Sinn Féin in government will repeal the Family Home Tax – Brady
Wicklow Sinn Féin County Councillor John Brady has welcomed the Sinn
Fein bill to repeal the Family Home Tax that was introduced to the
Dail this week and said his party is committed to repealing the tax if
in government after the next general election.
Speaking after the launch of the Financial Local Property Tax Repeal
Bill Councillor Brady said:
“This bill is a key part of Sinn Fein’s alternative to austerity for
lower and middle income families. These families have borne the brunt
of austerity budget after austerity budget under Fianna Fáil and Fine
Gael/Labour. They need a break.
“This tax was signed off on by Fianna Fáil and has been taken up by
the Fine Gael and Labour. There are a wide range of alternatives as
Sinn Féin has consistently pointed out.
“The method of collection of this new tax is brutal. Those who are
accepted as being unable to pay face a 4% penalty next year while
those who can’t pay but are not recognised as being unable to pay face
a 8% penalty. The government will raid salaries, social welfare
payments and pensions to extract this tax on the family home.
“We know the reality that one in four mortgages are in distress yet
these same households who may be in negative equity and have paid
stamp duty now face this extra tax. That is blatantly unfair.
“We saw in last week’s list of exempted ghost estates just how few
exemptions will be tolerated.
“Sinn Féin in government will repeal this tax. Our bill would refund
the tax paid by citizens for the year in which it is scrapped.
“This bill which has been introduced on the floor of the Dáil this
week and will be debated during our Private Members’ Time at the
earliest opportunity.
“We will continue to campaign across the state to win support for this bill.”
Sinn Féin TD for Wicklow/East Carlow john.brady@oireachtas.ie
Wednesday, 27 March 2013
Friday, 22 March 2013
Wicklow Sinn Féin has announced details of its Easter Commemoration.
Wicklow Sinn Féin has announced details of its Easter Commemoration.
Sinn Fein County Councillor John Brady has announced the Wicklow
County Easter commemoration will assemble at Bray Town Hall on Easter
Saturday at 1.30pm and parade to the 1798 monument on Castle Street.
This year's oration will be delivered by Eoin O Broin. Eoin is a Sinn
Fein Ard Comhairle member and Dublin Mid West activist; he is the
author of a number of books and is Sinn Fein political advisor in
Leinster Hse.
Cllr Brady stated "Easter is an important time for Irish Republicans
and we would ask that as many people as possible join with us in what
is the main Easter Commemoration to be held in County Wicklow. We
would also ask that people would wear an Easter Lily as a token of
remembrance to all those who died for Irish Freedom," Clr. Brady said.
Cllr Brady continued “The Wicklow County commemoration this year will
be held in Bray on Easter Saturday 30th March. Everyone is welcome. As
we near the 100th Anniversary of 1916, it is important that as
republicans we keep the memory and the vision of the 1916 Proclamation
alive and part of the politics and discourse of the Irish people. The
vision contained within the proclamation is now more relevant and
required than ever before.”
Sinn Fein County Councillor John Brady has announced the Wicklow
County Easter commemoration will assemble at Bray Town Hall on Easter
Saturday at 1.30pm and parade to the 1798 monument on Castle Street.
This year's oration will be delivered by Eoin O Broin. Eoin is a Sinn
Fein Ard Comhairle member and Dublin Mid West activist; he is the
author of a number of books and is Sinn Fein political advisor in
Leinster Hse.
Cllr Brady stated "Easter is an important time for Irish Republicans
and we would ask that as many people as possible join with us in what
is the main Easter Commemoration to be held in County Wicklow. We
would also ask that people would wear an Easter Lily as a token of
remembrance to all those who died for Irish Freedom," Clr. Brady said.
Cllr Brady continued “The Wicklow County commemoration this year will
be held in Bray on Easter Saturday 30th March. Everyone is welcome. As
we near the 100th Anniversary of 1916, it is important that as
republicans we keep the memory and the vision of the 1916 Proclamation
alive and part of the politics and discourse of the Irish people. The
vision contained within the proclamation is now more relevant and
required than ever before.”
Wednesday, 13 March 2013
Distress as Wicklow Housing Adaptation Grant for the elderly and people with disabilities cut by 40%
Wicklow Sinn Féin County Councillor John Brady has said the cut of 40% to the Housing Adaptation Grant for People with a Disability, Mobility Aids Grant and Housing Aid for Older People Grant will have a devastating effect on the elderly and people with disabilities. The grant given to Wicklow County Council by the Government has been cut by a staggering €387,676.31 in 2013
Cllr Brady said “This is a serious blow for elderly people and people with a disability. The purpose of the grants are to allow the person adapt or modify their homes to enable them continue living there. In Decembers budget the national allocation was reduced from €54m in 2012 to €35m in 2013. Wicklow County Council received notification of their 2013 allocation on 1st March; it has been cut by a staggering €387,676.31.”
Brady continued “These schemes have provided a life-line in the past to many older people and people with disabilities, it has enabled people who have qualified for the payment to convert downstairs rooms into toilets or shower rooms, or to fit a stair lift. The means-tested grants can pay up to 95-100% of the cost of the work depending on which grant is applied for. These further cuts will mean that fewer people will be able to afford to adapt or modify their homes this year, the waiting period for funding will get longer, and inevitably people will no longer be able to live in their homes. Instead, some may be forced into residential care.”
