A view from the Left - Cllr Seamus Ryan's Blog

Weekly Advice Centre Continues

2012-01-18T14:40:00.000Z

Cllr Seamus Ryan Advice Centre (mp3)
Have a listen.

My weekly Advice Centre continues in the Community House, 61 Clonard Park Ballybeg Waterford every Tuesday at 12 noon. All are welcome.

Ongoing success of BreastCheck in Waterford is to be welcomed

2012-01-12T21:21:00.002Z

The following is a copy of a press release I issued earlier this week welcoming the ongoing success of BreastCheck the national breast cancer screening programme for women in Waterford.

Waterford City Councillor Seamus Ryan has welcomed the ongoing success of BreastCheck, the national breast cancer screening programme for women aged 50 -64. The second round of screening for women in Waterford began in November with the mobile unit located at the Waterford Regional Sports Centre. It is expected that some 7,500 women will be screened over the next few months.

Eligible women in the Waterford City area will receive an appointment by post to attend for screening. Should the appointment time not suit any woman, this can be re-arranged if she rings the phone number provided with her appointment letter.

BreastCheck is committed to the continued delivery of a quality assured screening programme that uses specialist expertise and multi disciplinary teams to achieve its goal of reducing the number of deaths from breast cancer through early detection and treatment. They go on to encourage all women aged 50-64 to check that their name is on the BreastCheck register by calling Freephone 1800 45 45 55, checking online on the BreastCheck website www.breastcheck.ie or by filling in and returning a Registration Form by Freepost.
Cllr Ryan concluded by saying that early detection as well as improved treatment methods are both key to the improved survival rates from breast cancer. The arrival of BreastCheck to Waterford City for this second round screening ensures that it continues play a key role in detecting breast cancer and saving lives.

Household Charge - my thoughts

2012-01-06T14:58:00.000Z

The new Household Charge continues to generate much debate as to its merits and demerits. For my own part I see it as a tax that it is both unfair and inequitable. This tax is totally regressive and takes no account of value of property or indeed ability to pay. How can it be right or just that someone living in a modest 2 or 3 bedroom semi detached house is being asked to pay the same as someone living in a lavish large house with significant grounds. Once again those on low and middle incomes are being asked to pay for a crisis they did not create. There is considerable and growing anger amongst the public about the introduction of this charge as people realise that this is just the thin edge of the wedge. I do agree with the principle of broadening the tax base to bring in extra revenue for the exchequer however once again the focus is being put on those on low and middle incomes. Opposition to the charge is growing across the country and understandably in my opinion. Minister Phil Hogan needs to revisit this tax immediately. Remember you can't ask people to pay something they haven't got. Watch this space!!

Another Year another Budget

2011-12-20T05:22:00.001Z

Last night Waterford City Council passed its annual budget. This budget was a particularly difficult one following cuts in the grant from government of over €1.5m. However I was pleased that we managed to put through the budget without any increase in charges of any kind. So no increase in commercial rates, no increase in housing rents, no increase in parking charges and no increase in any other charges. However the coming year will be a difficult one for the city with budgets being cut in the area of housing maintenance, roads and the library service.

I was disappointed however that my amendment to provide additional support for the library services failed to get sufficient support.

Cuts to DEIS Schools in Waterford to hit hard

2011-12-19T10:33:00.001Z

There were many tough measures introduced as part of the recent budget. However one area in particular I am concerned about is the cuts outlined in the Education Budget. I have always believed that in time of recession the one area government should continue to invest in is education. As member of the Labour Party I have always worked towards equality of access to public services such as education. I further believe that a well funded education system will provide the catalyst for economic recovery. That is why I was dismayed at the proposed cuts in the DEIS Programme. DEIS - Delivering Equality of Opportunity in Schools was introduced to allow children in disadvantaged or RAPID areas achieve their full potential. Waterford City has one DEIS 1 and 6 DEIS 2 schools and from correspondence I received recently it seems the recent cuts will hit the DEIS 2 schools hardest. According to one school Principal ten permanent teaching posts in five Inner City Schools will be suppressed in September 2012. This follows earlier cuts where Resource Teachers were withdrawn in September 2011. My main concern here is for the children who will undoubtedly be affected by higher greater class sizes. Balancing the budgets over the next number of years will undoubtedly be difficult however please do not do so at the expense of educating our young people. There is a better way.

New Pedestrian Crossing for Ballybeg is to be welcomed

2011-12-18T22:11:00.000Z

The following is the text of a press statement I released earlier this week regarding the new Pedestrian Crossing in Ballybeg Waterford.

The new pedestrian crossing has been installed at St Saviours GAA playing fields in Ballybeg Waterford. St. Saviours GAA club Ballybeg had been seeking a pedestrian crossing on Ballybeg Drive adjacent to their playing fields in order to facilitate the safety of their members who use this very busy road on a daily basis. Speaking at a recent meeting of the Waterford City South Branch of the Labour Party Cllr Ryan stated that he had campaigned for this for some time and was now pleased to see it in use.

Labour TDs vent fury over Taoiseach remarks

2011-11-24T08:47:00.000Z

Labour TDs vent fury over Taoiseach remarks - Irish Examiner
Reports in today's Irish Examiner about the inappropriate comments made by Enda Kenny about Tanaiste Eamonn Gilmore has quite rightly provoked anger not just from Labour Party TD's but also from Labour Party members throughout the country. The Taoiseach's reported remarks about making an "honest leader" of Mr Gilmore was followed by further comments by a Fine Gael backbencher regarding Labour Party's position on proposed health cuts. There is a sense amongst Labour Party members at the moment that Fine Gael ministers are lording it over their Labour Party counterparts. In my opinion this is not the case but these kind of statements from the Taoiseach and other Fine Gael backbenchers does not augur well for the future relationship between the government parties .

You can't govern by Kite Flying

2011-11-23T12:41:00.001Z

There are so many political "kites" in the air at the moment that I wonder will we have to call in air traffic control to bring some order to the skies!. It seems every government Minister feels the need to fly some kite about the forthcoming Budget. However whereas this might fulfill some political purpose for government Ministers and their Departments it is causing extreme worry and stress for many families throughout the country. In some cases this concern may not even be necessary. Over the last number of weeks I have been contacted by many families rightly worried about possible cuts in Child Benefit, possible cuts in social welfare rates, possible increases in third level fees or as of today charges on medical cards and that's just the name a few "kites". If as they say the purpose of this so called kite flying is to gauge public opinion about a proposed budgetary measure surely this could be achieved in a different manner. Less of the "kite flying" please and a bit more respect for the people these measures will hit if introduced.

Bike Rental Scheme for Waterford - is it on?

2011-11-03T21:36:00.000Z

I was particularly pleased to learn today that Labour Minister Alan Kelly is holding a public symposium on the possibility of rolling out the bike rental scheme to Waterford. Regular readers of this blog will know that this is something I have been campaigning on for quite some time. Next Wednesday 9th November a meeting will take place in the Large Room City Hall at 10.30am where Minister Kelly will consult with all the stakeholders on the feasibility of introducing such a scheme to Waterford. Full details are available on the National Transport Authority site here

Vote Michael D Higgins for President

2011-10-24T15:03:00.000+01:00

The following is a press release I issued today asking Waterford voters to vote for Michael D Higgins for President.

Labour Party Cllr Seamus Ryan has urged Waterford voters to give Michael D Higgins their No. 1 vote in the upcoming Presidential election.

“Michael D Higgins has given a lifetime of public service and his record stands strong behind him. He has been, and continues to be a strong and powerful voice that fights injustices in the world and he has been courageous in fighting to secure women’s rights, civil liberties and social justices.

“It is this fight for equality that is the backbone to Michael D’s presidential campaign. He has a vision of a real Republic, an inclusive citizenship where everyone participates equally.

“Creativity is also important to Michael D, not only in the arts, but also in terms of technology and business. As Minister for Arts, Culture and the Gaeltacht he set up TG4 and helped to build the film industry into the booming €500m industry that we see today. If elected, he will continue to champion this creativity both at home and abroad.

“Michael D is a man of integrity and he has demonstrated this throughout his career. He has the experience, the leadership qualities and the passion required in the role of President. I am therefore urging people to give Michael D Higgins; the President who will do us proud, their No. 1 vote on October 27^th.”

Be careful what we wish for

2011-08-27T20:00:00.000+01:00

Scrap the Presidency, Cut the number of TD'S, Get rid of the Seanad, Abolish the Councils, Who needs Councillors? These are some of the calls that have dominated our media in recent months. However I believe we need to be careful what we wish for here. I would be the first to agree that our system of government both national and local needs to be reformed however I do get worried when I hear commentators call for the scrapping of this elected office or abolishing another elected office. Remember there are many countries in the world today that would only be too delighted to have a democratically elected President or Senate or Council. Reform yes Abolish No. What do you think?

Keeping in Touch

2011-08-27T19:45:00.001+01:00

Since I was first elected as a Labour Party Councillor in 1999 I have used every available means to keep in touch with those people I represent. Of course the most important means of communicating with your electorate is by maintaining the personal touch. I have done this by continuing to hold a weekly Advice Centre in the Community House Clonard Park every Tuesday at 12 noon. I also hold a monthly Advice Centre in the Parish Rooms Lisduggan on the last Friday every month at 6pm.

In this age it is also important to maintain an online presence. I was the first elected representative in Waterford to maintain an online presence through my blog. A View from the Left was first launched in 2006 and now 5 years on it continues to attract a loyal and increasing number of readers. It has given me an opportunity to express my views and engage with readers on many subjects both national and international. In the last couple of years I have begun to use my Facebook and Twitter accounts to great effect.

Twitter: www.twitter.com/seamusryan1
Facebook: www.facebok.com/cllrseamusryan

Bicycle rental scheme for Waterford?

2011-08-24T09:48:00.000+01:00

The following is a copy of a press release I issued this week.

Labour Party Councillor Seamus Ryan has called for the introduction of a bicycle rental scheme in Waterford similar to the one currently in place in Dublin.

