Pension system must be reformed immediately-Brady

Sinn Féin’s spokesperson for Social Protection John Brady TD has welcomed comments made by Minister Varadkar today on the need for careful yet, real and urgent reform owing to unsustainability of the State pension. Deputy Brady highlighted that certain issues, such as the inability for many who retire at age 65 to access their pension, could be addressed immediately.



Deputy Brady said:


Sinn Féin’s spokesperson for Social Protection John Brady TD has welcomed comments made by Minister Varadkar today on the need for careful yet, real and urgent reform owing to unsustainability of the State pension. Deputy Brady highlighted that certain issues, such as the inability for many who retire at age 65 to access their pension, could be addressed immediately.



Deputy Brady said:


“I welcome the Minister’s acknowledgement that the current pension system is unsustainable and there is a real need to put a better system in place. While, I agree with the Minister in saying that reforming the pension system will take time, he mentions ten years, there are other issues within the system that he could deal with immediately.



“The increase in the retirement age to 66 years by the previous Government has left many people across the State in limbo when it comes to their State pension. Once people reach the age of 65 they are unable to access their pension and are forced onto social welfare to fill the gap until their 66th birthday.



“These are people, in many cases who have worked their whole lives, some having worked forty or fifty years and had never claimed benefits before. The choice for them at the end of their contract at 65 is to sign on for social welfare or survive the year without any income.



“This increase in retirement age was brought in quite subtly and it meant that many people were only aware of it on approaching retirement. This of course, was the workings of Fine Gael and the Labour Party.



“People at the age of 65 should not be forced on to social welfare and they should not have to wait an extra year to access a pension they have been paying into for many years.



“Under Fine Gael’s plans the pension age will increase to 67 years in 2021 and to 68 years in 2028 and further increases after that have not been ruled out. The pension system needs a major overhaul however; reforming it should not involve forcing 65 year olds on to social welfare. This does nothing for pension reform.



“This is an issue that the Minister could begin work on without delay. It was a bad decision made without properly examining the pension system as a whole which the Minister now intends to do over the next ten years.



“Sinn Féin would immediately reinstate the State Pension Transition (for 65 year olds now and the over 66s in 2021), for those who have an employment contract only until 65 or 66. This should be the starting point for the Minister.”

Personal Micro Credit ‘a really encouraging initiative’ that should be rolled out in Wicklow/East Carlow Credit Union branches – Brady

Speaking after a meeting with representatives from the Irish League of Credit Unions Sinn Féin’s spokesperson for Social Protection John Brady TD has complimented the work they have done in providing credit for the most vulnerable in society and called on the Credit Union branches across the State to sign up to the initiative.

Teachta Brady said:

“I was delighted to meet with three representatives from the Irish League of Credit Unions this week where we discussed the country wide roll out of Personal Micro Credit. This has been successfully piloted in 30 credit unions across the State already.

“Personal Micro Credit is a newly launched initiative which provides a small loan of up to €2,000 for social welfare cash recipients. It provides the most vulnerable in society with small affordable loans to meet genuine needs. This can be especially helpful for families when it comes to managing back to school costs or at Christmas time.“It is really encouraging to see this initiative being rolled out as it is providing financial support for those who need it most and those who would not necessarily find it easy to receive credit. With that, people now have a real alternative to companies such as Provident and other moneylenders who charge exorbitant interest rates of up to 200% in some cases, which can leave families under severe financial strain and unnecessary worry.

“The Irish League of Credit Unions has put this in place to assist those out there who are really struggling. It also ends the perception out there that credit unions will not lend to non-members, those without savings, those on social welfare or those without a perfect credit rating. This is unique and it is extremely welcome.

“It is now up to individual credit unions whether or not they decide to roll out Personal Micro Credit however, it is something I feel should be considered by all credit unions across Wicklow/East Carlow and the State. I hope that credit unions will collectively recognise both the difficulty faced by people in receiving credit and the danger posed by moneylenders which can now be avoided. The success rate of the pilot of this initiative speaks for itself and I strongly support the Irish League of Credit Unions with this initiative as they move to country wide roll out.”

Some in the Dáil have short memories of Loughlinstown closure – Brady

Sinn Féin TD for Wicklow/East Carlow and spokesperson for Social Protection John Brady has been reacting to comments made by Deputy Brendan Howlin in the Dáil. His comments were in relation the threat of removal or closure of some trauma care services from emergency departments across the country.

Deputy Brady said:
“ In his words of wisdom to the Tánaiste, Deputy Howlin commented that she had failed to give reassurance that Accident & Emergency units would not be affected by the unpublished report from the Trauma Steering Group.

“The hypocrisy of Deputy Howlin is incredible given the fact that he stood over the closure of a number of A&Es during his time in Government including the one at St. Columcilles at Loughlinstown in 2013.

