Killeen Attends Task Force Meeting On Emergency Planning

Mid West T.D. and Minister for Defence, Tony Killeen today chaired his first meeting of the Government Task Force on Emergency Planning at the National Emergency Coordination Centre.

The Task Force is the high level group which is made up of the Ministers and/or senior officials of all Government Departments and key public authorities that meets to share information and to assist coordination of emergency planning across Government. There have been a number of incidents in a short space of time, the pork dioxin crisis, the flu pandemic, flooding, snow and ice and the volcanic ash.

This morning the Task Force received an update from the Department of Transport in relation to the management of the volcanic ash situation.

Minister Killeen acknowledged the speedy response of all of the relevant Departments and Agencies to the crisis.

He noted that the National Emergency Coordination Centre was activated and that a Volcanic Ash Task Force was established and met on the day that the situation arose. He also noted that regular coordination meetings that have taken place since then chaired by the Department of Transport, and he said that the updates and briefings provided have helped to keep the public up-to-date and should continue to be managed in a coordinated way.

The Task Force was also briefed on the flooding and severe weather emergencies that occurred in late 2009 and early 2010.

Minister Killeen paid tribute to the Principal Response Agencies, the Defence Forces, Civil Defence, other voluntary groups and local communities who had worked tirelessly to alleviate the worst effects of these events.

He said that, as in all emergency situations, lessons can be learned.

The Minister noted that the relevant Departments and Agencies are carrying out reviews of how they responded to these weather events and he looked forward to considering these at Task Force.

Minister Killeen said: “I would urge all Departments to implement any recommendations arising from their reviews as soon as possible.”

Iarnród Eireann Submits Funding Request For Crusheen Rail Stop

A local developer has offered to make land available for a car park and railway station in Crusheen, Clare T.D. and Minister Tony Killeen has said.

Minister Killeen said he has received confirmation from Iarnród Eireann Chief Executive Richard Fearn that it has received substantial interest in the possibility of reopening the North Clare railway station, which is located along the route of the recently opened Western Rail Corridor.

The company has also confirmed it has submitted an application for funding to develop the station.

He said he reminded Mr. Fearn that considerable information has been collated by the local community in Crusheen, with considerable assistance from Clare County Council, regarding the potential future use of the proposed rail stop.

“This information along with undertakings relating to the provision of adequate car parking facilities at the platform in Crusheen has been submitted to Iarnród Éireann. In light of the credible case for reopening of the station, I have requested the company to review the potential for the establishment of a rail stop at Crusheen”, explained Minister Killeen.

He noted there remained a strong case for the provision of a rail stop in Crusheen.

“Two stops are being provided for between Gort and Athenry and none on the very long stretch of railway between Ennis to Gort. Crusheen is an ideal location for people coming from Ruan, Corofin, Tubber, Boston and elsewhere in North Clare as well as Tulla and other areas of East Clare", concluded Minister Killeen.

In a letter to the Minister, the Chief Executive of Iarnród Éireann outlined: "Whilst Crusheen was not included in the Transport 21 investment programme for the route (Limerick to Galway line), there has since been substantial interest in the possibility of reopening the station”.

The CEO continued: “…a local developer is prepared to make some land available for a station and car park, and Clare County Council has agreed to cooperate with the scheme. The Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs have indicated that they may provide CLAR funding for the station and Iarnród Eireann has submitted a formal application for the funding this year”.

Fire Officers Seek Renewed Government Investment In Service

Mr. Michael Finneran T.D. Minister for State at the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government, this morning officially opened the Chief Fire Officers Association (CFOA) annual conference at which he was told that continued Government investment in the sector is critical to the delivery of efficient frontline services.

Ireland’s 30 Chief Fire Officers and estimated 120 Senior Fire Officers have gathered at the Radisson Blu Hotel in County Clare for the first day of their two-day annual conference, which will be addressed by a number of international experts in the emergency services sector.

Addressing conference delegates today, CFOA Chairperson and Galway Chief Fire Officer Michael Raftery said there was a myriad of issues in the fire service and fire safety area that were in urgent need of being addressed.

He explained: “The CFOA is seeking a review building control regulations introduced by the Department in October 2009, the establishment of national fire cover standards to maximise emergency responses throughout Ireland, a review of legislation for the policing and licensing of large indoor events, and the development of national standards to ensure all local authority services are providing the same level of public service.”

“A robust system of funding will have to be provided to deliver the expected service and a Fire-Fighter/Fire Officer development system in put in place to drive the necessary change to reform and deliver a renewed Irish Fire Service. The health and safety agenda will also have to be underpinned”, added Mr. Raftery.

Commenting on proposals outlined under the national public service pay deal 2010-2014 to shrink the number of public servants by approximately 10%, Mr. Raftery stated: “We welcome the fact the Department has approved all current requests by local fire authorities to fill local Fire-Fighter and Fire Officer vacancies and promotional opportunities to date. The CFOA urges Local Authorities to fill any current senior fire officer vacancies including Chief Fire Officers and submit such requests to the Department for approval.”

Among the other topics to be discussed at the Conference later today and tomorrow will be the role of the Fire Service in Emergency Medical Services, encouraging behavioural change in people to improve fire safety, the progression of the new National Directorate for Fire and Emergency Management, and the challenges facing the Emergency Services across the European Union.

Keynote speaker during the two-day conference will be Alan Merry, New Zealand's Fire Services Principal Advisor on Fire Risk Management, who will set the scene on international change and innovation.

Sean Hogan of the National Directorate for Fire and Emergency Management will discuss the Directorate’s role in developing Fire Services and Emergency Management in Ireland, Ger Dollard of Clare County Council will discuss the local authority’s response to recent flooding in the County, and Fire and Safety Consultant Dr. Ray Connolly will present “A Perspective On The Future For An Bord Pleanala As The Final Arbitrator Of Fire Safety Design In Ireland”.