“These cuts follow on from other cuts aimed at people with disabilities and the most vulnerable in society, recently the Department of Health announced that it planned on axing the mobility allowance and motorised transport grant for those with disabilities. Fine Gael and Labour are clearly picking on the most vulnerable in our society and are hell bent on forcing the ordinary people of Ireland to hurt the most for the gross mismanagement of the State by Fianna Fail.”
Cllr Brady went onto say “Housing staff in Wicklow County Council have had to take the difficult decision to write out to elderly applicants who had previously applied for funding to have necessary repairs or improvements carried out to their houses and notify them that their application will not be considered and that the council have to adhere to 3 priority lists circulated by the Department of the Environment on behalf of Minister for housing Jan O’Sullivan.”
Brady concluded “These cuts will clearly affect the most vulnerable people in Wicklow and will inevitably cost the State substantially more if people are forced from their homes and into residential care. I am calling on the 4 Government TDs and Labour and Fine Gael councillors to lobby their Minister for Housing Jan O’Sullivan to reverse these appalling cuts in an attempt to help the elderly and disabled remain living at home where they can have a better quality of life.”
Thursday, 7 March 2013
Questions need to be asked as 280 jobs go in Rathdrum-Brady
Reacting to news of 280 job losses in Rathdrum Sinn Féin Councillor
John Brady has asked where exactly is the governments job retention
plan.
Cllr Brady stated “This will be a severe blow to the workers and the
community around the MSD site in Rathdrum, Co Wicklow. By the IDA’s
own job multiplier over 100 other local jobs will be affected.
Yesterday we had a succession of government ministers claiming that
their plan was working and the jobs crisis was turning the corner.
That is not the experience of these workers or the growing number of
long-term employed or emigrants."
“Six months ago the Taoiseach, speaking at the MSD sister site in
Ballydine, Tipperary highlighted the signs that the economy was
turning when 70 jobs had been created there. Six months later and the
same company are shredding 280 jobs does the same logic ring true?
It’s important that the needs of the workers are met. It has been
reported that some of these jobs have been lost to Singapore. If this
is the case the government must act to access, as a matter of urgency,
the European Globalisation Fund to assist these workers back into
employment." continued Brady
He went onto say "A number of questions do need to be asked however,
where is the governments job retention plan? 280 workers are going to
be out of a job, we need to know that everything has been done that
can be done by the government and the Minister to ensure these jobs
are retained. Also questions must be asked about support this company
received from state agencies and the value of that support in terms of
jobs creation, retention and displacement."
Cllr Brady concluded "Its important that we remember that there are
real people, families and communities behind the statistics. These job
losses would rip the heart out of any community, but they will be felt
hardest in a rural community such as Rathdrum. Everything must be done
to either retain or have a new buyer brought in and the government
needs to take a lead role in that." Ends
John Brady has asked where exactly is the governments job retention
plan.
Cllr Brady stated “This will be a severe blow to the workers and the
community around the MSD site in Rathdrum, Co Wicklow. By the IDA’s
own job multiplier over 100 other local jobs will be affected.
Yesterday we had a succession of government ministers claiming that
their plan was working and the jobs crisis was turning the corner.
That is not the experience of these workers or the growing number of
long-term employed or emigrants."
“Six months ago the Taoiseach, speaking at the MSD sister site in
Ballydine, Tipperary highlighted the signs that the economy was
turning when 70 jobs had been created there. Six months later and the
same company are shredding 280 jobs does the same logic ring true?
It’s important that the needs of the workers are met. It has been
reported that some of these jobs have been lost to Singapore. If this
is the case the government must act to access, as a matter of urgency,
the European Globalisation Fund to assist these workers back into
employment." continued Brady
He went onto say "A number of questions do need to be asked however,
where is the governments job retention plan? 280 workers are going to
be out of a job, we need to know that everything has been done that
can be done by the government and the Minister to ensure these jobs
are retained. Also questions must be asked about support this company
received from state agencies and the value of that support in terms of
jobs creation, retention and displacement."
Cllr Brady concluded "Its important that we remember that there are
real people, families and communities behind the statistics. These job
losses would rip the heart out of any community, but they will be felt
hardest in a rural community such as Rathdrum. Everything must be done
to either retain or have a new buyer brought in and the government
needs to take a lead role in that." Ends
Launch of Wicklow Sinn Fein Family Home Tax campaign timed to coincide with first demand letters from Revenue
Wicklow Sinn Féin has announced a series of public meetings across the
County aimed at opposing the Property Tax and to build a campaign
demanding that the legislation is repealed. The meetings are timed to
coincide with the first letters of demand which are due to be posted
to households from 11th March.
Wicklow Sinn Féin Councillor John Brady has said “On Tuesday 12th
March Sinn Féin are launching our campaign against the Family Home
Tax, the launch will take place in the Royal Hotel in Bray and it is
timed to coincide with the first letters of demand from the Revenue
Commissioners which will go in the post to every eligible and some
ineligible households across this state, this will be yet another
demand from a government fixated on austerity and implementing the
failed policies of Fianna Fáil.”
Councillor John Brady has said “The family home tax will be the last
straw for many struggling families across Wicklow. This week the
government rushed through the second piece of legislation on the
Family Home Tax. Once again their arrogance resulted in little or no
debate on the most important issue facing many people. This cabinet
with their large salaries will not feel the effect of this new tax but
hundreds of thousands of others in mortgage arrears, unemployed or
simply struggling month to month will feel it acutely. The government
needs to get out of their comfortable seats and recognise this fact.”
