Deirdre Clune

Women’s Breakfast Briefing on the Stability Treaty

Deirdre Clune — Thu, 17 May 2012 13:33:56 +0000

Women’s Breakfast Briefing on the Stability Treaty

Thursday 17^th of May 2012

An Taoiseach Enda Kenny will speak at a breakfast meeting for women voters at the Imperial Hotel Cork on Friday 25^th May at 8.00am. Newly elected Vice President of the Cork Chamber Gillian Keating will also speak. The meeting is designed to inform women voters on the issues surrounding the Stability Treaty which is the subject of the forthcoming referendum.

“From published polling it is well documented that female voters take the question of Referenda seriously and make strident efforts to inform themselves of the issues involved. There are still many undecided voters and this meeting will help those with their decision”.

Tickets for this event are priced at 10 euro per person and are available from Senator Deirdre Clune Clune’s office on 085-8506111

ENDS

Senator Deirdre Clune can be contacted on 087-2387539

Govt decision to extend lower VAT rate into 2013 is a huge boost for tourism industry- Clune

Deirdre Clune — Mon, 14 May 2012 13:45:59 +0000

Monday, 14th May 2012

Fine Gael Cork Senator Deirdre Clune has welcomed the announcement from Minister for Sport and Tourism, Leo Varadkar TD that the temporary 9% lower VAT rate which applies across the tourism sector, will be extended into 2013.

“The Government’s decision to extend the temporary lower 9% VAT rate on tourism into 2013 is very positive news for the tourism industry and the country as a whole. This will undoubtedly boost tourist figures and contribute to growth in the economy and will ensure Ireland will be able to offer lower-cost tourism options to tourists.’

“Reducing the lower VAT was one of the first acts taken by this Government when the Jobs Initiative was announced by Minister Bruton in May 2011. This measure had the effect of creating 6,000 new jobs in Irish accommodation and leisure last year. A 6% increase in overseas visitors to Ireland in 2011 was another direct result of the reduction.

“It is a priority for this Government to reduce costs within the tourism industry, and the industry has seen evidence of this in the last 12 months. We can look forward to further positive news from the tourism and hospitality sector following this anouncement Thankfully, Ireland is no longer regarded as a rip-off tourist destination. Today’s news is very welcome and is a new departure for tourism in this country”.

ENDS

Senator Deirdre Clune can be contacted on 087- 2387539

Clune Welcomes Vita Cortex Redundancy Payment Announcement.

Deirdre Clune — Wed, 02 May 2012 20:43:41 +0000

Deirdre Clune welcomed the announcement that the VITA CORTEX workers have accepted a redundancy payment proposal

” I am so glad to hear that there is an end in sight for the Vita Cortex workers and their families The news that the workers have agreed to accept a redundancy proposal is welcome and will come as a relief for themselves and all who supported them

“The dignified but determined protest of the workers has won them enormous respect from all corners of the world but particularly from the people of Cork .Now that their long campaign seems to be coming to an end they can return to enjoy time with family and friends,said Senator Clune

ENDS

Link to Podcast of mw speaking on Child Protection in the European Parliament

Deirdre Clune — Thu, 26 Apr 2012 10:35:25 +0000

Link to me speaking on Child Protection in the European Parliament.

http://www.humanrightseurope.org/2012/04/podcast-irelands-action-against-plague-of-child-sexual-abuse/

Govt action will make Ireland a safer place for children- Clune

Deirdre Clune — Thu, 26 Apr 2012 09:14:13 +0000

Wednesday, 25^th April 2012

Govt action will make Ireland a safer place for children – Clune

Parents, friends & family must still remain vigilant to the signs of abuse

Fine Gael Cork Senator, Deirdre Clune, has today (Wednesday) welcomed the publication of a number of legislative measures designed to protect our children and to ensure that offences against them are reported. Deputy Clune was speaking following a presentation she gave on child welfare issues to the Council of Europe Committee of Social and Family Affairs, of which she is a member.

