Quantcast
Channel: News Archives - Limerick Post Newspaper
Viewing all 19891 articles
Browse latest View live

A Dog is not just for Christmas but sadly for some it is

$
0
0

Dogs Trust, Irelands largest dog welfare charity, continues to see a large volume of people looking to surrender their dog after Christmas, as the reality of dog ownership and the long-term commitment involved, begins to set in for unprepared families.

Between 27th December 2019 and 31st January 2020, the charity recorded an alarming 185 calls and 50 emails from members of public trying to relinquish their dog.

The most common reason given was that ‘the dog was exhibiting unwanted behaviour’. This could be attributed to a lack of socialisation and training which is critical in those first few months to ensure they become a well-rounded dog.

Dogs Trust Ireland received 235 requests from people looking to surrender their dog in the month after Christmas. Pictured is Bibi who was born in their whelping wing after their mum ‘Banana’ gave birth to nine puppies. 18/03/2020 Photograph: © Fran Veale

Every year, Dogs Trust urges the public to wait until after Christmas to welcome a dog, especially a puppy, into their home. Although many people often have good intentions, Christmas is simply too busy a time to provide the basic training and positive socialisation experiences a puppy or any dog entering a new home needs.

An upsetting case arriving in January at Dogs Trust Rehoming Centre in Finglas was a heavily pregnant Lurcher ‘Banana’ who was brought to the Charity just in time to give birth to nine puppies.

Karla Dunne, Head of Operations at Dogs Trust Ireland said; “January is one of the busiest months for us and sadly this year is no different. Although we are pleased to see a reduction in surrender requests after Christmas this year, we are seeing a lot of vulnerable dogs coming through our doors, which is so incredibly heart-breaking as many of the dogs we have taken in have been pregnant.

“Thankfully we have a purpose built ‘Mutt-ernity Wing’ to care for pregnant dogs and give them a safe space to give birth. Banana is just one of the pregnant mums who we have taken in this year, but with every pregnant dog, comes a litter of puppies born who will need love, warmth, round the clock care and when old enough, a Forever Home” she said. 

Becky Bristow, Executive Director at Dogs Trust Ireland added; “We are pleased that our annual campaigns, reminding people that “A dog is for life, not just for Christmas®”, are resonating with the public as we saw a 36% reduction in the number of people looking to surrender their dog to us after Christmas compared to last year. We hope that our educational messaging is having a positive impact on the number of dogs being bought in haste for Christmas.


Becky continues: “Although the numbers are decreasing, we are still concerned to be receiving over 6 surrender requests each day which is a highly alarming number!

“This shows that many people are still not fully considering all aspects of dog ownership including the essential socialisation and training needs, the cost involved and life-long commitment of dog ownership.

“We are pleading with the public to please try to anticipate any major lifestyle changes such as an upcoming move, a new baby and consider how a dog may impact this before bringing one into your home.” she added. 

Dogs Trust recognises that there are genuine cases of people needing to rehome their dogs, so they have published some helpful advice about responsibly rehoming a dog. For more information, please visit www.dogstrust.ie/help-advice/advice-for-owners/help-i-can-t-look-after-my-dog

In response to last week’s Government announcement, the charity has made the decision to close their Dublin Rehoming Centre to the general public until further notice. This will continue to be monitored in line with governmental advice.

This decision was made in order to protect the best interests of the rehoming team, who are keeping the dogs happy and healthy.

Dogs Trust has said that the welfare and safety of their staff, the dogs and the most vulnerable members of society are of paramount importance, so they will be introducing a series of preventative measures to ensure they protect people as much as possible and adhere to Government guidelines.

Further information on how Dogs Trust are responding to Covid-19 can be found online. 

If you are interested in adopting a dog from Dogs Trust, the Charity is advising people to email their Rehoming Team, rather than coming to the centre, via reception@dogstrust.ie and they will be able to send you a rehoming questionnaire to start the process of adoption!

In this unprecedented time of need, Dogs Trust need your support more than ever to help care for the dogs in their centre so the charity are asking the public to support their work by sponsoring a dog via: https://www.dogstrust.ie/sponsor/ .

For all other queries, concerns, or an existing appointment, please call 01 8791 000 or email enquiries@dogstrust.ie.

The post A Dog is not just for Christmas but sadly for some it is appeared first on Limerick Post Newspaper.


Leaving Cert and Junior Cert orals and practical exams cancelled

Foul play not suspected after extensive damage caused to building in heart of Limerick’s Georgian Quarter

$
0
0

GARDAÍ investigating the cause of a fire in Limerick city, in which extensive damage was caused to a five-storey building in the heart of the city’s Georgian Quarter, said they do not suspect foul play.

