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VillageMacari’s takeaway in Tallaght Village provide the best service in Takeaway in Tallaght. We provide a wide range of meals including our famous “Macari’s Special Burger” and the best value Kids Meals. Our delivery service is top class where your food will be delivered to your door quickly and piping hot + on Friday and Saturday we deliver until 3am. We also always have daily specials. Please see in store for more details and our new Takeaway menu. We would like to wish all our customers and friends a very happy and peaceful Christmas.

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Following a number of meetings with and a recent discussion at the Gardai station in Rathcoole, Fine Gael TD Derek Keating met with local senior officers regarding concern of closure, Mr. Keating wrote to the Minister for Justice Alan Shatter TD and the Garda Commissioner in early September to ensure that the service which involves a division of 25 Garda remains operational and the Station remains open. He pointed out to the Garda authorities the important role that Rathcoole station plays especially on the main dual carriage way to the south. The

Minister pointed out that the Justice Sector is engaged in a very significant reform programme which, in the current climate, is not just desirable but is an absolute necessity if we are to manage essential public services within the limited resources at our disposal.

Garda will be on patrol more than ever and Rathcoole will play its part in ensuring that the surrounding areas of Saggart Newcastle and Brittas continue to be covered by their local station.

Rathcoole Gardai station will remain Open says Keating

The ISPCC have launched its 3rd annual National Children’s Consultation report ‘Not bottled up inside’. This survey of over 14,000 young people highlights how a robust system of support can act as a buffer against stress leading to reduced feelings of anxiety and fear in young people. The report found that young people who say that they have family around when they need them and can count on their friends also report feeling less nervous, afraid and sad than young people who say that they do not have these supports in place.

Young people pinpoint family life and friends as the factors that affect them most but there were marked differences in who children feel cares about them and who they turn to as they get older. Young children were more likely to say that a family member cared about their feelings whereas older children tended to select a friend. Boys were also less likely to report feelings of anxiety with twice as many boys as girls

saying that they had never felt nervous.

While the findings confirm that individuals are more likely to seek help from family and friends in times of crisis last year the ISPCC Childline service received 6,673 calls in relation to mental and emotional health perhaps indicating that for some young people this support isn’t always readily available.

Key Findings:

1. Family life was found to have the most impact on emotional wellbeing (44%) followed by Friends (42%) and School (36%)

2. The number of young people who report a family member as someone who cares about their feelings declines with age; from 80% of 10-12 year olds to 58% of 16+ year olds.

3. 15% said they could not really talk about problems with their family

4. 63% of children aged 10 -12 years said

that they would definitely know where to go for support as opposed to only 44% of young people aged 16 years plus

5. Over 700 young people (5%) said there was not a family member around when they needed them.

Tess Noonan, Manager said ‘In shining a spot light on social support and how critical it is for protecting mental health it has emerged just how family and friends can make the difference between feeling nervous and afraid all the time to feeling that you have someone you can count on in a crisis. The reality is that young people who report a poorer level of social support are more likely to report feeling nervous and sad and that ‘everything is difficult for them’ a lot or all of the time. Sharing a problem can really help as surmised by one young person surveyed who said they ‘felt better because it’s not bottled up inside anymore’.

Key Recommendations:

There is an urgent need to further

develop and adequately resource community support services in order to equip families and communities to better support children’s emotional and mental health needs.

Family Support projects, focussing on prevention and early intervention can help increase the cohesiveness of family and community support structures making it more likely that young people can draw on readily available supports, such as talking to families about problems, when needed.

The dearth of support services for children aged 16 years plus needs to be addressed particularly in the area of child and adolescent mental health services. Young people in this age group have only a short window of opportunity to avail of an age appropriate support service before they move into adult services so it is vital that they receive the support they need at this critical period in their life.

SPCC Highlights the Need for Social Support to Help Protect Children’s Mental Health




TCC, celebrating it’s 40th birthday this year, extends a hearty congratulations to the new Tallaght Person

of the Year 2012, Norman Kelly who was award the honour at the 29th Tallaght person of the Year awards in The Maldron hotel, on Friday, 23rd of November.

The capacity 300 crowd in the Shannon suite were buzzing with excitement and positivity as the 60 nominees in the 8 categories were listed by TCC and the special guest local comedienne, June Rogers. The panel of 5 independent judges ( Michael Mc Bennett, Bridie Horan, Mary Dara, AJ Cooke and James Barry) had a difficult job to decide a winner for each category due to the high calibre of the nominees this year.

“ It was a well needed injection

of positivity for Tallaght after a very challenging year. Everyone nominated is a winner here tonight and a vital part of their community. We salute them. “ said Jim Lawlor, chairman.

The full list of winners are: Arts & Culture - Exquisite Dance School, Nicola kelly, Seskin View. Business - Peter Geoghane, Associated Rewinds, Whitestown. Community - Andy Doogue, Saint Vincent De Paul. Environment - John Murphy & the Bohernabreena Tractor rally committee Heart of Golds - Eimear Ward, Old Bawn Niamh Gavin, Ferncourt ,Zach Mc Loughlin, Citywest , Jack Mc Mahon, Jobstown ,Special Needs & Carers - Marcella Finnerty, Killinarden, Village Counselling Service Sports - St Annes GAA club, Bohernabreena ,Youth - MC Teens foroige club, Kiltalawn.

The full house erupted when TCC presented 2 special merit awards for different types of bravery shown by Tallaght residents.

