Welcome Note

A chara:

Once again June was a busy month both at Leinster House and in my constituency.

So much happens each month both in my role as Minister in the Department of Children, Equality, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth and on the ground at constituency level.

I meet many obstacles on my daily journey, so it's important not to take my eye off the horizon. Sometimes I have to throw off the bowlines, sail away from the safe harbour to catch the trade winds!

Over the long run, the unglamorous habit of small steps fosters both productivity, creativity and ultimately results.

The great essentials to achieve anything worthwhile are: hard work, persistence, common sense and a good dash of bravery!

As the government prepare for recess, I am looking forward to working in my constituency for the summer on local projects, large and small in my quest to ensure 'Galway's Fair Share'.

I will be sure to keep you updated both on my website and by email.

I would like to take this opportunity to wish the Irish team the very best of luck in the FIFA World Cup 2023 in Australia. I will be cheering them on with my family with the odd Olé, Olé, Olé!

Ádh mór ar Éirinn.

If you are a new subscriber to my monthly emails, welcome and thank you for making our day by signing up to receive our emails.

Anne

Constituency News

Signify Health opens new technology centre in Galway’s Bonham Quay, creating 125 jobs

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Signify Health’s new state-of-the art technology centre in the heart of Galway city was officially opened on June 20 by the company’s CEO Kyle Armbrester. Special guests at the opening included Minister for Disability Anne Rabbitte TD and IDA CEO Michael Lohan.

This is Signify Health’s first base outside of the U.S. and the impressive almost 20,000sq ft offices span across two floors in the iconic state-of-the-art Bonham Quay complex overlooking Galway Docks.

​Signify Health, a CVS Health company (NYSE: CVS), is a leading U.S healthcare technology platform that is working to solve some of the biggest problems in the U.S healthcare system.

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Galway is where the company is building a dynamic and diverse tech team who are creating cutting-edge solutions to help transform the U.S. healthcare system.

Based at Bonham Quay, the company is actively recruiting. For current employment opportunities at Signify Health’s Galway technology centre, go to https://boards.greenhouse.io/signifyhealthireland​

€6,5 million funding for third level institutions to improve Galway college campuses and 339 new annual places for NUI and ATU Galway.

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The government has announced €40 million funding for third level institutions to improve college campuses, with a total of €4,043,043 for ATU Galway and €2,489,624 for NUI Galway. The funding, which will be distributed to 20 institutions, will be used to improve access for people with disabilities, and invest in necessary upgrades.

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I wholeheartedly welcome this announcement by my colleague Minister Harris. Our government are committed to developing word class facilities for our third level students. The accessibility problems of today become the mainstream problems of tomorrow.

I truly look forward to a day when disabilities, mental or physical, are seen are seen as powerful assets if given the right opportunity, that human potential is realised at every opportunity along the educational highway, that the talent of the individual nurtured and promoted.

It takes a lot of guts to be different in this world, yet accessibility is something most of the population can benefit from and allows us to tap into everyone’s potential.

I also welcome the fantastic news of a significant expansion in third level places for healthcare and veterinary medicine, with 175 new annual places for University Galway and 184 places for ATU Galway.

Events

Minister Anne Rabbitte launches ‘The Future of Disability’ discussion document

As Minister of State with responsibility for Disability, I am delighted to contribute to the discussion document ‘The Future of Disability,’ with The Fianna Fáil Disability Network.

I and my Government colleagues are committed to providing services and support for people with disabilities, which will empower them to live their lives and provide greater independence in accessing the services they choose.

For me, it is essential there are clear pathways in place for people with disabilities, so people know what and where supports are available, regardless of diagnosis or need.

Notwithstanding this, I recognise the continuing need to address the bespoke challenges that people with disabilities face today in Ireland. These challenges occur at all stages of life and in all facets of life, from healthcare, to education, to employment, and other areas. We must lead by example in these areas so that nobody is left behind.

I will continue to be an advocate for people with disabilities across Government and I look forward to continuing to work with the Fianna Fáil Disability Network to build on the outstanding work presented in this discussion document.

To access the full discussion document, click here.

Attending Social Farm Open Day at Blatnaid Gallagher’s Farm in Ballinasloe to celebrate Social Farming

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Ballinasloe, Co. Galway witnessed a remarkable turnout on Monday, May 29th, as Blatnaid Gallagher’s Farm hosted a Social Farm Open Day.

I was delighted to be present to show my support to this wonderful initiative.

The event was organised by Social Farming Ireland, who promote social farming: a practice that provides individuals who use services with the opportunity to engage in day-to-day farm activities, fostering inclusion, self-esteem, and improved health and well-being.