Firefighters attached to Limerick City and County Fire and Rescue Service were alerted to the blaze around 7am this morning.

There were no reports of injuries, however, “extensive damage” was caused to the interior, said a reliable source.

The building, located at Barrington Street, is used for office space by a number of local businesses.

Seven units from the city’s fire service supported by two units from Shannon Fire Service, Co Clare, fought the fire for nine hours.

Officials from Limerick City and County Council, gardai, and fire personnel performed safety checks of the building and surrounding area.

Several floors inside the building sustained smoke damage.

It was not known if there was anyone in the building at the time the fire started, however, a reliable source said that there was no evacuations.

Substantial plumes of smoke could be seen billowing out of the building for serval hours.

Limerick-based Former Secretary-General at the Department of Finance, John Moran, tweeted a number of aerial video clips and photographs of firefighters when describing their “bravery”.

“Hopefully no one hurt. Please continue to be vigilant in all matters,” Mr Moran tweeted.

A garda spokesman said: “Gardaí were alerted to fire at a business premises on Barrington Street, Limerick city at approximately 7.00 am on 19th March 2020.”

“Gardaí and Emergency services attended the scene.”

“Gardaí are satisfied there are no signs of foul play.”

The spokesman said there were “no injured parties”.

“Barrington Street remains partially closed at this time,” they added, at 5.38pm.

The post Foul play not suspected after extensive damage caused to building in heart of Limerick’s Georgian Quarter appeared first on Limerick Post Newspaper.

Limerick TD calls for ‘flexibility and discretion’ in social welfare system for duration of COVID-19 pandemic

$
0
0

FIANNA Fáil Spokesperson on Employment Affairs and Social Protection Willie O’Dea TD says there needs to be flexibility in the social welfare system for the duration of the COVID-19 (coronavirus) pandemic.

Deputy O’Dea said he and his colleagues have been receiving a number of calls regarding access and entitlements to social welfare as a result of disruptions caused by the coronavirus outbreak.

“I acknowledge that the Department is doing the best it can in these very difficult circumstances,” he said, “but it is essential that where possible, flexibility and discretion are shown.”

The Limerick City TD said as an example, pensioners should be able to receive a lump sum of three or four weeks of their state pension “to minimise social interactions”.

He said, “Furthermore, pregnant women who have become unemployed as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic should not see their PRSI contributions and entitlement to maternity benefit affected. We also need a greater degree of clarity regarding secondary benefits during this period.

“Over the coming weeks, there is likely to be even greater demands on the social welfare system. However, we must recognise that in such unique circumstances a one-size-fits-all approach to the application of social welfare will not necessarily work and I would, therefore, urge the government to build flexibility and discretion into the system to assist people during these very difficult times”.

The post Limerick TD calls for ‘flexibility and discretion’ in social welfare system for duration of COVID-19 pandemic appeared first on Limerick Post Newspaper.

World Vision Ireland Extends Essay Deadline for Children at Home During COVID-19 shutdown

$
0
0

World Vision Ireland has extended the deadline for their Climate Change Essay Competition so that children can write essays in their homes, while schools are closed during the COVID-19 shutdown.

The charity is calling on children across the country to put pen to paper and enter their Climate Change Essay Competition, which will be judged by Ryan Tubridy.

The winner will get the chance to meet Ryan Tubridy in the RTE studios (when schools and businesses reopen) and will also win a €500 Smyths voucher.

World Vision Ireland’s Climate Change essay competition 2020 is opened until the 30th April for children between the ages of 8 and 18.

The entries will be narrowed down to the final 10, and celebrity judge Ryan Tubridy will choose the winning essay.

“We decided to extend the deadline for this competition to accommodate parents who have little ones at home during the COVID-19 shutdown.” Fiona O’Malley, Director of Communications at World Vision Ireland, said.

“Climate change is a great topic to explore with children while they’re spending time at home. We don’t want to cause anxiety, but rather set a positive example of what daily steps we can take to live more sustainably.

“Our children will face the impacts of climate change more than any previous generation. Today’s children are tomorrow’s business leaders, decision makers and politicians.

“They will be the ones shaping the future of the country, our economy, and our transport systems; so, it’s important that they are equipped with the knowledge of the impact of global warming, and how to tackle it.

“We believe this essay competition is a great way to start the climate change conversations in homes across the country, in a positive and creative way.” she explained.