According to Cllr Ryan there is great potential for having a successful bicycle rental scheme in Waterford City which could help alleviate some of our traffic problems. He has been informed by the Roads Department in Waterford City Council that the Council has already engaged with the National Transport Authority on a proposed roll out of a bicycle rental scheme in the regional cities and a study has been undertaken for Waterford. Reports suggest that the National Transport Authority will be recommending a national roll out to the regional cities and I am calling on the Authority to include Waterford in the next phase of this roll out. "The benefits of such a scheme could be great with two major routes from the City Centre to WIT and the City Centre to Waterford Regional Hospital being obvious locations for bicycle rental units. Such a scheme will be particularly attractive to those in Waterford who don't own a bike " This is something I will be pursuing with the Roads Department in Waterford City Council and the National Transport Authority in order to ensure that the people of Waterford have an efficient, healthy, pleasant and fun way to get around the city.

Presidential race wide open?

2011-07-31T14:30:00.000+01:00

I had intended in blogging about the Presidential campaign today. Not necessarily about David Norris but the events of the past week means that I should at least mention his campaign The past week has been a traumatic one for Senator Norris and his bid to become the next President of Ireland. With members of his team resigning over the last few days and his struggle to gain sufficient backing to be put on the ballot papers it would seem that his campaign is doomed to fail. However politics can be strange and who knows? Up to now I have felt that he should be given the opportunity to have his name on the ballot paper and events of the last few days have not really changed my opinion on this. After all surely the public are the ones that should have the opportunity to decide whether he showed poor judgement or not. I know what I think.

This afternoon in Waterford I am going out to canvass with the person that I believe to be the most suitable candidate for the post of President - Michael D Higgins. Labour's candidate Michael D has a history of campaigning for an inclusive,creative society where everyone is deemed equal. He has championed many important social causes over the years. He will also be well known for his contribution and love of the arts. Check out his website here where you will get more details of Michael's campaign. As this is a subject I will no doubt be returning to again I will leave the last word with Michael D himself when he said

My vision for the Presidency is built on a lifetime of service at home and abroad and on my experience as a courageous public representative with a record as an advocate for political, social, economic and cultural rights.
This is my starting point in seeking to create a Presidency for Ireland that will affirm and enhance our citizenship at home and our reputation in the world.

I would be interesting in hearing your thoughts on the current Presidential campaign.

New initiatives on literacy and numeracy welcomed

2011-07-15T21:57:00.001+01:00

The new initiatives announced by Minister for Education and Skills, Ruairí Quinn regarding numeracy and literacy are to be welcomed. This is an issue that has been ignored for far too long. The proposals aim to ensure that all children leaving school have mastered literacy and numeracyskills. I commend the Minister following the launch earlier this week of ‘Literacy and Numeracy for Learning and Life’;the National Literacyand Numeracy Strategy which was a key area for Labour in the Programme forGovernment. Literacyand numeracy skills are basic skills all children should have. Without thesenecessary skills, it is harder for children as they become young adults toparticipate fully in society.

Some initiatives under the Strategy arealready being implemented with circulars to be issued shortly to schoolsrequiring them to increase the allocated time on their school curriculum to 90minutes per day for literacy and 90 minutes per day for numeracy. Thisis a really positive initiative and I am sure that we will see vastimprovements in the areas of literacy and numeracy skills over the comingyears.”

Moredetails on the Strategy can be found at; http://www.education.ie/admin/servlet/blobservlet/lit_num_strat.pdf?language=EN&igstat=true.

Campaigning with Labour Party Presidential Candidate Michael D Higgins

2011-07-06T15:33:00.000+01:00

I had the pleasure of canvassing with Labour Party Presidential candidate Michael D. Higgins in Waterford at the weekend. Accompanied by Labour Party Chairperson Brian O'Shea we began our canvass on Saturday morning at the Waterford Tall Ships Festival where Michael D, a frequent visitor to Waterford, received a wonderful reception from the crowds attending the festival. I believe this is an election that Michael D Higgins can win and if the reception he received in Waterford is repeated around the country then this could be a successful campaign. Speaking to Michael D in Waterford on Saturday it is quite clear that the Party has a great candidate in Michael D but more important than that it is clear that he will make an exceptional President of this country and that he possesses the characteristics that are required for the office. As Michael D says himself:

The vision I am offering is that of a radically inclusive citizenship in a creative society worthy of a real republic. A creative society and inclusive citizenship are, I believe, the necessary foundations for a strong economy and for a Republic which can invite respect and engagement within the wider world.

This campaign is really only beginning now and whilst the initial polls are encouraging it is vital that we get the message out there that Michael D Higgins is the right person for the Aras. Just before he left Waterford Michael D told me that he is looking forward to returning to Waterford during the course of the campaign. We are also looking forward to that return visit Michael D!

Rachel Corrie and the Freedom Flotilla

2011-06-27T23:12:00.000+01:00

The news this week that the MV Saoirse, the Irish Ship, is bound for Gaza as part of the Freedom Flotilla has prompted me to repost a blog post I made a number of years ago about Rachel Corrie. Those who doubt the importance of this flotilla might read the following. Originally posted on the occasion of the fourth anniversary of the death of Rachel Corrie.

Next week March 16th is the fourth anniversary of the death of Rachel Corrie. Rachel was a 23 year old college student and human rights and peace activist from Olympia, Washington who on March 16, 2003 was run over and killed by an Israeli military bulldozer in Rafah, Gaza, while defending a Palestinian home from demolition. Rachel had been working with the International Solidarity Movement to protest Israeli actions in the occupied territories when she was killed in 2003. In a series of emails to her family Rachel described what she experienced in Gaza. These emails and letters were later published by The Guardian and provide a unique insight into life in that troubled region.
"My Name is Rachel Corrie" a play composed from Corrie's journals and e-mails from Gaza and directed by British actor Alan Rickman, was presented in London in early 2005. The play was also scheduled to open at the New York Theatre Workshop however due to political pressure, the play was “postponed indefinitely." The life and death of Rachel Corrie is also captured by Billy Bragg in 'The Lonesome Death of Rachel Corrie' which he wrote on 20th March 2006 as a tribute to Rachel. Our own Christy Moore also dedicated his 2005 album entitled "Burning Times" to the memory of Rachel Corrie.

I post this today because I believe that as we approach Rachel Corrie's fourth anniversary it is important to remember and pay tribute to a person who made the ultimate sacrifice for a cause she believed in. When I think of Rachel Corrie I am reminded of the words of my granduncle Peter O'Connor who fought with the International Brigade against General Franco and Facism in the Spanish Civil War and said;
"You have to believe in something - in a cause that will make the world a better place or you have wasted your life."

Rachel Corrie did just that.

120 jobs for Waterford and Belfast - RTÉ News

2011-06-06T17:48:00.000+01:00

120 jobs for Waterford and Belfast - RTE News

The news today that Dozens of jobs are to be provided by an American computer company in Waterford is to be welcomed. Mycroft Incorporated has announced that it is to establish an operations centre in Waterford which will employ 50 people. I believe that this decision to invest in Waterford is a huge vote of confidence in the region and in the local workforce. I have often been a critic of the IDA for not delivering for Waterford but on this occasion they seem to have delivered. Lets hope that this is the first of many such announcements.

Road improvements in Kilcohan and Kilbarry- Press Release

2011-05-30T14:30:00.000+01:00

Labour Party Councillor Seamus Ryan has welcomed the news that a substantial upgrade to the Kilbarry Road is planned to cover the area from the Outer Ring Road to the Ballybeg Drive junction. Included in the scheme is a new roundabout at the Ballybeg Drive / Lacken Road junction, resurfacing of the road, public lighting and footpaths. This scheme is due to commence later this summer and will greatly improve road access for the residents of Lacken Wood and other estates along the Kilbarry road. These improvements along with the completion of the refurbishment of the Old Tramore Road sees major improvements in the Waterford City South area of the city.

The Old Tramore Road improvements include a realignment and upgrade of the road from the Outer Ring Road to Avondale and includes public lighting, footpaths and cycle tracks.
According to Cllr Ryan these works will be welcomed by residents and businesses in the area and will greatly improve access and safety in the area. "I have worked with residents in both areas for the delivery of these improvements and I am pleased that the work is now complete or due to commence as is the case for the Kilbarry Road."

New Pedestrian Crossings welcomed

2011-05-23T14:56:00.000+01:00

The news that 2 new pedestrian Crossings will be completed by mid Autumn is to be welcomed. The new crossings are to be located at Ballybeg Drive near St Saviours GAA Club and on the Cleaboy Road. Both of these roads are particularly busy roads in the city with high volumes of traffic using the roads on a daily basis. It is also proposed to put a new roundabout at the top of Keane's Road in the city.
The crossing at Saint Saviours GAA Club will assist the many users of both the GAA Club and St Saviours Parish Centre while the crossing on the Cleaboy Road will also make the use of that road safer for pedestrians. All of these improvements will be welcomed by local residents in the area.

Letter to Minister for Health

2011-05-10T19:25:00.000+01:00

The following is a copy of a letter I sent today to Minister for Health James Reilly seeking clarification on the status of the building of the much promised new 50 bed unit at Saint Patrick's Hospital Waterford. I will keep you informed of any updates.

Dear Minister

I am writing to you in my capacity as a member of the Regional Health Forum South and a member of Waterford City Council. You will be aware that a couple of years ago St Brigid's Ward in St Patrick's Hospital Waterford was closed as part of the reconfiguration process. At that time the HSE committed to the building of a new 50 bed Community Nursing unit on the grounds of St Patrick's Hospital.
It is my understanding that some preparatory work was carried out by the HSE in relation to this project. It was also confirmed to me previously that the Project remains the first priority for Capital Development for Services Older People in HSE South. However I have since become aware that other Community Nursing Units have gone ahead in the HSE South Area. I am writing to you to ask you to clarify the position and to do all in your power to expedite this project.

