Mobility Allowance Grant must be replaced without further delay – John Brady TD
Sinn Féin TD for Wicklow/East Carlow John Brady TD has called on the Taoiseach to fulfil a commitment he made three years ago in replacing the Mobility Allowance and Motorised Transport Grant.
Teachta Brady said:
“I raised this issue with the Minister of State Finian McGrath back in June when I was told that the drafting of primary legislation was underway yet, nearly five months later there is no replacement in sight.
“Last week, I questioned the Taoiseach on when the Mobility Allowance and Motorised Transport Grant will be replaced having been cut with immediate effect in 2013.
“At the time, the Taoiseach had said that the €10.6 million allocated for the two schemes would be ring fenced and he hoped a new legal scheme would be devised in the coming months.
“Three and a half years later, we are without any replacement.
“The thousands of people who relied on these payments to assist with their transport costs have been left in limbo since 2013.
“The Taoiseach failed to address my question as to the whereabouts of the €10.6 million that was supposedly ring fenced for the new scheme that was to be put in place a number of years ago.
“People with disabilities cannot be expected to wait any longer for this scheme. They cannot be fobbed off for another three years waiting for a replacement scheme that is nowhere to be seen.”
Sinn Féin TD for Wicklow/East Carlow john.brady@oireachtas.ie
Wednesday, 2 November 2016
Varadkar needs to focus on welfare waiting times rather than leadership bid – John Brady TD
Sinn Féin spokesperson for Social Protection John Brady TD has said that Minister Varadkar has serious questions to answer when it comes to waiting times for social welfare payments.
Teachta Brady said:
“Sinn Féin received the current waiting times for social welfare payments through a recent Freedom of Information request. These waiting times vary but reach as high as 40 weeks.
“Those waiting on the most crucial of payments such as Invalidity and Carers are left waiting for 21 and 40 weeks respectively.
“Other payments include waiting times of 19 weeks for Disability Allowance, 27 weeks for the non-contributory State Pension, with children left to wait 17 weeks for Domiciliary Care Allowance.
“In June, I raised the 19 week wait for Carers Allowance with Minister Varadkar and asked what measures he was taking to tackle this outrageous waiting time. Clearly, there were no measures put in place as this has now jumped to a massive 40 week wait, that's almost one entire year.
“The current waiting times for social welfare payments are absolutely unacceptable. The idea that people who are the most vulnerable in our society are left waiting months for these vital payments is disgraceful.
“Minister Varadkar is clearly spending too much of his time eyeing up his party's leadership position rather than doing his job. Waiting times is something he needs to tackle immediately. I will be writing directly to Minister Varadkar to ask him what he intends to do to improve this situation.”
Saturday, 29 October 2016
Yet more FF and FG election commitments fall by the wayside – Brady
Sinn Féin spokesperson for Social Protection John Brady TD has said that clear election commitments on the Living Alone Allowance made by Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael were quickly forgotten.
Teachta Brady said:
“Both Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil pledged to increase the Living Alone Allowance on an annual basis in their election manifestos yet. This increase was nowhere to be seen in Budget 2017.
“Older people who live alone are among the most vulnerable in our society. Many of them rely solely on their State Pension for income yet, they face the same increased cost of living as all other households.
“We know that additional charges placed on older people such as the family home tax and increased prescription charges have placed a huge burden on our older people. At this time of year, older people see further increased costs with fuel as they try to keep warm in their homes without any increase in the fuel allowance. These costs are made all the more difficult to manage when a person is living alone and in many cases, relying on one source of income. This reality has been ignored in Budget 2017.
“While Fianna Fáil were busy tripping over to each to take credit for the parts of the Budget that were welcome an entire group of older people have been left behind. This is simply another U-turn by Fianna Fáil where yet again, they go against their own party policies.
“In our Alternative Budget, Sinn Féin included an increase of €9 for the Living Alone Allowance monthly; this would make it double what the payment is now. At a time when TDs and Ministers are in line for huge pay rises, older people living alone will see no rise in their allowance whatsoever.”
John Brady TD wishes Katie Taylor well as she embarks on professional career
Sinn Féin TD for Wicklow/East Carlow John Brady extends his congratulations to Katie Taylor, who hails from his hometown of Bray, as she steps into the professional world of boxing.
Teachta Brady said:
“I was delighted to hear the news this afternoon that Katie Taylor has signed a professional contract with Matchroom Boxing.
“Katie Taylor has been a brilliant ambassador for Wicklow and for Ireland throughout her amateur boxing campaign.
“She has been a fantastic role model for young people all over the country especially, for young girls. This will continue in her professional career.
“Katie’s gold medal at Olympics 2012 is seen by many as the highlight of her amateur career but with that also came six European titles and five world titles. I would class her as one of Ireland’s greatest amateur sporting stars of all time.
“I wish Katie well in her future as a professional boxer. I have no doubt that her successes in the boxing world will continue as she takes this step in her career.
“Next month, Katie will make her debut at London’s Wembley Arena and she will do so with the full support of the people of Bray, Wicklow, and her country.”
Thursday, 20 October 2016
Brady welcomes securing of derelict A O'Smith Factory
Wicklow/East Carlow Sinn Féin TD John Brady has welcomed the commencement of works to secure and cleanup the derelict A O’Smith factory on the Boghall Road in Bray and he has said that it’s now time to look at the long term future of the site.
Speaking after the site was finally secured Teachta Brady said “Recently my colleague Cllr Michael O’Connor and I visited the derelict site to inspect the many dangers at the disused factory. We subsequently contacted the council and asked them to ensure the site was completely secured and cleaned up. Thankfully that work has now commenced.”