Children across the country are encouraged to put pen to paper and write an essay on the theme of ‘How We Can Save Our Planet’ in 800 words or less and send it, with the €2 per entry (per child) fee to: Essay Competition, World Vision Ireland, Rathmines, Dublin 6, by the deadline of the 30th April.

Further information on the competition can be found on https://www.worldvision.ie/essay-competition

The post World Vision Ireland Extends Essay Deadline for Children at Home During COVID-19 shutdown appeared first on Limerick Post Newspaper.

Comment: NAPD on the cancellation of the Junior and Leaving Certificate Oral and Practical Exams

$
0
0
THE National Association of Principals and Deputy Principals (NAPD) welcomes the announcement from Minister for Education and Skills, Joe McHugh TD, that oral and practical examinations for this year’s Junior and Leaving Certificate are to be cancelled, with all students receiving full marks.
Speaking today, NAPD Director Clive Byrne said: “Today’s announcement will come as a relief to students and offers them clarity for the weeks ahead. Exam time is hugely stressful for students under normal circumstances, never mind the situation we find ourselves in at present.
“The resilience shown by students, particularly those sitting exams this year, has been commendable in recent weeks. We urge them to continue working towards their written exams in June, and to continue with the work assigned by teachers.
“On behalf of the NAPD, I want to emphasise that the current group of sixth years will not be disadvantaged and that our examination system will do everything to enable them to proceed to the world of work, further education or higher education.
“We recognise that this is an unpredictable situation, and we don’t yet know when schools will be in a position to re-open.
“We understand that the State Examinations Commission is in discussions with the Department of Education regarding contingency planning for the full exams in June and these plans will be communicated in due course.”

The post Comment: NAPD on the cancellation of the Junior and Leaving Certificate Oral and Practical Exams appeared first on Limerick Post Newspaper.

Ireland’s Young Filmmaker of the Year Awards 2020 goes digital

$
0
0

IRELAND’S Young Filmmaker of the Year Awards 2020 looks to bring young filmmakers together online by using a “virtual solution” following the earlier cancellation due to the COVID-19 (coronavirus) outbreak.

With events and festivals forced to cancel nationwide, Jayne Foley, Fresh Film and Ireland’s Young Filmmaker of the Year Awards founder announced the Fresh Film Festival team had “devised a virtual solution”.

Although the festival won’t see the filmmakers together in one place Ms Foley said, “we can bring them together online. In the spirit of Fresh we want our online activities to connect, inspire and support young filmmakers.”

Films shortlisted for the final were due be screened at Fresh International Film Festival 2020 in Limerick from March 23 to 28 but now because of the Coronavirus outbreak the films of the Festival and Ireland’s Young Filmmaker of the Year Awards have been postponed with screenings and workshops now taking place online.

The virtual plan for Fresh International Film Festival 2020 includes:

– Live chats on Facebook and Instagram with award-winning young filmmakers

– Screening the Junior finalists and some International films on Wednesday, March 25 On YouTube

– Screening the Senior finalists films on Thursday, March 26 on YouTube

– ‘How to’ videos made by young filmmakers sharing their own skills to inspire new young filmmakers via YouTube and social media.

A time to get creative

Fresh Film are asking young filmmakers to create short ‘How To’ videos about filmmaking. They should be energetic engaging and fun – no swearing please, it can be about anything that you can think of, but here are some ideas to get you started:

Script: Finding Ideas, idea development, scripting, characters.

Pre-Production: Story Boarding, finding actors, shotlists.

The Shoot: Working with actors, managing a set, recording sound, framing the shot, camera techniques, planning the documentary, costumes.

Post-Production: Editing for an audience, SFX.

Tools: Building your own, essential lenses, equipment for the no budget filmmaker, how to animate, gimbals.

Now in its 24th year, Fresh International Film Festival encourages young people from Ireland and overseas, aged 7 to 18 years, to create, exhibit and share films. The festival provides an opportunity for these young filmmakers to have their work seen on a cinema screen for the first time and to compete for the title of Ireland’s Young Filmmaker of the Year. All films submitted are also considered for a range of Specialist Awards including the Radharc Trust Award (documentary), the Cartoon Saloon Animation Award, the RTE 60 Second Short Film Award and the RTE Factual Award, in addition to the International and Audience awards.

Fresh International Film Festival encourages young people to make films by hosting an annual international film festival for young people, presenting Ireland’s Young Filmmaker of the Year Awards, acting as an advocate for young filmmakers and promoting their work worldwide.  Fresh Film runs a number of initiatives throughout the year, including a Hothouse programme designed to bring young people of different ages and diverse backgrounds together to share their film experiences and create new collaborative work, as well as distributing Irish films made by young people to festivals all over the world.  The Arts Council of Ireland, Limerick City and County Council and RTE Supporting the Arts support the Fresh International Film Festival.