The annual showcase event for Ireland’s Fire and Emergency Services sector also features a Fire Industry and Technology Exhibition that includes 52 internal trade stands and 17 outdoor exhibits.

The CFOA comprises the Chief Fire Officers of Ireland’s 34 Local Authorities. The Association is also a member of the Federation of European Fire officers Associations and attends their twice yearly meetings.

For more visit www.cfoa.net.

Tri3 Series Launched By Sports AI

Sports AI, the sports management company that managed the visit of Muhammad Ali to Ennis last summer, have today announced that they will bring the Tri3 Triathlon Series to Ireland this year.

The first of the three races is set for Galway City and is expected to attract 750 competitors and over 2000 spectators to the Tribal City with an injection of over €250,000 in to the local economy.

Commenting at the launch of the Tri3 Triathlon Series today, co- founder of Sports AI, former Clare Hurling All Star Tony Griffin said: “We are delighted to bring these events to Ireland and to see an injection in to each local economy as a result of the races. The locations are great and we look forward to exciting events in Galway, Cahir and Kilrush”. When asked if he would be competing himself now that he had hung up his Hurley, Griffin was non committal: “Ah sure I’d need arm bands to get through the swim. Although these races can be as rough as Munster Championship”.

International interest in the races has built up in the past week as it became known that Galway had landed the first of the Tri3 Triathlon Series with athlete registrations coming from as far a field as Canada, Spain and Australia. Worth close to €1 million to the economy the Tri3 Triathlon Series will also support a nominated charity in each location.

A sprint distance race comprising of a 750meter swim, 20km cycle and 5km run will start and finish on the grounds of NUI Galway with the run route set for the Galway city streets. The Tri3 Triathlon Series will see first timers to triathlon race alongside seasoned campaigners as well as some famous faces from both radio and television.

Pictured at the launch are Tony Griffin, co founder of Sports AI, Kathleen Tierney, Race Veteran and Dáithí Ó Sé.

For more information on the Tri3 Triathlon Series email info@TRI3.ie or see www.tri3.ie

Sliabh Aughty Profiled In New Book

A new book that profiles the landscape, history, folklore and people of Ireland’s largest but least known mountain ranges will officially be launched by Minister of Defence Tony Killeen T.D. this evening.

‘Sliabh Aughty Ramble’ will be officially launched at The Mountshannon Hotel at 8.30pm. The 180-page, indexed publication features 120 illustrations and includes the first ever coloured index map of the region.

Sliabh Aughty covers over 250 square miles in East Clare and South Galway. The highest peak in the mountain range is Maghera which rises to 400m (1,314ft).

The book’s author Ger Madden, who also is Chairman of the Tuamgraney-based East Clare Heritage Centre, described the publication as a unique account of the region’s rich and varied history.

He said: “The book takes the form of a diary with an insert for each of the 365 days of the year. The inserts include information on the origins of local townland names, traditions, historic figures, folklore and fakelore stories, and poetry and other literary works relating to Sliabh Aughty.

Mr. Madden noted that the tourism potential of the Sliabh Aughty region has never been fully exploited, despite presenting a unique opportunity for enterprise creation and the economic regeneration of South Galway and East Clare.

“It is not promoted or referred to in tourism brochures and even the cartographers have on occasion omitted it from maps. This unique and beautiful landscape is waiting to be discovered by the discerning traveller”, explained the Scariff native.

“Sliabh Aughty boasts a spider’s web of boirins, paths and roads in one of the most scenic parts of Ireland. Poet Pádraig Colum noted in ‘An Old Woman’ that the roads of Sliabh Aughty, are neither graced ‘by house or bush’ only by ‘the crying wind and the lonesome hush.’ The full-colour, attached map with index will make the journey all the more pleasurable. Sliabh Aughty also hosts numerous megalithic burial tombs and is home to the poet Brian Merriman and Biddy Early, the Wise Woman of Clare.”

“I hope my book will highlight everything that the Sliabh Aughty region has to offer to both locals and visitors alike”, added Mr. Madden.

Commenting ahead of the book launch, Minister for Defence and Clare T.D. Tony Killeen underlined the importance of documenting regions of historic and cultural significance. Minister Killeen noted: “This book provides the most in-depth account of the Sliabh Aughty region ever produced. Gerard Madden has spent many years compiling information that will both enlighten and fasciate those who read it.”

“I come from the Burren region which is similar in many respects to Sliabh Aughty in terms of heritage, culture, tradition, landscape and people. I can understand how important this publication is regarding the promotion of the region. I would like to congratulate the author on his work and look forward to seeing an increase in visitor numbers to South Galway and East Clare as a result”, added Minister Killeen.

‘Sliabh Aughty Ramble - Musings on the folklore, history, landscape and literature of the region’ will be on sale at the Scéal Eile Books in Ennis and selected outlets throughout East Clare and South Galway, as well as at the Aughty Gathering in Gort on April 17th next.

Killeen Highlights Risk Of Forest Fires

Tony Killeen TD, Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food with responsibility for Forestry, today warned forest owners about the risk of forest fires.

Advising that the highest risk period occurs between February and June, when ground vegetation is dead and dry following winter, Minister of State Killeen added: “I would like to remind landowners of the greater danger of fire this year due to vegetation conditions following the hard winter. For this reason, landowners need to be particularly vigilant.”

The areas at highest risk from wildfire tend to be located adjacent to or within moorland areas. Dry periods and seasonal high winds in spring help create ideal conditions for wildfire to spread quickly through highly flammable moorland vegetation. Woodland located in the path of such fires can very easily be destroyed and young forest crops are particularly at risk of fire, given the small size of trees and their proximity to flammable ground vegetation.