“While, Deputy Howlin might have a short memory, the people impacted by the closure at Loughlinstown have been left to join the already overcrowded and under resourced A&E at St. Vincents, a considerable distance away.

“At the time, Deputy Howlin had little concern for the thousands of people in Wicklow who relied on access to the A&E facilities in St. Columcilles Hospital every year.

“If the contents leaked from this unpublished report are to be believed, the emergency services at Naas and Wexford hospitals are under threat. This will be a double whammy for Wicklow and will particularly impact on those living in South and West Wicklow which takes in Blessington, Arklow, Baltinglass and Carnew who rely on these services.

“While this report is yet to be published, it has raised serious concerns for a number of counties across the country. With the loss of Loughlinstown in 2013 we cannot allow further loss of critical health services in County Wicklow.”

Deputy Brady concluded by calling on the Minister for Health Simon Harris to clarify the situation regarding the future of the 9 Trauma units “The people of Wicklow, particularly in the south and the west of the County depend on Nass and Wexford and I’m calling on Minister Harris to give assurances that their future is safe”.

Brady welcomes 45 new social housing units in Rathnew

Wicklow Sinn Féin TD John Brady has welcomed the decision taken at Monday’s Wicklow County Council meeting to grant planning to the approved housing body Cluid to construct 45 social housing units in Rathnew, this is been done in co-operation with Wicklow County Council.

Speaking after the Councillors voted in favour of giving the proposed development the green light John Brady TD said “I want to commend all the Wicklow Councillors that supported the proposal from Cluid to construct the 45 badly needed social housing units in Rathnew. Cluid are an approved housing body and the scheme is been done in co-operation with Wicklow County Council.”

“This is good news and a step in the right direction in tackling the housing crisis in Wicklow. It follows on from the recent approval on 42 houses on the Murphy’s land site in Bray and 20 units at Brewery Bends in Rathdrum. It’s critical that all these schemes progress as swiftly as possible.”

Brady continued “It’s critically important that other schemes are fast tracked across the County in places like Arklow, Wicklow Town and Blessington. I will keep the pressure on at a national level to ensure that funds are made available to ensure the limited progress continues.”

“The hard works of all in Cluid, along with the housing staff in Wicklow County Council have to be commended in getting this scheme to this stage. The staff in the housing section are doing exceptional work in very challenging circumstances and they must be singled out for praise” concluded Brady.

John Brady welcomes news that JobBridge is to be Scrapped

Sinn Féin Social Protection spokesperson John Brady TD has welcomed the news this evening that the JobBridge Scheme is to be scrapped and replaced.

Deputy Brady said his party has proposed and alternative to JobBridge and he will be sending it to Minister Varadkar this week for his consideration.

Speaking this evening the Wicklow TD said;

“The JobBridge Scheme is exploitative and it replaces real proper paid employment. We therefore welcome the news this evening that the scheme is to be scrapped and replaced.

“Sinn Féin has campaigned for an end to this scheme and we have put forward an alternative which would allow for tailored internship programmes with meaningful learning opportunities.

“I will be forwarding this document to Minister Varadkar this week and urging him to consider our proposal as a replacement for JobBridge

We’re calling for the immediate release of the Wicklow 2 – Brady

Sinn Féin TD for Wicklow, John Brady, has called for the immediate release of Eamon McGrath and Seán Doyle, who were remanded in custody for protesting against water charges.

John Brady was part of a delegation of TDs who visited the Wicklow 2 in Cloverhill prison this morning.

Deputy Brady said:

“Eamon McGrath and Seán Doyle are in good spirits, despite having been jailed for almost two weeks. These men, who are in their sixties, are determined – they have taken a stand and will not allow their stint behind bars to weaken their resolve.

“It is disgraceful that the water metering programme continues, despite most elected TDs in Leinster House being against water charges. If the programme was to stop, these men could be out of prison immediately.

“They are well aware that the water metering programme is just a stepping stone to the eventual privatisation of this natural resource. Sinn Féin are in full support of the abolition of the programme and strongly oppose this privatisation agenda. Our Private Members Motion signed by 39 Right2Water TDs next week will put it to up to all those who opposed water charges to show their true colours and support the scrapping of Irish Water and water charges for good.

“It is ludicrous that the installation of water meters is continuing even when the government have tasked a commission to examine the regime. Eamon McGrath and Seán Doyle will be back before courts on Tuesday. We’re calling for their immediate release. We are also urging members of the public to join the 'Free the Wicklow 2' March to Cloverhill Prison which leaves from Cherry Orchard Hospital at 2pm tomorrow.”

