The mayhem that occurred all over Ireland on Halloween night is becoming all too prevalent. It is as though Halloween is an excuse for violence and anti-social behaviour.
Fireworks are legal in Northern Ireland and illegal in the Republic. The Minister for Justice must agree a set of proposals which will synchronise the legislation in both jurisdictions that that large quantities of illegal fireworks are not imported into the Republic.
Secondly it is time to prosecute those business people who do not recycle pellets and tyres according to the law but allow them to be “stolen” by youths for bonfires so that they don’t have to pay the cost of recycling.
Thirdly, it is totally unacceptable that the Emergency Services Personnel become targets for assaults in carrying out their duties to the country. Such behaviour must be severely sanctioned. In this respect parents have a major role to play in ensuring that their children are not involved in late-night anti-social activities at Halloween.
Finally, Dublin City Council and the Gardaí must be complimented on their efforts to provide alternative activities for young people this Halloween. It was very successful with young children. They must redouble their endeavours to provide alternative activities for the older youths.
Tougher penalities needed to protect our architectual heritage
Adjournment Motion
"The need for the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government to take appropriate measures to ensure that Churches that have been deconsecrated are secured and maintained as part of the National heritage and that those who perpetrated the vandalism on the Methodist Church, Jones Road, Dublin 3 are prosecuted and made restore the Church.
The destruction of the old Methodist Church on Jones' Road Dublin 3 was a scandalous act of vandalism. The beautiful old Church was demolished at 6.00 o'clock in the morning on 15th October by a bulldozer. The previous day Dublin City Council had placed an enforcement order on the building last night to prevent the building from being demolished.
Local residents are aghast that such an act of destruction could be perpetuated in their community in the early hours of the morning. It was thought that this type of deliberate vandalism of our architectural heritage had ended long ago.
The Church has been all but destroyed. Dublin City Council have now taken responsibility for securing the building and assure us that they will do their best to ensure that this work takes place without any further destruction or demolition.
But the future of the Church is still uncertain.
The culprits must be pursued through the courts for this wanton and illegal act of vandalism. The maximum possible penalties should be imposed in this case and part of the sanction should be to require the guilty party to reconstruct the Church brick by brick.
There are a number of deconsecrated churches throughout the City in prime locations. Greedy developers should not be allowed acquire these properties at knockdown prices and to demolish the churches with no regard to the planning laws. The Planning Laws are completely inadequate to deal with such cases as the maximum fine in the District Court is €1,904.
In 2006 a developer illegally demolished the Presentation Convent on Terenure Road West. Despite being ordered to reinstate this building the developer failed to do so. They were eventually taken to court where they were fined only €1,000 for a site which they had paid over €15 million. When the penalties for demolition are this minuscule it is no wonder that the owner of the Methodist Church site had no hesitation in ordering its demolition despite having no approval to do so.
The Church on Jones Road was not on the record of protected structures and Dublin City Council must account why this is the case when clearly the building is of significant architectural value. Local Authorities can refuse permission where the developer is not in compliance with a planning permission. This penalty needs to be tightened up and made much more secure so that local authorities can refuse planning permission where a developer has been convicted or received an injunction for any breach of planning legislation.
The Minister must ensure that Local Authorities conduct an audit of all such churches with a view to listing them on the Record of Protected Structures. The Minister also needs to give a commitment that the law will deal with those who flout the law and ensure that the penalties are a real deterrence to developers taking the law into their own hands.
"The need for the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government to take appropriate measures to ensure that Churches that have been deconsecrated are secured and maintained as part of the National heritage and that those who perpetrated the vandalism on the Methodist Church, Jones Road, Dublin 3 are prosecuted and made restore the Church.
The destruction of the old Methodist Church on Jones' Road Dublin 3 was a scandalous act of vandalism. The beautiful old Church was demolished at 6.00 o'clock in the morning on 15th October by a bulldozer. The previous day Dublin City Council had placed an enforcement order on the building last night to prevent the building from being demolished.
Local residents are aghast that such an act of destruction could be perpetuated in their community in the early hours of the morning. It was thought that this type of deliberate vandalism of our architectural heritage had ended long ago.
The Church has been all but destroyed. Dublin City Council have now taken responsibility for securing the building and assure us that they will do their best to ensure that this work takes place without any further destruction or demolition.
But the future of the Church is still uncertain.
The culprits must be pursued through the courts for this wanton and illegal act of vandalism. The maximum possible penalties should be imposed in this case and part of the sanction should be to require the guilty party to reconstruct the Church brick by brick.
There are a number of deconsecrated churches throughout the City in prime locations. Greedy developers should not be allowed acquire these properties at knockdown prices and to demolish the churches with no regard to the planning laws. The Planning Laws are completely inadequate to deal with such cases as the maximum fine in the District Court is €1,904.
In 2006 a developer illegally demolished the Presentation Convent on Terenure Road West. Despite being ordered to reinstate this building the developer failed to do so. They were eventually taken to court where they were fined only €1,000 for a site which they had paid over €15 million. When the penalties for demolition are this minuscule it is no wonder that the owner of the Methodist Church site had no hesitation in ordering its demolition despite having no approval to do so.
The Church on Jones Road was not on the record of protected structures and Dublin City Council must account why this is the case when clearly the building is of significant architectural value. Local Authorities can refuse permission where the developer is not in compliance with a planning permission. This penalty needs to be tightened up and made much more secure so that local authorities can refuse planning permission where a developer has been convicted or received an injunction for any breach of planning legislation.
The Minister must ensure that Local Authorities conduct an audit of all such churches with a view to listing them on the Record of Protected Structures. The Minister also needs to give a commitment that the law will deal with those who flout the law and ensure that the penalties are a real deterrence to developers taking the law into their own hands.
Europe Day
Joe Costello, Labour Spokesperson on European Affairs, pictured with Proinsias de Rossa MEP, Cllr Emer Costello, Mick Keegan, Labour Candidate for Cabra Glasnevin, and Labour Party suporters, canvassing on Grafon Street for Europe Day, Friday 9th May, 2008.
Friday, 9th May was Europe Day (more information on Europe Day here) and as part of our campaign for a yes vote in the forthcoming Lisbon Reform Treaty members of the Labour Party went leafletting on Dublin's Grafton Street.
From now until the campaign Labour will be leafletting on Henry Street and Grafton Street every Saturday as well as in other venues throughout the country.
More photographs from today can be viewed on Flickr at this link.
Friday, 9th May was Europe Day (more information on Europe Day here) and as part of our campaign for a yes vote in the forthcoming Lisbon Reform Treaty members of the Labour Party went leafletting on Dublin's Grafton Street.From now until the campaign Labour will be leafletting on Henry Street and Grafton Street every Saturday as well as in other venues throughout the country.
More photographs from today can be viewed on Flickr at this link.
EU helped bring peace and harmony to Ireland
Speaking at the European Affairs public meeting on Friday 9th May in the Radisson Hotel, Athlone, Deputy Joe Costello said that the 9th May marked Europe Day. It is particularly important to acknowledge the founding fathers of the European Project and to remember the benefits that had been bestowed on so many countries in Europe through the membership of the European Union. Ireland has been one of the greatest beneficiaries of the EU", he said.
In 1972 when Ireland joined the EU Irish GDP was 58% of the EU average; today it is 130%. In 1972 Ireland exported her youth to the four corners of the globe.; today the youth of the world come to our shores.
In 1972 Ireland had a single market, the United Kingdom, which paid rock-bottom monopoly prices for our agriculture; today we have another single market, the European Union of 500 million customers which pays competitive prices for the 90% of our produce which we export annually. In 1972 foreign direct investment scarcely existed in Ireland. Now with our low corporate tax, our access to the world's largest single market the EU and our high tech graduates educated with EU money, we receive more foreign investment from the US than India and China combined.
The EU helped bring peace and prosperity to Ireland and to Europe in recent times. These are significant achievements and should be celebrated today, Europe Day.
In 1972 when Ireland joined the EU Irish GDP was 58% of the EU average; today it is 130%. In 1972 Ireland exported her youth to the four corners of the globe.; today the youth of the world come to our shores.
In 1972 Ireland had a single market, the United Kingdom, which paid rock-bottom monopoly prices for our agriculture; today we have another single market, the European Union of 500 million customers which pays competitive prices for the 90% of our produce which we export annually. In 1972 foreign direct investment scarcely existed in Ireland. Now with our low corporate tax, our access to the world's largest single market the EU and our high tech graduates educated with EU money, we receive more foreign investment from the US than India and China combined.
The EU helped bring peace and prosperity to Ireland and to Europe in recent times. These are significant achievements and should be celebrated today, Europe Day.
The EU Reform Treaty - Your Questions Answered
Why does Europe need the Treaty of Lisbon?
The European Union of 27 members is operating with rules designed for an EU of 15. It needs to modernise and update its working arrangements to allow it work more efficiently and also more democratically. It makes sense to update the way in which it works.
