WE DELIVER!- for 31 years SOUTH EDITION - ARKLOW WIND PARK - Wicklow Times
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Times
WICKLOW WE DELIVER!- for 31 years SOUTH EDITION
homes & businesses
Delivered to 44,500
LOCAL
ARKLOW WIND PARK THE DEER HUNTER GLENMALURE DUMPING
page 3 page 6 page 10
SOUTH EDITION DELIVERED TO HOMES & BUSINESSES IN: RATHNEW, WICKLOW, GLENEALY, BRITTAS BAY, AVOCA, WOODENBRIDGE, ARKLOW, SHILLELAGH, TINAHELY, REDCROSS, BALLINACLASH, AUGHRIM, RATHDRUM, DONARD, DUNLAVIN, CARNEW, COOLATTIN, BALTINGLASS, BLESSINGTON.
Tuesday 23rd June 2020 5 Eglinton Road, Bray, Co. Wicklow Tel: 01 - 2869111 www.wicklowtimes.net E-mail: wicklowed@localtimes.ie
It's decision week for the proposed new government composed
of Fine Gael, Fianna Fáil and the Green Party and by the end
of the week we will know whether we have a new government
or are off to the hustings again in July for another General
Election.
If a government gets Harris is dropped from Wicklow Times spoke
the go-ahead from the Cabinet as they feel to a number of members
members of the various he did a very credible of each party in County
parties the question will job during the Covid Wicklow and found
not be whether Wicklow crisis, and are tipping there was surprisingly
gets a Minister, rather it him for the position of high support for a
will be how many Minister for Education. rejection of the
ministers it will get. Green Party TD Programme for
Stephen Donnelly TD, Steven Mathews is Government.
a recent convert to favoured for a Junior Former Fianna Fail TD
Fianna Fáil, has declared Ministry as the Greens and now Senator, Pat
in a Sunday newspaper will have 3 senior Casey said "The Covid
that he expects to be the ministries and 4 junior 19 crisis has changed the
next Minister for Health ministry positions to fill. context of Government
with the current Minister This gives Mathews a formation completely.
for Health, Simon Harris better than 50/50 chance The election which
as his junior minister of getting a position. resulted in no TD being
with responsibility for However, it all elected from East, South
Covid. depends on how the or West Wicklow has
Wicklow Fine Gael members of Fianna Fáil disenfranchised much of
members will be greatly and the Green Party rural Wicklow and I
aggrieved if Simon vote. have concerns for rural
Cllr Pat Kennedy is the new Cathaoirleach of Wicklow County Council and says he wants to ‘bring the
council back to the people’. See more, page 8
issues in the new was included to improve
Government programme. the commuting night-
I am reviewing the mare for so many in
document closely and County Wicklow. Rail
will be consulting wide- projects in Cork,
ly with the membership Galway, Limerick and
before I decide to Waterford are to be pri-
support this progr- oritised in the pro-
amme.We need to gramme for government;
rebuild an economy for however, the Rosslare to
all the people of Dublin rail line is not
Wicklow not just the mentioned. There is no
large urban settlements mention of the N81
and that will be my posi- Tallaght to Hollywood
tion going forward.” upgrade or the N11
Sinn Féin TD John scheme.
Brady described the "It's clear Wicklow has
Programme for been left behind again,
Government as "a very with well overdue pro-
disappointing document jects now axed it seems.
that does not represent A government led by
the change people voted Fine Gael and Fianna
for back in February." Fáil together does not
Deputy Brady also represent the change that
expressed his shock and people voted for in
disappointment on the February. This document
total absence of propos- that has been published
als for county Wicklow is incredibly disappoint-
in the Programme for ing. It lacks ambition
Government. and reads as more of 'the
"I was shocked to read same old same old', with
it and realise nothing a green tint.”
Times WICKLOW
LOCAL
2 NEWS Tuesday 23rd June 2020
COVID-19 Community
outreach champion will
continue to support
local communities
The Wheel and Irish Rural Link announced that the COVID-19 Champion for County
Wicklow will continue in his role as the lockdown restrictions are lifted and the wider social
and economic impact of the pandemic become clearer.
Many people and fami- be a continued need for the past tfew months. As nerable people who are
lies have been impacted by supports to help people the COVID-19 lockdown afraid of going back into
this pandemic, with the loss back into society. As part restrictions ease the shops and are anxious that
of loved ones, loss of jobs of the COVID-19 Champions will continue to the services they had over
and families and friends Community Outreach, a support community and last few months will sud-
Terry Kavanagh, Pamela Harper, Tilly Kavanagh, Tina Kavanagh, Tanya Coleman, and Evie unable to see one another national programme coor- voluntary organisations denly stop.
Coleman are pictured at the official opening of the new playground in Roundwood. See more on for almost three months. dinated by The Wheel and along people who continue You can contact your
page 17 The mental health and Irish Rural Link with sup- to need help and support. local Community
wellbeing of those people port from the Department We are two weeks into Champion, Brian Carty on
who have had to cocoon of Rural and Community Phase 2 of the easing of 086 3898461 or at
and the feelings of loneli- Affairs, the Community restrictions and the bcarty@wicklowpartner-
Annual Mass at Redford Community Call ness will continue to be felt Champions have been very Champions are continuing ship.ie
for some time. There will active in every county over to receive calls from vul-
Cemetary Brockagh Centre are part of the Community Call,
anyone needing assistance should call community
Regrettably due to COVID 19 the annual Mass in
Redford Cemetery will not take place this year, The
11:30 Mass on Sunday 28th June in the parish will
assistance 1800-868-399 or e-mail the centre brock-
aghresourcecentre@gmail.com. For further infor-
mation, or to share advice, email brockaghresource-
Citizen’s information Centres
be designated to deceased loved ones. This Mass centre@gmail.com, consult the Brockagh Resource Citizens Information Centres (CICs) are here to help during the COVID-19 (coronavirus)
will be streamed live on www.greystonesparish.ie Centre Facebook page or visit www.brockaghre- pandemic. They are here to provide you with information and advice on a range of areas
sourcecentre.ie of concern.