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It provides individuals facing social, physical, mental, or intellectual challenges with the chance to engage in a nurturing and inclusive setting on a family farm.

Social Farming Ireland are hosting a number of Social Farming events this summer.

Booking is essential and can be done here.
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Meeting with EPIC to discuss new report on children in care with disabilities

I attended a fruitful meeting with EPIC (Empowering People in Care) at Leinster house to discuss the findings of their recent report “Headphones, Odd Shoes and A Second Chance at Life”, a study on children in care and care-leavers with disabilities. EPIC Youth Council members Alan Fay and Andrea Reilly briefed me on the main findings and shared their own lived experiences.

Opening the Sensory Garden in Glouthane, Co. Cork

I was delighted to attend the opening of a Sensory Garden in Glouthaune, Co Cork on Tuesday 13 June.

The project is a collaborative effort between Cork County Council and Glounthaune Community Association.​

It is supported by the Disability Participation and Awareness Fund, a €3 million fund launched earlier this year by the Minister to support the participation of people with disabilities in local activities, to provide valuable employment experience for persons with disabilities, and to help remove barriers to community involvement.

Sensory gardens are specially designed outdoor spaces that stimulate the senses through various plants, textures, scents, and features, providing a therapeutic and immersive experience for people of all ages and abilities.

Councillor Anthony Barry, Chairperson of the Cobh Municipal District, and a representative from Glounthaune Community Association were also present at the opening.

I invite everyone to experience the wonders of the new Sensory Garden, which is open to the public now and can is located in Craig’s Field, Glouthane, Co. Cork.

Launch of Variety Children's Charity & Hidden Disabilites at Cliffs of Moher

It was my pleasure to attend the launch of Variety Children's Charity & Hidden Disabilities Sunflower, joining Deputy Mayor of Clare, Anne Norton, Senator Róisín Garvey, Violet-Anne Wynne TD, Variety CEO Derek O'Neill, Sunflower CEO Paul White and Sunflower Regional Director, Tristan Casson-Rennie at Ireland's number one tourist spot, The Cliffs of Moher

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Attending Go Bus, Citylink and Hidden Disabilities Event at Galway Cathedral

Since the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower was established in the UK in 2016, it has been adopted globally by organisations to support their colleagues and customers.

The Sunflower is recognised across a broad range of sectors - ranging from retail, financial services, transport including over 140 airports, travel and tourism, education as well as healthcare, emergency service and entertainment.

This new initiative aims to ensure that individuals with disabilities have equal access to public transportation and enjoy a seamless travel experience.

Recognising the importance of creating an inclusive transportation system, GoBus and Irish Citilink have taken significant steps to accommodate the diverse needs of passengers.

By recognising the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower, the company aims to eliminate barriers and make public transportation more accessible for individuals with disabilities, empowering them to travel freely and independently.

GoBus, one of Ireland’s leading providers of scheduled coach services, has announced its commitment to enhancing accessibility and inclusivity by recognising the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower on all its services.

The company aims to make modifications to its buses and facilities in the coming years, including priority seating for individuals with disabilities and improved signage to assist visually impaired passengers. By incorporating these enhancements, GoBus aims to provide all passengers with a comfortable and safe travel experience.

This initiative allows the company to help passengers travel confidently and independently on the Sunflower-friendly coach services across its direct routes between Cork to Dublin City and Airport, Galway to Dublin City and Airport and Galway to Ballina Commuter network.

Irish Citylink has become the first Irish Coach Operator to officially recognise the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower.

Barriers faced by people with non-visible disabilities using public transport are not simply limited to mobility issues.

Irish Citylink recognises the importance of accessible travel for their customers and that by joining the Sunflower, they are enhancing passenger experience.

By increasing awareness of non-visible disabilities and the Sunflower across their company, they are supporting passengers with non-visible disabilities to travel independently on their coach services.

Those that travel with Irish Citylink can be confident that they will receive the support, assistance and understanding they require throughout their journey.

Sunflower lanyards are available for free by contacting their offices in Galway or Dublin or by picking one up from their reception.

Galway Arts Festival 2023

Each year since 1978, creatives and culture consumers have descended on the west of Ireland to take part in Galway International Arts Festival.

In 2022, over 600 performances took place in 32 venues over the course of 14 days, with an attendance in excess of 300,000.

GIAF employed a small core team as well as over 100 contract staff and was supported by 1,000 volunteers.

The Festival delivered an estimated economic impact of €34.4 million for the local economy. Now that is impressive.

