The Independent Team

SAVE BAY VIEW

Dear Resident,

Last week I spoke to a member of senior management in Dublin City Council (DCC) and I asked him "If after the construction of the proposed Clontarf Flood Defence Project a person was either walking, cycling or driving along Clontarf Road between Alfie Byrne Rd ( opp Clontarf Garda Station) and the W Mden Bridge along-Clontarf Road (3krns) would that person be able to see the sea across the promenade?" "No they wouldn 't be able to see water at all ' he replied.

DÁIL ÉIREANN

Sitting Time - 15:30
Sitting Date - 27/09/2011

^ Leaders Questions ^
Propose Household Benefits Package & Pension Cuts

Deputy Finian McGrath:
I would like to raise with the Taoiseach today the issue of protection of our senior citizens before the harsh winter sets in.  I ask that he reverse the fuel cuts for vulnerable older people.  The Taoiseach knows that these people have served the State well for many years, in particular in the 1980s when they took a major hit in terms of taxes.  We heard earlier on in this House that €500,000 is to be paid to senior bankers at a time when we are taking €3 or €4 in terms of fuel allowances from our senior citizens.

Does the Taoiseach agree with Age Action Ireland that it is unacceptable to target these people and that to do so is highly dangerous?  Does he share my concerns that many older people could over the next few months die from cold-related illnesses such as pneumonia?  Why did the Taoiseach and Government cut the free electricity and gas units allowance under the household benefits package by 25% and 20% respectively?  Is the Taoiseach aware of the huge gas and electricity price increases in recent weeks and that many of our senior citizens are scared?  Does he know that recently electricity prices increased by 12% and gas increased by 20%?

I ask that the Taoiseach reverse these cuts as a matter of priority.

DÁIL ÉIREANN

Sitting Time - 11:10
Sitting Date - 22/09/2011

National Tourism Development Authority (Amendment) Bill 2011: Order for Second Stage

Deputy Finian McGrath:

I thank the Ceann Comhairle for the opportunity to speak on this new legislation.  Before going into details, I also congratulate the Minister of State, Deputy Ring, on his promotion and wish him well and the best of luck when dealing with the issues relating to his important portfolio.  I welcome both the National Tourism Development Authority (Amendment) Bill 2011 and, in particular, the broader debate on tourism and its considerable potential for development as a job creation strategy.  Members must be more creative in respect of its two major aspects, however, namely, local home tourism and international visitors.  In addition, the arts should be included as an important aspect of this debate.  That sector constitutes a major resource on the international stage and the image of Ireland is highly positive in this regard.  This area must be developed and the relevant audience targeted.  In addition, the local population must be encouraged to support their neighbours and friends who are directly involved in the tourism industry, by which I mean restaurants, public houses, bed and breakfasts and small hotels.  It is particularly important that as legislators and people who are in the public eye, Members commend and work hard to support the people who are directly involved in the tourism industry.

Deputy Finian McGrath has confirmed that he signed Martin’s nomination form.  “I have always supported the Peace Process and the democratic peaceful politics on this island” said the Northside T.D.  There are times in our history when people have to take risks for peace and support inclusive democratic politics.  It may not be popular to some but that is why I became involved.  I did it for the following reasons:

Dear Resident,

Just a few words to congratulate your local Resident’s Committee for winning the North Central City Neighbourhoods Competition.   It is a great victory for your neighbours and friends.

Seirbhis Thithe an Oireachtais
Teach Laighean,  Baile Atha Cliath 2.

Houses of the Oireachtas Service
Leinster House Dublin 2.
Tel 353 1618 3000.

Mr Finian McGrath, TD Leinster House.
One Stop Shop, Leinster House, Dublin 2.
Tel: 01-618 4693/4678/4688
Fax: 01-618 4695
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Dear Deputy McGrath,

Following your election to the 31st Dáil, please find below details of the allowances which you are in receipt of; details of the Oireachtas schemes you have subscribed to; and your
attendance registered up to and including 22nd August 2011.