Regards
Cllr Seamus Ryan
Member of HSE Regional Health Forum South

Campaign for St Patricks Hospital continues

2011-05-04T19:34:00.000+01:00

Recently I was interviewed on Deise AM by Billy McCarthy about the ongoing delay by the HSE to proceed with the promised 50 bed unit on the grounds of Saint Patricks Hospital in Waterford. Since that interview I have been contacted by quite a number of people who are pleased that this issue is once again being put on the agenda. I believe we owe it to the elderly of Waterford to campaign for this new 50 bed unit. The staff of Saint Patricks Hospital continue to provide a wonderful service for the people there and they also deserve to have this new unit built. At the time of the closure of Saint Brigids Ward in the hospital I raised this issue at a meeting of the HSE Regional Health Forum. At that time I was informed that the new 50 bed unit would be built. We are still waiting. I am determined to see this campaign to a successful conclusion and will continue to raise this with the HSE.

May Day - as relevant as ever

2011-04-30T16:44:00.000+01:00

Tomorrow we once again celebrate May Day, a day celebrated by workers across the world. It is an international day of solidarity, a day of celebration of the achievements and struggles of ordinary working people in this country and across the world.

This struggle continues today for a fair wage, safe conditions and a decent quality of life for ordinary working class people. Issues such as equality of access to decent health services, housing and accommodation, education and training, universal childcare and a safe and healthy environment still remain a priority for the Labour movement. It is my view, that, as trade unionists and members of the Labour movement in the tradition of Connolly and Larkin we have a very important role in this regard. We need to continue our fight across the many issues which are still denied to a sizeable number of our communities, who at the very least are entitled to, a basic decent quality of life.

As we celebrate another May Day we must continue this campaign for a fairer society for everyone. Happy May Day everyone.

More families driven into poverty | Irish Examiner

2011-04-28T22:59:00.000+01:00

More families driven into poverty | Irish Examiner

A worrying report on the effects of poverty in this country. Surely the key to ending poverty or at least reducing the effects is to get people back to work. The government must use the new jobs budget to kick start a jobs programme.

Government must act on huge pay hikes

2011-04-23T18:04:00.001+01:00

FF signed off on huge semi-state pay hikes | Irish Examiner

Whereas the current government cannot be held responsible for the huge pay hikes granted to the bosses of some Semi State agencies as reported here in this article it does have a responsibility to take action to reverse the situation. These decisions were taken at a time when the country was broke and public sector workers were being held up to ridicule by Fianna Fail and it should not have happened. It is now time for the government to address this and to cut the payments to these individuals. It is not acceptable to hear government Ministers tell us that it is not possible to reverse the huge pay increases granted by the previous administration. Where there is a will there is a way.

Make your mark on Census Day

2011-04-08T14:51:00.000+01:00

Just a reminder to everyone that Sunday next is Census Day. It is important to fill out your Census forms in order to allow informed decisions be made regarding our future. I received my form recently and an initial glance tells me that there is alot of detail in the form. However it shouldn't take too long to fill out.

Investment boost for Waterford - RTÉ News

2011-04-06T17:43:00.001+01:00

Jobs boost for Dublin, Waterford - RTÉ News

At last some good news on the job front for Waterford with Bausch and Lomb investing €70m in expanding its facility here. This is a major vote of confidence in the workers and management in Waterford. The investment will also include a major extension to the Waterford facility and will hopefully secure the future of this much valued company in Waterford. Employing 1,100 in Waterford Bausch and Lomb has been here for 30 years and has a highly trained and committed workforce. Let's hope that they will remain in Waterford for many more years to come.

Tall Ships Race 2011, Waterford Tall Ships Festival Ireland

2011-04-04T18:54:00.000+01:00

Tall Ships Race 2011, Waterford Tall Ships Festival Ireland

Check out this website for the Waterford Tall Ships Festival taking place from June 30th to July 2011. Over 70 tall ships will come to Waterford for this festival of sail, music, food and fun. Hope to see you here!!

Jimmy Carter criticises US Cuba policy

2011-04-01T20:31:00.000+01:00

Jimmy Carter criticises US Cuba policy | World News |Axisoflogic.com

Interesting article about the recent visit of former US President Jimmy Carter to Cuba. Former President Carter took the opportunity to criticise US policy on Cuba. Well worth a read.

"We should immediately end the trade embargo which the US has imposed on the people of Cuba," Mr Carter told a news conference before leaving Havana. He also said a US travel ban on American citizens visiting Cuba and keeping Cuba on a list of state sponsors of terrorism were counterproductive."

- Jimmy Carter on recent visit to Havana

Additional Gardai needed in Waterford

2011-03-29T19:38:00.000+01:00

It has become quite clear to me recently that the absence of sufficient numbers of visible and active community Gardai on the streets of Waterford is contributing to the rise of crime and anti-social behaviour in neighbourhoods throughout the city. This matter was raised at a recent meeting of the Waterford City South Branch of the Labour Party where members raised concerns about recent serious incidents of crime in the City. I have always held the belief that the greatest deterrent to crime is an increase in the number of Gardai in our communities and housing estates. We all want a city that is better - and more effectively policed. One of the great disappointments of modern Ireland is that despite improved living standards, so many of our communities are still plagued by crime and vandalism. Waterford is no worse than any other comparable city in Ireland and in fact is better than most however there is still an unacceptable level of crime and anti social behaviour in our city.

Without a doubt there is no single solution to this problem. The Gardai cannot solve these problems on their own but neither can individual communities. What is required is a partnership between the Gardai and local communities. What we need is to re-establish links between the Gardai and local communities. This can best achieved by increasing the number of Gardai in the city and by increasing the amount of Gardai on the beat in our housing estates and in our communities. Since I raised this issue earlier in the week I have been contacted by a large number of people who share my concerns and believe that the time has come for an increase in the number of Gardai in the city and the setting up of Garda substations.

Advice Centre continues

2011-03-26T14:25:00.000Z

I continue to hold my monthly Advice Centre in St Paul's Meeting Rooms in Lisduggan on the last Friday of every month at 6pm. If you think I can be of assistance in any matter please call in to see me. In case you are not sure where St Paul's meeting rooms are you will find them located between the Credit Union and St Paul's National School in Lisduggan Waterford.

I also hold a weekly Advice Centre in the Ballybeg Neighbourhood Office 61 Clonard Park Ballybeg Waterford every Tuesday at 12 noon. Again please do not hesitate to call in to see me if you think I might be able to help you in any way

New HSE redundancy deal must not hit frontline services

2011-03-18T19:14:00.000Z

Plans for new HSE redundancy deal - The Irish Times - Fri, Mar 18, 2011

Latest plans announced today by Minister for Health James Reilly to seek further voluntary redundancies by the Autumn must not result in a reduction in frontline staff. Around 2,000 staff left the health service under the previous voluntary redundancy scheme last year at a total cost of €101m to the state. That scheme was ill thought out and resulted in experienced staff leaving the organisation. I have seen this at first hand in our own Waterford Regional Hospital where experienced staff took the voluntary redundancy and were not replaced and also staff on long term leave were replaced resulting in frontline services coming under severe pressure. I have no doubt that there is scope for voluntary redundancies however this new scheme must be more focused and better thought out and must result in an improved service for the public.

Repossessions an early challenge for new Government

2011-03-10T21:49:00.000Z

Tenants face eviction over repossessions | Irish Examiner

The very real fear of eviction is something that hangs over many families in Ireland today. Indeed here in my own city of Waterford I have met with too many families struggling with mortgage arrears. In this article in todays Irish Examiner the housing agency Threshold have warned of the 500,00 people in the private sector that could be the victims a new wave of repossessions as receivers handling repossessed houses for the banks throw out tenants with little or no warning. Along with this the lending institutions themselves continue to put undue pressure on families struggling to pay mortgages through no fault of their own. I firmly believe that where people make an honest effort to repay their mortgage there should be no question of evictions. After all it was the taxpayers of this country that bailed out the very same banks and lending institutions. Who is looking out for the families I am meeting on a weekly basis now?

This will be an early challenge for the new government to deal with. The Labour Party identified this issue as a key problem prior to the election and set out a number of specific proposals to assist these very same families. I now look forward to the implementation of these policies.

Obama Orders Guantánamo Tribunals to Resume

2011-03-08T22:48:00.000Z

Obama Orders Guantánamo Tribunals to Resume

The decision by President Obama to keep Guantanamo prison open is very disappointing if true as reported here. One of the first promises he made on election as President of America was that he would end the detention of prisoners without trial in Guantanamo. Lets hope that there is a change of heart and that we will see the closure of Guantanamo soon.

Vote No 1 Cllr Seamus Ryan Labour Party Candidate for Waterford

2011-02-06T14:49:00.000Z

The country needs strong, decisive and honest political leadership to steer us out of these difficult times. Jobs and enterprise are key to this. Getting people back to work will be top of my agenda - get credit flowing again, get a jobs and apprenticeship programme in place and provide training opportunities. Families, the elderly, children, workers the unemployed and the marginalised must be protected. Safeguarding our education and health services, making our streets safer and fostering community spirit are crucial. We must rid the country of cronyism and put people first. My core values and those of the Labour Party are fairness, community and equality.

It has been my pleasure to work closely with Brian O’Shea TD on behalf of the people of Waterford and I am asking you for the opportunity to continue this work. Please feel free to contact me at 087 6805314 or email me at sryan1@ireland.com

- Seamus

I am asking for your No. 1 Vote.

Vote No 1 Cllr Seamus Ryan Labour Party Candidate for Waterford

2011-01-26T16:11:00.000Z

Welfare backlog unacceptable and must be addressed

2011-01-15T13:59:00.000Z

Delays in processing welfare applications continue to cause great hardship for people in Waterford and across the country. Information made available to Labour Party spokesperson Roisin Shortall show considerable delays in processing applications for nearly all social welfare applications. Applications for Disability Allowance are taking an average of 18 weeks, according to the latest information from the Department of Social Protection. The Department outlined other average waiting times such as:

* Invalidity Pension - 16 weeks

* One Parent Family Payment - 15 weeks

* Widows Pension (Non-Contributory) - 12 weeks

* Carer's Allowance - 11 weeks

* Carer's Benefit - 11 weeks

* Family Income Supplement - 10 weeks

* State Pension (Non-Contributory) - 10 weeks

The long waiting times are particularly long where a disability has to be assessed and waiting times for these categories are getting worse. The average waiting time for Invalidity Pension was 12 weeks in August, now it's 16. Disability Allowance was 13 weeks in August, now it's 18. Carer's Allowance was eight weeks in August, now it's 11.