Glenroe Farm to re-open this
week Glendalough Heritage Forum Employment and income supports: new COVID-19 Pandemic Unemployment Payment, Short Time
Work Support, employment rights during the COVID-19 restrictions, enhanced Illness Benefit or
Supplementary Welfare Allowance
Glenroe Farm will re-open to the public on Friday Glendalough Heritage Forum has launched their
Mortgage, loans and rent: information on various measures to support domestic households and busi-
26th June. Admissions will be limited initially, visi- new Glendalough Heritage website at glen-
nesses impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic (liaising with MABS)
tors will be asked to adhere to social distancing dalough.wicklowheritage.org. “As members of Our
Housing: information on supports to protect tenants impacted by COVID-19
guidelines, and there will be hand sanitiser stations. Wicklow Heritage, we invite you to explore our
Utilities: information on measures in place to help you remain connected to your electricity and gas sup-
local history collections and discover unique arti-
plies during this period
cles, photographs, documents, oral histories and
Oxfam Bray seek volunteers personal stories. We are working together to record
Education: providing you with updates as these become available
Immigration: employment permits, advice for English language students
and donations and make accessible the county’s rich built, natural
Travel: information about holiday cancellations and other related issues, HSE advice if you are arriving in
and cultural heritage. We invite you to participate
Ireland from another country, information if you are planning to travel to another country
Oxfam in Bray re-opened on June 11th with by contributing your information, stories and pho-
Older people: information on supports for older people during the coronavirus pandemic
reduced opening hours. The store is seeking dona- tographs.”
Other general queries: unrelated to COVID-19
tions and also volunteers. Anyone who can volun- Bray Citizens Information Centre has been set up as the central hub for taking all of your telephone calls
teer some of their time, please email Laragh and Glendalough or emails from around the county. Telephone calls to Arklow and Wicklow Town CICs are automatically
bray@oxfam.org or call (01)2864173.
Sustainable Energy Action diverted to Bray CIC.
Telephone Bray CIC: 0761 07 6780 Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm Email Bray CIC: bray@citinfo.ie
J.M. Synge and Wicklow The Laragh/Glendalough Sustainable Energy Action National phone service: 0761 07 4000 Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm (this may revert to 8pm in the near
are currently conducting a survey on Energy Usage. future)
Local theatre maker Cliona O’Connell, and To participate in the survey at you can go to Log on: www.citizensinformation.ie.
Aughrim-based actress Andrea Kelly would love to www.surveymonkey.com/r/WXQG7Y2. The local Citizens Information Centres are supported by the Citizens Information Board, the national agency
talk to people in the area who have any knowledge voluntary group was set up to increase awareness of responsible for the provision of information, advice and advocacy to citizens on public services.
or stories relating to the playwright J.M Synge, or the causes and impacts of climate change, and to "We are here to help you access all of your rights and entitlements and your queries will be treated in the
the Synge family and their connection to the area. explore ways that the community can respond. The strictest of confidence. We regret we are not in a position to provide a drop in service at this time."
Do you have any stories? group was formed to identify the community's ener-
“If so we would love to hear from you. You can gy needs, and put in place sustainable measures that
email projectsynge@gmail.com, or give us a
call/text on 087 4673858 and we will get back to
will help improve energy efficiency in their homes, PPE for sale
reduce energy costs, and to make their homes more
you. Any information you have, no matter how comfortable to live in.
small, is very welcome. We are currently working PPEI have put a special
COVID pack together at
on the development of a new theatre project sited in
the county, re-imagining Synge’s life, work and
New SDG webinars series discounted cost to mem-
connection to Wicklow. This project is funded under bers of Bray Chamber.
Chambers Ireland is hosting new a SDG webina- “We are suppliers of PPE
the Wicklow Artist Award Scheme 2020.” rs series, which aims to give members practical to Wholesale and retail
advice and guidance on incorporating the SDGs into companies, nursing
their business model. Running Wednesdays 1:15PM homes, dentists, doctors,
BRAY - 2PM. Schedule: 24th June | Goal 13 - Climate
Action; 1st July | Goal 9 - Industry, Innovation and
Infrastructure; 8th July | Goal 11 - Sustainable
along with working on
behalf of the NHS in
Northern Ireland and UK.
Vevay Rd, Bray Cities and Communities; 15th July | Goal 5 -
Gender Equality. Visit chambers.ie/events for more
Feel free to view some of
our PPE products on our
information. on line Retail website. A
discount of 30% applies
• Free Fitting to all Bray And Chamber
• Free Measuring Glen of the Downs Garden Centre Members, by using the
Horkans Garden Centre: Pot Plants, Trees, Shrubs etc: code BCCM. For more
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see www.ppei.ie
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Times
Phone 053 9430001 WICKLOW
LOCAL
Outdoorliving.ie: Stunning outdoor furniture/heaters/ Shay Fitzmaurice, Managing Editor - shay@localtimes.ie
Quote greenhouses and artificial grass Phone 01 2878404
Ian Colgan, News Editor - ian@localtimes.ie
Open 9.30am-6p.m.
*12 Month Guarantee on ALL Blinds* Geoghegans Conservatory Conversions: General enquiries - info@localtimes.ie
Tel: 286 5057 Fax: 201 4335 www.acmeblinds.com
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email: bray@acmeblinds.com Open Mon to Sat 9am-6pm • Sun 12am to 6pm First Floor, The Boulevard, Quinsborough Road, Bray. A98 R6D7. Tel: 01-2869111
Times WICKLOW
LOCAL
Tuesday 23rd June 2020 NEWS 3
Arklow selected
as operations base
for Wind Park
Arklow Harbour has been selected by SSE Renewables as the preferred location for the
Operations and Maintenance Base for its planned 520MW Arklow Bank Wind Park Phase 2
offshore wind farm. The decision was announced on June 8th by the leading renewable energy
firm at a virtual meeting with members of Wicklow County Council.
The new base location Wicklow Port and ments with Wicklow green energy, offsetting
at Arklow Harbour's 'Old Arklow Harbour over the County Council for around 600,000 tonnes
Shipyard' at the South past year to identify the adjoining industrial land of carbon emissions or a
Dock will operate as a optimum site for the off- which also forms part of 1% reduction in Ireland's
hub for the new offshore shore wind farm's future 'The Old Shipyard' site, annual carbon emissions.
wind farm and will be service base. This assess- as well as an area of Cllr Irene Winters
home to 80 full-time ment included extensive quayside at the South said "SSE Renewables'
employees who will be consultation by SSE Dock for vessel berthing announcement is a great
recruited to work on its Renewables with exist- and pontoons. vote of confidence for
operation and mainte- ing marine users at each SSE Renewables is County Wicklow. This
nance. location, including com- targeting a delivery date project will place Ireland Sofia O’Dea and Katelyn Tyndall at the official opening of the new playground in Roundwood.
