flynn said, “Cork is a city with boundless possibilities for tourism and the recent opening Cork-Swansea ferry must be the rock upon which we build our success.
“At present the City has 13 festivals like the jazz and film which attract people from across the world and bring a huge amount of revenue for the city. Of course there is also a lot going on all year round to attract a variety of tastes and interests like the historical north side walk which takes people on an hour walk of the Shandon Street area with points of historical interest. Cork is spoiled for choice of quality restaurants, charming pubs, many offering music and good food.”
The Fianna Fáil Councillor also mentioned that the Opera House has a ready staple of quality entertainment and performances all year long as well as saying that the city is now a more attractive destination than ever for shoppers with the wide variety of shops that are open in the city.
Cllr O’Flynn concluded, “I would hope this committee if established would get out there and market the City and all of these things to those tourists coming from Swansea and attract them to spend time in Cork for a night or two when they get off the ferry”.
Cllr O’Flynn said, “Cork is a city with boundless possibilities for tourism and the recent opening Cork-Swansea ferry must be the rock upon which we build our success.
“At present the City has 13 festivals like the jazz and film which attract people from across the world and bring a huge amount of revenue for the city. Of course there is also a lot going on all year round to attract a variety of tastes and interests like the historical north side walk which takes people on an hour walk of the Shandon Street area with points of historical interest. Cork is spoiled for choice of quality restaurants, charming pubs, many offering music and good food.”
The Fianna Fáil Councillor also mentioned that the Opera House has a ready staple of quality entertainment and performances all year long as well as saying that the city is now a more attractive destination than ever for shoppers with the wide variety of shops that are open in the city.
Cllr O’Flynn concluded, “I would hope this committee if established would get out there and market the City and all of these things to those tourists coming from Swansea and attract them to spend time in Cork for a night or two when they get off the ferry”.
Senior citizens liaison officer
COUNCILLOR Kenneth O’Flynn has called on Cork City Council to reorganise their departments and introduce an official to deal exclusively with senior citizens.
Cllr O’Flynn said, “From doing my local clinics and meeting regularly with senior citizen groups, I find they experience a lot of confusion when dealing with City Council and feel that they are being bounced from pillar to post in dealing with various issues.
“I believe that a senior citizens liaison officer should be appointed to deal exclusively with the over 60s and give them a one stop shop when they are dealing on any issue with Cork City Council.
“With the senior citizen officer he or she would liaise with the various departments and cut out the confusion that older people experience and help make life easier for our elderly and improve the efficiency of Cork City Council.”
Cllr O’Flynn said that he hopes that if established the position of senior citizen liaison officer would be able to deal with issues such as housing allocation, housing maintenance, grants, waiver forms and other issues which effect older people in Cork
Cllr O’Flynn said, “From doing my local clinics and meeting regularly with senior citizen groups, I find they experience a lot of confusion when dealing with City Council and feel that they are being bounced from pillar to post in dealing with various issues.
“I believe that a senior citizens liaison officer should be appointed to deal exclusively with the over 60s and give them a one stop shop when they are dealing on any issue with Cork City Council.
“With the senior citizen officer he or she would liaise with the various departments and cut out the confusion that older people experience and help make life easier for our elderly and improve the efficiency of Cork City Council.”
Cllr O’Flynn said that he hopes that if established the position of senior citizen liaison officer would be able to deal with issues such as housing allocation, housing maintenance, grants, waiver forms and other issues which effect older people in Cork
City Council asked to cut rents
COUNCILLOR Kenneth O’Flynn has called on Cork City Council to reduce rents in line with the cuts which have been made to Social Welfare in the recent Budget. The Fianna Fáil Councillor said, “There is a number of people in Society who are solely dependant on Social Welfare and this cut however small it looks will significantly affect their standard of living. We in Cork City Council have a social duty to ensure that those in local authority Housing can afford to keep a roof over their head without incurring debt.