Installation of water meters must stop now - Brady

Installation of water meters must stop now - Brady

Sinn Fein TD for Wicklow and East Carlow John Brady has called on the government to stop the installation of water meters and the arrest of protestors. He made his comments as part of a Dáil debate on Irish Water

Deputy Brady continued;

“In February the people decided to elect 90 TD’s to this house with a mandate to scrap Irish Water and Water Charges.

The state has forcefully pursued the Irish Water agenda, with Gardaí and private security firms in tow.

Last year across the state over 188 ordinary citizens were arrested for opposing the installation of water meters, some of which are being installed by companies who have friends in high places.

On 14th April, 14 people were arrested in Wicklow Town for peacefully protesting against the roll out of the water metering programme which is costing over €540m. At that particular protest, not unlike many others, over 15 members of the Gardaí where present acting as private security for a private company.

Last year at a similar protest in Wicklow 17 people were arrested by a force of over 30 Gardaí. The irony here minister is due to cut backs, Wicklow Town has no Community Garda, yet Garda resources are being squandered in protecting Denis O’Brien.

Would those resources not be better spent protecting the communities from the crime gangs that are terrorising and murdering people in our communities?

Would it not be better to stop raiding the limited resources that local authorities have, in order to hand it over to Irish Water to install meters?

The mandate they have given to the majority of TDs here is for the total scrapping of Water metering, Irish Water and Water Charges.”

Number of Wicklow motions passed at successful Sinn Féin Ard Fheis - Brady

Wicklow Sinn Féin TD John Brady hailed the parties annual Ard Fheis as a huge success. The Ard Fheis was held on April 22nd and 23rd in the Convention Centre in Co Dublin, the eve of the centenary of the 1916 Rising. A large number of delegates from Wicklow attended the event, which seen 3500 delegates from across Ireland debate many motions over the course of the two day event.

Speaking after the event Teachta Brady said “The Sinn Féin Ard Fheis was a huge success, delegates travelled from across Ireland to debate many motions on many issues from the crisis in health and housing to mental health, workers rights and the fire service amongst many others”.

Brady continued “Delegates from Wicklow put forward numerous motions for the Ard Fheis and I’m delighted that all were passed by the membership. I proposed and spoke to a number of motions over the course of the Ard Fheis including one on the discriminatory two tier pay structures that have been introduced for nurses, teachers and the Gardaí.”

“The vital role people working in the public service do, particularly our Gardaí, nurses and teachers must be commended. However with the introduction of the discriminatory two tier pay scales that were introduced in 2011 for new nurses, teachers and Gardaí, have created an environment that is eroding morale, sapping goodwill and breeding discontent and resentment. Having a multiplicity of pay rates for the same work was a regressive concept and completely untenable.”

“The two-tier pay system must end. We need a fairer system that rewards people based on their work and is not defined by when they began their career. We need a system that delivers a fair day’s work for a fair day’s pay. I’m delighted that this motion passed unanimously by the membership.”

Brady concluded “The buoyant conference passed many progressive motions dealing with housing, water charges, rural affairs, health amongst others. Eight weeks after the election Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil are still courting each other whilst there is no political accountability. We in Sinn Féin will talk to anyone; work with everyone who shares our goals, many of which were debated at our Ard Fheis.

We will not sit on our hands or stand idly by. However, we will not prop up a Fine Gael government that favours only the wealthy and disregards the rest. We will not facilitate the austerity Taoiseach Enda Kenny back into government and we make no apology for that. We will not play the game of make believe that Fianna Fáil are acting responsibly or in the ‘National Interest’.”

Ends





For more information contact



John Brady 087-0666780





Speech delivered by Teachta John Brady, Steenie Mulvey Cuman, Bray

Speaking in support of motion 73.



Ireland north and south has a low pay problem and it’s getting worse. Eradicating low pay is central to building a just, fair, equal and sustainable economy on the island of Ireland.

The twenty six counties has the dubious distinction of having the second highest percentage of low paying jobs in the OECD, coming a close second to the United States which was the highest.

There are continuous battles to try protect workers’ rights, entitlements and pay. We salute and stand in solidarity with the Dunnes Stores, Tesco, LUAS and all other workers who have fought and continue to fight for their rights and entitlements.

Big Jim Larkin once said “Those who want to divide the workers have resorted to the foulest methods”

Unfortunately those foulest methods are still being deployed.

Fianna Fáil, Fine Gael and the so called Labour party have not only failed to introduce robust legislation that would protect vulnerable workers from unscrupulous employers and vulture capitalists.

They are actually the drivers of the two tiered public services and worker’s pay and conditions.

They are the ones that have resorted to the foulest methods to divide workers. They are the ones that preside over the slave labour activation schemes such as Gateway and Job Bridge. They have also, as employers pitted worker against worker.

This Ard Fheis commends and fully recognises the vital role people working in the public service do, particularly our Gardaí, nurses and teachers.