Michael Doyle, Fettercairn ran into a burning neighbour’s house to rescue his neighbours with no regard for his own safety.

Laura Blighe, Ellensborough, showed brave entrepreneurship when made unemployed by starting up her own business in a recession, Lots of Bling !

The loudest applause was reserved for the announcement of the Tallaght Person of the Year 2012, Norman Kelly from Aylesbury, formerly Brookfield.

Norman has run a kickboxing club, The Blackpanthers for 20 years in Brookfield. He attracted nominations from as far a field as Thailand, where his ex student is now a professional kickboxer, thanks to Norman’s dedication.

Norman is committed to his members and his club, providing a life changing opportunity for many young people to engage in a positive activity, while developing their physical well being and attitude to discipline. Many of his nominators stated that simply put, Norman had changed the course of their lives for the better over 2 decades.

TCC are delighted to have had all corners of Tallaght represented in the 8 category nominees and to see nominations coming in from all parts of Tallaght. Without the community themselves taking the time to nominate their friend, neighbour or family member, the awards would not be possible and the often silent heros would remain anonymous to the wider community.

“The online nomination form has been a huge step in us reaching every community across Tallaght - from Bohernabreena to Belgard to Bolbrook. The number of nominations and the fact we sold out the largest hotel venue in Tallaght is testament to the reinvigorated interest and support of this community initiative. Many groups made a night of it as the full dance floor proved ! It was a thoroughly enjoyable, feel good night. “ said Tara De Buitlear, PRO. “ In particular we would like to thank the local groups who entertained the capacity crowd, Tallaght Youth Band, Scoil Rince Ni hOgain and Level Heads.”

TCC also need to thank reverently the local, loyal sponsors, who are repeatedly the lifeblood of the awards. They are:

The Square Kiltipper Sports Café Roadstone Ahernes Dunnes Stores The Echo Tesco AIB

PTSB The Old Mill The Dragon Inn Citywest shopping centre Kevin Tunney solicitors The Abberley Hotel The Maldron Hotel Breathnachs Bargains Tallaght Adventure World IMC Cinema Leisureplex Knights hairdressers Kingsbury Furniture studio The Balloon Man (Glen Abbey) Justynes Flowers Celines Flowers The Cuckcoos Nest Ulster Bank SDCC CadburyUnilever

TCC are already looking forward to the 30 awards next year, the year of The Gathering 2013 and are appealing to any group or individual who has an hour to spare each month to join forces with them to help make next year’s awards the biggest yet ! TCC look forward to working with Norman to encourage more volunteerism in the coming year and to host a 2 day festival next summer to encourage Tallaght natives to celebrate the town and country traditions here in Tallaght.

Tallaght Community Council congratulates the new 29th Tallaght Person of the Year 2012, Norman Kelly




Merry Christmas !

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New Monster Truck from Fiat

FIAT has commissioned a FIAT Panda “Monster Truck” prototype for use in a new television advertisement due to air in 2013. The new FIAT Panda “Monster Truck” TV spot will help create awareness of the FIAT Panda 4X4 Climbing and is the latest in a series of advertisements which are underpinned by the strapline “New Panda, Panda Exaggerated”. Previous advertisements have featured a FIAT Panda “Scooter” and a FIAT Panda “Cargo Plane”, highlighting the new city car’s manoeuvrability and spaciousness.

The FIAT Panda Monster Truck stands 3.9m tall, is 3.8m wide and rides on tractor wheels and tyres that are a whopping 1.5m in diameter. Built by FIAT in collaboration with Mercurio Cinematografica, production designer Andrea Faini and L’Officina di Fabio Gementi, the fully-functional FIAT Panda Monster truck merges a FIAT Panda 4X4 Climbing body with the chassis of a Jeep CJ7 4200 and took two weeks to complete.

What to do over the coming months:

There will be no doubt, that the changes in the budget will affect everyone, as last years budget did.

Overall last years budget was a scatter gun approach targeting everyone, mainly on indirect taxes, such as VAT, fuel costs, school and children allowances.

This year’s budget could take up to €1000 per annum from the average family pay packet. The main areas include property tax, cuts to child benefit PRSI, and motor tax.

It will be more important than ever to :

Maximise your monthly Income and reduce your monthly Expenditure in 2013:

Your first exercise after the budget is to calculate your net income. You will notice income changes after you receive one or two pay packets. I would suggest you guestimate at least a 10% reduction to your pay packet.

List out all your monthly costs, don’t forget to add some cost in for yearly medical bills, presents, and other family bills, above all be honest and try not to forget any costs.

Manage all your costs very tightly in 2013, and make sure your search for the cheapest options, eg shopping bills, Insurance, and mobile phone. You could conservatively add 5%-10% to current expenditure, to cover all additional budget costs in 2013. Only include mortgage and other priority secured debt payments in these expenses. All other monthly secondary debt repayments, eg credit card, credit union, should be left out of these calculations.

If you have any money left over after all your calculations, this is the amount that is to be allocated to the unsecured creditors. This is called your MDI (monthly disposable income), for your creditors. This figure will either be positive or negative. If its negative you may have to increase your income by other means, or reduce your expenditure, to make sure your cash flow matches.

If you have additional debt costs, it would be wise to discuss all options with Moneyvillage.ie.

If the figure is positive, and covers your debt repayments, well done, you are managing your finances very well, but make sure you put some money by for emergencies, and lump sum costs, such as holidays, school fees, and medical costs.