The last few years have seen various challenges across the arts sector and beyond, yet GIAF have always worked hard to deliver a meaningful programme, adapting during times of uncertainty.

All income from our activities is invested back into the Festival each year, so that any monetary support you give goes toward delivering critical impact.

There are so many ways to utilise your particular passions and talents to support creativity through Galway International Arts Festival.

I do look forward to attending some of the talks at University of Galway, the art installations throughout the city and a number of theatrical performances.

Grow Remote Summit 2023

The Midlands hosted a major National Remote Working Conference on June 8-9th, with an impressive line-up of international leaders and experts in Remote Working descending on Portlaoise to bring together the remote working community, leaders in government, business innovators, and employers to explore the future of work.

The Grow Remote Summit focused on the need to have conversations, in person, on the future of remote for profit, people and planet.

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The Summit explored the challenges and opportunities over two days of talks, a recruitment fair, and a jam-packed slate of after-hours events.

24,000 Midlands Commuters

The message from Grow Remote is clear. There are an incredible 100,000 remote careers open to workers in the Midlands today.

Around 30% of these have built in co-working stipends but many are not advertised locally as remote jobs often have no location within a tax jurisdiction/timezone.
A key aim for the Summit was to look at the gap between the potential of remote work and its current impact.

Grow Remote estimate that as many as 24,000 commuters leave the Midlands region each day for work.

The gap is either in visibility, suitability or accessibility and this is what the Summit aimed to uncover and build solutions around.

Converting Irish Employers to Remote

Employers were the key focus for the event, with Round Tables and Workshops looking at the common challenges experienced by companies that need solving.

Leading remote-first employers discussed best practice and explore solutions.

Using experiences from the Grow Remote Alliance, which features senior executives from the likes of Vodafone and the ESB, and from running Ireland’s largest training courses in Remote Working and Managing Remote Teams, the future of remote work were opened up for discussions on how best to move forward in developing remote work policies and standards with employers

Connected Hubs

Launched in May 2021, Connected Hubs is designed to simplify and standardise the process of sourcing and booking spaces, desks, offices and events in hubs for a day, a week, a month, a year or longer.

ConnectedHubs.ie is operated by The National Hub Network, a Government of Ireland initiative that provides a vehicle for individual hubs to come together under a shared identity to maximise the economic opportunity of remote working.

The National Hub Network has the full support of Government, remote working advocacy groups and industry representatives.

In this way, ConnectedHubs.ie also encompasses a range of key features that deliver significant benefits to member hubs, hub clients, employers, local communities and the wider economy.

For existing or potential hub clients, including employers, these benefits include:

• An easy-to-use booking and payment system that is consistent across all hubs throughout the network
• Development of a peer-to-peer hub community and the expansion of their professional network, creating new opportunities
• Sharing of innovation, experience and best-practices within the community
• Supporting collaborative projects in the Network to drive economies of scale
• Supporting collective engagement between Connected Hubs and large scale employers

For member hubs and their communities, these benefits include:

• A shared Connected Hubs brand identity for all member hubs
• Centralised Connected Hubs media and promotional campaigns
• Access to the ConnectedHubs.ie suite of booking, hub management and e-commerce applications
• Developing a shared quality standard for hubs in the Network
• Developing a ‘shared voice’ for Connected Hubs
• Supporting collective engagement between Connected Hubs and Government agencies
• Helping to identify the benefits Connected Hubs deliver for their local communities and the wider economy
• Developing a dataset to inform future investment decisions in remote working facilities

​ConnectedHubs.ie is managed by the Western Development Commission in conjunction with the Department of Rural and Community Development (DRCD).

Members of the National Hub Network also contribute to the ongoing development and moderation of content for the site.

Each Hub manages its own listings and space availability settings.

In Other News

Government announces €300,000 funding for Agri-Food Tourism projects

​Bia Innovator Campus Galway (Food and Ag. experience) to receive €25,000​

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Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine Charlie McConalogue TD has announced close on €300,000 in funding to 17 local agri-food tourism projects. The funding is made available under the 2023 Rural Innovation and Development Fund through the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine.

The Rural Regeneration and Development Fund is a commitment of €1 billion by government to be invested in rural Ireland over the period 2019 to 2027.

Ireland is synonymous with high quality food produce and our 10 year roadmap for the agriculture sector laid out in Food Vision 2030 clearly highlights the natural symbiosis between agri-food and local sustainable tourism.

We can demonstrate that our Irish produce is of high quality and can be used in all cuisines around the world, whether it is convivial family moments, or in restaurants run by top chefs.

Find the complete list of funded initiatives here.