What are the main institutional changes introduced by the Treaty?
a)European Parliament
Areas of co-decision with the European Council have been expanded giving parliaments increased legislative voting rights. It will have a key role in the approval of budget. It also has the powers to elect the president of the Commission on the Council proposal
b)European Commission
From 2014 membership of the Commission will be reduced to two thirds of the number of member states. Rotation will be on the basis of strict equality between the Member States irrespective of size. A new position, Vice President of the Commission and High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, will be created.
c)European Council
There is a new office of President elected for a renewable term of two and a half years to chair and drive forward the Council’s work. The President will not have decision-making powers, but will coordinate the work of the European Council and chair its meetings.
d)Voting Procedures for Qualified Majority Voting (QMV)
There is a new double majority voting system. It requires 55% of Member States and 65% of population. This will apply from 2014. This means that only those measures that genuinely command majority support can be adopted at EU level.
How will national parliaments have a greater say in European affairs?
National Parliaments have been given special recognition in the treaty. National parliaments will have the power to have a say at a very early stage, before a proposal is considered in detail by the European Parliament and the Council of Ministers. If enough national parliaments object to a proposal, it can either be amended or withdrawn.
What is the Charter of Fundamental Rights and how will the it improve the rights of European citizens?
The Charter of Fundamental Rights will be legally binding on Member States if the Treaty is ratified.The comprehensive list of rights in the Charter fall under the headings of dignity, freedom equality, solidarity, citizens’ rights, including workers’ rights, and justice. It is probably the most extensive and succinct statement of human rights and citizens' entitlements ever to be given legal form.
How does the Treaty advance the cause of “Social Europe”
The Treaty of Lisbon contains a “social clause” whereby the social issues (promotion of a high level of employment, adequate social protection, fight against social exclusion, etc) must be taken into account when defining and implementing all policies. The Treaty makes legal provision for social dialogue and recognition of the social partners. The Charter of Fundamental Rights also contains a section on solidarity.
How does the Treaty address environmental issues such as climate change?
The Treaty of Lisbon states that one of the Union’s objectives is to work for the sustainable development of Europe based, in particular, on a high level of protection and improvement of the quality of the environment. This will ensure the proper functioning of the energy market, in particular energy supply and the promotion of energy efficiency and energy saving, and the development of new and renewable forms of energy.
What will the Treaty do for countries needing development or humanitarian aid?
The Treaty of Lisbon introduces for the first time a specific legal basis for humanitarian aid. The Treaty clearly states that the reduction and the eradication of poverty is the primary objective of the Union’s development cooperation policy. This goal must be respected when the Union implements policies likely to affect developing countries. This implies also that development policy is a policy in its own right, and not an accessory of common foreign and security policy.
Does the Treaty weaken Member States' ability to have an independent foreign policy?
No. The post of High Representative does not create new powers but streamlines EU external action avoiding duplication and confusion. He or she will act in foreign policy matters on the basis of decisions taken unanimously by the EU 27. He or she will complement not replace the foreign policy or diplomatic efforts of Member States.
Will the Treaty create a European army?
No. Military capabilities remain in national hands. The Treaty foresees that Member States can make available civilian and military resources to the Union for the implementation of its Common Security and Defence operations. However, any Member State has the right to oppose such operations and all contributions to them will be always on a voluntary basis. A group of Member States who are willing and have the necessary capability will be able to undertake humanitarian and rescue tasks, military advice and peace-keeping tasks. No Member State can be forced to participate in such operations.
Does the Treaty involve giving up national vetoes in many areas?
The Treaty does not involve changes in areas of sensitivity to Ireland such as taxation and defence. Unanimity is preserved for all decisions in these areas. This means that all Member States must agree to any new proposals in these areas.
What are the new policy areas covered by Qualified by Majority Voting
(QMV)There will be an increase in the number of areas in which decisions can be taken by Qualified Majority Voting (QMV). Most of these are of a technical character or relate to areas where the union has only limited competence e.g. administrative cooperation; internal EU financial regulations; humanitarian aid operations.
How and when the Treaty of Lisbon will enter into force?
To come into force, the Treaty of Lisbon has to be ratified by all twenty-seven Member States. It is hoped that the Treaty will come into force by 1 January 2009, to allow its provisions to apply before the European Parliament elections in June 2009.
The European Union of 27 members is operating with rules designed for an EU of 15. It needs to modernise and update its working arrangements to allow it work more efficiently and also more democratically. It makes sense to update the way in which it works.
What are the main institutional changes introduced by the Treaty?
a)European Parliament
Areas of co-decision with the European Council have been expanded giving parliaments increased legislative voting rights. It will have a key role in the approval of budget. It also has the powers to elect the president of the Commission on the Council proposal
b)European Commission
From 2014 membership of the Commission will be reduced to two thirds of the number of member states. Rotation will be on the basis of strict equality between the Member States irrespective of size. A new position, Vice President of the Commission and High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, will be created.
c)European Council
There is a new office of President elected for a renewable term of two and a half years to chair and drive forward the Council’s work. The President will not have decision-making powers, but will coordinate the work of the European Council and chair its meetings.
d)Voting Procedures for Qualified Majority Voting (QMV)
There is a new double majority voting system. It requires 55% of Member States and 65% of population. This will apply from 2014. This means that only those measures that genuinely command majority support can be adopted at EU level.
How will national parliaments have a greater say in European affairs?
National Parliaments have been given special recognition in the treaty. National parliaments will have the power to have a say at a very early stage, before a proposal is considered in detail by the European Parliament and the Council of Ministers. If enough national parliaments object to a proposal, it can either be amended or withdrawn.
What is the Charter of Fundamental Rights and how will the it improve the rights of European citizens?
The Charter of Fundamental Rights will be legally binding on Member States if the Treaty is ratified.The comprehensive list of rights in the Charter fall under the headings of dignity, freedom equality, solidarity, citizens’ rights, including workers’ rights, and justice. It is probably the most extensive and succinct statement of human rights and citizens' entitlements ever to be given legal form.
How does the Treaty advance the cause of “Social Europe”
The Treaty of Lisbon contains a “social clause” whereby the social issues (promotion of a high level of employment, adequate social protection, fight against social exclusion, etc) must be taken into account when defining and implementing all policies. The Treaty makes legal provision for social dialogue and recognition of the social partners. The Charter of Fundamental Rights also contains a section on solidarity.
How does the Treaty address environmental issues such as climate change?
The Treaty of Lisbon states that one of the Union’s objectives is to work for the sustainable development of Europe based, in particular, on a high level of protection and improvement of the quality of the environment. This will ensure the proper functioning of the energy market, in particular energy supply and the promotion of energy efficiency and energy saving, and the development of new and renewable forms of energy.
What will the Treaty do for countries needing development or humanitarian aid?
The Treaty of Lisbon introduces for the first time a specific legal basis for humanitarian aid. The Treaty clearly states that the reduction and the eradication of poverty is the primary objective of the Union’s development cooperation policy. This goal must be respected when the Union implements policies likely to affect developing countries. This implies also that development policy is a policy in its own right, and not an accessory of common foreign and security policy.
Does the Treaty weaken Member States' ability to have an independent foreign policy?
No. The post of High Representative does not create new powers but streamlines EU external action avoiding duplication and confusion. He or she will act in foreign policy matters on the basis of decisions taken unanimously by the EU 27. He or she will complement not replace the foreign policy or diplomatic efforts of Member States.
Will the Treaty create a European army?
No. Military capabilities remain in national hands. The Treaty foresees that Member States can make available civilian and military resources to the Union for the implementation of its Common Security and Defence operations. However, any Member State has the right to oppose such operations and all contributions to them will be always on a voluntary basis. A group of Member States who are willing and have the necessary capability will be able to undertake humanitarian and rescue tasks, military advice and peace-keeping tasks. No Member State can be forced to participate in such operations.
Does the Treaty involve giving up national vetoes in many areas?
The Treaty does not involve changes in areas of sensitivity to Ireland such as taxation and defence. Unanimity is preserved for all decisions in these areas. This means that all Member States must agree to any new proposals in these areas.
What are the new policy areas covered by Qualified by Majority Voting
(QMV)There will be an increase in the number of areas in which decisions can be taken by Qualified Majority Voting (QMV). Most of these are of a technical character or relate to areas where the union has only limited competence e.g. administrative cooperation; internal EU financial regulations; humanitarian aid operations.
How and when the Treaty of Lisbon will enter into force?
To come into force, the Treaty of Lisbon has to be ratified by all twenty-seven Member States. It is hoped that the Treaty will come into force by 1 January 2009, to allow its provisions to apply before the European Parliament elections in June 2009.
Letter to Irish Times - 5 May 2008
Re: Gerry Adams Presentation to the Natonal Forum on Europe
Dear Madam
Your report of Gerry Adams' speech at the National Forum on Europe records Mr Adams making some remarkable claims about the Lisbon Reform Treaty (Irish Times, 3/5/08).
Probably the most extraordinary and most inaccurate claim was his statement that the Treaty will "deepen the existing democratic deficit".
The main thrust of the Treaty is to inject democracy into the EU institutions. The Council of Ministers must henceforth conduct their business in public; the directly elected European Parliament gets greater legislative and budgetary powers; all Member States irrespective of their size will have equal representation in an independent Commission; National Parliaments are given an important new role in the formation of EU legislation; a new Citizens? Initiative will enable citizens of the Member States to have issues of major concern placed on the EU Agenda.
These new powers deepen democracy.