Cllr Michael O’Connor said “The absentee owners of this property have a legal and moral responsibility for this site, however since AO Smith’s closed in 2005 the owners of the site have imposed 11 years of neglect on the community of Ballywaltrim and Bray. It’s been a battle a day with the owners of the site to take responsibility for it and to ensure it’s properly secured. There is evidence of recent vandalism and drug use and illegal dumping on the site.”
“Children are regularly seen on the site and they run the risk of getting seriously injured as there are many dangers on site. Thankfully the only remaining access into the old factory itself is blocked up now and the site is in the process of being cleaned up.”
Teachta Brady concluded “Now that the site is secured, we need to look at the long term plans for the site. In June Wicklow County Council turned down a planning application for the demolition of the existing buildings on site & the construction of a discount foodstore/supermarket. This 11 year derelict eyesore must be brought to an end. I believe that the site provides an ideal opportunity to bring badly needed employment into the area and I will be doing everything within my power to ensure this happens.” Ends
Speaking after the site was finally secured Teachta Brady said “Recently my colleague Cllr Michael O’Connor and I visited the derelict site to inspect the many dangers at the disused factory. We subsequently contacted the council and asked them to ensure the site was completely secured and cleaned up. Thankfully that work has now commenced.”
Cllr Michael O’Connor said “The absentee owners of this property have a legal and moral responsibility for this site, however since AO Smith’s closed in 2005 the owners of the site have imposed 11 years of neglect on the community of Ballywaltrim and Bray. It’s been a battle a day with the owners of the site to take responsibility for it and to ensure it’s properly secured. There is evidence of recent vandalism and drug use and illegal dumping on the site.”
“Children are regularly seen on the site and they run the risk of getting seriously injured as there are many dangers on site. Thankfully the only remaining access into the old factory itself is blocked up now and the site is in the process of being cleaned up.”
Teachta Brady concluded “Now that the site is secured, we need to look at the long term plans for the site. In June Wicklow County Council turned down a planning application for the demolition of the existing buildings on site & the construction of a discount foodstore/supermarket. This 11 year derelict eyesore must be brought to an end. I believe that the site provides an ideal opportunity to bring badly needed employment into the area and I will be doing everything within my power to ensure this happens.” Ends
Tuesday, 18 October 2016
Minister Varadkar dragging his heels on replacement for JobBridge - John Brady TD
Sinn Féin spokesperson for Social Protection John Brady TD has said that Minister Varadkar could not move any slower when it comes to replacing JobBridge.
Teachta Brady said:
“Sinn Féin welcomes an end to JobBridge just as we welcomed this news back in May when it was first announced.
“Today, five months later, we see another announcement of the end of JobBridge with consultation only now beginning on what will replace it.
“At a recent committee meeting on this very matter Minister Varadkar said that he would ‘have proposals for a replacement scheme for JobBridge in the next few weeks, in October if not in September.’
“I have raised a number of concerns in relation to JobBridge consistently with Minister Varadkar. A recent internal audit report by the minister’s own department has raised issues, not least two marked as of high concern to the department.
“The principles already brought forward by the Labour Market Council on the new programme leave little to be desired. It calls for much of the same – the equivalent of the net minimum wage, to be of shorter duration of six months and to be voluntary. JobBridge 2.0 will not cut it.
“Sinn Féin published an alternative to JobBridge months ago. It is a pity that Minister Vardakar did not see fit to move as quickly. He is dragging his heels on this issue. We can only hope that we do not have to wait another five months.”
Brady expresses concern at sale of Ardmore Studios
Sinn Féin TD for Wicklow/East Carlow John Brady has expressed his shock at the news that Ardmore Studios in Bray is to be sold as a going concern.
Teachta Brady said:
“Ardmore Studios are internationally renowned as Ireland’s leading provider of film and TV studio infrastructure.
“The Studios is highly regarded by the community in Bray and has been home to hundreds of national and international film and TV productions since it was established in 1958.
“While I accept that the news of this sale comes with an assurance that it will not impact on the day to day running of the studios this provides little comfort.
"Last year, it emerged that a stakeholder in Ardmore Studios had expressed considerable disquiet at plans for key directors in Ardmore to set up a rival studio in Limerick putting both studios in direct competition.
"I believe that the development in Limerick is at an advanced stage and this may raise these past concerns again.
“I am aware that Ardmore Studios are in advanced planning stages with some expansion completed as recently as this year and further expansion to follow. I will do everything within my power to ensure that the valuable site at Ardmore is protected and that zoning remains in place solely for the expansion of film and tv production only.
“I met with Ardmore Studios last year and I fully intend to meet with them on this matter as soon as possible. Any threat to such a significant media hub is of national concern and will be of grave concern particularly, to the people of Bray.
Teachta Brady said:
“Ardmore Studios are internationally renowned as Ireland’s leading provider of film and TV studio infrastructure.
“The Studios is highly regarded by the community in Bray and has been home to hundreds of national and international film and TV productions since it was established in 1958.
“While I accept that the news of this sale comes with an assurance that it will not impact on the day to day running of the studios this provides little comfort.
"Last year, it emerged that a stakeholder in Ardmore Studios had expressed considerable disquiet at plans for key directors in Ardmore to set up a rival studio in Limerick putting both studios in direct competition.
"I believe that the development in Limerick is at an advanced stage and this may raise these past concerns again.
“I am aware that Ardmore Studios are in advanced planning stages with some expansion completed as recently as this year and further expansion to follow. I will do everything within my power to ensure that the valuable site at Ardmore is protected and that zoning remains in place solely for the expansion of film and tv production only.
