Limerick County Library Launches Countywide Assistive Technology Service

All 24 library branches across County Limerick have been upgraded to allow the elderly, people with learning difficulties and those with physical disabilities to gain easier access to library services.

Limerick County Library Service today launched its Assistive Technology Service, which includes a range of software and hardware. As well as availing of a comprehensive selection of large print books and talking books, library members can now benefit from Voice Dictation and Homepage Reader technology, Virtual and Braille Keyboards, Electronic Height Adjustable Computer Desks, Orthopaedic Chairs, Magnifying Machines and Induction Loops for the hard of hearing.

Limerick County Library sourced the new assistive technology hardware and software after receiving funding from the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, under the National Disability Strategy. Meanwhile, the Library service has teamed up with the CitizenFirst Project and Mid-West Regional Authority to undertake a promotional campaign to highlight the new Assistive Technologies available in the County’s 24 Library Branches. The campaign involves the production of an instructional DVD on the new technologies and the loaning of laptops within each library (including the Mobile Library) to enable people to access Internet services using their Wi-Fi/3G networks.

Launching the countywide service at Dooradoyle Library today, Councillor John Gallahue, Cathaoirleach of Limerick County Council stated, “I would like to congratulate the Library service for making the benefits of assistive technologies available to library users throughout County Limerick. This initiative helps the County Library to fulfil its role of providing services that are accessible to all people.”

According to Damien Dullaghan, Executive Librarian, “This initiative is part of Limerick County Library’s on-going commitment to improving and developing library services for all the people of the community. It is anticipated that the Assistive Technology Service will enhance the independence of our users with disabilities in accessing our ICT Services.”

Assistive Technology Software provided in Branch Libraries:
- Text Readers - Reader Easy Office Text is a text reading application that can read scanned documents back to the user.
- Voice Dictation - Dragon NaturallySpeaking 9 allows users to create documents, e-mails etc. all by speaking. Dragon Speak translates voice dictations into Microsoft Word and Excel, Corel WordPerfect, and virtually all Windows-based applications.
- Homepage Reader - IBM Home Page Reader is a talking Web browser designed for users who wish to access the Internet in a non-visual or combined auditory/visual way.
- IMG Screen Magnifier - The Magnifier is an Area Screen Magnifier that supports 2-10 times magnification. The Magnifier window can be set to automatically position itself, and can be set to float/track the mouse cursor which makes assists individuals that need visual assistance.
- IMG On Screen Keyboard – This virtual alternative to the physical keyboard appears on screen and can be used by clicking the keys with a mouse. It is particularly useful for those with limited mobility. The Roller Tracker ball mouse can be used in tandem with this product.

Assistive Technology Hardware provided in Branch Libraries:
- Trackerball Mouse - This alternative to a standard mouse is designed for users with moderate-severe motor skill difficulties.
- Big Keys Keyboard – Operates like a standard Windows keyboard and features extra large keys with high contrast letters in upper/lower case.
- Braille Keyboard - This QWERTY Keyboard has embossed Braille stickers on each key.
- Electronic Height Adjustable Computer Desk - The height of this desk can be adjusted, through a simple two-button operation. The desk is ideal for use by electric wheelchair users.
- Assistive Technology Chair - This chair has an adjustable headrest for neck support. It also has automatic locking castors, which lock when weight is applied (i.e. when someone sits into the chair).

The launch of the new Assistive technology Services is part of Limerick County Library’s ongoing expansion of services throughout the County.

Earlier this year, Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, John Gormley T.D., officially opened the 45,000 sq ft Limerick County Library Headquarters and Limerick Studies Centre at Lissanalta House in Dooradoyle.

Regarded as one of Ireland’s most comprehensive centres of its kind, the local studies facility brings together the written local history of County Limerick, the archival records of County Limerick, as well as being home to the Limerick Family Ancestry service.

An increasing amount of the material available at the Limerick Studies Centre has been digitised and published online at lcc.ie/library. Griffith’s Primary Valuation, which was published between 1847 and 1864 and was the first full-scale valuation of property in Limerick, was recently made available online. The Irish Times Online Archive has also been made available to library users across the county.

Meanwhile, Limerick County Library has confirmed that it will continue to expand its ‘Talking Books’ service for the visually impaired. In recent months, many titles catering for a wide variety of reading interests have been made available in mp3 format.