The development will mercial, fisheries and of 2025 to meet Ireland's well on its way towards See more on page 17
support companies recreational interests. interim target of 1GW of achieving its objective
across the supply chain, SSE Renewables has offshore wind energy in of generating 70% of its
including those involved entered into land option the same year, as com- energy from renewable Curran, chief executive of mence an extensive development decision is validation of Arklow's
in vessel services and agreements at Arklow's mitted to in the Irish sources by 2030. It pro- Wicklow County Council, said: programme to further progress potential as a hub for our future
site survey, hospitality, South Dock to progress Government's Climate vides great opportunities "The Blue Economy is an impor- delivery of the new Operations renewable energy development in
fuel, consultancy, logis- the development. The Action Plan. When com- to build on County tant pillar in the county's econom- and Maintenance base. the country. It's also confirmation
tics and stevedoring. company has also plete, the wind farm is Wicklow's maritime tra- ic development strategy. The Sinn Féin TD John Brady said of Wicklow's potential as a region-
The announcement entered into option expected to power ditions by providing development of the Arklow Bank "It is critically important that as al leader of marine planning and
follows a detailed assess- agreements to 'step into' around half a million skilled employment Wind Park and the decision to site many of the jobs that will be cre- development and I hope it doesn't
ment of facilities at both two existing lease agree- homes each year with opportunities, skills the operations and maintenance ated will be for local people. I end at SSE's recent decision.
transfer, training and base here will act as a catalyst for have contacted the Dept of "In my submission to the recent
development, and spin the regeneration and renewal of Employment Affairs and Social draft Marine Planning Framework
off investment for both Arklow Harbour and indeed the Protection and the Dept of I proposed that Wicklow would be
Wicklow and Arklow. entire town. This will dovetail Business, Enterprise and best suited to coordinate the Irish
This places us well on with the development of the Innovation and the Dept of Coast region for marine planning
our way towards achiev- wastewater treatment plant, the Education and Skills and asked and activities. Although currently
ing our goal of develop- flood defence scheme other excit- them to look at developing educa- under-utilised, the two main ports
ing County Wicklow as a ing developments announced by tion and upskilling courses which in the county, Wicklow Town and
Centre of Excellence for locally based companies and will would help people access these Arklow, would make an ideal base
the Offshore Renewable be transformative for the entire jobs once they come about.” for much of the regional planning,
Energy Sector." area." Social Democrats TD Jennifer implementation and enforcement
Barry Kilcline, SSE Renewables will com- Whitmore said "Ultimately, the as set out in this Framework.”
Director of Development
at SSE Renewables,
said: "We are delighted
to confirm Arklow
Harbour as the new
home for our Operations
and Maintenance Base
for Arklow Bank Wind
Park. The new base will
play a vital role in the
day-to-day running of
the planned offshore
wind farm. While
Arklow's South Dock
has been selected as the
preferred base location,
both Wicklow Port and
Arklow Harbour offer
very attractive facilities
for any offshore wind
Citizens Information Centres in developer. We are very
confident that both
Co. Wicklow: response to COVID-19 Wicklow and Arklow
will see significant com-
Your local Citizens Information Centre provides you with a free, confidential mercial uplift and urban
and independent information, advice and advocacy service on your civil and regeneration as a result
social rights and entitlements in areas such as Social Welfare, Employment, of the economic boost
Health Services and many more. from our planned invest-
ment in the construction
Telephone us on the number below if you wish discuss your query with an and operation of Arklow
Information Officer: Bank Wind Park in the
Bray CIC Local Office: 0761 07 6780 Monday to Friday 9.00am to 5.00pm. years ahead."
Alternatively email us at: bray@citinfo.ie - anytime At last week's meeting
Please note that our CICs in Arklow and Wicklow Town have temporarily of Wicklow County
closed during the COVID-19 pandemic and all of their calls are being diverted Council, Wicklow Town
councillor Gail Dunne
to the Bray office. Regrettably, we are unable to provide a drop in service at
(FF) expressed disap-
this time in any of our offices around the county. pointment that Arklow
You can also access our service via the other contact details below: was selected over
National Citizens Information Phone Service 0761 07 4000 9.00am Wicklow. He com-
to 5.00pm Monday to Friday (may revert to 9.00am to 8.00pm in the plained that Wicklow is
near future). being passed over in
Our national call back service: visit citizensinformation.ie/callback to book terms of jobs and
expressed hope that the
a phone call from an information officer. You can also log on to our website: next County
www.citizensinformation.ie Development Plan
Stay safe. would address this.
Welcoming the
announcement, Frank
Times WICKLOW
LOCAL
4 NEWS Tuesday 23rd June 2020
'Cutbacks will be
dependent on Govt
compensation'
Covid-19 will have a "significant impact" on the Council's next budget, Director of Finance Brian Gleeson told
Councillors last week. Mr Gleeson said that Government compensation will be key to knowing the extent of the
cutbacks that will be necessary.
He said that the Council is currently look- would be open in July. The planning depart- Wicklow).
ing to identify potential areas where savings ment public counter has already reopened to The Bray to Greystones Cliff Walk as well
can be made, but that no hard decisions members of the public by appointment only. as the Beach Cliff Walk to Wicklow Head
would be taken until the amount of Further details are on the Council's website, remain closed, including the Glen Turn Car
Government compensation is known. www.wicklow.ie. Park serving this location, due to physical
The Council is €4 million worse off in While some car parks are open (Upper car distancing concerns. Mr Curran said that the
terms of commercial rates than it was at this park at Glendalough; South Beach car park, Council would look at re-opening the cliff
time last year. There have been further Mill Road, Greystones; Park and Ride, walks in July.
Pictured is Caoimhe Appleby from Arklow who completed 13,000 incurred losses totalling nearly €1 million Woodlands Avenue, Greystones; Trafalgar The official bathing season began on 1st
keepie uppies on her 13th birthday on 18th June in aid of Pieta House. (reductions in planning receipts, litter fines, Road, car park, Greystones; La Touche Road of June as did lifeguard patrols. Beaches
Caoimhe, who plays for Arklow Town FC, raised over €600 for the reduced activity at harbours, and the tempo- car park, Greystones; Harbour/Marina public patrolled this year are Bray (North & South
rary closure of Cleremont Campus in car park, Greystones; Bray Head car park; Prom), Greystones (South Beach); Wicklow
charity.
Rathnew). Mr Gleeson said that a discussion Brittas Bay car parks north and south; Sugar Harbour, Brittas Bay (North & South) and
would have to take place with Carlow IT to loaf car park; Seaview Avenue car park, Arklow South Beach. Patrols will be in oper-
see what their plans are for the use of the Arklow; South Beach car park Arklow; The ation from 11am to 7pm each day through to
136 FOI requests made to campus going forward.
As well as reduced income, the Council's
expenditure has also greatly increaed
Cove car park Arklow; Knockieran and
Baltyboys car parks Blessington; Bray
Harbour), parking restrictions continue to
the end of August.
