theirishtimes--2020-04-22--Voluntary bodies warned of funding cuts unless staff redeploy, Siptu claims

Some voluntary grant-aided organisations in the health and social care areas are being threatened with funding cuts unless their staff redeploy elsewhere across the health system , the trade union Siptu has said .
The union said on Wednesday that over recent days members in some organisations – known technically as section 39 bodies – had been instructed to transfer to HSE facilities .
Section 39 agencies receive grants from the HSE to deliver health and social services .
Staff in such organisations are not considered by Government to be public service personnel .
Siptu health division organiser Paul Bell @ @ @ @ @ @ @ union ’ s members “ have been threatened that they will suffer a loss of HSE funding if staff do not redeploy to other health facilities ” .
He said in some cases , staff in section 39 organisations had been asked to move to Covid-19community hubs that have been established across the country by the HSE .
The union said it was seeking assurances that staff working for these organisations would not be forced to redeploy to HSE facilities “ to which they have no contractual obligations or the necessary qualifications to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is understood HSE management maintained that because some section 39 organisations could no longer provide services due to Government restrictions arising from coronavirus , either staff would be redeployed or the financial allocation would be cut .
This could lead to the furloughing or lay-off of personnel .
“ Union representatives have sought to engage with the HSE in order to reach an agreement which would allow section 39 workers to volunteer their services to other health service settings for the duration of the Covid-19 crisis .
Such an agreement would be based @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the voluntary redeployment of HSE staff to private nursing homes , ” Mr Bell said .
The HSE was asked for comment on the Siptu statement .
Last week , a deal was reached between trade unions and the HSE that would see some health service staff volunteer to work in private nursing homes that have been affected by the pandemic .
Siptu public administration organiser Adrian Kane said that the HSE and the Government had treated section 39 employees as public service employees for redeployment purposes but “ had refused for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ them when it comes to their pay and conditions of employment ” by claiming that they are not public service staff .
“ Yet , in the past week , employees of section 39 bodies have received correspondence informing them that they will be liable to disciplinary action , up to and including dismissal , if they do not make themselves available for redeployment to the HSE or other unspecified organisations .
This is simply not acceptable , ” he said .

Siptu’s Paul Bell says the employers of some of the union’s members ‘have been threatened that they will suffer a loss of HSE funding if staff do not redeploy to other health facilities’. Photograph: Nick Bradshaw
Some voluntary grant-aided organisations in the health and social care areas are being threatened with funding cuts unless their staff redeploy elsewhere across the health system, the trade union Siptu has said.
The union said on Wednesday that over recent days members in some organisations – known technically as section 39 bodies – had been instructed to transfer to HSE facilities.
Section 39 agencies receive grants from the HSE to deliver health and social services. Staff in such organisations are not considered by Government to be public service personnel.
Siptu health division organiser Paul Bell said the employers of some of the union's members "have been threatened that they will suffer a loss of HSE funding if staff do not redeploy to other health facilities".
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He said in some cases, staff in section 39 organisations had been asked to move to Covid-19community hubs that have been established across the country by the HSE.
The union said it was seeking assurances that staff working for these organisations would not be forced to redeploy to HSE facilities “to which they have no contractual obligations or the necessary qualifications to care for vulnerable patients”.
It is understood HSE management maintained that because some section 39 organisations could no longer provide services due to Government restrictions arising from coronavirus, either staff would be redeployed or the financial allocation would be cut. This could lead to the furloughing or lay-off of personnel.
Volunteer
“Union representatives have sought to engage with the HSE in order to reach an agreement which would allow section 39 workers to volunteer their services to other health service settings for the duration of the Covid-19 crisis. Such an agreement would be based on principles similar to those recently agreed for the voluntary redeployment of HSE staff to private nursing homes,” Mr Bell said.
The HSE was asked for comment on the Siptu statement.
Last week, a deal was reached between trade unions and the HSE that would see some health service staff volunteer to work in private nursing homes that have been affected by the pandemic.
Siptu public administration organiser Adrian Kane said that the HSE and the Government had treated section 39 employees as public service employees for redeployment purposes but "had refused for several years to honour its obligations to them when it comes to their pay and conditions of employment" by claiming that they are not public service staff.
“Yet, in the past week, employees of section 39 bodies have received correspondence informing them that they will be liable to disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal, if they do not make themselves available for redeployment to the HSE or other unspecified organisations. This is simply not acceptable,” he said.


theirishtimes--2020-04-22--‘No evidence’ Covid-19 can be transmitted by food or packaging

With shoppers visiting supermarkets in record numbers since the start of the coronavirus crisis , Ireland ’ s food safety watchdog has been prompted to clarify the key steps people need to take to keep themselves safe as they stock up on essentials .
Recent retail data has shown that March was the biggest month of grocery sales recorded in Ireland with spending climbing by an average of 27 per cent with even more significant increases reported in some frozen foods and ambient food sections .
There have also been reports of people taking drastic steps such as washing their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ products in quarantine for as much as 72 hours to ensure there are no traces of Covid-19 on packaging .
Such actions are not needed , according to Dr Linda Gordon , the chief specialist in microbiology with Safefood .
“ Currently , there is no evidence that Covid-19 can be transmitted by food or food packaging , ” she said .
She stressed that it was “ important to follow good hygiene practices when handling or preparing foods .
You should always wash your hands and surfaces often , separate raw meat @ @ @ @ @ @ @ right temperature and put food in the fridge as soon as you can.
” She said people should not wash or disinfect food packaging .
“ It ’ s not necessary to sanitise the outside of food packaging as there is no current evidence that the virus can be transmitted in this way.
” She stressed that the main risk of transmission remained from close contact with infected people .
“ Our advice is to maintain good hygiene habits and to wash your hands regularly and to follow current public health guidelines re @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to consumers who may find themselves cooking more than they usually do .
“ Typically , if there is food left over after a meal , get it into the fridge within two hours – you can help cool it more quickly by dividing it into smaller portions .
However , remember that cooked rice is high-risk and must be cooled and put in the fridge within one hour .
Any leftovers properly stored should be eaten within three days but if you ’ re in any doubt , throw it out into @ @ @ @ @ @ @ significant increase in online food shopping had highlighted the importance of storing and handling food at home properly .
“ As we would normally do , put away shopping as soon as you get it , especially perishable foods which must be stored in the fridge or freezer , ” Dr Gordon said .
“ And always wash your hands after handling any food packaging and before you begin to prepare food .
If you ’ re going food shopping for yourself or others , wash your hands before you go and , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ again after you unpack your shopping .
”

There have been reports of people washing their groceries before storing them or leaving products in quarantine for 72 hours. Photographer: Dara Mac Dónaill
With shoppers visiting supermarkets in record numbers since the start of the coronavirus crisis, Ireland’s food safety watchdog has been prompted to clarify the key steps people need to take to keep themselves safe as they stock up on essentials.
Recent retail data has shown that March was the biggest month of grocery sales recorded in Ireland with spending climbing by an average of 27 per cent with even more significant increases reported in some frozen foods and ambient food sections.
There have also been reports of people taking drastic steps such as washing their groceries before storing them and even leaving products in quarantine for as much as 72 hours to ensure there are no traces of Covid-19 on packaging.
Such actions are not needed, according to Dr Linda Gordon, the chief specialist in microbiology with Safefood.
READ MORE
“Currently, there is no evidence that Covid-19 can be transmitted by food or food packaging,” she said.
She stressed that it was “important to follow good hygiene practices when handling or preparing foods. You should always wash your hands and surfaces often, separate raw meat from other foods, cook to the right temperature and put food in the fridge as soon as you can.”
She said people should not wash or disinfect food packaging. “It’s not necessary to sanitise the outside of food packaging as there is no current evidence that the virus can be transmitted in this way.”
She stressed that the main risk of transmission remained from close contact with infected people. “Our advice is to maintain good hygiene habits and to wash your hands regularly and to follow current public health guidelines re social distancing.”
Two hours
She also offered advice to consumers who may find themselves cooking more than they usually do.
“Typically, if there is food left over after a meal, get it into the fridge within two hours – you can help cool it more quickly by dividing it into smaller portions. However, remember that cooked rice is high-risk and must be cooled and put in the fridge within one hour. Any leftovers properly stored should be eaten within three days but if you’re in any doubt, throw it out into your brown bin.”
She said a significant increase in online food shopping had highlighted the importance of storing and handling food at home properly.
“As we would normally do, put away shopping as soon as you get it, especially perishable foods which must be stored in the fridge or freezer,” Dr Gordon said. “And always wash your hands after handling any food packaging and before you begin to prepare food. If you’re going food shopping for yourself or others, wash your hands before you go and, as soon as you come home and again after you unpack your shopping.”


theirishtimes--2020-04-22--Simon Harris sorry for ‘awful boo-boo’ about 18 viruses before Covid-19

