Category Archives: Uncategorized

Sinn Féin Councillor Conor D. McGuinness has called on the Council’s Roads Department to restore the area around the Burgery monument, which as been disrupted during the ongoing N25 resurfacing works nearby.  “This coming March marks the 100th anniversary of the Burgery Ambush. This engagement was part of a campaign of attacks against British forcesContinue reading “Plea to restore Burgery Monument ahead of ambush centenary”

Sinn Féin Councillor Conor D. McGuinness posed a series of questions regarding repair and maintenance works at the fisheries harbour at Cé Heilbhic in An Rinn during the December Dungarvan-Lismore District meeting.  McGuinness noted that dredging the harbour remained a priority but queried why works to repair the breakwater had stopped, with a considerable amountContinue reading “McGuinness queries progress on Cé Heilbhic works”

Sinn Féin Councillor Conor D. McGuinness has welcomed the publication of the Council’s multi-year capital plan this month. The plan will see a total investment of €230 million across Waterford City and County to the end of 2024.  McGuinness said:  “Its important for us to take a strategic approach to capital investment and planning theseContinue reading “McGuinness welcomes €230 million multi-year Capital Plan for Waterford”

Sinn Féin Councillor Conor D. McGuinness has said that Waterford needs an additional 570 homes per year just to keep up with growing demand for housing across the city and county. McGuinness made the comments as the ESRI launched a major new research paper examining housing demand over the coming two-decades, entitled Regional Demographics and StructuralContinue reading “Waterford needs 570+ additional houses per year to keep up with demand – McGuinness”

Sinn Féin Councillor Conor D. McGuinness has welcomed funding for festivals across Waterford City and County under the Council’s 2021 funding scheme. McGuinness proposed the allocations at the December meeting of Waterford City and County Council.  McGuinness said: “I was glad to secure the unanimous support of the full Council for my proposal to allocateContinue reading “McGuinness welcomes €1.26 million Waterford Festival grants for 2021”

Sinn Féin Councillor Conor D. McGuinness has said that Ireland is heading towards an “unprecedented mental health crisis for older people”, with existing services for the elderly “under resourced, inadequate and not connected with each other”. Speaking after a publication of a report “Mental Health Services for Older Persons” by the Mental Health Commission, CllrContinue reading “Government must address unmet mental health needs of older persons – McGuinness”

The leader of Sinn Féin on Waterford Council has branded the Government’s refusal to pay student nurses a fair wage as shameful. Councillor Conor McGuinness represents Waterford on the HSE Regional Forum.  McGuinness said:  “Despite the huge stress and pressure of working on the frontline at the heart of this unprecedented health crisis, thousands ofContinue reading “McGuinness: Government exploitation of Waterford student nurses is shameful”

Sinn Féin Councillor Conor D. McGuinness has called on the Minister for Housing to urgently engage with the local authorities about reforming the Vacant Sites Levy. Waterford was one of only four local authorities that reported collecting revenue since the scheme. Less than 2% of the total amount owed to Waterford for 2019 has actuallyContinue reading “‘Pathetic’ Vacant Sites Levy returns demand action – McGuinness”

Sinn Féin Councillor Conor D. McGuinness has criticised the government for squandering €50 million on carbon credits instead of using it for real climate action. He said money would be better spent on retrofitting schemes for older council housing stock, and measures aimed at improving the energy efficiency of public buildings and homes.  McGuinness said:Continue reading “McGuinness: Government prefers to squander money on carbon credits than to retrofit housing stock”

Sinn Féin Councillor Conor McGuinness has criticised an EU plan to eliminate customs duties on certain products, citing the negative implications the deal would have on Irish lobster fishers. McGuinness said: “My party colleague MEP Chris McManus has voted against this flawed proposal in the European Parliament. Sinn Féin is committed to supporting Ireland’s inshoreContinue reading “Sinn Féin votes to protect Irish Lobster Fishers – McGuinness”

The Sinn Féin group on Waterford City and County Council has given its support to the local authority’s budget for 2021.Group leader Councillor Conor McGuinness said:“Following careful consideration, and acting in the best interests of the people that we are privileged to represent, the Sinn Féin team has voted in support of the budget asContinue reading “Sinn Féin backs Council Budget for Waterford”