“Things are certainly going to get harder for people, it is our job here in the City to try and soften the blows and I think that we can begin by reducing the rent for those on Social Welfare.
“There is evidence cost of living is coming down in terms of grocery prices. I believe that the council now needs to its bit to help hard-pressed social welfare recipients and reduce the rent it charges for local authority housing.
“In the last year more than €20 billion has been taken out the Irish economy leading to job losses and company closures. It is the most challenging economic environment that any Government has faced in living memory.
“If we are to get through this recession we are going to have to all pull together and try to ensure that we minimize the pain for these least able to cope with it, therefore I am calling on the City Council to cut rents.
“We do need to look for savings in the council budget but I believe that should look for cuts in areas such as back office functions and admin rather in the areas which make a tangible difference to people lives,” he concluded.
“Things are certainly going to get harder for people, it is our job here in the City to try and soften the blows and I think that we can begin by reducing the rent for those on Social Welfare.
“There is evidence cost of living is coming down in terms of grocery prices. I believe that the council now needs to its bit to help hard-pressed social welfare recipients and reduce the rent it charges for local authority housing.
“In the last year more than €20 billion has been taken out the Irish economy leading to job losses and company closures. It is the most challenging economic environment that any Government has faced in living memory.
“If we are to get through this recession we are going to have to all pull together and try to ensure that we minimize the pain for these least able to cope with it, therefore I am calling on the City Council to cut rents.
“We do need to look for savings in the council budget but I believe that should look for cuts in areas such as back office functions and admin rather in the areas which make a tangible difference to people lives,” he concluded.
Windfall Tax will not affect sites for one off housing
SITES for one of housing with planning permission and land that is subject to a Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO) will not be affected by the new windfall tax that is being introduced by the Government, according to Cllr Kenneth O’Flynn.
Councillor O’Flynn moved to reassure people about this after receiving several queries from concerned constituents.
The windfall tax rate of 80 per will apply to the portion of the profit or gain which is attributable to a rezoning, where both the rezoning and sale of the land giving rise to the windfall happened after October 30, 2009.
“I think this is positive news and I’m glad to be able to clarify that the windfall tax rate will not apply to one off housing planning permissions or to land that is subject to a CPO,” said Cllr O’Flynn.
“A lot of people had been asking about this and there was clearly a lot of confusion about this particular subject,” he said.
“I really would not like to see any kind of tax fall on anyone who was looking to build on family land or anything like that. That would be a huge area of discrimination and would badly hit small, local landowners. Similarly anyone who was the subject of the CPO could find themselves doubly hit, not only would their land be disrupted but they would also not receive due payment for it,” he said.
“Thankfully this will not be the case in the windfall tax and I hope this will help set minds at ease,” concluded Cllr O’Flynn.
Councillor O’Flynn moved to reassure people about this after receiving several queries from concerned constituents.
The windfall tax rate of 80 per will apply to the portion of the profit or gain which is attributable to a rezoning, where both the rezoning and sale of the land giving rise to the windfall happened after October 30, 2009.
“I think this is positive news and I’m glad to be able to clarify that the windfall tax rate will not apply to one off housing planning permissions or to land that is subject to a CPO,” said Cllr O’Flynn.
“A lot of people had been asking about this and there was clearly a lot of confusion about this particular subject,” he said.
“I really would not like to see any kind of tax fall on anyone who was looking to build on family land or anything like that. That would be a huge area of discrimination and would badly hit small, local landowners. Similarly anyone who was the subject of the CPO could find themselves doubly hit, not only would their land be disrupted but they would also not receive due payment for it,” he said.
“Thankfully this will not be the case in the windfall tax and I hope this will help set minds at ease,” concluded Cllr O’Flynn.
Work soon to be complete at Military Cemetery Park
CLLR Kenneth O’Flynn has welcomed the announcement that work will be shortly be completed at Military Cemetery Park, The Glen.
“This work will be completed in the New Year at which point the park will become open to the Public.