If the figure is positive but does not cover your additional debt costs, then you need to re-negotiate your monthly debt repayments. Talk to Moneyvillage.ie to get best advice on how to contact and deal with creditors, and you may need some advice on the upcoming Personal Insolvency Legislation.

Above all if you get a shock, when you

complete this exercise, do not panic, thousands of people are in difficulty, so make sure you get good advice on how to tackle your finances.

Personal debts: The following points are crucial when dealing with your secured and unsecured creditors.

1.Don’t make the mistake of ignoring demand letters or phone calls from unsecured creditors. Contact them as soon as possible ideally by phone first. Even if this is just to say that you want to work out a suitable repayment plan.

2.Discuss every conceivable option to allow you pay the minimum amount possible based on your income and expenditure.

3.Always ask them to temporarily freeze the interest and late repayment charges as that they are adding to your loan and because of this it can affect your ability to pay what they are demanding. Negotiate!

4.Ask them not to issue any legal proceedings until every available option is looked into.

5.Be honest about your present circumstances and calculate exactly the amount you can afford to pay after you deduct household costs e.g. mortgage, utility bills, family groceries and children’s costs. You need to work out how much you can afford to repay towards your loans and you should distribute what you can afford evenly amongst them pro-rata to how much you owe.

6.If you have lost your job you may have to appoint a debt management company to negotiate to allow you breathing space to clear the debt.

7.Keep a record of everything – including phone calls from both sides. Ideally write to the creditor after agreement is reached by phone to document discussions properly.

Mostly these tips refer only to your unsecured creditors such as credit card companies, store cards, student loans, and other loans such as overdrafts or personal loans. Secured loans such as your mortgage, rent arrears or car hire purchase agreements should be your first priority and you should ensure that you deal with these first or facing having them repossessed.

HOW THE PROBLEM IS COMPOUNDED

1. Ignoring the debt problem is one of the main causes of escalating debt as interest on outstanding loans mount up.

2.Failure to work out a budget because you feel the situation is so hopeless

3.Using credit cards to fund other debts

4.Reacting too quickly to creditors

who ‘shout the loudest’ as opposed to dealing with the most serious debt i.e. mortgages

5.Forgetting to include occasional items such as school expenses, Christmas etc. when paying out money you can’t afford to clear old debts

6. Being unrealistic about basic needs such food, fuel, clothing etc. – many families, when paying too much per month to outstanding creditors, have little or no money left for day to day living

Not informing your creditors that you are in difficulty. Even worse not communicating with them at all hoping the problem will go away!

7.When a deal is struck with a creditor, not maintaining the agreement makes the situation even worse

8.Borrowing money to pay off existing debts. This just increases your outgoings and delays the problem

9.Not attending court hearings or having representation.

Coping with the 2012/2013 Budget Austerity & dealing with personal debts: TIPS

10. Not prioritizing mortgage and rent repayments – the most important debt of all – your home should be the number one debt on your agenda

11.Divorce or separation is a major contributory factor to increased debt.

12.Bad health prevents you from dealing with a very difficult stressful situation – this can cause further health problems

13. Debt problems as a result of tax defaults – especially if you are a sole trader where their business overdraft was ‘personally guaranteed’

Eugene McDarby is CEO of Moneyvillage Ltd, and Chairman of the Debt Management Association of Ireland.

Call 1890 987989 or ask our expert Eugene McDarby online at

www.moneyvillage.ie

DEBT MANAGEMENT ASSOCIATION OF IRELANDCOPYRIGHT MONEYVILLAGE.IE




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MALONE & C OCHARTERED C ERTIFIED A CC OUNTANTS , R EGISTERED A UDITORS & CHARTERED T AX A DVISORS

As you deck the halls this holiday season, be fire-smart. A small fire that spreads to a Christmas tree can grow large very quickly.

PICKING THE TREE -Choose a tree with fresh, green needles that do not fall off when touched. The branches should bend and not easily snap.

PLACING THE TREE -Before placing the tree in the stand, cut 1–2” from the base of the trunk. -Make sure the tree is at least three feet away from any heat source, like fireplaces, radiators, candles, heat vents or lights. A heat source too close to the tree causes one in every five of Christmas tree fires. -Make sure the tree is not blocking an exit. -Add water to the tree stand daily.

LIGHTING THE TREE -Use lights that have the label of an independent testing laboratory. Some lights are only

Christmas Tree Safetyfor indoor or outdoor use. -Replace any string of lights with worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections. Connect no more than three strands of mini string sets and a maximum of 50 bulbs for screw-in bulbs. Read manufacturer’s instructions for number of LED strands to connect. One of every three home Christmas tree fires are caused by electrical problems -Never use lit candles to decorate the tree. -Always turn off Christmas tree lights before leaving home or going to bed.

AFTER CHRISTMAS -Get rid of the tree after Christmas or when it is dry. -Dried-out trees are a fire danger and should not be left in the home or garage, or placed outside against the home. -Bring outdoor electrical lights inside after the holidays to prevent hazards and make them last longer.

Ps. This is just a little advice we picked up and hopefully it will be helpful.