Minister for Health Simon Harris has apologised for making what he called an “ awful boo-boo ” by incorrectly saying during a radio interview that there were 18 other coronaviruses before Covid-19 .
Mr Harris made the error when explaining during an interview on RTÉ 2FM ’ s breakfast show on Wednesday why a vaccine may not be found for the current coronavirus for some time .
“ Remember this is coronavirus Covid-19 - that means there have been 18 other coronaviruses and I don ’ t think they have actually successfully found a vaccine for any , ” he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s chief medical officer Dr Tony Holohan was asked to clarify this remark at the Department of Health ’ s daily briefing on the pandemic on Wednesday .
Dr Holohan said Covid-19 was the seventh coronavirus and that it had been named after the year in which it first occurred .
“ The ‘ 19 ’ comes from the name in the year which it arose , ” Dr Holohan explained .
Following the briefing , Mr Harris posted a video on Twitter acknowledging and apologising for his mistake .
He told @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an awful boo-boo.
” “ Don ’ t ask me how or why ; I can only presume it ’ s a degree of cabin fever after being in this department on a very , very regular basis for the very last while - maybe a bit of sleep deprivation - I stupidly talked about there being 18 other coronaviruses , which of course there isn ’ t , ” he said .
The minister struck a self-deprecating tone in his video , saying that he can be an “ awful old idiot @ @ @ @ @ @ @ any confusion that his error caused .
Mr Harris said he was trying to make a point in the earlier interview that the public have to accept the reality that this virus “ might be with us for quite a period of time ” and that it had to be suppressed to a “ safe enough level ” so that people can “ live alongside it.
” “ My apologies for making a stupid mistake this morning , ” he said .
“ Don ’ t tell anybody but I am human and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The disease caused by the virus that has killed more than 180,000 people around the globe , including more than 700 in the Republic , is called Covid-19 .
It is derived from Corona ( Co ) Virus ( vi ) Disease ( d ) and 19 , denoting the year 2019 that it first emerged in .
Kellyann Conway , counsellor to US president Donald Trump , made a similar mistake last week around the name when criticising the World Health Organisation ( WHO ) .
“ Some of the scientists and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ strains later on , that this could come back in the Fall in a limited way , ” she said in an interview on the Fox US television network .
“ This is Covid-19 , not Covid-1 folks , and so you would think that the people in charge of the World Health Organisation facts and figures would be on top of that.
” She was speaking about Mr Trump ’ s decision to halt funding to the WHO after he criticised the organisation for not doing enough to stop the spread of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ China .

Minister for Health Simon Harris has apologised for making what he called an “awful boo-boo” by incorrectly saying during a radio interview that there were 18 other coronaviruses before Covid-19.
Mr Harris made the error when explaining during an interview on RTÉ 2FM’s breakfast show on Wednesday why a vaccine may not be found for the current coronavirus for some time.
“Remember this is coronavirus Covid-19 - that means there have been 18 other coronaviruses and I don’t think they have actually successfully found a vaccine for any,” he said in the interview.
In fairness to @SimonHarrisTD he’s not hiding away from what he describes as “an awful boo-boo” - this is from a Twitter video he did this evening pic.twitter.com/X3FkZv8cr3 — Gavan Reilly (@gavreilly) April 22, 2020
The State’s chief medical officer Dr Tony Holohan was asked to clarify this remark at the Department of Health’s daily briefing on the pandemic on Wednesday. Dr Holohan said Covid-19 was the seventh coronavirus and that it had been named after the year in which it first occurred.
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“The ‘19’ comes from the name in the year which it arose,” Dr Holohan explained.
Cabin fever
Following the briefing, Mr Harris posted a video on Twitter acknowledging and apologising for his mistake.
He told his 146,000 followers that he made “an awful boo-boo.”
“Don’t ask me how or why; I can only presume it’s a degree of cabin fever after being in this department on a very, very regular basis for the very last while - maybe a bit of sleep deprivation - I stupidly talked about there being 18 other coronaviruses, which of course there isn’t,” he said.
The minister struck a self-deprecating tone in his video, saying that he can be an “awful old idiot at times”. He apologised for any confusion that his error caused.
Mr Harris said he was trying to make a point in the earlier interview that the public have to accept the reality that this virus “might be with us for quite a period of time” and that it had to be suppressed to a “safe enough level” so that people can “live alongside it.”
“My apologies for making a stupid mistake this morning,” he said.
“Don’t tell anybody but I am human and it happens from time to time.”
The disease caused by the virus that has killed more than 180,000 people around the globe, including more than 700 in the Republic, is called Covid-19. It is derived from Corona (Co) Virus (vi) Disease (d) and 19, denoting the year 2019 that it first emerged in.
US mistake
Kellyann Conway, counsellor to US president Donald Trump, made a similar mistake last week around the name when criticising the World Health Organisation (WHO).
“Some of the scientists and doctors say that there could be other strains later on, that this could come back in the Fall in a limited way,” she said in an interview on the Fox US television network.
“This is Covid-19, not Covid-1 folks, and so you would think that the people in charge of the World Health Organisation facts and figures would be on top of that.”
She was speaking about Mr Trump’s decision to halt funding to the WHO after he criticised the organisation for not doing enough to stop the spread of the virus after it first emerged in China.


theirishtimes--2020-04-22--Probationary Garda who failed part of physical exam loses injunction bid

A probationary Garda has failed to get a temporary injunction preventing the Garda Commissioner dispensing with her services .
Emma Roche claims the decision to end her time as a member of An Garda Síochána arises out of her failure , on a number of occasions between 2017 and 2019 , to pass part of a physical examination known as a beep test .
The test comprises of two shuttle runs 20 metres apart before a beep sound is given .
The court heard Ms Roche had passed all other requirements and she said she was sworn as a fully @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ceremony at Templemore in 2017 .
She had previously been a member of the Garda reserve and all she wanted to do was serve as a member of the organisation in which her father had served for many years , the court was told .
Her counsel John Temple said Ms Roche had been stationed at Mountjoy Garda Station in Dublin , had an “ exemplary record ” in the area she had served and had received references from other members of An Garda Síochána including her superiors .
Ms Roche claimed the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ her services was unfair and , in High Court proceedings against the Commissioner , she sought various orders , including an injunction allowing her continue to work as a garda pending the full hearing of the case .
Represented by Mr Temple , instructed by solicitor Ciaran Mulholland , Ms Roche previously got permission to serve short notice of the injunction proceedings on the Commissioner .
The application for the injunction was opposed by Martin Fitzgerald BL , for the Commissioner .
In a ruling on Wednesday , Mr Justice Michael Twomey refused @ @ @ @ @ @ @ issue in the injunction application was the fact Ms Roche had been informed last October her services were to be dispensed with on April 10th .
This was before her lawyers came to court over the Easter weekend seeking various orders , including the temporary injunction .
While the court was not saying the points raised by Ms Roche in her case would not succeed at a full hearing of the matter , the Commissioner ’ s decision had already come into effect and , at this stage , could not be injuncted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ arose after the Commissioner notified Ms Roche last October a decision had been taken to dispense with her services as a member of An Garda Síochána .
She appealed that decision through the Garda Representative Association and her probationary period was extended on occasions .
Earlier this year , she was informed the Commissioner intended to proceed with the decision to dispense with her services .

The court heard she had previously been a member of the Garda reserve and all she wanted to do was serve as a member of the organisation in which her father had served for many years.
A probationary Garda has failed to get a temporary injunction preventing the Garda Commissioner dispensing with her services.
Emma Roche claims the decision to end her time as a member of An Garda Síochána arises out of her failure, on a number of occasions between 2017 and 2019, to pass part of a physical examination known as a beep test.
The test comprises of two shuttle runs 20 metres apart before a beep sound is given.
The court heard Ms Roche had passed all other requirements and she said she was sworn as a fully attested member of the Garda following a ceremony at Templemore in 2017.
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She had previously been a member of the Garda reserve and all she wanted to do was serve as a member of the organisation in which her father had served for many years, the court was told.
Her counsel John Temple said Ms Roche had been stationed at Mountjoy Garda Station in Dublin, had an “exemplary record” in the area she had served and had received references from other members of An Garda Síochána including her superiors.
Ms Roche claimed the Commissioner's decision to dispense with her services was unfair and, in High Court proceedings against the Commissioner, she sought various orders, including an injunction allowing her continue to work as a garda pending the full hearing of the case.
Represented by Mr Temple, instructed by solicitor Ciaran Mulholland, Ms Roche previously got permission to serve short notice of the injunction proceedings on the Commissioner.
The application for the injunction was opposed by Martin Fitzgerald BL, for the Commissioner.
In a ruling on Wednesday, Mr Justice Michael Twomey refused the injunction.
He said the key issue in the injunction application was the fact Ms Roche had been informed last October her services were to be dispensed with on April 10th.
This was before her lawyers came to court over the Easter weekend seeking various orders, including the temporary injunction.
While the court was not saying the points raised by Ms Roche in her case would not succeed at a full hearing of the matter, the Commissioner’s decision had already come into effect and, at this stage, could not be injuncted, the judge said.
The application arose after the Commissioner notified Ms Roche last October a decision had been taken to dispense with her services as a member of An Garda Síochána.
She appealed that decision through the Garda Representative Association and her probationary period was extended on occasions.
Earlier this year, she was informed the Commissioner intended to proceed with the decision to dispense with her services.


theirishtimes--2020-04-22--Handgun seized by gardaí in Limerick

Handgun seized by gardaí in Limerick

Gardaí in Limerick have seized a handgun and other items linked to criminal activity .
The weapon was uncovered during @ @ @ @ @ by gardaí of a number of properties and public areas in Patrickswell and Cappagh , @ @ @ @ @ Gardaí from a number of stations including Roxboro Road , Henry Street , Newcastle West @ @ @ @ @ the ongoing operation which is targeting organised crime in the Limerick area .
It is @ @ @ @ @ on waste ground at Lisheen Park , Patrickswell which is located about 6km outside Limerick @ @ @ @ @ now be sent for ballistic analysis to examine if it can be linked to any @ @ @ @ @ recovered during Wednesday ’ s searches include pepper spray , jewellery , mobile phones , @ @ @ @ @ well as more than €2,000 in cash comprising euro and sterling .
A Garda spokeswoman @ @ @ @ @ made but the investigation was ongoing .

