Author: niamhmurray

The ‘Orange the World’ logo was created by UN Women to symbolize a brighter future free from violence for all women and girls. Each year, UN Women and its UN partners use it during the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, from  25 November to 10 December, in the context of the UN Secretary General’s UNiTE to end Violence against Women Campaign.

The 16 Days campaign commences on 25 November, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, and ends on 10 December, Human Rights Day.

Violence against Women and Girls remains the most widespread and pervasive human rights violation worldwide affecting more than an estimated 1 in 3 women, a figure that has remained largely unchanged over the last decade. The most recent global estimates show that, on average, more than 5 women or girls are killed every hour by someone in their own family.

Gender-based violence also includes violence directed at persons which is motivated by how they choose to identify sexually.

The colour orange continues to be a UN tool unifying all activities to bring global attention to the ‘Orange the World’ initiative. However, in light of the energy crisis, this year we are not calling upon partners to illuminate buildings and landmarks in orange or to do so for a limited period on 25 November. We invite partners to consider different ways of painting the world orange including through decorating buildings, wearing the colour orange and oranging digital spaces throughout the 16 days.

More info:  https://www.unwomen.org/en/what-we-do/ending-violence-against-women/unite

Lots of social media content: https://trello.com/b/dHz04eiF/16days-of-activism-2023-noexcuse

Monaghan Joint Policing Committee is asking you to show your support for those who have suffered violence because of their gender in our community, and to send a strong message to those who carry out this abuse that it has no place in our society. That there is NO EXCUSE for it.

A simple way you can show your support for the campaign for the 16 days is to Orange your social media profiles on Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn by downloading the #NoExcuse cover image and changing your banner.  You can get the banners for Twitter, FB and LinkedIn here:

https://trello.com/c/GB3xkvJ8/6-banners-social-media-covers

You can also:
-Add an orange heart 🧡 next to your name
-Add the hashtags #NoExcuse #OrangeTheWorld and #16Days in your bio.

-Use the logos below – originals available at the links provided above:

Monaghan County Council (Ireland) launched A Feasibility Study on the Adoption of Alternative Fuel Vehicles for Local Authorities in partnership with Ards and North Down Borough Council, Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council, Louth County Council, Newry, Mourne and Down District Council, Belfast Met and East Border Region through our consultant Fehily Timoney have launched.  The launch was attended by staff from each of the partners and Monaghan County Council (Ireland) Councillors.  The study was funded by the Shared Island Unit through the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage.

The findings of the Feasibility Study were presented.

The seven stages of the study:

1. Baseline evaluation
2. Contextual Analysis
3. Stakeholder and Industry Engagement
4. Case Study Analysis
5. Alternative Fuel Option Analysis
6. Development of a Strategic Roadmap
7. Completion of the Feasibility Study Report.

Q&A followed.

The targets for Republic of Ireland under CAP23 requires a reduction in GHG emissions of 51% by 2030 and to achieve Net Zero GHG emissions by 2050.

The targets for Northern Ireland under Climate Change Act (Northern Ireland) 2022 (Act) requires a reduction in GHG emissions of 48% by 2030 and to achieve Net Zero GHG emissions by 2050.

Part XI Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended)

Part 8, Article 81 Planning and Development Regulations 2001 (as amended)

Monaghan County Council hereby gives notice that it proposes to carry out development at Ballyalbany Bridge, Coolshannagh Road, Coolshannagh, Mullaghmore East, & Derrynagrew, Co. Monaghan.