Fine Gael Councillor Brian Lawlor said that the domestic violence figures released by Safe Ireland reveal with shocking clarity what is happening to women and children in homes across the country. The figures show that the number of women receiving support from domestic violence charities has more than doubled in the last five years. “There has been a dramatic increase in the numbers of women and children seeking help over the last five years. One can only presume that the pressure on families due to the economic crisis is having a significant impact,” he stated. “The high level of phone calls received by support services, with many repeat callers, underlines the need for on-going support. It is a credit to the agencies involved that the number of women receiving face-to-face supports has increased by 68% since 2007. “Breaking the silence is key to tackling domestic violence. We need to

consider how we address this problem as a society. It cannot be simply attributed to a negative knock-on effect of our challenging economic situation; when the country was awash with money, women and children were still being abused in their own homes,” he continued. “The Government’s new Child and Family Support Agency, which will be up and running in the New Year, will allow for intervention at an early stage to deal with issues like domestic violence. New models of delivery will also ensure full integration between State services and voluntary resources. “Introducing a more transparent family court system will also help to lift the lid on domestic violence. We need to know what is happening in families in crisis if we are to bring about a change in how we tackle this problem. Victims of domestic violence must be given the courage to come forward, and the knowledge that they will be responded to with support and compassion,” Councillor Lawlor concluded.

Breaking the silence is key to tackling domestic violence




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Ely’s Kitchen

Serve warm with lashings of brandy butter. This year will be the first year we have family coming to stay with us over Christmas and I want to get it just right, tasty treats and yummy meals to keep everyone happy, but most of all I would like to surprise them with something traditional that we all love to eat. In this issue I am going to share with you my favourite mince pies recipe - it is just so simple and the results every time are fantastic. Ingredients

• 350g/12oz high quality mincemeat, preferably homemade

• 200g/7oz plain flour, sifted• 40g/1½oz golden caster sugar• 75g/2¾oz ground almonds• 125g/4½oz unsalted butter, diced• 1 large free-range egg, beaten• milk, to glaze

Preparation method

1.Lightly butter a 12-hole pie or patty tin. Tip the mincemeat into a bowl and stir so that the liquid is evenly distributed.

2.Place the flour, sugar, almonds and butter in a food processor and process briefly until resembling breadcrumbs, then slowly add the egg through the feeder tube. (Or rub the butter into the

dry ingredients by hand and stir in the egg.)

3.Bring the mixture together with your hands, wrap in clingfilm and chill for an hour or so. Thinly roll out the pastry on a floured surface. Cut out 12 circles with a fluted pastry cutter, large enough to fill the base of the prepared tin. Press gently into each hole, then fill with the mincemeat.

4.Cut out another 12 slightly smaller discs and use to cover the mincemeat. Press the edges together to seal. Make a small slit in the top of each, then brush lightly with milk. Chill for about 30 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 200C/400F/Gas 6.

5.Bake the pies for 20 minutes until golden brown. Remove to a wire rack and serve warm.

X-mas Mince Pies

Hundreds of families in the Dublin area will have their turkey and ham on Christmas Day this year, courtesy of Brendan O’Carroll. The comedian and creator of the phenomenally successful Mrs Brown’s Boys has donated a substantial number of vouchers for turkey and ham to the Dublin region of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul (SVP). As a result many families who might have missed out on this traditional Christmas meal will not be disappointed. Andy Doogue, President of the SVP Dublin Region thanked Brendan O’Carroll. “This is a really generous donation given in an imaginative yet practical way. This year in

Christmas dinner for hundreds in Dublin thanks to Mrs Brown

particular we are receiving requests for food more than ever. Our volunteers will ensure that families who are most in need will benefit from Brendan O’Carroll’s generosity.” Calls for support to the SVP in Dublin have been increasing substantially in recent years. This year the region estimates that it will have received 75,000 calls for support. Andy Doogue said, “ With such a level of calls our resources are fully stretched and we welcome all donations, whether financial or in the form of goods which can either be distributed directly to those in need or sold in our Vincent shops. The Irish public have been extremely generous to the SVP in the past and we are dependent on them to continue their support into the future.”




Name:................................................................................................................................................................Age:.................................................

Phone Number:.........................................................Address:.....................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Kid’s Corner

Send your name and contact number to:

Tallaght Express,The Kennedy Building,

Main Street,Tallaght, D24

And you will be in the draw to win a Family Pass to

Tallaght Adventure World

Mia Davav

is

Age: 5

Last Weeks W

inner

of our

colouring

competiti

on

The week’s funnies(1) What is the difference between the Christ-mas alphabet and the ordinary alphabet?

The Christmas alphabet has no l (noel).

(2) What does a cat on the beach have in common with Christmas?

Sandy claws.

(3) What do you get if Santa goes down the chimney when a fire is lit?

Crisp Cringle.

(4) How does Good King Wenceslas like his pizzas?

Deep pan, crisp and even!

(5) What is green, white, and red all over?

A sunburnt elf.

Colouring Competition




Christmas Tales Prince Bertie the Frog

Prince Bertie the Frog has always considered himself to be something of a comedian. His speciality is penguin jokes. He is delighted when he is asked to do a Christmas Eve performance of his stand-up comedy act at a pond in a neighbouring kingdom.

Bertie and Tim the Tadpole plan to fly back to their own pond in time for Christmas Day. Unfortunately, snow and fog is disrupting all the transport. They find themselves at a bus depot with a motley collection of creatures, including a penguin.