The weapon was found on waste ground at Lisheen Park, Patrickswell which is located about 6km outside Limerick city. Photograph: Frank Miller / The Irish Times
Gardaí in Limerick have seized a handgun and other items linked to criminal activity.
The weapon was uncovered during a series of planned searches by gardaí of a number of properties and public areas in Patrickswell and Cappagh, Co Limerick on Wednesday.
Gardaí from a number of stations including Roxboro Road, Henry Street, Newcastle West and Mayorstone were involved in the ongoing operation which is targeting organised crime in the Limerick area.
It is understood the weapon was found on waste ground at Lisheen Park, Patrickswell which is located about 6km outside Limerick city.
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The firearm will now be sent for ballistic analysis to examine if it can be linked to any shooting incidents.
Other items recovered during Wednesday’s searches include pepper spray, jewellery, mobile phones, documentation and drug paraphernalia as well as more than €2,000 in cash comprising euro and sterling.
A Garda spokeswoman said no arrests had been made but the investigation was ongoing.


theirishtimes--2020-04-22--Ending North’s lockdown will be based on ‘science applicable to Northern Ireland’

The North ’ s Minister for Health has said any decision to exit the lockdown will take account of the all-island position , but will be based on “ the science that is applicable to Northern Ireland ” .
The number of coronavirus-related deaths in the North ’ s hospitals rose to 250 on Wednesday , according to Department of Health figures .
This included eight deaths on Tuesday as well as 26 additional fatalities which the department said happened in previous days and have now been added to the record .
According to provisional data from the Public Health @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Covid-19 in nursing and residential homes in the North as of April 20th .
The Minister , Robin Swann , said any decision on steps to relax restrictions would be a matter for the executive , which would “ take cognisance of what is happening in the rest of the United Kingdom and also in the Republic of Ireland , but , crucially , [ is ] based on the scientific fact of medical evidence of where we are at any particular time ” .
In response to a question to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ministers Arlene Foster and Michelle O ’ Neill , a spokeswoman for the executive said : “ A memorandum of understanding is in place between the executive and the Irish Government which sets out that , where possible and where appropriate , there will be consistency of approach in dealing with the pandemic.
” It is understood the memorandum of understanding is to be discussed at a meeting of the Stormont health committee on Thursday .
On Wednesday , the North ’ s chief medical officer , Dr Michael McBride , took part @ @ @ @ @ @ @ counterpart , Dr Tony Holohan , “ in relation to mapping our way forward in the next phase of our response ” .
Dr McBride said there was “ no doubt that we share a common land mass with our close colleagues and neighbours in the Republic of Ireland , and that is something we will closely need to consider ” .
He said the virus on the island of Ireland was “ behaving very similarly ” in both jurisdictions , “ and differently to other parts of the United Kingdom ” .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ executive over whether to follow London or Dublin in tackling the pandemic , with unionists favouring the UK approach and nationalists advocating one more in line with the Republic and the World Health Organisation ( WHO ) .
In a statement the DUP said “ we want to see close collaboration throughout the British Isles .
Our approach will not be based on politics , but led by the expert evidence and advice.
” A Sinn Féin statement said “ now is not the time for lifting restrictions which were put in place @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
We need to ensure that saving lives remains the priority.
” Both the SDLP and the Alliance Party have raised the need for a co-ordinated approach on the island of Ireland .
“ Given the common travel area , and cross-Border working and living , the approach should be co-ordinated , ” an Alliance Party spokesman said .
The SDLP leader , Colum Eastwood , has called for the quick implementation of an island-wide testing and tracing regime which uses “ the advantages of our geography ” .

Robin Swann: he says any decision to exit the lockdown will take account of the all-island position, but will be based on “the science that is applicable to Northern Ireland”. Photograph: Getty Images
The North’s Minister for Health has said any decision to exit the lockdown will take account of the all-island position, but will be based on “the science that is applicable to Northern Ireland”.
The number of coronavirus-related deaths in the North's hospitals rose to 250 on Wednesday, according to Department of Health figures. This included eight deaths on Tuesday as well as 26 additional fatalities which the department said happened in previous days and have now been added to the record.
According to provisional data from the Public Health Agency, there were 297 confirmed cases of Covid-19 in nursing and residential homes in the North as of April 20th.
The Minister, Robin Swann, said any decision on steps to relax restrictions would be a matter for the executive, which would "take cognisance of what is happening in the rest of the United Kingdom and also in the Republic of Ireland, but, crucially, [is] based on the scientific fact of medical evidence of where we are at any particular time".
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In response to a question to the North's First and Deputy First Ministers Arlene Foster and Michelle O'Neill, a spokeswoman for the executive said: "A memorandum of understanding is in place between the executive and the Irish Government which sets out that, where possible and where appropriate, there will be consistency of approach in dealing with the pandemic."
It is understood the memorandum of understanding is to be discussed at a meeting of the Stormont health committee on Thursday.
On Wednesday, the North's chief medical officer, Dr Michael McBride, took part in a conference call with his Irish counterpart, Dr Tony Holohan, "in relation to mapping our way forward in the next phase of our response".
Dr McBride said there was “no doubt that we share a common land mass with our close colleagues and neighbours in the Republic of Ireland, and that is something we will closely need to consider”.
He said the virus on the island of Ireland was “behaving very similarly” in both jurisdictions, “and differently to other parts of the United Kingdom”.
There have previously been divisions within the executive over whether to follow London or Dublin in tackling the pandemic, with unionists favouring the UK approach and nationalists advocating one more in line with the Republic and the World Health Organisation (WHO).
Collaboration
In a statement the DUP said “we want to see close collaboration throughout the British Isles. Our approach will not be based on politics, but led by the expert evidence and advice.”
A Sinn Féin statement said “now is not the time for lifting restrictions which were put in place to protect the public and save lives. We need to ensure that saving lives remains the priority.”
Both the SDLP and the Alliance Party have raised the need for a co-ordinated approach on the island of Ireland.
“Given the common travel area, and cross-Border working and living, the approach should be co-ordinated,” an Alliance Party spokesman said.
The SDLP leader, Colum Eastwood, has called for the quick implementation of an island-wide testing and tracing regime which uses "the advantages of our geography".


theirishtimes--2020-04-22--Man jailed for sexual assaults on child his partner was babysitting

A man has been jailed for 8½ years for the repeated sexual assault of a four-year-old child his partner was babysitting .
The case saw one of the youngest complainants ever giving evidence and being cross-examined during a nine-day trial at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court .
The 59-year-old man , who can not be named to protect the identity of the victim , denied the charges .
He was convicted in January of two charges of sexually assaulting the girl at his Dublin home on dates between July 2016 and July 2017 .
After the conviction , a message on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s name and address and incited violence against his family and the family home .
Judge Elma Sheahan said this was completely unacceptable but noted there was no suggestion that the message was linked to any of the parties in the case .
Pauline Walley SC , prosecuting , previously told the court that it would be wrong to take the Facebook posting into account given they didn ’ t know the source of the posting .
John Fitzgerald SC , defending , submitted that the court was entitled to take “ extra-judicial @ @ @ @ @ @ @ when imposing sentence .
Judge Sheahan noted the matter was under Garda investigation and said she would take it into consideration .
The man ’ s family had been very friendly for a number of years with the child ’ s mother and his daughter and wife began minding the child when she was an infant .
During the summer of 2017 the child told her mother that the man had licked and touched her “ bum ” , by which she meant her genital area .
Judge Sheahan said the offending was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on a vulnerable child .
She said it involved premeditation , noting on some occasions the man molested the child on a couch under cover of a blanket while others were in the room .
She noted the psychological effects on the child as set out in the victim impact statement of the child ’ s mother .
In that , the mother said the child suffers night terrors and bed wetting and had to move school to avoid any altercations on the playground .
Dr Charlotte Murphy , a forensic scientist with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that she determined that DNA found on a saliva stained section of the child ’ s underwear matched the DNA profile of the accused man .
Judge Sheahan noted that the man does not accept the jury verdict and , accordingly , there was no expressions of remorse .
She set headline sentences of seven years and 9½ years for the two offences .
After noting the mitigating factors in the case , she reduced these to 6½ and 8½ years , to run concurrently .
She said that because he refuses to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to justify suspending a portion of the prison term to incentivise rehabilitation .