Other recent developments within the Library service include the provision of public internet connections at each of the county’s 24 library branches while a high-bandwidth Wi-Fi service has been installed at the five full time branches in Dooradoyle, Newcastle West, Abbeyfeale, Adare and Foynes. Rathkeale library also provides the service.

For more on the Limerick County Library Service see www.lcc.ie/library or call 061-496526.

Lissanalta House Shortlisted For Excellence In Local Government Award

Lissanalta House in Dooradoyle has been shortlisted for an award in Chamber Ireland's Excellence in Local Government Awards 2008.

The Chambers of Commerce of Ireland (CCI) established the awards in 2004 to acknowledge and encourage best practice and constructive initiatives by local authorities and also to enhance the positive relationships that already exist between chambers, businesses and their respective local authorities. Limerick County Council’s newest administrative building and office complex has been singled out in the ‘Outstanding Customer Service’ category, the winner of which will be announced at the Awards Gala Dinner on 6 November in the Crowne Plaza Hotel, County Dublin.

The state of the art building, which was officially opened last March, accommodates six key local authority services that were previously based at separate locations throughout County Limerick. They include the Mid West National Road Design Office, Motor Taxation Office, Regional Waste Management Office, Environment Laboratory and new Limerick County Library Headquarters, which is complemented by one of Ireland’s most comprehensive local studies centres.

Congratulating the Local Authority on being shortlisted, Councillor John Gallahue, Cathaoirleach of Limerick County Council, stated, ‘With the opening of Lissanalta House, Limerick County Council has provided a one-stop shop facility to its public on a convenient, accessible site making available an integrated range of quality services.’

He continued, “The development of Lissanalta House has most notably resulted in the provision of what must be one of the most modern and technically best-equipped library headquarters in the country. This 45,000 sq ft development is not only a significant moment for the Council, but a milestone in the delivery of public services in this county.”

Mr. Gerry Behan, Director of Services, Limerick County Council, said the development of Lissanalta House formed part of Limerick County Council’s strong emphasis on providing accessible and convenient services to members of the public. Mr. Behan pointed out that the provision of quality customer service is a touchstone of the local government modernisation programme. He explained, ‘The delivery of high quality services, tailored to meet the needs of all our customers, is one of Limerick County Council's core objectives and is included in our Corporate Plan 2004-09. This quality service includes not only the level and quality of service given to our customers, but also the quality of our decision-making processes, the efficiency and effectiveness of our operations, standard of our facilities and our ability to adapt in an ever-changing environment.’

Mr. Behan stated that Limerick County Council would continue to further enhance the delivery of customer services throughout County Limerick. ‘Work recently commenced on an integrated project with the Courts Services, the Library Service and an Area Office on a single site in Kilmallock, and will open to the public in 2009’, he added.

Lissanalta House has been shortlisted for Chamber Ireland's Excellence in Local Government Award based on its delivery of accessible and convenient services for the public. Convenient Access is provided to six services located at a central site in close proximity to a range of key local Government agencies, including Limerick County Hall, Limerick VEC, and Teagasc’s Headquarters. It is accessible by public transport or private car via the new South Ring Road. Free parking for customers is available. Also, cycle lanes serve the building from Dooradoyle shopping centre. A Single Reception Area is provided to serve all six departments affording a central point of contact for the customer. Private Meeting Rooms: are provided for the public to allow the customer to meet with Council staff regarding confidential business needs. A public coffee dock is available for customer convenience, which is especially beneficial for people who have travelled distances for meetings or to carry out full-day research.

One of the outstanding features of the building, which was designed by local architects Healy & Partners, is the promotion of modern energy design solutions. Numerous environmentally friendly installations have been incorporated including solar panels that provide 70% of domestic hot water to the building, high levels of fabric insulation that reduce energy consumption and natural ventilation to all offices. Already, the building has won a National Award from Gypsum Industries for the innovative use of plasterboard in ceiling design. Meanwhile, the Council has confirmed that up to 15% of the buildings’ total electricity needs will be generated by a Photovoltaic (PV) solar electric power system.

Limerick County Council Reveals Findings Of Severity And Impact Report Into Flooding Of Newcastle West

Limerick County Council has published the findings of a Severity and Impact report into the flooding events of August 1st 2008 in Newcastle West, County Limerick.