Sinn Féin Councillor Conor D. McGuinness met the workers at the steps of the Civic Offices and accepted a letter from them to be delivered to Council management. McGuinness said: “These workers have been caught in the middle of a planning issue between their employer and Waterford City and County Council. Through no fault ofContinue reading “Homesavers workers caught in the middle”

Sinn Féin Councillor Conor D. McGuinness has criticised the Minister for Agriculture for his failure to seek an accommodation for livestock buyers to permit attendance at marts on a restrictive basis.   McGuinness described Minister McConalogue’s position as ‘naïve’ and ‘uninformed’ as to the consequences of mart closures. McGuinness said: “Food production has rightly been deemedContinue reading “Agriculture Ministers ‘uninformed’ and ‘naïve’ – McGuinness”

Sinn Féin Councillor Conor McGuinness has welcomed the introduction of the Homeless Prevention Bill 2020, which aims to places a legal obligation on local authorities to provide people at risk of homelessness with a plan and appropriate supports to prevent them from entering homeless services. The Bill was introduced in the Dáil by Sinn FéinContinue reading “Sinn Féin introduces Homeless Prevention Bill – McGuinness”

Sinn Féin Councillor Conor D. McGuinness has said that carbon tax will punish those with no alternative and called on the Government to reconsider the introduction of the tax that is set to be introduced in the coming days.  McGuinness said:  “Carbon Tax is due to be imposed over the next few days as theContinue reading “McGuinness: Carbon tax will punish ordinary Waterford households”

Sinn Féin councillor Conor D. McGuinness has welcomed an allocation of almost €150,000 for projects in Co. Waterford.  McGuinness said:  “I am delighted that three projects in Co. Waterford have each received €49,500 under the Clár programme.  “The projects awarded include  Traffic calming measures at Knockanore and footpaths and public lighting in Clashmore and Kilrossanty.  “I wantContinue reading “McGuinness welcomes Clár funding for Co. Waterford”

West Waterford Sinn Féin will host an online panel discussion entitled ‘Waterford’s Fight for Freedom’ to mark the centenary of the ambush at Piltown Cross, which took place on November 1st 1920.  The West Waterford Brigade of the I.R.A. ambushed British forces in an operation that was daring in its ambition and precise in itsContinue reading “West Waterford Sinn Féin to mark Piltown Ambush centenary with panel discussion”

Sinn Féin Council Group Leader Conor McGuinness has spoken of his disappointment and anger as the controversial Commission of Investigation (Mother and Baby Homes and Certain related Matters) Records Bill has become law following votes in the Dáil and Seanad last week. the Bill was supported by Fianna Fáil, Fine Gael and the Green Party.Continue reading “Victims and survivors once again failed by the state – McGuinness”

Sinn Féin Councillor Conor D. McGuinness has requested that additional streetlights are placed along a dark stretch of the N25 at the Burgery.  McGuinness said: “For some reason a small stretch of the N25 was left without streetlights when the rest of the road was lit up many years ago. There is a gap inContinue reading “Street Lights for The Burgery – McGuinness”

Sinn Féin Councillor Conor D. McGuinness has called for persistent flooding on the L2039 at Kilossera to be addressed as a matter of urgency.  McGuinness said:  “This is a busy road, from the N25 to Glenbeg National School. It runs along the Brickey Estuary and is bounded by marsh to the North. It has floodedContinue reading “McGuinness calls for flood relief on L2039 at Kilossera”

Sinn Féin Councillor Conor D. McGuinness has called on the Government to introduce a detailed road map for mental health services during the impending period of tighter Covid19 restrictions.  The Regional Health Forum member has called for a detailed plan to be put in place so people can get the mental health supports “where andContinue reading “Road map for mental health services needed ahead of tighter Covid restrictions – McGuinness”

Sinn Féin Councillor Conor D. McGuinness has called on the government to reintroduce the ban on evictions, notices to quit and rent increases. The call comes as the government introduces a new round of Covid-19 restrictions. McGuinness said: “The Government has moved to introduce further restrictions to help stop the spread of Covid-19. These restrictionsContinue reading “McGuinness: Government must reintroduce ban on evictions”