“I think that projects like this which have taken place in Shandon, as well as here, show City Council’s determination to provide amenity areas to those disadvantaged areas of our city and allow them green recreation areas to enjoy.
“I hope that the park here in The Glen as well as its Shandon counterpart can be locomotives which drive projects like this elsewhere in the city”.
“This work will be completed in the New Year at which point the park will become open to the Public.
“I think that projects like this which have taken place in Shandon, as well as here, show City Council’s determination to provide amenity areas to those disadvantaged areas of our city and allow them green recreation areas to enjoy.
“I hope that the park here in The Glen as well as its Shandon counterpart can be locomotives which drive projects like this elsewhere in the city”.
O’Flynn calls for end to Third World aid
FIANNA Fáil city councillor Kenneth O’Flynn has called on the Government to cancel Irish state aid to the poorest countries in the world, because, he says the country cannot afford it in the current climate.
Cllr O’Flynn said, “Last year we paid €696 million in Foreign Aid. At present we are the sixth largest donor in the OECD per capita and with regards to the EU we are way above average and are ahead of France and Germany with regards to spending.
“To think then that we only need about €150 million then to ensure that the most vulnerable in society get their Christmas bonus while huge sums of money flow abroad to countries which we do not really have any obligation towards.
“And the government does not even seem willing to make commitments which ensure that we enjoy beneficial trade agreements with the developing world and the countries we are funding.”
Cllr O’Flynn added, “We do not have an Imperial past or suffer from any forms of post-colonial guilt. We therefore should not try to go out of our way to try and show how generous we are to the Third World.
“I find it a bit rich that those who plug these causes most, like Bono do not even pay significantly into the Irish Exchequer, but yet feel as if they are the moral conscience of the nation when it comes to overseas development aid.”
Cllr O’Flynn attacked what he said were double standards in high places, “Bono is well able to wax lyrical for people in every corner of Africa. But he might look at areas of Cork, Limerick and Dublin where as we speak Irish children suffer from the most gross and unjustifiable levels of poverty.
“And to be frank until we have our own house in order we should not have to concern ourselves with anyone else’s.”
While the Cllr O’Flynn praised the many Irish charities working internationally in the fight against poverty he said that the Government “has to focus its attentions to affairs at home”.
In conclusion Cllr O’Flynn said; “It is not the job of the Irish Government to line the pockets of tin pot dictatorships when children across the nation don’t even have a basic breakfast.
“Our doorways are cluttered with homeless people and our elderly suffer from shocking and appalling neglect. Essentially all I am saying we look after own children first.”
Cllr O’Flynn said, “Last year we paid €696 million in Foreign Aid. At present we are the sixth largest donor in the OECD per capita and with regards to the EU we are way above average and are ahead of France and Germany with regards to spending.
“To think then that we only need about €150 million then to ensure that the most vulnerable in society get their Christmas bonus while huge sums of money flow abroad to countries which we do not really have any obligation towards.
“And the government does not even seem willing to make commitments which ensure that we enjoy beneficial trade agreements with the developing world and the countries we are funding.”
Cllr O’Flynn added, “We do not have an Imperial past or suffer from any forms of post-colonial guilt. We therefore should not try to go out of our way to try and show how generous we are to the Third World.
“I find it a bit rich that those who plug these causes most, like Bono do not even pay significantly into the Irish Exchequer, but yet feel as if they are the moral conscience of the nation when it comes to overseas development aid.”
Cllr O’Flynn attacked what he said were double standards in high places, “Bono is well able to wax lyrical for people in every corner of Africa. But he might look at areas of Cork, Limerick and Dublin where as we speak Irish children suffer from the most gross and unjustifiable levels of poverty.
“And to be frank until we have our own house in order we should not have to concern ourselves with anyone else’s.”
While the Cllr O’Flynn praised the many Irish charities working internationally in the fight against poverty he said that the Government “has to focus its attentions to affairs at home”.
In conclusion Cllr O’Flynn said; “It is not the job of the Irish Government to line the pockets of tin pot dictatorships when children across the nation don’t even have a basic breakfast.