In general, woodland located within improved pasture and grassland is at very low risk of fire occurrence, due to the type of vegetation involved, but for other types of land there are some simple, cost effective steps that forest owners can take to reduce the risk of fire damage to plantations. These steps include:

1) DO NOT LIGHT FIRES IN OR NEAR WOODLAND. Take care with other potential sources of ignition.

2) CHECK FIRE BREAKS. Inspect Fire Breaks surrounding plantations prior to the fire season and maintain them in an effective, vegetation free condition. Ideally Fire Breaks should be at least 6 metres wide.

3) INSURE YOUR CROP. All forest crops should be insured against losses by fire, which is one of the risks for which cover is available commercially. Forest owners are reminded that, with effect from 1st June 2009, the Reconstitution Scheme, administered by the Department, does not cover any fire or wind damage occurring after that date.

4) PLAN AHEAD. Fire Plans should be developed for all plantations, including a map showing access and assembly points for fire fighting personnel and equipment and potential sources of water. The plan should also include contact details for the emergency services, relevant forest management organisations, neighbouring landowners and forest owners in order to summon help should the need arise. Have fire-fighting tools such as beaters and knapsack sprayers to hand and ready to use.

5) DISCUSS WITH NEIGHBOURS. Cooperation between neighbouring landowners is vital to successful fire prevention. Explain your concerns regarding fire risk to neighbouring landowners. Owners of adjoining and neighbouring plantations should develop joint fire plans and share responsibility for guarding against fire.

6) BE VIGILANT. Forest Owners should be particularly vigilant following prolonged dry spells. A period of 24 hours is sufficient to dry out dead moorland vegetation following rain, where windy conditions exist. Where dry conditions persist, experience suggests that forest owners should be particularly vigilant at weekends, and at evening times, when land burning is most likely to take place. If fire is detected, do not delay, summon help immediately and activate fire plan. Do not rely on others to call the Fire Service, and remember that a rapid response by the emergency services is essential if damage to property is to be minimised.

7) REPORT LOSSES. If a plantation is destroyed or damaged by fire, the incident should be reported to the nearest Garda Station and to the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food. Your local forestry inspector, forest manager, consultant or Teagasc advisor can advise on reinstatement measures.

Minister of State Killeen also reminded all landowners that it is an offence under the Wildlife Act to burn growing vegetation between 1 March and 31 August in any year, on any land not then cultivated, and said that if this simple rule was adhered to many costly and dangerous forest-fires would be avoided. He underlined that, in addition, Single Payment Scheme applicants who burn vegetation within this period could have their payments reduced.

Energy Upgrade Scheme Will Create Thousands Of Jobs

A Pay As You Save (PAYS) scheme designed to energy upgrade virtually every building in Ireland over the next decade was officially recognised at Ireland’s prestigious 2010 Green Awards in Dublin last night.

Green building magazine Construct Ireland editor Jeff Colley (pictured), who developed the financing model, received the Green Leader and Green Communications awards for his successful campaigning work on PAYS.

The scheme, which is scheduled to be rolled out by Energy Minister Eamon Ryan before the end of 2010, will enable cash-strapped homeowners and businesses to pay for energy saving measures through fixed repayments on their energy bills over several years.

“Save as You Pay can become a major driver in Ireland’s economic recovery,” commented Mr. Colley. He said the upgrading of 100,000 homes per year will create thousands of jobs, reduce Ireland’s 6bn euro energy import bill, dramatically cut carbon emissions, and enable all Irish people to have comfortable, healthy homes.

"If ever there is an idea that's of its time, it is pay-as-you-save," added Colley. "We have just been through a freezing winter, carbon tax is coming in, and hundreds of thousands of Irish people are stuck in badly built, draughty homes with no ability to pay for the upgrade work needed to make their home more comfortable, cheaper to run, and more valuable. PAYS is specifically designed to solve that problem, and will mean that people can add the cost of the upgrade to their energy bill over time, with the repayments offset against reduced energy costs."

However Colley, who has no commercial interest in PAYS, cautioned that an ill-informed approach could see the scheme falling well short of its potential. He continued: "It is critical that the utilities give considered, independent advice, and that they do not contradict each other. If one utility says 'you should put in wall insulation' and another says 'don't do that - you should put in solar panels and heating controls,' it will create confusion and lack credibility."

Energy minister Eamon Ryan announced in December that his Department plans to test pay-as-you-save by the summer, before mandatory roll-out by the end of 2010.

Colley and Construct Ireland developed a campaign for PAYS last August and September through www.payscampaign.ie, with consequent national helping Colley to successfully lobby for the inclusion of PAYS in the renewed programme for government. In August an Amárach/Construct Ireland survey found that 80% of Irish homeowners would be interested in paying for energy upgrades through their utility bills.

Construct Ireland was among 20 winners of the 2010 Green Awards, which recognise excellence and outstanding achievement by organisations and individuals in tackling climate change and addressing environmental issues. Diageo won the overall green business award for its significant achievement in reducing water consumption by half; for decreasing waste sent to landfill by two thirds by putting in place an advanced waste management and waste prevention programme; and reducing their overall carbon footprint by nearly three quarters.

Killeen Calls For Improvement In Functioning Of Food Chain

Junior Agriculture Minister Tony Killeen, T.D., has stressed the need for a considerable improvement in the functioning of the food chain so that all players, including producers and consumers, receive fair treatment.

The Clare Deputy said the demands of consumers and the marketplace generally were impacting on the investment decisions of producers in the context of environmental and welfare considerations.

