County Kildare News

February 1st is St. Brigid's Annual Feast Day and the people of Kildare have found many interesting and fun ways to mark this day. Féile Bríde - Brigid's Festival is a week long series of events running up to Brigid's Day. On St. Brigid's Day visitors to Kildare town will have the opportunity to learn the craft of weaving Brigid crosses at Aras Bhride and Kildare Heritage Centre. Also on the day, visitors can join a walk around the ancient monastic city of Kildare with Mario Corrigan. Those interested should assemble in the Market Square, at St. Brigid's Flame at 1.30 p.m. On the same day, Leixlip Library will host a Workshop on how to make a St Brigid's Cross.

For anyone interested in the story of St. Brigid's cloak, there is a wonderful version of the story  on the Grey Abbey website at
http://www.kildare.ie/greyabbey/archives/2006/01/st_brigids_shaw.asp

More information on Féile Bríde can also be found on the below websites:

http://www.solasbhride.ie

www.kildare.ie/kildareheritage

Deputy Michael Fitzpatrick, together with Energy Minister Eamon Ryan, welcomed the introduction in the Finance Bill, published today, of a new scheme aimed at supporting investment in new energy-saving equipment by companies.

Section 42 of the Finance Bill introduces a new section into the Taxes Consolidation Act 1997. Capital allowances of 100% of the cost will be available to those companies investing in high energy-efficient equipment.

Expenditure on high energy-efficient equipment above a minimum figure in the three categories listed below will qualify for 100% accelerated capital allowances in the year of purchase.

This new tax incentive will encourage business to invest in energy-saving equipment. The scheme allows businesses to write off the whole cost of designated equipment against taxable profits in the year of purchase.

Investing in energy-saving equipment will reduce annual running costs through increased efficiency and lower energy bills every year for the lifetime of the equipment. It is also a straightforward way for business to improve its cash flow through accelerated tax relief.

In welcoming this new incentive, Deputy Fitzpatrick said,

“Irish businesses face serious competitiveness challenges in the marketplace. Reducing energy costs is a key factor in improving Ireland’s competitiveness.”

Also speaking as a new member of the Committee on Environment, Heritage and Local Government, I have become acutely aware that saving energy is also one of the quickest and cheapest ways to reduce carbon emissions. Currently, we use far more energy than is required. This scheme will assist the business community in becoming more energy conscious and in reducing their overall environmental impact.

Now, businesses wishing to improve their cash flow, save in long-term energy costs and reduce their carbon emissions can do so in one fell swoop by availing of this new incentive.
 
It’s good news for the environment, for competitiveness and for the bottom line.”
 

Please note:
The list of equipment will be established, and may be amended, by order of the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources. Sustainable Energy Ireland will be responsible for maintaining the list.
 
The scheme will be confined to new energy-efficient equipment purchased by companies and will not apply to equipment that is leased, let or hired. 
 

The aim of the IWS/ILAM Ireland, Pool Lifeguard Award is to enable a
candidate to act as a designated lifeguard, trained in pool rescue and BLS
techniques. He/She will also have an awareness of first aid and pool water
management.

Course starts Friday 8th Feb 2008 in Naas Swimming Pool and will take place on
Friday nights and Saturday Mornings

Friday date Feb 8th,15th,22nd,29th and March 7th (8pm to 11pm)
Saturday dates Feb 9th & Mar 1st ,8th (8am to 1pm)

Further information or to book a place  email : info@kildarewatersafety.ie  

MINIMUM STANDARD ENTRY LEVEL
. Be able to swim 100 metres on their front and 100 metres on their back.
. Be able to surface dive and recover an object from the deepest part of
the pool.
. Be 16 years of age, or older, at the time of the examination.

The specification for the qualification is:
Unit 1 Basic Life Support 1,2 and 3
Unit 2 Life Guarding
Unit 3 Pool Operations

Lifeguard certification is awarded at either of two levels.

Level 1 certificates are awarded to those who are judged to be competent
to supervise swimming pools or sections of a swimming facility, where the
water depth does not exceed 1.5m.

Level 2 certificates are awarded to those who are judged to be competent
to supervise areas of water in a swimming facility where depths are
greater than 1.5m.

Candidates can upgrade from a Level 1 to a Level 2 award during the
validity period of the Level 1 award. Candidates undertaking such an
upgrade do not have to complete the entire course.

Kildare Volunteer Bureau have announced volunteering opportunities with the new Cheshire Ireland Respite Centre

Cheshire Ireland

Cheshire Ireland, a National organisation providing support, advocacy, accommodation and personal assistance to people with a physical/sensory disability over 18 years of age, wish to recruit volunteers for a range of activities at it’s new respite centre in Newbridge.