FAI welcomes funding for women and girls' football

The Football Association of Ireland has welcomed the announcement by Government of additional funding to support development of Women and Girls' Football.

At a special function at Farmleigh to celebrate the Ireland Women's National Team ahead of FIFA Women's World Cup 2023, it was confirmed that up to €500,000 will be earmarked for Grassroots girls' programmes, adult women recreational football and women in football leadership programmes.

An Taoiseach Leo Varadkar, An Tánaiste Mícheál Martin, Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media Catherine Martin TD, and Minister of State for Sport and Physical Education Thomas Byrne TD hosted Vera Pauw, the Ireland WNT and backroom staff, FAI President Gerry McAnaney and CEO Jonathan Hill as well as FAI Board Directors.

CEO Jonathan Hill said:

As our Ireland Women's National Team prepare for their final World Cup preparation game on home soil, against France in Tallaght Stadium on Thursday night, it is fantastic that they would be celebrated by the Government in such a way which clearly means a lot to the Association.

The announcement of additional funding is a great step forward in our ongoing work to fulfil the potential of football for women and girls in Ireland and it will help to build on the legacy that our current Women's Team are creating.

Minister for Housing, Darragh Walsh Visit to Athenry

Athenry Show

Government announces €15.6 million Basic Payment Scheme Refund to 95,000 farmers

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This money, deducted from 2021 Basic Payment Scheme (BPS) payments in line with EU regulations under the Financial Discipline mechanism, is now being reimbursed to farmers.

The financial discipline mechanism is part of the annual budgetary procedure of the European Union.

The financial discipline mechanism involves a monetary deduction (1.65% for the 2021 reduction) from some direct payments for the provision of a financial Crisis Reserve for the European Union.

The Crisis Reserve is intended to provide additional support for the agricultural sector in the case of major crises affecting agricultural production or distribution.

If the Crisis Reserve is not activated in the financial year, or it is not fully utilised, the unused balance is refunded to farmers in the subsequent financial year.

Online Health System Performance Assessment Platform Launched

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The Minister for Health has launched an innovative new online visual health data monitoring tool, created to provide an overview of the performance and health outcomes of the health service. The new HSPA website (www.hspa.gov.ie) has been populated with health data in the areas of life expectancy, disease outcomes, health risk factors such as; smoking and obesity, the level of access to health services, affordability, the quality of the care provided, as well as the efficiency of health services.

Men’s Health Week: addressing men’s health challenges in Ireland

Men’s Health Week took place from 12-18 June and aimed to increase awareness of preventable health problems for men, promote the timely identification and management of health issues and support them in achieving a healthy lifestyle.

Males in Ireland face significant health challenges, with higher mortality rates and a higher burden of chronic diseases compared to females.

Poor lifestyle choices and late presentation to healthcare services exacerbates these problems, making many conditions untreatable. Despite the preventable nature of these issues, there is hope for improvement through ongoing efforts aimed at addressing men’s specific health needs.

The Action Man booklet gives information about actions to address these problems. By following the provided ten top tips, individuals are empowered to make positive changes and take control of their own health.

The Action Man booklet can be downloaded here.

For more information, visit the Men’s Health Week website. ​
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Funding Opportunities

Sports Capital & Equipment Programme 2023

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Sports Capital and Equipment announced with increased thresholds for local and regional projects

• local project maximum grant increased from €150,000 to €200,000
• regional project maximum grant increased from €300,000 to €500,000
• specific focus on climate action, sustainability and gender equality
• Read More HERE.

ORIS: €16 million funding available to support outdoor recreation amenities

• A major €16 million fund to support hundreds of outdoor recreation projects across the country is currently open for applications.
• The 2023 Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS) will see the development of our natural amenities such as our mountains, lakes, rivers, beaches, blue-ways, bogs, forest walks and uplands.
• ORIS builds on the commitment under 'Our Rural Future' and is a key strand in 'Embracing Ireland's Outdoors', the National Outdoor Recreation Strategy 2023 - 2027 which is set to shape the future of outdoor recreation over the next five years.
• Read More HERE.

New Pilot Scheme Offers Grants to Ready Vacant Farmhouses for Refurbishment

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Grants of up to €7,500 available for expert conservation advice

The Department of Housing, Local Government, and Heritage is introducing a new pilot scheme to provide grants for expert conservation advice to owners of vacant farmhouses in private ownership who are availing of and/or considering the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant.

The Conservation Advice Grant Scheme for Vacant Traditional Farmhouses will provide grants of up to €7,500 (ex VAT) to cover the cost of having a conservation expert with proven and appropriate expertise visit a property, conduct a survey, and compile tailored conservation advice for the property owner.