The County Wicklow Community Call
helpline service continues to operate over the
Wicklow County Council through the necessary purchasing of
Personal Protective Equipment, signage, IT
remain at a number of locations (Bellevue
Hill, at Kindlestown Woods entrance,
weekend during the hours of 8.00 am to
8.00 pm, Telephone: 1800 868 399 or
equipment, and building mofifications such Greystones; Sea Road, Kilcoole, at Kilcoole email covidsupport@wicklowcoco.ie.
Wicklow County Council received 136 Freedom of Information as perspex sreens. train station; Sea Road, Newcastle, at the Trained staff are available to co-ordinate
(FOI) requests last year according to the Commissioner’s Office. Chief Executive of Wicklow County beach railway level crossing access; assistance to elderly and vulnerable per-
The figures were published as part of the Information Council said all of the Council's departments Magheramore Beach Wicklow; Sallygap sons.
Commissioner’s Annual Report for 2019.
According to the report, 36 of the FOI requests were personal and 100 were
non-personal.
The report details a number of case studios, including Wicklow County
Council’s refusal to release a copy of its agreement with the developer of the
Four Blue Flags for Wicklow
Florentine Shopping Centre in Bray. The Council said that the agreement was
commercially sensitive and there was a duty of confidence between it and the
developer.
The Commissioner rejected the Council’s argument and said that in the con-
beaches, while Arklow misses
text of the existence of the FOI Act, there could not have been a mutual expecta-
tion of confidentiality in relation to the public tendering of public land.
The Commissioner has called for a review of the FOI Act by the incoming
Government.
out on Green Coast Award
The Information Commissioner said: “After five years’ experience of operat- An Taisce recently announced the tourism boats will be with us will take some all exercise personal
ing the 2014 FOI Act it is clear to me that there is considerable room for International Blue Flag and Green Coast awarded in 45 countries getting use to. We must responsibility to enjoy our
improvement. I have made a number of recommendations aimed at improving Award recipients for 2020. The awards were this year. also bear in mind the beaches in a safe and sus-
the Act for everyone, including users and public bodies”. announced by Ian Diamond, Coastal Awards In announcing the additional pressure being tainable way. I am
The recommendations include: The introduction of an administrative tribunal manager with An Taisce's Education Unit, the awards from home via put on local authorities to delighted to announce
to speedily consider appeals of the Commissioner’s decisions and reduce the Facebook Live Mr. Ian manage our beaches in the today the recipients of 90
burden on the courts; Closer alignment of the FOI and Access to Information on
national operator of Blue Flag and Green Diamond, Coastal Awards most difficult of circum- Blue Flags and 60 Green
the Environment regimes; Extension of the FOI Act to all bodies in receipt of Coast Award programmes in the Republic of Manager with An Taisce's stances. With unprece- Coast Awards for 2020. I
significant public funding; Revision of the process for resolving disputes as to Ireland. Environmental Education dented numbers forced to would like to congratulate
whether bodies are covered by the Act. unit concluded "Visits to stay at home for the past the Local Authorities,
Wicklow was awarded continues to punch above the beach this summer few months from work community groups and
four Blue Flags; Bray its weight with a record will not be the same, and school we must be marina managers on their
South Promenade, equalling 90 sites award- while we go to the beach cognisant of the chal- success in achieving Blue
Greystones, Brittas Bay ed, up 2 on last year's to relax and unwind we lenges facing those man- Flag or Green Coast
North and Brittas Bay total. still have to be mindful of aging our beaches. In the Award status. I would also
South. The programme aims the need to social distance same manner as we have like to wish everyone a
There was also dissa- to raise environmental and bringing hand sanitiz- all worked together safe and enjoyable sum-
pointment however as awareness and promote er in addition to sunscreen against Covid-19 we must mer".
Arklow did not meet the sound environmental
required water quality to management of beaches,
obtain Green Coast Award marinas and inland
status this year. bathing waters around the
The Blue Flag is one of world. The 80 Irish
the world's most recog- beaches and 10 marinas
nised eco-labels. The that have achieved this
Blue Flag originated in accolade must adhere to
France in 1985 when specific criteria related to
French coastal Local water quality, information
Authorities were awarded provision, environmental
with the Blue Flag for education, safety and site
compliance with sewage management.
treatment and bathing An Taisce - The
water quality criteria. It National Trust for Ireland
was launched as an is responsible for the
International programme operation of the Blue Flag
as part of the "European programme in Ireland on
Year of the Environment behalf of the Foundation
in 1987. In 1988, the first of Environmental
year sites were awarded Education (FEE). 49
outside of France 19 Countries operate the
beaches and 2 marinas Blue Flag programme
received the Blue Flag in globally and more than
Ireland. This year Ireland 4400 sites and eco-
Times WICKLOW
LOCAL
Tuesday 23rd June 2020 5
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Times WICKLOW
LOCAL
6 NEWS Tuesday 23rd June 2020
Deer hunter
poses as Uplands
Council rep
An individual claiming to be associated with the Wicklow Uplands Council and its Wicklow
Deer Management Project has been calling to farmers in the county in recent weeks seeking
permission for the recreational hunting of deer on their land.
Wicklow Uplands Council Mellon at 0873410621 or ducted on a reduced basis and
released a statement recently 012818406". physical meetings have not taken
declaring that the person "has no The Wicklow Deer Management place in line with Government
involvement with the organisation Project was officially launched in guidelines. The first of its type to
or the Deer Management Project", 2018 to address the adverse operate in Ireland, the project is
and that the Uplands Council impacts of the high deer popula- jointly funded by the Department
would not approach landowners in tion in the county. Strategically of Agriculture, Food and the
this manner, especially during the managed by Wicklow Uplands Marine and Department of Culture,
Pictured are Tony Clarke, Darren Stephenson and Rudy Montejo, part of the Open Door team Covid-19 restrictions. It's under- Council and the Wicklow Deer Heritage and the Gaeltacht.
delivering vital PPE and test kits to nursing homes, residential units and hospitals in Dublin and stood that the alarm was raised Management Partnership, the pro- Speaking to Wicklow Times, Pat
Wicklow. when the individual, calling door ject has successfully established Mellon said "there's two or three
to door, unwittingly called upon a five deer management units deer in the county for every one
landowner connected with the (DMUs) in different locations cow, and they're eating themselves
Bray Primary Care Centre nears completion Uplands Council. It's understood
that the individual has been identi-
where issues have been identified.