“Sinn Féin is the only party with a clear and consistent opposition to
a Family Home Tax. This is an unfair tax which takes no regard to
stamp duty paid, management fees or ability to pay in most cases. Sinn
Féin is determined to see this tax repealed rather than simply
tinkered with. We have shown how an alternative Wealth Tax would be a
fairer alternative which would not dampen the domestic economy.”
Brady continued “Recently 70,000 homeowners heard that the AIB will be
increasing their variable mortgage interest rates. This comes at a
time when one in four mortgages are in distress. The last thing the
180,000 mortgage holders in distress need is another letter bearing
unsustainable demands. For the 1.8 million people left with €100 or
less at the end of the month after essential bills are paid this will
be the tipping point. The property tax letter from Revenue to
householders will only add financial stress and hardship to families
across the state. There is no sense in taxing the family home.”
Cllr Brady concluded “Sinn Féin will launch a bill in the coming weeks
which would repeal the Family Home Tax. We are calling on all parties
to reflect on what receiving the letter on the week of the 11th of
March will mean for working people and to lend their support to our
repeal bill before it’s too late. The reality of this unfair tax is
now dawning on people who have already shouldered austerity budget
after austerity budget. On Tuesday 12th March Wicklow Sinn Féin will
launch our campaign to repeal the Property Tax. This will be followed
by a number of other public meetings that have been organised across
Wicklow which include, The Arklow Bay Wednesday 20th March. The Corner
House, Carnew, Thursday 21st March both at 8pm.” Ends
County aimed at opposing the Property Tax and to build a campaign
demanding that the legislation is repealed. The meetings are timed to
coincide with the first letters of demand which are due to be posted
to households from 11th March.
Wicklow Sinn Féin Councillor John Brady has said “On Tuesday 12th
March Sinn Féin are launching our campaign against the Family Home
Tax, the launch will take place in the Royal Hotel in Bray and it is
timed to coincide with the first letters of demand from the Revenue
Commissioners which will go in the post to every eligible and some
ineligible households across this state, this will be yet another
demand from a government fixated on austerity and implementing the
failed policies of Fianna Fáil.”
Councillor John Brady has said “The family home tax will be the last
straw for many struggling families across Wicklow. This week the
government rushed through the second piece of legislation on the
Family Home Tax. Once again their arrogance resulted in little or no
debate on the most important issue facing many people. This cabinet
with their large salaries will not feel the effect of this new tax but
hundreds of thousands of others in mortgage arrears, unemployed or
simply struggling month to month will feel it acutely. The government
needs to get out of their comfortable seats and recognise this fact.”
“Sinn Féin is the only party with a clear and consistent opposition to
a Family Home Tax. This is an unfair tax which takes no regard to
stamp duty paid, management fees or ability to pay in most cases. Sinn
Féin is determined to see this tax repealed rather than simply
tinkered with. We have shown how an alternative Wealth Tax would be a
fairer alternative which would not dampen the domestic economy.”
Brady continued “Recently 70,000 homeowners heard that the AIB will be
increasing their variable mortgage interest rates. This comes at a
time when one in four mortgages are in distress. The last thing the
180,000 mortgage holders in distress need is another letter bearing
unsustainable demands. For the 1.8 million people left with €100 or
less at the end of the month after essential bills are paid this will
be the tipping point. The property tax letter from Revenue to
householders will only add financial stress and hardship to families
across the state. There is no sense in taxing the family home.”
Cllr Brady concluded “Sinn Féin will launch a bill in the coming weeks
which would repeal the Family Home Tax. We are calling on all parties
to reflect on what receiving the letter on the week of the 11th of
March will mean for working people and to lend their support to our
repeal bill before it’s too late. The reality of this unfair tax is
now dawning on people who have already shouldered austerity budget
after austerity budget. On Tuesday 12th March Wicklow Sinn Féin will
launch our campaign to repeal the Property Tax. This will be followed
by a number of other public meetings that have been organised across
Wicklow which include, The Arklow Bay Wednesday 20th March. The Corner
House, Carnew, Thursday 21st March both at 8pm.” Ends
Tuesday, 5 March 2013
Huge crowd turns up for public meeting to save the 145 Bus to Kilmacanogue
Over 150 people crammed into The Glencormack Inn in Kilmacanogue on
Monday evening to attended a public meeting which was organised by
Sinn Fein Councillor John Brady. The meeting was called to discuss the
plans by Dublin Bus to curtail the 145 Bus route that serves to
village of Kilmacanogue and the surrounding area. The meeting agreed a
community campaign of opposition to any plans to cut the widely used
and highly regarded route.
Cllr Brady said "Such is the concern of the people of Kilmac and the
surrounding area about the plans by Dublin Bus regarding the 145 bus,
a huge crowd turned up to the public meeting i had organised on Monday
evening. Unfortunately large amounts of people had to be turned away
because the room in the Glencormack Inn was full to capacity. It was
outlined that Dublin Bus are currently looking at the possibility of
stopping the 145 which currently runs to Kilmac at Springfield
Cemetery in Bray and that officials are currently exploring the
options"
Cllr. Brady went onto say "Many people spoke on the night about the
excellent service the 145 is and how the village of Kilmacanogue and
surrounding areas depend heavily on it. It provides a vital link to
the schools, shops and other transport links in the Bray area and how
Kilmac is cut off with no footpaths linking it to other areas such as
Bray. People spoke very passionately about the service and they are
very determined that the route will remain and they wont allow any
watering down of the service. A number of issues were identified on
the night that could be addressed to improve the service and myself
and the other public representatives that were present pledged to
follow those up at council level."