It is obvious that waiting times are worst where the decision involves the assessment of medical evidence. One would have to question if the Department has enough medical officers to deal with the amount of such claims.

In many cases, the people applying for assistance are penniless. The long waiting period puts tremendous strain on such families who often have to rely on the generosity of charities and/or their local community welfare officer to get by. In many cases they are forced to borrow from family, friends and moneylenders. These waiting times are simply unacceptable, and the Government needs to move more personnel from over-staffed Departments into the Department of Social Protection to deal with them.

Time to get back to dealing with the real issues

2011-01-13T17:58:00.000Z

What a load of hot air and waffle we are listening to over the last couple of weeks from Cowen and Co. At a time when over 440,000 are unemployed and emigration firmly back on the agenda for many people the political debate seems to be all about what was said on a golf course!! Over the last two weeks the political debate in Dail Eireann has moved away from the important issues. Issues such as unemployment, emigration, health all have been sidelined while people continue to suffer and struggle. It is time now for everyone to get back to the issues that really matter.

IDA Ireland's six US offices cost €4.1m to run in 2007

2010-12-30T16:56:00.000Z

IDA Ireland's six US offices cost €4.1m to run in 2007

This interesting article in a recent edition of the Sunday Tribune started me thinking as to value for money and the IDA.

Merry Christmas and A Happy New Year

2010-12-23T19:16:00.000Z

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to everyone

Labour Party remain opposed to Privatisation

2010-12-21T20:41:00.000Z

Last night's meeting of Waterford City Council was one of the most disappointing meetings I have attended in my time on the Council. At this meeting Waterford City Council members voted to privatise our bin collection on a vote of 8 to 7. Needless to say that I voted against this proposal and was proud to so. As a Labour Party member and Socialist I believe strongly in the public service and its ability to deliver a quality and efficient service. However as a result of this decision we will now see at least two private operators vying for the business of waste collection in the city.

In my contribution to the debate last night I pointed out the dangers of "cherrypicking" by private operators where the focus could be put on the most profitable routes and the most profitable customers. I also had a major concern regarding the longterm future of our current waiver system. Those who supported the privatisation have, in my opinion, abandoned those currently receiving waivers from the Council as I believe that the waiver system will come under pressure in the long term Another issue I raised was the issue of loyalty to our existing 11,000 customers who despite agressive marketing by the current private operator decided to remain with the City Council service. However one of the most compelling issues was also the future of the staff employed in the refuse collection service. This decision will only hasten the race to the bottom regarding pay and conditions of workers in this city and has played into the hands of those who want to continue along this route. I would also like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to the Waterford City Council workers who provide an excellent refuse service in this city over the years.

The Labour Party have campaigned over many years against privatisation of public services and I was proud to support this position at last nights meeting. In my opinion this Council and those who supported privatisation will come to regret this decision in the years to come. Unfortunately the damage is now done.

Unemployment hits hard in Waterford

2010-12-02T14:08:00.000Z

Latest figures available from the CSO show that there are now 13,585 people signing on in the Waterford with 11,313 in the city and 2,272 in Dungarvan. Whereas these figures may show a slight decrease from the previous month they do not take into account those people who have emigrated from this country because they are unable to find work. Neither do these figures take into account the human story behind each of these figures. I am meeting people in Waterford on a daily basis who are suffering because of the economic policies of this government. There is an increasing number of people in Waterford who are struggling to pay bills, pay their mortgage or indeed put food on the table at home. It is important though that we are not entirely negative and provide hope for people who have lost their jobs over the last couple of years. One important measure that would provide much needed credit for the Small Medium Enterprise Sector and thereby support job creation in this sector is the setting up of a Strategic Investment Bank as proposed by the Labour Party. This is just one in a series of practical proposals put forward by the Labour Party which can be read here

The sting of a dying wasp

2010-11-24T21:06:00.000Z

The decision by the government to cut the minimum wage must surely go down as one of the most mean spirited cuts in recent times. With only 3% of the workforce earning minimum wage I question the value to the economy of cutting the minimum wage from €8.65 to €7.65 per hour. But such a cut will have a very significant effect on the tens of thousands of workers who are earning this amount each week. The people that I meet on a regular basis who are currently earning minimum wage will struggle even further with this cut. The Labour Party is opposed to any cut in the minimum wage and believe it is only being done for purely ideological reasons by a failed government. Remember the saying "Beware of the sting of a dying wasp"

Burma releases Aung San Suu Kyi

2010-11-13T22:02:00.000Z

Burma releases Aung San Suu Kyi · TheJournal.ie

Today's news of the release of pro democracy campaigner and Nobel Prize winner Aung San Suu Kyi is to be welcomed. Suu Kyi has spent 15 of the last 20 years under arrest in Burma. In 1990 her party the National League for Democracy won a majority in the General Election however the military refused to hand over power and placed Suu Kyi under house arrest. Now the latest election was won by the government party in a result which was condemned by international observers. Todays release is only the first step in bringing democracy to Burma and it is important that the International community increases the pressure on the military junta to restore full democracy to this country.

Budget 2010 the most feared of them all?

2010-11-04T18:51:00.000Z

A lot has been said and written about the forthcoming Budget. Without a doubt it will be the harshest budget for a number of years. Despite the usual groups making their pre budget submissions all the indications are for a budget with tax increases and expenditure cuts that will hit families extremely hard.

Organisations such as St Vincent de Paul, The Carers Association and Focus Ireland always make their annual budget submission with a certain degree of expectation. However I suspect that this year will be different. The abolition of the Combat Poverty Agency a couple of years ago was surely the writing on the wall. In one act the government removed a strong voice for the marginalised in society. We should have known what was coming down the tracks once that happened. Over the coming weeks I will be posting on the Budget and the hopes and expectations of the public as I meet them.

Don't get mad get even - Voter Registration

2010-10-28T14:29:00.000+01:00

A quick reminder for Voter Registration. If you are not registered to vote or have moved address, you have until November 25th to make a correction to your details or to have your name included on the register. I encourage you to remind friends and family of this. You can check the register on http://www.checktheregister.ie/. Make sure your voice is heard!

For those of you living in Waterford you can also contact Waterford City Council or Waterford County Council.

Launch of EnfoPoint at Waterford Municipal Library

2010-10-22T20:20:00.002+01:00

Enfopoint

Yesterday I had the pleasure of launching Enfopoint at Waterford Municipal Library. The launch was also attended by environmentalist and artist Don Conroy who is well known for work in promoting the environment with school children. School children from St Declans NS and St John of Gods NS were present and took part in a workshop with Don in the Library yesterday also. The Enfopoint service is a database of environmental information and can be accessed at Waterford Municipal Library. I would highly recommend that you visit the library and see it for yourself.

Fuel Poverty hitting hard in Waterford

2010-10-16T20:13:00.001+01:00

It has been estimated that around 60,000 Irish households live in persistent fuel poverty and a further 160,000 or so experience intermittent fuel poverty. There is deep concern over the high levels of disconnections in both electricity and gas. Labour is calling on the government to live up to its promise on Fuel Poverty.

The alarming increase in disconnections of approximately 2,500 a month is a matter of grave concern. It is vital that there is a response to ensure that people have essential services such as electricity and gas in their homes. Otherwise, there are serious implications for the health and safety of families. I am meeting many people in Waterford including an increasing number of elderly who are extremely worried about how they are going to heat their homes this Winter. These people are looking to government to ensure that sufficient supports will be put in place this Winter.

In their Programme for Government, Fianna Fáil and the Greens promised to publish a Fuel Poverty Strategy ‘as a matter of urgency’. Indeed there was a commitment made that it would published ‘by the end of 2009'. “Needless to say, that deadline has come and gone without any sign of a strategy, and in the meantime; electricity prices have increased dramatically; disconnections have increased alarmingly; and millions of euro earmarked for the crucial insulation schemes in 2009 was handed back, unspent, to the Department of Finance.

In addition, we now see where the Energy Regulator, CER is trying to force a rebranding on ESB and Bord Gais, an exercise that will cost Bord Gáis alone an estimated €40 million. Of course, it is the customers of these companies who will ultimately pay, at a time when they are already dealing with a 5 per cent Public Service Obligation (PSO) Levy being slapped on their energy bills. The Energy Regulator needs to see sense and to scrap this daft plan. It is now in the hands of the government to ensure that our elderly will not have to suffer over the coming months.

Over to you Minister!!

E Voting to be scrapped - finally

2010-10-06T22:24:00.000+01:00

RTÉ News: €51m e-voting machines to be disposed of

At last the penny has dropped. The only problem is that the government have wasted €51m in a failed system that nobody wanted or asked for. What could we have done with with this €51m. Here in Waterford we could have built the new St Patricks hospital or the new Hospice on the grounds of Waterford Regional Hospital. Yet despite being told otherwise by experts at the time the government persisted with this waste of a scheme. I have written about this many times before and it gives me no pleasure to say that I was right on this occasion.

Dramatic political shifts shown by TV3/Millward Brown poll - TV3

2010-09-23T19:24:00.000+01:00

Dramatic political shifts shown by TV3/Millward Brown poll - TV3

The results of the TV3/Millward Brown poll published tonight show that a Labour led government is now a real possibility. This poll show considerable gains being made by the party with the party vote increasing by 16% to 35% overall. However I am in politics long enough and seen enough polls to know that it is nothing more than that - a poll. Yet all of us involved in the Labour movement must be heartened to see these figures.