Secondly, the Lisbon Reform Treaty restates the democratic values and principles of the earlier Treaties as follows: " The Union is founded on the values of respect for human dignity, freedom, democracy, equality, the rule of law and respect for human rights, including the rights of persons belonging to minorities. These values are common to the Member States in a society in which pluralism, non discrimination, tolerance, justice, solidarity and equality between women and men prevail". (Article 1)
Thirdly, the Charter of Fundamental Rights becomes an integral part of the EU Treaties for the first time. The Charter gives legal strength to a whole series of democratic rights under the headings of Dignity, Freedoms, Equality, Solidarity, Citizens' Rights and Justice.
Clearly, the Lisbon Reform Treaty does not in any way deepen the democratic deficit. On the contrary it deepens democracy and strengthens the rights of the citizens of the Member States of the European Union.
Yours sincerely
Joe Costello TD
Labour Party Spokesperson on Europe
Dear Madam
Your report of Gerry Adams' speech at the National Forum on Europe records Mr Adams making some remarkable claims about the Lisbon Reform Treaty (Irish Times, 3/5/08).
Probably the most extraordinary and most inaccurate claim was his statement that the Treaty will "deepen the existing democratic deficit".
The main thrust of the Treaty is to inject democracy into the EU institutions. The Council of Ministers must henceforth conduct their business in public; the directly elected European Parliament gets greater legislative and budgetary powers; all Member States irrespective of their size will have equal representation in an independent Commission; National Parliaments are given an important new role in the formation of EU legislation; a new Citizens? Initiative will enable citizens of the Member States to have issues of major concern placed on the EU Agenda.
These new powers deepen democracy.
Secondly, the Lisbon Reform Treaty restates the democratic values and principles of the earlier Treaties as follows: " The Union is founded on the values of respect for human dignity, freedom, democracy, equality, the rule of law and respect for human rights, including the rights of persons belonging to minorities. These values are common to the Member States in a society in which pluralism, non discrimination, tolerance, justice, solidarity and equality between women and men prevail". (Article 1)
Thirdly, the Charter of Fundamental Rights becomes an integral part of the EU Treaties for the first time. The Charter gives legal strength to a whole series of democratic rights under the headings of Dignity, Freedoms, Equality, Solidarity, Citizens' Rights and Justice.
Clearly, the Lisbon Reform Treaty does not in any way deepen the democratic deficit. On the contrary it deepens democracy and strengthens the rights of the citizens of the Member States of the European Union.
Yours sincerely
Joe Costello TD
Labour Party Spokesperson on Europe
Sell Europe in 60 seconds video competition
As part of our Yes to Lisbon Treaty campaign we have announced details of our 'Sell Europe in 60 seconds' video competition. Open to students in second and third-level educational institutions the applicants will craft a 60-second video which will engage the Irish public in support of the Lisbon Reform Treaty.
We are offering a €1,000 prize for the best one-minute video promoting a yes vote in the forthcoming referendum on the Lisbon Treaty.
If you have an idea but have never made a video before you can find useful informationon You Tube and lots of details about the Lisbon Treaty on our blog.
Please submit your entry to campaigns@labour.ie in .WMV, .AVI, .MOV and .MPG formats (any format that is compatible for You Tube). The deadline for entries is June 1st.
We are offering a €1,000 prize for the best one-minute video promoting a yes vote in the forthcoming referendum on the Lisbon Treaty.
If you have an idea but have never made a video before you can find useful informationon You Tube and lots of details about the Lisbon Treaty on our blog.
Please submit your entry to campaigns@labour.ie in .WMV, .AVI, .MOV and .MPG formats (any format that is compatible for You Tube). The deadline for entries is June 1st.
Lisbon Delivers on Social Agenda
The Labour Party's support for the Lisbon Reform Treaty is based on the substantial achievements for Irish citizens over the last 35 years of Irish membership together with the strong social agenda, including the Charter for Fundamental Rights, which is evident in the present Treaty, according to Labour TD, Joe Costello.
He was speaking today at the Conference on 'Party Politics and the EU on the island of Ireland' in the Institute of European Affairs.
Deputy Costello said: "Since 1973 Ireland has become a prosperous, equal and respected member of a European Union of 27 Member States. We have progressed significantly through our association with the European Union over the last 35 years.
"The old Irish proverb 'Ni Neart go cur le cheile' is absolutely true. It is difficult to conclude that more has been achieved towards implementing the aims and ideals of the 1916 Proclamation and the 1919 Democratic Programme through Ireland's 35-year association with Europe than had been achieved in the previous 50 years of isolated national independence.
"The founding fathers of the Labour Party, James Connolly and James Larkin were internationalists. They believed that the progressive way forward was to build solidarity and equality between neighbouring countries and fellow workers in those countries.
"Neither they at the beginning of the 20th century, nor the Labour Party at the beginning of the 21st century would have ever supported the narrow concept of sovereignty which isolated and suffocated Ireland for 50 years after the foundation of the state and which consigned our people to poverty, emigration and the tyranny of monopoly British capitalism until the European Union provided the vehicle for economic freedom.
"The Lisbon Treaty restates the values enshrined in the existing Treaties and gives legal basis to a Charter of Fundamental Rights for the citizens of the Member States.
"The Lisbon Reform Treaty is good for the people of Ireland and deserving of our support."
He was speaking today at the Conference on 'Party Politics and the EU on the island of Ireland' in the Institute of European Affairs.
Deputy Costello said: "Since 1973 Ireland has become a prosperous, equal and respected member of a European Union of 27 Member States. We have progressed significantly through our association with the European Union over the last 35 years.
"The old Irish proverb 'Ni Neart go cur le cheile' is absolutely true. It is difficult to conclude that more has been achieved towards implementing the aims and ideals of the 1916 Proclamation and the 1919 Democratic Programme through Ireland's 35-year association with Europe than had been achieved in the previous 50 years of isolated national independence.
"The founding fathers of the Labour Party, James Connolly and James Larkin were internationalists. They believed that the progressive way forward was to build solidarity and equality between neighbouring countries and fellow workers in those countries.
"Neither they at the beginning of the 20th century, nor the Labour Party at the beginning of the 21st century would have ever supported the narrow concept of sovereignty which isolated and suffocated Ireland for 50 years after the foundation of the state and which consigned our people to poverty, emigration and the tyranny of monopoly British capitalism until the European Union provided the vehicle for economic freedom.
"The Lisbon Treaty restates the values enshrined in the existing Treaties and gives legal basis to a Charter of Fundamental Rights for the citizens of the Member States.
"The Lisbon Reform Treaty is good for the people of Ireland and deserving of our support."
Lisbon Reform Treaty is a Citizen's Treaty
Speaking at a Public Meeting on the Lisbon Reform Treaty, Deputy Joe Costello said that the values and vision of the founding fathers, Robert Schumann and Jean Monnet fifty years ago, were central to this present reform of the European Union.
Deputy Costello said: "The Lisbon Reform Treaty is, in effect, a Citizen's Treaty. The first three articles of the Lisbon Reform Treaty are a restatement and enhancement of the original statement of values in the Treaty of Rome in 1957.
"Article 1 sets down the values pertaining in the EU to its citizens. It states that: "the EU is founded on the values of respect for human dignity, freedom, democracy, equality, the rule of law and respect for human rights including the rights of persons belonging to minorities. These values are common to the Member States in a society in which pluralism, non discrimination, tolerance, solidarity and equality between men and women prevail".
"Article 3 sets down the values which will apply to the EU in its relationship with the rest of the world.
"Article 3 states: 'In its relations with the wider world, the European Union shall uphold and promote its values and interests and contribute to the protection of its citizens. It shall contribute to peace, security, the sustainable development of the earth, solidarity and natural respect among peoples, free and fair trade, eradication of poverty and the protection of human rights, in particular the rights of the child as well as the strict observance and the development of international law, including respect for the principles of the United Nations Charter'.
"These two statements of values constitute a magnificent foundation for the continued building of a European Union of equal Member States and for determining that Union's benevolent and principled relationship with the rest of the world.
"The Charter of Fundamental Rights then takes those values, draws them out and applies them to the daily life of the Citizens of the Member States. The Charter will be legally binding on EU institutions and on EU laws once the Lisbon Reform Treaty is ratified and will be actionable in the European Court of Justice.
"Thus the Lisbon Reform Treaty more than any of the other five Treaties guarantees specifically the rights of the citizens of the Member States of the European Union.
"The Lisbon Reform Treaty is a Citizens Treaty."
Deputy Costello said: "The Lisbon Reform Treaty is, in effect, a Citizen's Treaty. The first three articles of the Lisbon Reform Treaty are a restatement and enhancement of the original statement of values in the Treaty of Rome in 1957.
"Article 1 sets down the values pertaining in the EU to its citizens. It states that: "the EU is founded on the values of respect for human dignity, freedom, democracy, equality, the rule of law and respect for human rights including the rights of persons belonging to minorities. These values are common to the Member States in a society in which pluralism, non discrimination, tolerance, solidarity and equality between men and women prevail".
"Article 3 sets down the values which will apply to the EU in its relationship with the rest of the world.
"Article 3 states: 'In its relations with the wider world, the European Union shall uphold and promote its values and interests and contribute to the protection of its citizens. It shall contribute to peace, security, the sustainable development of the earth, solidarity and natural respect among peoples, free and fair trade, eradication of poverty and the protection of human rights, in particular the rights of the child as well as the strict observance and the development of international law, including respect for the principles of the United Nations Charter'.
"These two statements of values constitute a magnificent foundation for the continued building of a European Union of equal Member States and for determining that Union's benevolent and principled relationship with the rest of the world.