Opportunity: (1) Drivers to take residents around the area during their stay in Newbridge

Skills: Full driving licence

Time: 1-2 hours per week

Opportunity: (2) People to befriend residents during their stay e.g. take someone shopping, socialise etc.,

Skills: A pleasant outgoing personality

Time: 1-2 Hours per week

Opportunity:(3) A person to assist with general upkeep of premises

Skills : Gardening, DIY

Time: 1-2 Hours per week

Opportunity:(4) Arts & crafts person

Skills: Competent in Arts & Crafts

Time: 1-2 hours per week

Opportunity:(5) People to demonstrate a range of culinary dishes

Skills: Talented cook

Time: 1-2 hours per week

Opportunity:(6) Alternative therapies e.g Reflexology, Hand massage, Indian head massage etc.,

Skills: Qualified therapists

Time: 1-2 hours per week

All volunteers are required to undergo Garda vetting

Please contact: michelle@volunteerkildare.ie

Telephone:045-449156

With effect from 2007, Kildare Co. Council is engaging in a system of advertising grants available on a co-ordinated basis.

Please see below, a list of the grants available to the citizens, local communities and local development bodies of County Kildare for this year.

Please note, the closing date for receipt of applications is Thursday 20th March 2008 for all grants.

COMMUNITY GRANTS SCHEMES 2008

We are now inviting applications for the various grants administered by the Community & Enterprise Department in Kildare County Council.  These include Festival Grants, Community Grants and Amenity Grants Schemes.

Festival Grants
These grants aim to promote and support local festivals and celebratory activities in the county that have a tourism, cultural/artistic or community perspective. 

Conferences, seminars and commercial activities are excluded from the Scheme.  Closing date for receipt of applications is Thursday 20th March 2008.

Community Grants
These grants pertain to community groups and organisations within County Kildare, whose activities promote the well-being of communities in the County and which contribute toward meeting the goals of the County’s 10-year strategy, “Kildare 2012.”

Projects in areas concerned with the following will be considered for funding:

• Social Inclusion – projects involving groups such as Travellers, youth, people with disabilities, refugees & asylum seekers
• Community Integration - coming together to jointly address local problems
• Community Participation – improving facilities for community use
• Joint projects with the local authority
• Technical Assistance – preparation of local development and action plans, research, training & facilitation

Closing date for receipt of applications is Thursday 20 March 2008.

Amenity Grants
These grants are aimed at community groups engaged in environmental type activity in public open spaces, not within housing estates. 
Closing date for receipt of applications is Thursday 20 March 2008.

Application Forms
Application forms for all the above schemes are available from:
Maria Allison, Community & Enterprise Section, Kildare County Council, Áras Chill Dara, Devoy Park, Naas. 
Tel: 045 980535.
Email: mallison@kildarecoco.ie

HERITAGE GRANTS

The Heritage Council operates a grants programme and will provide funding for the following schemes:

• Local Heritage Grant Scheme  
• Publication Grant Scheme;
• Museums and Archives Grant Scheme;
• The Wildlife Grant Scheme
• The Archaeology Grant Scheme
• The Architectural Research Grant Scheme.

The Council also offers grants for repairs to historic buildings under the Buildings at Risk Scheme.  Details and advice on grant applications can be obtained from the Heritage Officer:
Bridget Loughlin, Kildare Co. Council, Áras Chill Dara, Devoy Park, Naas, Co. Kildare.
Tel: 045 / 980791.
Email: bloughlin@kildarecoco.ie
Closing date for receipt of applications is Thursday 20 March 2008.

GRANTS FOR THE CONSERVATION OF PROTECTED STRUCTURES

It is envisaged that Kildare County Council will be inviting applications for the Conservation Grants Scheme 2008 in March. On receipt of notification of the funding available from the Department of the Environment, Heritage & Local Government further details of the Scheme will be advertised.
Further information please contact Josh Hannigan, Kildare Co. Council, Áras Chill Dara, Devoy Park, Naas, Co. Kildare.
Tel: 045 / 980755
Email: jhannigan@kildarecoco.ie

KILDARE COUNTY COUNCIL
ARTS SERVICE AWARDS OPPORTUNITIES 2008

Kildare County Council Arts Service invites applications for the following schemes:

Arts Act Grants Scheme
Applications are invited from:

•  Arts Education/ training projects
• Bursary awards for individual Kildare based artists for the development of their work. 
• Assistance to groups/organisations/schools towards the cost of projects or events that stimulate public interest in and improve arts practice in the county.
• Assistance to groups / organisations for the purchase of equipment

Cecil Day Lewis Literary Bursary Award
The annual Cecil Day Lewis Literary Bursary Award is open to both established and emerging writers and critics to enable
Research:  towards the production of new writings
Formal or informal training:  Participation in a professional or post-graduate course, mentoring, or other initiative, which will expand existing practice.

Kildare Dance Bursary Award
Kildare County Council Arts Service proposes to offer a bursary to Kildare based dancers and choreographers for further training, creative projects, choreographic research or professional development. Applicants should include the specifics of their proposed project in the application, outlining how it will develop their practice.  

Tyrone Guthrie Residency Bursary Award
Two bursary awards will be made to artists from all fields born or living in Co. Kildare to enable them to spend two weeks at the Tyrone Guthrie Centre at Annaghmakerrig, the artist’s workplace in Monaghan.  Artists will be selected on the basis of their previous achievements and the project they intend to further during their working residence.