Keep an eye on the Fresh Film website and social media channels for updates.

Further details are available from www.freshfilmfestival.com.

The post Ireland’s Young Filmmaker of the Year Awards 2020 goes digital appeared first on Limerick Post Newspaper.

Full engagement with EU Commission vital for farm scheme flexibility in light of Covid-19

$
0
0

A FIANNA Fáil Limerick TD has said it is vital that the Department of Agriculture has full engagement with the European Commission for farm scheme flexibility in light of Covid-19 (coronavirus)

Limerick County representative, Deputy Niall Collins commended the “trojan national effort by citizens and State authorities” in efforts to stop the spread of the coronavirus.

The Fianna Fáil TD noted farmers and agri-food industry has “not been found wanting”, ensuring their products are still available on supermarket shelves.

He said, “Farmers are taking all necessary precautions and following the expert guidance from the HSE.

“Given the centrality of maintaining food security and supply lines during the current crisis, I believe that it is incumbent on the Department to engage with the EU Commission and ensure flexibility in the operation of farm schemes if required.

“All 2020 scheme payment deadlines must also be maintained and communication channels with the Commission kept open on issues such as inspections.

In order to comply with social-distancing practices, the Fianna Fáil TD said he would “echo the calls of ICOS for stocking rules under the Areas of Natural Constraint (ANC) scheme to be relaxed so that all farmers do not have to go to marts at this time”.

“Such a move would enable farmers a longer period of time from which to purchase animals from marts, which will be required in cases to meet stocking density rules under the scheme.

“This is a challenging time for farmers, and we need to do everything to support them, while adhering to HSE guidance”, concluded Deputy Collins.

The post Full engagement with EU Commission vital for farm scheme flexibility in light of Covid-19 appeared first on Limerick Post Newspaper.


WATCH: Cian Lynch Issues Plea For Everyone to Help Fight Corona Virus

$
0
0

Cian Lynch has published a video on Twitter asking the public to play their part by adhering to the HSE guidelines and work together to help protect everyone in their community from the Corona virus.

The post WATCH: Cian Lynch Issues Plea For Everyone to Help Fight Corona Virus appeared first on Sporting Limerick.

The post WATCH: Cian Lynch Issues Plea For Everyone to Help Fight Corona Virus appeared first on Limerick Post Newspaper.

AsIAm and SuperValu Launch ‘COVID-19 and Change’ Seminar Online for Autism Community

$
0
0

AsIAm, Ireland’s national autism advocacy charity, have launched their first online seminar ‘COVID-19 and Change’ sponsored by SuperValu.

The seminar is part of an ongoing series of seminars which offer support and much-needed information to the Autism community.

The community support events, proudly sponsored by SuperValu, previously ran in communities around Ireland but will now be hosted online and shared on AsIAm and SuperValu’s social channels.

The community support seminars are driven by the autism community and delivered by autism experts, the first online seminar focuses on the changes people will see in their day to day life related to COVID-19.

The ‘COVID-19 and Change’ e-seminar is given by Psychotherapist Michael Ryan and Educational Psychologist Dr Alison Doyle focuses on practical tips for positive mental health and staying on top of educational demands, for the autism community, during this period. The seminar can be viewed on the AsIAm website here and on the AsIAm and SuperValu social pages.

Commenting on this Adam Harris, CEO of AsIAm said “AsIAm delivers Community Support Seminars across Ireland with the kind support of SuperValu.

“These seminars happen each month and cover the issues that our community face the most challenges in – from accessing supports in school through to finding a job and maintaining positive mental health.

“Due to current social-distancing guidelines these events cannot take place in local communities, but we know our community needs support now more than ever which is why we have decided to turn our seminar series into a webinar series!

“Routine and structure are vital supports for autistic people, and we are all presently faced with major changes to our daily life from where we learn to who and how we keep in touch.

“This is especially hard for the autism community and so our first Community Support Webinar looks at how we can deal with this change, create new routines and support structures and critically tackle boredom and isolation.

“Michael Ryan and Alison Doyle are leading experts in the fields of mental health and autism and educational psychology, and we are grateful to bring their expertise to our community at this critical time.” he said.

Martin Kelleher, SuperValu Managing Director said, “As sponsors of the community support seminars we are delighted these can now go online to support the autism community. Now more than ever we need to continue to support the autism community.” he added.