The Gold Wrapping Paper

Once upon a time, there was a man who worked very hard just to keep food on the table for his family. This particular year a few days before Christmas, he punished his little five-year-old daughter after learning that she had used up the family’s only roll of expensive gold wrapping paper. As money was tight, he became even more upset when on Christmas Eve he saw that the child had used all of the expensive gold paper to decorate one shoebox she had put under the Christmas tree. He also was concerned about where she had gotten money to buy what was in the shoebox.

Nevertheless, the next morning the little girl, filled with excitement, brought the gift box to her father and said, “This is for you, Daddy!” As he opened the box, the father was embarrassed by his earlier overreaction, now regretting how he had punished her. But when he opened the shoebox, he found it was empty and again his anger flared. “Don’t you know, young lady,” he said harshly, “when you give someone a present, there’s supposed to be something inside the package!” The little girl looked up at him with sad tears rolling from her eyes and whispered: “Daddy, it’s not empty. I blew kisses into it until it was all full.” The father was crushed. He fell on his knees and put his arms around his precious little girl. He begged her to forgive him for his unnecessary anger. An accident took the life of the child only a short time later. It is told that the father kept this little gold box by his bed for all the years of his life. Whenever he was discouraged or faced difficult problems, he would open the box, take out an imaginary kiss, and remember the love of this beautiful child who had put it there. In a very real sense, each of us has been given an invisible golden box filled with unconditional love and kisses from our children, family, friends and God. There is no more precious possession anyone could hold.




Tallaghts best are in Tallaght Express

Call James now on:085-1184708 / [email protected]

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Christmas Annuals donated worth €50,000 Christmas can be a tough time of year for Ireland’s sick children, so this year Folens have teamed up with the charity Children in Hospital Ireland to introduce some fun and colour into the various children’s wards all over the country. Folens

are donating 12,500 of their Christmas annuals, to more than 20 children’s wards across the country, including Tallaght Hospital where the campaign was launched today.

From Tralee to Letterykenny and Wexford to Mayo, Folens and CHI will be delivering €50,000 worth of annuals – various editions of Sugradh, Siamsa, Sonas and Spraoi - from today just in time for the festive season. Children of all ages will be able to enjoy the stories, art projects and puzzles within all December long..

Mary O’ Connor, CEO of Children in Hospital Ireland, said; “CHI is a voluntary organisation committed to promoting and ensuring the welfare of all children in hospital and their families. We are absolutely thrilled that Folens have chosen to help us make life a little brighter for the thousands of children who will unfortunately have

to spend time in hospital this Christmas.

“Being in hospital is scary for anyone but especially for children. Children in Hospital Ireland’s dedicated PlayWell volunteers provide regular, normal recreation and play opportunities for child patients in

hospitals throughout the country. The gift of these wonderful annuals will make a great difference to the children’s day.

Mary continued “Already our PlayWell volunteers report that the children are having hours of enjoyment with the stories, activities, puzzles and games designed for children of all ages. Parents are telling us that the annuals have made the stay in hospital easier for them also – on behalf of all I would like to say a great big thank you to Folens!”

Shane Stafford, Sales and Marketing Director at Folens, said; “As we are located in Tallaght it was only natural for us to launch this campaign here today at the National Children’s Hospital. We are fully aware of the amazing work done here and in children’s wards up and down the country and we hope this gesture will help make life a little more fun for our most important people.”

To learn more about CHI and the work they do, please log on to childreninhospital.ie or locall 1890 25 26 82

Festive cheer for Ireland’s

children’s wardsFolens team up with Children in

Hospitals Ireland for Christmas this year

Laura (3) & Emma Mahoney (5) pictured with Folens marketing director and Mary Gantley from CHI Tallaght Volunteers.




The Dublin SPCA would like to make an urgent appeal to anyone who is considering purchasing a puppy/dog for Christmas and ask them to please be vigilant with regard to where this puppy/dog comes from.

Every day, we deal with people regarding animal welfare issues and it concerns usgreatly when we receive calls from pet owners; especially at Christmas time, who tell us they’ve purchased their pet from the back of someone’s car or boot, only to #nd the animal has become dangerously ill very quickly, often dying within 24 hours of them getting it home.We’ve received a number of calls relating to such incidents in the past week.Because of this, the Dublin SPCA has issued the following guidelines.If you are looking for a puppy/dog this Christmas (or at any time of the year), please go to a shelter and adopt one.

If you decide not to adopt from a shelter and opt to go to a breeder, then follow these simple guidelines:» Research dogs that interest you and #nd out which breed is rightfor you and your family/environment.» Go to an IKC registered, licensed breeder.» Insist on seeing the puppy’s parents

– examine and check fortemperament/mental and physical condition/eye problems/otherrelated health problems speci#c to your breed of choice.» Inspect the environment where the puppy was kept and never,ever agree to meet the breeder half way or in a car park; at a petrol station, on

the side of the road, etc, insist on visiting the premises. We cannot stress this point enough.» Ask about inherited conditions from the animal’s parents/grandparents.» Does the puppy come with a veterinary certi#cate of health?Speak to the vet.