For information about the Tyrone Guthrie Centre see www.tyroneguthrie.ie

Drama League of Ireland Summer School Bursary Award
Kildare County Council Arts Service proposes to offer two bursary awards for the DLI Summer School Saturday 19 - Saturday 26 July 2008 at University of Limerick. 
For information about the Drama League of Ireland see www.dli.ie

Application forms and further information are available from:

Kildare County Arts Service, Riverbank, Main Street, Newbridge, Co Kildare
Contact Eoghan Doyle:
Tel: 045-448318
Email: ekdoyle@kildarecoco.ie
Or Brenda Brady:
Tel: 045 / 448328; 
Email: bbrady@kildarecoco.ie
Information is also available at  www.kildare.ie/artsservice
Closing date for receipt of applications for each scheme is Thursday 20 March 2008.

CAPITAL GRANTS FOR RECREATIONAL DEVELOPMENT 2008

We have now opened our 2008 Capital Grants Scheme for Recreational Development.

The purpose of the scheme is to give practical support to local sporting clubs and organisations by helping to fund their development. 

Application forms and full details of the scheme are available from:
Cheryl Wilson, Leisure Services Dept., Áras Chill Dara, Devoy Park, Naas,
Co. Kildare.
Tel: 045 / 980262
Email: cwilson@kildarecoco.ie
Closing date for receipt of completed applications is Thursday 20 March 2008.

RESIDENTS ASSOCIATION GRANTS  - PRIVATE ESTATES
Grants are awarded towards expenses incurred on estate maintenance, e.g. landscaping, flower beds, tree planting and other minor works.
For further information please contact: Pearl Voight, Kildare Co. Council, Áras Chill Dara, Devoy Park, Naas, Co. Kildare.
Tel: 045 / 980588
Email: pvoight@kildarecoco.ie
Closing date for receipt of applications is Thursday 20 March 2008.

RESIDENTS ASSOCIATION GRANTS – LOCAL AUTHORITY ESTATES
Grants are paid to residents associations for the maintenance and improvement of housing estates.  Work such as tree planting, shrubberies, etc. is eligible.
To obtain further information please contact the following:
Mary Behan, Community Worker, North Kildare.
Tel: 045 / 980693
Email: mbehan@kildarecoco.ie or
Doreen Daly, Community Worker, South Kildare
Tel: 045 / 980596
Email: ddaly@kildarecoco.ie

Closing date does not apply to this particular grant category.

LOCAL IMPROVEMENT SCHEME 2008
Applications are invited for the above Scheme, which applies to repairs to non-public accommodation roads and bog roads.  To qualify, the project must be of benefit to agricultural production and benefit two or more parcels of land owned / occupied by different persons.

Further details and application forms can be obtained from the Roads Administration Section of the Council – Tel: 045/ 980421

Completed applications should be returned to Patrick Whelan, Senior Executive Officer, Transportation Department, Kildare Co. Council, Aras Chill Dara, Devoy Park, Naas, Co. Kildare.
Tel: 045 / 980394
Email: pwhelan@kildarecoco.ie
Closing date for receipt of applications is Thursday 20th March 2008.

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT SCHEME
This scheme applies to repairs to public roads only.
For further information please contact: Patrick Whelan, Senior Executive Officer, Transportation Department, Kildare Co. Council, Aras Chill Dara, Devoy Park, Naas, Co. Kildare.
Tel: 045 / 980394
Email: pwhelan@kildarecoco.ie

Closing date does not apply to this particular grant category.

All grants awarded, are subject to a maximum amount available, within limited budget allocations and in accordance the terms and conditions pertaining to individual grant schemes. Application does not guarantee an award of grant. All applications are judged on merit of the project/initiative submitted for consideration.

Ballymore Properties have announced their sponsorship of the added fifth day of the Punchestown Festival.

The two-and-a-half-mile Ballymore 25th Anniversary Hurdle  will be the feature event of the Saturday racing. Worth a total of €220,000, this will be the most valuable handicap hurdle ever run in Britain and Ireland.

The Ballymore sponsorship brings the total prize fund for the Punchestown festival to €3,000,000.

The Punchestown National Hunt Festival will take place from April 22nd to the 26th.

Kildare North Fianna Fail T.D. Michael Fitzpatrick has urged local companies to avail of the €500 million Research and Development Scheme.

“This R&D funding will help Kildare businesses in securing quality jobs, growing exports and increasing profits.”

“The R&D Grant Scheme has just been launched and has been revised and simplified to ensure that companies across all sectors can access the funds.”

“This new move is in line with Government policy to decrease red tape for businesses in a bit to support economic growth and job creation.”

“Ireland has developed a reputation as being a top location for ground breaking research. Company-to-company collaborations and partnerships between our third level institutions and companies are a vital part of this.”

“This Scheme will encourage collaboration between companies, particularly small businesses.”