However with the introduction of the discriminatory two tier pay scales that were introduced in 2011 for new nurses, teachers and Gardaí, they have created an environment that is eroding morale, sapping goodwill and breeding discontent and resentment. Having a multiplicity of pay rates for the same work was a regressive concept and completely untenable. As part of austerity-era cuts, the starting salaries for ­graduate teachers dropped 21%.

Over a career, the lower salary scales mean a loss of €100,000 for newly-qualified teachers, when compared with their more senior colleagues.

It could mean an income difference of about €8,000 between two nurses working alongside one another, doing exactly the same job, the only difference being when they started work.

The current entry level pay is €23,171 for Garda recruits. This has lead to one Garda recently describing it as Yellow Pack Pay, indeed the low discriminatory pay levels have seen three recently qualified Gardai resign from the Force.

Apart from the pay inequality between workers, two-tier rates lead to industrial disharmony and resentment in workplaces.

The two-tier pay system must end. We need a fairer system that rewards people based on their work and is not defined by when they began their career.

We need a system that delivers a fair day’s work for a fair day’s pay.

Brady slams treatment of cancer patients

Sinn Féin TD for Wicklow and East Carlow John Brady has slammed the outgoing government for their failure to tackle hospital waiting times in his constituency that are putting cancer patients at risk. He made his comments as part of statements on Health being heard in the Dáil today.

Deputy Brady said:

“The chaos in our health service is a direct consequence of the bad policies of the Fine Gael and Labour government, and of Fianna Fail before them.

“Wicklow has been served appallingly by successive governments when it comes to the provision of vital health services. What limited health services we did have been eroded by successive Governments.

“Fine Gael and Labour Government closed the 24Hr A&E in St. Columcille’s Hospital, Loughlinstown, that hospital has served my constituents well for many years, and the staff does fantastic work.

“Imposing the 21,000 patients of that A&E on the already overwhelmed St. Vincent’s University Hospital was bound to fail, and indeed it has failed all our citizens. Currently, as we are speaking, there are 21 patients lying on trollies in St. Vincent’s Hospital, 420 across the State.

“15,306 people are on outpatient waiting lists in St Vincent's, while nearly 900 patients have been waiting for treatment for over a year now.

“The true extent of the health crisis Minister doesn’t stop there. Last week St. Vincent’s University Hospital announced that it is to stop accepting new patients with malignant melanomas for four months, because it does not have enough consultants.

“Melanoma is the third most common cancer found in the 15-44 age brackets. In this State, there are more than 700 new cases diagnosed each year, unfortunately there are 100 melanoma-related deaths.

“Early diagnosis is key to treatment. For patients to be turned away from any hospital for four months is totally unacceptable.

“The Minister needs to take responsibility and ensure that the recruitment of a permanent consultant can take place immediately, so patients can get the necessary diagnoses and treatment.

“In Sinn Fein’s alternative budget for 2016, we outlined how an investment of €383 million would begin to make serious inroads into tackling the crisis. This investment would provide 500 additional nurses, 250 midwives, and 250 consultants to help alleviate the strain on the delivery of frontline services.”

Brady welcomes progression of Arklow sewage treatment plant plans

Wicklow Sinn Féin TD John Brady has welcomed the progression of plans to construct a wastewater treatment plant in Arklow, Co. Wicklow, saying that such a facility will give Arklow the capacity to expand and grow as a town, as well as being a boon to the local environment as it will put an end to the pouring of waste into the Avoca.

Teachta Brady said “Arklow has been constrained as a town by a lack of a proper wastewater treatment plant. This has had a serious impact on the construction of new homes and businesses, not to speak of the effect on groundwater and the quality of drinking water in the area. The campaign to get a treatment plant has been ongoing for many years now, and I welcome this advancement.

Teachta Brady continued “The proposed plan will involve the construction of a Wastewater Treatment Plant for a planned population equivalent of 36,000. The site option that has been recommended is at the Old Wallboard Factory, North Quay, Ferrybank.

“I have consistently said that the treatment plant is the key to unlocking Arklow’s potential. Arklow is one of seven large towns identified by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as having no wastewater treatment. The practice of discharging untreated wastewater to the Avoca River is no longer acceptable and it’s had a detrimental effect on Arklow for far too long. An Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) is being drafted with a view to submitting a planning application in early 2017. Discussions are taking place with An Bord Pleanála as to whether this project will be a strategic infrastructure development (SID) so as its construction can be fast tracked.

“The construction of this plant will give Arklow a new lease of life as it provides the capacity to expand and grow as a town. It will also put an end to the outdated and environmentally harmful solution of dumping untreated waste into the River Avoca. It is crucial that the construction of this plant gets underway as soon as possible. The delivery of the sewage treatment plant is a priority for me, I intended on holding whatever government is in place to account, until it’s delivered."