“In regard to market transparency, the main concern is the need to achieve a greater balance along the chain between producers, processors and retailers. The need to involve all the stakeholders reflected the integrated nature of the food supply chain and what might be appropriately called the ‘fork-to-farm’ approach, given the increasing influence that the more discerning and demanding consumers are placing on producers and the manner in which producers are responding to the demands of the marketplace”, he added.

Minister of State Killeen continued: “Over recent years, the Department of Agriculture’s policies have driven a change of focus within the agri-food industry from being producer-focused to being consumer-focused. This was a key element of the AgriVision 2015 Strategy and I have no doubt it will feature prominently in the forthcoming 2020 Strategy”.

Killeen Launches Forestry Review Process

Mr. Tony Killeen TD, Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food with responsibility for forestry, today launched the Forestry Review process.

Referring to the commitment in the renewed Programme for Government to review state forestry policy, including the role of Coillte and its functions and operations, and the effectiveness of current forestry grant schemes Minister of State Killeen said: “I am pleased to invite submissions for this wide ranging review and I encourage people to avail of this opportunity. It is particularly appropriate that the consultation phase commences during National Tree Week.”

The theme of this year’s National Tree Week, which takes place from 7th to 13th March 2010, is ‘Twenty Ten – Plant Again’ to encourage people to make a renewed effort to go out and plant more trees during the week. This year, 15,000 trees sponsored by Coillte, will be distributed to community groups by local authorities all over the country. Events planned to mark National Tree Week include forest walks, tree planting ceremonies, workshops, talks and competitions.

Commenting on the theme of this year’s National Tree Week, Minister of State Killeen stated: “A lot of people now recognise and appreciate the many non-timber benefits of forests but it is also important to acknowledge that the forestry sector, encompassing growing, harvesting and processing of forest products, employs significant numbers, especially in rural Ireland. Afforestation - the planting of new forests - is required for the continuity of this sector and the many other benefits derived from forests so I would also encourage people to make a renewed effort to plant forests.”

In relation to the Forestry Policy review, three groups have been formed to look at specific aspects contained in the commitment in the renewed Programme for Government. The terms of reference of the three groups, background papers on Irish Forestry and on Coillte are available on the Department’s website at www.agriculture.gov.ie/forestservice/forestryreview.

Submissions may be sent by email to forestryreview@agriculture.gov.ie or by post, marked Submission on Forestry Review, to Forest Service, Department of Agriculture Fisheries and Food, Johnstown Castle Estate, Wexford. It should be noted that submissions received will be made publicly available on this website.

Killeen Announces New Support Schemes For Fisheries Sector

Tony Killeen TD, Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food today opened the Irish Skipper - Inshore Fisheries Expo in Galway.

The annual event, which specialises in the inshore fisheries sector, showcases products and services for the fishing sector and the latest technologies.

Speaking today, Minister Killeen said: “The great success of the IRISH SKIPPER EXPO year on year and the large attendance here today, demonstrates the size and vibrancy of the inshore sector and its importance around the coast. The skippers and crew of vessels involved in fishing, the processors and marketing companies and all of the shore based support network such as net makers and chandlers make a vital contribution to the economic activity of our coastal communities. The activity is not just in the large harbours but in every one of the 800 small harbours and landing piers. Expo is especially important in giving fishermen an opportunity to meet and discuss their industry and its future.”

At the exhibition, Minister Killeen launched four schemes to support safety at sea, inshore fisheries management, environmental management of fisheries and LEADER type support for coastal communities dependant on fishing. The schemes which are part funded by the EU will provide €1.82 million of grant aid in support of an investment of €4.5 million in 2010 to assist industry.

Minister Killeen added: “I am pleased to launch new schemes to support the fishing industry, which are being delivered by BIM and are focused in particular on the inshore sector. These supports will particularly focus on aspects of inshore fisheries management and environmental management systems, providing the tools with which industry can not only improve their operations but also increase the value of their produce. BIM will also be launching a LEADER type scheme involving coastal areas dependant on fishing.”

Minister Killeen also launched a new Stock Book for Inshore stocks. The Stock Book will provide information on all inshore stocks around Ireland and has been prepared and published jointly by the Marine Institute and BIM.

Carers Gather For National Respite Weekend And Conference

Caring for Carers Ireland 19th Annual Respite Weekend and Conference will take place on Friday 26th to Sunday 28th February 2010 in the Radisson Blu Hotel Galway.

Over 500 family carers drawn from Ennis-based Caring for Carers Ireland’s network of 101 Carers Groups throughout Ireland will attend the conference, entitled ‘Sustaining Long Term Carers: A Fair Deal for Family Carers?’.

Representatives of Health and Social Care Providers, Policy Makers and Decision Takers are also scheduled to attend. Organisers say the issues for discussion will contribute to the national debate on the future of care provision in the community and strategies necessary to support care in challenging times.

Speakers scheduled to address the Conference include Minister Áine Brady TD, Department of Health and Children; Paschal Moynahan, Director Services for Older People, HSE West; Marian Harkin MEP; Minister Eamon O’Cuív; Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs; Prof. Joyce O’Connor, Patron, Caring for Carers Ireland, Chair of the Digital Hub and Dublin Inner City Partnership, and former President of the National College of Ireland; and Brigid Barron, Innovation and Programme Manager, Caring for Carers Ireland.

Caring For Carers Ireland Chairperson Eilish Smith said: "This coming weekend is about taking time out and letting others care for you for at least two days. The primary objective of the conference is to set out the vision of Caring for Carers Ireland in relation to future policy. The debate will further a deeper understanding of and commitment to the development of an integrated and co-ordinated community care service. It will also acknowledge the Family Carer as a key partner in care provision, in particular long term care in the community”.

“The issues for discussion at this conference will contribute to the national debate on the future of caring in the community and strategy to support a fair and equitable system for Family Carers in challenging times”, Ms. Smith added.