Details of the report, which was compiled by JBA Consulting, were revealed at a public meeting in the West Limerick town this evening. The meeting was attended by members of the local community affected by the floods, as well as representatives of the Office of Public Works and JBA Consulting, and Limerick County Council's Transport and Infrastructure, Environment and Housing sections.

Commenting on the background to the report, Mr. Gerry Behan, Deputy County Manager, Limerick County Council, stated, ‘Following the devastating flooding in Newcastle West in the early hours of the 1st August 2008, JBA Consulting was commissioned to compile a timely report to provide a basis for informed discussion and analysis between all stakeholders. The aims of the report were to assess the severity of both the rainfall event in the upstream catchment and the resulting flood in the River Arra, to provide a factual record of the impact of the flood and to identify probable ‘root causes’ of the flooding in order to make recommendations for future analysis.’

‘I would like to thank JBA Consulting for producing this detailed report. Limerick County Council, in conjunction with the Office of Public Works, now looks forward to following through on the key recommendations outlined within the report. The report will be made available in full on the Limerick County Council website at www.lcc.ie from tomorrow morning’, added Mr. Behan.

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:
Data Collection
Two walkover surveys were undertaken; the first immediately after the flood event, and the second once water levels had dropped and the clean up had begun. Data collected included river levels and rainfall totals, weather reports and radar images and photographs and video footage. Interviews were conducted with eyewitnesses to the event, including local residents and emergency personnel, and local engineers. Questionnaires were also distributed to gather the experiences of local residents. The collation and analysis of this data is to be undertaken following this report.

Mechanisms of Flooding
The investigations followed the source-pathway-receptor model, with particular attention paid to the pathways of flooding. The pathways through the catchment above the affected area are important because flooding is not always caused by rain which falls on the location affected directly. It can be caused by rain falling on the upstream catchment which then reaches the town via the drains, rivers and overland flow. The speed with which rain is transferred through and over the ground is determined by features of the catchment such as size, gradient, permeability and wetness, as well as the intensity and duration of the rainfall.

Newcastle West and the Arra Catchment
Newcastle West lies on the downstream reach of the River Arra, which is a tributary of the River Deel. The catchment is relatively small, at 43km2, and extremely steep in its upper reaches. The ground falls from over 350 mAOD to around 80 or 90 mAOD from the summit to the foot of the mountains lying on the western margins of the catchment. The ground then slopes more gently to Newcastle West, which is at an elevation of around 45 mAOD. The underlying geology of the catchment is impermeable, and is overlain by poorly draining soils. There are three main rivers in the Arra catchment which meet in Newcastle West; the Arra, the Dooally and the Mash.

Rainfall
The weather in the days leading up to the 1st August was very wet. Persistent rainfall had resulted in a saturated catchment, revealed by the soil moisture deficit for the area as calculated by Met Éireann.

Rain gauges in the vicinity of the catchment are all daily gauges, meaning they record total rain for the previous 24 hours. Thiessens analysis of the gauge data allowed a catchment average total rainfall to be calculated for the period 09:00 GMT 31st July to 09:00 GMT 1st August. The catchment average rainfall for the period was 85.9mm.
Eyewitness accounts and rainfall radar images indicate that that rain began at around 19:30 on the 31st July and continued until approximately 01:30 on the 1st August, giving a storm duration of 6 hours. Assuming a storm duration of five to six hours, this depth of rain equates to up to a 0.15% AEP (or a return period of up to 1 in 650 years).

River Level
As there are no recording gauges on the Arra a hydraulic model will be required to calculate the exact return period. However, there are two river level recording gauges on the Deel near the Arra at Deel Bridge and Grange. The levels and severity information for the Deel gauges show that water levels were well in excess of any previously recorded event; by 600mm at the Deel Bridge and 400mm at the Grange Bridge.

Description of the Event
Eyewitness accounts and evidence gathered on the site visit were used to establish the flooding sources and pathways. The saturated catchment was unable to absorb the rain and a deluge of water ran off the steep mountain side and over-whelmed the field drains and ditches, before reaching the main watercourses through the catchment, namely the Dooally, the Mash and the Arra. Water flowed through the town, both via the channel and the roads, inundating many properties and moving debris and vehicles in its path. Water depths of up to 1.8m above road level were recorded in the town.

Impacts of the flood
A large number of properties suffered from flood damage, both internally and externally. A more detailed count of those affected will be established following analysis of the questionnaires, but initial estimates suggest over 200 properties may have suffered from some degree of flooding. Although a number of people were rescued from property or vehicles, no-one was seriously injured during the event. Power and water supplies were also affected for a time after the event. Road closures, both as a direct result of the flooding and due to subsequent land slides, remain in place in some areas.