A man has been jailed for the repeated sexual assault of a four-year-old child his partner was babysitting. Photograph: Dave Meehan
A man has been jailed for 8½ years for the repeated sexual assault of a four-year-old child his partner was babysitting.
The case saw one of the youngest complainants ever giving evidence and being cross-examined during a nine-day trial at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. The 59-year-old man, who cannot be named to protect the identity of the victim, denied the charges.
He was convicted in January of two charges of sexually assaulting the girl at his Dublin home on dates between July 2016 and July 2017.
After the conviction, a message on a Facebook page revealed the man's name and address and incited violence against his family and the family home. Judge Elma Sheahan said this was completely unacceptable but noted there was no suggestion that the message was linked to any of the parties in the case.
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Garda investigation
Pauline Walley SC, prosecuting, previously told the court that it would be wrong to take the Facebook posting into account given they didn’t know the source of the posting.
John Fitzgerald SC, defending, submitted that the court was entitled to take “extra-judicial punishment of this nature” into consideration when imposing sentence.
Judge Sheahan noted the matter was under Garda investigation and said she would take it into consideration.
The man’s family had been very friendly for a number of years with the child’s mother and his daughter and wife began minding the child when she was an infant. During the summer of 2017 the child told her mother that the man had licked and touched her “bum”, by which she meant her genital area.
Judge Sheahan said the offending was an “egregious breach of trust” on a vulnerable child. She said it involved premeditation, noting on some occasions the man molested the child on a couch under cover of a blanket while others were in the room.
She noted the psychological effects on the child as set out in the victim impact statement of the child’s mother. In that, the mother said the child suffers night terrors and bed wetting and had to move school to avoid any altercations on the playground.
Dr Charlotte Murphy, a forensic scientist with Forensic Science Ireland, told the trial that she determined that DNA found on a saliva stained section of the child's underwear matched the DNA profile of the accused man.
Judge Sheahan noted that the man does not accept the jury verdict and, accordingly, there was no expressions of remorse.
She set headline sentences of seven years and 9½ years for the two offences. After noting the mitigating factors in the case, she reduced these to 6½ and 8½ years, to run concurrently.
She said that because he refuses to accept the guilty verdicts there was nothing to justify suspending a portion of the prison term to incentivise rehabilitation.


theirishtimes--2020-04-22--Scientists, TDs call for change in policy on wearing face masks in public

Pressure has increased on the Government to require that face masks be worn routinely by the public to contain the Covid-19 virus , in line with a change in scientific opinion in favour of the measure .
Scientists and TDs have called for the change based on indication that basic face masks in social settings can prevent the spread of coronavirus .
Meanwhile , the Irish Nurses & Midwives Organisation has welcomed a change in national policy , which now mandates surgical face masks in all settings for any healthcare workers who provide care within 2m of a patient including @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The Health Information and Quality Authority , which advises the Government and HSE on healthcare standards , said it is “ currently reviewing international evidence on the effectiveness of face masks at reducing the transmission of respiratory viruses , including Covid-19 , both in healthcare settings and in the community ” .
This review would be published shortly , a Hiqa spokeswoman said .
In newly published guidelines , the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advises the wearing of basic masks including those made of cloth for all people in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the wearing of masks in such circumstances , while it is standard practice in many Asian countries in response to epidemics .
The World Health Organisation , however , has not advised such action though it is reviewing the latest scientific evidence .
In the past , it has warned that face masks can facilitate spread of the coronavirus , especially if they are used incorrectly .
It has also highlighted the critical need for higher spec face masks to be available for healthcare workers at a time of shortage of personal protection @ @ @ @ @ @ @ number of scientists , however , accept basic face masks may not prevent infection for a wearer but can protect others by not transmitting the virus they may not know they have – known as asymptomatic spread .
Immunologist Prof Luke O ’ Neill of Trinity College Dublin said he believed people will soon be required to wear masks in public .
He strongly recommended people wear them when going outside , citing evidence that when infected people speak they produce aerosols that carry the virus .
Infectious diseases specialist Prof Sam McConkey @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of masks by the public , but warned of unacceptable risk if it resulted in a shortage for frontline staff at a time when there is pressure to source PPE .
People Before Profit TD Bríd Smith called on HSE officials on Wednesday to prepare a plan to make face masks freely and widely available for the general public and those who wish to wear them in public places .
“ We see this happening in other European cities and countries , so I think it ’ s right that any member of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to work or school should have such masks freely available if they wish to wear them , ” she added .
She welcomed the change in policy on the use of protective equipment for healthcare workers , adding the change was especially welcome in nursing home settings .
“ The previous guidance was insane given the catastrophe we see in nursing homes , and the ability of the virus to spread via asymptomatic carriers.
” Fianna Fáil TD for Galway West Anne Rabbitte said the new policy “ should be extended to public @ @ @ @ @ @ @ healthcare professionals in the community ” .
INMO general secretary Phil Ní Sheaghdha said the revised policy was welcome news for frontline staff and patients , which should ease some anxiety and reduce transmission of the virus .
“ This should have been rolled out weeks ago , but we are glad to have finally secured this measure .
It will not only benefit frontline healthcare workers , but will reduce the risk of transmission to patients .
”

The Health Information and Quality Authority said it is reviewing international evidence on the effectiveness of face masks at reducing the transmission of respiratory viruses in the community. Photograph: Reuters/Massimo Pinca
Pressure has increased on the Government to require that face masks be worn routinely by the public to contain the Covid-19 virus, in line with a change in scientific opinion in favour of the measure.
Scientists and TDs have called for the change based on indication that basic face masks in social settings can prevent the spread of coronavirus.
Meanwhile, the Irish Nurses & Midwives Organisation has welcomed a change in national policy, which now mandates surgical face masks in all settings for any healthcare workers who provide care within 2m of a patient including where social distancing cannot be maintained.
The Health Information and Quality Authority, which advises the Government and HSE on healthcare standards, said it is “currently reviewing international evidence on the effectiveness of face masks at reducing the transmission of respiratory viruses, including Covid-19, both in healthcare settings and in the community”.
READ MORE
This review would be published shortly, a Hiqa spokeswoman said.
In newly published guidelines, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advises the wearing of basic masks including those made of cloth for all people in public spaces. Many other countries support the wearing of masks in such circumstances, while it is standard practice in many Asian countries in response to epidemics.
The World Health Organisation, however, has not advised such action though it is reviewing the latest scientific evidence. In the past, it has warned that face masks can facilitate spread of the coronavirus, especially if they are used incorrectly. It has also highlighted the critical need for higher spec face masks to be available for healthcare workers at a time of shortage of personal protection equipment (PPE).
Asymptomatic spread
A growing number of scientists, however, accept basic face masks may not prevent infection for a wearer but can protect others by not transmitting the virus they may not know they have – known as asymptomatic spread.
Immunologist Prof Luke O'Neill of Trinity College Dublin said he believed people will soon be required to wear masks in public. He strongly recommended people wear them when going outside, citing evidence that when infected people speak they produce aerosols that carry the virus.
Infectious diseases specialist Prof Sam McConkey of RCSI has also backed the wearing of masks by the public, but warned of unacceptable risk if it resulted in a shortage for frontline staff at a time when there is pressure to source PPE.
People Before Profit TD Bríd Smith called on HSE officials on Wednesday to prepare a plan to make face masks freely and widely available for the general public and those who wish to wear them in public places.
“We see this happening in other European cities and countries, so I think it’s right that any member of the public who is expected to return to work or school should have such masks freely available if they wish to wear them,” she added.
She welcomed the change in policy on the use of protective equipment for healthcare workers, adding the change was especially welcome in nursing home settings. “The previous guidance was insane given the catastrophe we see in nursing homes, and the ability of the virus to spread via asymptomatic carriers.”
Fianna Fáil TD for Galway West Anne Rabbitte said the new policy "should be extended to public health nurses, social care and other healthcare professionals in the community".
INMO general secretary Phil Ní Sheaghdha said the revised policy was welcome news for frontline staff and patients, which should ease some anxiety and reduce transmission of the virus.
“This should have been rolled out weeks ago, but we are glad to have finally secured this measure. It will not only benefit frontline healthcare workers, but will reduce the risk of transmission to patients.”


theirishtimes--2020-04-22--Most parents opposed to postponement of Leaving Cert exams - survey

A large majority of parents of Leaving Cert students are not in favour of the Government ’ s decision to postpone exams until August , according to a survey by the National Parents Council .
The poll of more than 30,000 parents - which included about 19,000 whose children are due to sit the Leaving Cert - found that 71 per cent were not in favour of deferring the exams .
Among the thousands of comments received from parents included concerns relating to student wellbeing , disadvantages due to learning at home and requests for alternative solutions for the assessment @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was carried out by the National Parents Council Post Primary between Thursday , 16th April and Wednesday , 22nd April .
Of parents with students who were due to complete the Junior Cycle exams , a majority - 60 per cent - indicated that replacing the exams with school-based tests in September was acceptable .
Earlier this month Mr McHugh announced that Junior Cycle exams for up to 60,000 students would be replaced with school-based tests in the new academic year .
However , a number of secondary schools say this move will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Instead , they are pressing ahead with their own exams and assessments between now and May .
On Wednesday , Minister for Education Joe McHugh asked schools to hold off cancelling Junior Cycle tests due next September until discussions take place with representatives of students , parents and schools .
A spokesman for the Department of Education said it was working with stakeholders in relation to details over the Junior Cycle exams and linked classroom-based assessments , assessment tasks and project work .
“ The Minister believes that it would be preferable @ @ @ @ @ @ @ consider their assessment arrangements for Junior Cycle students in 2020 , ” the spokesman said .
This group is due to meet on a number of occasions and it is understood that official guidance may not be issued for another week or more .
Ultimately , schools are likely to have the freedom to decide what forms or exams or assessments best meet the needs of their students given that the Junior Cycle will not be a State-certified exam this year .
The group is understood to be working on guidelines for schools @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and what kind of materials could be shared across schools .
Separately , the organisation which runs the Hpat admissions test - which is used to assist the selection of students into medicine and health professions degree programs - has said it will defer this year ’ s results until after the Leaving Certificate exams are complete .
This year ’ s exam took place February 22nd .
Results were due to be released in late June .
A new date for the results will be confirmed at a later stage .
Minister @ @ @ @ @ @ @ O ’ Connor welcomed the move .
“ Students can continue to focus on the upcoming exams without worrying about their Hpat results and we will continue to try to bring as much clarity to the situation as possible , ” she said .