Cllr Brady continued "It was agreed on the night that a meeting with
representatives from Dublin Bus would be requested and a number of
people from the community agreed to make up the deputation to meet
them. A petition outlining the communities opposition to any cuts to
the 145 was launched on the night and its planned this will be handed
over to Dublin Bus when the meeting takes place."
Cllr Brady concluded "The community of Kilmac are certainly pulling
together to protect the 145 and the resolve shown at the meeting on
Monday typifies what communities are about. I know Dublin Bus will
have a fight on their hands if there are intent on going ahead with
any plan. However we have a very strong argument as to why the route
should be protected and hopefully we can get to put these points
across when we meet them and that they will be taken on board." Ends
An online copy of the petition has also been launched:
www.ipetitions.com/petition/
Monday evening to attended a public meeting which was organised by
Sinn Fein Councillor John Brady. The meeting was called to discuss the
plans by Dublin Bus to curtail the 145 Bus route that serves to
village of Kilmacanogue and the surrounding area. The meeting agreed a
community campaign of opposition to any plans to cut the widely used
and highly regarded route.
Cllr Brady said "Such is the concern of the people of Kilmac and the
surrounding area about the plans by Dublin Bus regarding the 145 bus,
a huge crowd turned up to the public meeting i had organised on Monday
evening. Unfortunately large amounts of people had to be turned away
because the room in the Glencormack Inn was full to capacity. It was
outlined that Dublin Bus are currently looking at the possibility of
stopping the 145 which currently runs to Kilmac at Springfield
Cemetery in Bray and that officials are currently exploring the
options"
Cllr. Brady went onto say "Many people spoke on the night about the
excellent service the 145 is and how the village of Kilmacanogue and
surrounding areas depend heavily on it. It provides a vital link to
the schools, shops and other transport links in the Bray area and how
Kilmac is cut off with no footpaths linking it to other areas such as
Bray. People spoke very passionately about the service and they are
very determined that the route will remain and they wont allow any
watering down of the service. A number of issues were identified on
the night that could be addressed to improve the service and myself
and the other public representatives that were present pledged to
follow those up at council level."
Cllr Brady continued "It was agreed on the night that a meeting with
representatives from Dublin Bus would be requested and a number of
people from the community agreed to make up the deputation to meet
them. A petition outlining the communities opposition to any cuts to
the 145 was launched on the night and its planned this will be handed
over to Dublin Bus when the meeting takes place."
Cllr Brady concluded "The community of Kilmac are certainly pulling
together to protect the 145 and the resolve shown at the meeting on
Monday typifies what communities are about. I know Dublin Bus will
have a fight on their hands if there are intent on going ahead with
any plan. However we have a very strong argument as to why the route
should be protected and hopefully we can get to put these points
across when we meet them and that they will be taken on board." Ends
An online copy of the petition has also been launched:
www.ipetitions.com/petition/
Brady concerned about the future of St. Catherine's as at least 30 staff have contracts terminated
Sinn Féin Councillor John Brady has expressed serious concerns about the future of St. Catherine's Association which is based in Newcastle and provides care to clients who have intellectual and other disabilities. Staff at the HSE funded unit were informed today that the contracts of 30 staff members who where on temporary contracts would end in a months time and they would not be extended or replaced. More meetings are due to be held with respite staff and other staff members over the next few days and it appears others staff members are to be cut too.
Cllr John Brady said "I have real concerns about St. Catherine's and their ability to maintain the excellent level of service and care they provide here in Wicklow. Staff members were called into a number of meetings on Tuesday and 30 staff members on temporary contracts were given 1 months notice that their contracts would be ceasing. During the course of the day other meeting were planned with respite staff and others. At this moment we don't have a full picture as to how many staff will go or how many will remain, but its safe to say this is devastating news for everyone connected with St. Catherine's. I also feel deeply for the staff and their families whose contracts are to be terminated, they have given many years service to the people of Wicklow and everything must be done to try save the positions."
Cllr Brady continued "St. Catherine’s Association is a non-profit making organisation which provides education, training, healthcare and residential/respite care to clients who have intellectual and other disabilities. St. Catherine’s Association is funded substantially by the Health Service Executive (HSE) to provide a range of services to families in County Wicklow. These services include Early Intervention for children from birth to age six, Pre-Schools, National School, Respite/Residential living, Outreach, Nursing, Speech & Language Therapy, Physiotherapy, Psychology, Positive Behaviour Support, Occupational Therapy, Transport and other supports."
Brady went on to say "St. Catherine's currently meets the needs of over 250 children and families in County Wicklow and cuts over the last number of years have made things difficult. However the loss of any staff will have an impact and cuts of such a large number is bound to have a detrimental impact. I am planning on having the issue raised in the Dáil with the Minister and i am looking for a full statement on the matter from the HSE."
Cllr Brady continued "These cuts will impact on the most needy in our society here in Wicklow and i am calling on Wicklow's 4 government TD's to intervene immediately to stop these jobs losses that will devastate the excellent service that's provided by St. Catherine's."