“I met with Ardmore Studios last year and I fully intend to meet with them on this matter as soon as possible. Any threat to such a significant media hub is of national concern and will be of grave concern particularly, to the people of Bray.
Friday, 14 October 2016
As houses prices in Wicklow escalate Brady calls on Minister Coveney to rethink First Time Buyers Scheme
Wicklow Sinn Féin TD John Brady has called on Minister Coveney to rethink his help to buy scheme for first time buyers following the surge in prices for newly built homes since the new measures were announced in Budget 2017.
“Following speculation that the scheme is already leading to a surge in prices for newly built homes I am calling on the Minister to publish any research his department has that convinced him that this scheme was a good idea. In one Wicklow development, the price of a house rose by between €17,500 and €45,000 following the Government’s new first-time buyers scheme.
“Before the Minister pressed ahead with the launch of this scheme the overwhelming majority of expert opinion told him that this scheme wouldn’t work and that it would in fact make the housing situation worse. The first time buyers scheme, available on homes up to the value of €600,000 will simply drive prices even higher and lock greater numbers of people out of home ownership. It is also very telling that Government thinks that struggling first time buyers are considering purchasing homes between €400,000 and €600,000.
“This new measure coupled with the recent changes to the Development Levies rates for houses by Wicklow County Council has done nothing for families struggling to put a roof over their heads. The only thing that the measures appear to be doing is lining the pockets of developers.
“Minister Coveney must now provide more detail on how he intends to monitor the impact of the scheme and if evidence emerges that developers are increasing prices due to the scheme he must give a commitment to scrap it."
“Following speculation that the scheme is already leading to a surge in prices for newly built homes I am calling on the Minister to publish any research his department has that convinced him that this scheme was a good idea. In one Wicklow development, the price of a house rose by between €17,500 and €45,000 following the Government’s new first-time buyers scheme.
“Before the Minister pressed ahead with the launch of this scheme the overwhelming majority of expert opinion told him that this scheme wouldn’t work and that it would in fact make the housing situation worse. The first time buyers scheme, available on homes up to the value of €600,000 will simply drive prices even higher and lock greater numbers of people out of home ownership. It is also very telling that Government thinks that struggling first time buyers are considering purchasing homes between €400,000 and €600,000.
“This new measure coupled with the recent changes to the Development Levies rates for houses by Wicklow County Council has done nothing for families struggling to put a roof over their heads. The only thing that the measures appear to be doing is lining the pockets of developers.
“Minister Coveney must now provide more detail on how he intends to monitor the impact of the scheme and if evidence emerges that developers are increasing prices due to the scheme he must give a commitment to scrap it."
Tuesday, 11 October 2016
Budget 2017 sees more discrimination against young jobseekers – John Brady TD
Budget 2017 sees more discrimination against young jobseekers – John Brady TD
Sinn Féin spokesperson for Social Protection John Brady TD has said that Budget 2017 continues the shameful discrimination of our young unemployed.
Teachta Brady said:
“The increases announced today as part of Budget 2017 include a €2.70 increase in Jobseekers Allowance for those aged between 18 and 24 years. This means that this weekly payment rises from €100 to €102.70.
“Those aged 25 will see an increase of a measly €3.80 from €144 to €147.80.
“This increase will have no impact whatsoever on our young unemployed. In fact, it will do nothing more than incentivise them to emigrate.
“Once again, the Government’s Budget provides our young people with absolutely nothing. While Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil talk about Budget 2017 being about creating a fair and just society, young people do not feature.
“Last week, I asked Minister Varadkar to restore Jobseekers Allowance to the full payment of €188 for under 26s. His response has been to give them a pittance.
“While Fianna Fáil takes credit for the positives in Budget 2017, they may also take credit for this €2.70 increase for our young people considering they were the party that began the discriminatory cuts to young people in the first place.”
Sinn Féin spokesperson for Social Protection John Brady TD has said that Budget 2017 continues the shameful discrimination of our young unemployed.
Teachta Brady said:
“The increases announced today as part of Budget 2017 include a €2.70 increase in Jobseekers Allowance for those aged between 18 and 24 years. This means that this weekly payment rises from €100 to €102.70.
“Those aged 25 will see an increase of a measly €3.80 from €144 to €147.80.
“This increase will have no impact whatsoever on our young unemployed. In fact, it will do nothing more than incentivise them to emigrate.
“Once again, the Government’s Budget provides our young people with absolutely nothing. While Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil talk about Budget 2017 being about creating a fair and just society, young people do not feature.
“Last week, I asked Minister Varadkar to restore Jobseekers Allowance to the full payment of €188 for under 26s. His response has been to give them a pittance.
“While Fianna Fáil takes credit for the positives in Budget 2017, they may also take credit for this €2.70 increase for our young people considering they were the party that began the discriminatory cuts to young people in the first place.”
Monday, 10 October 2016
Fianna Fáil’s newfound concern for Older People ‘their latest gimmick’ – John Brady TD
Speaking ahead of Budget 2017, Sinn Féin spokesperson for Social Protection John Brady TD has said that Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil need to stop playing games with the proposed €5 pension increase for older people.
The Wicklow TD said:
“While Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil continue this farce over when to give older people the proposed €5 increase in the State Pension they have agreed on one thing – an increase in their own take home pay.
“In the age of ‘new politics’, Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil have seemingly agreed to an increase of over €5,000 in their own wages. At the same time, they continue this tiff over when to give €5 to older people.
“It is quite clear that Fianna Fáil are using this pension increase debacle as a smoke screen.
“Sinn Féin has looked beyond the State Pension in our proposals for older people with a package worth in excess of €410 million.