Mary McMahon, CEO of Caring For Carers Ireland added that Long Term Family Care Giving will be given special recognition at the Conference in Galway. She continued: “A special award will be presented to an outstanding family caregiver representing all caregivers, by Minister Aíne Brady. We warmly welcome the Government’s commitment, set out in the renewed programme for Government in October 2009, that it will continue to recognise and support the role of Family Carers who provide a vital service, not only for their own loved ones but for our community as a whole. Family Carers remain the backbone of community care in our changing society”.

Commenting on the work of Caring for Carers Ireland, Ms. McMahon stated: “The role of the organisation in providing a National Training Programme for Carers has been supported through Pobal by the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs. Minister Eamon O’Cuív recognises the achievement of the Organisation who have completed training for 1084 Family Carers to date. There are over 161,000 Carers in Ireland who collectively contribute EUR2.5 billion to the national economy each year. Family Carers are dedicated people at all levels of society who care in the home for older people, people of all ages with disabilities and those with long term illness. Their role may involve a 24-hour-day seven-day-week commitment without respite and often lacking sustainable help or support.”

“Potentially, we may all be required to provide care for a family member at some stage in our lives. Yet, ultimately, we will all need care”, she concluded.

For more on the Caring for Carers Ireland 19th Annual Respite Weekend and Conference see www.caringforcarers.org.

Additional Support For New Entrants To Dairying

Junior Agriculture Minister and Clare T.D., Tony Killeen has confirmed plans by the Department of Agriculture to allocate the second of five annual increases of one per cent in milk quotas agreed under the so-called "health check" of the CAP reform.

One quarter of the increase or approximately 14 million litres will again be set aside to support new entrants to milk production. The balance will be allocated as a 0.75 per cent increase in quota on a permanent, saleable basis for every producer active on 1 April 2010.

According to Minister of State Killeen: “The Department’s consideration of how best to allocate this year's quota increase has been informed by a careful assessment of the impact of last year's allocation. The Department is keen to enhance the position of all milk producers, but has also paid close attention to the views of the farming organisations and ICOS on the implementation of last year's New Entrants Scheme. I am delighted to note that the Scheme has been received very positively, and that there is a desire to build on that success with a repeat of the process.”.

He continued: “The one issue that did emerge was the need to make provision for those who bought quota as new entrants in recent Trading Schemes. The Department has therefore decided to again use one quarter of the increase to support new entrants, and to earmark some of this amount for special allocations to suitably qualified Trading Scheme applicants".

The details of the scheme will be finalised and published shortly, but Minister of State Killeen indicated that he envisages similar arrangements to last year.

Potential new entrants will apply to the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food to participate in the scheme, and will be joined by those who purchased quota through the Milk Quota Trading Scheme as new entrants in respect of any of the last four milk quota years, including 2010/2011. On this occasion a maximum of 50 successful 'brand new' entrants will each receive allocations of 200,000 litres of quota. The balance of approximately 4 million litres will be divided equally between suitably qualified Trading Scheme applicants.

All applicants will be carefully chosen based on their own circumstances and their potential viability as dairy farmers. A comprehensive business plan will have to be submitted, and all applications will be subjected to a rigorous assessment by the same independent assessment group that adjudicated on last year's New Entrants Scheme.

Killeen Launches Ireland's Proposals On The Reform Of The Common Fisheries Policy

Tony Killeen T.D., Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food today launched Ireland's proposals on the reform of the Common Fisheries Policy.

Following the launch of the EU Commission's Green Paper on the Reform of the Common Fisheries Policy, Minister Killeen appointed Dr Noel Cawley to co-ordinate consultation with stakeholders. Dr Cawley organised an extensive consultation process which involved meetings around the coast, an open call for submissions and a Seminar organised by the Federation of Irish Fishermen.

Minister Killeen paid tribute to the Federation of Irish Fishermen and other stakeholders for “their invaluable contribution to the preparation of Ireland's submission on the CFP reform which is strongly informed by the formal submissions received”. He continued: “I found the meetings around the country organised by the FIF critically important in getting a full understanding of fishermen's experience and ideas for change. I also found the seminar organised by the FIF last October was very useful in scoping the issues and bringing forward ideas for change. I also sought and received submissions from a range of other stakeholders both from the fishing industry and elsewhere. I also met separately other stakeholder bodies including the Irish Fishermen's Organisation, the Irish Fish Processors and Exporters Association, IFA Aquaculture and the Environmental Pillar of Social Partnership."

Ireland's submission on the CFP reform sets down a number of informed recommendations that the Minister believes must be incorporated into the new Common Fisheries Policy.

The changes include:
- New focus on addressing discarding of fish at sea with a complete ban being introduced for stocks in a depleted state;
- The retention of a management system based on national quotas supported by increased flexibility and a rejection of the mandatory privatisation of fish quotas or the introduction of international trading of fish quotas;
- Access to coastal waters to be re-examined with a view to an extension of the coastal limit to 20 miles with new management arrangements in place to strengthen coastal communities dependant on inshore coastal fisheries;
- New measures to strengthen the market for EU producers and increase quay side prices;
- Reinvigoration of European aquaculture with continued structural support and a roadmap that establishes a route for growth in harmony with Community environmental law.
- New regional structure to decision making at EU level with increasing industry responsibility and the development of a culture of compliance.

Minister Killeen continued: "I am satisfied that the changes Ireland is seeking are essential to deliver a seafood industry that is strong, sustainable and profitable and supports fishing and related economic activities in the coastal communities. I believe that these communities must be allowed maintain jobs in the catching, supply and processing sectors in order to prosper. It is not just the activities of the smaller, inshore fleets that support this vital activity but, in Ireland's case, the operation of family owned, locally operated larger boats are the primary mainstay of activity in our fishing ports in many cases."