The proposed development will consist of

• Construction of a new pedestrian and cycle bridge on the east side of the existing Ballyalbany Bridge. The new bridge will directly abut the existing bridge. The new bridge will be joined to the existing bridge but will be supported independently via new piled abutments and new wingwalls.
• Construction of new embankments on approaches to new bridge.
• Construction of new timber post and rail fencing.
• Construction of new kerb lines for new footpaths and cycle lanes/tracks
• Provision of shared areas for pedestrians and cyclists.
• Provision of uncontrolled crossing points for pedestrians and cyclists.
• Planting of trees and other soft landscaping.
• Provision of new lighting.
• Construction of over-ride areas and narrowing of the existing Park Road / Coolshanagh Walk junction.
• Earthworks / excavations of existing roadways and verges, of existing roadway/footpaths, for service ducts and road crossings, etc.
• All associated Civil works with the above i.e., ducting, drainage, concreting, pavement works, tree felling, hedge removal etc.
• Repair and consolidation of existing bridge masonry, where necessary. The dismantled masonry will be reused as part of the proposed development.
• Partial taking down of boundary wall, parapet wall, buttress and cut-water.
• Extension of existing dry-span through new embankment.
• The proposed development consists of works to a Protected Structure and its curtilage.

In accordance with Article 81(2)(ca) and 120(1B)(b)(i) of the above-mentioned regulations, Monaghan County Council, as the competent authority, has concluded from a Screening Determination, which is based on an examination of the nature, size and location of the proposed development, that there is no real likelihood of significant effects on the environment arising from the proposed development, and as such has determined that an Environmental Impact Assessment is not required. This Screening Determination is available for inspection, and at any time before the expiration of 4 weeks from the date of publication of this notice, any person may apply to An Bord Pleanála for a screening determination as to whether the proposed development would be likely to have significant effects on the environment.

In accordance with Article 250(1)(ca) of the above-mentioned regulations, Monaghan County Council, as the competent authority, has concluded from a Screening Determination, which is based on an assessment of best scientific knowledge, that the proposed development, either individually or in combination with other plans or projects, is not likely to have a significant effect on a European site, and as such has determined that an Appropriate Assessment is not required. This Screening Determination is available for inspection, and any person may apply to An Bord Pleanála for a screening determination as to whether the proposed development would be likely to have significant effect on a European site.

Plans and particulars of the proposed development may be inspected or purchased, at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy during office hours at the offices of Monaghan County Council, Planning Section, No.1 Dublin Street, Monaghan H18 X982 until 5pm on 22^nd December 2023.

The plans and particulars of the proposed development may also be inspected online at www.monaghan.ie

Submissions or observations with respect to the proposed development, dealing with proper planning and sustainable development of the area in which the development will be situated may be made in writing to Monaghan County Council, Planning Section, No.1 Dublin Street, Monaghan H18 X982 or in electronic format via the Local Government Portal https://planning.localgov.ie/en/search/application before 5pm on 18^th January 2024.

 

Signed:                                

Gareth McMahon

A/Director of Services

Monaghan County Council

Dated: 23^rd November 2023

 

 

Part XI Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended)

Part 8, Article 81 Planning and Development Regulations 2001 (as amended)

Monaghan County Council hereby gives notice that it proposes to carry out development Horseshoe Bridge, Park Road, Mullaghcroghery (Monaghan By) & Mullaghmatt, Co. Monaghan.

The proposed development will consist of:

• Construction of a new pedestrian and cycle bridge on the west side of the existing Horseshoe Bridge. The new bridge will directly abut the existing bridge. The new bridge will be joined to the existing bridge but will be supported independently via new piled abutments and new wingwalls.
• Construction of new embankments on approaches to new bridge.
• Construction of new timber post and rail fencing.
• Construction of new kerb lines for new footpaths and cycle lanes/tracks.
• Provision of segregated cycling facilities.
• Provision of shared areas for pedestrians and cyclists.
• Provision of controlled crossing points for pedestrians and cyclists.
• Planting of trees and other soft landscaping.
• Provision of new lighting.
• Introduction of a traffic signals on Park Road on the north and south side of the existing bridge.
• Signalising of the existing Park Road / Mullaghmatt road junction.
• Earthworks / excavations of existing roadways and verges, of existing roadway/footpaths, for service ducts and road crossings, etc.
• All associated Civil works with the above i.e., ducting, drainage, concreting, pavement works, tree felling, hedge removal etc.
• Repair and consolidation of existing bridge masonry, where necessary.
• Provision of a clear zone to facilitate access to a private entrance on the south side of the existing bridge.
• The proposed development consists of works to a Protected Structure and its curtilage.