» Dogs are adults longer than they are puppies so make certain youare familiar with the adult type of yourchosen breed. Remember it’s important you maintain good contact with your puppy’s breeder and understand you’re committing to this animal’s care for the rest of its life.A responsible, registered, breeder will welcome your commitment.If you’re uncomfortable or have any concerns,contact your local animal welfare shelter. The Dublin SPCA can be contacted at 01-4994700However, if, having read our guidelines, you still wish to go ahead and purchase a puppy/dog from somebody you’ve met in a car park, petrol station, side of the road, etc., then please take the followingprecautions in the event your puppy suddenly becomes ill.» Get the car make, model and registrationnumber.» Pay special attention to the person sellingyou the puppy; physical description, anyidentifying features/details, etc.,

For more information log onto www.dspca.ie oremail me [email protected]

Thinking of Buying a Puppy

A NINTH Harry Potter film is secretly being shot — but fans of the boy wizard will have to visit one of his theme parks to see it.

The eighth big-screen movie based on JK Rowling’s books had been billed as the final one.

But Helena Bonham Carter, 46, is among cast members who have been filming scenes at the Potter studios in Hertfordshire — reprising her role as witch Bellatrix Lestrange.

A source confirmed: “The cast have really enjoyed getting back together — they are so tight-knit.”

Harry Potter 9 ?Fine Gael Councillor Brian Lawlor is asking people in Tallaght to try to do as much of their Christmas shopping locally this Christmas. “Given that everyone is watching their money, particularly at this time of year, I would ask people to give our local traders the business where possible,” he said. “Local businesses are feeling the pinch more than ever and any support given to them would benefit the whole area,” he added. “The ripple effect of supporting our local traders is greater then you might imagine. Some of the benefits to shopping local include:· Stimulating the local economy: Local

businesses are more likely to utilise other local services and suppliers. So the money you invest is re-invested in other businesses.

· Creating and maintaining jobs in our town: Small local businesses are the largest employers in Ireland. The less people that have long distances to commute to work, the better for the economy and the environment.

· Local business owners invest in the community.

· Competition and diversity results in greater consumer choice.

“We have wonderful stores in Tallaght, with traders who are to be admired for their resilience and innovation. Nobody wants to see anymore store or business closures. So given this is a time of year where we will all spend money on presents for others, whatever the budget, please give some thought about using your euros to the best advantage for everyone,” Councillor Lawlor concluded.

Councillor urges consumers to shop local for Christmas




Some Fun facts About Christmas

XMASIn Greek, X means Christ; that is where the word “Xmas” comes from!

Christmas World Records

The world’s largest Christmas present was the Statue of Liberty. The French gave it to the US in 1886. It is 46.5 meters high and weights 225 tons!

“Green” Christmas

It can take up to 15 years to grow an average-sized tree of 6-7 feet or as little as 4 years, but the average growing time is 7!

Christmas Songs

Bing Crosby ‘s ‘White Christmas’ was released in 1942 and is considered to be the best-selling Christmas song of all time!

Christmas Statistics

• 1 in 10 – The number of the presents received that will be broken by the New Year

• 7 in 10 – The number of dogs that get Christmas gifts from their owners

• 33 – The average amount spent per person on last-minute purchases

• 25 – The percentage time spent in queues when Christmas shopping

• 832 – The number of homes Santa visits every second to deliver all his presents

• 5340 – Average number of times Visa Cards are used every minute during Christmas time

• Traditional Christmas Sweets

• FRANCE: Buche de Noel (a Génoise or other sponge cake, baked in a large Swiss roll pan)

• USA: Pumpkin Cake (with cinnamon and ginger, frosted with cream cheese frosting)

• SPAIN: Nougat (made with sugar or honey, roasted nuts)

• HUNGARY: Beigli (roll of sweet yeast bread with a dense, rich, bittersweet filling)

• ITALY: Panettone (is a type of sweet bread loaf originally from Milan)

• SWEDEN: Pepparkakor (heart-star and goat-shaped gingerbread biscuit)

• PORTUGAL: Pain Perdu (French toast made with bread and eggs, milk, sugar and cinnamon)

• GERMANY: Lebkuchen (large cookies made of honey)

Send Your Novena’s to:[email protected]

NOVENA’SThis is a Free Service

This is a free service for non-profit organizations

This is a free service for non-profit organizations

Contact:

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NOVENA ASK SAINT CLARE

For 3 favours, 1 business, 2 impossible. Say 9 hail Marys for 9 days.

Pray whether you believe or not. Publish on the ninth days. May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be

praised, adored today and every day. Request will be granted no

matter how impossible it seems. Publication must be promised. Sacred Heart of Jesus be praised, adored and glorified today forever and always.

DEAR HEART OF JESUS

In the past I have asked for many favours. This time I ask you for this special favour (mention favour). Take it , dear Jesus, and place it within

your own broken heart where your Father sees it. Then in His merciful eyes it will

become your favour and not mine. Publication promised.

Matilda Hopkins age 4yrs at her dancing competition inFinnstown House recently




Tallaght Express & Browns Barn have teamed up to give you a meal for 2 + a bottle of wine to the value of €50.

All you have to do to be in with a chance of winning this wonderful prize is Like and Share it on Tallaght Express Facebook page or text your name to: 0867958133

Tallaght Express would like to wish all our customers, readers and friends a very Happy Christmas and Peaceful New Year.




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5




Horoscopes Horoscopes for 2013

Aries

The year 2013 would be dynamic for you throughout in all phases of your life. Your role in society and family shall get reinforced for the better. You shall turn out to be a helping

hand for those around you. Your relationships shall be taken to a higher level.

Taurus

Life would be a song with not much troubles for you in this year of 2013. Make full use

of your creativity to come up in life this period. In generally peace and tranquility would prevail in your life. Your status in

life improves and you shall be able to get the comforts in life you had yearned for all

these years.