The poll of more than 30,000 parents - which included about 19,000 whose children are due to sit the Leaving Cert - found that 71 per cent were not in favour of deferring the exams.
A large majority of parents of Leaving Cert students are not in favour of the Government's decision to postpone exams until August, according to a survey by the National Parents Council.
The poll of more than 30,000 parents - which included about 19,000 whose children are due to sit the Leaving Cert - found that 71 per cent were not in favour of deferring the exams.
Among the thousands of comments received from parents included concerns relating to student wellbeing, disadvantages due to learning at home and requests for alternative solutions for the assessment of students in 2020.
The survey was carried out by the National Parents Council Post Primary between Thursday, 16th April and Wednesday, 22nd April.
READ MORE
Of parents with students who were due to complete the Junior Cycle exams, a majority - 60 per cent - indicated that replacing the exams with school-based tests in September was acceptable.
Earlier this month Mr McHugh announced that Junior Cycle exams for up to 60,000 students would be replaced with school-based tests in the new academic year.
However, a number of secondary schools say this move will create unnecessary anxiety and stress among students.
Instead, they are pressing ahead with their own exams and assessments between now and May.
On Wednesday, Minister for Education Joe McHugh asked schools to hold off cancelling Junior Cycle tests due next September until discussions take place with representatives of students, parents and schools.
A spokesman for the Department of Education said it was working with stakeholders in relation to details over the Junior Cycle exams and linked classroom-based assessments, assessment tasks and project work.
“The Minister believes that it would be preferable that those discussions are concluded before schools consider their assessment arrangements for Junior Cycle students in 2020,” the spokesman said.
This group is due to meet on a number of occasions and it is understood that official guidance may not be issued for another week or more.
Ultimately, schools are likely to have the freedom to decide what forms or exams or assessments best meet the needs of their students given that the Junior Cycle will not be a State-certified exam this year.
The group is understood to be working on guidelines for schools to follow in holding exams for students and what kind of materials could be shared across schools.
Separately, the organisation which runs the Hpat admissions test - which is used to assist the selection of students into medicine and health professions degree programs - has said it will defer this year’s results until after the Leaving Certificate exams are complete.
This year’s exam took place February 22nd. Results were due to be released in late June. A new date for the results will be confirmed at a later stage.
Minister of State for higher education Mary Mitchell O’Connor welcomed the move. “Students can continue to focus on the upcoming exams without worrying about their Hpat results and we will continue to try to bring as much clarity to the situation as possible,” she said.


theirishtimes--2020-04-22--State exams Q&A: What is happening with the Leaving Cert and Junior Cycle?

When will the Leaving Cert begin , exactly ?
Minister for Education Joe McHugh is likely to formally announce that it will begin on Wednesday , July 29th .
He said in an interview this week that he is keen for it to start mid-way through a week - as is tradition - so students don ’ t face five exams in a row .
Why is it going to take so long to get a timetable for the exams ?
The official position is that a timetable won ’ t be available until early June .
This , says @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have access to the latest available public health advice .
In an interview on Tuesday night , he said the easing of restrictions will impact on what is possible .
For example , he said at present the maximum period a group of people can congregate indoors for is two hours , which would impact on the timing of individual exams .
These rules may change over the coming weeks , allowing longer exams to take place .
Over what period of time will the exams take place ?
Nothing is official yet @ @ @ @ @ @ @ holding one major exam a day for public health reasons .
The biggest exams - such as English , maths and Irish - could take place towards the start of the exam period to help speed up the marking process .
Multiple smaller exams could be held towards the end of the exam window .
This would see the Leaving Cert take place over a longer period and could stretch into early September - the 2nd of September has been mentioned - by the time all the exams are wrapped up .
How @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will go ahead ?
Nothing is guaranteed .
Mr McHugh said holding the exam in late July/August is the Department of Education ’ s “ plan A ” and all efforts will go towards making this happen .
He acknowledged , however , this was based on the assumption that the public will continue to abide by public health restrictions and that the Covid-19 curve flattens further .
As he said himself , the department is also examining “ plans , B , C , D and E .
.
.
” if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Why aren ’ t predicted grades being considered ?
Some other countries , such as the UK and France , are going down this route .
Mr McHugh said it has been ruled out because there was “ too much inherent bias ” in the system .
“ There ’ s the practicality of teachers ’ grading nieces , nephews , sons or daughters , or teachers who are easy markers or hard markers .
.
.
we don ’ t feel the policy of predicted grading is a fair system , ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ unions and school management bodies share this view , though most students - based on an Irish Second Level Students ’ Union poll - disagree .
Some education figures , however , maintain it is still possible and there are safeguards to deal with bias .
It has also been pointed out that the State Examinations Commission provides “ expected grades ” for students who - for reasons outside their control - can not complete their exams .
What measures are in place to assist students with poor broadband or a lack @ @ @ @ @ @ @ problem and threatens to widen the academic gap between the haves and have-nots .
On Wednesday , Mr McHugh announced a multi-million euro fund for schools to buy devices for disadvantaged students .
He also said the Government is working with telecoms companies to make a number of relevant websites “ zero rated ” .
This would allow students to access these sites with no data costs .
I ’ ve heard that the Junior Cycle is either cancelled or delayed .
What ’ s actually happening ?
The Junior Cycle as originally @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The Department of Education has replaced it with school-based exams which will not be graded by the State Examinations Commission .
The tests will be marked by teachers .
Students will not get a traditional Junior Certficate to mark their completion of three years of education .
They will , however , get a school-issued “ Junior Cycle Profile of Achievement ” which will reflect classroom-based assessments , assessment tasks and project work .
Do schools have to hold these tests in the next school year ?
Or can they hold their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Claregalway made headlines when it announced it will proceed with its own tests in May .
Presentation Secondary School in Kilkenny has taken a similar decision .
It is likely others will follow .
The rules are a bit of a grey area - though it is hard to see how schools can be compelled to provide Junior Cycle tests in the next academic year given that they are no longer State-certified exams .
Mr McHugh has asked schools to hold off announcing their own arrangements and is working on fresh pland @ @ @ @ @ @ @ other stakeholders .
I ’ m worried about contracting the virus in an exam hall .
What public health measures will be in place ?
These issues are still being worked on and will be guided by public health advice .
The cancellation of the Junior Cycle exams makes it much easier to hold exams in study halls where desks are at least two metres apart .
It is also likely there will be much greater use of “ special centres ” - or smaller exams centres , such as classrooms - for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that all measures will be guided by public health advice .
Will I be able to contact my teachers after the normal term ends in May ?
Teachers ’ unions have been told that the school term ends on Friday , May 29th .
Mr McHugh has asked that everyone at that point take a break for two weeks , but that a “ line of contact ” with schools/teachers be available remotely after these two weeks .
This is aimed at maintain a link with Leaving Cert students and helping to iron @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , rather than teaching normal classes .
It is then expected that from mid-July schools will reopen for two weeks .
I ’ ve heard the schools will reopen for two weeks in July .
When will this happen ?
Mr McHugh has requested that schools and teachers provide two weeks of school-based engagement for Leaving Cert students in July , ahead of the start of the exams .
This is likely to be from July 13th , though no official date has been announced .
Will it be safe to go back @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be in operation , so it is likely that classes will be split into smaller groups .
All teachers are being requested to return to school , so staff members will be available to support students for study skills , revision or other areas where they require help .
I ’ ve heard of some resistance from teachers ’ unions .
Will teachers actually be in school ?
There were contrasting signals from the two secondary teachers ’ unions when the decision to postpone the exams was first announced .
The TUI said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ students , while the ASTI signalled that the plans could not be enforced .
However , they both now seem to be on the same page and say that the needs of students must come first .
There , of course , may be genuine healthy reasons why some teachers will not be available to return in July .
When will we get our Leaving Cert results - and will colleges or further education courses start later as a result ?
No official date is available yet , though it is likely that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Third level colleges say they will be in a position to admit students in late October or early November .
Further education colleges will likely follow suit .
Colleges say they will cut short holidays and reading weeks so students finish up as normal in May .