In accordance with Article 81(2)(ca) and 120(1B)(b)(i) of the above-mentioned regulations, Monaghan County Council, as the competent authority, has concluded from a Screening Determination, which is based on an examination of the nature, size and location of the proposed development, that there is no real likelihood of significant effects on the environment arising from the proposed development, and as such has determined that an Environmental Impact Assessment is not required. This Screening Determination is available for inspection, and at any time before the expiration of 4 weeks from the date of publication of this notice, any person may apply to An Bord Pleanála for a screening determination as to whether the proposed development would be likely to have significant effects on the environment.

In accordance with Article 250(1)(ca) of the above-mentioned regulations, Monaghan County Council, as the competent authority, has concluded from a Screening Determination, which is based on an assessment of best scientific knowledge, that the proposed development, either individually or in combination with other plans or projects, is not likely to have a significant effect on a European site, and as such has determined that an Appropriate Assessment is not required. This Screening Determination is available for inspection, and any person may apply to An Bord Pleanála for a screening determination as to whether the proposed development would be likely to have significant effect on a European site.

Plans and particulars of the proposed development may be inspected or purchased, at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy during office hours at the offices of Monaghan County Council, Planning Section, No.1 Dublin Street, Monaghan H18 X982 until 5pm on 22^nd December 2023.

The plans and particulars of the proposed development may also be inspected online at www.monaghan.ie

Submissions or observations with respect to the proposed development, dealing with proper planning and sustainable development of the area in which the development will be situated may be made in writing to Monaghan County Council, Planning Section, No.1 Dublin Street, Monaghan H18 X982 or in electronic format via the Local Government Portal https://planning.localgov.ie/en/search/application before 5pm on 18^th January 2024.

 

Signed:                 Gareth McMahon

A/Director of Services

Monaghan County Council

Dated:                  23^rd November 2023

 

 

• People with long term health conditions and Healthcare Workers should get both vaccines
• Make sure you and your family are protected this winter
• Book online or call HSELive on 1800 700 700

The HSE is urging every eligible person to get vaccinated against flu and COVID-19 urgently amid concern over an expected imminent rise in winter viruses. This is particularly important for people with long term health conditions and healthcare workers (HCWs).

Dr Éamonn O’Moore, Director of National Health Protection, HSE said: “We are concerned that the uptake of the vaccines so far remains low, and that this may have a serious impact on public health in the coming weeks and months. There is no room for complacency at this point.

“Our hospitals are already feeling pressure from a significant level of RSV, particularly our paediatric services. The winter in the southern hemisphere saw very high levels of flu, and this adds to the concern about our own winter. We are already seeing early signs that flu levels are rising and we expect it to be reaching its peak from mid-December and into January. COVID-19 levels are currently stable but we are seeing people seriously ill with COVID-19, including in our ICUs now, and around half of those have not received boosters in the last six months.

“There is still time for people to get their vaccines, it takes around two weeks for the vaccines to take effect so now is the time to act.

We know the lower the vaccination uptake, the more people we will see in our hospitals, people who could otherwise be at home.  We will see busier hospitals and increased pressure on services and staff. I am urging everyone eligible, including healthcare workers, to avail of the winter vaccines. We have reached a point where uptake needs to increase urgently to protect yourselves, and in doing so, your loved ones and our health service.”

Dr Lucy Jessop, HSE National Immunisation Lead, Consultant in Public Health Medicine, added “We are moving into the start of the rise of flu and COVID season, with all our projections pointing towards a multipathogenic winter.  A significant rise in respiratory illnesses over the coming weeks is expected.

“We are growing increasingly concerned by the disappointingly low vaccine uptake figures. Only 1 in 10 people who are immunocompromised have had their vaccine.  Without it, they are much more vulnerable to serious illness from flu and COVID-19. Uptake among heath and care workers is also lower than expected, which is alarming as they will be caring for patients, many of whom will have these viruses and we want to make sure they are protected.