Minister Killeen has formally sent Ireland's submission to Commissioner Maria Damanaki who has taken over the new Fisheries and Maritime Affairs Directorate. He stated: "I have requested a meeting with Commissioner Damanaki to outline the key elements of Ireland's CFP Review submission and explain the changes that we consider are essential. I have also invited Commissioner Damanaki to visit Ireland to see at first hand the workings of the fishing industry here and perhaps take the opportunity of meeting industry in their own environment."

The report in its entirety and all formal submissions received are available on www.fishingnet.ie.

Irish Primary Schools Can Save Hundreds Of Euro By Installing Waterless Technology

One of the Mid West Region’s best known primary schools has moved to reduce its annual water and sewer charges by installing waterless urinal systems.

The Model School in Limerick City invested in the systems, which were installed by brwaterless solution, to offset the scale of metered water charges that were introduced for all schools and educational centres in January. The Sligo-based company says that thousands of schools around the country are unwittingly flushing money down the toilet by using conventional toilets instead of newer waterless urinals.

The savings for the Model School has led brwaterless solution to develop the country’s first Pay As You Save (PAYS) programme for national schools interested in using the Waterless No-Flush systems.

According to Ortwin Reintjes of brwaterless solution: “The country’s National Primary Schools have been severely affected by the introduction of metered charges as many are not equipped with urinals for male pupils, necessitating toilet flushes for urination. The absence of installed urinals means that it is very difficult to reduce the level of water usage and the corresponding water and sewer charges”.

Mr. Reintjes said that the Model School will benefit from significant savings by its use of the system.

He explained: “The average conventional urinal uses between 50,000 and 150,000 litres of potable water per year. With only two Waterless No-Flush units installed, the Model School, based on its male pupil population of 250, will benefit from savings on water and wastewater charges of up to 350 euro per year, based on Limerick City Council water charges of EUR2.30 per 1000 litres. Outside of the obvious water conservation and commercial benefits for the school, the urinals also lead to increased hygiene as well as a significant reduction of CO2 emissions and maintenances costs.”

The urinals resemble conventional wall-hung urinal fixtures, but do not require a water supply or flush valve for their proper functioning. Gravity helps the flow into the urinal trap and into the drain line. The urinals, which can even be made of approximately 30 per cent of soybean resin, not only save water but help save natural resources and promote sustainability as well. Due to the dryness of the fixture, bacteria growth is inhibited and odours are eliminated through the minimal use of BlueSeal.

Commenting on the background to the PAYS scheme, Mr. Reintjes said: “On request, we evaluate how many litres of water per year and how much maintenance can be saved though the use of Waterless No-Flush system. The cost of the urinals is paid from part of the savings made on the reduced water charges. Fixtures are usually paid off within two years after which the schools keep on saving on water and sewer charges, along with reduced maintenance costs.”

Commenting on the environmental benefits of the scheme, Mr. Reintjes noted: “The world is becoming increasingly aware of the need to conserve water and to diminish waste water. Dwindling natural resources, climate changes, the need to reduce and/or conserve budget money plus behavioral changes have led to an increased awareness and desire to install water conserving fixtures. We intend rolling out the PAYS program to other schools throughout the country and look forward to the opportunity to speak with Boards of Management interested in finding out more about the systems and to save money.”

For more on brwaterless solution’s PAYS (Pay As You Save) program see www.brwaterless.ie, telephone 071-9150622 or email ortwin@brwaterless.ie.

Single Payment Scheme Online Application Facility Opens For Business

The Department of Agriculture’s online application facility for the 2010 Single Payment Scheme – SPS iNet – was opened for business this week, which is six weeks earlier than the opening date under the 2009 Scheme.

Junior Agriculture Minister and Clare T.D., Tony Killeen said the facility provides for applications to be lodged by individual farmers or their nominated approved Agents.

He continued: “I am pleased to see that the momentum is being maintained as regards iNET, particularly given the attractiveness of the system to Single Payment applicants. In the course of only three years, the level of on-line applications has risen dramatically, from 7,500 in 2007 to 35,000 in 2009. This is further clear evidence of the ongoing very strong commitment of the Department to maximising new technology, to the clear benefit of farmers”..

Minister of State Killeen noted that those who submit their applications on-line are much more likely to have their applications cleared for payment more quickly, because of this aspect of the on-line system.

“Analysis of the issues which delay processing of applications shows that a very high percentage are delayed because of basic errors or omissions on the part of the applicant. However, it has been possible to construct the on-line facility with a series of compulsory fields and built-in validations, which dramatically reduces the level of these types of error, simply by refusing to allow the applicant to make the error in the first instance. Unfortunately, such an option is not available with the traditional paper application”, he added.

Minister of State Killeen confirmed that in addition to the almost 25,000 farmers who are registered with the Department to use the on-line facility, a similar number have also availed of the option to have an approved designated Agent lodge their application via the on-line system on their behalf.

The closing date for receipt of applications under the 2010 Schemes is 17 May 2010, regardless of whether applications are submitted on-line or the traditional paper application. New entrants are advised to contact any of the Department’s Offices, or to consult the Department’s website.

Meanwhile, Minister of State Killeen has welecomed the granting of on-line access to Nitrogen and Phosphorus statements for approved designated Agents. He explained: “Farmers need to be aware of their requirements under the Nitrates Regulations and this additional facility is a convenient way for approved agents to check the individual output of their clients and advise, if necessary, on any appropriate action. The Department has already sent out N&P statements to farmers farming at or above 150 kg of nitrogen per hectare per year. This information will assist farmers in their decision regarding whether they need a derogation in 2010. It is important that farmers make this decision as soon as possible as the closing date for receipt of derogation applications is Wednesday, 31st March 2010. No applications for derogations will be accepted after this date.”