"The Charter of Fundamental Rights then takes those values, draws them out and applies them to the daily life of the Citizens of the Member States. The Charter will be legally binding on EU institutions and on EU laws once the Lisbon Reform Treaty is ratified and will be actionable in the European Court of Justice.
"Thus the Lisbon Reform Treaty more than any of the other five Treaties guarantees specifically the rights of the citizens of the Member States of the European Union.
"The Lisbon Reform Treaty is a Citizens Treaty."
Public Forum on Charter of Fundamental Rights
14th February 2008 (St Valentine's Day) we held a public forum on the Labour Party's position on the Lisbon Reform Treaty and the Charter of Fundamental Rights.
The Labour leader Eamon Gilmore TD addressed the forum he pointed out the Charter of Fundamental Rights is the big idea in the Lisbon Reform Treaty. Eamon outlined its contents and its origins. It dealt with traditional, civil and political rights but also included the full gamut of social, economic, administrative and cultural rights. These are dealt with in the Charter under seven headings, human dignity, freedoms, equality, solidarity, citizen rights, justice and general provisions.
I strongly believe that the Charter provides roadmap for citizen's rights in the EU
16 Moore Street - State Action Needed to Deliver Promised Museum and Visitor Centre
On Thursday 14 February I moved a motion on the Adjournment Debate on "The Need for the Minister for the Environment to outline his proposals for conserving 14-17 Moore Street and developing No 16 as a National Monument"
I firmly believe that the State has a duty to ensure that the building is conserved and developed by the State as a museum and visitor centre. This is a stated objective of the Dublin City Development Plan 2005 - 2011. However, the state authorities seem reluctant to honour these commitments and are leaving its fate to private developers. I believe that the State has a responsibility to ensure that the vision for the Moore Street Buildings is delivered in full.
Therefore, I raised the issue on the adjournment to highlight my concern.
Briefing on Charter of Fundamental Rights
On 14th February 2008 (St Valentine's Day) we held a public forum on the Labour Party's position on the Lisbon Reform Treaty and the Charter of Fundamental Rights.
The Labour leader Eamon Gilmore TD addressed the forum he pointed out the Charter of Fundamental Rights is the big idea in the Lisbon Reform Treaty. Eamon outlined its contents and its origins. It dealt with traditional, civil and political rights but also included the full gamut of social, economic, administrative and cultural rights. These are dealt with in the Charter under seven headings, human dignity, freedoms, equality, solidarity, citizen rights, justice and general provisions.Yesterday we held a public forum in the European Parliament in Dublin on the European Charter of Fundamental Rights.
I strongly believe that the Charter provides roadmap for citizen's rights in the EU
Local Area Plan for Phibsborough
Dublin City Council has now commenced the process of drawing up the Local Area Plan for Phibsborough in consultation with local stakeholders.
Initial submissions have been invited from the public and I am pleased to inform you that the deadline for submissions has been extended to 1st May 2007. This will be the first in a series of public consultations on the plan before it can be finalised (see overleaf)
The objective of the Local Area Plan is to develop a plan for the future development of the area that encompasses the needs of all local stakeholders and ensures an integrated approach to planning, transport, conservation, and the delivery of services in the area.
Issues that may be addressed in a Local Area Plan include:
Urban design and development standards, including height, density, scale, design; Public open space and public realm including amenities such as the Royal Canal the Blessington Basin, Mount Bernard Park, and also Dalymount Park
Transportation and Mobility, including proposals for new public transport such as Metro North, Luas to Broadstone, traffic systems etc.
Conservation and the built heritage, including the redevelopment of Mountjoy Prison, Mater Hospital, St Peter’s Church
Community Infrastrucutre, including the development of community and leisure facilities for all, young and old alike.
At my request Cllr Emer Costello and Cllr Brendan Carr put forward the following motion to the Central Area Committee last Tuesday:
“That Dublin City Council agrees to make the services of a Town Planner available to the residents of the Phibsborough and surrounding area to enable them to make a comprehensive and professional submission on the Phibsborough Local Area Plan
Secondly that Dublin City Council put the Local Are Plan proposals on public display in prominent locations such as Phibsborough Public Library, hold a public information open day for residents and keep residents informed of developments by regular bulletin.”
The motion was adopted unanimously. The Manager has agreed to make planners from the Planning Information Service available to assist residents wishing to make a submission
If you wish to participate in the meetings with the Planning Information Service or require advice in making a submission, please contact me at my advice centre at my Constituency Office, 334 North Circular Road, Phibsborough, Dublin 7 Saturdays from 12.30 to 1.30 or contact me at the above telephone number / email address.
Summary of the Local Area Plan Process
1. Pre-Draft Consultation
Prior to preparing the Draft Local Area Plan, the local authority consults with the public including resident associations, business interest and other stakeholders in the area.
2. Preparation of Draft Plan
The City Council then prepares the Draft Local Area Plan taking into account the issues raised during the pre draft consultation phase.
3. Public Notice and Plan Display
An advertisement is placed in one of the national newspapers announcing the preparation of a Local Area Plan. Notice and a copy of the Draft Local Area Plan is also sent to the “prescribed bodies” including government agencies. The Draft Plan goes on display for a minimum period of 6 weeks during which submissions and observations are invited from the public and interested parties.
4. Preparation of Manager's Report on submissions/observations
A report summarising the issues raised in the submissions and the manager's recommendation is presented to the elected members of the City Council not later than 12 weeks after publication of the notice in the national newspaper. The elected members have 6 weeks to consider the report and adopt, amend, or reject the plan
5. Display of Proposed Amendments
Any material amendment to the plan must go on display for a period of not less than 4 weeks.
6. Preparation of Manager's Report on Submissions on Proposed Amendments
A manager's report summarising the issues raised in the submissions and the recommendation of the manager is presented to the elected members of the County Council not later than 8 weeks after publication of the notice in the national newspaper. The elected members have a maximum of 6 weeks to consider the report and adopt, amend, or reject the plan.
Initial submissions have been invited from the public and I am pleased to inform you that the deadline for submissions has been extended to 1st May 2007. This will be the first in a series of public consultations on the plan before it can be finalised (see overleaf)
The objective of the Local Area Plan is to develop a plan for the future development of the area that encompasses the needs of all local stakeholders and ensures an integrated approach to planning, transport, conservation, and the delivery of services in the area.
Issues that may be addressed in a Local Area Plan include:
Urban design and development standards, including height, density, scale, design; Public open space and public realm including amenities such as the Royal Canal the Blessington Basin, Mount Bernard Park, and also Dalymount Park
Transportation and Mobility, including proposals for new public transport such as Metro North, Luas to Broadstone, traffic systems etc.
Conservation and the built heritage, including the redevelopment of Mountjoy Prison, Mater Hospital, St Peter’s Church
Community Infrastrucutre, including the development of community and leisure facilities for all, young and old alike.
At my request Cllr Emer Costello and Cllr Brendan Carr put forward the following motion to the Central Area Committee last Tuesday:
“That Dublin City Council agrees to make the services of a Town Planner available to the residents of the Phibsborough and surrounding area to enable them to make a comprehensive and professional submission on the Phibsborough Local Area Plan
Secondly that Dublin City Council put the Local Are Plan proposals on public display in prominent locations such as Phibsborough Public Library, hold a public information open day for residents and keep residents informed of developments by regular bulletin.”
The motion was adopted unanimously. The Manager has agreed to make planners from the Planning Information Service available to assist residents wishing to make a submission
If you wish to participate in the meetings with the Planning Information Service or require advice in making a submission, please contact me at my advice centre at my Constituency Office, 334 North Circular Road, Phibsborough, Dublin 7 Saturdays from 12.30 to 1.30 or contact me at the above telephone number / email address.
Summary of the Local Area Plan Process
1. Pre-Draft Consultation
Prior to preparing the Draft Local Area Plan, the local authority consults with the public including resident associations, business interest and other stakeholders in the area.
2. Preparation of Draft Plan
The City Council then prepares the Draft Local Area Plan taking into account the issues raised during the pre draft consultation phase.
3. Public Notice and Plan Display
An advertisement is placed in one of the national newspapers announcing the preparation of a Local Area Plan. Notice and a copy of the Draft Local Area Plan is also sent to the “prescribed bodies” including government agencies. The Draft Plan goes on display for a minimum period of 6 weeks during which submissions and observations are invited from the public and interested parties.
4. Preparation of Manager's Report on submissions/observations
A report summarising the issues raised in the submissions and the manager's recommendation is presented to the elected members of the City Council not later than 12 weeks after publication of the notice in the national newspaper. The elected members have 6 weeks to consider the report and adopt, amend, or reject the plan
5. Display of Proposed Amendments
Any material amendment to the plan must go on display for a period of not less than 4 weeks.
6. Preparation of Manager's Report on Submissions on Proposed Amendments
A manager's report summarising the issues raised in the submissions and the recommendation of the manager is presented to the elected members of the County Council not later than 8 weeks after publication of the notice in the national newspaper. The elected members have a maximum of 6 weeks to consider the report and adopt, amend, or reject the plan.
Summerhill Senior Citizens Calendar Girls & Boys!