SuperValu is committed to raising understanding and awareness of autism among its customers and staff.

With over 50,000 families in Ireland living with autism, those affected face barriers to inclusion because of the attitudes of people who may not have first-hand experience of autism

The post AsIAm and SuperValu Launch ‘COVID-19 and Change’ Seminar Online for Autism Community appeared first on Limerick Post Newspaper.

LIT Gaelic Grounds to become site COVID-19 drive-thru testing site

$
0
0

LIMERICK Institute of Technology Gaelic Grounds is set to be used as a drive-thru testing centre for COVID-19 (coronavirus).

Limerick GAA confirmed the use of LIT Gaelic Grounds as the site for drive-thru testing in a statement issued to the press and on Twitter.

The group also announced they have offered the use of other GAA facilities if needed to the HSE during this time.

The statement reads, “We at Limerick GAA have also offered the HSE the use of our other facilities if needed as we all come together during this covid 19 crisis.

“We again encourage all our members and supporters to follow the advice from the HSE at this time.”

It is not clear when drive-thru testing will begin in the stadium, but further information is available on

The post LIT Gaelic Grounds to become site COVID-19 drive-thru testing site appeared first on Limerick Post Newspaper.

Send Love to someone special with free An Post Postcards

$
0
0
AN Post is giving every household free postcards to write personal messages for posting on, free-of-charge, to family and friends across the country to help them stay connected in the weeks ahead as more people socially isolate and become ‘cocooned’.
5,000,000 postage-paid postcards have been produced by An Post to enable people of all ages to post a message of love and support to special people in their lives.
Two specially-designed postcards, postage-paid to anywhere in Ireland, will be delivered to Ireland’s 1.8 million households over the coming week, and additional cards will be available at local post offices.   
Simply write your message and post the cards in any postbox.
“Write to your grand-parents or older relatives and friends who are self-isolating; write to someone who is living alone or who could do with a boost” explained An Post CEO, David McRedmond. 
“Send a note to your cousins or friends. Let them know you’re thinking of them.  Send thanks to our outstanding healthcare and all those working so hard to get us through the crisis.
“Then pop the postcards in the postbox when you’re out for a walk – there’s no need for a stamp. The postmen and postwomen of Ireland will deliver your message free-of-charge to your loved ones.
“There’s nothing like a personal note to raise our spirits and remind us that we’re not being forgotten, that we are all in this together and that we will get through it. Post is a powerful link connecting people and communities who have to remain apart at this strange and difficult time.
“An Post and its staff and Postmasters will do everything possible to support the State and every citizen in the coming weeks and months as we come together as a nation by staying apart” he concluded.
The cards are postage-paid for sending anywhere on the island of Ireland.
The written word is a powerful thing, so embrace it and come together. Write now.#ScríobhAnois

The post Send Love to someone special with free An Post Postcards appeared first on Limerick Post Newspaper.

Simon Harris “We need to do better at social distancing”

$
0
0

THIS morning (March 20th), Minister for Health, Simon Harris urged the public to be better at social distancing.

He took to Twitter pleading with people to listen to guidelines and to take extra caution during Covid-19.

“Morning all. We need to do better at social distancing. We really do. The guidelines are clear – keep your distance. And that includes when outside. This handy poster is a useful reminder. Let’s pull together by keeping apart #coronavirus #Covid19 ” pic.twitter.com/9AFE4adx9e

The post Simon Harris “We need to do better at social distancing” appeared first on Limerick Post Newspaper.

Brothers of Charity Services COVID-19 recruitment initiative

$
0
0
The Brothers of Charity Services Ireland have announced a special recruitment initiative to deal with the COVID-19 crisis.
Entitled “One Year in One Week”, the initiative will see the intellectual disability service provider seek to recruit one years’ worth of new staff in one week to ensure that they can maintain appropriate staffing levels during the crisis.
Starting this Friday, the 20th, all 4,500 staff of the organisation and their families are being asked to ‘like, tag and share’ a link to their recruitment site on social media.
Additionally, it is hoped that people whose livelihoods are impacted by the crisis may be able to find work through this initiative.
No experience of working with people who have an intellectual disability is required although recognition of the dignity, humanity, individuality and equality of people supported by the Services is essential.
The links are as follows:
The Brothers of Charity Services in Ireland provide a variety of services and supports to approximately 6,500 people with an intellectual disability or autism, and their families, throughout Counties Clare, Cork, Galway, Kerry, Limerick, Roscommon, Tipperary, Kilkenny and Waterford.
The supports, which include residential, respite, day, host families, home based, and multidisciplinary, are provided by approximately 4,500 staff with a variety of professional backgrounds and experience, and who are motivated in their work by the Ethos, Vision and Values of the Brothers of Charity Services.