“Our measures would mean pensioners living alone would see their pension increase by €5.70 per week; this means an increase for 190,000 older people. All older people would benefit by a €1 reduction in prescription charges as the first step to abolishing them, three weeks extension on fuel allowance, a bereavement grant of €600 as well as additional home help hours.
“As Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil continue this farce in the run up to the Budget, while at the same time lining their own pockets, Sinn Féin want to see proposals that will target a range of issues faced by older people.
“Fianna Fáil can drop the pretence that they are in opposition. This new found concern for older people is nothing more than a gimmick. Perhaps if they weren't so busy trying to control both Government and opposition at the same time, they could have released an actual alternative Budget.”
Thursday, 6 October 2016
John Brady TD commends 'Be Well' youth movement in Wicklow
Speaking on the Sinn Féin motion on Mental Health this evening Sinn Féin TD for Wicklow/East Carlow John Brady took the opportunity to commend the Be Well youth movement across County Wicklow.
Teachta Brady said:
“On Monday of this week I attended the launch of ‘Be Well Wicklow’ which originally started out in 2012 as Be Well Bray and has since expanded county wide.
“Be Well Wicklow consists of a group of young people from the age of 13 upwards who have taken on the challenge of promoting positive mental health in their communities.
“Be Well Wicklow is based on three key elements – battling the stigma surrounding youth mental health, learning and sharing skills that build resilience and ensuring that young people’s ideas and opinions are central to everything they do.
“Next week marks the group’s annual Be Well Week across Wicklow with a range of activities and events to raise awareness about Youth Mental Health and promoting positive mental health.
“I want to commend the work these young people have done – their engagement with the issue and their determination year on year to continue the conversation on mental health is something we can all learn a lot from. By taking on the challenge of promoting positive mental health they are inspiring many others throughout the country.
“I also would like to wish the other Be Wellers in Arklow with their first Be Well Week next week, the Be Wellers who are currently setting up in Kilcoole and other groups throughout the county.
Teachta Brady concluded:
“Young people are leading the way on mental health in Wicklow. They are setting the agenda and it is our job to recognise that and do all in our power to support groups such as Be Well Wicklow in the hope that we can have a Be Well movement in every county in the country.
“I am delighted that my party have brought forward this motion this evening and I hope that it will receive cross party support. In the words of Be Well Wicklow “Mental Health is not the same as Mental Illness, Everybody has Mental Health.”
Teachta Brady said:
“On Monday of this week I attended the launch of ‘Be Well Wicklow’ which originally started out in 2012 as Be Well Bray and has since expanded county wide.
“Be Well Wicklow consists of a group of young people from the age of 13 upwards who have taken on the challenge of promoting positive mental health in their communities.
“Be Well Wicklow is based on three key elements – battling the stigma surrounding youth mental health, learning and sharing skills that build resilience and ensuring that young people’s ideas and opinions are central to everything they do.
“Next week marks the group’s annual Be Well Week across Wicklow with a range of activities and events to raise awareness about Youth Mental Health and promoting positive mental health.
“I want to commend the work these young people have done – their engagement with the issue and their determination year on year to continue the conversation on mental health is something we can all learn a lot from. By taking on the challenge of promoting positive mental health they are inspiring many others throughout the country.
“I also would like to wish the other Be Wellers in Arklow with their first Be Well Week next week, the Be Wellers who are currently setting up in Kilcoole and other groups throughout the county.
Teachta Brady concluded:
“Young people are leading the way on mental health in Wicklow. They are setting the agenda and it is our job to recognise that and do all in our power to support groups such as Be Well Wicklow in the hope that we can have a Be Well movement in every county in the country.
“I am delighted that my party have brought forward this motion this evening and I hope that it will receive cross party support. In the words of Be Well Wicklow “Mental Health is not the same as Mental Illness, Everybody has Mental Health.”
Tuesday, 4 October 2016
Sinn Féin's Alternative Budget is about reducing the cost of living & investing public services - John Brady TD
Sinn Féin's Alternative Budget is about reducing the cost of living & investing public services - John Brady TD
Sinn Féin TD for Wicklow/East Carlow John Brady has said that Sinn Féin’s alternative Budget launched today is about reducing the cost of living and investing in public services.
Speaking after the launch Teachta Brady said:
“Sinn Féin’s alternative Budget is about fairness, reducing the cost of living, fair taxation and increased capital investment to build much needed homes, schools and health facilities across the State.
“Year on year other parties have chosen tax breaks for high earners over investment in public services, but Sinn Féin has shown that we cannot fix our health services or our housing crisis if we go down that road.
“Our proposals allocate a fund of €111 million to support families by reducing the cost of childcare fees by an average of €96 per week for children aged between six months and three years.
“We include an investment of an additional €500 million in education to reduce the pupil teacher ratio at primary level, tackle third level fees and create 1,000 additional apprenticeship places.
“Sinn Féin would invest €267 million to provide an additional 500 hospital beds, reduce the prescription charge by €1 as the first step of abolishing it, increase ambulance cover and improve mental health services.
“We want to see older people supported with an additional €410 million for a range of financial supports including restoring the Transitional Pension for 65 year olds increasing their weekly payment by €45 as well as increasing the Living Alone Allowance by €5.70 per week for more than 190,000 pensioners.
“Sinn Féin continues to call on the Government to increase the cut off age for the One Parent Family Payment from seven to twelve years of age. This remains part of our alternative Budget this year.
“Sinn Féin recognises the discriminatory cut made to Jobseekers payments for under 26s, we will restore this to the full amount over two Budgets starting with a €40 increase in this Budget. We remain utterly opposed to those under 26 receiving a lesser payment of between €100 and €160 based on age.