Gemini

You will be able to consolidate your plans and efforts this year of 2013. You shall be able to reach the crown of your ambitions this year. The planetary positions shall help you in this regard, helping you to reach your targets in

life.

Cancer

Your toils in previous years shall bring forth good results in this year of 2013. There would be a general growth in all area of your life.

Success shall come in packets for you much to your delight.

Your resolutions would be able to take wings now.

Leo

Events shall flow with a better spark and

schedule this year for you. Relationships shall

enter into new deals and you shall be able to reap the fruits of your previous year’s

projects.

Virgo

Your pace this year would be very speedy in all your endeavors. Things shall start to consolidate

in your life this time of your life. Some sort of security threat shall bother you. In general all

your areas shall see a better performance than the previous few years

Libra

This year 2013 shall see many of your long term plans and ideas taking wings. Your

conscience and values might be put to test as the year progresses. There would be a period which would be devoid of any sort

of inspirations as well. Much of your personal and

financial needs shall materialize.

Scorpio Year 2013 shall

help you to resume the works you had

done in the previous years. The planets are lurking around ready to harm though. You

would be going through a period of much trials and temptations in life

this period. Relax, retreat and rejuvenate for your betterment.

Sagittarus

This year 2013 shall bring in a new leash in your life. All the obstacles and hindrances

you faced in the previous years shall vanish into thin air. You shall put into a better

optimistic phase of your life. All restrictions and constraints in your life shall fly away.

Capricorn

The year 2013 shall help you to see life in a new light and it shall diversify your priorities in life. There would be more time for you to relax and rejuvenate than the previous year.

However much tolerance ought to be exercised in life. A more serene atmosphere is in store

fro you this year.

Aquarius

This year of 2013 would be much more peaceful and serene than you had imagined. It would be a period of huge possibilities with

vast growth opportunities for the future. Situations calling for much actions on your

side would be met now. Make sure that your impulsive actions do not bounce back on you.

Pisces

There would be good progress in your life this year. There would be much action and new ventures coming up in your life. You shall be able to get the good connections of people

higher up in the society. Your confidence level would be boosted up and you would be able to

live up to your ideals.




Taoiseach Enda Kenny met with US Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton last week at Government Buildings following her appearance at the 19th Ministerial Council of the OSCE this morning.

Asked if she had any message of hope for the Irish people, Secretary of State Clinton offered a strong endorsement of Ireland’s performance saying:

After years of economic turmoil we are delighted to see Ireland on the rebound.

The Taoiseach has taken a number of very tough important steps that have placed Ireland on the right track.

This has not been easy.

I understand the real sacrifice, even suffering, that many people have gone through because of the economic challenges

But the view from the United States is of the resilience, the hard work and the determination of the Irish people.

The United States is confident in our economic partnership with Ireland. Our foreign direct investment here already tops 191 billion dollars, which is more than US companies have invested in Brazil, Russia, India and China combined.

So, don’t just take my word for it, take our investors actions and look at what they’re doing which is understanding that investing in Ireland is a good bet for the future.

Pictured is Tánaiste Eamon Gilmore with U.S. Secretary of State Hilary Clinton at the RDS

Hillary Clinton offers endorsement of Ireland’s performance

MALONEY WELCOMES THE SAVING

OF ESTATE MANAGEMENT

JOBS The allocation of funds for the Estate Management projects in Fettercairn and Killinarden has been welcomed by Eamonn Maloney TD. “The additional funding from the Department of Health, was allocated to the Tallaght local Drugs Task Force in partnership with the South Dublin County Council. It is to support the community safety fora in Tallaght which in turn will fund two community workers for another year. This underlines the commitment in the Programme for Government to work with Local and Regional Drug Task Forces to implement effective programmes.” “I especially welcome the recognition that is being given to the valuable work done by the community workers in Fettercairn and Killinarden. The safeguarding of the jobs for another year will ensure that the communities are best served in estate management issues”




Down1 Pasta as possible anag ofLos Angeles? (7)2 Plantation of police, say(5)3 Keep wine near Man-chester(9)4 Terribly verbose remark(7)5 Have no more to say? Usethe tea towel (3,2)6 Grabbed stuff from pagewith Labour led by himself(9)7 Split church and missopportunity outside (6)8 First in the field (esti-mated)(6)14 Sibelius’s forte, ren-deringof the year in Asiancountry (9)16 Chronicler taking time offin outbuilding (9)18 Country first in needingfood (7)19 Send away for backing ininvading party (6)20 Beginning and seeing offsecond (7)21 Burrower to supplyweapon in test (6)23 Remove covering asbefore (5)25 See where I go roundhouse in cold climate (5)

Brain - Munchies

This weeks Jokes 5. I will stop sending e-mail, ICQ, Instant Messages and be on the phone at the same time with the same person.

6. I resolve to back up my 12 GB hard drive daily...well, once a week...okay, monthly then...or maybe... at least once a year

7. I will spend less than one hour a day on the Internet. This, of course, will be hard to estimate since I’m not a clock watcher. 8. I will stop checking my e-mail at 3:00 in the morning... 4:30 is much more practical since my friends overseas already had time to answer me by then

The first letter of each answer is written next to its clue inalphabetical order. One letter has already been entered.Can you find the words then fit them correctly into the grid? Tallaght Express Crossword

Sponsored by:

New Year’s Resolutions 1. I will try to figure out why I “really” need 12 e-mail addresses.