Conclusions
The Arra catchment is very steep with a dense river network upstream of the town. Newcastle West sits at the confluence of three main rivers; the Dooally, the Arra and the Mash;
- July was an exceptionally wet month which resulted in fully saturated ground conditions prior to the storm;
- During the storm, 10% of the expected annual rainfall fell in 5-6 hours giving a rainfall return period of up to 1 in 650 years;
- Water sheeted off the upper slopes, over-whelming field drains and ditches and forming overland flow routes upstream of Newcastle West town Some properties were flooded as a result of water returning to the channel;
- In the town itself, the river channel and structures were also overwhelmed. In response to public concern, it is noted that Mill Falls Apartment and the new Bridge of Tears have greater capacity to pass flow than other structures on the channel.

RECOMMENDATIONS:
- Available data on the channel and structures should be supplemented with additional channel topographic survey and structure survey as required;
- Further detailed hydraulic analysis should be undertaken, in conjunction with the OPW, to assess the capacities of the channel and individual structures in order to identify actual risk associated with each of them. This includes in particular Cullenagh Bridge, the Bridge Street crossing, the culvert below the Bedding Store, Mill Falls Apartments, Courtenay Bridge and the Bridge of Tears (both structures);
- JBA Consulting visually recorded wrack marks throughout the whole town. It is recommended that these marks be surveyed at a later date to give a more detailed analysis of flood levels;
- Flood outlines for planning should be produced for the 1% AEP and 0.1% AEP events to align with forthcoming Government Flood Planning Policy;
- Development of a detailed Digital Elevation Model (DEM), ideally using LiDAR, to produce a detailed flood event outline;
- Compilation and analysis of questionnaires, including further interviews should they be deemed necessary.

Public Meeting To Discuss Flooding In Newcastle West

The results of a Severity and Impact Report into the recent severe flooding of Newcastle West will be made known at a public meeting in the West Limerick town next week.

Limerick County Council will host the meeting at Aras William Smith O’Brien, Newcastle West on Tuesday next 2nd Sept. at 8pm. JBA Consulting is preparing the Severity and Impact Report, which will be completed by the end of this week.

The publication of the report follows on from a public meeting that took place in the aftermath of the flash floods that occurred in the town. 93mm of rainfall, equivalent to a month’s rain, was recorded near Newcastle West over a five-hour period on August 1st. The rains caused the river Arra to burst its banks for the first time in living memory.

According to Eugene Griffin, Limerick County Secretary, ‘Among those present at the upcoming meeting will be representatives of the Office of Public Works and JBA Consulting, as well as the Council’s Transport and Infrastructure, Environment and Housing sections. Anyone affected by the floods is welcome to attend the meeting.’

Major New Public Park Opens In Limerick

A major new outdoor recreational facility has today been opened to members of the public in Castletroy, County Limerick.

Costing an estimated EUR2.2m to develop, ‘Castletroy Park’ is now one of the largest purpose-built public park and amenity areas in the Midwest Region. The delivery of the 17-acre development follows an eight-month long construction contract between Limerick County Council and contractor L&M Keating of Kilmihil, County Clare.

The development, which was designed by local company Nicholas de Jong Associates Urban Design, features 1.2 km of pedestrian pathways, a fully equipped children's playground, skateboarding area, circular cycle route, and central performance and exhibition area with covering structure. It also includes an array of natural habitats, including a 4,300 sq. metre lake, wetlands, wildflower grass areas and woodlands

The development, which is located opposite Castletroy College, is complemented by park furniture, ornamental planting areas, a public car park and main entrance feature. It will be open to the public seven days a week during daylight hours, and managed by Limerick County Council. Cllr. John Gallahue, Cathaoirleach of Limerick County Council, said that the new facilities were a significant and welcome addition to Limerick’s outdoor recreational infrastructure.

‘The County Council has always been conscious of the growing population of the City Environs and the increasing demands for enhanced recreational facilities. To this end, therefore, the additional amenities being provided in this park will also be complemented by further recreational facilities in the Castletroy area and also a proposed new Neighbourhood Park at Ballykeeffe. This park will serve the population of the Southern Environs, including Ballykeeffe, Dooradoyle, Gouldavoher, Raheen and Mungret’, explained the Cathaoirleach.