Tesco is working illegally in ignoring Labour Court ruling-Brady

Wicklow Sinn Féin TD John Brady has accused Tesco management of “Behaving irresponsibly and illegally in ignoring the recommendations of a Labour Court ruling in February which said that the company was to introduce a two per cent pay increase”.

Teachta Brady said “As well as ignoring the Labour Court recommendation for 1000 of its 14,500 Irish workforce Tesco also plans to introduce unilateral pay cuts of up to 15% from April 18th and to change workers’ conditions of employment, work patterns and bonus payments.”

“No company can erode the rights of workers through a desire a merely streamline pay arrangements. The Tesco workers in question signed contracts pre-1996 and now the company has decided that this is simply a nuisance that they can write off with the stroke of a pen. Rather than reward the loyalty of these workers, Tesco would seek to cut their pay and sick leave entitlements. Claims by Tesco that this is about streamlining its systems deliberately ignores the reality that for many workers their conditions of employment will be made worse and their pay packets will be cut.”

“The Fine Gael/Labour government failed to legislate to protect workers, especially low paid workers, and has cleared the way for the extension of zero hour contracts and the exploitation of low paid workers. Whatever shape the next government takes Sinn Féin will be demanding stronger workplace protections for staff.”

Teachta Brady concluded “I would urge Tesco to rethink its current workplace strategy, negotiate properly with the workers union, and step back from what could be a damaging industrial strike.”

Sinn Féin TD for Wicklow/East Carlow John Brady has accused Fianna Fail of “Trying to ride two horses.”

Sinn Féin TD for Wicklow/East Carlow John Brady has accused Fianna Fail of “Trying to ride two horses.”

Teachta Brady said “The decision by Fianna Fáil to reject the Fine Gael offer of coalition had nothing to do with ideological or policy differences between the two. Fianna Fáil’s claim that it still wants to lead a minority government is ludicrous. Fianna Fáil wants to dictate the shape of the next government, retain the ability to pull it down at a time of its choosing and oppose Sinn Féin’s becoming the official opposition. They want to effectively try ride two horses at once, they want to control both the government and the opposition, and that can’t and won’t happen.”

“Citizens are not fooled by Mícheál Martin’s cynical posturing and there is a deepening and understandable public disillusionment with the ongoing charade which has now descended into a farce. If Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil are unwilling to face up to their political responsibilities then both should come to the Dáil next Thursday admit they can’t reach agreement and clear the way for an election.

“Meanwhile the severe crises in health and housing are escalating, industrial disputes are increasing and other serious problems faced by families before the election remain unresolved. Not a day goes by that constituents aren’t contacting me on these and many other important issues; we have a caretaker government, with caretaker Ministers, who in reality don’t care as there is no political responsibility.”

Brady concluded “Only Sinn Féin brought forward constructive motions at the last two sittings of the Dáil to tackle some of these issues. Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael had no difficulty acting together to block these motions. They have no difficulty in working together on Wicklow County Council and many other councils and to exclude Sinn Féin and control power. They need to stop the farce, stop the posturing, or clear the way for another election.”

Dáil must act on mandate to abolish Irish Water – Brady

Sinn Féin TD for Wicklow/East Carlow John Brady has called on the Dáil to recognise its mandate and abolish Irish Water and water charges as the votes of the public have clearly called for. He was making his comments following the arrest of 3 people this week in Greystones at a water meter protest.

Deputy Brady said:

“Last Tuesday, three more water protesters were arrested in Greystones as they opposed peacefully the installation of pointless, expensive water meters in their neighbourhood.

“We need a complete halt to this unnecessary waste of money and resources. Sinn Fein have published such a Bill to abolish Water Charges and Irish Water. We need an end to the sham caretaker arrangements that are in place to facilitate the schoolyard style negotiations going on between FG and FF.

“We need political accountability and the means to debate and put forward legislation for the abolition of Irish Water, not suspension.

“The people had their say on February 26th. This Dáil has a clear mandate for the abolition of water charges and yet it dithers.”

Wicklow Sinn Féin Commemorates the centenary of the 1916 Rising and the proclamation of the Republic

The Wicklow Sinn Féin Easter 1916 Centenary commemoration took place on Easter Monday. A huge crowd of 400 assembled at Bray Town Hall. The commemoration was led off by the Wicklow Sinn Féin colour party and followed by the Rising Phoenix Republican Flute Band.

A wreath was laid at the 1798 monument on Castle Street by local republican Jack O’Neill, Cllr Michael O’Connor and Sinn Féin TD for Wicklow/East Carlow John Brady. The commemoration then proceeded to St.Peters Cemetery.