The post Brothers of Charity Services COVID-19 recruitment initiative appeared first on Limerick Post Newspaper.

Employees now working from home urged to claim tax relief

$
0
0

THOUSANDS of workers throughout the country who have recently been asked to work from home as a result of COVID-19 can avail of Revenue’s e-worker relief.

Spokespeople at Taxback.com say that many workers who now find themselves working remotely from home may be unaware of the tax-relief available to them.

Joanna Murphy, CEO of Taxback.com acknowledged it is a “difficult time for everyone and households throughout the country are already feeling the financial impact of this”, and believes it is important people are made aware of the supports available to them.

She said, “There are already estimated 100,000 plus people who work from home and Revenue has made provisions for these people to be reimbursed for work-related expenses.

Now, these provisions can apply to the new wave of e-worker also. This is a benefit that, in our experience, is already heavily underutilised. But now more than ever people are going to need all the financial support they can get.”

 

Taxback.com say that by working from home over the coming weeks and possibly longer, will incur additional costs such as electricity, broadband, ad home heating.

Ms Murphy commented although it isn’t a legal obligation “an employer can pay €3.20 a day to their employee to cover these additional costs.

“This payment is tax-free,” she said, “which means they won’t be deducting PAYE, PRSI or USC from that amount. It isn’t a legal obligation to do this, however.

But if an employer does not or isn’t in a position to pay the €3.20, the expenses are “eligible for tax relief meaning the ‘home-worker’ can claim tax back on them”.

The Taxback.com Ceo continued, “Any claims made will need to be supported with evidence in the form of receipts and possibly a letter from your employer stating that you do, in fact, work from home and that they do not reimburse you for these expenses.

“The allowance or rebate claimed must be reasonable, allowing for the fact that the utilities are for both personal and work and benefit everyone else in the home, so the refund received will be based on only a portion of the overall expenses.

“And even if your employer does reimburse the employee – if the cost run-up exceeds the €3.20-mark, tax can still be reclaimed on the difference.”

The post Employees now working from home urged to claim tax relief appeared first on Limerick Post Newspaper.


Simon Harris: “Let’s be kind to each other this weekend”

$
0
0

MINISTER Simon Harris has again taken to Twitter to ask people to take care of each other while practising social distancing.

Last night (March 20th) we had 683 confirmed cases of Covid 19 in Ireland.

“Let’s be kind to each other this weekend – let’s look out for each. Keep our physical distance but still be there for each other,” Simon said.

He later went to a meeting with medical leaders from around the World to discuss ways to work together to tackle this pandemic.

In the Department and engaging with medical leaders from around the country on the #coronavirus #Covid19.

“Important to gain their insights and expertise. Political leaders and medical leaders must be united and work so closely. That’s what we are doing to help keep you safe,” he added. 

The post Simon Harris: “Let’s be kind to each other this weekend” appeared first on Limerick Post Newspaper.

Details of government’s employer refund scheme to be announced this coming week

$
0
0

DETAILS for the government’s employer refund scheme which allows employers to pay a worker €203 and receive a State refund are due to be announced in the coming week.

Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection, Regina Doherty, provided an update on Friday on developments regarding the scheme which allows the employer to pay the worker €203 and receive the refund due to having to temporarily lay off staff as a result of the COVID-19 (coronavirus).

Minister Doherty said having worked with the Department of Enterprise, Business and Innovation, and the Departments of Finance and Public Expenditure and Reform, they have agreed “employers engaged with the scheme should be allowed to top up the payment by the State”

“This will further strengthen the viability of the scheme and ensure that many employers can provide some additional income above the basic social welfare payment for their workers,” said the Fine Gael Minister.

Limerick TD, Kieran O’Donnell said the adjustment to the fund mad “absolute sense”:

“This adjustment to the employers’ refund scheme makes absolute sense. It ensures employers can pay a higher payment to employees than the basic rate of €203, whilst still allowing the employer to reclaim the €203 refund per week from Government.
“In these emergency times, we need to continue to introduce and refine support measures in support of businesses and employees to adapt to the evolving situation.”

Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation, Heather Humphreys TD said every business is “of value to our economy” and believes this scheme will support them “in tackling the challenges they currently face”.

Minister Humphreys said, “There are also some firms that are especially important right now and we will ensure that everything is done to protect and sustain their operations.

“The Department of Business, Enterprise and Innovation, together with Enterprise Ireland, IDA Ireland and the other state agencies, will also continue to support companies in every way they can.