Cllr John Brady said "I have real concerns about St. Catherine's and their ability to maintain the excellent level of service and care they provide here in Wicklow. Staff members were called into a number of meetings on Tuesday and 30 staff members on temporary contracts were given 1 months notice that their contracts would be ceasing. During the course of the day other meeting were planned with respite staff and others. At this moment we don't have a full picture as to how many staff will go or how many will remain, but its safe to say this is devastating news for everyone connected with St. Catherine's. I also feel deeply for the staff and their families whose contracts are to be terminated, they have given many years service to the people of Wicklow and everything must be done to try save the positions."
Cllr Brady continued "St. Catherine’s Association is a non-profit making organisation which provides education, training, healthcare and residential/respite care to clients who have intellectual and other disabilities. St. Catherine’s Association is funded substantially by the Health Service Executive (HSE) to provide a range of services to families in County Wicklow. These services include Early Intervention for children from birth to age six, Pre-Schools, National School, Respite/Residential living, Outreach, Nursing, Speech & Language Therapy, Physiotherapy, Psychology, Positive Behaviour Support, Occupational Therapy, Transport and other supports."
Brady went on to say "St. Catherine's currently meets the needs of over 250 children and families in County Wicklow and cuts over the last number of years have made things difficult. However the loss of any staff will have an impact and cuts of such a large number is bound to have a detrimental impact. I am planning on having the issue raised in the Dáil with the Minister and i am looking for a full statement on the matter from the HSE."
Cllr Brady continued "These cuts will impact on the most needy in our society here in Wicklow and i am calling on Wicklow's 4 government TD's to intervene immediately to stop these jobs losses that will devastate the excellent service that's provided by St. Catherine's."
Friday, 8 February 2013
Despite the spin the Anglo Irish Promissory deal is a bad one thats clearly Frankfurts way
Wicklow Sinn Féin County Councillor John Brady, has said that the
government’s “much-hyped deal on the Anglo Irish promissory note
doubles the cost to the taxpayer of bailing out Anglo Irish Bank and
straddles our children with a massive debit. Despite the spin the
Irish Government without even asking for a write-down has given into
Frankfurts way.”
Cllr Brady said “When you cut through all the spin and hype of the so
called deal on the Anglo Irish promissory note is bad for the
taxpayer. The Government have traded the €28bn promissory note debt
for a sovereign liability to the state of up to €60bn. Rather than
seek a write down in the debt the government has kicked the debt can
further down the road. In doing so, it has cranked up the long-term
costs to the state. This debt will now not only be paid by this
generation of citizens but by our children and our children’s
children, for the next 40 years."
Cllr Brady continued “While it may provide the state with some short
term deficit relief it significantly increases the cost of bailing out
Anglo Irish Bank. Across the country today ordinary people are asking
themselves has the debt been reduced and will it mean less tax hikes
and spending cuts next year and the years after that. The answer to
the first question is an unequivocal ‘no’. The answer to the second
question is not yet clear and will be determined following discussions
with the Troika."
Cllr Brady went onto say "It not surprising that the establishment are
trying to build this up as something that it’s not. Sinn Féin has been
consistent since we first raised the issue of the unfair Promissory
Notes payments. They should not be paid. They are not the people’s
debt, not our debt. Extending an unfair repayment period does make a
debt fair or just. When the first payment on Promissory Notes was paid
in 2011, only Sinn Fein members raised the issue in this House. Fianna
Fail didn’t raise a whimper. The first vote ever in Leinster House on
Promissory Notes was called by Sinn Féin. We have been clear on this
and consistent. Others can defend themselves. The people know where
Sinn Fein has stood on this issue. This is Fianna Fáil’s legacy to the
Irish people. This €48 billion debt was taken on by cabinet in which
Michael Martin sat and did not object, by a government in which
Michael McGrath diligently supported to the very bitter end. Today
however it become as much a Fine Gael and Labour party debt as it is a
Fianna Fail one. It is a debt created by bankers and criminals which
we the people are paying off and after this charade is over it will be
more difficult than n ever for the people to throw this debt off.
Brady concluded “This week the government had a historic opportunity
to secure a real reduction in the cost of the toxic banking debt
foisted on the people by Fianna Fáil. Not only have Fine Gael and
Labour wasted that opportunity, they have increased the cost of that
burden for decades to come.”
government’s “much-hyped deal on the Anglo Irish promissory note
doubles the cost to the taxpayer of bailing out Anglo Irish Bank and
straddles our children with a massive debit. Despite the spin the
Irish Government without even asking for a write-down has given into
Frankfurts way.”
Cllr Brady said “When you cut through all the spin and hype of the so
called deal on the Anglo Irish promissory note is bad for the
taxpayer. The Government have traded the €28bn promissory note debt
for a sovereign liability to the state of up to €60bn. Rather than
seek a write down in the debt the government has kicked the debt can
further down the road. In doing so, it has cranked up the long-term
costs to the state. This debt will now not only be paid by this
generation of citizens but by our children and our children’s
children, for the next 40 years."
Cllr Brady continued “While it may provide the state with some short
term deficit relief it significantly increases the cost of bailing out
Anglo Irish Bank. Across the country today ordinary people are asking
themselves has the debt been reduced and will it mean less tax hikes
and spending cuts next year and the years after that. The answer to
the first question is an unequivocal ‘no’. The answer to the second
question is not yet clear and will be determined following discussions
with the Troika."