Minister for Education Joe McHugh is likely to formally announce that the Leaving Cert will begin on Wednesday, July 29th.
When will the Leaving Cert begin, exactly?
Minister for Education Joe McHugh is likely to formally announce that it will begin on Wednesday, July 29th. He said in an interview this week that he is keen for it to start mid-way through a week - as is tradition - so students don't face five exams in a row.
Why is it going to take so long to get a timetable for the exams ?
The official position is that a timetable won't be available until early June. This, says Mr McHugh, will allow officials to have access to the latest available public health advice.
In an interview on Tuesday night, he said the easing of restrictions will impact on what is possible. For example, he said at present the maximum period a group of people can congregate indoors for is two hours, which would impact on the timing of individual exams. These rules may change over the coming weeks, allowing longer exams to take place.
Over what period of time will the exams take place?
Nothing is official yet, but there have been discussions over holding one major exam a day for public health reasons. The biggest exams - such as English, maths and Irish - could take place towards the start of the exam period to help speed up the marking process. Multiple smaller exams could be held towards the end of the exam window.
READ MORE
This would see the Leaving Cert take place over a longer period and could stretch into early September - the 2nd of September has been mentioned - by the time all the exams are wrapped up.
How certain is it that the Leaving Cert will go ahead?
Nothing is guaranteed. Mr McHugh said holding the exam in late July/August is the Department of Education's "plan A" and all efforts will go towards making this happen.
He acknowledged, however, this was based on the assumption that the public will continue to abide by public health restrictions and that the Covid-19 curve flattens further.
As he said himself, the department is also examining "plans, B, C, D and E . . ." if the exams cannot go ahead.
Why aren't predicted grades being considered?
Some other countries, such as the UK and France, are going down this route. Mr McHugh said it has been ruled out because there was "too much inherent bias" in the system.
“There’s the practicality of teachers’ grading nieces, nephews, sons or daughters, or teachers who are easy markers or hard markers . . . we don’t feel the policy of predicted grading is a fair system,” he said, this week.
Teachers’ unions and school management bodies share this view, though most students - based on an Irish Second Level Students’ Union poll - disagree.
Some education figures, however, maintain it is still possible and there are safeguards to deal with bias.
It has also been pointed out that the State Examinations Commission provides "expected grades" for students who - for reasons outside their control - cannot complete their exams.
What measures are in place to assist students with poor broadband or a lack of devices?
This is a real problem and threatens to widen the academic gap between the haves and have-nots.
On Wednesday, Mr McHugh announced a multi-million euro fund for schools to buy devices for disadvantaged students.
He also said the Government is working with telecoms companies to make a number of relevant websites “zero rated”. This would allow students to access these sites with no data costs.
I've heard that the Junior Cycle is either cancelled or delayed. What's actually happening?
The Junior Cycle as originally planned is , in effect, cancelled. The Department of Education has replaced it with school-based exams which will not be graded by the State Examinations Commission. The tests will be marked by teachers.
Students will not get a traditional Junior Certficate to mark their completion of three years of education.
They will, however, get a school-issued "Junior Cycle Profile of Achievement" which will reflect classroom-based assessments, assessment tasks and project work.
Do schools have to hold these tests in the next school year? Or can they hold their own in May?
Coláiste Bhaile Chlair in Claregalway made headlines when it announced it will proceed with its own tests in May. Presentation Secondary School in Kilkenny has taken a similar decision. It is likely others will follow.
The rules are a bit of a grey area - though it is hard to see how schools can be compelled to provide Junior Cycle tests in the next academic year given that they are no longer State-certified exams.
Mr McHugh has asked schools to hold off announcing their own arrangements and is working on fresh pland and guidelines with school management bodies and other stakeholders.
I'm worried about contracting the virus in an exam hall. What public health measures will be in place?
These issues are still being worked on and will be guided by public health advice. The cancellation of the Junior Cycle exams makes it much easier to hold exams in study halls where desks are at least two metres apart.
It is also likely there will be much greater use of “special centres” - or smaller exams centres, such as classrooms - for those who are immuno-compromised. Authorities insist that all measures will be guided by public health advice.
Will I be able to contact my teachers after the normal term ends in May?
Teachers' unions have been told that the school term ends on Friday, May 29th.
Mr McHugh has asked that everyone at that point take a break for two weeks, but that a “ line of contact” with schools/teachers be available remotely after these two weeks.
This is aimed at maintain a link with Leaving Cert students and helping to iron out issues or queries they may have, rather than teaching normal classes. It is then expected that from mid-July schools will reopen for two weeks.
I've heard the schools will reopen for two weeks in July. When will this happen?
Mr McHugh has requested that schools and teachers provide two weeks of school-based engagement for Leaving Cert students in July, ahead of the start of the exams. This is likely to be from July 13th, though no official date has been announced.
Will it be safe to go back to school?
Social distancing will still be in operation, so it is likely that classes will be split into smaller groups.
All teachers are being requested to return to school, so staff members will be available to support students for study skills, revision or other areas where they require help.
I've heard of some resistance from teachers' unions. Will teachers actually be in school?
There were contrasting signals from the two secondary teachers' unions when the decision to postpone the exams was first announced.
The TUI said it would encourage it members to support students, while the ASTI signalled that the plans could not be enforced. However, they both now seem to be on the same page and say that the needs of students must come first.
There, of course, may be genuine healthy reasons why some teachers will not be available to return in July.
When will we get our Leaving Cert results - and will colleges or further education courses start later as a result?
No official date is available yet, though it is likely that results could be issued in October.
Third level colleges say they will be in a position to admit students in late October or early November. Further education colleges will likely follow suit. Colleges say they will cut short holidays and reading weeks so students finish up as normal in May.


theirishtimes--2020-04-22--Carbon emissions from power generation and industry fell by 8.7 per last year

Carbon emissions from Irish power generation and major industrial operations fell by 8.7 per cent during 2019 , the Environmental Protection Agency has confirmed .
The reduction was in spite of a then booming economy prior to the Covid-19 pandemic hitting the Republic .
The decrease amounts to 1.3 million tonnes of CO2 compared to 2018 .
It is mainly due to a significant drop in power generation emissions by 12.3 per cent as a result of the strong presence of renewable energy ( mainly wind generation ) and less use of fossil fuels , the EPA said .
It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ system ( ETS ) .
Greenhouse gas ( GHG ) emissions from aviation , however , rose by 2.8 per cent to 12.8 million tonnes .
Emissions from agriculture , transport and the heating of buildings are audited separately by the EPA and have been increasing over the past 10 years .
Emissions decreased by 65 per cent from the ESB coal-fired plant at Moneypoint ; “ again mainly due to the availability of renewables ” , the EPA said .
The permanent closure of ESB peat-fired power plants in Shannonbridge in Co @ @ @ @ @ @ @ year will see further reductions in power sector emissions .
Reduced demand in electricity and horticulture markets due to Covid-19 led to Bord na Móna laying off 230 employees temporarily from its energy business unit this week .
Cement industries recorded a 2 per cent decrease ; the dairy industry showed a 3 per cent decrease and emissions from pharmachem industries decreased by 0.4 per cent .
EPA senior manager Dr Maria Martin , said : “ This is the third year in a row we have seen a fall in GHG emissions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ power generation and industry .
This reflects a positive move to lower use of fossil fuels in electricity generation and an increase in renewables.
” Reductions were modest in other sectors and attributable to a small number of players , with an increase from aviation , she said .
“ We need to see consistent reductions in emissions across all sectors to reach our goal of a low-carbon economy.
” Minister for Climate Action and Environment Richard Bruton welcomed the 8.7 per cent reduction .
“ Emissions from our largest energy users have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of CO2 in 2008 , to 14.1 tonnes last year .
This has been largely due to investment in our renewable energy capacity , which today stands at around 33 per cent of all electricity generation .
Through the [ Government ’ s ] climate action plan , we have committed to increasing this to 70 per cent by 2030.
” The results show it was possible to break the link between economic progress and emissions , he believed .
“ Last year , the economy grew by 6 per cent but our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 8.7 per cent .
It is welcome progress , but we must do more.
” As Ireland considered its future recovery , Mr Bruton said “ we must ensure climate resilience is built in and that we leverage Ireland ’ s natural assets and invest in our renewable capacity , particularly offshore wind ” .
The plan is designed to reduce emissions by 35 per cent by 2030 , while the Government has endorsed the European Green Deal , which will see the EU raise its ambition to 50-55 per cent .
This @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Mr Bruton accepted , “ and inclusion of new ambition and new actions ” backed by rigorous implementation and reporting .

The EPA said this is the third year in a row we have seen a fall in greenhouse gas emissions from participants in the emissions trading system, mainly power generation and industry.
Carbon emissions from Irish power generation and major industrial operations fell by 8.7 per cent during 2019, the Environmental Protection Agency has confirmed. The reduction was in spite of a then booming economy prior to the Covid-19 pandemic hitting the Republic.
The decrease amounts to 1.3 million tonnes of CO2 compared to 2018. It is mainly due to a significant drop in power generation emissions by 12.3 per cent as a result of the strong presence of renewable energy (mainly wind generation) and less use of fossil fuels, the EPA said. It monitors emissions under the EU emissions trading system (ETS).
Greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from aviation, however, rose by 2.8 per cent to 12.8 million tonnes. Emissions from agriculture, transport and the heating of buildings are audited separately by the EPA and have been increasing over the past 10 years.
Emissions decreased by 65 per cent from the ESB coal-fired plant at Moneypoint; "again mainly due to the availability of renewables", the EPA said.
READ MORE
The permanent closure of ESB peat-fired power plants in Shannonbridge in Co Offaly and Lanesboro in Co Longford this year will see further reductions in power sector emissions. Reduced demand in electricity and horticulture markets due to Covid-19 led to Bord na Móna laying off 230 employees temporarily from its energy business unit this week.
Cement industries recorded a 2 per cent decrease; the dairy industry showed a 3 per cent decrease and emissions from pharmachem industries decreased by 0.4 per cent.
EPA senior manager Dr Maria Martin, said: "This is the third year in a row we have seen a fall in GHG emissions from participants in the ETS, mainly power generation and industry. This reflects a positive move to lower use of fossil fuels in electricity generation and an increase in renewables."
Reductions were modest in other sectors and attributable to a small number of players, with an increase from aviation, she said. “We need to see consistent reductions in emissions across all sectors to reach our goal of a low-carbon economy.”
Minister for Climate Action and Environment Richard Bruton welcomed the 8.7 per cent reduction.
“Emissions from our largest energy users have fallen from a high of 20.3 tonnes of CO2 in 2008, to 14.1 tonnes last year. This has been largely due to investment in our renewable energy capacity, which today stands at around 33 per cent of all electricity generation. Through the [Government’s ]climate action plan, we have committed to increasing this to 70 per cent by 2030.”
The results show it was possible to break the link between economic progress and emissions, he believed. “Last year, the economy grew by 6 per cent but our electricity and major industrial emissions fell by 8.7 per cent. It is welcome progress, but we must do more.”
As Ireland considered its future recovery, Mr Bruton said "we must ensure climate resilience is built in and that we leverage Ireland's natural assets and invest in our renewable capacity, particularly offshore wind".
The plan is designed to reduce emissions by 35 per cent by 2030, while the Government has endorsed the European Green Deal, which will see the EU raise its ambition to 50-55 per cent. This will require further development of the plan, Mr Bruton accepted, “and inclusion of new ambition and new actions” backed by rigorous implementation and reporting.