“The publication today of the Criminal Justice (Withholding of Information on Offences Against Children and Vulnerable Persons) Bill 2012 by the Minister for Justice, Alan Shatter, and the Heads of the Children First Bill by the Minister for Children, Frances Fitzgerald, will ensure that information relating to crimes against children are reported to An Garda Síochána and that the organisations that are charged with caring for our children in our absence are fit to do so.

“Relying on voluntary codes and guidelines to is no longer good enough. If the litany of abuse and subsequent cover-ups has taught us anything, it is that the rule of law and appropriate legislation must be in place to safeguard our children from the horrors of abuse.

“We also need to ensure the perpetrators of child sexual abuse cannot hide and that those who are aware that abuse is taking place are in no doubt about their responsibility to report it. Instilling confidence in those with information to come forward is essential and the Criminal Justice Bill does just that. It is also important to note that an essential provision has been included to protect a parent or medical professional who is acting in the interests of the child who does not wish for the information to be reported.

“As a member of the One in Five campaign group in the Council of Europe, the aim of which is to stop sexual violence against children, I am cognisant of the fact that in a staggering number of cases (70%-85%), the abuser of a child is someone he/she knows. For this reason, we cannot rely only on legislation, we must also remain vigilant where interfamilial and close circle abuse is concerned.

“Until now, there was no legal obligation to adequately shield our children and vulnerable adults. The actions taken by Government today is the first step towards addressing these concerns and ensuring that our children are safe when in the care of others and that any wrongdoing against does not go unreported.”

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Apple expansion huge vote of confidence in Cork -Clune

Deirdre Clune — Mon, 23 Apr 2012 14:21:45 +0000

Apple expansion huge vote of confidence in Cork – Clune

Fine Gael Cork South Central Senator and Senator Spokesperson on Enterprise, Jobs and Innovation, Deirdre Clune, has today (Friday) said that the announcement that Apple is to create 500 new jobs in Cork is a huge vote of confidence in the city.

“This is a really significant announcement from Apple, which will come as a considerable boost to the company’s existing workforce and to jobseekers across Cork. The creation of 500 new jobs will have a hugely positive impact on the entire city, and it further solidifies Apple’s commitment to remaining in Ireland.

“Apple has established itself as a major employer in Cork over the last 30 years. As a result of today’s announcement, its workforce in the city will rise to 3,300. It is very encouraging to see that the firm, which has enjoyed such incredible success across the globe, is giving such a strong vote of confidence in the capabilities of the local workforce.

“I would like to commend the efforts of Minister for Enterprise, Jobs and Innovation, Richard Bruton, who I understand has been closely involved in this project for many months, along with senior officials in his Department and the IDA. Today’s announcement further underlines the value of the recent trip by the Minister to the USA, where he was able to progress discussions with the company.

“As well as the 500 jobs which will be created over the next 18 months, local construction activity should also be given a boost through the building of the new three-storey office block, which will cater for the expanded workforce.

“Today’s announcement is not only a huge boost for Cork, it is yet another positive indication that Ireland is continuing to attract high value foreign investment. Apple’s expanded operation in Cork will cater for its business in Europe, the Middle East, India and Africa, highlighting Ireland’s strong ability to act as a hub for the export market.”

ENDS

Fiscal Treaty Online Campaign first step, on campaign trail- Clune

Deirdre Clune — Thu, 19 Apr 2012 15:39:03 +0000

Fiscal Treaty Online Campaign first step, on campaign trail- Clune

Fine Gael Cork Senator Deirdre Clune has today (Thursday) welcomed the launch of the Government’s online campaign on the EU Fiscal Treaty, by an Taoiseach, Enda Kenny. The website www.stabilitytreaty.ie will also have links to Facebook and Twitter.

“This online campaign will help inform the public on what the treaty is about and how important it is to Ireland’s future. A lot of people are undecided on which way to vote and they want to learn about this treaty. The Government wants to ensure that people are adequately informed and the online campaign will be one way in ensuring this is the case”.