“I would like to encourage any Kildare companies who think they might qualify to contact their local Enterprise Ireland and speak to them about the opportunities to develop R&D,” concluded Deputy Fitzpatrick.

Kildare County Council Arts Service has announced details of a number of schemes to fund arts projects in 2008.

Go to the Kildare County Arts Service Website to read details of each scheme and important notes to applicants.

Click on the links below for MS Word documents giving information and application forms for each of the schemes:

1. Arts Act Grants
2. Cecil Day Lewis Literary Bursary Award
3. Kildare Dance Bursary Award
4. Drama League of Ireland Summer School
5. Tyrone Guthrie Centre @ Annaghmakerrig

For further information contact:

Eoghan Doyle - Assistant County Arts Officer

email: ekdoyle@kildarecoco.ie

Tel:  045 448328

A three race ‘Mondello Masters’ championship is set to boost the Irish domestic Motorcycle Racing scene with a €25,000 prize fund and a strong promotional package. The series, which will run in conjunction with the Kidare circuits three Irish Superbike events, aims to attract the top Irish racers who currently race abroad back to Mondello along with some of their fellow UK competitors.

Mondello Park has for many years contributed to the prize fund for the ‘Birrane Cup’, run for national riders at Clubman events, but for 2008 this competition will be dropped and the prize money absorbed into the much larger fund available for the Mondello Masters. All three events on the schedule have been arranged so as not to clash with British Superbike Championship races and thereby facilitate the growing number of Irish riders competing in that series and its support races.

The opening event takes place on April 12th & 13th with a top prize of €3,000 on offer to the winner, €1,250 to the runner-up and €750 to the final podium place. The second event runs on May 10th & 11th, one week before the North West 200, and it is hoped that this along with a doubling of the prize fund to €6,000, €2,500 and €1,500 for the event, will entice some UK competitors to stop off on their way North.

The final event on October 4th and 5th reverts to the €5,000 prize fund, but with the addition of a further €5,000 on offer to anyone who can win all three rounds of the series or €2,000 for taking two wins. These prize funds are in addition to those available for the Irish Superbike Championship races, from which the winner could also pocket up to €1,000 per event.

The Mondello Masters will only be open to Superbike and Supersport competitors, with the top twenty four riders on each day being invited to compete. The schedule for all three events will be organised so that the master’s race is the final race of the day for these riders, making it easier for them to fit it in with their ISB championship commitments.

John Morris was delighted to be able to announce the new series saying; “The ISB Championship has certainly struggled in recent years with many Irish competitors going straight to the UK or choosing to race on the roads. This triangular championship offers these competitors a real opportunity to pocket serious prize money from only three visits to Mondello. A quality entry should provide a great show and hopefully this will return significant spectator numbers at these events”.

This new initiative has come about due to the co-operation of the MCUI Short Circuit committee and the organising clubs who will run the events. The three race meetings will be promoted by Mondello and if the inaugural series is a success the levels of investment and promotion may be expanded in future years.

Breathing Place Yoga, Clane, Participates in World Yoga Day.

On Sunday the 3rd of February 2008 from 11AM - 1PM, Breathing
Place Yoga in Clane will join yoga teachers and schools from around the
world in donating time and space to a two hour yoga session which will
lead to a 24 hour yoga marathon devoted to human rights.

The classes are held from 11AM - 1PM, local time in each time zone, which will lead to a 24 hour yoga marathon around the world. Devoting thoughts and energy globally to the human rights issue will generate a powerful impact.

Breathing Place Yoga in Clane is one of 10 yoga studios in Ireland supporting the event with a two hour class at 11am and all are welcome donating whatever tuition that can be afforded. All donations will go directly to Amnesty International.

In the run-up to the 2008 Olympic Games in Bejing Amnesty International is conducting a campaign to urge the Chinese authorities to keep their promise to improve the human rights situation in China, especially in the areas of death penalty, fair trial and prevention of torture and ill-treatment, protection of human rights defenders and freedom of expression and information.

All yoga styles are welcome. Bringing all yogis worldwide together to devote their practice to this important cause will be a wonderful, spirited celebration of yoga. The aim of World Yoga Day is that as many nations as possible come together on this project, especially countries where human rights violation is a more dominant issue.

Places are limited so advance registration is recommended. For further information or to register contact Breathing Place Yoga in Clane through: www.breathingplace.com or visit www.worldyogaday.net. All you need is your yoga mat and openness to experience the power of yoga!

They have tours booked on all continents where they will bring their music, songs and stories to generations who have enjoyed them over the years. This includes a date at the Moat Theatre, Naas, on Sat 2 February  2008 at 8.00pm

Their audiences have included the late Pope John Paul, President of Ireland Mary McAleese and Australian Prime Minister John Howard.

Former British Prime Minister Tony Blair has stated that his favourite peace song of all time is the Fureys "Green Fields of France".

There is nothing we can say about these legends of Irish Music that people don't already know so don't miss this opportunity when you can hear them sing all their hits including "When You Were Sweet 16", "The Green Fields of France", "The Old Man", "Red Rose Cafe", "From Clare To Here", "Her Father Didn't Like Me Anyway, "Leaving Nancy, "Steal Away" etc.