Cllr Brady went onto say "It not surprising that the establishment are
trying to build this up as something that it’s not. Sinn Féin has been
consistent since we first raised the issue of the unfair Promissory
Notes payments. They should not be paid. They are not the people’s
debt, not our debt. Extending an unfair repayment period does make a
debt fair or just. When the first payment on Promissory Notes was paid
in 2011, only Sinn Fein members raised the issue in this House. Fianna
Fail didn’t raise a whimper. The first vote ever in Leinster House on
Promissory Notes was called by Sinn Féin. We have been clear on this
and consistent. Others can defend themselves. The people know where
Sinn Fein has stood on this issue. This is Fianna Fáil’s legacy to the
Irish people. This €48 billion debt was taken on by cabinet in which
Michael Martin sat and did not object, by a government in which
Michael McGrath diligently supported to the very bitter end. Today
however it become as much a Fine Gael and Labour party debt as it is a
Fianna Fail one. It is a debt created by bankers and criminals which
we the people are paying off and after this charade is over it will be
more difficult than n ever for the people to throw this debt off.
Brady concluded “This week the government had a historic opportunity
to secure a real reduction in the cost of the toxic banking debt
foisted on the people by Fianna Fáil. Not only have Fine Gael and
Labour wasted that opportunity, they have increased the cost of that
burden for decades to come.”
Keeping Communities Safe document will lead to a poorer Fire Service in Wicklow
Wicklow Sinn Féin and the Irish Fire and Emergency Services
Association (IFESA) are jointly holding a public meeting to discuss
the fire service in Wicklow and the impact that the new Government
policy will have on Wicklow. The new policy was enacted by Minister
Phil Hogan, T.D. Minister for the Environment, Community and Local
Government on the 7 February, 2013. The new national policy which is
to be implemented immediately is based on the “Keeping Communities
Safe” (KCS) document which is the blueprint for the future direction
of the fire service. The public meeting will take place on Monday 18
February at 8pm in the Royal Hotel, Bray
Cllr Brady said" There is a lot of concern around the direction the
government is taking the fire service. The Keeping Communities Safe
document which is the blueprint for the future direction of the fire
service was officially adopted by the government as policy on 7
February. I had asked that any new proposals should not be implemented
while the reasons for the deaths of two Bray Fire fighters remain
unknown 5 years on, however this unfortunately fell on deaf ears."
Cllr Brady continued "There is a real fear that the new policy which
is contained in the Keeping Communities Safe document will result in
the loss of hundreds of front line fire fighter posts around the
country, with over a 100 posts being lost in Dublin Fire Brigade
alone. These plans if implemented will see fire fighter numbers
reduced and fire stations closed, it will also seriously restrict the
type of emergency the service can respond to, this in turn will
compromise the safety of the public and communities throughout the
country. Both SIPTU and IFESA who represent front-line fire fighters
have serious concerns about these plans and their members are being
balloted for industrial action such are their concerns."
"Wicklow Sinn Féin and IFESA are holding a public on Monday 18
February in the Royal Hotel, Bray to discuss the impact this new
policy will have on the service in Wicklow. As we already know the
service in Wicklow has serious issues and the fear is this will
compound those problems and lead to greater risk for both the public
and front line fire fighters."
"Speakers on the night will include IFESA National Vice Chairman, Ros
Mac Cobb and Margaret Cahill who has been campaigning for a full time
fire service in Bray since the death of her sister Teresa and her
13-months-old baby boy Chris in a fire in the Oldcourt Estate in Bray
12 years ago."
Association (IFESA) are jointly holding a public meeting to discuss
the fire service in Wicklow and the impact that the new Government
policy will have on Wicklow. The new policy was enacted by Minister
Phil Hogan, T.D. Minister for the Environment, Community and Local
Government on the 7 February, 2013. The new national policy which is
to be implemented immediately is based on the “Keeping Communities
Safe” (KCS) document which is the blueprint for the future direction
of the fire service. The public meeting will take place on Monday 18
February at 8pm in the Royal Hotel, Bray
Cllr Brady said" There is a lot of concern around the direction the
government is taking the fire service. The Keeping Communities Safe
document which is the blueprint for the future direction of the fire
service was officially adopted by the government as policy on 7
February. I had asked that any new proposals should not be implemented
while the reasons for the deaths of two Bray Fire fighters remain
unknown 5 years on, however this unfortunately fell on deaf ears."
Cllr Brady continued "There is a real fear that the new policy which
is contained in the Keeping Communities Safe document will result in
the loss of hundreds of front line fire fighter posts around the
country, with over a 100 posts being lost in Dublin Fire Brigade
alone. These plans if implemented will see fire fighter numbers
reduced and fire stations closed, it will also seriously restrict the
type of emergency the service can respond to, this in turn will
compromise the safety of the public and communities throughout the
country. Both SIPTU and IFESA who represent front-line fire fighters
have serious concerns about these plans and their members are being
balloted for industrial action such are their concerns."
"Wicklow Sinn Féin and IFESA are holding a public on Monday 18
February in the Royal Hotel, Bray to discuss the impact this new
policy will have on the service in Wicklow. As we already know the
service in Wicklow has serious issues and the fear is this will
compound those problems and lead to greater risk for both the public
and front line fire fighters."
"Speakers on the night will include IFESA National Vice Chairman, Ros
Mac Cobb and Margaret Cahill who has been campaigning for a full time
fire service in Bray since the death of her sister Teresa and her
13-months-old baby boy Chris in a fire in the Oldcourt Estate in Bray
12 years ago."