We have six full weeks of intensive campaigning ahead of us. The debate kicked off this week in the Dáil and it will be before the Seanad next week. The Oireachtas Committee on the Referendum has been meeting with people from all sides, in Ireland and from abroad who have different perspectives on this Treaty.

Informing people and persuading them to vote Yes is key to a successful outcome of the referendum The Government does not underestimate the importance of the role it must play and this online focus will support that role.

“I am also pleased to hear that the Government intends to send a copy of the treaty to every house in the country, which will be printed in both English and Irish, this along with the campaign by the Referendum commission will facilitate people in informing themselves

“As a Government party Fine Gael has developed its own campaign which will mobilise the party structure throughout the country and ensure that the benefit of the Fiscal Treaty for the secure future of our country are fully explained” said Senator Clune.

ENDS

Senator Deirdre Clune can be contacted on 087- 2387539

Irish Water will bring jobs, investment & security of supply- Clune

Deirdre Clune — Thu, 19 Apr 2012 14:06:47 +0000

Irish Water will bring jobs, investment & security of supply- Clune

Thursday 19^th of April 2012.

Fine Gael Cork Senator Deirdre Clune, today (Thursday) has said that the creation of a new independent, State –owned company, Irish Water, will radically reform the management of our water infrastructure and reduce the amount of water that is currently being wasted in this country.

“Water is a very precious commodity as we all know, and one that is under threat. At present more than 40% of our water is being lost through leaks; a fact that cannot continue to be ignored. . Recent international research reveals that in just 20 years, the global demand for water will be 40% higher than it is today We need to act now to manage this valuable resource”.

“The recent announcement by the Government that a publically owned water company is being established as a subsidiary of Bord Gais will ensure safety and security of supply in our water services. It will also create much needed employment during the water meter installation phase and by providing certainty of water supply for investors in our country”.

“The management of our water infrastructure currently falls to 34 separate local authorities. This means that our structures are fragmented and we are unable to achieve real efficiencies in our systems. We all want the best quality water possible for the people of Cork City and County and throughout Ireland If this is to be achieved we cannot be the last country in the EU and the OECD to charge domestic consumers for water, and continue to put this issue on the long finger”.

“While the introduction of new charges is never easy, it is important to note that a free allowance will be given to every household in the country and charges will not be imposed until 2014. There will also be no upfront charge for household metres. In the same way as is the case with other utilities, bills will be issued to householders several times a year and a variety of payment options will be available” said Senator Clune.

ENDS.

Senator Deirdre Clune can be contacted on 087- 2387539

CUH Hosts Free Bowel Cancer Infromation Event – Bowel Cancer Awareness Month

Deirdre Clune — Thu, 19 Apr 2012 10:34:43 +0000

CUH Hosts Free Bowel Cancer Information Event – Bowel Cancer Awareness Month

Did you know that bowel cancer is the second most commonly diagnosed cancer in both men and women in Ireland?

Most people do not realise just how prevalent bowel cancer is (also known as colorectal cancer or colon cancer). In order to raise the awareness of the disease amongst the general public, clinicians in Cork University Hospital (CUH), are holding a free information session from 2.00pm to 4.00pm on Saturday 28th April 2012 in the main lecture theatre at CUH. This event is part of Bowel Cancer Awareness month (April 2010) and is supported by the Irish Cancer Society.

More than 2,200 people in Ireland are diagnosed with bowel cancer every year with the incidences of disease increasing as people get older; the highest being amongst the 55 – 74 age group. Over the last 15 years the number of cases of colorectal cancer has risen by approximately 20% in both sexes. By 2020 the number of new cases of colorectal cancer diagnosed each year in Ireland is projected to increase by 79% in men and 56% in women. This projected growth is primarily attributable to an increasing and ageing population. However, younger people are diagnosed also and should be aware of signs and symptoms and services available.

Mr Morgan McCourt, Consultant Colorectal Surgeon at CUH with a particular interest in bowel/colorectal cancer said, “Bowel cancer is very common but, unfortunately, most people are not aware of this type of cancer or, they are too embarrassed to talk about it. We are holding this information session to raise the awareness of the condition because, like all cancers, early diagnosis is vital. This is a very treatable form of cancer but it must be detected early.”