“I especially welcome the response from Minister Doherty on the Covid-19 Employer Refund Scheme, which will be a great relief to those employers who are so supportive of their employees in these difficult and challenging times.”

The post Details of government’s employer refund scheme to be announced this coming week appeared first on Limerick Post Newspaper.

Bishop of Limerick, Brendan Leahy says ‘We must prepare for what’s coming’

$
0
0
WE must prepare ourselves for the most difficult experiences over the coming weeks and months, including death, as the Coronavirus takes hold, Bishop of Limerick, Brendan Leahy has said.
In a statement after Sunday Mass – streamed live from St. John’s Cathedral today – Bishop Leahy gave personal testimony of the fine life-and-death COVID-19 line that loved ones will walk as we battle the virus.
The Bishop stressed it is without our own gift to win this ‘battle’, he acknowledged in the coming weeks we will experience shock, suspense, fear and dismay, as well as bereavement.
Stressing that it’s within our own gift to win this battle, Bishop Leahy said we are entering a period of weeks when we will experience shock, suspense, fear and dismay, and, sadly for some, bereavement.
Bishop Leahy said he had “foretaste” of the feelings earlier this week “as to how fine the line will be”.
“On Wednesday, I received word that a friend was going for testing for the virus as he wasn’t well,” he said, “Thursday a text from my friend to say he was told he needed oxygen and that he would probably be in for a few days and that should help.
“Friday evening, another text from someone but with the shocking news my friend was unconscious, in a coma, critical. Thankfully, he has turned a corner and we are hopeful for him and he is surrounded by a symphony of prayer storming heaven.”
The Limerick bishop noted this all came as “a great shock” and while he offers prayer for the friend and his family “this has brought home to me just how serious the situation is”.
“It has shown me how indiscriminate this virus is. A healthy man in his 60s. In short, if it gets near us, we are vulnerable and no one knows how much.”
Stressing how much this is all in our own hands, the bishop requested everybody does their part “in preventative action”.
He said, “We have heard the guidelines and we’ve listened to the public health officials, experts telling us to really be attentive in every moment and in every action, remembering social distancing, hand hygiene, the stay at home recommendation, not hanging around in groups.
“If we saw a car out of control heading for us, we’d make sure we got out of its way. The virus is that car out of control. The danger is that it will take our parents, grandparents, the unwell, people we love dearly from us.
“But we can save them. If it were a car, you would do all you could to get them out of the way before it strikes right into, and potentially kills them. You can do that now. Together we can be their protector. We can guard them.”
The bishop said as a social people the path will not be an easy one, but noted however long the social sacrifice lasts people must stay the course.
“None of this is easy. It doesn’t come naturally to us to isolate, to restrict our movements like this. Thank God, we are a social people, we love company. So, this requires sacrifice. But this is what loving my neighbour as myself means today. In a word, love right now is ‘not growing the virus’.”
As ever, there is light in the darkness, he added, “What we can grow is a new recognition that the people by and large we isolate with is a cluster called family. Those that aren’t able to cluster there are feeling being away from family as never before has family been threatened on a large scale like this.
“It’s a time for us to appreciate, with a new gratitude, the family. We all belong in some way to a family. It’s a time to make the effort in creative ways to be a family and I’m hearing wonderfully encouraging anecdotes of people, in this moment, realising the importance and magic of family.
“The look on a child’s face in those moments of joy as we reconnect, whether through walks, games and other activities can wipe stress away, putting this moment in time – albeit a deeply troubling one – into perspective.
“Maybe there are difficulties and tensions in the family. But perhaps we can appeal to each other for an amnesty at least for the coming weeks, that we try for the sake of the children to put our hostilities on hold and be there for them.
“They, too, are worried and they need you now. Perhaps we don’t appreciate how this is probably a nervous time for them. They are picking up all kinds of signals that they may find hard to process. They may be trying to cope with the worry that their grandmother or grandfather, or perhaps their mother or father, is going to get seriously ill or worse.
“So, we really need to make the effort for the sake of our children to surround them with a caring environment that speaks to them of protection, safe space and time to talk, common activities.
“But there is also great resourcefulness and encouragement as well, not least in humour. It’s been a week when people have circulated funny Whatsapp images and videos describing the cabin fever. It’s good to keep our sense of humour alive.  It’s a necessary tonic in these days.”
In wishing all mothers a very special day, he also singled out the frontline workers of the battle against COVID-19.
“I think, too, of all those mothers on the healthcare front line today. Nurses, doctors, hospital staff of any kind, mothers in GP clinics, of course in the testing centres, those ensuring the essential services continue to be provided.
“We need to tell them today that, more than ever, they are our heroes. We know they are our heroes now so please, tell them this on our behalf. We will salute them properly in due course, but right now, I ask those of you whose mothers are out on the front line today to tell them how much we esteem their contribution. And if you have a sister or brother in any of those positions, tell them too. They are guardians of all now, just like Mary, Mother of God herself.”