“Our doorways are cluttered with homeless people and our elderly suffer from shocking and appalling neglect. Essentially all I am saying we look after own children first.”
Anger at Spriggs Road lane closure
FIANNA Fáil councillor Kenneth O’Flynn has lashed out at Cork City Council over the recent lane closure between Spriggs Road and Temple Acre Avenue.
In what he calls “a bizarre” and “grotesque bumble” by Cork City Council, Cllr O’Flynn has called on council officials to admit, “That what they have done with this laneway closure is not a solution to a problem but rather an escalation of anti-Social behaviour in the area.”
Speaking about the work carried out Cllr O’Flynn said, “I was flabbergasted with what I saw here when I called up after I was alerted to the problem by concerned residents.”
At present the laneway closure consists of two metal fences between Temple Acre Avenue and Spriggs Road. The purpose of the closure was to eliminate anti-social activity which was taking place in the laneway.
According to Cllr O’Flynn, it has had the opposite effect, “You just have to look around you to see that what has happened here is the creation of a VIP Lounge for street drinking, drug use and other forms of anti-social activity.
“This is now an enclosed area where anti-social behaviour has been allowed to thrive and prosper and all of this was facilitated by poor planning on the part of Cork City Council.
“The area has already seen what poor planning by the council can achieve, there are at present flats de-tenanted before funding was allocated for regeneration work. As this work did not happen these flats were subjected to the most horrific forms of vandalism such as fires and illegal dumping.”
Cllr O’Flynn has pointed out that two houses on Temple Acre Avenue have been boarded up and are not capable of use as a consequence of anti-social behaviour.
In what he calls “a bizarre” and “grotesque bumble” by Cork City Council, Cllr O’Flynn has called on council officials to admit, “That what they have done with this laneway closure is not a solution to a problem but rather an escalation of anti-Social behaviour in the area.”
Speaking about the work carried out Cllr O’Flynn said, “I was flabbergasted with what I saw here when I called up after I was alerted to the problem by concerned residents.”
At present the laneway closure consists of two metal fences between Temple Acre Avenue and Spriggs Road. The purpose of the closure was to eliminate anti-social activity which was taking place in the laneway.
According to Cllr O’Flynn, it has had the opposite effect, “You just have to look around you to see that what has happened here is the creation of a VIP Lounge for street drinking, drug use and other forms of anti-social activity.
“This is now an enclosed area where anti-social behaviour has been allowed to thrive and prosper and all of this was facilitated by poor planning on the part of Cork City Council.
“The area has already seen what poor planning by the council can achieve, there are at present flats de-tenanted before funding was allocated for regeneration work. As this work did not happen these flats were subjected to the most horrific forms of vandalism such as fires and illegal dumping.”
Cllr O’Flynn has pointed out that two houses on Temple Acre Avenue have been boarded up and are not capable of use as a consequence of anti-social behaviour.
Cork councillor wants national curfew
A CORK councillor is calling for a curfew to be imposed on all under-17s after 10pm to combat anti-social behaviour.
Fianna Fáil councillor Kenneth O’Flynn who is the son of outspoken TD Noel O’Flynn said that he could not see why “any child under 17 would have any reason to be outside their home, or estate wandering the streets” after10pm.
Cllr O’Flynn is proposing the curfew idea which he says has been proven to work in Los Angeles following increasing levels of anti-social behaviour in his own Cork North Central ward.
According to Cllr O’Flynn local thugs are becoming increasingly brazen and show no regard for local residents or the gardaí. The problem has developed to such an extent that the culprits are evening posting You Tube videos of their exploits on the internet.
One video recorded in the Spriggs Road area of Cork shows thugs joyriding and evading Gardaí as well as starting fires next to people’s homes.
One mother who did not want to be named told the Irish Mail on Sunday, “There have been six cars burnt out around here this year. I have young children and they are terrified by what goes on. They are drinking and then they smash the bottles on the ground, there is drug dealing, you can see them taking the money”.