theirishtimes--2020-04-22--High Court orders detention of brain-injured woman in nursing home

A brain-injured woman is to be detained in a nursing home by High Court order because of concerns about the quality of care in her own home and concerns that her husband may seek to have her discharged back there once Covid-19 restrictions are lifted .
There has been a coronavirus outbreak in the nursing home and one Covid-19 related death but the woman ’ s court-appointed guardian had said she is isolated in her own room and he considered the situation was being appropriately managed , the court was told .
The woman , aged in her 60s , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ involving a high level of care needs , Paul Brady BL , for the HSE , told Mr Justice Anthony Barr on Wednesday .
She had been cared for at home by her husband until early last February but concerns about the level of care being provided to her dated back some two years .
Those concerns included that her husband had cancelled evening visits by home carers and appeared to have gone out in the evenings , leaving the woman in her room for long periods , resulting in heavily soiled pads @ @ @ @ @ @ @ included that the husband had refused to co-operate with recommendations as to her care , or to have her assessed for long-term care , and that he may be developing Alzheimer ’ s disease .
The concerns lead to the woman being moved , by court order , to the nursing home last month from a hospital where she was treated for an infection , counsel said .
While in hospital , she had said she wanted to go home but she appears to have settled since into the nursing home , he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the context of an inquiry as to whether the woman should be made a ward of court , permitting her detention in the nursing home pending the wardship inquiry or further review in July .
Two medical reports concerning the woman ’ s capacity to make decisions had been provided for the inquiry , he said .
The woman ’ s court-appointed guardian was not in a position to attend this court hearing but had provided a report supporting the HSE ’ s application .
While her husband appears happy for her @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the time being , there is concern he may try to take her home once the Covid-19 restrictions are removed , and the professionals involved in her care believe that is not in her best interests , Mr Brady said .
Her GP had reported her condition has been satisfactory since she went to the nursing home .
Mr Justice Barr said two things were very clear from the most recent report from a court-appointed independent medical visitor who assessed the woman .
These were that the woman lacks capacity at this time @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and her husband may seek her discharge back home , which could be very much against her best interests in terms of her health , welfare and maintenance , he said .
On foot of the evidence , he would make the orders sought , he said .
If the Covid-19 situation worsens in the nursing home , a home return for the woman “ may be the lesser of two evils ” , the judge added .
He granted liberty to apply if evidence indicated “ extreme circumstances ” which made home @ @ @ @ @ @ @ For now , he was satisfied , on the evidence , her health is best served by leaving her where she is , he said .

A brain-injured woman is to be detained in a nursing home by High Court order because of concerns about the quality of care in her own home and concerns that her husband may seek to have her discharged back there once Covid-19 restrictions are lifted.
There has been a coronavirus outbreak in the nursing home and one Covid-19 related death but the woman’s court-appointed guardian had said she is isolated in her own room and he considered the situation was being appropriately managed, the court was told.
The woman, aged in her 60s, had organic brain injury and other conditions involving a high level of care needs, Paul Brady BL, for the HSE, told Mr Justice Anthony Barr on Wednesday.
She had been cared for at home by her husband until early last February but concerns about the level of care being provided to her dated back some two years.
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Those concerns included that her husband had cancelled evening visits by home carers and appeared to have gone out in the evenings, leaving the woman in her room for long periods, resulting in heavily soiled pads, Mr Brady outlined.
Other concerns included that the husband had refused to co-operate with recommendations as to her care, or to have her assessed for long-term care, and that he may be developing Alzheimer’s disease.
The concerns lead to the woman being moved, by court order, to the nursing home last month from a hospital where she was treated for an infection, counsel said. While in hospital, she had said she wanted to go home but she appears to have settled since into the nursing home, he added.
Mr Brady sought orders, in the context of an inquiry as to whether the woman should be made a ward of court, permitting her detention in the nursing home pending the wardship inquiry or further review in July.
Two medical reports concerning the woman’s capacity to make decisions had been provided for the inquiry, he said.
The woman’s court-appointed guardian was not in a position to attend this court hearing but had provided a report supporting the HSE’s application.
While her husband appears happy for her to stay in the nursing home for the time being, there is concern he may try to take her home once the Covid-19 restrictions are removed, and the professionals involved in her care believe that is not in her best interests, Mr Brady said. Her GP had reported her condition has been satisfactory since she went to the nursing home.
Mr Justice Barr said two things were very clear from the most recent report from a court-appointed independent medical visitor who assessed the woman.
These were that the woman lacks capacity at this time to make decisions concerning her own welfare and her husband may seek her discharge back home, which could be very much against her best interests in terms of her health, welfare and maintenance, he said.
On foot of the evidence, he would make the orders sought, he said.
If the Covid-19 situation worsens in the nursing home, a home return for the woman “may be the lesser of two evils”, the judge added. He granted liberty to apply if evidence indicated “extreme circumstances” which made home the “least worst” option.
For now, he was satisfied, on the evidence, her health is best served by leaving her where she is, he said.


theirishtimes--2020-04-22--Forest fire which caused €500,000 worth of damage in Leitrim was ‘started deliberately’

Five hundred acres of forest in Co Leitrim have been destroyed in a fire that Coillte believe was the result of arson .
It took five fire crews and a helicopter two days to put out the fire in a forest at Dun Mountain in Aughnasheelin near Ballinamore .
The national forestry agency estimates that the cost of putting out the fire and replanting the crop will be in the region of at least €500,000 .
Gardaí are now examining satellite imagery which show that the fire , which started in the centre of the wood and spread to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on Monday .
Coillte national estates risks manager Mick Power said it may be connected to the dumping of rubbish in the centre of the wood .
“ The exact area of combustion corresponds to a find we had in the middle of the plantation which was rubbish that was dumped , ” he explained .
He said another possibility is that the arson attack is related to opponents of the large-scale plantation of Sitka spruce in the county .
Many locals say there is too much forestry going on in Leitrim at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wrong type and that it brings no economic benefit to locals .
The forest near Ballinamore is old , but the area burned was a crop of Sitka spruce planted seven years ago .
“ It is something that we will explore .
We will let the gardaí get on with their investigation .
I would be surprised if this was the case , ” Mr Power said .
He ruled out the possibility that it was related to the illegal burning of vegetation which caused gorse fires in the Wicklow mountains and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Co Carlow .
It is illegal to burn growing vegetation on uncultivated land between March 1st and August 31st .
Mr Power warned that conditions are “ perfect ” at present for forest fires after a long-dry spell .
It is expected to be warm and sunny over the coming days and no rain is forecast .
A stiff easterly breeze could also cause fires to spread faster .
The growth in upland areas has not started yet .
Last year ’ s growth that has died back is “ tinder-dry ” at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cause a huge conflagration if ignited .
The Department of Agriculture , Food and Marine has issued a national high fire risk rating this week for all areas where hazardous fuels , such as dead grasses , shrub , heather and gorse , exist .
This is the highest area of alert .
Mr Power said forest car parks are shut because of Covid-19 but the forests are open to the public .
He asked people not to light fires in or near forests at present and to behave responsibly if they are @ @ @ @ @ @

It took five fire crews and a helicopter two days to put out the fire in a forest at Dun Mountain in Aughnasheelin near Ballinamore. Photograph: Chris Shield/Coillte Fire Fighting Team
Five hundred acres of forest in Co Leitrim have been destroyed in a fire that Coillte believe was the result of arson.
It took five fire crews and a helicopter two days to put out the fire in a forest at Dun Mountain in Aughnasheelin near Ballinamore.
The national forestry agency estimates that the cost of putting out the fire and replanting the crop will be in the region of at least €500,000.
It took five fire crews and a helicopter two days to put out the fire in a forest at Dun Mountain in Aughnasheelin near Ballinamore. Photograph: Chris Shield, Member/Coillte Fire Fighting Team
Gardaí are now examining satellite imagery which show that the fire, which started in the centre of the wood and spread to the periphery, was started deliberately at 11.44am on Monday.
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Coillte national estates risks manager Mick Power said it may be connected to the dumping of rubbish in the centre of the wood.
“The exact area of combustion corresponds to a find we had in the middle of the plantation which was rubbish that was dumped,” he explained.
He said another possibility is that the arson attack is related to opponents of the large-scale plantation of Sitka spruce in the county.
Many locals say there is too much forestry going on in Leitrim at present, the trees planted are the wrong type and that it brings no economic benefit to locals.
The forest near Ballinamore is old, but the area burned was a crop of Sitka spruce planted seven years ago.
“It is something that we will explore. We will let the gardaí get on with their investigation. I would be surprised if this was the case,” Mr Power said.
He ruled out the possibility that it was related to the illegal burning of vegetation which caused gorse fires in the Wicklow mountains and on the slopes of Mount Leinster in Co Carlow.
It is illegal to burn growing vegetation on uncultivated land between March 1st and August 31st.
Mr Power warned that conditions are “perfect” at present for forest fires after a long-dry spell. It is expected to be warm and sunny over the coming days and no rain is forecast. A stiff easterly breeze could also cause fires to spread faster.
The growth in upland areas has not started yet. Last year’s growth that has died back is “tinder-dry” at present, he warned, and could cause a huge conflagration if ignited.
The Department of Agriculture, Food and Marine has issued a national high fire risk rating this week for all areas where hazardous fuels, such as dead grasses, shrub, heather and gorse, exist.
This is the highest area of alert. Mr Power said forest car parks are shut because of Covid-19 but the forests are open to the public.
He asked people not to light fires in or near forests at present and to behave responsibly if they are in the vicinity of them.