Congratulations to the Summerhill Senior Citizens who recently launched a 2007 calendar, featuring their award winning flower beds. Summerhill Senior Citizens have won their category every year since first entering the Tidy Districts competition in 2003 and won the overall prize for Dublin in 2004. I was honoured to be invited to launch the calendar at a small reception in Summerhill Court. The calendar has a photograph of a different flowebed for each month and captures the flair and imagination that have made Summerhill Court the pride of the North East Inner City.
Meeting with Gardai and Dublin City Council in Community Centre Prussia Street
On 14 March 2007, I organised a meeting with Dublin City Council and the Gardai in the Community Centre Prussia Street to discuss issues of concern to residents. The meeting was very well attended. It was a lively meeting and a wide range of issues were discussed including Prostitution, Anti-social behaviour/criminal damage to cars, CCTV, Litter and street cleaning, and the need for a plan for the area from Infirmary Road to Prussia Street/Manor Street and the North Circular Road to the Quays.
The following notes from the meeting may be of interest:
Minutes of Public Meeting Held in Community Centre Prussia Street with Gardai and Dublin City Council Wednesday 14 March 2007
Garda Issues
Present: Inspector Gerry Barrett, Sergeant Dermot Harrington, Sergeant Kevin Daly, Garda Mary McGonagle
Anti-Social Behaviour – Criminal Damage to Cars
Residents expressed concern about the increasing levels of anti-social behaviour in the Oxmantown/ Stoneybatter area. There were numerous complaints of serious and malicious damage to cars from broken wing mirrors, smashing windscreens, breaking side windows, stealing from cars, and even dancing on car roofs and bonnets. There were other complaints of egg throwing and theft of mobile phones in the area.
The Gardaí acknowledged that there was an alarming increase of anti-social behaviour in the area. In November 19 cars had windscreens smashed on one Saturday night/Sunday morning. At the beginning of March a further seven cars had windows smashed on one Wednesday night/Thursday morning. Sergeant Kevin Daly informed the meeting that five people have been identified for the activities in November and that a file has been sent to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP).
The number of incidents since January are as follows:
January: 13 incidents as follows:
1 car stolen 9 cars damaged 3 criminal damage to property. 3 detected – 23% detection rate
February: 45 incidents
13 cars stolen 25 cars damaged and 7 criminal damage to property 8 detected 17% detection rate
March (first half): 27 incidents
8 cars stolen 18 damage to cars 1 criminal damage to property 17 detected – 63% detection rate
Dublin City Council Issues
Adult Shop in Prussia Street
The meeting heard that Dublin City Council has recently awarded planning permission to extend the opening hours of a shop unit on Prussia Street. Residents expressed their concern that such a shop can open without any requirement for planning permission or licensing. Joe Costello TD and Cllr Emer Costello have long been campaigning on this issue. Despite commitments to change the planning regulations the Minister for the Environment has failed to act on this matter.
Environmental Matters – Dublin City Council
Residents expressed their concern in relation to litter, lack of street cleaning, unemptied public bins, dumping of black bags, the condition of footpaths and roads, tree pruning, flower beds, and traffic. The Labour Party as the largest group on Dublin City Council demanded action from the City Manager on the issue of street cleaning in the 2007 estimates. As a result the Central Area will receive five new street cleaners in 2007.
Charlie Lowe Area Manager acknowledged that the residents had very legitimate grievances outlined the following initiatives by Dublin City Council
In the framework of the O’Devaney Gardens regeneration, Dublin City Council have agreed to implement an uplift for the area including environmental works. Funding has already been made available for tree pruning on the North Circular Road and Infirmary Road. Residents will be consulted about what improvements they would like to see in the area.
The five new street cleaners will operate under the control of the area manager rather than the waste management section. Resources will be targeted to where they are most needed and results will be monitored more closely.
The Central Area is currently formulating a waste management plan for the area which will include specific targets and objectives in terms of street cleaning and waste management. All actions and targets will be reviewed against performance on regular basis.
Need for Local Area Plan for Oxmantown/Stoneybatter/Infirmary Road
Joe Costello called for a Local Area Plan to be drawn up for the area which would plan the future development of the area in terms of infrastructure, open space/recreational space, community resources, transport, planning, and environmental matters. The plan would be drawn up in consultation with the local community, including residents groups, schools, youth groups, senior citizens groups, public representatives etc. and Dublin City Council.
The meeting agreed that this was excellent idea and urged Dublin City Council to start the process for such a plan.
The following notes from the meeting may be of interest:
Minutes of Public Meeting Held in Community Centre Prussia Street with Gardai and Dublin City Council Wednesday 14 March 2007
Garda Issues
Present: Inspector Gerry Barrett, Sergeant Dermot Harrington, Sergeant Kevin Daly, Garda Mary McGonagle
Anti-Social Behaviour – Criminal Damage to Cars
Residents expressed concern about the increasing levels of anti-social behaviour in the Oxmantown/ Stoneybatter area. There were numerous complaints of serious and malicious damage to cars from broken wing mirrors, smashing windscreens, breaking side windows, stealing from cars, and even dancing on car roofs and bonnets. There were other complaints of egg throwing and theft of mobile phones in the area.
The Gardaí acknowledged that there was an alarming increase of anti-social behaviour in the area. In November 19 cars had windscreens smashed on one Saturday night/Sunday morning. At the beginning of March a further seven cars had windows smashed on one Wednesday night/Thursday morning. Sergeant Kevin Daly informed the meeting that five people have been identified for the activities in November and that a file has been sent to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP).
The number of incidents since January are as follows:
January: 13 incidents as follows:
1 car stolen 9 cars damaged 3 criminal damage to property. 3 detected – 23% detection rate
February: 45 incidents
13 cars stolen 25 cars damaged and 7 criminal damage to property 8 detected 17% detection rate
March (first half): 27 incidents
8 cars stolen 18 damage to cars 1 criminal damage to property 17 detected – 63% detection rate
Gardai believe that a small number of youths are responsible for damage to cars including breaking wing mirrors etc. A group of older youths are responsible for the more serious damage and theft of cars. They believe they have identified the main culprits and that the increase in the detection rate should yield a corresponding decline in the levels of anti-social activity.
Residents expressed their frustration with the levels of anti-social behaviour. They also expressed concern about the outcome of prosecutions as many of the youths were minors. It was agreed to monitor the situation in relation to detection and prosecution for these offences.
Prostitution
Residents stated that whereas the number of prostitutes in the area had declined for a while in 2006, the problem is now as bad as ever. The residents expressed their concern at the increase in during the daytime. They reported that prostitutes were on the streets in Arbour Hill from 11.00a.m. until late in the evening. The situation was particularly worrying in the afternoons when children were coming home from school.
Residents also expressed concern that the response from the Gardai was not as prompt as in the past. Residents noted that a number of new faces were appearing in the area and urged the Gardai to take urgent action to ensure that they did not become “regulars” to the area.
Sergeant Dermot Harrington reported that the figures for 2006 were
338 cautions: 46 cautions for males, 292 cautions for females,
32 arrests: 8 male arrests and 24 female arrests resulting in a total of 30 prosecutions.
There were no arrests of pimps for living off immoral earnings of women.
It was noted that the normal penalty for men engaging with a prostitute was normally a fine of €250 for a first offence. The men normally pleaded guilty and paid the fine to have the case dealt with quickly.
Garda Operations in Bridewell
There are currently 14 community gardai working from the Bridewell. There are no designated gardai working solely on the problem of prostitution in the area. There are regular patrols and four community gardai operating on mountain bikes.
Residents were requested to report any suspicious activity to the Bridewell Garda station. The telephone number for the Bridewell Station is 6668246. In the event that you cannot get through to the Bridewell phone the 999 The call will be logged and acted on immediately.
Dublin City Council/Garda Issues
Present: Charlie Lowe, Area Manager & Dave Kenny Assistant Area Manager
Application for Funding for CCTV in Arbour Hill/Montpelier Hill
CCTV had been recommended for the area by the Garda CCTV Steering committee. Following numerous representations by Joe Costello TD to the Minister for Justice, it emerged that the Gardai/Department of Justice would not provide CCTV. Instead the community was advised to apply to Pobal for funding under the Community CCTV scheme.
Residents and Dublin City Council did considerable work on applying for preliminary funding for which they were successful. Dublin City Council then completed a feasibility study and submitted a full application. Pobal have now informed us that for the application to progress the local community has to provide approximately €17,000 of non-public funding as matching funding. Only RAPID Areas are exempt from this requirement. Dublin City Council had agreed to provide some funding for the scheme and to act as Data Controller for the CCTV scheme. Joe Costello TD had requested the Minister to waive the requirement for community funding in view of the recommendations of the Garda CCTV advisory committee and the profile of the area on the border of a RAPID area. However, the Minister refused to waive the community matching funding obligation.
Charlie Lowe the Area Manager informed the meeting that Dublin City Council is planning an overall uplift for the area in the context of the redevelopment of O’Devaney Gardens which is due to start next year. He proposed that the CCTV be rolled out by Dublin City Council within the framework of the general uplift for the area.
The residents expressed their frustration that the Pobal application procedure was bureaucratic and unfair and slow. The requirement of forcing the community to apply for the CCTV system and raise matching funding placed unfair obstacles in our path.
Prostitution
Residents stated that whereas the number of prostitutes in the area had declined for a while in 2006, the problem is now as bad as ever. The residents expressed their concern at the increase in during the daytime. They reported that prostitutes were on the streets in Arbour Hill from 11.00a.m. until late in the evening. The situation was particularly worrying in the afternoons when children were coming home from school.