Wicklow Sinn Féin councillor Michael O’Connor who was recently co-opted onto the council to fill the seat vacated by John Brady chaired the proceedings in St.Peters and welcomed the huge crowd. Wicklow republican Robin Keogh read the proclamation and the names and a history of 16 Wicklow republicans who fought during Easter week was read out by Meghan Brady, Cllr John Snell, Melanie McAuley and Cllr Oliver O’Brien.

Cllr O’Connor then welcomed the main speaker at the commemoration John Brady TD stating “The people of Wicklow have made history by electing the first Sinn Féin TD for Wicklow in 94 years. Not since the election of Robert Barton and Sean Etchingham in the 2nd Dáil elections of 1921 has Wicklow been represented by a Republican in Leinster House.”

The Sinn Féin TD then delivered a rousing speech and stated “We are standing here on the sacred ground of St.Peters Cemetery surrounded by the graves of volunteers such as Steenie Mulvey, Willie Ownes, James Hoey and Seamus Costello who all fought bravely for Irish Freedom and in defence of the Irish Republic as was declared in 1916. They followed in the brave tradition of Fiach McHugh, the O'Byrnes, Michael Dwyer, Joseph Holt, Billy Byrne, Sam McAllister and Anne Devlin and many, many others from Wicklow that fought the occupation of our country.”

He went on to say that “The Republic that was declared in 1916 still has to be achieved and there is now more support for Sinn Féin and Irish republicanism than at any other time in our history. The promise of the republic is in our hands. We must now use that position to build the demand for real change. For unity and for a republic that honours the men and women of 1916 and all our patriots.”

Wreaths were laid on the grave of Bray man Stephen (Steenie) Mulvey by John Brady TD and family members of Steenie. Mulvey fought in the GPO during Easter week. One was also laid at the 1916 monument in the cemetery for all that died in the struggle for Irish Independence.
The commemoration finished with the playing of Amhrán na bhFiann.

Homeless crisis is direct and shockin result of government policy - Brady

Sinn Féin TD for Wicklow/East Carlow John Brady has said today that the homelessness crisis was a direct result of government policy. Speaking as part of a debate on Housing and Homelessness in the Dáil, he said that 68 families faced eviction in Wicklow Circuit Court yesterday and that protecting people from eviction must be a priority for any new government.

Deputy Brady said;

"Today homelessness affects thousands of children and their parents, many of whom are in full-time employment but have been forced on to the streets due to spiralling uncontrolled rents and a catalogue of pitiful policy failures.

100 years on from the Easter Rising of 1916, there are nearly 6,000 people in emergency accommodation, 1,830 of them children.

In my own constituency of Wicklow/East Carlow, 146 families including 240 children presented as homeless in 2015. This is certainly not the republic envisaged by the women and men of 1916.

In the circuit court in Wicklow yesterday 68 families stood facing eviction from their homes by financial institutions that we bailed out to the tune of 64 billion euro and in some cases we actually own.

They feel helpless in the hands of a system that treats them as no more than a statistic. A system which sees them as an inconvenience and an embarrassing reminder of the incompetence of government who put banks, financiers, developers and corporations ahead of the people, the people they are sworn to represent.

The situation these families and thousands more like them across the country find themselves in, is a DIRECT and SHOCKING consequence of government ignorance, government failures and government indifference.

All this has been described as a national emergency and a national crisis and this is true. But let nobody be under any illusion,
It is a shame, a damned shame on this house and on all those who occupied the government benches over the last ten years.

The implementation of the Land and Conveyancing Act 2013 is now facilitating the repossession of the family home, forcing more and more families onto the streets.

The priority of this caretaker government and whatever new one is put in place should be to protect the family home and stop more becoming statistic also."

Wicklow Sinn Fein Announce 1916 Commemorative Event

Wicklow Sinn Fein has announced details of its foremost 1916 commemorative event. The main speaker at the event will be recently elected Sinn Fein TD for Wicklow and East Carlow John Brady. The assembly point will be outside Bray Town Hall at 12.15pm on Monday 28th March. The procession will continue to St Peter’s Cemetery, Little Bray where guest speaker John Brady will address attendees. Teachta Brady has said that he is honoured to be part of the commemoration which offers an opportunity for Wicklow citizens to remember the vital role played by Wicklow Volunteers in the events of Easter 1916:

“Wicklow has a proud tradition in the annals of Irish Republicanism. After the 1798 Rebellion the county remained full of Republicans who refused to surrender; so much so that the British were forced to build the Military Road in order to reach those areas inhabited by rebels who had been a thorn in the side of the British administration for decades. By the time of the 1916 rising, Wicklow had established itself as a centre of Republican activity; providing brave Irishmen and Women committed to the fight for Irish freedom. The Kilcoole gunrunning of 1914 provided crucial arms for the 1916 Rising and galvanised support across the County. Refusing to accept the countermand from Eoin MacNeill many Wicklow volunteers made the journey to Dublin and fought gallantly during Easter week.”