All their previous shows sold out well in advance so early booking is advised.

Kildare Heritage Centre are continuing to offer guided walking tours of Kildare Town for 2008 by local historians.

The first walking tour of the year will take place outside Kildare
Heritage Centre, Market House, Market Square Kildare Town on Feb
1st, St Brigid's Day at 1.45. The Walking Tour on Feb 1st is Free
of Charge and lasts approx 1 1/2 hrs. All are welcome.

Another walking tour will take place at Easter weekend, dates and times to be confirmed. As with last year, Walking Tours will take place June, July and August 2008.

Anyone interested in becoming a walking tour guide or any queries
on Kildare Walking Tours please contact Mary on 045 530672.

For Information on events happening around Feile Bhride log onto
www.solasbhride.ie.

kildare.ie has won the LAMA Award for "Best Use of External Communications".
It beat off stiff competition from South Dublin County Council, North Tipperary County Council, Donegal County Council, Longford County Council and Leitrim County Council.
The winners were announced at the Citywest Hotel last Saturday night, 19th January 2008 by RTE presenter Sharon Ni Bheolain and The Minister for Environment, Heritage and Local Government John Gormley presented the Award.

LAMA, the Local Authority Members Association, represents elected councillors nationwide.

The County Kildare Community Network operates www.kildare.ie, which is the number one website for information and resources relating to County Kildare, capturing the largest online audience in County Kildare and beyond, with over 5.3 million visitors accessing the domain in 2007.

The Kildare County Council website, www.kildare.ie/countycouncil is the largest website on the domain accounting for almost a quarter of all website visits and its recent makeover helped contribute to the success on the night.

The County Kildare Community Network website, www.kildare.ie, has recently been upgraded. The new look website includes many extra features including a bigger and better Community Directory, an improved Events Section, an enhanced Business Directory, and improved and updated content. New features include Kildare A-Z, Kildare Links Directory, Best of Irish Links, and a brand new Community News section with RSS Feeds.

The improved design reflects the quality and diversity of content and contributors to kildare.ie

Adherence to web standards and improved accessibility & usability are an integral part of the new design.

Another winner on the night was Castletown House, Celbridge. It won the LAMA Award for "Best Heritage Project". The other nominations in this category were the Cliffs of Moher New Visitor Experience in Clare, Woodstock Gardens in Kilkenny, Ardagh Clock Tower in Longford, St. George's Heritage Centre in Leitrim, Dalkey Castle Heritage in Dun Laoghaire Rathdown, Wicklow Historical Gaol, and Lackagh Museum & Heritage Centre in Galway.

For more information visit the following websites
www.kildare.ie - Kildare Community Network
www.kildare.ie/countycouncil - Kildare County Council
www.lamaawards.org - The LAMA Awards
www.castletown.ie - Castletown House

Feedback on the new www.kildare.ie website is most welcome. Send your comments to info@kildare.ie.

Members of Monasterevin Athletic Club, who attended the Sponsorship Presentation in Monasterevin Credit Union recently. The presentation was made by Maureen O Meara, Chairperson Monasterevin Credit Union.

Maureen stated that she was delighted to see the Athletic Club was as strong as the day it started back in 2000 and that she was delighted to see that some members were off to the Isle of Man shortly to compete in the Isle of Man Grand Prix of Race Walking.

They are  Ashling Spain and Tara Ging U/14 1500m. Orla Nolan and Ciara Sinden U/13 15oom. Carol & Amy Burtenshaw  U/23 5000m. Maureen O'Meara congratulated the girls on their success and wished them every success in the Isle of Man.  

Olive Spain, Secretary Monasterevin Athletic Club, thanked the Credit Union for their support since the club was formed and especially for their sponsorship for this year's track & field season...

The newly introduced Mondello Park Track Team, which will provide personnel for many key positions at the circuits Car Race events, is seeking additional members. The innovative new initiative is designed to create a single team of people who will look after not only circuit marshalling, but also many of the other facets of race organisation including paddock, grids, timekeeping and results.

The creation of the Track Team coincides with Mondello Park assisting the clubs by providing key race control personnel at events, in order to bring consistency and some improvement to the standards of race organisation at the circuit. With race control staff, event administration, marshalling and vehicle recovery staff all effectively part of the same team, a more harmonious and effective working environment is expected to transform race organisation at the circuit.

The Track Team will be split into two sections, on-track and off-track. The on–track members will perform all of the traditional marshalling duties such as incident and flag marshalling as well as crewing the new Mazda Fast Intervention Vehicles. Training will be provided and a grading scheme will ensure that there is a definite path of promotion through the ranks for those who wish to pursue it. Off-Track duties will include all aspects of the administration of an event from sign-on, through paddock assembly and grids, in addition to operating the computerised timing system and assisting in race control.