Residents also expressed concern that the response from the Gardai was not as prompt as in the past. Residents noted that a number of new faces were appearing in the area and urged the Gardai to take urgent action to ensure that they did not become “regulars” to the area.
Sergeant Dermot Harrington reported that the figures for 2006 were
338 cautions: 46 cautions for males, 292 cautions for females,
32 arrests: 8 male arrests and 24 female arrests resulting in a total of 30 prosecutions.
There were no arrests of pimps for living off immoral earnings of women.
It was noted that the normal penalty for men engaging with a prostitute was normally a fine of €250 for a first offence. The men normally pleaded guilty and paid the fine to have the case dealt with quickly.
Garda Operations in Bridewell
There are currently 14 community gardai working from the Bridewell. There are no designated gardai working solely on the problem of prostitution in the area. There are regular patrols and four community gardai operating on mountain bikes.
Residents were requested to report any suspicious activity to the Bridewell Garda station. The telephone number for the Bridewell Station is 6668246. In the event that you cannot get through to the Bridewell phone the 999 The call will be logged and acted on immediately.
Dublin City Council/Garda Issues
Present: Charlie Lowe, Area Manager & Dave Kenny Assistant Area Manager
Application for Funding for CCTV in Arbour Hill/Montpelier Hill
CCTV had been recommended for the area by the Garda CCTV Steering committee. Following numerous representations by Joe Costello TD to the Minister for Justice, it emerged that the Gardai/Department of Justice would not provide CCTV. Instead the community was advised to apply to Pobal for funding under the Community CCTV scheme.
Residents and Dublin City Council did considerable work on applying for preliminary funding for which they were successful. Dublin City Council then completed a feasibility study and submitted a full application. Pobal have now informed us that for the application to progress the local community has to provide approximately €17,000 of non-public funding as matching funding. Only RAPID Areas are exempt from this requirement. Dublin City Council had agreed to provide some funding for the scheme and to act as Data Controller for the CCTV scheme. Joe Costello TD had requested the Minister to waive the requirement for community funding in view of the recommendations of the Garda CCTV advisory committee and the profile of the area on the border of a RAPID area. However, the Minister refused to waive the community matching funding obligation.
Charlie Lowe the Area Manager informed the meeting that Dublin City Council is planning an overall uplift for the area in the context of the redevelopment of O’Devaney Gardens which is due to start next year. He proposed that the CCTV be rolled out by Dublin City Council within the framework of the general uplift for the area.
The residents expressed their frustration that the Pobal application procedure was bureaucratic and unfair and slow. The requirement of forcing the community to apply for the CCTV system and raise matching funding placed unfair obstacles in our path.
Dublin City Council Issues
Adult Shop in Prussia Street
The meeting heard that Dublin City Council has recently awarded planning permission to extend the opening hours of a shop unit on Prussia Street. Residents expressed their concern that such a shop can open without any requirement for planning permission or licensing. Joe Costello TD and Cllr Emer Costello have long been campaigning on this issue. Despite commitments to change the planning regulations the Minister for the Environment has failed to act on this matter.
Environmental Matters – Dublin City Council
Residents expressed their concern in relation to litter, lack of street cleaning, unemptied public bins, dumping of black bags, the condition of footpaths and roads, tree pruning, flower beds, and traffic. The Labour Party as the largest group on Dublin City Council demanded action from the City Manager on the issue of street cleaning in the 2007 estimates. As a result the Central Area will receive five new street cleaners in 2007.
Charlie Lowe Area Manager acknowledged that the residents had very legitimate grievances outlined the following initiatives by Dublin City Council
In the framework of the O’Devaney Gardens regeneration, Dublin City Council have agreed to implement an uplift for the area including environmental works. Funding has already been made available for tree pruning on the North Circular Road and Infirmary Road. Residents will be consulted about what improvements they would like to see in the area.
The five new street cleaners will operate under the control of the area manager rather than the waste management section. Resources will be targeted to where they are most needed and results will be monitored more closely.
The Central Area is currently formulating a waste management plan for the area which will include specific targets and objectives in terms of street cleaning and waste management. All actions and targets will be reviewed against performance on regular basis.
Need for Local Area Plan for Oxmantown/Stoneybatter/Infirmary Road
Joe Costello called for a Local Area Plan to be drawn up for the area which would plan the future development of the area in terms of infrastructure, open space/recreational space, community resources, transport, planning, and environmental matters. The plan would be drawn up in consultation with the local community, including residents groups, schools, youth groups, senior citizens groups, public representatives etc. and Dublin City Council.
The meeting agreed that this was excellent idea and urged Dublin City Council to start the process for such a plan.
Planning News: Bord Pleanala Reject Development at St Ignatius Road & Planning Enforcement at Killarney Parade
A planning application for the demolition of the existing factory building and the construction of a two storey development with 12 units (7 studio/gallery units and 5 two-bedroom units) on the site on the Royal Canal Bank to the rear of 16-23 St Ignatius Road, Dublin 7 was lodged in March 20006. Residents objected to the development of this site on the following grounds:
It was located in a conservation zone with Z9 (open space zoning), and so would contravene the Dublin City Development Plan (2005-2011)
The use of the vehicular access would also cause noise and disturbance and during the construction phase would breach the three tonne limit.
The development would not meet the provisions of legislation and of the development plan in respect of affordable housing, waste storage, and road and footpath standards.
I supported the residents’ objections to this application and submitted an objection to Dublin City Council. Despite the objections, Dublin City Council granted planning permission on 27 July 2006 subject to a number of mainly standard conditions. Residents appealed the decision to An Bord Pleanala and again I supported the residents appeal.
I am pleased to inform you that An Bord Pleanala have notified us on 26 February of their decision to Refuse Permission for this development. The Bord accepted the residents objections and refused permission for the following reasons:
The site is located in an area zoned Z9 in the Dublin City Development Plan, 2005-2011, where it is the objective of the planning authority to preserve, provide and improve recreational amenity and open space. It is considered that the proposed residential development would contravene materially the zoning objective of the development plan and would, therefore, be contrary to the proper planning and sustainable development of the area.
The site is located within a designated conservation area, which includes the Royal Canal and its banks, where it is the policy of the planning authority, as set out in the development plan, to have particular regard to the effect of the proposal on buildings and the surrounding environment, in terms of compatibility of design, scale, height, plot width, roof treatment, materials, landscaping, mix and intensity of use. The proposed development would not be compatible with the surroundings in respect of several of these aspects including design, scale, roof treatment and materials and would, therefore, conflict with the provisions of the development plan, would seriously injure the amenities of this conservation area and would be contrary to the proper planning and sustainable development of the area.
Having regard to its siting close to the adjacent residential properties in Saint Ignatius Road, and taking account of its scale and design, it is considered that the proposed development would seriously injure the amenities of those properties by reason of visual obtrusion and would, therefore, be contrary to the proper planning and sustainable development of the area.
The proposed live-work units would be likely to generate vehicular traffic and a requirement for parking space for which no provision would be made, creating increased pressure on the limited parking space available in Saint Ignatius Road or in the laneway leading to the site and resulting in obstruction of road users and road safety hazards. The proposed development would, therefore, be contrary to the proper planning and sustainable development of the area.
Planning Enforcement Killarney Parade
A number of residents expressed concern that 13 Killarney Parade was being subdivided. We requested the Planning Enforcement Section to carry out an inspection and report back. We received the following report from Planning Enforcement in relation to this property:
"A recent inspection by the Planning Enforcement Officer for the area has revealed the house is undergoing extensive internal renovations and the foundations for a single storey extension to the rear had been laid. These renovations etc have been ceased for the past couple of months and are due to recommence in about a month’s time. The works are due to be completed around July 2007.
There is no evidence that the house has been subdivided into multiple units. The floor area of the extension to the rear is approximately 20 square meters and there would appear to be more than 25 square meters of open space remaining.
The owner informed the Enforcement Officer that the house when finished will be a single dwelling and will not be subdivided into a multi-occupancy dwelling with self-contained units.A further inspection will be carried out in July to ensure that the property is set up and in use as a single dwelling unit."
It was located in a conservation zone with Z9 (open space zoning), and so would contravene the Dublin City Development Plan (2005-2011)
The use of the vehicular access would also cause noise and disturbance and during the construction phase would breach the three tonne limit.
The development would not meet the provisions of legislation and of the development plan in respect of affordable housing, waste storage, and road and footpath standards.
I supported the residents’ objections to this application and submitted an objection to Dublin City Council. Despite the objections, Dublin City Council granted planning permission on 27 July 2006 subject to a number of mainly standard conditions. Residents appealed the decision to An Bord Pleanala and again I supported the residents appeal.
I am pleased to inform you that An Bord Pleanala have notified us on 26 February of their decision to Refuse Permission for this development. The Bord accepted the residents objections and refused permission for the following reasons:
The site is located in an area zoned Z9 in the Dublin City Development Plan, 2005-2011, where it is the objective of the planning authority to preserve, provide and improve recreational amenity and open space. It is considered that the proposed residential development would contravene materially the zoning objective of the development plan and would, therefore, be contrary to the proper planning and sustainable development of the area.