The Minister of State also referred to a number of new Schemes which are being introduced in 2010 and in respect of which further announcements would be made in due course, namely:
• The Grassland Sheep Scheme;
• The Dairy Efficiency Scheme;
• The Burren Life (Farming for Conservation in the Burren) Scheme

Anyone considering availing of the on-line facility are urged to make enquiries via the website, www.agfood.ie or, alternatively, the dedicated Helpdesk at Lo-call 1890 252 118.

Applications Deadline Reminder For University Language Programme

Junior Minister Tony Killeen has reminded Clare students and teachers that the deadline for applications for the Ireland Canada University Foundation’s Irish language awards is Friday March 5th next.

According to the Clare T.D.: “This excellent programme offers students and academics a wonderful opportunity to gain valuable teaching practice, to experience living in Canada and to use their Irish in a new and exciting environment. It will help to make the academic community in Canada more aware of the Irish language and its rich heritage as one of the oldest vernacular languages in Europe. It will place the language on a par with other European languages being taught abroad.”

Funded by the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, the Foundation is providing Irish-language teaching assistantships and visiting lectureships at Canadian universities that offer courses in Irish. The third-level institutions involved are Concordia University in Montreal in Quebec and St. Mary’s University in Halifax, Nova Scotia. In addition, the Ireland Canada University Foundation is calling for applications for a Visiting Irish Language Professorship at the Department of Celtic Studies at the University of Toronto.

“Clare students and teachers have just over a fortnight to submit their application and make the most of this opportunity, so I strongly urge them to hurry and apply for these exchange scholarships for universities across Canada”, added Minister of State Killeen.

The Programme is funded from Ciste na Gaeilge (The Irish Language Fund), which is used to support Irish language organisations and Irish language projects. The goal of the fund is to promote the use of the Irish language.

Further information about the awards is available from www.icuf.ie or email info@icuf.ie.

2020 Strategy Welcomed By Killeen

The development of a long-term strategy for the agri-food, forestry and fisheries sectors will place the industries at the forefront of the country’s export-led economic recovery.

That is according to Junior Agriculture and Fisheries Minister Tony Killeen, T.D., who was speaking following the appointment of a Committee to lead the process and has also established a web-based public consultation process. The 2020 Strategy Committee, chaired by Dr Sean Brady, is broadly based and possesses a wide range of skills and experience. It is drawn from senior experts and participants in all aspects of the sector.

According to Minister of State Killeen: “The Committee has been tasked with drafting a short, sharp document which sets out the key strategies required for the future development of the sector. I believe that the very high calibre of the committee members will ensure that the output from this exercise will be both bold and practical and will set a clear path forward for the sector. The Committee has been asked to report by June 1st next”.

The Clare Fianna Fail T.D. noted that the agri-food, forestry and fisheries sectors were hugely important to the Irish economy and society as a source of jobs, exports and regional development. He expressed his belief that the sector could contribute significantly to Ireland’s economic recovery and provide long-term growth into the future.

Minister of State Killeen said that in order to facilitate and target consideration of key issues, a series of discussion and background papers had been prepared.

He continued: “These papers, which may be viewed on the Department website www.agriculture.gov.ie, outline the current situation and challenges facing the sector but equally importantly, pose a series of questions, the answers to which will form the core of our future strategy. Relevant stakeholders are invited to submit their views on how best to deal with some of the critical issues arising from these discussion papers”.

Details on how to make submissions are given HERE.

15 Jobs Created In County Galway By Car Auction Facility

15 new jobs are to be created in County Galway with the opening of a new indoor car auction facility.

M6 Car Auctions is opening its doors in March in the Deerpark Industrial Estate Oranmore. Over 100 vehicles will be auctioned weekly including private, repossessed, ex fleet, hire, and trade vehicles, and the new venture is expected to attract buyers and sellers from all over the country.

M6 Car Auctions will be employing 15 staff in the area of sales, marketing, administration, operations and security.

Killeen Welcomes Introduction Of New Bioenergy Scheme

Junior Agriculture Minister Tony Killeen, T.D. has welcomed the introduction of a new Bioenergy Scheme to grant aid the planting of willow and miscanthus crops over the period 2010 to 2012.

The Scheme was initially launched on a pilot basis in 2007 and supported the planting of 2,500 hectares by the end of 2009. The new Scheme is part of the Department's revised Rural Development Programme, which is due to be formally approved by the EU Commission in the near future.

The Clare Deputy said the new Scheme would consolidate progress made during the three years of the pilot phase in developing a biomass crops sector in Ireland.

He continued: “I welcome the announcement by my colleague Brendan Smith TD, Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, that EUR1 million is being made available to support the planting of a further 1,000 hectares in 2010. The Scheme is now open for applications and interested farmers can apply for establishment grants of up to EUR1,300 per hectare to cover 50 per cent of the costs of establishing these crops".

“The legal basis for the Bioenergy Scheme is Council Regulation (EC) No 1698/2005, as amended on support for rural development by the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development. Eligible costs include ground preparation operations, vegetation management, planting and the purchase of planting stock”, concluded Minister of State Killeen.

The closing date for submission of applications for pre-planting approval is Wednesday 31st March 2010. Details of the Bioenergy Scheme and application forms can be obtained from Biofuels Policy Unit, Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, Kea-Lew Business Park, Mountrath Road, Portlaoise, Co. Laois. Telephone 057-8692231/8692240 or at www.agriculture.gov.ie.

Ireland Secures Annual International Cycling Event

Ireland is set to become home to an annual international cycling event organised by the world’s largest sports, entertainment and media company.