“Budget 2017 needs to create an Ireland for living in, not merely getting by in. We need to invest in the public services that have been so badly eroded by Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil in the past. We need a Budget that leaves no individual, no family or no community behind.”
Sinn Féin TD for Wicklow/East Carlow John Brady has said that Sinn Féin’s alternative Budget launched today is about reducing the cost of living and investing in public services.
Speaking after the launch Teachta Brady said:
“Sinn Féin’s alternative Budget is about fairness, reducing the cost of living, fair taxation and increased capital investment to build much needed homes, schools and health facilities across the State.
“Year on year other parties have chosen tax breaks for high earners over investment in public services, but Sinn Féin has shown that we cannot fix our health services or our housing crisis if we go down that road.
“Our proposals allocate a fund of €111 million to support families by reducing the cost of childcare fees by an average of €96 per week for children aged between six months and three years.
“We include an investment of an additional €500 million in education to reduce the pupil teacher ratio at primary level, tackle third level fees and create 1,000 additional apprenticeship places.
“Sinn Féin would invest €267 million to provide an additional 500 hospital beds, reduce the prescription charge by €1 as the first step of abolishing it, increase ambulance cover and improve mental health services.
“We want to see older people supported with an additional €410 million for a range of financial supports including restoring the Transitional Pension for 65 year olds increasing their weekly payment by €45 as well as increasing the Living Alone Allowance by €5.70 per week for more than 190,000 pensioners.
“Sinn Féin continues to call on the Government to increase the cut off age for the One Parent Family Payment from seven to twelve years of age. This remains part of our alternative Budget this year.
“Sinn Féin recognises the discriminatory cut made to Jobseekers payments for under 26s, we will restore this to the full amount over two Budgets starting with a €40 increase in this Budget. We remain utterly opposed to those under 26 receiving a lesser payment of between €100 and €160 based on age.
“Budget 2017 needs to create an Ireland for living in, not merely getting by in. We need to invest in the public services that have been so badly eroded by Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil in the past. We need a Budget that leaves no individual, no family or no community behind.”
Sinn Féin seek a fairer Ireland for older people – John Brady TD
Sinn Féin seek a fairer Ireland for older people – John Brady TD
Speaking today at the launch of Sinn Féin’s Budget 2017 proposals on Older People, Sinn Féin’s Spokesperson on Social Protection John Brady TD said that “everyone has the right to grow old in Ireland with dignity, security and equality”.
The Wicklow/East Carlow TD said:
“The reality for many of our older citizens under Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil is that they now face additional taxes and charges, they can no longer rely on the health service and they have to struggle daily to heat homes and meet their bills.
“Our proposals launched today provide a Budget for older people worth over €410 million. Our Budget is about fairness and reducing the cost of living for older people. We also include our commitment to abolish water charges and the property tax – putting money back in older people’s pockets.
“Under our proposals, pensioners living alone will see their pension increase by €5.70 per week; this means an increase for 190,000 older people. All other pensioners will see their pension inflation proofed and increased by €3.50.
“Sinn Féin wants an end to prescription charges and will begin by phasing it out by €1 in this Budget.
“Other measures include:
Reinstate the State Pension (Transition) Payment
Increase the Fuel Allowance by 3 Weeks
Introduce a Bereavement Grant of €600
Extend the Warmer Homes Scheme
Increase home help hours by 10%
Increase homecare packages by 10%
“It is absolutely unacceptable that those obliged to retire at 65 years of age are being forced onto Jobseekers payments and cannot access their pension for a year. There are currently more people aged 65 than any other age group in receipt of Jobseekers. We will re-introduce the Transitional Payment immediately impacting on 33,000 pensioners giving them an additional €45 per week or €2,340 per year.
“Sinn Féin’s proposals target a range of issues faced by older people. These proposals seek to create a fairer Ireland for our older people where they are able to live independently, have access to their pension on retirement and are protected from unfair taxes and charges.”
Speaking today at the launch of Sinn Féin’s Budget 2017 proposals on Older People, Sinn Féin’s Spokesperson on Social Protection John Brady TD said that “everyone has the right to grow old in Ireland with dignity, security and equality”.
The Wicklow/East Carlow TD said:
“The reality for many of our older citizens under Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil is that they now face additional taxes and charges, they can no longer rely on the health service and they have to struggle daily to heat homes and meet their bills.
“Our proposals launched today provide a Budget for older people worth over €410 million. Our Budget is about fairness and reducing the cost of living for older people. We also include our commitment to abolish water charges and the property tax – putting money back in older people’s pockets.
“Under our proposals, pensioners living alone will see their pension increase by €5.70 per week; this means an increase for 190,000 older people. All other pensioners will see their pension inflation proofed and increased by €3.50.
“Sinn Féin wants an end to prescription charges and will begin by phasing it out by €1 in this Budget.
“Other measures include:
Reinstate the State Pension (Transition) Payment
Increase the Fuel Allowance by 3 Weeks
Introduce a Bereavement Grant of €600
Extend the Warmer Homes Scheme
Increase home help hours by 10%
Increase homecare packages by 10%
“It is absolutely unacceptable that those obliged to retire at 65 years of age are being forced onto Jobseekers payments and cannot access their pension for a year. There are currently more people aged 65 than any other age group in receipt of Jobseekers. We will re-introduce the Transitional Payment immediately impacting on 33,000 pensioners giving them an additional €45 per week or €2,340 per year.
“Sinn Féin’s proposals target a range of issues faced by older people. These proposals seek to create a fairer Ireland for our older people where they are able to live independently, have access to their pension on retirement and are protected from unfair taxes and charges.”