The site is located within a designated conservation area, which includes the Royal Canal and its banks, where it is the policy of the planning authority, as set out in the development plan, to have particular regard to the effect of the proposal on buildings and the surrounding environment, in terms of compatibility of design, scale, height, plot width, roof treatment, materials, landscaping, mix and intensity of use. The proposed development would not be compatible with the surroundings in respect of several of these aspects including design, scale, roof treatment and materials and would, therefore, conflict with the provisions of the development plan, would seriously injure the amenities of this conservation area and would be contrary to the proper planning and sustainable development of the area.
Having regard to its siting close to the adjacent residential properties in Saint Ignatius Road, and taking account of its scale and design, it is considered that the proposed development would seriously injure the amenities of those properties by reason of visual obtrusion and would, therefore, be contrary to the proper planning and sustainable development of the area.
The proposed live-work units would be likely to generate vehicular traffic and a requirement for parking space for which no provision would be made, creating increased pressure on the limited parking space available in Saint Ignatius Road or in the laneway leading to the site and resulting in obstruction of road users and road safety hazards. The proposed development would, therefore, be contrary to the proper planning and sustainable development of the area.
Planning Enforcement Killarney Parade
A number of residents expressed concern that 13 Killarney Parade was being subdivided. We requested the Planning Enforcement Section to carry out an inspection and report back. We received the following report from Planning Enforcement in relation to this property:
"A recent inspection by the Planning Enforcement Officer for the area has revealed the house is undergoing extensive internal renovations and the foundations for a single storey extension to the rear had been laid. These renovations etc have been ceased for the past couple of months and are due to recommence in about a month’s time. The works are due to be completed around July 2007.
There is no evidence that the house has been subdivided into multiple units. The floor area of the extension to the rear is approximately 20 square meters and there would appear to be more than 25 square meters of open space remaining.
The owner informed the Enforcement Officer that the house when finished will be a single dwelling and will not be subdivided into a multi-occupancy dwelling with self-contained units.A further inspection will be carried out in July to ensure that the property is set up and in use as a single dwelling unit."
New Application for Bakery Site, Phibsborough
Stateford have lodged a new planning application for the Bakery Site, Cross Guns Bridge on 16th February 2007.
The main features of the application are as follows:
The demolition of all structures on the site and their replacement with four buildings comprising 213 residential units, a shop, a juice bar, gymnasium and crèche/childcare facility and basement car-park
207 of the residential units will be contained within two buildings ranging in height from 6 to 13 storeys
The breakdown of the accommodation units are as follows:
25 one-bedroom apartments, 18 one-bedroom live/work units
91 two bedroom apartments , 2 two bedroom live work units
71 three bedroom apartments
A basement car-park comprising 281 car-parking spaces and 226 cycle spaces with vehicular access off Phibsborough Road
§ A gymnasium to be located in the basement
§ The third building will comprise 6 two storey town-houses
§ The fourth building will contain a childcare facility
A previous application for a similar development with 213 apartments and six town houses was submitted in July 2006. This was refused permission by Dublin City Council on the grounds that
1. The proposal “would result in a unacceptable congested form of urban residential infill that would be seriously injurious to the both the residential amenity of the immediate adjoining residential development and the amenity value of the proposed residential units themselves”
2. Issues relating to the internal layout of the apartments such as the small number of family sized three bedroom units and the high proportion of single aspect units, which would “constitute a sub-standard form of residential development.
3. The lack of open space provision and in particular “the absence of any meaningful open space provision on site, communal or dedicated, to serve a majority of the units, would constitute a sub-standard form of residential development, would be contrary to the Dublin City Development Plan”
The Planner concluded that for these three reasons the previous proposal “would set an undesirable precedent for similar such developments, and as such would be contrary to the proper planning and sustainable development of the area.” Following the DCC decision, Stateford lodged an appeal to An Bord Pleanala and then subsequently withdrew the appeal.
Objections must be lodged with Dublin City Council by Thursday 22nd March, 2007 and should be accompanied by a fee of €20. The full planning application may be inspected at Dublin City Council Offices, Wood Quay Dublin 8 from 9.00 a.m. to 4.30 p.m. The planning Counter is open through lunchtime.
I will be arranging for representatives from the local residents associations to attend a planning information meeting to assist them prepare a submission in relation to the current application.
The main features of the application are as follows:
The demolition of all structures on the site and their replacement with four buildings comprising 213 residential units, a shop, a juice bar, gymnasium and crèche/childcare facility and basement car-park
207 of the residential units will be contained within two buildings ranging in height from 6 to 13 storeys
The breakdown of the accommodation units are as follows:
25 one-bedroom apartments, 18 one-bedroom live/work units
91 two bedroom apartments , 2 two bedroom live work units
71 three bedroom apartments
A basement car-park comprising 281 car-parking spaces and 226 cycle spaces with vehicular access off Phibsborough Road
§ A gymnasium to be located in the basement
§ The third building will comprise 6 two storey town-houses
§ The fourth building will contain a childcare facility
A previous application for a similar development with 213 apartments and six town houses was submitted in July 2006. This was refused permission by Dublin City Council on the grounds that
1. The proposal “would result in a unacceptable congested form of urban residential infill that would be seriously injurious to the both the residential amenity of the immediate adjoining residential development and the amenity value of the proposed residential units themselves”
2. Issues relating to the internal layout of the apartments such as the small number of family sized three bedroom units and the high proportion of single aspect units, which would “constitute a sub-standard form of residential development.
3. The lack of open space provision and in particular “the absence of any meaningful open space provision on site, communal or dedicated, to serve a majority of the units, would constitute a sub-standard form of residential development, would be contrary to the Dublin City Development Plan”
The Planner concluded that for these three reasons the previous proposal “would set an undesirable precedent for similar such developments, and as such would be contrary to the proper planning and sustainable development of the area.” Following the DCC decision, Stateford lodged an appeal to An Bord Pleanala and then subsequently withdrew the appeal.
Objections must be lodged with Dublin City Council by Thursday 22nd March, 2007 and should be accompanied by a fee of €20. The full planning application may be inspected at Dublin City Council Offices, Wood Quay Dublin 8 from 9.00 a.m. to 4.30 p.m. The planning Counter is open through lunchtime.
I will be arranging for representatives from the local residents associations to attend a planning information meeting to assist them prepare a submission in relation to the current application.
Proposed Traffic Changes at Arbour Hill/Montpelier Hill
In 2005 Dublin City Council introduced major traffic calming measures at Arbour Hill/Montpelier Hill without any consultation with local residents and as a result created traffic mayhem in the area. Following the public outcry over the changes the traffic restrictions were removed and Dublin City Council agreed to engage in a public consultation on any further traffic calming measures in the area.
The Traffic Department has now presented five options to resolve traffic issues at Arbour Hill/Montpelier Hill and will be putting this out to public consultation over the next few weeks.
The options and advantages and disadvantages of each option as outlined by the Traffic Department as presented as follows:
Option 1 Do-nothing
No change in traffic flows or traffic movements on Arbour Hill, Montpelier Hill or
Temple Street West.
Advantages
Less inconvenience for residents living on Arbour Hill, Montpelier Hill and Temple Street West in accessing their roads.
Disadvantages
No reduction in through traffic on Arbour Hill, Montpelier Hill and Temple Street West.
Little reduction in traffic speeds on the middle and west part of Arbour Hill.
Option 2 Traffic calming on Arbour Hill with no traffic restrictions
To reduce speeding on Arbour Hill, speed ramps (4.5m) are proposed near Lighting Standards at the following locations: near entrance to prison car park, in front of the prison, near entrance to the church, facing gable of No. 1 Ard Righ Road and two further optional ramps in front of No. 20 Arbour Hill and west of No. 10B Arbour Hill
Advantages
Reduction in traffic speeds on Arbour Hill.
Less inconvenience for residents than with traffic restrictions.
Disadvantages
Little effect or reduction in through traffic volumes.
Increased traffic noise in immediate vicinity of ramps near the residential end at No. 20 and at No. 10B Arbour Hill.
High cost for providing ramps.
Option 3 Morning peak restrictions.
Reduce the amount of traffic in the morning peak from Parkgate Street using Arbour Hill and Montpelier Hill as a through route to Brunswick Street North.
Advantages
Reduction in through traffic on Arbour Hill and Montpelier Hill from Infirmary Road and Wolfe Tone Quay.
More pleasant environment for residents.
Disadvantages
Will inconvenience local residents from 7am to 10am.
Difficult to enforce the ‘no right turn’ and ‘no left turn’ traffic restrictions in the morning peak, particularly the ‘no left turn’ from the north quays.
May result in additional traffic being generated on Montpelier Gardens and Oxmantown Road.
Option 4 Traffic Signals with No left turn and a No right turn from Stoneybatter onto Arbour Hill.
The provision of traffic signals aims to improve traffic flow at the junction of Arbour Hill, North Brunswick Street and Stoneybatter, in particular for the Blanchardstown QBC and traffic from Arbour Hill. Access to Arbour Hill will be via Manor Place and Ard Righ Road.
Advantages
Improve traffic flow at the junction by reducing conflicts from the different traffic movements at the junction
Assists northbound traffic from Blackhall Place, which is often delayed by traffic turning left into Arbour Hill from Blackhall Place.
Disadvantages
Will inconvenience local residents traffic from Stoneybatter along Arbour Hill
Little effect on or reduction in morning peak through eastbound traffic volumes.