A number of clinicians from CUH with expertise in bowel cancer will speak at the free information event and discuss a range of topics including; signs and symptoms, who is affected, where to go for help, what happens after diagnosis and current and future treatments. Speakers include;

Mr. Morgan McCourt, Consultant Colorectal Surgeon – What is bowel cancer?
Mr Emmet Andrews; Consultant Surgeon – Laparoscopic surgery,
Dr. Paul Kelly, Radiation Oncologist – Radiotherapy treatments;
Dr. Seamus O’ Reilly, Medical Oncologist – Chemotherapy treatments;
Dr Derek Power, Medical Oncologist Hereditary colo-rectal cancer / family risk
Ms. Anne Murphy, Advanced Nurse Practitioner – Colorectal cancer screening;
Ms. Mary Hannon, Coloproctology Clinical Nurse Specialist – Rapid access to clinic
Ms Marie McSweeney, Stoma Care Nurse Specialist – Stoma services
Ms. Ann Bowler, Psycho-oncology Liaison Nurse – Psycho-oncology/supports

Anne Murphy, Advanced Nurse Practitioner, CUH encouraged people to come along on Saturday 28th April to the information session, particularly if they have any concerns about their own health or that of a family member or friend and said, “Many people initially feel quite anxious or embarrassed about coming to the clinic for a check-up. Typical comments that we hear from patients in the clinic include; ‘I was too embarrassed to see someone’, ‘I thought it was just piles’, ‘it’s not something that’s easy to talk about’, ‘I should have come earlier’. However, they are quickly put at their ease by the team who are extremely professional and who have vast experience of this form of cancer.”

There are a number of symptoms that people should be aware of and should get checked out by their GP if they have any concerns at all. Symptoms might include changes in bowel habits i.e. from constipation to diarrhoea, pain or bleeding from the back passage or what might be thought to be piles or haemorrhoids. People should also be aware if there is a history of bowel cancer or other cancers in their families as they may be more susceptible.

CUH has a specialist clinic to cater for people presenting with symptoms of bowel/colorectal cancer where they receive rapid and easy access to treatment following referral by their GP. The Colorectal Assessment Clinic has seen a 300% increase in those attending the clinic since it was established in 2000 and has seen in excess of 5,000 patients. There are plans to increase the capacity as cancer care is centralized to make patients journey through the hospital easier.

Ends.

Patronage of Schools must be looked at in an inclusive fashion -Clune

Deirdre Clune — Tue, 10 Apr 2012 11:42:57 +0000

Patronage of Schools must be looked at in an inclusive fashion– Clune

Tuesday 10^th of April 2012

Fine Gael Cork Senator Deirdre Clune has today (Tuesday) said that patronage of our schools must be looked at in an inclusive fashion. This follows on from a report published today by the Advisory Group to the Forum on Patronage and Pluralism in the Primary Sector and which was presented to the Minister of Education and Skills Ruairi Quinn.

“We are becoming a more diverse society with people from different culture and ethnic backgrounds attending our schools in large numbers. The report notes that while 96% of education provision at primary level is denominational arising from the historical development of Irish primary education, there is clearly increased demand for new forms of multi – denominational and non –denominational schooling, as well as increased demand for Irish language schooling”.

On the other hand a low percentage of primary schools in Ireland are multi –denominational a relatively low number compare to other European states. Over recent years Irish society has changed a great deal reflecting a more multi- cultural society with an international outlook. School provision needs to reflect this changed society and provide ever increasing diversity.

“This report contributes to and offers a welcome development in the way patronage is being decided in schools. I very much welcome the fact that parents are being given more choice as they make extremely important decisions about the education of their children. We live in a multi –cultural society with people from different backgrounds and cultures. The Forum on Patronage is a key commitment in the Programme for Government and is another indication of our drive to reform and ensure fairness in our schools” said Senator Clune.

ENDS

Senator Clune can be contacted on 087- 2387539