Membership of the Track Team is open to anyone with a Motorsport interest who is over sixteen for off-track duties or over eighteen for on-track. Members are expected to come initially from existing marshalling organisations and event organisation clubs but with a wide variety of positions to be filled and duties to be performed, the club is also expected to attract many members who are new to the sport.

Traditionally marshals and officials have provided their time on a voluntary basis and while this will continue to be the case, a comprehensive system of rewards and incentives will mean that in future all participants will be much better rewarded for their efforts. To encourage new members who may not have their own transport, efforts will be made to find other team members or competitors in their area who can assist them.

Speaking about the new Track team Mondello Park Managing Director John Morris said “The Mondello Track Team will be a dynamic and exciting part of the race organisation at Mondello Park Car Racing events in 2008 and beyond. It will offer the circuit and the organising clubs the opportunity to deliver Motor Racing in a more consistent and professional manner, which will be for the benefit of competitors and spectators alike.”

Anyone interested in finding out more about “Track Team” can contact the Mondello Park office or access more comprehensive information on the home page of the Mondello Park web site www.mondellopark.ie.

Public Meeting and Pre-enrollment for proposed Educate Together
primary school in Maynooth - 26th January.

Maynooth Educate Together are holding a public meeting and public launch of their Pre-enrollment List on Saturday, 26th January 2008. The purpose of the meeting is to provide information and assess local demand for an Educate Together School in the Maynooth area and hold a public launch of a pre-enrollment list.

Educate Together has recently submitted a formal notification of its intention to apply to open a school in the Maynooth area in September 2008 and intends to submit a formal application to the New Schools Advisory Committee at the end of January.

Venue: Room CS1 (Computer Science Lecture Theatre 1), Callan Buildings, North Campus, NUI Maynooth.
Date: 26th January 2008
Time:    Public Meeting 11am - 12 noon.
            Pre-enrollment 12 noon - 2pm

All welcome.

The Kildare Branch of Down Syndrome Ireland (DSI) was recently presented with a cheque for seven thousand seven hundred Euro by Mondello Park, following a benefit day run at the circuit on their behalf.

The Kildare venue gave the track over to a motorcycle track day, where Motorcycle enthusiasts were able to pay to take their bikes out on the full International Mondello circuit, while supporting a worthy cause. The proceeds from the day, less expenses incurred in maintaining safety during the event, were donated to the Kildare Branch of DSI and presented to Peter Merrins and Cora Purcell by Mondello Park Managing Director John Morris.

Speaking following the presentation Kildare DSI Chairperson Peter Merrins said, “Kildare Branch of Down Syndrome Ireland greatly appreciates the overwhelming generosity of Mondello and the Biker fraternity. Not only does the €7,700 raised help to fund our Speech Therapy programme, but the event itself also helped to create awareness and raise the profile of Down Syndrome.”

John Morris said, “We were delighted to assist the Kildare Branch of DSI, by raising much needed funds for such a worthy local cause. We had tried to run an event in 2006, but unfortunately the day had to be cancelled due to excessive wet weather, so it’s particularly gratifying that we were able to raise a reasonable amount for this year.”

The Kildare DSI Track Day came about due to the enthusiasm of member Aidan Lynam. Lynam is a motorcycle enthusiast and regular Mondello track day participant and through his efforts the use of the track was secured. Lynam thanked the circuit for their assistance and also thanked Darren Smith of 'Bike 2 Bike' who provided instruction and organisation on the day free of charge.

Track Days are a safe and enjoyable way for motorcyclists to use the full performance of their machines in a controlled environment. Mondello Park run track days throughout the year with all participants having to adhere to strict safety guidelines. These track days encourage riders to ride safely and above all to keep speed where it belongs, on the track.

John Hume Building JHL1, NUI Maynooth

Hot and sunny Turkey is the setting for 'CLIMATES' Maynooth Film for All, film club's next screening on Thursday 24th January @ 7.30pm

Winner of the Critics Award at last year's Cannes Film Festival, 'CLIMATES' finds Turkish director Nuri Bilge Ceylan examining the nature of relationships and longing. On their summer holidays in Kas architecture lecturer Isa (Nuri Bilge Ceylan) and his partner, TV researcher Bahar (Ebru Ceylan, the director's real-life wife), finally admit their relationship is going nowhere and split up. The autumn finds Isa drawn back to a former lover (Kesal) while Bahar has left Istanbul to work on a TV production in the east of the country. Will the depths of winter see a thaw between the two of them?

If you're a fan of films with long, awkward silences 'Climates' will feel like all your birthdays have come at once - built, as it is around two people who seem unable to say the important things. Like Ceylan's previous film 'Distant' ('Uzak'), it's strong on atmosphere and cinematography as the director and his co-star brood against the backdrop of some stunning visuals. You'll either love it or feel that you're walking backwards in a snowdrift - maybe both depending on the scene.

The comfortable surroundings of the JHL1, lecture hall in the John Hume building, North Campus, Maynooth College is the venue for the club. Denis Condon, Media Studies Department, NUI Maynooth will introduce the film outlining elements of plot, style and details of the social political and cultural context in which the film was made. An opportunity to reflect on the movie will be available following the screening and Denis will lead the discussion.