Sinn Féin Councillor Conor D. McGuinness has said it is long past time for the Council to tackle serious anti-social behaviour head on. He made the comments following a meeting of the Council’s Housing Committee, where a draft anti-social behaviour policy was presented to members.  McGuinness said:  “I have been campaigning for the Council’s housingContinue reading “Time for Council to tackle Anti Social Behaviour head on – McGuinness”

Waterford’s team of Sinn Féin elected representatives have signalled their support for a fair resolution to the current dispute between former employees of Debenhams and the companies liquidators KPMG. Pickets have been in place at stores across the state for almost 180 days and last Monday workers in Waterford staged a one week occupation ofContinue reading “Sinn Féin support Waterford Debenhams workers in their campaign for fair redundancy”

Sinn Féin Councillor Conor D. McGuinness has criticised Waterford’s Fianna Fáil and Green Party TDs for refusing to vote down an unfair and potentially illegal scheme which would see Waterford fishermen persecuted without being able to appeal, while foreign-registered fishing boats operating in Irish waters would be immune.  Sinn Féin proposed a Dáil motion toContinue reading “McGuinness: Fianna Fáil and Greens vote for continued persecution of Waterford fishermen”

Sinn Féin Councillor Conor D. McGuinness has expressed his disappointment at the unwillingness of the Department of Education to tackle the major issues facing school secretaries following unsuccessful outcomes to hearings at the Workplace Relations Commission today. School secretaries across Waterford had engaged in a series of one-day strikes seeking a level-playing field when itContinue reading “Department of Education pushing School Secretaries to the brink of industrial action – McGuinness”

Sinn Féin Councillor Conor McGuinness has written to the Central Bank to warn that an extension of COVID-19 payment breaks for borrowers is “necessary to avoid serious detrimental consequences for loan and mortgage holders”. McGuinness raised the issue ahead of Wednesday’s deadline for granting payment breaks that are protected by emergency European guidelines. Sinn FéinContinue reading “McGuinness warns of ‘detrimental consequences’ for West Waterford borrowers if Covid payment break is not extended”

Sinn Féin Councillor Conor D. McGuinness has said that Government inaction has led to Waterford students and their parents handing over thousands of euros for accommodation they are unlikely to use and extortionate fees for a reduced learning experience. McGuinness said:  “It is outrageous that the Government has sat on its hands while hard earnedContinue reading “Government stands by while Waterford students and families get fleeced again – McGuinness”

Léigh an aighneacht anseo

Sinn Féin has hit out at today’s decision by Fianna Fáil*, Fine Gael, the Greens and Independent councillors** to increase the Local Property Tax (LPT) by 10%. Sinn Féin voted to maintain the tax at its existing rate and called for the LPT to be abolished by central government as part of a reform ofContinue reading “Sinn Féin oppose LPT increase for Waterford families”

Sinn Féin Councillor Conor McGuinness has said that instability and a lack of leadership on the part of the Government is causing harm to both the farming sector and the fishing industry.  Cllr. McGuinness said:  “In a period of two months we have seen  three senior ministers in the Department of Agriculture, Food and theContinue reading “Government instability hurting Waterford farmers and fishing industry”

Sinn Féin Councillor Conor D. McGuinness has raised the issue of pregnant women not being allowed to have a partner accompany them to maternity appointments, and called on HSE management to remove the restriction:  McGuinness said: “I have raised this issue with HSE management through the Regional Health Forum, and my colleague David Cullinane T.D.Continue reading “Pregnant women should be allowed bring their partner when attending maternity appointments – McGuinness”

Sinn Féin Councillor Conor D. McGuinness has called on the government to immediately reopen the school bus transport ticket system. Responding to growing frustration of parents across the country, McGuinness said: “The school bus ticket system needs to be reopened immediately. We have a situation where children have no means of getting to school. “ParentsContinue reading “Re-open school transport ticket system immediately – McGuinness”

Sinn Féin Councillor Conor D. McGuinness has said that the new Development Plan for Waterford must not facilitate the imposition of colossal wind turbine structures on rural communities.  McGuinness said: “I have made a submission on wind energy development in Waterford as part of the public consultation for the new Development Plan. I have beenContinue reading “New Development Plan must not force wind turbines on rural communities”