There are two in West Wicklow,
out of their natural habitat and
spreading. That's why in recent
fied. He resides outside the county two in South Wicklow and one in years we're seeing more deer
Minister Simon Harris updated his Wicklow constituents on the progress in opening the but has been operating in areas on North Wicklow. Each of the units around the N11/M11 and closer to
new Primary Care Centre in Bray despite the impact of the shutdown over the past few the edge of Wicklow Mountains consists of landowners, hunters sea level." In total there are about
months. National Park, and it is not yet and other interested parties, who 50 landowners involved in the pro-
Minister Harris said “The new Bray Primary Care Clinic GP Practice; Public Health Nursing; Dental; known how many deer he killed, if collectively agree upon key objec- ject and only two have firearms for
Centre is now largely complete. The GP practice has Dietetics; Psychology; Occupational Therapy; any. Speaking following the tives on how best to sustainably the culling of deer. Pat explains
relocated to the facility and the HSE is currently Speech & Language Therapy; Addiction Treatment release of the statement, Pat manage deer found in their locali- that any cull is carried out in a
equipping the centre for other services to commence Services; Social Work; Counselling; Physiotherapy. Mellon, Project Manager of the ty. Last year 40,000 deer were very careful and strategic manner
in the coming weeks. Minister Harris added “I am excited at how the Wicklow Deer Management culled across the country, and and is fully documented. He says
“The Meals on Wheels will be moving into the Bray PCC will transform the delivery of healthcare in Project added "The scope of the about 15,000 were in Co. Wicklow. that the aim of any strategic cull is
centre in the coming weeks and it is expected to have North Wicklow. Crucially it will also be able to house project does not include recre- The size of Wicklow's deer popula- to emulate what happens in nature,
addiction services relocated by June and other ser- an X-ray facility which will ensure we can access x- ational shooting and all contact tion is unknown but it's been esti- which means the culling of the
vices will be July/August. Diagnostic services will rays in the community without needing to go to hos- with landowners is conducted for- mated at anything from 50,000 to weaker deer. "This differentiates it
take a little longer”. pitals. It is badly needed and I am delighted to have mally by myself rather than indi- 150,000. Either way, it's widely from recreational shooting where
The Bray Primary Care Centre will include the fol- been in a position to deliver this for our vidual third parties. This develop- considered that Wicklow is home the hunter's aim is to get the 'big
lowing services when it is fully operational: Carlton community.” ment is of great concern to all to the largest deer population in stag'." Pat says that early indica-
involved and will be closely moni- the state, which creates challenges tions of the Deer Management
tored to prevent any further inci- that includes extensive damage to Project's effectiveness are "very
dents of false representation". forestry and agricultural lands, good".
The Uplands Council stated that native woodlands and private gar- "The feedback has been very
"the actions of this individual are dens, the spread of diseases to positive; this can be the roadmap
potentially damaging to both the livestock, negative impact to sensi- for how to proceed and hopefully
reputation of the organisation and tive biodiversity such as upland it can be rolled out nationwide.
the project, and therefore Wicklow peat-land habitats, road traffic col- The demand for more deer man-
Uplands Council is asking any lisions and deer welfare issues. agement units is huge. Deer cer-
landowner who may have been The three-year project continued to tainly have a place in the eco-sys-
approached, or have concerns, to operate during the lockdown, how- tem, but they have to be managed
contact project manager, Pat ever, all activities have been con- and controlled."
Times WICKLOW
LOCAL
Tuesday 23rd June 2020 7
Times WICKLOW
LOCAL
8 NEWS Tuesday 23rd June 2020
'I want to bring
the Council back
to the people'
Fianna Fail's Pat Kennedy from the Arklow Municipal District was last week elected
Cathaoirleach of Wicklow County Council, taking over the role from Cllr Irene Winters (FG).
At last week's 'socially-distanced' council meeting in school teacher in Rathdrum, and has three sons; John,
the Shoreline Leisure Centre in Greystones, Cllr Peter and Ciarán.
Kennedy was officially nominated for the position by In 2019, Cllr Kennedy topped the poll in the Arklow
Cllr Pat Fitzgerald, and Cllr Sylvester Bourke (FG) Municipal District with 2,471 votes, the largest vote in
seconded the motion. His nomination was agreed unan- the whole county.
imously.
On being handed the Cathaoirleach's chain, Cllr
Kennedy praised the work done by Cllr Winters, saying
that she had been "outstanding" in the role and would
be "a tough act to follow". He thanked his fellow coun-
Humanitarian aid agency, GOAL, is calling on young people in Wicklow to join its innovative cillors for electing him unoppossed and said that he
was honoured and humbled.
youth programme aimed at bringing young people in Ireland together with their peers in Africa
There were warm words all around for Cllr Winters,
to contribute to creating a better world. Participants from Ireland and African countries will who was only the third female Cathaoirleach of the
create, trial, and share a development education resource to guide passionate young people on county.
contributing to a sustainable world for all. GOAL is appealing to those aged between 18 and 25 Cllr Kennedy said the Council needs to do better in
with volunteering experience and an understanding of global issues, to apply at promoting its good achievements. He said it would be
goalglobal.org/youth/. Pictured are OAL Youth Advisors Poonam Shokar, Elle Loughran, Lea his aim to "bring the Council back to the people of Co.
Pesic, and Meadhbh Hayden. Wicklow, back to the towns and villages and communi-
ties".
Another one of his priorities, he said, would be to
put pressure on Irish Water to carry out upgrades to
allow for development and increased housing capacity.
Locals objecting to Cllr Kennedy said that the Council was facing one
of its most challenging years in memory, and reminded
his fellow councillors that "great things are rarely
achieved by one person".
Cllr Kennedy was first elected to Wicklow County
plan for 200 houses Council in 2014. Born in Glenmalure, he has lived in
the area all his life and is married to Helena, a primary
Cllr Pat Kennedy, new Cathaoirleach of Wicklow
County Council
in Enniskerry Council’s technical
Objections have been lodged with Wicklow County Council against
a ‘Strategic Housing Development’ of over 200 residential units on
Wicklow Times,
“Having spoken to res-
idents in the
group divided in vote
for Leas Cathaoirleach
Kilgarron Hill within 100m of Knocksink in Enniskerry.