theirishtimes--2020-04-23--Satellites and drones to be used to detect and deter gorse fire starters

Satellite images , drone footage and on the ground patrols are to be used to detect those who set gorse and scrub fires over the coming days .
As Dublin Firebrigade brought a major gorse fire under control on Howth Head on Wednesday night - one of a number of widespread fires that have broken out across the country in recent days – authorities appealed to farmers not to clear land by burning .
Conditions for the spread of fires in uplands areas , which break out annually in March and April are said to be “ perfect ” for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
It is expected to be cloudy but dry over the coming days and little rain is forecast .
Winds could also cause fires to spread faster .
Minister for Agriculture Michael Creed reminded people they were required to exercise within two kilometres of their home .
An Orange fire risk warning issued by his department , based on weather conditions and the dry nature of gorse and undergrowth on uplands , is to remain in place until Friday at the least .
Mr Creed warned satellite imagery was being “ carefully monitored @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ an act of gross disregard for your community ” to set fires and also warned that burnt land is not eligible for payment under the Basic Payment Scheme and other area-based schemes and may even negate payments on neighbouring farms .
He added that when the coronavirus restrictions are eased lands identified by satellite images and drone footage would be inspected .
Drones are also being used routinely by Coillte the State forestry company , the National Parks and Wildlife Service , local authorities and Pure , an environmental project in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Party TD Steven Matthews said recent fires in the Wicklow Mountains appeared to be “ planned and deliberate.
” He warned the fires caused huge habitat destruction and loss of biodiversity.
” He added “ we see this every year as agricultural land is burned to clear gorse and scrub ” .
While Mr Matthews called for more supports for farmers to manage land , the party ’ s spokeswoman on forestry , Senator Pippa Hackett , said the department of Agriculture was simply making “ empty threats ” .
“ These illegal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ no chance of any fines or penalties , and so it continues , year in , year out .
Our natural heritage deserves so much better ” .
Fire crews aided by helicopters have been battling the fires for the last week in an area of Wicklow between Laragh/Glendalough and Blessington Lakes .
Wicklow chief fire officer Aidan Dempsey said many people lit multiple fires in the area in adjacent locations to ensure that the fire was extensive and spread .
“ It is frustrating to have to do this while there is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ great sacrifices around the country , ” he said .
Hundreds of acres of land across the Blackstairs on the Wexford/Carlow boarder have also been extensively damaged by gorse fires .
In Kerry fire fighters asked landowners not to start any gorse fires as they are diverting firefighters away from house fires , car crashes and other life threatening emergencies during the coronavirus pandemic .
Kerry ’ s chief fire officer Andrew Macilwraith said the service and its 100-plus firefighters were already under strain from provisions linked to the pandemic .
In Leitrim @ @ @ @ @ @ @ €500,000 .

Firefighters tackle a gorse wildfire in Howth on Wednesday night - an orange fire risk warning has been issed. Photograph: Dublin Fire Brigade/Twitter
Satellite images, drone footage and on the ground patrols are to be used to detect those who set gorse and scrub fires over the coming days.
As Dublin Firebrigade brought a major gorse fire under control on Howth Head on Wednesday night - one of a number of widespread fires that have broken out across the country in recent days – authorities appealed to farmers not to clear land by burning.
Conditions for the spread of fires in uplands areas, which break out annually in March and April are said to be “perfect” for forest fires after a long dry spell. It is expected to be cloudy but dry over the coming days and little rain is forecast. Winds could also cause fires to spread faster.
Minister for Agriculture Michael Creed reminded people they were required to exercise within two kilometres of their home. An Orange fire risk warning issued by his department, based on weather conditions and the dry nature of gorse and undergrowth on uplands, is to remain in place until Friday at the least.
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Mr Creed warned satellite imagery was being “carefully monitored”. He said it would be “an act of gross disregard for your community” to set fires and also warned that burnt land is not eligible for payment under the Basic Payment Scheme and other area-based schemes and may even negate payments on neighbouring farms.
He added that when the coronavirus restrictions are eased lands identified by satellite images and drone footage would be inspected.
Drones are also being used routinely by Coillte the State forestry company, the National Parks and Wildlife Service, local authorities and Pure, an environmental project in the Dublin and Wicklow mountains.
Firefighters tackle a gorse wildfire in Howth on Wednesday night. Photograph: Dublin Fire Brigade/Twitter
Wicklow Green Party TD Steven Matthews said recent fires in the Wicklow Mountains appeared to be “planned and deliberate.” He warned the fires caused huge habitat destruction and loss of biodiversity.” He added “we see this every year as agricultural land is burned to clear gorse and scrub”.
While Mr Matthews called for more supports for farmers to manage land, the party’s spokeswoman on forestry, Senator Pippa Hackett ,said the department of Agriculture was simply making “empty threats”.
“These illegal burners know that there is little or no chance of any fines or penalties, and so it continues, year in, year out. Our natural heritage deserves so much better”.
Fire crews aided by helicopters have been battling the fires for the last week in an area of Wicklow between Laragh/Glendalough and Blessington Lakes.
Wicklow chief fire officer Aidan Dempsey said many people lit multiple fires in the area in adjacent locations to ensure that the fire was extensive and spread.
“It is frustrating to have to do this while there is a pandemic on and people are making great sacrifices around the country,” he said.
Hundreds of acres of land across the Blackstairs on the Wexford/Carlow boarder have also been extensively damaged by gorse fires.
In Kerry fire fighters asked landowners not to start any gorse fires as they are diverting firefighters away from house fires, car crashes and other life threatening emergencies during the coronavirus pandemic.
Kerry’s chief fire officer Andrew Macilwraith said the service and its 100-plus firefighters were already under strain from provisions linked to the pandemic.
In Leitrim fire damage to forestry was estimated at €500,000.


theirishtimes--2020-04-23--National Reptile Zoo appeals for help as Covid-19 wipes income

The National Reptile Zoo in Co Kilkenny has been in receipt of no income for more than a month due to the Covid-19 pandemic and is appealing to the public for donations to ensure the animals can be properly cared for .
James Hennessy , owner of the zoo , said there are more than 200 animals at the facility , which is the only reptile zoo in the country .
It houses animals such as alligators , pythons , cobras , geckos , tarantulas and poison dart frogs .
“ On a normal day , we ’ d have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ get busier in the season we get about six more staff , ” said Mr Hennessy .
“ Those staff do everything from feeding animals , changing water , checking heating systems , logging data .
“ We do a lot of conservation work as well , so we do work abroad .
We have an outreach programme where we go to schools and colleges and various corporate events as well to spread the word about conservation so quite a lot of work goes into the day to day running of the place @ @ @ @ @ @ @ right road , but unfortunately with the way things have gone now , things have changed .
On March 15th we had to shut the doors to the public .
“ People coming in through our doors were paying admission , and that was our only source of income .
That and us going to schools and stuff , which also had to stop , so we have had zero income from March 15th.
” Mr Hennessy said the zoo has been relying on donations from the pubic since then in order to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the building still has to operate , ” he said .
“ So , up to today , we ’ ve been relying on people ’ s donations like people buying adoptions , pre-selling tickets for the future .
People have been dropping in food to us like greens and vegetables and fruits .
“ That ’ s been brilliant but there ’ s not quite enough to keep us going so we ’ ve had to set up a Go Fund Me page to try and get us that little bit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ give all the animals everything that they need.
” The page can be located here .

James Hennessy, owner of the National Reptile Zoo in Kilkenny which has been closed to visitors since March 15th, describes how life must go on for the facility's inhabitants despite coronavirus. Video: John Cassidy
The National Reptile Zoo in Co Kilkenny has been in receipt of no income for more than a month due to the Covid-19 pandemic and is appealing to the public for donations to ensure the animals can be properly cared for.
James Hennessy, owner of the zoo, said there are more than 200 animals at the facility, which is the only reptile zoo in the country. It houses animals such as alligators, pythons, cobras, geckos, tarantulas and poison dart frogs.
“On a normal day, we’d have seven full time staff and when we get busier in the season we get about six more staff,” said Mr Hennessy. “Those staff do everything from feeding animals, changing water, checking heating systems, logging data.
“We do a lot of conservation work as well, so we do work abroad. We have an outreach programme where we go to schools and colleges and various corporate events as well to spread the word about conservation so quite a lot of work goes into the day to day running of the place.
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“We were headed down the right road, but unfortunately with the way things have gone now, things have changed. On March 15th we had to shut the doors to the public.
“People coming in through our doors were paying admission, and that was our only source of income. That and us going to schools and stuff, which also had to stop, so we have had zero income from March 15th.”
Mr Hennessy said the zoo has been relying on donations from the pubic since then in order to keep things running.
“Unfortunately everything in the building still has to operate,” he said. “So, up to today, we’ve been relying on people’s donations like people buying adoptions, pre-selling tickets for the future. People have been dropping in food to us like greens and vegetables and fruits.
“That’s been brilliant but there’s not quite enough to keep us going so we’ve had to set up a Go Fund Me page to try and get us that little bit further just to make sure we can give all the animals everything that they need.”
The page can be located here.