Membership is open to all over 18yrs. and costs €23.00 for the rest of the season with concessionary rates available to students and senior citizens, plus joining fee to the Library Service if you are not already a member.  For further information and all membership queries please contact: Maynooth Film For All, Maynooth Community Library, Tel: 01 6285530,
Email: maynoothlib@kildarecoco.ie

This initiative is a three-way partnership between The Arts and Library Services of Kildare County Council and The Media Studies Department, NUI Maynooth.

There was a Celebration of Mass in Brannoxtown School on Friday morning, 14th December on the special occasion of the retirement of the school caretaker after many years of service, Mr. Billy Horan. Father Murphy P.P. was the celebrant on the occasion and was joined by Billy’s wife Betty, family members, past and present teachers, past and present pupils, members of Brannockstown Community Committee, The School Board of Management and The Parent’s Association. The Readings, Prayers of the Faithful and the singing of hymns were beautifully done by the pupils under the guidance of the teachers, adding to the personal enjoyment of all who attended.

After the lovely Mass, there were a number of presentations to Billy in appreciation of his dedication and service to Brannoxtown School, all through the years, from the many local organisations involved. The school principal, Ms. Esther Reddy, reminded everyone that the day was to be a happy and thankful celebration for all the children who will sadly miss Billy’s daily attendance and that he would continue to be their friend. Mr. Steve Schwer, Chairperson of Brannockstown Community Committee and Member of the School Board of Management, thanked Billy for all his dedication over the years to Brannoxtown School and wished him well for the future. All who attended expressed these kind sentiments. Billy went on to thank Fr. Murphy, Esther and the teachers, and all who contributed to make the day very memorable, adding he was delighted to see the past principal teachers Fidelma Farrell and Miriam Nolan back in Brannoxtown for the occasion.

While the children returned to their school day, the Parent’s Committee served wonderful refreshments and warm beverages for Billy and all the guests, with a fabulous “Happy Retirement” cake prepared and presented by Ms. Mary Murphy.

In a touching gesture of appreciation, pupils composed poems to commemorate the event. Billy is very happy with them all and acknowledges the effort it took his friends to produce such excellent work. Pupil Conor Dowling wrote:

Billy.

B est school caretaker ever,

I s always ready

L oyal and sweet

L ovely and Kind

Y et he does it for free

H orray for Billy

O ur caretaker

R eady to go

A nd we will miss you

N ever forget us!

Colm O’Brien wrote:

Billy.

B illy was a good man

I liked him very much

L ots of work he done

L ots of people liked him

Y ou would like him too

H e done lots of work

O ver and around the school

R ank ten I would give him

A nd one hundred percent

N o one like him at all.

Picture shows Billy Horan and Fidelma Farrell

With an EU average of one doctor for every 1000 of the population Kildare has a staggering average of 3100 people to every doctor putting it as one of the highest in Ireland and in Europe, according to Cllr Richard Daly of Fine Gael.

“The growth of population in Kildare has not been matched by a similar increase in the provision of GPs and the HSE has not increased the number of GPs to correspond with the demand. Annually hundreds of doctors attempt to qualify as GPs but are turned away by a 121 limit by the HSE. Despite promises to increase this number and despite the proven demand the number of places has failed to increase to 150.

Kildare has the second highest ratio in the country with 3105 potential patients to each doctor while some “lucky” counties like Sligo have a ratio of one doctor to every 1485, which is still 50% greater than the European average.

The shortage of GPs has significant consequences for the health of a county because inevitably diagnosis and treatment are delayed as appointments are more difficult to schedule and this could conceivably put lives at risk. Kildare GPs themselves are under immense pressure to expand patient lists and provide a service to numbers way in excess of what would be the norm anywhere else in Europe.

The Minister for Health needs to examine the situation, particularly in Kildare, as people moving could find that they can’t get included on doctors patient lists. The demand for GPs certainly exists in the county and it is the responsibility of the Minister and the HSE to ensure that there is adequate doctor provision throughout the county.” said Cllr Daly.

Bright Sparks Childcare Centre are seeking an enthusiastic energetic person to take responsibility for further development of our equal opportunities quality Childcare service in North West Kildare.

Bright Sparks Community Childcare Centre at Allenwood, Co Kildare provides quality childcare for 90 children from infants to after school and a wide range of extra activities including Montessori   See Job Description profile at www.acdal.ie

The ideal candidate will have:

•  Excellent Leadership qualities.
•  Proven management and organisational/team skills.
•  Excellent communications skills.
•  Competence in financial aspects of childcare administration.
•  Experience in an appropriate childcare environment.
•  Relevant Childcare Qualifications

Salary in range 40 – 45 K Commensurate with experience.

Applications by e-mail or in writing with CV and one page résumé supporting your application to: 

idonald@acdal.ie

The Project Manager - Childcare, Allenwood Community Development Association Ltd, Allenwood Enterprise Park, Allenwood Nth, Robertstown, Naas, Co Kildare.