According to the woman the latest craze is to put firecrackers through letterboxes and in wheelie bins, there have even been incidents where thugs have tried to ignite oil tanks right next to houses.
“The gardaí do their best but they just don’t have the manpower. A curfew is a brilliant idea or they should be tagged like they are in England. Something has to be done, because the parents just don’t care,” she said.
Cllr O’Flynn added, “It is about time we made parents responsible for their children. Parents should know at all times where their children are.
“People are being terrorised in their homes by gangs of youths. I know several elderly people who are afraid to answer their doors after five in the evening. This is a deplorable situation”.
Cllr O’Flynn said introducing a curfew would free up garda time and vital funds for city and county councils who have to spend taxpayer’s money to block up laneways and clean up the aftermath of anti-social behaviour.
He added that those caught breaking the curfew should be fined a minimum €500 which should be imposed on the parents and “taken directly from salary or social welfare payments”.
Fianna Fáil councillor Kenneth O’Flynn who is the son of outspoken TD Noel O’Flynn said that he could not see why “any child under 17 would have any reason to be outside their home, or estate wandering the streets” after10pm.
Cllr O’Flynn is proposing the curfew idea which he says has been proven to work in Los Angeles following increasing levels of anti-social behaviour in his own Cork North Central ward.
According to Cllr O’Flynn local thugs are becoming increasingly brazen and show no regard for local residents or the gardaí. The problem has developed to such an extent that the culprits are evening posting You Tube videos of their exploits on the internet.
One video recorded in the Spriggs Road area of Cork shows thugs joyriding and evading Gardaí as well as starting fires next to people’s homes.
One mother who did not want to be named told the Irish Mail on Sunday, “There have been six cars burnt out around here this year. I have young children and they are terrified by what goes on. They are drinking and then they smash the bottles on the ground, there is drug dealing, you can see them taking the money”.
According to the woman the latest craze is to put firecrackers through letterboxes and in wheelie bins, there have even been incidents where thugs have tried to ignite oil tanks right next to houses.
“The gardaí do their best but they just don’t have the manpower. A curfew is a brilliant idea or they should be tagged like they are in England. Something has to be done, because the parents just don’t care,” she said.
Cllr O’Flynn added, “It is about time we made parents responsible for their children. Parents should know at all times where their children are.
“People are being terrorised in their homes by gangs of youths. I know several elderly people who are afraid to answer their doors after five in the evening. This is a deplorable situation”.
Cllr O’Flynn said introducing a curfew would free up garda time and vital funds for city and county councils who have to spend taxpayer’s money to block up laneways and clean up the aftermath of anti-social behaviour.
He added that those caught breaking the curfew should be fined a minimum €500 which should be imposed on the parents and “taken directly from salary or social welfare payments”.
O’Flynn calls on board of CIE to be sacked
FIANNA Fáil city councillor Kenneth O’Flynn has accused the Board of CIE of “monumental deception”.
Cllr O’Flynn said CIE of attempting to cover up an internal report into the workings of Iarnrod Éireann.
Cllr O’Flynn said, “The report highlights the loss of EU funds for breach of procurement rules, that missing documents are the norm, that collusion between Iarnrod Éireann staff and outside contractors is widespread, that manipulation of tenders is rife, that fraud, false invoices and gross misadventure all feature.”
“As a result of this, European funds may be clawed back, competitors who lost out in rigged tenders may sue for millions, not to mention reputational damage.”
He added, “It would be shut down in the morning. The entire affair is a scandal on a scale similar to that which took place in FÁS earlier in the year.
Cllr O’Flynn said CIE of attempting to cover up an internal report into the workings of Iarnrod Éireann.
Cllr O’Flynn said, “The report highlights the loss of EU funds for breach of procurement rules, that missing documents are the norm, that collusion between Iarnrod Éireann staff and outside contractors is widespread, that manipulation of tenders is rife, that fraud, false invoices and gross misadventure all feature.”