Sunday, 2 October 2016
Brady congratulates organisers of successful Arklow Enterprise Town event
Wicklow/East Carlow TD John Brady has congratulated the organisers the very successful Arklow Enterprise Town. The event took place in St Marys College, Arklow on Friday September 30th and Saturday October 1st.
Speaking after attending the event Brady said “The Bank of Ireland Arklow Enterprise Town event took place over two days in St Marys College was a huge success and I want to commend all involved.”
“The event was a fantastic opportunity to showcase local businesses, clubs and indeed local schools to potential new customers or new members. Nearly 70 exhibitors participated on each day and there was a massive attendance from the public. The exhibition showcased many of the positive things happening in Arklow and it was good to see some new businesses.”
The Wicklow Sinn Féin TD concluded “I was delighted to talk to so many people at the exhibition; I listened to all they had to say and reiterated my continued determination in working to unlock Arklow’s full potential.”
Speaking after attending the event Brady said “The Bank of Ireland Arklow Enterprise Town event took place over two days in St Marys College was a huge success and I want to commend all involved.”
“The event was a fantastic opportunity to showcase local businesses, clubs and indeed local schools to potential new customers or new members. Nearly 70 exhibitors participated on each day and there was a massive attendance from the public. The exhibition showcased many of the positive things happening in Arklow and it was good to see some new businesses.”
The Wicklow Sinn Féin TD concluded “I was delighted to talk to so many people at the exhibition; I listened to all they had to say and reiterated my continued determination in working to unlock Arklow’s full potential.”
Friday, 30 September 2016
Only one TD in Wicklow votes to abolish water charges – John Brady TD
Only one TD in Wicklow votes to abolish water charges – John Brady TD
Sinn Féin TD for Wicklow/East Carlow John Brady has expressed his disappointment that no other Wicklow TD voted in favour of the immediate abolition of water charges.
Teachta Brady said:
“In the last General election, the people of Wicklow/East Carlow made it clear that they wanted to see the abolition of water charges and not their suspension.
“This week Sinn Féin brought forward a motion to scrap water charges and Irish Water, and not one other Wicklow TD supported this.
“In May, Deputy Donnelly signed his name to the Sinn Féin motion to end water charges and this week he voted against ending water charges. Perhaps, Deputy Donnelly could decide where he stands on the issue of water charges once and for all.
“I am proud to honour my commitment to the people of Wicklow/East Carlow who elected me. I fully intend to represent the wishes of the people of my constituency in abolishing water charges.
“I acknowledge the thousands of people that came out in protest of water charges as an unfair tax and another bill that households simply cannot afford.
“It’s unfortunate that Ministers Harris and Doyle along with Deputy Donnelly and Deputy Casey have failed to listen to the democratic voice of the people. They had an opportunity to end water charges this week and they chose not to.”
Sinn Féin TD for Wicklow/East Carlow John Brady has expressed his disappointment that no other Wicklow TD voted in favour of the immediate abolition of water charges.
Teachta Brady said:
“In the last General election, the people of Wicklow/East Carlow made it clear that they wanted to see the abolition of water charges and not their suspension.
“This week Sinn Féin brought forward a motion to scrap water charges and Irish Water, and not one other Wicklow TD supported this.
“In May, Deputy Donnelly signed his name to the Sinn Féin motion to end water charges and this week he voted against ending water charges. Perhaps, Deputy Donnelly could decide where he stands on the issue of water charges once and for all.
“I am proud to honour my commitment to the people of Wicklow/East Carlow who elected me. I fully intend to represent the wishes of the people of my constituency in abolishing water charges.
“I acknowledge the thousands of people that came out in protest of water charges as an unfair tax and another bill that households simply cannot afford.
“It’s unfortunate that Ministers Harris and Doyle along with Deputy Donnelly and Deputy Casey have failed to listen to the democratic voice of the people. They had an opportunity to end water charges this week and they chose not to.”
Thursday, 29 September 2016
John Brady TD criticises "dishonest" Fianna Fáil on water charges
Sinn Féin TD for Wicklow/East Carlow John Brady launched a scathing attack on Fianna Fáil and their flip-flopping on the issue of water charges during his party’s motion on abolishing water charges this evening.
Teachta Brady highlighted the cause of a constituent who had contacted him in in relation to an ongoing sixteen week wait for a water leak to be fixed by Irish Water.
Speaking this evening Teachta Brady said:
“It took sixteen weeks for Irish Water to investigate one water leak reported to them as far back as June 8th. This certainly was not the case when local authorities had control of water services.
“This leak is causing the loss of two litres of water every minute that equates to over 200,000 litres since this leak was first reported.
“So not only are Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil standing over a utility that is wasting money with huge consultancy fees and the installation of water meters, they are also responsible for wasting water that they were initially allegedly set up to safeguard.
“The only thing that is clear in the Fianna Fáil water charges debacle is that they were dishonest with the electorate for votes in the last election. We only have to read their election manifesto to see this.
Teachta Brady concluded:
“Water charges and Irish Water have been universally discredited and rejected by the electorate.
“It is time to stop wasting water and money and abolish water charges for good.”
Teachta Brady highlighted the cause of a constituent who had contacted him in in relation to an ongoing sixteen week wait for a water leak to be fixed by Irish Water.
Speaking this evening Teachta Brady said:
“It took sixteen weeks for Irish Water to investigate one water leak reported to them as far back as June 8th. This certainly was not the case when local authorities had control of water services.
“This leak is causing the loss of two litres of water every minute that equates to over 200,000 litres since this leak was first reported.
