Meeting with Maria Walsh MEP

Maria Walsh MEP met with us this morning, and I spoke to her about the full inclusion of Kildare in Just Transition funding and the match funding criteria for this scheme. I also asked Maria about how Irish law needs to comply with the EU Habitats Directive, particularly in relation to Annex V species, which…

Hill of Allen Lights Up

Great initiative by Into Kildare. Absolutely amazing to see our most prominent landmark on the Hill of Allen lighting up across the surrounding countryside! My thanks to all involved for bringing this symbol of hope to the people of Kildare. Well done to Allenwood man Enda Grace of Dundara Television & Media who produced the…

Drehid Landfill Expansion Refused

Permission to expand the Drehid Landfill has been refused by An Bord Pleanála for a number of reasons. A big concern amongst local residents was the impact of heavy haulage traffic on nearby schools and villages. The board did refuse on the basis that an expansion would “give rise to traffic congestion and would endanger…

Ireland’s COVID-19 Data Hub

I’ve been keeping track of COVID-19 cases in our area using the Government’s Data Hub. See https://covid19ireland-geohive.hub.arcgis.com/. I pay more attention to these local numbers more than the national figures at this point. I’m also finding that a daily walk and getting some fresh air is really helping my mental health. Try to get outside…

Register to Vote in Kildare

If you have just turned 18, or will be 18 on February 15th 2021, then you can register now to vote in future elections. To check if you are already registered go to http://www.checktheregister.ie/ To register, just print out the form at https://b-wy.se/voting-form and complete it. If you don’t have access to a printer then…

Pre-planning for Ballydermot Wind Farm

Bord na Móna Powergen today announced commencement of the pre-planning stage for a proposed wind farm development in the large peatland area close to Lullymore, Ballyteague, Allenwood, Killina, Ticknevin and Ballyhagan. My own home is less than 350 metres from the boundary of the development, so I will be using my local knowledge of the…

New report on Broadband and Digital

At the October meeting of full council, I sought the support of my fellow councillors to have a section added to the monthly Chief Executive’s report relating to Digital & Telecommunications Development. The provision of fast and reliable broadband to every home in the county is essential. Even more so now as more people are…