Mr. Gerry Behan, Deputy County Manager, said the provision of sporting and recreational facilities and services is one of the core functions of Local Government. ‘Castletroy continues to experience growth in terms of developments and population. Therefore, it is imperative that this is matched by the provision of important infrastructure such as recreational amenities. The funding made available through the Development Levy Scheme, makes it possible for the first time to provide this state of the art recreational facility. I expect that this accessible and convenient setting for relaxation and recreation will become a focal point for the people of the locality and beyond’, added Mr. Behan

Limerick County Council has in recent months made significant progress in meeting its obligations under the County Limerick Play Plan 2006-2010 and National Play Policy – Ready, Steady, Play! Play facilities have been provided at Kilmallock, Cappamore, Newcastle West and Abbeyfeale with further playgrounds planned for Askeaton, Rathkeale, Croom, Kilfinane, Castleconnell and Bruff. Elsewhere, the Council and the Football Association of Ireland (FAI) are developing all weather soccer and multiuse facilities for young people in Abbeyfeale, Patrickswell, Hospital, Rathkeale and Cappamore. Earlier this year, meanwhile, President of Ireland Mary McAleese officially opened the Askeaton Pool And Leisure Centre, which has been established as a lasting tribute to Askeaton’s proud and lengthy association with organised swimming and water sports.

News In Brief...

Limerick County Council has appointed a consultant to carry out an impact report following recent flooding in the catchment areas of the Arragh and Galey rivers, including Newcastlewest and Athea.

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Keeping a close eye on the Baggot Estate in Ballinacurra, councillors are maintaining pressure on City Hall to refurbish and develop the nature park, with provision for local sports clubs and a focus has been on the creation of a wetland area. A progress report has just been issued by director of services, Caroline Curley to councillors for the Ward - Cllr Pat Kennedy, Cllr Marie Byrne, Cllr Jim Long and Cllr Joe Leddin.

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Gardai have been alerted to what has been described as a crime spree in the Castletroy area, and are to step up operations. A Henry Street spokesperson told the Limerick Post that there had been an increase in crime in the general Castletroy district over the last 12 months. According to UL Students Union President Pat O’Brien, many students and residents had become very concerned for their personal safety. "It is disappointing that you can’t even leave your windows open in the summertime for fear of intruders”.

Flood hit areas braced for more rain

Home and landowners across Limerick are battling to contain flooding as the County today braces itself for more downpours.

There are fears of major traffic disruption amid predictions of more rain.

Rivers burst their banks and dozens of roads closed across the County over the past few days as Shannon Airport continued to monitor record breaking rainfall totals for the time of year.

Some parts of Limerick, mostly in the west of the county, saw up to three-quarters of the normal August rainfall in a single day. A spokeswoman for MeteoGroup, the weather division of the PA Group, confirmed another area of rain was moving into the county today.

17-Acre Public Park To Open This Week In Castletroy, County Limerick

Limerick County Council will officially open a major new public park and amenity area in Castletroy later this week.

The development of ‘Castletroy Park’ follows an 8-month long construction contract between Limerick County Council and contractor L&M Keating of Kilmihil, County Clare. The EUR2.2m public park and amenity area, which is one of the largest purpose built public park and amenity areas in County Limerick, was designed by local company Nicholas de Jong Associates, Urban Design.

The development features 1.2 km of pedestrian pathways, a fully equipped children's playground, skateboarding area, circular cycle route and central performance/exhibition area with covering structure. It also features an array of natural habitats, including a 4,300 sq. metre lake, wetlands, wildflower grass areas and woodlands The development, which is located opposite Castletroy College, is complemented by park furniture, ornamental planting areas, a public car park and main entrance feature. It will be open to the public seven days a week during daylight hours, and managed by Limerick County Council.

Cllr. John Gallahue, Cathaoirleach of Limerick County Council, who will officially open the new public park and amenity area this Thursday at 12 noon, said, ‘These new facilities are a significant and welcome addition to Limerick’s outdoor recreational infrastructure’. He added, ‘The provision of this state of the art public park demonstrates Limerick County Council’s commitment to further improving the quality of life for local communities. The development will be of particular benefit to the growing population of Castletroy and surrounding areas’.