Sunday, 3 February 2013
NAMA confirms it has No properties in Wicklow suitable for Social Housing
Sinn Féin councillor John Brady has called on the Fine Gael/Labour
Government to change their failed social housing policy and to bring
forward a Social Housing Initiative to allow the immediate
commencement of the construction of social housing projects across the
Country to help try resolve the housing crisis in Wicklow. His appeal
to the Government follows confirmation from NAMA that there are no
suitable housing units for social housing on their books in Wicklow.
The Government has said it expects to reach its target of getting
2,000 residential units from NAMA across the state for social housing.
Cllr Brady said "Their is a serious housing crisis in Wicklow and the
current housing policies of Fine Gael/Labour are compounding the
problems for families who are on housing lists with the local
authorities in Wicklow. The Government has adopted a policy of
building no more council houses, this is partially because of the
number of vacant properties across the state on the books of the
National Asset Management Agency (NAMA). However following a question
i had submitted to Wicklow County Council it has been revealed there
are no suitable housing units in Wicklow currently held by NAMA."
Cllr Brady continued "A total of 27 properties, in 3 estates in County
Wicklow were initially identified as potentially suitable for Social
Housing in 2012. 2 of the estates are in Bray and 1 in Greystones.
After further investigation by the Housing Agency, none of the
properties have been deemed suitable for social housing. The estate in
Greystones and one of the Bray estates are no longer available and the
remaining estate in Bray is not suitable due to the size of the
properties."
"There are over 5,000 families on housing waiting lists in Wicklow,
families are now being told that it could be 10-12 years before they
are even considered for a council house. This is completely appalling,
I have always argued that Wicklow is not like other Counties, we don't
have expanses of ghost estates across the County that can be used for
social housing and this has now been proven in the response i have
received. The other Government housing initiatives have also failed
completely. Private landlords have not signed up to the Rental
Accommodation Scheme (RAS) in the numbers they were hoping and only 1
build to lease scheme has progressed in the County, this is mainly
because developers cant secure the funds to progress any major housing
developments. Many people in receipt of rent allowance are now in dire
straits because their allowances have been cut and their landlords are
simply refusing to reduce rents to reflect the reduction, this has
resulted in many families being forced from their rented properties
and desperately looking for a council house."
Cllr Brady went onto say "The current Government policy of not
building any more social housing is a flawed one. Over the last 5-10
years the local authorities in Wicklow have spent millions of Euro
purchasing land for housing, 2 sites alone cost Bray Town Council and
Wicklow County Council over € 9 million, the plans for hundreds of
houses have been drawn up at great expense by the councils in Wicklow,
but unfortunately these plans have been shelved by the Government and
the local authorities have been told that there will be no council
houses built for at least the next 2 years."
Cllr Brady concluded "Over 5,000 families in Wicklow are on the
housing list in Wicklow. It is safe to say their is a housing crisis
and the current Government policy is adding to this crisis. We don't
have the vacant ghost estates like other Counties and the response
from NAMA proves that. The Labour Minister for Housing Jan O'Sullivan
must look at the failed policy of not building council houses and
reverse it. What is required is a Social Housing Initiative, this will
stimulate the building and construction industry, both through funding
additional dwellings and increasing expenditure on repairs and
maintenance. This will help stimulate businesses which supply
construction materials and help to retain jobs in the industry and
also house the thousands of families currently lingering on lengthily
housing lists. The Minister has up until now refused to met public
representatives from Wicklow, I intend on writhing to the Minister and
asking her again to meet a delegation from Wicklow and i will be
requesting special meetings of the councils to take place to address
the housing crisis in Wicklow."
Government to change their failed social housing policy and to bring
forward a Social Housing Initiative to allow the immediate
commencement of the construction of social housing projects across the
Country to help try resolve the housing crisis in Wicklow. His appeal
to the Government follows confirmation from NAMA that there are no
suitable housing units for social housing on their books in Wicklow.
The Government has said it expects to reach its target of getting
2,000 residential units from NAMA across the state for social housing.
Cllr Brady said "Their is a serious housing crisis in Wicklow and the
current housing policies of Fine Gael/Labour are compounding the
problems for families who are on housing lists with the local
authorities in Wicklow. The Government has adopted a policy of
building no more council houses, this is partially because of the
number of vacant properties across the state on the books of the
National Asset Management Agency (NAMA). However following a question
i had submitted to Wicklow County Council it has been revealed there
are no suitable housing units in Wicklow currently held by NAMA."
Cllr Brady continued "A total of 27 properties, in 3 estates in County
Wicklow were initially identified as potentially suitable for Social
Housing in 2012. 2 of the estates are in Bray and 1 in Greystones.
After further investigation by the Housing Agency, none of the
properties have been deemed suitable for social housing. The estate in
Greystones and one of the Bray estates are no longer available and the
remaining estate in Bray is not suitable due to the size of the
properties."
"There are over 5,000 families on housing waiting lists in Wicklow,
families are now being told that it could be 10-12 years before they
are even considered for a council house. This is completely appalling,
I have always argued that Wicklow is not like other Counties, we don't
have expanses of ghost estates across the County that can be used for
social housing and this has now been proven in the response i have
received. The other Government housing initiatives have also failed
completely. Private landlords have not signed up to the Rental
Accommodation Scheme (RAS) in the numbers they were hoping and only 1
build to lease scheme has progressed in the County, this is mainly
because developers cant secure the funds to progress any major housing
developments. Many people in receipt of rent allowance are now in dire
straits because their allowances have been cut and their landlords are
simply refusing to reduce rents to reflect the reduction, this has
resulted in many families being forced from their rented properties
and desperately looking for a council house."