Teachta Brady went on to say that the event is one of many Sinn Fein events occurring all over the county to mark the 1916 centenary and is open to all who wish to attend:

“In this the centenary of the 1916 rising, Wicklow Sinn Fein commemorate the sacrifice of thousands of Men and Women from Wicklow and beyond who fought to free their Country. Our commemoration this Easter Monday will be one of remembrance and reflection, open to all who wish to honour the memory of those Wicklow Volunteers who selflessly gave of themselves for a Republic that we have yet to fully realise; and one that Sinn Fein as a party is dedicated to achieving.”

First day in the Dáil, everything has changed but nothing's different-Brady

Speaking after the 32nd Dail failed to elect a Taoiseach, Wicklow/ East Carlow Sinn Fein TD John Brady has said that despite the failure to appoint a government, an opportunity was lost to maintain focus on critical issues facing people across the country:

“The new Dail failed to ratify the appointment of a Taoiseach and a new government so the house has been adjourned until the 22ndMarch; under pressure they moved it back from 6th April which was their original intention. Enda Kenny has resigned as Taoiseach but will carry on in a caretaker role until such time as a new government is formed. Sinn Fein proposed that the Dail would sit for three days to discuss the many issues facing the country such as the crisis in health, housing and the ongoing debacle of Irish Water. However, Fianna Fail after declaring its commitment to reform of how the Dail operates, refused to support our motion. This means that on the 22nd March the Dail will meet again and do nothing more than re-adjourn with none of the ministers in charge of the various departments held to account.”

On the Issue of Dail reform Teachta Brady said that the Irish people have more to be worried about:
“Sinn Fein have been fighting for Dail reform since we first stepped foot in the house. While we welcome Fianna Fail’s late conversion to the Idea we need to be realistic. The Irish people are concerned about homelessness, the housing crisis, child poverty and the endless hospital waiting lists. Patients on trolleys are to be left languish until Fianna Fail and Fine Gael are in the right mood to tackle them. Ministers in charge of the various departments will continue to be paid but will not be at their desks while struggling families simply have to wait.”

Teachta Brady pointed out that not only will the various ministers not be held to account over the next few weeks, there are no committees to oversee the various departments:

“Sinn Fein called for committees to be immediately established to help deal with crisis areas in the absence of a government being formed. This call was ignored meaning not only are ministers left off the hook, there are no committees to keep an eye on the functioning of the relevant departments.”

In conclusion Teachta Brady pointed out that the issue of Irish Water could have been dealt with if the political will was present:

“Over one hundred TDs were elected on the basis that they would abolish Irish Water. This includes Fianna Fail whose late conversion to the idea was welcome by those of us who have opposed the measure from the get go. Fianna Fáil, in the first meaningful vote on the management of Dáil business on the first day of the 32nd Dáil, voted with the government to block the Sinn Féin proposal. It is simply unacceptable that Fianna Fáil would vote with of Fine Gael and Labour to block a Sinn Féin motion on scrapping Irish Water and water charges, which that party claimed was a red line issue for it. However, this too has been left to fester as the caretaker government backed by Fianna Fail takes what is effectively an extended holiday. But there is no holiday for those struggling to pay the charges, no holiday for those on housing waiting lists or those occupying hospital trolleys, no holiday for medical professionals struggling with overcrowding, no holiday for the tens of thousands of children and parents suffocating under the weight of poverty and no holiday for those families crushed by negative equity. No matter what challenges face the Dail in putting together a government, there is simply no logical reason why TDs and ministers cannot be at their desks doing the jobs they are paid to do. “

Brady is battling for the last seat, every vote matters

I have just got the results of a leaked opinion poll that was carried out in Wicklow/East Carlow. It shows me in a mammoth battle along with 2 other candidates for the 5th and final seat. Every single vote is going to be critical, so it's vital that everyone makes a huge effort to get out on Friday and vote No.1 John Brady. We missed winning the seat by 112 votes in 2011.

If you want a strong voice in the Dáil, if you want a alternative progressive government, if you want an end to the chaos in housing and our health service. Well then vote No.1 John Brady.

Let's not hit the bar again this time, let's make history by electing the first Sinn Féin TD in Wicklow in over 90 years. Please share this to ensure people get the message and make the effort to get out and vote.