Mr. Gerry Behan, Deputy County Manager, said the provision of sporting and recreational facilities and services is one of the core functions of Local Government. ‘Castletroy continues to experience growth in terms of developments and population. Therefore, it is imperative that this is matched by the provision of important infrastructure such as recreational amenities. I expect that this accessible and convenient setting for relaxation and recreation will become a focal point for the people of the locality and beyond’, added Mr. Behan.

In the past year alone, Limerick County Council has made significant progress in meeting its obligations under the County Limerick Play Plan 2006-2010 and National Play Policy – Ready, Steady, Play! Play facilities have been provided at Kilmallock, Cappamore, Newcastle West and Abbeyfeale. Further playgrounds are planned for Askeaton, Rathkeale, Croom, Kilfinane, Castleconnell and Bruff.

Elsewhere, the Council and the Football Association of Ireland are currently in the process of providing all weather soccer and multiuse facilities at separate locations throughout County Limerick. The five separate Astroturf pitches for young people will be situated in Abbeyfeale, Patrickswell, Hospital, Rathkeale and Cappamore. Earlier this year, meanwhile, President of Ireland Mary McAleese officially opened the Askeaton Pool And Leisure Centre, which has been established as a lasting tribute to Askeaton’s proud and lengthy association with organised swimming and water sports.

According to Cllr. Patrick O’Donovan, Chair of the Environment Strategic Policy Committee (SPC), ‘Castletroy Park represents yet another step forward for the Local Authority in its continuing efforts to further improve the number and standard of recreational facilities available to members of the public. Through interaction with local groups, who possess an in-depth understanding of the needs of their locality, my colleagues and I will continue to press for further developments of this nature throughout the county’.

HSE steps in to aid flooding victims

Following last week'sunprecedented flooding in Newcastle West and surrounding areas, the services of the Health Service Executive were called upon to respond very quickly to the difficult circumstances in which people found themselves.

The Limerick Post newspaper reports that emergency accommodation was provided for a number of elderly people at St Ita's Hospital and the Mid Western Regional Hospital, Dooradoyle. Bed and Breakfast was also used for those who needed accommodation and this was funded through the Community Welfare Service.

The Environmental Health Service called to food premises in the affected area to advise on disposal of damaged food, clean up, sanitising operations and pest control. Advice was also given on food storage due to power cuts. The Environmental Health Officers (EHO's) liaised with Nursing Homes, the Health Centre and the Hospital, and were actively involved in checking chlorine levels in the public water supply throughout the town on Friday, August 1. Communication was maintained with Limerick County Council over the weekend regarding the potential threat to the public water supply due to flooding at the Water treatment plant.

A spokesperson for the Health Service Executive Mid-West said that EHO's continue to take phone calls from members of the public in affected areas regarding the clean up and to offer advice on public health issues where required. Monitoring of the public water supply is on going, she said.

Eircom teams are engaged in West Limerick repairs

Hundreds of Eircom customers throughout West Limerick had their telephone service disrupted last evening as a result of the heavy rainfall in recent days, the company has confirmed.

Eircom said the worst affected areas include Newcastlewest and Askeaton.

“Eircom's storm response plan has been in operation since last Saturday with significant extra resourcing deployed to assist our repair teams,” a statement said.

Boil Notice Issued Following Freak Flooding Incident In County Limerick

Limerick County Council has issued a public drinking water notice affecting hundreds of customers in Newcastle West and its environs.

The boil notice has been issued following the serious flooding experienced by the West Limerick town as a result of recent heavy rainfall. The Council confirmed that 93mm of rainfall, equivalent to a month’s rain, was recorded near Newcastle West over a five hour period late last night and early this morning.

The areas affected by the boil notice include Newcastle West, Coolcappagh and Rathcahill, as well as the Ballyine, Dually, Reens Kilscannell, Old Mill Road, Killoughteen and Killeline Group Water Supply Schemes.

According to Donal Brennan, A/Director of Services Transportation & Water Services, Limerick County Council, ‘Due to the recent extra-ordinary flooding, the production of water at the Newcastle West Water Treatment Plant is severely restricted. Limerick County Council is currently taking all steps to re-commence full production at the plant. The water in the service reservoirs, which was produced before the flooding, is almost exhausted.’

He added, ‘As the Water Services Authority for County Limerick, we wish to advise members of the public that water being supplied from now until further notice should not be used for human consumption except under a number of conditions and for certain purposes.’

Mr. Brennan said, ‘The Council wishes to thank the public for their support to date. A further notice will be issued in due course.’