There is a lot of work to be done between now and the next General Election to transfer these poll results into real seats. As a Party we cannot be just about changing the faces around the cabinet table in government. We must change the direction and priority of government and bring the government back to the people. The key priority for any Labour government must be the creation and retention of jobs. Unemployment is causing so many problems in our society today as people struggle to make ends meet. These are the people I am meeting on a daily basis here in Waterford and these are the people that are reflected in the figures we see in this poll. People are looking for change and are demanding leadership. Eamonn Gilmore and the Labour Party will provide that change we need.

Anger over lack of support for carers | Munster Express Online

2010-09-17T22:08:00.000+01:00

Anger over lack of support for carers | Munster Express Online

The Munster Express carried a report this week of my motion which was passed by Waterford City Council calling on the government to publish the promised Carers Strategy. I have met and continue to meet many Carers in Waterford who continue to provide much needed care for their loved ones. The Carers Strategy which was promised by the government was to set out a range of measures and support for Carers. The government have now indicated that due to the financial downturn it will not now be publishing the Carers Strategy. The Carers Association continue to provide support for our Carers and are worthy of our support. We must continue to campaign and support our Carers until a full range of supports are put in place.

Everyone has a right to a place they can call home

2010-09-12T19:11:00.001+01:00

RTÉ News: Stark warning over homelessness
Focus Ireland have warned of a pending homelessness crisis in Ireland. We need to take heed of this warning and the government need to put policies in place to combat homelessness in Ireland. With all this talk surrounding the banking crisis there is a danger that the focus will move away from those on the margins in our society. We must not allow this to happen. Homelessness is one of the many consequences of the reckless policies followed by this government over the last ten to fifteen years. With over 5,000 people now homeless in Ireland and over 100,000 now on our social housing waiting lists it is essential that the issue is put to the top of our political agenda.

The Waterford Harvest Festival 2010

2010-09-07T12:05:00.000+01:00

The Waterford Harvest Festival 2010 intends to bring together, involve and educate people/community in the appreciation of good, clean, fair food, whilst also showcasing all the gastronomic delights the region has to offer. The Festival will celebrate a city surrounded by such rich resources as The Bread Basket, The Golden Vale and The Atlantic Ocean. The festival is commencing this weekend and will continue for 10 days when it is expected that thousands of visitors will descend on the city for what will be a wonderful festival. One of the highlights will be Amazing Grazing when Waterford’s South Quay will close for traffic and be transformed into a giant food marketplace. I hope you can join us for what will be a great celebration.

Tipperary new All Ireland Champions

2010-09-05T17:57:00.000+01:00

RTÉ Sport: GAA - Tipperary 4-17 Kilkenny 1-18

Great win for Tipperary today. Great game with both sides giving their all. The Tipperary defence were really on top and held Kilkenny forwards to just one goal. The bar has been raised once again for the rest of us. Also it was a great performance by referee Waterford man Michael Wadding and his team of officials. Well done Michael!!

Government have lost the plot

2010-08-24T22:05:00.000+01:00

RTÉ News: Greens not out to 'tax and hurt'

This report on the decision by government that motorists who use commercial vehicles for private use must pay additional motor tax is proof that this government has lost touch with the electorate. People just cannot afford to pay any additional tax in whatever form the government want to introduce. The government must drop this ridiculous proposal now. As Labour Party spokesperson Liz McManus stated today

"It is completely unrealistic to ask for assurances from people like farmers, small business owners and trades people, that they will never, under any circumstances, use their vehicle for a non-commercial purposes."

Campaign for University of the South East to the fore once again

2010-08-22T21:58:00.000+01:00

The delay in publishing the Hunt Report on Higher Education has led to a drip feed of leaks as to what is contained in this very important document. In fact it is not an exaggeration to say that the Hunt Report will determine Higher Education in Ireland over the next 20 years or so. I was a member of the Governing Body of Waterford Institute of Technology that submitted an application for the upgrading of Waterford Institute of Technology to University of the South East. This application was made based on sound educational , economical and social reasons. The case for Waterford stands up under all the criteria set out by the government.

I mention all of this now because there is growing concern that the strategy established under Dr Hunt will recommend the upgrading of all or most of the Institutes of Technology to Technological Universities. This should be unacceptable to all in Waterford and the South East. Waterford is the only gateway city in the country without a university. Dublin, Cork, Limerick and Galway can all boast an Institute of Technology and a University. All of this is important for a number of reasons not least equality of access to University education for our people. The most important issue on our agenda at the moment must be the creation of jobs. I believe that the development of a University here in Waterford will help provide the conditions for job creation. It will allow us attract extra funding for research and development which is also essential for attracting industry and encouraging entrepreneurship. Anything less than the upgrading of Waterford Institute of Technology to University is unacceptable.

RTÉ News: Warning that 4,000 finance jobs are at risk

2010-08-17T16:53:00.000+01:00

RTÉ News: Warning that 4,000 finance jobs are at risk

Reports of further job losses are evidence that the government has no firm jobs policy. Despite nearly daily announcements of job losses in all parts of the country we are still awaiting firm proposals on the creation and retention of jobs from the government. Rather than waiting for government the Labour Party has put forward its own proposals in a number of policy documents including Jobs and Recovery and Investing in our Future.

Your comments on these policy documents would be very welcome.

RTÉ News: Ballinasloe protest against HSE cuts

2010-08-17T11:12:00.000+01:00

RTÉ News: Ballinasloe protest against HSE cuts - This account of over 8,000 people taking to the streets in Ballinasloe over planned hospital cuts got me thinking as to whether we are too quiet here in Ireland with our response to the current series of cutbacks. The recent announcement of a hike in the price of electricity is just one in a series of price increases. As we approach budget 2010 I have no doubt that the government will once again target the low paid and those on social welfare for further cuts in payments. It will be too late to protest then!!

Three All-Ireland Senior Titles for Waterford | Munster Express Online

2010-07-22T21:50:00.001+01:00

Three All-Ireland Senior Titles for Waterford | Munster Express Online

Congratulations to Kelly Proper, Niamh Whelan and Kate Veale on winning three All Ireland Senior Titles for Waterford. Athletics has always been strong in Waterford with some great work being done in the various Athletic clubs throughout the City and County. Well done everyone

200,000 may emigrate by 2015 - ESRI

2010-07-21T21:36:00.000+01:00

RTÉ News: 200,000 may emigrate by 2015 - ESRI

This report by RTE News on the ESRI report makes for disturbing reading. Most of us will remember the dark days of the 1980's when many Irish people were forced to emigrate. It seems we are now heading towards that situation again after a decade of economic mismanagement by this failed government. The failure to come up with a jobs policy that is sustainable and rooted in an economy that can compete on the world stage has condemned many young people to emigration. Despite repeated claims by government that we are seeing the beginnings of an economic recovery the evidence does not support this and i have already met many young people that have already left or planning to leave in search of work and an improved life. This is the legacy of 13 years of failed government.

Back to School Costs hitting Waterford families hard

2010-07-19T22:13:00.000+01:00

At this time of the year every year I am contacted by people who are concerned about the ever increasing back to school costs. It is hardly surprising that this year the numbers seeking information and help has increased greatly. With the huge increase in unemployment in Waterford City and County and with people experiencing other financial difficulties such as mortgage repayments it is no wonder that they are worried about back to school costs. I hope that the following may be helpful to you as you try to come to terms with these back to school costs.

BACK TO SCHOOL CLOTHING AND FOOTWEAR ALLOWANCE
If you are in receipt of :
• A social welfare payment a Health Service Executive payment,
• You are taking part in an approved employment scheme, or a recognised education or
training course.
You may be eligible to apply for assistance with Back to School costs.
The rate pate per child under 11 years is ?200 and this rises to ?305 for each child aged
between 12-17.
You should Apply NOW.
Simply text FORM BTSCFA to 51909 followed by your name and address.
Application forms are available online at: www.welfare.ie/EN/Forms/Documents/bscfa.pdf

SCHOOL BOOK GRANT SCHEME
A grant scheme is available for students in schools to help with the cost of school books.
The scheme is mainly aimed at pupils from low-income families and those experiencing
financial hardship. You should contact your child's school principal for further details.

EXEMPTION FROM STATE EXAMINATION FEES
If your child is sitting the Leaving or Junior Certificate in 2011 and you are in receipt of a
Medical card then you are exempt from paying examination fees. Contact the State
Examinations Commission, Cornamaddy, Athlone, Co Westmeath. Tel: 090-644 2700.

Please do not hesitate to contact me if I can be of any assistance to you.

No more cutbacks Minister

2010-07-11T13:58:00.000+01:00

This week thousands of people took to the streets to protest against ongoing cutbacks in funding for those with disabilities. Labour leader Eamon Gilmore this week highlighted the needs of those people with disabilities by raising the issue in the Dail. At a time when bankers and developers are being bailed out to the tunes of billions of Euros cost to the taxpayer it is shameful that those with disability must take to the streets in order to protect their services. The Irish Examiner summed it up in an editorial this week when it said Disability Cuts - No defence on any grounds

Minister must address Speech and Language Therapy deficit in Waterford

2010-06-24T20:25:00.000+01:00

During the week I was contacted by a number of parents concerned about the current situation regarding the deficit in the Speech and Language Therapy for Children in Waterford. As a result I have tabled the following motion on behalf of myself and my Labour Party Colleagues Cllr Pat Hayes and Cllr Jack Walsh for the next meeting of Waterford City Council . We often hear that a nation will be judged by how it treats its young and its elderly. Well in this case the government are failing a group of children who require this service in their formative years. This issue is also being pursued by Deputy Brian O'Shea in the Dail.

"That Waterford City Council call on the MInister for Health and Children to ensure that the 94 pupils of St. Joseph's Special School, Parnell Street, Waterford and St. Martin's Special School, Kilcohan, Waterford together with the children who will be enrolled in September and who need assessment will have a full Speech and Therapy Service".

This is a very serious issue that needs to be addressed by the HSE and the Minister for Health immediately. Both of these schools provide an excellent and much needed service that needs to be resourced sufficiently to allow them to continue to provide this service.