Enniskerry area it is
Local man Pat human activities, such as clear that they feel
Carey says “The spe- people taking shortcuts aggrieved that a devel-
cial conservation sta- using undesignated path- opment that has
tus of Knocksink ways from the new hous- already been refused Councillor Shay Cullen (FG) is the new Leas he felt like he had been
under the EU Habitats ing development into by An Bord Pleanala Cathaoirleach of Wicklow County Council put forward to face
directive, which has Knocksink and littering; has been lodged again following a vote at last week's meeting of annihilation, and he
been implemented Lead to the introduction with little change, and Wicklow County Council. joked that it was remi-
into Irish law, means of invasive species almost no mitigation niscent of the film
that planning permis- through fly tipping of measures for the issues Cllr Cullen was elect- Independent, Labour, Braveheart.
sion should not be garden waste from the raised at the time. ed Leas Cathaoirleach Green, Social Democrat Speaking to Wicklow
granted to any devel- housing development “While there is an by a vote of 21 to 9 and Sinn Fein council- Times after last week's
opment which could which will upset the del- urgent need for hous- against Cllr Tom lors. meeting, Cllr Fortune
adversely affect the icate balance of biodi- ing, developments Fortune (Ind). Cllr The group is coordi- described the result of
SAC. However, there versity; Potentially cause need to be environ- Cullen was nominated nated by Cllr Fortune, the vote as "strange": "I
is a real risk that the flooding due to the poor- mentally sympathetic by Cllr Vincent Blake and forms an opposing didn't think I would win
developer, who was ly designed system for Cllr Erika Doyle and not negatively (FG) and the nomina- block to the Fine Gael the vote for Leas
previously refused dealing with surface affect the community. tion was seconded by and Fianna Fail axis. Cathaoirleach, but what
permission, may suc- water in this develop- source of biodiversity “I will be lodging a Cllr Pat Fitzgerald (FF). However, when the vote makes it strange is that
ceed this time. This is ment; Set a precedent that is Knocksink, and submission asking for The vote revealed an was taken, Cllr Fortune Cllr Shay Cullen we see the leaders of
because it has already for the granting of fur- the architectural integri- a full Environmental apparent split in the was supported by Labour Party and the
had pre-application ther large scale incon- ty of Enniskerry village Impact Assessment Council's 'technical Independent and Sinn Tom Fortune (Ind) for Social Democrats in the
consultations with An gruous developments; which is an important based on the cumula- group' of councillors, Fein councillors but did the position, arguing news having a go at FF
Bord Pleanala (behind Destroy the natural her- gateway for national and tive impact of the which consists of 15 not get the support of that the decision should and FG, so I'd love to
closed doors) and was itage character of foreign tourism into the existing and proposed the Green Party, Soc reflect the fifty percent know the rationale for
given the go-ahead to Enniskerry village and garden of Ireland. developments on Dem, or Labour coun- of voters who didn't then supporting FF and
make this application. result in reputational “This is the time to Knocksink Woods, a cillors. Cllr Cullen vote for Fine Fail or FG at the local level,"
“If this develop- damage to County make a stand and halt special area of conser- was the poll topper in Fianna Fail in this year's he said.
ment goes ahead, it Wicklow as the Garden the dense urbanisation of vation (SAC). his own Municipal General Election. Regarding the coun-
will - Irrevocably alter of Ireland and our Irish an area that is otherwise “There are also District of Wicklow in While Cllr Blake cillors from the techni-
the intricate ground- green credentials. It will seen, both at home and concerns around the last year's local elec- mentioned Cllr Cullen's cal group that didn't
water systems that nevitably lead to infras- in European law, as a density of the develop- tions and received the experience, Cllr Snell vote for him, Cllr
feed the petrifying tructural problems for place of natural beauty ment, the resultant second-highest number pointed out that Cllr Fortune said he's unsure
springs which are the locality as we do not and ecological diversity. traffic, the limitations of first preference votes Fortune has been a what their position will
very sensitive to any have the roads, lighting, “Anyone wishing to of the surrounding in the county, next to councillor since 2004. be going forward and
disturbances in the paths, water and waste object has only until roads and the knock Cllr Kennedy. He was Cllr Mary Kavanagh that the situation would
land; Make systems in place to han- next Monday to lodge on effect on school elected as a first-time seconded the proposal be reviewed. "If
Knocksink extremely dle a development of their objection with places and also candidate in 2014. Cllr of Cllr Fortune for Leas there's some agenda, I
vulnerable to habitat this size. Wicklow County the effects on Cullen is a resident of Cathaoirleach, calling don't know what it is,"
and biodiversity loss “We need to preserve Council,” he concluded. the residents of Newtownmountkennedy him a "hard worker and he said. "I know how
from the pressures the special area of con- Cllr Erika Doyle, Parknasillogue,” and grew up in committed representa- politics works, but that
caused by increased servation and important Green Party, told concluded Cllr Doyle. Roundwood. Cllr John tive". Following the doesn't make it fair or
Cllr Tom Fortune
Snell put forward Cllr vote, Cllr Fortune said right".
Times WICKLOW
LOCAL
Tuesday 23rd June 2020 NEWS 9
O'Connor elected
as new Chair of
Climate SPC
Independent Councillor Rory O'Connor has been elected Chair of Wicklow County Council's
Climate & Biodiversity Action Strategic Policy Committee. Cllr O'onnor has backed the
Government's Government deal to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 7% per annum.
Councillor O'Connor and relevant sectoral election, it needs drastic
will be the youngest interests an opportunity action now or we will
Committee Chair in the for full involvement in all pay the conse-
history of the State, at the policy making pro- quences."
the age of 21. O'Connor cess of the Council from Green Party TD
will take the first two the early stages. Steven Matthews pro-
years as Chair and The position of Chair posed the formation of
Councillor Lourda Scott was filled by Jennifer the new Strategic Policy
will the final two years. Whitmore TD and Committee (SPC) dedi-
The Strategic Policy Steven Matthews TD cated to climate and bio-
Committee assists the prior to their election to diversity action when he
council in the formula- Dáil Éireann. was a councillor last
tion, development and Councillor Rory year. The committee’s
review of Climate & O'Connor said: "I would role is to produce cli-
Biodiversity policy. The like to thank all my col- mate and biodiversity
Council is and remains leagues for supporting Cllr Rory O’Connor policy and actions for
the decision-making my nomination. My pri- the full council to
authority and it is the ority is to make welcome the new consider.
Jessie O’Connor, with Alya, Jack, and Rose Lowe are pictured at the official opening of the new task of the committees Wicklow a national Government's commit- Wicklow was the first
playground in Roundwood. See more page 17 to advise and assist the leader in taking on envi- ment to reduce Ireland's county in Ireland to
council in its work. The ronmental challenges CO2 output by 7% each declare a climate and
SPC system is intended that exist today. year. Climate change biodiversity emergency
to give elected members "I would also like to can't wait until the next last year.
‘Programme for Government Create a haven for wildlife
lacks 'the needed emergency A new booklet to help people in Wicklow
look after wildlife in their gardens, no
by-step guidance on how to build a bird bath, create
a log pile for hedgehogs and mini beasts, and how to
install a pond or bog garden. With an estimated 2m
response to biodiversity’, matter how big or small, has been
launched. It was produced by Local
Authority Heritage Officers across Ireland,
gardens in this country, action by just some of those
gardeners could make a huge difference for our
native wildlife.
Birdwatch Ireland says with help from the National Parks and
Wildlife Service and the Heritage Council.