Boil notice conditions:
Water for drinking purposes, brushing teeth and food preparation should be boiled. Boil the water to ensure a rolling vigorous boil and then allow it to cool. Cover it and store it in a fridge or cold place. Water from the hot tap is not safe to drink. Domestic filters will not guarantee that water is safe to drink. Discard ice cubes in fridges and freezers. Use water that has been prepared for drinking (i.e. that is boiled) for preparing foods that will not be cooked, e.g. for washing salads. It is safe to drink commercial bottled mineral water’, he explained.

Baby feeds should be prepared with water that has been brought to the boil once and cooled. Do not use water that has been reboiled several times. If tap water is unavailable, use bottled water that has been brought to the boil and cooled. Avoid using water that is fizzy, unless boiling has removed all the fizziness. Check the label: water in bottles labelled “natural mineral water” is not required to meet all the standards of tap waters. Do not use natural mineral water with concentrations greater than the following for infant feeding: sodium –200mg/l; Nitrate –50mg/l; Nitrite –0.5mg/l; Sulphate –250mg/l. Water may be used for flushing of toilets and for personal hygiene and bathing. Water may also be used for flushing of internal house plumbing.

Further information and advice is available from the following phone numbers: (061) 496326 (9.30am – 4.30pm Monday - Friday) or (061) 419226 (after hours).

Meanwhile, the Cathaoirleach of Limerick County Council has praised the response of the emergency services to this morning’s freak flooding incident in Newcastle West. Cllr John Gallahue complimented the combined response of Limerick County Council, Limerick Civil Defence, the Valentia Coast Guard, Limerick County Fire and Rescue, the ESB, the HSE, An Gardai Siochana and other emergency services.

“Thankfully no lives were lost during the incident, which is one of the most serious to have taken place in County Limerick for many years. The effective and coordinated response of the emergency services to this incident should be noted and complimented’, added the Cathaoirleach.

Public Drinking Water Conservation Notice Issued in Flood-Stricken Newcastle West

Limerick County Council has this afternoon issued a public drinking water conservation notice affecting hundreds of customers in Newcastle West and its environs.

The notice has been issued following the serious flooding experienced by the West Limerick town as a result of recent heavy rainfall. The Council confirmed that 93mm of rainfall, equivalent to a month’s rain, was recorded near Newcastle West over a five hour period late last night and early this morning.

According to Donal Brennan, A/Director of Services Transportation & Water Services, Limerick County Council, ‘Due to recent flooding, the production of water at the Newcastle West Water Treatment Plant has been temporarily ceased. Limerick County Council is currently endeavouring to re-commence production at the plant. In the interim, we would ask members of the public in the affected areas to conserve water usage.’

‘The Council wishes to thank the public for their support to date. However, in the meantime the public are asked to conserve water in the areas supplied by the Newcastle West Water Treatment Plant. A further update will be issued to the public and media later this evening’, added Mr. Brennan.

The areas affected by the water notice include Newcastle West, Coolcappagh and Rathcahill, as well as the Ballyine, Dually, Reens Kilscannell, Old Mill Road, Killoughteen and Killeline Group Water Supply Schemes.

Community Groups To ‘Play’ Direct Role

Community groups across County Limerick are set to take on a more direct role in developing playgrounds.

The move follows the launch by Limerick County Council of the ‘Community Playground Grant Scheme’, under which community groups rather than the Local Authority will steer the playground programme. Today’s launch also featured the unveiling of plans to develop a new playground in Askeaton.

Local Councillor and Cathaoirleach of Limerick County Council, Kevin Sheahan, commented, “I am delighted to see that under the Community Playground Grant Scheme the Council will continue to offer advice and, where necessary, technical assistance to communities in developing playgrounds.” The Cathaoirleach expressed confidence that the new partnership approach to developing play facilities would play a significant role in improving the quality of life for local communities across Limerick.

“I would like to congratulate the county’s community groups on the vital role they have already played in developing playgrounds throughout County Limerick. Considering they are working on a voluntary basis it is important that they are supported locally in conjunction with Limerick County Council. The Council looks forward to this positive working relationship continuing into the future with the result that we are making the county a better places to live in and visit”, Councillor Sheahan added.

The process of making the provision of playgrounds more community led was progressed in February 2008 when a draft policy on the matter was endorsed by Limerick County Council’s Social, Cultural and Community Development Strategic Policy Committee. The initiative was referred to and endorsed by all 28 elected representatives of Limerick County Council in March.