“As a result of this, European funds may be clawed back, competitors who lost out in rigged tenders may sue for millions, not to mention reputational damage.”
He added, “It would be shut down in the morning. The entire affair is a scandal on a scale similar to that which took place in FÁS earlier in the year.
O’Flynn tops the poll in election to Fianna Fáil governing body
IN a recent election for the Fianna Fáil Ard Chomhairle, Cork based Councillor Kenneth O’Flynn topped the poll in Munster and received the most votes of any councillor nationally.
Running for the Munster Councillor’s Representative, O’Flynn put in a hard fought and very professional campaign to get elected to his Party’s governing body. After a phone and letter writing campaign which impressed many Munster councillors many of whom normally are unaware of the position even existed, O’Flynn reaped the rewards of his hard work and was elected.
Speaking about his election the Cork based Councillor said, “I am delighted that I got elected. I am delighted to have the opportunity to reflect the interests of Councillors in Munster. It is a huge honour to serve on the highest body of the Fianna Fáil Party and one that gives me a great sense of pride as a lifelong member of the Party.”
The Fianna Fáil Ard Chomhairle is the governing body of the Fianna Fáil organisation. It is chaired by An Uachtaráin Fianna Fáil, Brian Cowen and has members representing each Dáil constituency in the country, members of Ógra Fianna Fáil, 20 people from across the island of Ireland who were elected at the Party’s Ard Fhéis and four councillors from each of the provinces.”
Running for the Munster Councillor’s Representative, O’Flynn put in a hard fought and very professional campaign to get elected to his Party’s governing body. After a phone and letter writing campaign which impressed many Munster councillors many of whom normally are unaware of the position even existed, O’Flynn reaped the rewards of his hard work and was elected.
Speaking about his election the Cork based Councillor said, “I am delighted that I got elected. I am delighted to have the opportunity to reflect the interests of Councillors in Munster. It is a huge honour to serve on the highest body of the Fianna Fáil Party and one that gives me a great sense of pride as a lifelong member of the Party.”
The Fianna Fáil Ard Chomhairle is the governing body of the Fianna Fáil organisation. It is chaired by An Uachtaráin Fianna Fáil, Brian Cowen and has members representing each Dáil constituency in the country, members of Ógra Fianna Fáil, 20 people from across the island of Ireland who were elected at the Party’s Ard Fhéis and four councillors from each of the provinces.”
Vacant property salvage scheme proposed
FIANNA Fáil Cork City councillor Kenneth O’Flynn has called for the establishment of a vacant property salvage scheme to reduce Cork City Council’s housing list by 2,000 people.
Cllr O’Flynn said, “In these turbulent economic times the city council’s resources are increasingly strained but it is vital that we continue to focus on helping the most vulnerable in society.
“Today I placed a motion that will come before the new city council to introduce a vacant property salvage scheme which seeks to bring hundreds of empty houses across the city back into immediate use through temporarily relaxing regulations and reconfiguring terms of contracts between tenants and Cork City Council.
“I am proposing that a new type of tenancy agreement be made optional to the almost 6,000 people on the Cork city housing list.
“This tenancy agreement shall allow tenants to take over the obligation of refitting their new homes, which was previously the responsibility of the city council.
“Over my recent canvass I have met a number of people with members of their family willing to help redecorate or in some cases refit council properties just so the member of their family will be housed,” he concluded.
Cllr O’Flynn said, “In these turbulent economic times the city council’s resources are increasingly strained but it is vital that we continue to focus on helping the most vulnerable in society.
“Today I placed a motion that will come before the new city council to introduce a vacant property salvage scheme which seeks to bring hundreds of empty houses across the city back into immediate use through temporarily relaxing regulations and reconfiguring terms of contracts between tenants and Cork City Council.
“I am proposing that a new type of tenancy agreement be made optional to the almost 6,000 people on the Cork city housing list.