Ballybeg Community Fight back

2010-06-17T22:22:00.001+01:00

Last night I attended a public meeting in Cillbarra Community Hall in Ballybeg Waterford. This meeting was called by the Ballybeg Community Development Project to highlight the government’s proposals regarding the management of these projects. The high regard that the people of Ballybeg have for the services and staff of the project was evident by the very high attendance at the meeting. There must have been over two hundred people in the hall who were addressed by Community Workers, volunteers and residents of the area as well as elected representatives. The campaign to maintain control of these local facilities with local residents has been ongoing now for some time however the mood at last nights meeting was one of anger and disbelief that the government would try to dismantle something that has delivered for the people of the area.

In Waterford it is proposed to transfer the management and ownership of the project to Waterford Area Partnership where I have no doubt the local input to the running of these services will be diluted. I also believe that the Partnership does valuable work in its own right but equally I believe that the interests of the community would be best served by maintaining the management of the services with the local voluntary management committees made up of members of the Ballybeg Community. I would urge the government to return to meaningful negotiations with local communities and to restore to the previous model.

As Labour Party TD Ciaran Lynch told the Oireachtas Committee on the matter “The transfer of CDP structures into the area partnership structures will result in local community assets and resources being dismantled and appropriated."

He went on to say “However, whatever changes this sector must undergo, the end outcome must be that the volunteer boards and their unique local community driven approach, survive intact. Ultimately it must be ensured that the two decades plus of development work must be valued and recognised and not be thrown out in the cold.”

The people of Ballybeg deserve to be supported by us all in this campaign.

Majority of voters want election in 2010

2010-06-12T14:42:00.000+01:00

RTÉ News: Majority of voters want election in 2010

RTE reporting on the second part of the Irish Times poll where members of the public were indicated that their preference was for an election this year. What are the odds that Cowen will give the public want they so obviously want.

New political landscape

2010-06-12T08:26:00.000+01:00

I realised things had changed this week when people that never spoke politics to me started to approach me to discuss nothing else but politics. It is amazing what the effect an opinion poll can have on peoples perception of a political party. These very same people who previously did not want to discuss politics with me are now talking about the Labour Party and Eamon Gilmore in terms of government. The challenge for us in the Labour Party is to convert that poll result into votes.

Those who are hurting most from this poll are not Fianna Fail but Fine Gael as they consistently fail to capitalise on the collapse in support of Fianna Fail. They have already turned their anger on us in the Labour Party as they finally realise that the overall majority they were talking of some months ago is now highly unlikely. The line coming out from Fine Gael now is that the Labour Party are a party of protest with no policies as Richard Bruton stated on the Tonight with Vincent Browne show during the week.. Well I hope we continue to be a party of protest, protesting against the cuts to communities, the cuts to social welfare and the failure to protect employment. But we are more than just that we are also a party of policy. Did you know that since the last election in 2007 the Labour Party has published nearly 50 policy documents covering areas such as Jobs and Recovery, Tourism, Education and Universal Health Insurance. So the next time someone says to you that the Labour Party has no policies do as I did this week refer them to the Labour Party website where they will find details of all of these policies.

I have also been around in politics long enough to know that the only poll that counts is the one on election day but Labour Party supporters are entitled to feel a little chuffed with the results of this weeks poll. We must work now to make sure that it is not just a once off.

Communities under attack

2010-05-28T15:40:00.000+01:00

The current attack on the community and voluntary sector by the government has the potential to have a long lasting detrimental effect on local communities. Here in Waterford there are a number of well established and successful projects in operation that continue to respond to the needs of local communities. For example the Ballybeg Community Development Project and the Larchville / Lisduggan Community Development Project have succeeded in providing much needed services for residents in these areas. The success of these projects is well documented both locally and nationally. One of the key factors that has led to the success of these project has been that they are run by locals for locals. The management teams of these projects are made up of local people who are very aware of the needs of the local communities.

New proposals by government will change all that and will remove the local management boards from the running of these projects. This will be a retrograde step in my opinion and should be resisted. The issue has been taken up Labour Party spokesperson Jack Wall TD. If you are concerned about this issue you should contact your local T.D.

Unacceptable waste of public money

2010-05-15T21:47:00.000+01:00

Unacceptable waste of public money. I raised this at recent meeting of Waterford City Council.

ESB delay cost taxpayers €2 million | Munster Express Online

Britain goes to the Polls

2010-05-06T10:07:00.000+01:00

Today is D-Day for voters in Britain as they go to the polls to elect a new government. The campaign was a very interesting one with the emergence of Nick Clegg, leader of the Liberal Democrats, as an alternative following the three way leaders debate. It really is a defining moment for Britain as they seem set to replace Labour with a Conservative led government. If this was to happen I believe we will see Britain make a distinct move to the right resulting in a widening of the gap between the rich and the poor and a deterioration in public services. Whereas I do not always agree with Gordon Brown particularly in the area of foreign policy I do believe that the interests of ordinary working class people are best served by voting Labour whether that is in Britain or here in Ireland. Voting continues until 10pm when counting will begin immediately.

Britain shows us how to run leaders' debates

2010-04-27T14:19:00.000+01:00

In the run up to our General Election it is essential that the televised leaders debate is a three way debate including Labour Party leader Eamon Gilmore. This excellent article in last weekends Sunday Tribune puts the case for such a debate.

Britain shows us how to run leaders' debates

Domestic Water Charges an unjust tax

2010-04-25T20:37:00.000+01:00

A number of people have asked me during the week for the Labour Party position on Water Charges. At last weeks conference the Party reaffirmed its opposition this unjust tax and committed itself to removing this tax when it is brought in by the current government. The issue of the introduction of domestic water charges has always been controversial in this country. It was a previous Labour Party minister Brendan Howlin TD who removed Water Charges when Labour were previously in government. This issue will be one of many issues that a possible Labour / Fine Gael coalition will have to agree on prior to forming a government. Fine Gael have come out in support of this extra tax on householders at a time when many families are struggling to make ends meet or to pay the mortgage. The last thing these families need is another tax. This is an issue that undoubtedly will be the subject of many political debates over the coming months - a debate I welcome.

Gilmore for Taoiseach - why not?

2010-04-22T20:28:00.001+01:00

Much has been made of the call made by Labour Party delegates for "Gilmore for Taoiseach" at last weekends Labour Party conference. As I travelled home from Galway at the weekend with a number of delegates we discussed this idea. Is it really as far fetched as some right wing political commentators and right wing political parties would have us all believe? The aim of any political party must be to get into power so that it can implement its policies in government for the benefit of all. In many respects there is not much of a difference between the policies of Fianna Fail and Fine Gael. Eamon Gilmore has made it quite clear to both of these parties that the Labour Party is not interested in propping up a government that is not committed to changing the direction that this country is now heading. There is now a clear option for voters who want to see a change not only in government but in the type of society we all live in.

With the Labour Party committed to running extra candidates people can now elect a government that is led by the Labour Party and with Eamon Gilmore as Taoiseach. The election may be two months or two years away but it is now down to all of us in the Labour Party to put forward a credible set of policies that will convince the public to vote an unprecedented number of Labour Party TD's into a government led by Eamon. It is only by doing so that we can change the direction this country is going.

Irish Blog awards shortlist

2010-04-12T13:06:00.000+01:00

I was delighted to learn that I was shortlisted for Best Blog of a Politician in the recent Irish Blog Awards along with my Labour Party colleagues Joanna Tuffy TD and Senator Dominic Hannigan. When I began this Blog in 2006 political blogging was in its infancy in this country. Labour Party politicians have always been to the fore in this area and indeed have led the way in political blogging in this country. In fact politicians are usually adept at using social networking sites such as Twitter, Facebook or Blogging for getting their message across. My Waterford City Council colleagues Cllr Mary Roche and Cllr David Cullinane have also been blogging for some time and I am sure more will follow. Congratulations to Cllr Laura McGonigle who won the overall award for Best Blog of a Politican at the Awards ceremony.

Labour head to Galway

2010-04-08T15:04:00.006+01:00

All roads lead to Galway for the Labour Party Annual conference which takes place on April 16th - April 18th. As this could be the last conference prior to a general election it will provide an important platform for the Labour Party to put forward its vision and policies for a more just and equal Ireland. I believe people are crying out for real and honest leadership and I believe that this leadership can be provided by Eamon Gilmore and the Labour Party. I hope to post in greater detail about the conference and the motions in front of conference closer to the event.

Rachel Corrie the fight for justice goes on

2010-03-17T00:59:00.007Z

Today I want to repeat a post I made 3 years ago about Rachel Corrie a young American peace activist who was killed by an Israeli military bulldozer in Gaza. The reason I want to repeat this post is that according to Democracy Now! the family of Rachel Corrie have taken a case against the Israeli government this week. While the struggle for a just solution goes on in Gaza her story should be told. This is what I wrote here on March 10th 2007.

"Next week March 16th is the fourth anniversary of the death of Rachel Corrie. Rachel was a 23 year old college student and human rights and peace activist from Olympia, Washington who on March 16, 2003 was run over and killed by an Israeli military bulldozer in Rafah, Gaza, while defending a Palestinian home from demolition. Rachel had been working with the International Solidarity Movement to protest Israeli actions in the occupied territories when she was killed in 2003. In a series of emails to her family Rachel described what she experienced in Gaza. These emails and letters were later published by The Guardian and provide a unique insight into life in that troubled region.

"My Name is Rachel Corrie" a play composed from Corrie's journals and e-mails from Gaza and directed by British actor Alan Rickman, was presented in London in early 2005. The play was also scheduled to open at the New York Theatre Workshop however due to political pressure, the play was “postponed indefinitely." The life and death of Rachel Corrie is also captured by Billy Bragg in 'The Lonesome Death of Rachel Corrie' which he wrote on 20th March 2006 as a tribute to Rachel. Our own Christy Moore also dedicated his 2005 album entitled "Burning Times" to the memory of Rachel Corrie.