“So not only are Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil standing over a utility that is wasting money with huge consultancy fees and the installation of water meters, they are also responsible for wasting water that they were initially allegedly set up to safeguard.
“The only thing that is clear in the Fianna Fáil water charges debacle is that they were dishonest with the electorate for votes in the last election. We only have to read their election manifesto to see this.
Teachta Brady concluded:
“Water charges and Irish Water have been universally discredited and rejected by the electorate.
“It is time to stop wasting water and money and abolish water charges for good.”
Brady welcomes the World Archery Championships to Wicklow
Wicklow/East Carlow Sinn Féin TD John Brady has welcomed the World Archery Championships to Wicklow and said it’s a welcome boost to tourism and the economy.
Speaking after attending the opening ceremony which took place on Tuesday evening on Bray Seafront Teachta Brady said “I’m delighted to welcome the World Archery Field Championships to Wicklow. It’s a welcome boost to both tourism and the economy. Over 400 athletes and officials have flown in from around the world and will spend the week participating in the championships which are taking place in Kilruddery House and Gardens.”
“I want to commend Archery Ireland who secured the right to host the Championships here. Considerable time, energy and effort has gone into securing the Championships and preparing for the event in Kilruddery which will see over 30 countries represented, and everyone involved must be commended.
Teachta Brady concluded “This event is providing a welcome boost to tourism and the economy, its estimated the event will directly contribute in excess of quarter of a million euro in the local economy, with many Hotels fully booked. I wish the competitors every success and hope they have an enjoyable stay in Wicklow.”
Speaking after attending the opening ceremony which took place on Tuesday evening on Bray Seafront Teachta Brady said “I’m delighted to welcome the World Archery Field Championships to Wicklow. It’s a welcome boost to both tourism and the economy. Over 400 athletes and officials have flown in from around the world and will spend the week participating in the championships which are taking place in Kilruddery House and Gardens.”
“I want to commend Archery Ireland who secured the right to host the Championships here. Considerable time, energy and effort has gone into securing the Championships and preparing for the event in Kilruddery which will see over 30 countries represented, and everyone involved must be commended.
Teachta Brady concluded “This event is providing a welcome boost to tourism and the economy, its estimated the event will directly contribute in excess of quarter of a million euro in the local economy, with many Hotels fully booked. I wish the competitors every success and hope they have an enjoyable stay in Wicklow.”
Wicklow Sinn Féin TD John Brady commends Tidy Town groups
Speaking after the results of the latest Tidy Towns competition were released, Sinn Fein TD for Wicklow East Carlow said that he wished the community spirit promoted by the Tidy Towns Groups could be harnessed, bottled and distributed in the Dáil Chamber.:
“Communities up and down the country pull together and work tirelessly to present their towns and villages as contenders for the prestigious awards associated with the Tidy Towns competition. For those of us who sit in Leinster house tussling with the issues of the day, it might be no harm if we bare in mind the kind of cooperation and community spirit which drives the volunteers to succeed. These volunteers work tirelessly at a task which benefits all residents in the various towns and villages regardless of social, economic or ethnic background. It transcends differences and pulls communities together on a common platform.”
“This year Skerries took the top spot and well done to them however, county Wicklow was certainly not at the back of the line regarding awards. Aughrim took a Gold medal award in the tidiest smallest town category whilst Wicklow Town and Arklow won Bronze Awards. Hollywood, Grange Con and Stratford-On-Slaney did West Wicklow proud by picking up a number of awards. Greystones picked up a Waste Prevention Award. Many other towns and villages across Wicklow also done brilliantly, increasing their points from previous years.”
“A fantastic achievement for all involved in every county around the country and a fine example to all of us of what can be achieved when as a community we work together.”
“Communities up and down the country pull together and work tirelessly to present their towns and villages as contenders for the prestigious awards associated with the Tidy Towns competition. For those of us who sit in Leinster house tussling with the issues of the day, it might be no harm if we bare in mind the kind of cooperation and community spirit which drives the volunteers to succeed. These volunteers work tirelessly at a task which benefits all residents in the various towns and villages regardless of social, economic or ethnic background. It transcends differences and pulls communities together on a common platform.”
“This year Skerries took the top spot and well done to them however, county Wicklow was certainly not at the back of the line regarding awards. Aughrim took a Gold medal award in the tidiest smallest town category whilst Wicklow Town and Arklow won Bronze Awards. Hollywood, Grange Con and Stratford-On-Slaney did West Wicklow proud by picking up a number of awards. Greystones picked up a Waste Prevention Award. Many other towns and villages across Wicklow also done brilliantly, increasing their points from previous years.”
“A fantastic achievement for all involved in every county around the country and a fine example to all of us of what can be achieved when as a community we work together.”
Wednesday, 21 September 2016
Fianna Fáil has no excuse not to back Sinn Féin motion to abolish Irish Water-Brady
Fianna Fáil has “no excuse” not to back a Sinn Féin motion to abolish Irish Water, according to Wicklow/East Carlow TD John Brady.
Sinn Fein’s motion to scrap Irish Water will be introduced when the Dáil returns next week on behalf of the TDs who have signed up to the Right2Water platform. However, Fianna Fáil have stated that they won’t back it, despite indicating at its party think-in this week that it will vote to abolish charges when an expert commission reports back next year.
Teachta Brady said “There is an opportunity to have the issue of water charges put to bed once and for all when the Dáil reconvenes. We have tabled a motion to abolish the charges; this will be debated on September 28th. Let's see then if Micheal Martin and his Fianna Fáil TDs will put their votes where their mouths are.”