“This tenancy agreement shall allow tenants to take over the obligation of refitting their new homes, which was previously the responsibility of the city council.
“Over my recent canvass I have met a number of people with members of their family willing to help redecorate or in some cases refit council properties just so the member of their family will be housed,” he concluded.
Housing Bill amendment welcomed
FIANNA Fáil councillor Kenneth O’Flynn has welcomed an amendment to the Miscellaneous Housing Bill allowing tenants in local authority apartments to purchase their own properties.
Cllr O’Flynn said, “On my recent canvass this issue kept coming up and at last the now tenants will have the right to buy their homes with the legal reform in this area”.
Interested applicants should complete the Tenant Purchase Application form and return same to the Housing Department.
On receipt of completed application form, the Council will arrange for a valuation of the house with the Council’s appointed valuer.
The price of the house / apartment will be its market value, as determined by the Council, in its existing state of repair and condition, less discounts.
Cllr O’Flynn concluded, “This is a great way of giving people a leg on the property ladder and giving them the security of knowing they own their own home”.
Cllr O’Flynn said, “On my recent canvass this issue kept coming up and at last the now tenants will have the right to buy their homes with the legal reform in this area”.
Interested applicants should complete the Tenant Purchase Application form and return same to the Housing Department.
On receipt of completed application form, the Council will arrange for a valuation of the house with the Council’s appointed valuer.
The price of the house / apartment will be its market value, as determined by the Council, in its existing state of repair and condition, less discounts.
Cllr O’Flynn concluded, “This is a great way of giving people a leg on the property ladder and giving them the security of knowing they own their own home”.
Planning extension welcomed
FIANNA Fáil councillor Kenneth O’Flynn has welcomed a commitment from the Minister for the Environment, John Gormley to extend the current five-year timeframe in which people who have been granted planning permission must commence building.
Cllr O’Flynn said he has been pushing for a number of months for the inclusion of a section in the new Planning and Development Bill extending the five-year time limit of planning permission.
“In the current economic climate it is vital that people who have struggled hard to get planning permission and now find that they cannot get a loan are not penalised because the permission will lapsed,” he said.
Cllr O’Flynn said he has been pushing for a number of months for the inclusion of a section in the new Planning and Development Bill extending the five-year time limit of planning permission.
“In the current economic climate it is vital that people who have struggled hard to get planning permission and now find that they cannot get a loan are not penalised because the permission will lapsed,” he said.
Call for campaign to tackle dog fouling
CITY councillor, Ken O’ Flynn has called on Cork City Council to launch a sweeping campaign against irresponsible dog owners who allow their pets to foul in public.
He said the council should aim to catch the culprits on CCTV, issue them with €150 on the spot fines, then name and shame them in the local press.
“We should be using CCTV to catch the culprits and will issue them with on the spot fines. If they don’t pay up, we won’t hesitate to take them to court and, furthermore, will name and shame them in the press,” he said.
He said the council should aim to catch the culprits on CCTV, issue them with €150 on the spot fines, then name and shame them in the local press.
“We should be using CCTV to catch the culprits and will issue them with on the spot fines. If they don’t pay up, we won’t hesitate to take them to court and, furthermore, will name and shame them in the press,” he said.
Cork parents urged to claim back to school allowance
PARENTS across Cork are being urged to ensure they check their eligibility for the back to school allowance and get their applications in for grants as soon as possible.
The call comes from City councilor, Kenneth O’ Flynn who said that many people who are struggling with the costs of sending their children back to school are not aware that they qualify for the Back to School clothing and footware allowance.
“The back to school allowance is one of the most under-claimed of all HSE payments and families who badly need it are not even aware it exists. I am currently notifying as many homes in the city as possible to try to ensure a maximum uptake of the allowance.
“Already I have met many parents who have told me how difficult they are finding it to kit out their children for the return to school. The 200 or 350 euros, depending on the age of the child, has made a huge difference to them,” he said.