I post this today because I believe that as we approach Rachel Corrie's fourth anniversary it is important to remember and pay tribute to a person who made the ultimate sacrifice for a cause she believed in. When I think of Rachel Corrie I am reminded of the words of my granduncle Peter O'Connor who fought with the International Brigade against General Franco and Facism in the Spanish Civil War and said;

"You have to believe in something - in a cause that will make the world a better place or you have wasted your life."

Rachel Corrie did just that."

Fishermen blast downgrading of Waterford Coastguard services | IOL

2010-03-17T00:27:00.000Z

Recent reports of the downgrading of the Waterford Coastguard services has met with anger all along the South Eastern coast and beyond. There seems to be no logic to this decision and it is clear that this is being done as a cost cutting measure. Labour Party TD Brian O'Shea highlighted this decision in the media and has called for the decision to be reversed immediately. This is a call I fully support and a campaign we must all support.

Fishermen blast downgrading of Waterford Coastguard services | IOL

Scourge of House repossessions

2010-03-11T14:33:00.000Z

Labour City Councillor calls for a two year moratorium on house repossessions - Report by WLRFm on my motion to last Monday nights meeting of Waterford City Council calling on the government to introduce an immediate moratorium on the scourge of House Repossessions.

Its about the economy - or at least it used to be.

2010-02-26T00:00:00.002Z

The recent shenanigans in the Dail with Ministers O'Dea and Sargent resigning from their posts have only succeeded in diverting attention away from the important issues. Quite frankly I am not particularly interested in how or why these people have resigned from their positions. I am more concerned with the lack of focus on issues such as jobs, the economy and house repossessions. The government continuously fail to provide leadership and direction as they move from crisis to crisis.

The people I meet on a daily basis are not particularly concerned about Willie O'Deaor Trevor Sargent but rather are looking for a jobs strategy or a policy on dealing with the increasing number of house repossessions. We are in the middle of a jobs crisis here in Waterford with one of the highest rates of unemployment in the country and all the social problems that are associated with that yet there is no strategy coming from government. Forget about your internal party rows and provide us with real leadership Taoiseach!!

Waterford Regional Hospital Budget to be cut again

2010-02-13T15:33:00.000Z

At last Thursdays meeting of the Regional Health Forum in Cork details of the HSE Service Plan for 2010 was announced. The Service Plan outlines how the HSE intends to spend its €14billion budget for the coming year. Of that €14 billion nearly €2billion has been allocated to the HSE South area which includes the delivery of health services in Waterford and the South East. At the meeting I questioned the proposed cuts in expenditure in the budget for Waterford Regional Hospital. The budget for the Regional Hospital is €129 million which is a cut of €8million excluding pay and around €12million in total. The Plan however was short on the detail of how those cuts will be achieved.
I would argue that you cannot reduce the budget of a hospital by that amount without having a detrimental effect on patient care. The quality of the staff both medical and non medical in WRH is beyond question however if the HSE and the government continue to cut funding it will only make their job a more difficult one. This is something that won't be going away and it is an issue I will be monitoring very closely over the next few months.

The Service Plan wasn't all bad news for Waterford Regional Hospital however with the welcome announcement of the extension of the emergency department at the hospital. Anyone that visits or works in the emergency department of the hospital will welcome this news. This extended emergency department will serve the needs of the people of the South East on completion.

Additional Roads funding for Waterford now a must

2010-01-23T21:18:00.000Z

I spent most of today meeting with residents and examining the conditions of the roads and footpaths throughout Waterford City South I suppose I am not surprised at the current deplorable condition of our roads and footpaths in Waterford City consisdering the drastic cuts made by the government in the roads budget of Waterford City Council over the past year and indications are that the budget is to be cut even further this year. Main roads in the area such as the Old Tramore Road, Ballycashin Hill and the Kilbarry Road have quite rightly been highlighted because of their poor condition. Today I was in the Lisduggan and Larchville area of the city where it is quite clear that serious road resurfacing needs to be carried out immediately. I met one lady who showed me major potholes near her home. There is a serious health and safety issue here.

However the problem is even greater than this. Right throughout Waterford City our roads and footpaths have become dangerous with major deterioration and major potholes the order of the day. Last week I called on the Minister and the government to provide emergency funding to Waterford City Council to allow the necessary emergency works to be carried out. What I saw today has only reinforced my opinion that this must happen immediately.

Emergency funding needed for Waterford City Roads

2010-01-17T14:26:00.000Z

Following the recent snow and ice there has been a serious deterioration in the quality of some of the roads in the city. I made the call this week for emergency funding to be made available to Waterford City Council to allow for essential road repairs to be carried out on these roads. Figures made available to me last week show that our roads budget was cut drastically by the government in the last year. The original allocation to the City Council for roads in 2009 was €2,168,000. This figure was slashed to €1,335,500 by the government in the Budget last April.

We are now seeing the result of these cutbacks with the City Council struggling to maintain key roads into the city such as the Old Tramore Road as well as roads such as the Ballycashin Hill which also needs urgent work.

I am calling on the government to make additional funding available to Waterford City Council immediately.

Waterford City Council Roads Allocation

Heading	2009 Allocation	Revised allocation April2009	2010 Estimate
National Primary Roads	€373,000	€271,500	€0
Block Grant	€546,000	€546,000	€646,000
Special Block Grant	€689,000	€373,000	€373,000
Traffic Management	€475,000	€60,000	€60,000
Low cost safety works	€85,000	€85,000	€85,000
Totals	€2,168,000	€1,335,500	€1,164,000

Keeping in touch

2010-01-12T21:29:00.000Z

Over the last number of years I have been updating my blog A View from the Left with commentary on the affairs of the day both local and national. This is continuing to prove very popular and I have connected with many fellow bloggers here in Ireland and abroad as well. In more recent times I have been using Facebook and Twitter to keep in touch with my electorate. And once again both of these social networking sites are proving to be a helpful communication tool. From an elected representative point of view nothing can replace the personal touch
of meeting people on the ground in their own estates and in their workplace. But without a doubt there is a role for these online activities. If you wish to join us on Facebook please contact us at
http:// www.facebook.com or follow on Twitter at http://twitter.com/seamusryan1

Alternatively follow the links at the side of this blog.

Obama Documentary Fascinating

2010-01-10T22:26:00.000Z

Last night I watched a fascinating documentary on BBC 2 on the Barack Obama election campaign. For anyone interested in politics and electioneering this was a must see programme. The unrelenting dedication of Obama's team could only amaze you. No stone was left unturned in registering voters and then in getting that vote out on polling day. What really stood out for me was the number of previously uncommitted voters and workers they managed to recruit. There is a lesson in this for all of us. Of course the message must be strong but the enthusiasm of the people he recruited to his campaign was amazing to see and was key to his success. Even for those of us who operate at local government level there were certainly lessons to be learned.

New Year Greetings

2009-12-28T17:27:00.000Z

I would like to take this opportunity to wish all readers of this Blog a Happy New Year. I have no doubt that 2010 will see many challenges for Waterford and for the people of Waterford. The greatest concern must be the continuing job losses in the region. This continues to cause great hardship for people with little or no leadership being shown by government as to how to deal with this crisis. However I also believe that if we work together we will overcome many of these challenges. Here in Waterford, for example, we are not waiting for government intervention but rather we are putting together our own plan with the redevelopment of Waterford Crystal in the City Centre. This plan was launched by Waterford City Council recently and is deserving of all our support.

Happy New Year everybody.

December City Council Meeting

2009-12-09T23:01:00.000Z

The following is the Agenda for the meeting of Waterford City Council to be held next Monday 14th December. If you would like further information on any of these issues please do not hesitate to contact me:

A G E N D A

1.	CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES:

Monthly Council meeting held 9^th November, 2009

2.	MATTERS ARISING:

3.	PLANNING:

1.Part X1 Planning & Development Act, 2000 - Part 8 Planning & Development Regulations 2001, as amended - Completion of the Process:

(a) Development at former City Council storage depot, Bolton Street (Protected Structure)-Report to follow.

Part X1 Planning & Development Act, 2000 - Part 8 Planning & Development Regulations 2001, as amended - Commencement of the Process:

(b) Flood alleviation – Phases 2,3 & 4

2. Planning Lists – Attached

4.	PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

Scheduled items attached

5.	FINANCE

Borrowing to fund social housing leasing initiative at Carrickphierish

6.	APPOINTMENTS TO WATERFORD CITY VEC

Report circulated

JPC

Report to follow

8.	QUESTION

Attached

9.	CORRESPONDENCE

Attached

10.

MOTIONS

Attached

11.

ANY OTHER BUSINESS

Public Sector Strike a success

2009-11-24T18:28:00.000Z

Today I stood alongside my colleagues on the picket line at Waterford Institute of Technology and was very proud to do so. One thing that was quite clear to me was that despite the ongoing efforts by government and the right wing media to scapegoat the public service there is still quite a lot of public support for the stance being taken by workers in the public sector. The decision to go out on strike was not a decision taken lightly by union members but it was felt that a stand had to be taken. It was also heartening to see workers from all unions play their part in this fight as was evident by the huge turnout.

It was also wonderful to see the march by the Community Development Projects which took place at the same time. The cuts to the Community Development Projects will have a devastating effect on disadvantaged communities throughout the country and here in Waterford in particular. Projects such as the Ballybeg CDP and the Larchville /Lisduggan CDP provide essential services to these communities. These communities will suffer if there is an attempt to cut their budgets or to remove the management of local services from local people.

Waterford City South Area Committee - Report

2009-11-17T19:36:00.006Z

I chaired a meeting of the Waterford City South Area Committee yesterday. The area committees were introduced about 5 years ago in order to deal with local issues. At yesterdays meeting I sought an update on the ongoing saga of the upgrading of the Old Tramore Road. In my opinion this road is one of the worst and most dangerous roads in the city. The plan is to upgrade the road but this won't happen until well into 2010. In the meantime I have asked for a temporary footpath to be put in place for residents in the nearby estates such as Greenfields, Bracken Grove, Fairfield Park, Avondale and Richardsons Meadow. There is also a new Childcare facility in the area. I have also requested that immediate works be carried out to make the road safer for pedestrian and motorist alike. This is an issue that I have been pursuing for the last while and will continue to do so until I receive a satisfactory conclusion.