2. I will stop sending e-mail to my wife (husband). A phone call every now and then would be appreciated.

3. I resolve to work with neglected children -- my own. 4. I will answer my snail mail with the same enthusiasm with which I answer my e-mail.

take one aback? (7)15 Urge former partner tostart gardening (6)17 Kidnap leader of society,of course (6)19 Buyer to pursue tenaciouscreature (7)22 First among men makingwork of 27 (9)24 North wind on northScots town (5)26 Persian associate with awork of 12 (5)27 Cushy sale arranged byexponent of 11 28 (9)28 See 1129 Nothing can replaceextended play for making4 across horrid (6)

Across1 Place and time can bevery destructive (6)4 Bathe between OldEnglish and Americandramatised by … (7)9 … exponent of 11 28,cooking chop and fishoutside (9)10 Solver starts to think ofSalad Days (5)11,28 Stink in governmentterminally spread likewildfire, with your firstresult of Euro-crisis …(5,7)12 … some of which I spied,disguised as exponent of11 28 (9)13 Insult that should not Solution Issue 27

Win 2 X Sets of tickets toa Play at the Civic Theatere

All entries to be sent to:

Box OfficeCivic TheatreDublii 24Please include your:

Name Address

TelephoneE-mail addrwss




Sport

The Sports Capital Programme which has provided funding for 10 projects in the Tallaght area amounting to €876,630, has been welcomed by Eamonn Maloney, Labour Party TD for Dublin South West. “This is the first time in four years that new funding for local sports projects across the constituency has been provided. The Sports Capital Programme is the Government’s main method for supporting the development of sports facilities and the purchase of non-personal sports equipment. There was a definite emphasis in this scheme on helping clubs and projects in disadvantaged areas. Some clubs which were previously excluded from access to this programme were allowed to apply this year. Clubs and organisations

WINNING APPROACH FOR TALLAGHT SPORTS PROJECTS

which do not own their own land or do not have long leases were able to apply. Amongst other things, the funding will be used for sports pitches both natural grass and artificial, non-personal sports equipment and building refurbishment.” “The grants in the South Dublin Council area will provide more access for people to avail these wonderful facilities. If we increase the physical fitness levels of the population, there will be less incidents of diabetes, obesity and heart disease which in turn must reduce the pressure on our hospitals. This is a “win win” situation for everyone and is a very welcome enhancement of the sporting amenities in Tallaght”.

Allocations to Local Projects have been granted as follows:

Dublin Tallaght Athletic Club €25,000 Dublin Tallaght Rockets Volleyball Club €4,500 Dublin Tallaght Rugby Football Club €23,018 Dublin Tallaght Swim Team €2,134

Dublin Trojan Gymnastic Club €19,550 Dublin Tymon Bawn Community Association Ltd €278,927 Dublin BRC Shooting Club €8,442 Dublin Faughs GAA Club €41,000 Dublin SDCC - South County Dublin Leisure Services Ltd €300,000 Dublin St Judes GAA Club €85,109

Congratulations to the Ladies Football team who won the All Ireland Junior Football title on their fine win over Boherbue (Cork) last weekend. Thanks to the Team Management and the Team on achieving this national honour. Our supporters and members who travelled to Birr for the match in such large numbers must also be complimented.

Siobhan McGrath was awarded Player of the match. Children’s Christmas Party takes place on Saturday 22nd December 2012 from 2.30 to 5pm.

Members are requested to sign up for the 2016 Club New standing order forms for the 2016 Club are available from the Clubhouse. Members are requested to buy one and sell 2 Carvary Lunch available each Sunday in the Clubhouse.

Members who have Club equipment not currently being used jerseys, footballs, sliotars, helmets and hurlies are requested to return same to Christopher O’Donnell or Sam Payne.

Thomas Davis GAA Club Notes

Today Elverys Sports along with the their chosen charity The ISPCC and Children from Fitzwilliam Nursery and Montessori School launched their new beanie hat with the ambition of beating last year’s sales of over 30,000 beanie hats which raised an amazing €60,000 for the ISPCC.

This year Elverys hope to raise €80,000. The beanie hat for €4.99 is available in all Elverys Sports stores around the country in 15 different options, all have a colourful children’s hand –print on them, reflecting both the fun side of the kids and as a reminder to us all to support children in Ireland. The beanie hat is an ideal fun stocking filler this Christmas for all the family.

Commenting on the announcement Lloyd Byrne Director of Fundraising at the ISPCC said: “Thank you to everyone at Elverys Sports and their customers for their ongoing enthusiasm and commitment in their support of the ISPCC. Elverys Sports’ support over the past year has been invaluable, and the funds raised from the beanie hat will help the ISPCC reach out to and support some of the most vulnerable children in Ireland. Every euro raised helps us work with more children to build better, brighter futures.”

“We would like to send a huge thank you to all our customers, whose continued support during these testing times deserves great praise. The beanie hats were an outstanding success last year and it is our ambition this year to increase sales of the beanie hat for the ISPCC. To date Elverys has raised over €150,000 for the ISPCC. “We are delighted to be in a position to support the ISPCC as they continue their great work and look forward to continuing this in the future” Commented Ailbhe Farrell Marketing Manager Elverys Sports.

Elverys Sports and the ISPCC are doing it for Children this Christmas

tallaght express christmas

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