Cllr Brady went onto say "The current Government policy of not
building any more social housing is a flawed one. Over the last 5-10
years the local authorities in Wicklow have spent millions of Euro
purchasing land for housing, 2 sites alone cost Bray Town Council and
Wicklow County Council over € 9 million, the plans for hundreds of
houses have been drawn up at great expense by the councils in Wicklow,
but unfortunately these plans have been shelved by the Government and
the local authorities have been told that there will be no council
houses built for at least the next 2 years."
Cllr Brady concluded "Over 5,000 families in Wicklow are on the
housing list in Wicklow. It is safe to say their is a housing crisis
and the current Government policy is adding to this crisis. We don't
have the vacant ghost estates like other Counties and the response
from NAMA proves that. The Labour Minister for Housing Jan O'Sullivan
must look at the failed policy of not building council houses and
reverse it. What is required is a Social Housing Initiative, this will
stimulate the building and construction industry, both through funding
additional dwellings and increasing expenditure on repairs and
maintenance. This will help stimulate businesses which supply
construction materials and help to retain jobs in the industry and
also house the thousands of families currently lingering on lengthily
housing lists. The Minister has up until now refused to met public
representatives from Wicklow, I intend on writhing to the Minister and
asking her again to meet a delegation from Wicklow and i will be
requesting special meetings of the councils to take place to address
the housing crisis in Wicklow."
Thursday, 17 January 2013
Bray Town Council funding towards a new clubhouse for Bray Boxing Club is welcomed
Bray Sinn Féin Councillors John Brady and Rossa Murray have welcomed
the provision of €40,000 in funding for a new clubhouse for Bray
Boxing club which is the home of Olympic gold medalist Katie Taylor.
This funding is on top of the €190,000 that was allocated towards the
new facility in December through the Sports Capital Funding programme.
Speaking after the Bray budget meeting which was held on Tuesday
evening Cllr Brady said "I warmly welcome the provision of €40,000
towards a new clubhouse for Bray Boxing club. There is fantastic
talent in the club and this money coupled with the €190,000 the club
received in December through the sports capital funding will go along
way towards building a state of the art facility for the club which is
home to the Olympic champion Katie Taylor. A site has been identified
in Ballywaltrim for the development of the clubhouse which must now go
through the planning process. Unfortunately due to an illness in the
family i missed the meeting on Tuesday but i fully support and welcome
the provision of the funding".
Cllr Murray added "The funding from the council coupled with the
provision of a site has to be welcomed. It has been a long process and
for many years the club received no support at council level and only
for the work and continued pressure from my party colleague councillor
John Brady the club would have never got its current facility in the
harbour and probably would be still homeless. It has to be said the
added interest in the club since Katie won gold last year has sped
things along and ultimately helped secure this funding. Whilst i had
to vote against the overall budget on Tuesday because of the Home Tax
and the councils provision of €82,000 to pay Phil Hogan and the
Government the tax for the councils housing stock, i however fully
supported the inclusion of the €40,000 for the Boxing Club".
Cllr Brady concluded "Hopefully things can now move along smoothly and
swiftly to ensure the new clubhouse is constructed to cater for the
club and its new members who have taken up the sport because of the
exploits of their hero Katie Taylor. The allocation of the funding is
little more than the club deserves from the council and is a
recognition of the excellent talent within the club from the boxers to
the coaches".
the provision of €40,000 in funding for a new clubhouse for Bray
Boxing club which is the home of Olympic gold medalist Katie Taylor.
This funding is on top of the €190,000 that was allocated towards the
new facility in December through the Sports Capital Funding programme.
Speaking after the Bray budget meeting which was held on Tuesday
evening Cllr Brady said "I warmly welcome the provision of €40,000
towards a new clubhouse for Bray Boxing club. There is fantastic
talent in the club and this money coupled with the €190,000 the club
received in December through the sports capital funding will go along
way towards building a state of the art facility for the club which is
home to the Olympic champion Katie Taylor. A site has been identified
in Ballywaltrim for the development of the clubhouse which must now go
through the planning process. Unfortunately due to an illness in the
family i missed the meeting on Tuesday but i fully support and welcome
the provision of the funding".
Cllr Murray added "The funding from the council coupled with the
provision of a site has to be welcomed. It has been a long process and
for many years the club received no support at council level and only
for the work and continued pressure from my party colleague councillor
John Brady the club would have never got its current facility in the
harbour and probably would be still homeless. It has to be said the
added interest in the club since Katie won gold last year has sped
things along and ultimately helped secure this funding. Whilst i had
to vote against the overall budget on Tuesday because of the Home Tax
and the councils provision of €82,000 to pay Phil Hogan and the
Government the tax for the councils housing stock, i however fully
supported the inclusion of the €40,000 for the Boxing Club".
Cllr Brady concluded "Hopefully things can now move along smoothly and
swiftly to ensure the new clubhouse is constructed to cater for the
club and its new members who have taken up the sport because of the
exploits of their hero Katie Taylor. The allocation of the funding is
little more than the club deserves from the council and is a
recognition of the excellent talent within the club from the boxers to
the coaches".
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