Other issues discussed at the Area Committee included the very succesful Halloween Childrens party that was organised by the residents of Larchville and Lisduggan and the remedial works scheme in Clonard Park Ballybeg. Please contact me if you would like further information about any of these issues.

Do you know what your Public Servants do?

2009-11-17T19:31:00.000Z

Interesting article in todays Irish Examiner by Fergus Finlay about our Public Service and the valuable work carried out by thousands of workers the length and breadth of this country. Essential reading for our government and those who are continue to demonise public sector workers. As part of my work as a local councillor I come in contact with public service workers on a daily basis and I can see at first hand the pressure they are working under. The vast majority of these do so for modest incomes. So the next time you hear someone attack the public sector unfairly remind them of your family member, friend, relative or neighbour who you know are making a valuable contribution to society.

Advice Centres up and running

2009-11-12T22:57:00.007Z

My two new Advice Centres are now up and running and are quite busy. In the Lisduggan / Larchville / Lismore Park area I hold a monthly advice centre in the Parish Rooms Lisduggan on the last Friday of every month at 6pm. The Parish Rooms are located next to Lisduggan Credit Union and all are welcome.

In the Ballybeg area I hold a weekly advice centre in the Ballybeg Neighbourhood Office 61 Clonard Park Ballybeg every Tuesday at 12 noon. Once again all are welcome.

Christmas payment must be restored

2009-11-12T22:57:00.000Z

I was very pleased that Waterford City Council voted in favour of my motion calling on the government to restore the Christmas payment to those on social welfare. The motion was up for discussion at Monday night's meeting of the Council and was backed unanimously. I won't hold my breath that Minister Lenihan and Fianna Fail will have a sudden change of heart and allow pensioners and those on social welfare a little comfort this Christmas. However in my opinion it is important that we use every opportunity to highlight these draconian measures.

Community Development Projects under attack

2009-11-07T15:30:00.008Z

Of all the cutbacks announced recently one that has received little commentary is the proposed cuts to Community Development Projects throughout the country. These projects were set up to provide much needed services to local communities. The reason for their success is that they are managed by the local communities themselves. In my own electoral area the main two projects that are affected by these cuts are the Ballybeg Community Development Project and the Larchville Lisduggan Community Development Project. The management committees of these projects is made up of local residents. They provide important services for the community for example in Ballybeg and Lisduggan the projects provide much needed Child Care facilities, a modern sports hall, accredited training for local residents to name just a few services. The proposal from government seems to be to take the management of these projects away from the local communities.

In my opinion this is a major mistake. Yes, as in any organisation I am sure there are savings and efficiencies to be made but lets not lose sight of the key issue here. Local services are best delivered and managed by local people. I offer my full support to the Ballybeg CDP and the Larchville Lisduggan CDP and all the CDP's in their campaign.

Public Sector to be hit - again!!

2009-10-20T19:01:00.007+01:00

Taoiseach Brian Cowen stated tonight that Public Sector workers are to face even further pay cuts as the government look to bring in a budget that will go some way towards economic recovery. The only problem with this is that the government continue to focus only on public sector workers rather than bringing in a total economic stimulus package that would set us on the road to recovery.

Public perception is that public sector employees are all top earners with a free pension. Nothing could be further from the truth. A perception fuelled by misinformation from the government, IBEC, ISME and their ilk as they attempt to divert attention away from the absolute waste in government and the huge payments made to top businessmen. The vast majority of workers in local authorities, government departments, hospitals etc are all modestly paid employees providing essential services. And as for their pension entitlements public sector employees pay for their pensions on a weekly or monthly basis. And yes before someone else posts here I am employed in the public sector myself and along with my colleagues I am fed up of being blamed for this current economic crisis. It wasn't public sector employees that caused the banking crisis or the current economic mess. I do think that the government will live to regret the divide they have created between public sector and private sector workers. Rather than being at loggerheads with each other all workers whether they are private or public must unite to work together to come out of this crisis.

Trade Unions representing public sector workers are currently in the process of balloting their members for industrial action if the proposed pay cuts materialise. Interesting times ahead!!

Kenny dithers Gilmore leads

2009-10-07T22:30:00.000+01:00

If ever proof was needed that Enda Kenny just does not possess good leadership qualities it was seen yesterday as he dithered about the John O'Donoghue resignation issue. True leadership was shown by Labour Party leader Eamonn Gilmore who was clear about what was required in the ongoing scandal of the Ceann Comhairle's expenses. This was Gilmore at his best as he left the other opposition party leaders in his wake and took command of the situation. The public were demanding action and action is what they got by the Labour Party leader who made it quite clear that he did not take his decision lightly.

Sinn Fein bullyboy tactics

2009-09-30T14:06:00.000+01:00

Yesterday we saw a disturbing side of Sinn Fein when their supporters decided to disrupt a Labour Party press conference on the Lisbon Treaty. There really is no place for these bullyboy tactics in a democracy. Sinn Fein let themselves down badly yesterday by this action and their party leaders should condemn those who took part in this stunt. What was even more disturbing was that this protest was led by an elected representative of Sinn Fein who should respect the right of any party to hold a political meeting or press conference. Shame on them.

Lisbon Treaty not a done deal

2009-09-26T11:14:00.007+01:00

I spent the last week campaigning for a Yes vote for the Lisbon Treaty with some of my Labour Party colleagues in Waterford City. I believe that it is in the best interests of the country that Ireland votes in favour of the Lisbon Treaty. Any progressive legislation that has been introduced in this country had its origins in Europe. For example workers rights legislation and equality legislation have all been fought for and won in Europe. Of course the Lisbon Treaty may not be perfect but I believe in the current economic situation it is essential that Ireland remains at the heart of the European project and this can only be done by voting Yes on Friday next. I also believe that the result is not a foregone conclusion and will be close so it is important that we continue to canvsass for a Yes vote.

Check out some of the reasons for voting Yes to Lisbon here

I am disappointed however that the Labour Party seems to be the only political party doing a door to door canvass for a Yes vote in Waterford city. Those advocating a Yes vote must not take the result for granted. Remember if a vote is worth getting it is worth asking for so lets get out there and canvass between now and Friday next.

Waterford City Council discuss jobs crisis

2009-09-14T22:50:00.000+01:00

At a meeting of Waterford Council tonight there was a very good debate on unemployment and how it continues to effect our city. The focus of the debate was around what we as a city can do to improve the economic situation in Waterford. There has been some very good work carried out by the City Development Board of which I am a member. However it was also pointed out that central government needs to play a greater role in this area. In my own contribution to the debate I referred to the suffering of families that have recently experienced job loss. I have met with a number of families and individuals who are threatened with house repossession because of problems emanating from the loss of jobs. As usual we had calls for task forces, meetings with Ministers etc. Personally I believe that we need a fresh approach to the situation in Waterford. I made the suggestion that the government should appoint an individual and give him/her the resources to go out there and attract new industry and indeed work to retain the industry we have. One thing is for sure and that is that doing nothing is not an option and as far as I can see there is no leadership being shown by government, no overall strategy or plan to get us out of this situation. This must change. Why not let me know what you think?

Gilmore for Taoiseach - why not?

2009-08-30T16:58:00.004+01:00

Last night our new member of the European Parliament Alan Kelly MEP held a celebration night in Ballina County Tipperary. Unfortunately I was unable to make it due to previous commitments. Alan is someone I have great time for and I was delighted to read his call that Labour must demand a share of Taoiseach's position in any talks for government after the next election. It is not uncommon for governments in Europe to share the top position between party leaders so why should it not happen here? After all Eamonn Gilmore has consistently been the most popular party leader over the last couple of years. The public have connected with his honesty and his fresh approach to issues. No longer are people saying that you are all the same when they talk about the Labour Party . In the words of Eamonn Gilmore himself "We are neither Fianna Fail nor Fine Gael. We are Labour."

BreastCheck here at last

2009-08-28T22:41:00.000+01:00

I was delighted to hear this week that BreastCheck the national breast cancer screening programme for women has finally arrived in Waterford city. This follows a long campaign which included petitions, deputations and extensive lobbying and I would like to congratulate all of those people who gave of their time to campaign for this very successful service. I received a number of calls this week from women who have received their first appointment from BreastCheck. The service is located on the grounds of Whitfield Clinic, Butlerstown Cork Road Waterford and will remain there for the next few months.

Hands off the minimum wage

2009-08-26T13:19:00.003+01:00

Recent comments by Finance Minister Brian Lenihan regarding proposed cuts in the minimum wage are unfortunate to say the least. Of course he has found an ally in IBEC and ISME who are also calling for cuts in the minimum wage. The current economic crisis was not caused by those on the minimum wage so they should not be the ones to take the hit. As former President Mary Robinson said at the weekend "the country's poor must be protected from the recession" In this months online poll (which can be found to the side of this post) I am asking the question "Are you in favour of a cut in the minimum wage" Why not let me know what you think by voting?

Centralisation of Medical Cards to hit public hard

2009-08-25T17:46:00.000+01:00

I received a letter from IMPACT today regarding the proposal by the HSE and government to centralise the administration of medical card applications. This proposal from the HSE just does not make any sense to me. I believe the proposal is just focused on saving money rather than trying to find a more efficient way of carrying out this very important task. The centralisation of applications for the over 70's card has already gone ahead and has led to major problems , but now it appears that the HSE is intent on transferring the processing of all applications on a phased basis over the coming months. I issued my own statement on the issue which you can find here. I have subsequently been contacted by a number of people who are waiting extraordinary lengths of time to have their application dealt with. Rather than centralising a service that needs a local input it would be better for the HSE and the Minister for Health Mary Harney to invest in additional staff to deal with the backlog. Are you listening Minister? Please let me know what you think.