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Those interested in availing of the scheme can apply through the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage website. More information can be found there as well.

Community Recognition Fund: €50 million allocated to areas that have welcomed new arrivals

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• The Government has announced €50 million in funding for over 880 projects as part of the first ever Community Recognition Fund .
• The major initiative is designed to support and reward communities that have welcomed families and citizens from Ukraine and other countries.
• The projects range from large-scale multi-purpose sports facilities, upgrades to community centres, equipment for sports clubs, outdoor walkways, playgrounds, community buses and equipment for festivals.
• Details of the successful projects across the country and in each local authority area are available here.​
• Read More HERE.

Training and Personal Development

Springboard Courses

www.springboardcourses.ie 2023/24 will open Wednesday 7th June, providing 11,000 free or heavily subsidised college courses announced for unemployed, self-employed or returners to work.

The courses are in areas that have been identified as of critical importance such as Cybersecurity, Virtual Reality, Health Innovation, Logistics and Online Retail.

Programmes in Climate, Sustainability and Energy which are central to the Programme for Government are also being funded.

Courses are free for the unemployed, previously self-employed and returners to the workforce.

For others, 90 per cent of the course fee is funded by the Government, with participants required to contribute just 10 per cent of the fee.

Helpline – 1800 303 523

The Springboard+ system will open for course applications on Wednesday 7th June.

Experienced guidance counsellors will be available to advise potential Springboard+ and HCI Pillar 1 participants on their options on the freephone Springboard+ helpline, which will go live in mid-June.

Candidates who wish to participate in Springboard+ 2023 or HCI Pillar 1 courses will find full details on the approved courses on www.springboardcourses.ie.

Applications are now open.

Biodiversity and the Natural Environment - GRETB

This module would interest anyone who would like to gain a better understanding of the importance of biodiversity for the natural environment.

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Participants will explore:

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• the role of biodiversity and common threats at genetic, specific and ecosystem levels
• the effects of human activities on the environment to include exhaustion of natural resources, climate change, habitat destruction, pollution, loss of biodiversity and invasive alien species.
• the role of water quality including organic pollution, eutrophication, toxic pollution and the hydrological cycle
• the main provisions of the Wildlife Act.
This module is part of the QQI level 5 major award: Horticulture 5M2586.

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​Read More HERE​

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Read more interesting posts:

Government Confirms Introduction Of New Employment Rights For Parents | AnnerabbitteGovernment Launches The National Apiculture Programme 2023 – 2027 | AnnerabbitteGovernment Announces New Pay Deal For Supervisors Of Employment Support Schemes: 5% Pay Increase To Benefit Over 1,600 Employees | AnnerabbitteGovernment Launches New Farmland Identification Book As Part Of The Rollout Of The ACRES Scheme | Annerabbitte

Find all June news posts here:

June 2023 | Annerabbitte

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Applications

Applications opened for the 2023 Back to School Clothing and Footwear Allowance

NPWS announces call for new Farm Plan Scheme participants to benefit nature

• The National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) Farm Plan Scheme supports farmers and land managers to deliver actions that benefit habitats and species in areas of European and Irish importance for biodiversity
• Minister Noonan invites interested landowners to submit applications by 4th August 2023
• For more information, see https://www.npws.ie/farmers-and-landowners/schemes/npws-farm-plan-scheme​

Government announces opening of the Farm Safety Scheme, under the Targeted Agricultural Modernisation Scheme (TAMS 3)

• Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Food, and the Marine with special responsibility for farm safety Martin Heydon T.D. has announced that the Farm Safety Scheme under the new Targeted Agricultural Modernisation Scheme (TAMS 3) is now open for applications.
• A full list of the eligible investments is detailed at Annex B of the scheme Terms and Conditions. All Department Structural Specifications and notices relevant to this Scheme can be accessed on the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine website at: gov.ie – TAMS – Farm Building and Structures Specifications (www.gov.ie)​
• Further information and advice on safety and wellbeing for farmers is available at: gov.ie – Farm Safety (www.gov.ie)​
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McConalogue announces opening of the Woman Farmers’ Capital Investment Scheme under TAMS 3

• The Targeted Agricultural Modernisation Scheme (TAMS 3) scheme provides funding for capital investments on farms and will be in place for five years with a budget of €370m.
• For more information, see
• ​https://annerabbitte.ie/mcconalogue-announces-opening-of-the-woman-farmers-capital-investment-scheme-under-tams-3/​

Government welcomes launch of the first Calls for Application under new PEACE PLUS Programme