Brady humbled and honoured to get endorsement from nephew of Kevin Barry

Sinn Fein candidate for Wicklow /East Carlow Cllr John Brady has said he is humbled and honoured to have received the endorsement of Kevin Barry; the nephew of murdered Irish Volunteer Kevin Gerard Barry:

“In 1920, at only 18 years of age Kevin Barry was executed by the British, his murder outraged nationalist Ireland and his memory has been immortalised in music and poetry”

“In the final days of this election campaign, Wicklow Sinn Fein were delighted to welcome First Minister Martin McGuinness on the campaign trail. The entire Sinn Fein entourage where very much looking forward to our stop at Rathvilly in East Carlow where we were scheduled to meet with locals and do a canvass in the area. Myself and Martin McGuinness were honoured to have the nephew of executed republican icon Kevin Barry in attendance (also named Kevin Barry), he regaled us with stories of his family’s long history in the area and the precious memories of his famous uncle which have been proudly passed down through the generations.”

Councillor Brady went on to say how Kevin Barry’s words were an inspiration:

“Over the last few months of canvassing across Wicklow and East Carlow I have been privileged to engage with some of the most marvellous people, ordinary citizens struggling with extraordinary challenges; not least our older citizens who have been so shamefully ignored by successive Fianna Fail, Fine Gael and Labour controlled governments. Kevin Barry spoke eloquently of the need for change last weekend, he represented a pure and proud history untainted by the crass selfish interests that have done so much damage to the fabric of Irish society. I was truly humbled and honoured that he would single me out for endorsement in the upcoming election, his words reinforced my views of how important it is to stand up for those who feel rejected, ignored and abandoned in an Ireland whose political class have failed to live up to the principles of the 1916 proclamation. Kevin Barry’s endorsement drives me further in my quest to deliver an Ireland of equals, a fairer recovery and a voice of conviction for the people of Wicklow and East Carlow. ”

“Sinn Féin will stand with those in mortgage distress” – Councillor John Brady

“Sinn Féin will stand with those in mortgage distress” – Councillor John Brady


Sinn Féin General Election candidate for Wicklow/East Carlow, Cllr John Brady has stated that his party has a robust and deliverable strategy to address the mortgage crisis.

Councillor Brady said;

"Figures for the third quarter of 2015 tell us that 92,291 family homes are in arrears. These numbers which are the most recent from the Central Bank show that four families are losing their homes every single day. This shocking statistic is an indictment of the outgoing government. Instead of employing empty rhetoric and promises to try keep their seats, Government TDs here in Wicklow and East Carlow should be hanging their heads in shame. Just last December, seven Wicklow families had repossession orders granted against them. Fine Gael, Labour, and Fianna Fail before them, have allowed the mortgage crisis to reach this point. They have failed to adequately intervene as more and more families get pushed into homelessness. "

"The outgoing Fine Gael and Labour government has failed to tackle the crisis. Government TDs Anne Ferris, Simon Harris and Andrew Doyle have stood back and watched as thousands of families live in fear, waiting on letters from the bank, dreading the next bill and distressed that they might well end up on the street.

Councillor Brady went on to say that his party have witnessed the painful reality of families at the end of their rope:

“Sinn Fein have stood with families in courthouses all over the state, and watched families handing over keys to the banks. Those at risk of losing their homes have been neglected by this Government and their plight has been ignored by Fine Gael and Labour TDs in Wicklow. The banks were bailed out of financial difficulty by public funds and now those same banks evict families from their homes. Why is there is no debt forgiveness for ordinary families?”

"Government policies, and schemes like mortgage-to-rent have been disasters, failing to adequately address the crisis. Fine Gael and Labour have changed the law to make it easier for banks to repossess family homes. They have worked with the Central Bank to weaken the Code of Conduct so that banks could put more pressure on homeowners. Schemes to prevent repossessions or so-called, ‘voluntary surrenders’ have been abysmal failures."

"Sinn Féin wants to offer real relief and durable protection to those in mortgage distress. The majority of people in these situations are the victims of circumstances beyond their control, they deserve the help of the Government."

“Sinn Fein in Government will empower the Central Bank to set caps on interest rates chargeable by banks. We will ensure consumer protection is a key priority of the Central Bank. We will mandate the Central Bank to publish data regularly on Irish interest rates, to ensure the public can see how these rates compare to EU norms.

"Sinn Féin will seek to address the issue of personal debt in a progressive way. We will ensure debt collection services are regulated, with a strong and legally enforceable Code of Conduct. In government, we will provide for a cap on the rates charged by those lending money in order to bring to an end the exploitative practices of some institutions."

Speaking on the issue of protections for the family home, Cllr Brady said;

"There are inadequate legislative protections for the family home; we will introduce robust safeguards for the family home in legislation. Putting people out of their homes is a drastic step and devastating for families. We reject the notion that repossessions are accepted as 'solutions'. Sinn Féin will seek amendments to the Mortgage Arrears Resolution Targets to put pressure on banks to find fair solutions for those in mortgage distress."