IMG today, in partnership with Sky, Fáilte Ireland, Shannon Development, the Shannon Region Conference and Sports Bureau, Clare County Council, announced details of the country’s first closed road cycle event. The Sky Ride Etape Hibernia will take place over an 80-mile (approx) course in scenic County Clare on Sunday, August 22nd 2010.

The event organisers expect to attract 2000 entrants from throughout Ireland and abroad this year, bringing significant economic benefit into the local economy, with numbers increasing considerably over the next five years. The mass participation event, which is being marketed internationally and nationally, is open to all standards of cyclists, aged 18-80. The cycle will start and finish in Ennis and travel through County Clare, taking in part of West Clare’s spectacular coastline.

Sky, the UK and Ireland’s leading entertainment company behind the Sky Ride series of events, is the title sponsor of The Sky Ride Etape Hibernia. The sponsorship supports Sky’s aim to encourage one million more people of all ages and abilities to get cycling by 2013. Sky Ride consists of a range of initiatives to get people back on their bikes, with activities like mass city cycling events on traffic-free streets through to local group rides.

As well as Sky Ride Etape Hibernia, IMG have extensive experience organising mass participation events including the internationally renowned events the Macmillan Cancer Support Etape Caledonia, Tour de Suisse, Melbourne Marathon, The London Triathlon, Triathlon de Alpe d’Huez and UK Challenge

Speaking at today’s event launch in Spanish Point, County Clare, Jo Dytch of IMG said: “The popularity and growth in road cycling is very exciting. Along with our partners we are looking to lead the way in providing a prestige event for cycling in Ireland and to establish a major fixture on the Irish sporting calendar delivering a significant boost to the local economy. This event will bring a welcome boost to the tourism in Clare annually and will see the most scenic parts of the County and its coastline exposed to the world’s cycling enthusiasts and media.”

Ms. Dytch continued: “Sky Ride Etape Hibernia is Ireland's first closed road cycle event and is open to the general public. It affords cyclists with the unique opportunity to cycle safely on closed roads, whilst rising to the physical challenge at the same time. We expect to draw enthusiasts, the health conscious, challenge-seekers, charity fund-raisers and lapsed cyclists. For the inaugural Etape Hibernia, we hope to attract as many as 2000 entrants and plan to grow this number considerably by 2014. IMG are grateful for the support of the title sponsor Sky, and regional sponsors Fáilte Ireland, Shannon Development, Clare County Council, and the Shannon Region Conference and Sports Bureau, without whom staging this event in Ireland would not be possible and we look forward to making it a legacy event for the region”.

Mark Deering, Director, Sky Ireland said, “We are proud to be the main sponsor for the Sky Ride Etape Hibernia. Our Sky Ride initiatives last year encouraged thousands of people to get on their bikes. We hope, through events and sponsorships such as this, that 2010 will provide more opportunities and inspiration for people to get cycling.”

Speaking about today’s announcement Keith McCormack, Fáilte Ireland’s Head of Business and Sports Tourism, emphasised: “As a national tourism authority, we are glad to be ‘in the saddle’ for the Sky Ride Etape Hibernia. This event is a perfect fit for Fáilte Ireland’s sports strategy and our commitment to promoting all of Ireland’s regions as tourism destinations. This event allows us to harness the growing popularity of cycling to the natural charms and allure of County Clare and the Mid West. As well as bringing visitors and revenue to the area, the event will provide an excellent opportunity to showcase the Shannon Region as both a cycling destination, in particular, and a tourism ‘must see’ in general.”

Welcoming the event John King, Assistant Chief Executive of Shannon Development said, “Shannon Development, along with its partners, is delighted to have helped secure this very prestigious event for the Shannon Region for the next five years. Winning this event helps us build on our campaign to promote the Region’s growing reputation as a leading sports and events destination. Etape Hibernia is one of a number of international events we are working on this year to bring additional visitors to the Shannon Region which have the potential to generate 10 million euro in new revenue for the Region. This new cycling event complements our strategy to secure more mass participation events, in particular sports events, which can be firmly rooted in the Shannon Region for many years to come.”

Mr. King noted that the Lonely Planet ‘Best in Travel 2010’ guide’s inclusion of Clare in its top 10 list of ‘Super Cycling Routes in the World’ was a great endorsement of the County’s cycling product. “This endorsement is a testament to the amount of work that has gone into the development of the tourism cycling product in Clare in recent times. We look forward to working with IMG and our partners to ensure the success of this event in terms of delivering additional visitors and revenue”, concluded Mr. King.

Karen Brosnahan of the Shannon Region Conference and Sports Bureau noted: “Sports Tourism generates approximately 60 million euro for the Shannon Region annually. We, along with Shannon Development and Failte Ireland, have recently launched a Sports Ambassador Programme to capitalise on this lucrative market even further by getting local people involved in sport to help bid for events like Etape Hibernia that can become legacy events for the entire Shannon Region."

Mayor of Clare Councillor Tony Mulcahy said the economic and tourist benefits associated with the event for County Clare and the wider region were significant. “I have no doubt that the people of Clare will support the event by joining Clare County Council in welcoming thousands of cyclists to the County, which will allow us to showcase all we have to offer. I especially welcome IMG’s commitment to working with local people to maximise the economic return of the event for all local people”, stated Mayor Mulcahy.

The Sky Ride Etape Hibernia was launched today at an event in The Armada Hotel, Spanish Point, Co Clare, which was attended by media outlets from throughout Ireland the United Kingdom. A number of attending journalists also took part in an arranged cycle of a 10-mile stretch of the proposed event route.

Details of The Sky Ride Etape Hibernia are available from www.etapehibernia.com or info@etapehibernia.com.

Above images of ETAPE Caledonia by Ian MacNicoll.