Author: niamhmurray

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/

 

• HSE urges people to help limit spread of RSV to protect children and newborns.

The HSE is urging parents to be vigilant of their children’s symptoms as GPs and hospitals report a rise in the numbers of young children affected by respiratory symptoms and viruses, including RSV. A rise in RSV is to be expected during the winter period.

RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) is a highly contagious respiratory disease, which generally occurs between October and April, with cases peaking in December. It is the main cause of bronchiolitis and pneumonia in very young children. Bronchiolitis may lead to breathing and feeding difficulties and can result in hospitalisation.

RSV can also be serious and life-threatening for older adults, individuals with weak immune systems, and children who are premature or have chronic heart and lung disease.

Dr Abigail Collins, National Clinical Lead for the HSE’s Child Health Public Health Programme, said: “We’ve seen a very significant recent rise in the number of children with RSV, especially in children aged four and under, which is concerning. It’s up to us all to do our part to protect vulnerable babies and children. Key to that is to reducing the chance of infection and spread.

“That means staying away from others if you feel unwell, covering your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, binning used tissues and washing your hands after and regularly throughout the day. Please make sure your child’s vaccines or immunisations are up to date, including the annual free nasal flu vaccine available from your local GP or pharmacy.”

Dr Ciara Martin, HSE National Clinical Advisor for Children and Young People, said: “Newborns and younger babies are at particular risk from RSV. When visiting families with newborns you need to be extra careful to wash your hands before holding them. And don’t kiss and cuddle babies if you have a cold or a cough. For parents who are worried we have a lot of advice available on mychild.ie.

“Most cases of RSV can be cared for at home, and usually clears between two to three weeks without treatment. However, symptoms can worsen quickly, particularly within the first 5-6 days, so it is important to watch symptoms and seek medical advice when needed.”

Advice regarding crèches and childcare services

At this time of year, children may have a runny nose or slight cough, and they should not be prevented from attending if they are feeling well with one mild symptom. However, if a child is feeling unwell with more significant symptoms, or combination of symptoms (cough, runny nose and mild fever) then they should be at home until the fever and their symptoms have gone.

Children may have a persistent cough after infection for a few weeks so once the fever and other symptoms have gone, they should not be excluded for the cough alone.

Good ventilation of shared spaces, good cough etiquette (coughing into tissue or elbow rather than on hands) and good hand hygiene / cleaning of surfaces, all really help in preventing spread.

Initial symptoms can include:

• runny nose
• blocked nose
• mild fever (temperature of 38 degrees Celsius)
• slight cough.

Further symptoms usually develop over the next few days, including:

• mild fever (temperature of 38 degrees Celsius)
• a dry and persistent cough
• rapid or noisy breathing (wheezing)
• feeding less
• fewer wet nappies
• vomiting after feeding
• being irritable.

Find out what parents need to know about RSV by watching this video from Dr Ciara Martin, HSE Clinical Lead for Children and Young People.

About RSV (Bronchiolitis)

RSV causes bronchiolitis, which is a common chest infection in babies and young children. This virus spreads when someone coughs or sneezes and it mostly affects babies and young children under 2 years old, especially babies under 6 months old. Most cases are mild and clear up within 2 to 3 weeks without treatment. Antibiotics are not needed and will not help to treat it.

Main ways to assist babies with bronchiolitis:

• keep breastfeeding if you are breastfeeding
• don’t smoke around them
• feed little and often as able
• know signs and symptomsand when to go to your GP/ED.

Sometimes RSV can be more serious and children with bronchiolitis will need to be cared for in hospital. Parents are advised to trust their instinct and to always contact their GP if they are worried, especially if the symptoms get worse quickly.  More information and advice can be found here.

Keep an eye on your social feeds on Instagram @IrishHealthService, Twitter @HSELive and Facebook facebook.com/HSElive for information on RSV and other winter viruses #HSEMyChild #WinterViruses

Thankfully, there have been no reports of any major storm related damage following storm Debi, however, Monaghan County Council advise people to exercise caution as there may be some debris remaining on our roads. Monaghan County Council’s Municipal districts teams have been working from early morning to assess the damage caused by the storm Debi and has already cleared most roads of fallen trees, branches, and other debris.

There was strong cooperation of members of the public, who notified Monaghan County Council of issues across our road network. Thanks to all Monaghan County Council staff involved in the clean-up operations.

See below for further information on Storm Debi – Reported Incidents in County Monaghan:

 

 

Small and micro businesses in Monaghan are the first in the country to avail of the ESGo digital tool which provides for independent validation of green credentials.

Described as “a game changer” by the Local Enterprise Office in Monaghan, securing validation will allow them access benefits that up to now have been out of reach.

“There are many businesses in Monaghan who have not had access to a mechanism that both recognises and validates the steps they have already taken to be more sustainable,” explained Eilín Connolly, Acting Head of Enterprise, Local Enterprise Office, Monaghan.

ESGo [pronounced Easy Go] is an easy to use digital tool that will assist businesses in tracking and managing their responsible Environmental, Social & Governance (ESG) journey.

“I am particularly delighted that this is available free of charge after the Local Enterprise Office in Monaghan secured the pilot for the county,” she added.

ESGo had its genesis in Monaghan Local Enterprise Office’s Go Green programme which supports local businesses as they transition to low carbon entities.

“Until now there has not been an intuitive, ease to use system that micro and small businesses can use to get an accreditation.”

“There are ISO environmental standards suitable for large firms but they are too complicated for the micro firm. This simplified platform will give them the confidence to undertake responsible actions in pursuit of ESG goals and will give them an all-important accreditation for their efforts,” she explained.

“This has several benefits for our local entrepreneurs and employers. They not only contribute to environmental sustainability, but it can also have positive effects on the business’s bottom line and reputation. I think it could be a gamechanger.”

The work began with a feasibility study last year and that research identified a gap in the market in assessing social impacts and governance structures.

The outcome is the easy-to-use ESGo platform for smaller businesses who will be audited and a credential then issued by ‘Climeaction’ – experts in this area.

Monaghan Local Enterprise Office worked with Cork based ‘Climeaction’ as it specialises in providing climate action solutions for business including decarbonisation to develop the platform.

The company will also audit the businesses, provide a roadmap for increased compliance and then issue the appropriate validation.

Robert Burns, Chief Executive Officer, Monaghan County Council, said,

“We are delighted to have secured the pilot programme for the county; it will enable businesses to build on work already undertaken to improve their carbon footprint.

Climeaction said, “ESGo is a simplified approach to increase engagement with SME companies in ESG and provide them with value by way of an advisory report from a trusted impartial source.”

Among those leading the way in hospitality is Sean Redmond, head chef with Andy’s Bar & Restaurant where energy costs dropped by a remarkable 11% by measuring and monitoring energy usage – a saving of €2,724.  With ESGo he can seek secure independent validation of his commitment to going green and staying green.

More information for businesses is available by contacting info@leo.monaghancoco.ie