Difficult to enforce the ‘no right turn’ and ‘no left turn’ traffic restrictions.
May result in additional traffic using Manor Place and nearby roads.
Option 5 No entry on Temple Street West north of the junction with Montpelier Hill
All eastbound traffic from Montpelier Hill to be diverted right only onto Temple Street West to North Quays. Traffic from North Quays onto Temple Street West to be diverted left only onto Montpelier Hill.
Advantages
Reduction in through traffic on Arbour Hill from Infirmary Road, Montpelier Hill and Temple Street West.
Westbound and eastbound traffic flow maintained on Arbour Hill for residents.
More pleasant environment for residents.
Disadvantages
Will inconvenience residents and business on Montpelier Hill and Temple Street West.
May not reduce through traffic on Arbour Hill between the junctions with Ard Righ Road and Stoneybatter.
Difficult to enforce the ‘No Entry’ traffic restriction.
May result in additional traffic being generated on Montpelier Gardens and Oxmantown Road.
High cost for providing traffic signals
Consultation
A public consultation on the traffic management options will be held in the coming weeks. It is proposed to set up two displays and invite written submissions from interested parties on the matter. One display will be held in the Civic Offices and a second display will be held in the area at a location to be decided. The outcome of the public consultation will be presented to the Area Committee before a final decision is made. I will keep you informed of developments.
I would welcome your feedback on these proposals. Please feel free to leave a comment here on this blog, or email us at emercostello@eircom.net or call us at (01) 8308182 / 086 3831805, or call to our advice centre at the Community Centre, Prussia Street, Mondays from 5.30 to 6.30 p.m.
The Traffic Department has now presented five options to resolve traffic issues at Arbour Hill/Montpelier Hill and will be putting this out to public consultation over the next few weeks.
The options and advantages and disadvantages of each option as outlined by the Traffic Department as presented as follows:
Option 1 Do-nothing
No change in traffic flows or traffic movements on Arbour Hill, Montpelier Hill or
Temple Street West.
Advantages
Less inconvenience for residents living on Arbour Hill, Montpelier Hill and Temple Street West in accessing their roads.
Disadvantages
No reduction in through traffic on Arbour Hill, Montpelier Hill and Temple Street West.
Little reduction in traffic speeds on the middle and west part of Arbour Hill.
Option 2 Traffic calming on Arbour Hill with no traffic restrictions
To reduce speeding on Arbour Hill, speed ramps (4.5m) are proposed near Lighting Standards at the following locations: near entrance to prison car park, in front of the prison, near entrance to the church, facing gable of No. 1 Ard Righ Road and two further optional ramps in front of No. 20 Arbour Hill and west of No. 10B Arbour Hill
Advantages
Reduction in traffic speeds on Arbour Hill.
Less inconvenience for residents than with traffic restrictions.
Disadvantages
Little effect or reduction in through traffic volumes.
Increased traffic noise in immediate vicinity of ramps near the residential end at No. 20 and at No. 10B Arbour Hill.
High cost for providing ramps.
Option 3 Morning peak restrictions.
Reduce the amount of traffic in the morning peak from Parkgate Street using Arbour Hill and Montpelier Hill as a through route to Brunswick Street North.
Advantages
Reduction in through traffic on Arbour Hill and Montpelier Hill from Infirmary Road and Wolfe Tone Quay.
More pleasant environment for residents.
Disadvantages
Will inconvenience local residents from 7am to 10am.
Difficult to enforce the ‘no right turn’ and ‘no left turn’ traffic restrictions in the morning peak, particularly the ‘no left turn’ from the north quays.
May result in additional traffic being generated on Montpelier Gardens and Oxmantown Road.
Option 4 Traffic Signals with No left turn and a No right turn from Stoneybatter onto Arbour Hill.
The provision of traffic signals aims to improve traffic flow at the junction of Arbour Hill, North Brunswick Street and Stoneybatter, in particular for the Blanchardstown QBC and traffic from Arbour Hill. Access to Arbour Hill will be via Manor Place and Ard Righ Road.
Advantages
Improve traffic flow at the junction by reducing conflicts from the different traffic movements at the junction
Assists northbound traffic from Blackhall Place, which is often delayed by traffic turning left into Arbour Hill from Blackhall Place.
Disadvantages
Will inconvenience local residents traffic from Stoneybatter along Arbour Hill
Little effect on or reduction in morning peak through eastbound traffic volumes.
Difficult to enforce the ‘no right turn’ and ‘no left turn’ traffic restrictions.
May result in additional traffic using Manor Place and nearby roads.
Option 5 No entry on Temple Street West north of the junction with Montpelier Hill
All eastbound traffic from Montpelier Hill to be diverted right only onto Temple Street West to North Quays. Traffic from North Quays onto Temple Street West to be diverted left only onto Montpelier Hill.
Advantages
Reduction in through traffic on Arbour Hill from Infirmary Road, Montpelier Hill and Temple Street West.
Westbound and eastbound traffic flow maintained on Arbour Hill for residents.
More pleasant environment for residents.
Disadvantages
Will inconvenience residents and business on Montpelier Hill and Temple Street West.
May not reduce through traffic on Arbour Hill between the junctions with Ard Righ Road and Stoneybatter.
Difficult to enforce the ‘No Entry’ traffic restriction.
May result in additional traffic being generated on Montpelier Gardens and Oxmantown Road.
High cost for providing traffic signals
Consultation
A public consultation on the traffic management options will be held in the coming weeks. It is proposed to set up two displays and invite written submissions from interested parties on the matter. One display will be held in the Civic Offices and a second display will be held in the area at a location to be decided. The outcome of the public consultation will be presented to the Area Committee before a final decision is made. I will keep you informed of developments.
I would welcome your feedback on these proposals. Please feel free to leave a comment here on this blog, or email us at emercostello@eircom.net or call us at (01) 8308182 / 086 3831805, or call to our advice centre at the Community Centre, Prussia Street, Mondays from 5.30 to 6.30 p.m.
Local Area Plan for Phibsoborough
Dublin City Council has agreed in principle to change their proposal for a Framework Plan for the future development of the Phibsborough Area to a Local Area Plan (LAP) as requested by a number of local Residents Associations.
The main difference between the Local Area Plan (LAP) and the Framework Plan is that the Local Area Plan is protected by legislation and neither Dublin City Council nor An Bord Pleanala can contravene the statutory provisions of an LAP.
As you are aware there are proposals for major developments in the area:
Mater Hospital/Temple Street Hospital; Mountjoy Prison; Dalymount Park; Grangegorman; Hedigan’s Pub and the old Bakery Site. Already there has been a proposal for a thirteen storey development on the Bakery Site (which was rejected by Dublin City Council).
These are all substantial development which will transform the Phibsborough Area in terms of housing density, skyline and traffic. It is essential that a statutory plan be put in place as quickly as possible to ensure that Phibsborough is developed on a planned basis, retains its rich architectural and residential character and that all future developments are carefully planned and monitored
Consultants have been appointed and will now liaise with the Dublin City Council and the local residents associations in preparing a draft of the Local Area Plan. The Draft Plan which is expected to be ready within three months will be put on public display for a six week period to enable the public to make submissions. After the period of public consultation the Planning Department of Dublin City Council will have six weeks to consider the submissions and amend the plan accordingly. The plan is then presented to the City Council and the Councillors have a further six weeks to consider the plan and propose amendments. Finally the plan will be adopted by the City Council.
The acceptance by Dublin City Council of the need for a statutory local area plan is an important step in ensuring that the people of Phibsborough will have a major say in the future development of their area.
I will keep you informed of the various phases in the preparation of the plan.
As ever, I would welcome your thoughts and opinions as we head into the pre-draft stage. Please leave a comment here if you would like to share your views on the formulation of an area plan.
The main difference between the Local Area Plan (LAP) and the Framework Plan is that the Local Area Plan is protected by legislation and neither Dublin City Council nor An Bord Pleanala can contravene the statutory provisions of an LAP.
As you are aware there are proposals for major developments in the area:
Mater Hospital/Temple Street Hospital; Mountjoy Prison; Dalymount Park; Grangegorman; Hedigan’s Pub and the old Bakery Site. Already there has been a proposal for a thirteen storey development on the Bakery Site (which was rejected by Dublin City Council).
These are all substantial development which will transform the Phibsborough Area in terms of housing density, skyline and traffic. It is essential that a statutory plan be put in place as quickly as possible to ensure that Phibsborough is developed on a planned basis, retains its rich architectural and residential character and that all future developments are carefully planned and monitored
Consultants have been appointed and will now liaise with the Dublin City Council and the local residents associations in preparing a draft of the Local Area Plan. The Draft Plan which is expected to be ready within three months will be put on public display for a six week period to enable the public to make submissions. After the period of public consultation the Planning Department of Dublin City Council will have six weeks to consider the submissions and amend the plan accordingly. The plan is then presented to the City Council and the Councillors have a further six weeks to consider the plan and propose amendments. Finally the plan will be adopted by the City Council.
The acceptance by Dublin City Council of the need for a statutory local area plan is an important step in ensuring that the people of Phibsborough will have a major say in the future development of their area.
I will keep you informed of the various phases in the preparation of the plan.
As ever, I would welcome your thoughts and opinions as we head into the pre-draft stage. Please leave a comment here if you would like to share your views on the formulation of an area plan.
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