Councillor Francis Foley, Chair of the Community & Cultural SPC, described the Community Playground Grant Scheme as a wonderful opportunity to show what can be achieved when the community and local authority worked together. He stated, “The community led playground programme is being fully supported by all local elected representatives, as it will empower community groups to drive the process forward. Under this scheme, the Council will continue to support community groups in delivering further improvements in the quality, quantity and safety of play and play areas throughout the county.”

Under the County Limerick Play Plan 2006-2010, Limerick County Council and local community groups have initiated numerous playground projects throughout the county. Play facilities have been provided at Kilmallock, Cappamore and Newcastle West, while new playgrounds are being constructed in Castletroy and Abbeyfeale. Further playgrounds are planned for Askeaton, Rathkeale, Croom, Kilfinane, Castleconnell and Bruff.

Ms. Josephine Cotter Coughlan, Director of Services, Community & Enterprise, stated that there were many benefits associated with a community-led playground programme. She commented, “Groups generally have undertaken fundraising in advance, in certain instances over a number of years, which allows Council funding to be allocated to more groups. A strong, dedicated community playground group exists prior to Council funding being allocated. Local groups have a better understanding of the needs of the locality. Groups manage and maintain the playgrounds after completion. It may be easier for community groups to get land to provide playgrounds and directly negotiate better deals with suppliers.”

Ms. Cotter Coughlan confirmed that Limerick County Council was now inviting expressions of interest from recognised community groups who wished to provide a children’s playground for their area. “Limerick County Council’s policy with regard to playgrounds is that it will assess applications for grants by assessing the benefit to the community and the geographical location of the proposed playground in relation to existing playgrounds. Meanwhile, the community association proposing the playground will be responsible for the design, planning, tendering and construction of the playground”, she concluded.

Limerick County Council will part fund each playground to a maximum amount of €55,000 or 70% of the total cost, whichever is the lower. It will liase with the groups through each of the steps of the process, and is available to provide advice and assistance to the groups.

50 Years Of Irish Credit Union Movement Celebrated In Limerick

The 50th anniversary of the founding of the Irish credit union movement was today marked by an official function at Limerick County Hall in Dooradoyle.

The Board of Directors of the Irish League of Credit Unions attended the event a day ahead of the organisation’s Annual General Meeting at the University of Limerick. There are currently 521 credit unions affiliated to the Irish League of Credit Unions with 2.9m members and €13.4m in savings. Credit unions can be found at 25 locations throughout Limerick City and County, including Askeaton, Bruff, Athea, Rathkeale, Castletroy, Glin, Castleconnell, Abbeyfeale, Kilmallock, Mungret, Ahane and Newcastle West.

Addressing those in attendance at today’s function, Councillor Kevin Sheahan, Cathaoirleach of Limerick County Council, commented, “It is heartening to see that in a world of global banking and other financial institutions that there is still a place and demand for community-driven cooperative financial institutions.” He said, “Credit unions in Limerick are extremely varied in their size, membership and in the range of services they offer. However, they all share a basic philosophy and set of principles. That is to offer members the chance to have control over their own finances by making their own savings work for them. By saving together and lending to each other at a fair and reasonable rate of interest, our credit unions continue that generations-old Irish tradition of co-operative self-help.”

The Cathaoirleach said he believed that that the success of the credit union movement contributed greatly to the development of the Irish economy. He explained, “We should not lose site of the fact that the Irish credit union movement was established in response to the scarce availability and poor management of money in this country. Long before Ireland became a prosperous nation, the Irish League of Credit Union Unions was developing a system whereby people were empowered to gain more control over their finances.”

“While the Celtic Tiger has been and gone and the financial burdens on families and individuals are greater than ever, there is no doubt that our credit unions will continue to provide a helping hand for members of the community for many years to come”, concluded Councillor Sheahan.

The Irish credit union movement was founded in 1958 as a result of the efforts of three dynamic, pioneering and entrepreneurial people namely Nora Herlihy, from Ballydesmond, a teacher based in Dublin; Sean Forde, an employee of Peter Kennedy Bakers, Dublin; and, Séamus P. MacEoin from Kilkenny a Civil Servant working in Dublin. The international credit union movement has its origins in mid-19th century Germany and now has affiliates in 97 countries.