“Unfortunately Fianna Fáil have stated they will oppose this motion, which is a ridiculous position. There is no reason for opposing the motion, except that they don’t want to embarrass the Government,” he added.
Teachta Brady concluded “"The reality is that Fianna Fáil's position on water charges is all over the place. Last week they were for abolition, but this week they have publicly stated that they will vote against a motion to abolish the charges. They are trying to ride two horses on this issue and I’m calling on them to do the right thing and vote to abolish the charge once and for all.”
Sinn Fein’s motion to scrap Irish Water will be introduced when the Dáil returns next week on behalf of the TDs who have signed up to the Right2Water platform. However, Fianna Fáil have stated that they won’t back it, despite indicating at its party think-in this week that it will vote to abolish charges when an expert commission reports back next year.
Teachta Brady said “There is an opportunity to have the issue of water charges put to bed once and for all when the Dáil reconvenes. We have tabled a motion to abolish the charges; this will be debated on September 28th. Let's see then if Micheal Martin and his Fianna Fáil TDs will put their votes where their mouths are.”
“Unfortunately Fianna Fáil have stated they will oppose this motion, which is a ridiculous position. There is no reason for opposing the motion, except that they don’t want to embarrass the Government,” he added.
Teachta Brady concluded “"The reality is that Fianna Fáil's position on water charges is all over the place. Last week they were for abolition, but this week they have publicly stated that they will vote against a motion to abolish the charges. They are trying to ride two horses on this issue and I’m calling on them to do the right thing and vote to abolish the charge once and for all.”
Thursday, 15 September 2016
Brady welcomes allocation of funding for essential fire safety work on houses in the Oldcourt Estate in Bray
Wicklow/East Carlow Sinn Féin TD John Brady has welcomed the allocation of €5.3 million in funding for phase 3 of the essential fire safety work in the Oldcourt housing estate in Bray. Teachta Brady who has lead the campaign for the fire safety works in the estate to be carried out has critised the delays in progressing the work and has said that the work needs to be extended to cover all houses in the estate.
Speaking after the funding was secured the Sinn Féin TD said “I welcome the fact that the funding to allow the essential work on the houses in the Oldcourt estate is to be made available .Two phases of work within the estate have seen a large number of houses refurbished and the serious fire safety issues get addressed. However funding dried up a year ago and work in the estate can to a complete stand still. I have raised the issue directly with the Minister directly on a number of occasions in the Dáil. Thankfully the work can commence again in the near future, ensuring that the houses can all be made safe. However the scheme needs to be extended to ensure privately owned houses which were bought from the council in good faith, are also made safe. ”
“The Oldcourt estate was built in the 1970's as a temporary solution to the housing crisis at the time. However the serious problems in the houses started after a botched refurbishment scheme in the estate in the late 1980's. The old flat roof structure was simply built around and the original flat roof was left in the attic space of the refurbished houses. Since the refurbishment there have been 15 serious house fires in the estate which have resulted in the loss of 7 lives. An independent fire safety audit was carried out in 2005. The findings were published in 2007 and this report outlined a substantial number of things that needed to be done in the houses to make them safer.”
Brady went onto say “The work to date in the houses has addressed all of the identified fire safety problems; it also has the added benefit of improving the energy efficiency of the homes. Both the Government and the Council are acutely aware of the damming Fire Safety Report relating to Oldcourt, and they have a duty to the people living in all the houses in the estate that all the houses are brought up to fire safety standard without delay.”
Teachta Brady who is a long time campaigner on the Oldcourt issue concluded “There is another dimension to this, we are in the midst of a housing crisis, and families are lingering on lengthy housing waiting lists for 12 years and more. In Oldcourt the council has 8 boarded up houses that are needed to move families into when the work is been carried out on their home. Therefore, it’s critical that the work is progressed as swiftly as possible so these 8 houses can be permanently allocated to needy families in the area.”
Speaking after the funding was secured the Sinn Féin TD said “I welcome the fact that the funding to allow the essential work on the houses in the Oldcourt estate is to be made available .Two phases of work within the estate have seen a large number of houses refurbished and the serious fire safety issues get addressed. However funding dried up a year ago and work in the estate can to a complete stand still. I have raised the issue directly with the Minister directly on a number of occasions in the Dáil. Thankfully the work can commence again in the near future, ensuring that the houses can all be made safe. However the scheme needs to be extended to ensure privately owned houses which were bought from the council in good faith, are also made safe. ”
“The Oldcourt estate was built in the 1970's as a temporary solution to the housing crisis at the time. However the serious problems in the houses started after a botched refurbishment scheme in the estate in the late 1980's. The old flat roof structure was simply built around and the original flat roof was left in the attic space of the refurbished houses. Since the refurbishment there have been 15 serious house fires in the estate which have resulted in the loss of 7 lives. An independent fire safety audit was carried out in 2005. The findings were published in 2007 and this report outlined a substantial number of things that needed to be done in the houses to make them safer.”
Brady went onto say “The work to date in the houses has addressed all of the identified fire safety problems; it also has the added benefit of improving the energy efficiency of the homes. Both the Government and the Council are acutely aware of the damming Fire Safety Report relating to Oldcourt, and they have a duty to the people living in all the houses in the estate that all the houses are brought up to fire safety standard without delay.”
Teachta Brady who is a long time campaigner on the Oldcourt issue concluded “There is another dimension to this, we are in the midst of a housing crisis, and families are lingering on lengthy housing waiting lists for 12 years and more. In Oldcourt the council has 8 boarded up houses that are needed to move families into when the work is been carried out on their home. Therefore, it’s critical that the work is progressed as swiftly as possible so these 8 houses can be permanently allocated to needy families in the area.”
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