Taking a very practical approach, the book details
But it won't just benefit the biodiversity. There is
increasing evidence that time spent in nature is good
for our own mental health and well-being too. As
more of us spend time closer to home, regular con-
BirdWatch Ireland has broadly welcomed the publication of the Programme for projects to help wildlife of all kinds under a range of tact with the natural world has become ever more
Government, which mentions biodiversity 50 times. The Kilcoole-based organisation said headings, with tasks suitable for everyone from the important. A 2016 World Health Organisation review
this represents significant progress since the 2016 Programme for Government which did total beginner to the more ambitious DIY enthusiast. found that urban green spaces, such as parks, play-
not mention it at all. However, Birdwatch Ireland said "there are no clear targets, urgency, With clear instructions and step-by-step drawings by grounds, and gardens, can promote mental and phys-
concrete actions or funding commitments to address Ireland's biodiversity emergency." illustrator Barry Reynolds, the guide offers the gar- ical health, and reduce morbidity and mortality in
dener lots of options to help our biodiversity. urban residents by providing psychological relax-
On May 9th 2019 the Dáil political agenda but much more which leads on the protection of Deirdre Burns, Heritage Officer with Wicklow ation and stress alleviation, stimulating social cohe-
declared a biodiversity and cli- needs to be done to address the biodiversity in Ireland and whose County Council, said: "We are all becoming much sion, supporting physical activity, and reducing
mate emergency, based on grave biodiversity emergency. We sup- funding has never recovered from more conscious of nature on our doorstep and more exposure to air pollutants, noise and excessive
national and international scientif- port the direction of travel of this the 2008 recession cuts. people than ever are taking an interest in the birds, heat.[i]
ic evidence that humanity was a Programme for Government and Oonagh Duggan continued: bees and bugs that are visiting their gardens. County "Gardening for Biodiversity", funded by the
having a devastating impact on we will work hard with all parties "The proposed €1.5bn REPS 2 Wicklow is known as the 'Garden of Ireland' and we Department for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht
habitats, species and on our cli- to ensure that much more will be scheme encourages planting of hope that this little guide will help anyone who has as part of an initiative to encourage projects under
mate. achieved for wild birds and their native forestry and enhancing bio- the time and interest now to make their garden a the National Biodiversity Action Plan, is available to
Birdwatch Ireland submitted 50 habitats, other biodiversity and a diversity, but this new money will haven for wildlife." download for free at www.wicklow.ie /heritage or
detailed sectoral and cross cutting stable climate." need to be strategically targeted so With increasing agricultural intensification, gar- free hard copies can be ordered by e mailing
"asks" in advance of government Birdwatch Ireland has called on that the most threatened species dens in many areas can be an oasis for wildlife, and dburns@wicklowcoco.ie
formation talks and based on our the new government to set up a and habitats benefit and are not with small changes we can make them even better.
Manifesto for Nature to address long-promised Citizens' Assembly further threatened. The guide outlines actions that can be taken to
the biodiversity emergency. Two to address biodiversity loss within "Ireland has been a leader in improve gardens for birds, bees, butterflies, bats and
of those asks are included in the its first 100 days. targeted results-based agri-envi- more, and the good news is many of the steps that
Programme for Government and While the Programme commits ronment schemes but there needs can be taken are really easy.
there are partial commitments to to the EU Green Deal, there are to be many more. We welcome Just leaving an "untidy" corner of your garden for
six others. no firm commitments to the ambi- the support in the Programme for nature, leaving roadside verges to grow naturally or
BirdWatch Ireland said "The tious targets of the EU Government for these. Supporting allowing some of the gold star plants for biodiversity
Programme for Government had Biodiversity Strategy 2030 which landscape scale, well-funded - dandelion, willow, bramble, clover, ivy to thrive in
an opportunity to reflect the scien- a key part of BirdWatch Ireland's actions with long contracts would a small patch of your garden can reap huge divi-
tific evidence and to bring back "asks" of political parties in the incentivise farmers to farm for dends for wildlife.
thriving biodiversity as a perma- run-up to this year's General Curlew (and other threatened Author of the guide, Juanita Browne, said: "I
nent feature of the Irish landscape Election, including setting a legal- species), or to farm for carbon. hope that this simple guide to gardening with biodi-
through transformational policies, ly binding target that at least 30% "In relation to the Marine the versity in mind will help all of us to create gardens
but it has only touched the tip of of Irish land and sea be primarily EU Biodiversity Strategy targets that are more wildlife-friendly. Gardening for biodi-
the iceberg. Sectoral safeguards managed for nature with 10% of 30% designation for nature and versity doesn't equate to letting your garden go wild,
for biodiversity are also missing strictly protected and a target of 10% strict protection by 2030 but simply doing things a little differently. For
including the urgent need to restoration of 15% of terrestrial must be set in stone. The transfor- instance, when choosing plants to buy in a garden
address gaps in the knowledge on habitats and seas. mational policies required based centre, perhaps you could choose plants that have
seabirds in relation to offshore BirdWatch Ireland said it is on the science to address the bio- insects on their flowers. Or you could create a wild-
wind farm development." very disappointed that no addi- diversity emergency are still to flower strip around your lawn where dandelions,
Oonagh Duggan Assistant tional funding has been commit- come and we will work with the daisies, clover and other wildflowers are allowed to
Head of Policy and Advocacy said ted to the National Parks and new government to develop and grow. These small changes can bring huge benefits
"Biodiversity is finally on the Wildlife Service, the state body implement them." for biodiversity".
For the more adventurous the book contains step-
Times WICKLOW
LOCAL
10 NEWS Tuesday 23rd June 2020
'West Wicklow's
recreational deficit
must be addressed'
Social Democrats TD for Wicklow Jennifer Whitmore has called for more recreational
facilities for West Wicklow saying "COVID-19 has revealed the lack of outdoor and indoor
recreational spaces for people living in this part of Wicklow and it is time that this is
addressed once and for all".