Cllr O’ Flynn advised that the qualify, parents must already be in receipt of a HSE or social welfare payment in respect of their children, such as Family Income Supplement or the job seekers allowance.
“The fact that such people are in social welfare or community welfare offices regularly and are still not being made aware of this payment is very disappointing in with the HSE communicate with the vulnerable in society . The allowance can be claimed from 1 of June to 30 of September so there is still time to claim and we would urge anyone who thinks they may qualify To apply, fill in a Back to School Clothing and Footwear Allowance form (pdf). You can also get a form at your local health centre or text FORM BTSCFA followed by your name and address to 51909,” he said.
The call comes from City councilor, Kenneth O’ Flynn who said that many people who are struggling with the costs of sending their children back to school are not aware that they qualify for the Back to School clothing and footware allowance.
“The back to school allowance is one of the most under-claimed of all HSE payments and families who badly need it are not even aware it exists. I am currently notifying as many homes in the city as possible to try to ensure a maximum uptake of the allowance.
“Already I have met many parents who have told me how difficult they are finding it to kit out their children for the return to school. The 200 or 350 euros, depending on the age of the child, has made a huge difference to them,” he said.
Cllr O’ Flynn advised that the qualify, parents must already be in receipt of a HSE or social welfare payment in respect of their children, such as Family Income Supplement or the job seekers allowance.
“The fact that such people are in social welfare or community welfare offices regularly and are still not being made aware of this payment is very disappointing in with the HSE communicate with the vulnerable in society . The allowance can be claimed from 1 of June to 30 of September so there is still time to claim and we would urge anyone who thinks they may qualify To apply, fill in a Back to School Clothing and Footwear Allowance form (pdf). You can also get a form at your local health centre or text FORM BTSCFA followed by your name and address to 51909,” he said.
Bring back the bottle deposit
NORTH Central election candidate Kenneth O’Flynn has raised an interesting vote getting idea, the return of deposits on glass bottles.
The Fianna Fáil councillor says that broken bottles are endangering children and littering the streets and now is the time to bring back deposits to encourage recycling and help clean up Cork
“Broken bottles pose a serious health risk to young children and are an unsightly eyesore,” he said “it is time for drinks manufacturers to accept responsibility for the bottles they use and to re-introduce a deposit system to encourage recycling and responsible behaviour”
“If the drinks companies do not do so I will be writing to the Minister for the Environment, John Gormley TD to ask him to bring in legislation to force them to do so,” he concluded.
The Fianna Fáil councillor says that broken bottles are endangering children and littering the streets and now is the time to bring back deposits to encourage recycling and help clean up Cork
“Broken bottles pose a serious health risk to young children and are an unsightly eyesore,” he said “it is time for drinks manufacturers to accept responsibility for the bottles they use and to re-introduce a deposit system to encourage recycling and responsible behaviour”
“If the drinks companies do not do so I will be writing to the Minister for the Environment, John Gormley TD to ask him to bring in legislation to force them to do so,” he concluded.
Calls for directly Elected Mayors
FIANNA Fáil councillor Kenneth O’Flynn has called on Minister for the Environment, John Gormley to introduce directly elected Mayor’s for all cities in Ireland.
Cllr O’Flynn said, “The days of ceremonial figures has come to an end. In my view Cork needs a directly elected mayor with real powers and an advisory cabinet to assist them. There is far too much power in the hands of unelected officials who are not directly accountable to the people of Cork.”
Cllr O’Flynn added that a directly elected mayor would have powers to work with Gardai, Fire Brigade, transport authority and city officials and would have powers similar to those of the executive committee in a Leader and
Cllr O’Flynn said, “The days of ceremonial figures has come to an end. In my view Cork needs a directly elected mayor with real powers and an advisory cabinet to assist them. There is far too much power in the hands of unelected officials who are not directly accountable to the people of Cork.”
Cllr O’Flynn added that a directly elected mayor would have powers to work with Gardai, Fire Brigade, transport authority and city officials and would have powers similar to those of the executive committee in a Leader and
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