“With this in mind we are urging everyone who is eligible, including older people, carers and vulnerable groups, to book their appointments for both the flu and COVID vaccines. They are available free of charge from participating GPs and Pharmacies; and HCWs can also get their vaccines at workplace clinics. The vaccines offer the best protection against these viruses this winter.”

• As of 1^st November only 11.5% of HSE employed HCWs have availed of the COVID-19 autumn booster vaccine and 24.3% have had the flu vaccine.
• 49% of people aged 70 and 18% of those aged 50-69 have had a COVID-19 autumn booster vaccine up to 12^th November.
• Only 10% of people who are immunocompromised have had their COVID-19 vaccine this winter.
• 59% of people aged 65 and older, 9.5% of eligible children aged 2-12 years and18% of those aged 50-64 years who are eligible have had their annual flu vaccine.
• The HSE is urging everyone eligible to get their vaccine.

Who is eligible?

A COVID-19 vaccine is now recommended for everyone aged 50 and over, everyone over 5 living with a long term health condition, those who are immunocompromised and all healthcare workers.  For eligible people an interval of at least 3 months since COVID-19 infection or your last COVID-19 vaccine is recommended before people receive their autumn/winter COVID-19 vaccine.

The flu vaccine is available free of charge to everyone aged 65 and older as well as all living with long term health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, respiratory illnesses and who may be immunocompromised, along with health and care workers. Both vaccines can be given at the same time.

Likewise the children’s flu vaccine is available free of charge to all children aged 2-12.

People aged 65 and over and people aged 2 to 64 years in an at-risk group should also check with their GP if they should receive a pneumococcal vaccine this winter. It can be given at the same time as the flu or COVID-19 vaccine.

If anyone needs to check when they had their last vaccine or needs assistance in booking a vaccination appointments please call HSELive on 1800 700 700.

 

See image below for further details – Have your Say:

15^th November 2023: Public Health, HSE Dublin and North East are reminding people not to handle or touch sick or dead wild birds to protect themselves from Avian Influenza (Bird Flu).

Avian Influenza commonly known as bird flu, is a notifiable animal disease and is a highly contagious viral disease affecting the respiratory, digestive and/or nervous system of many species of birds. It can also pose a threat to people and other animals in certain circumstances, but these types of infections are rare. Properly cooked poultry meat and eggs do not pose any food safety risk.

As the festive season approaches, we are urging poultry farmers and the public to be vigilant and to report any dead or dying wild birds they may find and it is vital that poultry keepers and flock owners maintain the highest standards of biosecurity to protect their birds, according to Consultant in Public Health Medicine, Public Health HSE Dublin and North-East, Dr Keith Ian Quintyne.

“No outbreaks have been reported to Public Health HSE Dublin and North East since the start of the flu season for 2023/2024. As compared to two outbreaks in poultry farms last season, however it is too early to say whether there would be fewer cases over the rest of the winter. Last year, Ireland similar to other countries in EU/EEA recorded multiple cases in wild/migratory birds, leading the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine to order all poultry flocks indoors to prevent contamination from infected wild birds. The restriction was only lifted in April of this year,” added Dr Quintyne.

 

What should I do if I find a dead wild bird?

It is important to remember that the vast majority of wild bird deaths in Ireland will not be related to Avian Influenza, based on information from surveillance activities.

However, you should follow routine precautions to prevent any other risks to your health, by following the advice below:

• Do not pick up or touch sick, dying or dead poultry or wild birds, and keep any pets away from them
• Avoid contact with surfaces contaminated with bird faeces
• Avoid untreated bird feathers (such as those found in the environment) and other bird waste
• Maintain good personal hygiene with regular wash hands with soap and water or to clean your hands with alcohol-based hand gel
• Clean and disinfect your footwear if you come in contact with areas where dead birds are found
• If you find dead waterfowl (ducks, geese or swans) or other dead wild birds, you should report them to the local Regional Veterinary Office or contact the Avian Influenza Hotline at 01 607 2512

For further information, visit: https://www.hpsc.ie/a-z/respiratory/influenza/avianinfluenza/