Deputy Whitmore says based facility for use by community. Recreational
"Since the advent of the local residents and sur- spaces are better for over-
pandemic people across rounding communities. all health and wellbeing,
Wicklow have been enjoy- While other parts of particularly for young
ing, in greater numbers, Wicklow have enjoyed the people who have no other
outdoor spaces in their establishment of sports options apart from sports-
Newtownmountkennedy got a face-lift last week when it was adorned with the artwork of the locality while indoor complexes, that provide related activities.
pupils and staff of Newtownmountkennedy Primary School. With the theme 'I am......' , pupils recreational facilities have not only community "Wicklow Council
and staff made a piece of art as an expression of their experience during Covid 19 culminating in been shutdown. But For swimming pools, but also have been supportive of
five separate displays entitled 'Together - Apart' / 'Le Chéile-Óna Chéile'. those in West Wicklow pitches and sports facili- the concept so far and I
COVID19 has highlighted ties, some areas, such as hope the opportunity will
These can now be viewed during the month of June in The Post Office, Eugene's Foodstore, The
the lack of space for recre- West Wicklow have been Jennifer Whitmore TD be grasped to really turn
Credit Union, Adrian Dunnes Pharmacy and The Parkview Hotel. The project highlights the this site into a first-class
ational use. Now that the left behind. It's time to
collaborative and supportive community in Newtownmountkennedy and the hope, optimism lifting of restrictions will address this recreational will bring in more footfall sports facility for the town
and resilience they hold. eventually see facilities deficit by moving on the beneficial to local busi- and district.
reopening across proposals put forward by nesses. It would also link "We need to maximise
Wicklow, a recreational community groups partic- in well with the tourism the funding of community
Increase in visitors brings deficit is emerging in West
Wicklow which must be
addressed sooner rather
ularly the Pool for West
Wicklow Committee.
"There is sufficient land
opportunities at the site,
particularly once the
Blessington Greenway is
facilities, such as swim-
ming pools, skate parks
and robust activity areas
increase in litter to Glenmalure than later.
"Since before I was
elected as TD, I was in
available to the Council
near the Avon Ri Hotel,
which has so much poten-
fully operational. "County
Wicklow as a commuter
town has been experienc-
through the Sports Capital
Programme, and other
funding streams. Young
close contact with a num- tial for development as a ing rapid population and old alike will benefit
An increase in visitors to the Wicklow Uplands recently, as a result of the good weather and
ber of community groups recreational centre and I growth, yet services have from more parks, commu-
an easing of travel restrictions, has led to an increase in littering and illegal dumping, not caught up with the nity centres, allotments
in West Wicklow, includ- have been in touch with
PURE Project have observed. ing the Pool for West Wicklow Council on the needs of expanding com- and green spaces, and
Wicklow committee in matter who see the poten- munities across the coun- recreational centres as
The latest area to be affected was the Glenmalure Wicklow County Council also recorded a signifi-
Blessington, the Allotment tial of such a develop- ty. Recreational facilities proposed by the Pool for
Valley, where over the second weekend in June there cant increase in illegal dumping and fly tipping
group and Blessington ment. Not only would res- seem to be an afterthought West Wicklow
were numerous incidences of camping sites being before lockdown restrictions were eased.
Football Club. They have idents of Blessington ben- in overall planning and Committee. I look for-
abandoned and litter left behind. All domestic waste services have noted increases
revealed the level of efit from such a develop- development when really ward to working with the
Rubbish removed included, tents, camping chairs, in waste generated at home as people spend more
demand for more recre- ment but also surrounding we need to think of recre- Council and the commu-
sleeping bags, barbeques, bottles, cans, and numer- time there. The increase in dumping is most notice-
ational spaces in the area, communities who by visit- ation as a necessary pillar nity on these important
ous other items, which were all were discarded on ably in the form of small-scale fly tipping with indi-
particularly for a pool- ing a centre such as this to the sustainability of any projects."
the landscape. All the gathered waste was taken vidual items dumped or small quantities of house-
away by a PURE Truck last Tuesday morning. hold waste by individuals.
Ian Davis, Manager of Pure commented, "The
Glenmalure Pure Mile Group, and the Pure Project,
are working extremely hard at keeping the
Glenmalure valley clean and pristine, the way it
Last year Pure removed 150 tonnes of illegal
dumping from the Wicklow/Dublin Mountains, a
56% reduction from the 344 tonnes they removed in
2009. Although Pure recorded its lowest amount of
20 beds re-opened at
should be. The majority of people who visit
Glenmalure respect the valley, however, there are
some who don't, and it's
disappointing and frustrating that a minority of visi-
illegal dumping collected from the Wicklow/Dublin
Uplands in 2019, litter continues to be a problem.
The Pure partnership approach, incorporating
statutory and non-statutory organisations, and mem-
Wicklow District Hospital
tors are running it for everyone." bers of the public, has proven extremely successful Twenty beds in the closed Wicklow District they remain open into the future and that they are not
In relation to the recent littering and abandoned in combating illegal dumping in the Hospital in Wicklow Town have been closed post Covid. Having the hospital open in
camping material, a member of the Glenmalure Pure Wicklow/Dublin Uplands and over the past three re-opened. The HSE confirmed that Wicklow Wicklow Town has always been a major benefit to the
Mile Committee stated, "We responded quickly by years they have recorded an annual reduction in community and the political will must be there to
District Hospital is currently being
organising a well-supported emergency litter pick to illegal dumping activity. This reduction in dumping ensure that it's not pulled from the community again.”
refurbished to fit out twenty social care beds
tackle the waste left behind after the weekend. This is a direct correlation with the increase of Pure Mile for Covid related activity. Wicklow District
ensures that it does not cause any further environ- areas. Hospital closed in 2010 following a report
mental damage and it lets people know that littering Thousands of volunteers are participating in the
in valley will not be tolerated'. Pure Mile Project and this year there are over 550
from HIQA which outlined minor works that
The Glenmalure Pure Mile Group, are requesting miles of roads, mountains, woodlands, valleys, and were needed in the Hospital.
that all visitors to the scenic Glenmalure valley, and upland amenities being adopted, with hundreds of Speaking after he received confirmation of the hos-
the Wicklow Uplands to 'take out what you bring in'. litter picks and cleanups having already taken place. pitals reopening Deputy John Brady said "It's really
positive news that Wicklow District Hospital which
TO REPORT DUMPERS AND DUMPING LO-CALL 1850 365 121 has been closed for the last 10 years is to have twenty
social care beds reopened for Covid related activity.
Sections of the hospital have already been reopened as
a Covid test centre and refurbishment work is ongoing
to have the twenty beds brought online for Covid
related activity.
"In 2010 Wicklow District Hospital closed down,
this was despite a massive community campaign to try
keep it open. Ultimately it was a political decision of
the then Fianna Fáil/Green government that allowed
the hospital to close. They hid behind a report from
HIQA which showed that minor works were needed in
the hospital. Evidence was shown at the time that the
work could be done quickly and economically to
ensure the hospital could remain open.
"The fact that twenty beds in the hospital are
reopening is great news, however it severely exposes
the false reasons that were used to close it in 2010.
The reality is the current minor refurbishment works
in the hospital could and should have been carried out
in 2010. The only thing that stopped it was the
political will.
"Once these beds are re-opened we must ensure that
Deputy Brady at Wicklow District HospitalYou can also read