The post Bishop of Limerick, Brendan Leahy says ‘We must prepare for what’s coming’ appeared first on Limerick Post Newspaper.

ISPCA offers advice for pet care during COVID-19

$
0
0

THE ISPCA is reassuring pet owners there is no evidence that pets such as dogs and cats can catch or spread COVID-19 (coronavirus).

This view is echoed by the HSE, World Organisation for Animal Health, and the World Small Animal Veterinary Association who believe the coronavirus cannot be transmitted from human to animal or vice versa.

However, if your pet is touched by someone with the coronavirus then there is the potential that it can be spread, should someone else come into contact with your pet. But the ISPCA say this risk is low as transmission needs prolonged contact or exposure.

ISPCA Public Relations Manager, Carmel Murray says the group are asking people “not to worry about their pets”.

“It is important to interact with your pets as normal and to wash your hands regularly after contact with any animal,” said Ms Murray, “It is also practical to make plans just in case you are ill, so that if needed, there is someone such as a family member or a friend who can help care for your pets short or long term”.

Carmel noted even during these uncertain times the work of the ISPCA does not stop, and dedicated staff still provide a high level of care to the “hundreds of animals in our centres”.

“Sadly, we expect to lose many of our vital donations which is a huge worry,” she said, “We are in this together and we’ll do everything we can to continue rescuing and caring for Ireland’s most cruelly treated animals.

“As a charity, we rely on the generosity of kind supporters to enable us to continue our vital work and we do need your continued support more than ever”.

ISPCA Tips and Advice for caring for your pets during this time:

  • When out walking your dog, you should ensure they are kept on a short lead and under control at all times.
  • Restrict contact with other people and animals and adhere to social distancing guidelines.
  • Continue to exercise and play with your pets to alleviate stress in the confines of your garden.
  • There is also plenty of ways to keep your pets entertained such as putting their favourite treats in a Kong pet toy or by using food puzzle toys or by play fetch or tug-of-war with their favourite toy.
  • This is a good time to teach your pets some new tricks. We would love to see your cute animal photos or videos.
  • Avoid sharing your food or being kissed or licked by your pet and always wash your hands.
  • It’s important to you have sufficient pet food, prescribed medication or other essentials such as cat litter during self-isolation.
  • Plan ahead in the event you need help caring for your pets short or long term.

As the COVID-19 crisis continues, ISPCA centres are temporarily closed to the public as a precautionary measure.  It is important we continue with good hygiene measures and follow advice. Stay safe and stay home.

For more information about the ISPCA, please visit www.ispca.ie.

The post ISPCA offers advice for pet care during COVID-19 appeared first on Limerick Post Newspaper.

Communities doing something special – St. Munchin’s Community Centre

$
0
0

AT this time we need community more than anything, they are the heart of villages, towns, cities and countryside.

One Limerick community is rallying together at this time to make sure that those around them are fed, keeping safe and practicing social distancing.

St. Munchin’s Community Centre in Kileely, run a Meals on Wheels service to ensure all members of the community are fed at this very difficult time.

St Munchins Community Centre | Meals on Wheels

“Our centre is currently open as a collection point of Meals, the public need to ring before 11am to ensure we are prepared to have their meals ready for collection,” Laura told us.

This week alone production had tripled due to demand but local businesses are coming together to support the initiative.

“We are a social enterprise, but we’re a non profit organisation. We set up a GoFundMe page to help with the extra costs of a Meals on Wheels service.

“We are mind blown with the generosity of people in Limerick & Ireland wanting to help with the costing,” Laura explained.

You can donate here.  

For Meals on Wheels, call (061) 596 011 before 11am or for Dinner collections call before 11am on (061) 458 651.

They are social enterprise, but are non-profit. If any businesses would like to donate anything, please contact (061) 458 651.

They are in desperate need of hand sanitizers & masks. They are accepting food donations, if any business has anything to offer.

If you would like your community to feature in our Communities doing something special please email news@limerickpost.ie

The post Communities doing something special – St. Munchin’s Community Centre appeared first on Limerick Post Newspaper.

Viewing all 19891 articles
Browse latest View live