Applicants should note that short listing may apply.

Closing Date for receipt of applications is Monday 28January 2008.

ACDAL is an equal opportunities employer

Funded by the Irish Government and part-financed by the
European Union Structural Funds under the National Development Plan 2007-2013

January is traditionally the time of year when people decide to get fit and get healthy, and yet by Feburary many people have found that they have given up and not succeeded in keeping their new year get fit resolution. Many people agree that the key to keeping up the effort is positive motivation and a good support system.

One Kildare based trainer, Brendan Murphy, offers affordable “One to One” Personal Fitness training incorporating nutritional and lifestyle therapy and advice. Brendans has a unique and “no nonsense” approach to health for people who are serious about change. Brendan offers training and consultation at a private, purpose built studio in Kildare where people come on a one to one basis or in small groups to train and  ultimately achieve success. Brendan has a serious approach, with his motto being "NO FADS!  NO GIMMICKS!  NO HYPE!  NO FALSE PROMISES!" and yet Brendan says that you 'don’t need pain to get fit', which is certainly a relief to everyone!

With 13 years as a trainer, sports massage therapist and nutritional advisor, Brendan offers sensible advise. He says that exercise and diet fads and gimmicks, can lead to ill health and that people need to accept there are no magic bullets and quick fixes if you they want success. Instead Brendan advises people to eat an individualised optimum diet and exercise regularly with a specific, personalised program approach. It is important to be realistic and face the truth if you really want to succeed in the long and short term.

For more information or to arrange a free consultation from Brendan call 087 787 4050 or visit his website at www.personaltraining.ie to find out more about this unique service in Kildare.

Christmas is not long gone before people start thinking what they can do to treat their loved ones for Valetines. This Feburary, Russborough House are providing a romantic evening of love songs on Feb 16th. Although not on Valentines itself, tickets to the event would be a nice present for Valentines day.

Visitors will enjoy a candle lit evening of Classical favourites in the wonderful 'Salon' at Russborough House, Blessington.

Love Songs, Arias and Duets by Puccini, Mozart and Tosti will be  intermingled with Irish favourites from Moore and Balfe. Una furtiva Lagrima, O Mio Babino Caro, Ah Vucella and O Solo Mio to name but a few. The songs will be performed by Bryan Hoey, Tenor. Brendan MacQuaile, Baritone. Catrina Scullion, Soprano and  Marie Power, Mezzo.

Saturday 16th Feb'08 at 20.00. Tickets €25 incl Complementary glass of wine or soft drink.

Final traffic statististics for 2007 show that 5.3 million visitors accessed 12.4 million pages from Kildare Community Network.

Most popular website on the network was the County Council site, with 1.3 million visitors.

The overall figures represent a 30% increase in visits to kildare.ie over 2006.

Diageo Ireland and Punchestown Racecourse have announced a three year extension to the sponsorship of the Guinness Gold Cup at the Punchestown Festival.

The prize fund for the race will increase to 300,000 euros during the lifetime of the sponsorship, making the Guinness Gold Cup the richest Grade 1 championship chase in Ireland.

Dick O' Sullivan, General Manager of Punchestown said, "We are looking forward to our first ever five day festival at Punchestown this year and delighted to have the support of Guinness to drive the festival forward."

The five-day Punchestown National Hunt festival will run from Tuesday 22nd to Saturday 26th April.

The Tuesday Class, YOUR chance to DANCE, restarts in January 2008 at Riverbank Arts Centre.

A dance experience for adults, during which the body, mind and spirit are engaged. The class is for anyone interested in exploring how the body moves through time and space and in using their body as a creative tool. The work combines the fitness elements of contemporary dance techniques together with the relaxation of release work and the celebration of creative dance and dance making experiences.

Classes are limited in number. Fees: €100 per term of 10 classes. Book early and get a discount.

For start date, booking and information e-mail- fluxusdance@ireland.com or contact Riverbank on 045 448333 or Cathy on 045- 531 555 or 086- 8201328

The National Concert Hall children’s workshops are coming to the Riverbank Arts Centre in Newbridge in February 2008.

Facilitated by a team of professional musicians from the National Concert Hall’s Education & Community Outreach programme, children will get the opportunity to discover the world of music in a fun and inter-active environment that will also assist in the musical development of the child. No previous musical experience is required.

Children will be introduced to singing, musical games, percussion and various instruments during these hour-long workshops. Children are accompanied by their parents/guardians in these workshops, making it a fun activity for the family.

Further details and contact information are on the Riverbank website at www.riverbank.ie

Kildare Water Safety have arranged water safety classes in various locations in County Kildare for the New Year.

Kildare Water Safety are a voluntary organisation running public water safety classes under the Irish Water Safety authority, and also promote the sport of surf lifesaving in Kildare.

Classes in Celbridge are fully subscribed, but there are places available in:

• the Curragh from the end of January 2008 for 10 weeks
• Naas from early January for 10 weeks
• Athy - dates to be announced

Further details can be found on their website at www.kildarewatersafety.ie