Sinn Féin Councillor Conor D. McGuinness has said that the EU must announce financial support for Irish lobster fishers following a decision by the European Commission to lift tariffs on live imports of US lobster. There is a significant lobster fishery along the Waterford coast that is of regional and economic importance. McGuinness is aContinue reading “McGuinness demands EU supports for Irish lobster fishers”

Sinn Féin Councillor Conor D. McGuinness has said that urgent action is required to address the trip and fall hazards in Grattan Square. He said that Waterford City and County Council must prioritise this remedial work before somebody is left with a serious injury as a result of a fall.  McGuinness said:  “Its very clearContinue reading “Grattan square trip and fall hazards need to be addressed urgently – McGuinness”

Sinn Féin Councillor Conor D. McGuinness has expressed his frustration at the mixed messages coming from Government regarding rapid COVID testing for schools.  McGuinness said: “Ensuring rapid testing for both pupils and staff is absolutely crucial to addressing the real anxieties of parents and teachers and keeping schools open. The Government announced in the nationalContinue reading “McGuinness: Rapid testing essential to keeping schools open”

Sinn Féin Councillor Conor McGuinness has said that the latest homelessness figures show that the housing crisis has not gone away but doesn’t tell the full story when it comes to dysfunction in the housing market and a shortage of affordable houses.  McGuinness said: “The most recent monthly figures released by the Department of HousingContinue reading “Homeless figures point to continued dysfunction in housing – McGuinness”

Sinn Féin Councillor Conor D. McGuinness has expressed his alarm and disappointment that the Taoiseach has signed off on controversial fisheries penalty point regulations without consultation with the fishing industry. Micheál Martin is acting as interim Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine due to his Government’s failure to keep a Minister in that departmentContinue reading “McGuinness: Taoiseach needs to explain rushed imposition of penalty point system on the fishing industry”

Sinn Féin Councillor Conor D. McGuinness has announced details of a state-wide survey of student funding, which is being carried out by Sinn Féin in conjunction with the party’s spokesperson on Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, Rose Conway-Walsh TD.  McGuinness said: “Further and Higher Education must be made accessible and affordable forContinue reading “Sinn Féin launches student funding survey”

Sinn Féin Councillor Conor D. McGuinness has expressed his gratitude to Waterford Council’s outdoor staff for their response during and after Storm Ellen.  McGuinness said:  “Council outdoor staff our in a huge amount of work in theres up to the storm and as it hit our coast. They were instrumental in feeding information back onContinue reading “McGuinness thanks Council staff for Storm Ellen response”

Sinn Féin Councillor Conor D. McGuinness has said that short-term letting through platforms such as Airbnb are distorting the property market in West Waterford and pricing families out of the private rental market.  McGuinness said: “Local families are being priced out of the private rental market in Dungarvan. Over recent weeks I have been contactedContinue reading “McGuinness: Short-term letting pricing local families out of the market”

Sinn Féin Councillor Conor D. McGuinness has criticised the decision not to give a status red weather warning to Co. Waterford ahead of Storm Ellen’s arrival last week.  McGuinness said: “Met Éireann have a difficult and thankless job when it comes to predicting the weather or issuing warnings, however I  believe they dropped the ball lastContinue reading “Storm warning discrepancy leaves workers with dilemma – McGuinness”

Sinn Féin Councillor Conor D. McGuinness comments on a number of violent incidents in Dungarvan during the weekend beginning 14th August. “I have received reports of a number of violent disturbances over the weekend. I do not wish to say anything that could negatively impact on investigation or prosecutions. “Violence has no place on ourContinue reading “McGuinness comments on violence scenes in Dungarvan”

Sinn Féin Councillor Conor D. McGuinness has signalled his concern at a potential increase in dog thefts in recent weeks. McGuinness commended the response of Gardaí and voluntary organisations such as Waterford Animal Welfare for their work in intercepting alleged dog thieves and traffickers.  McGuinness said: “I am deeply concerned by what appears to beContinue reading “Council must cooperate with Gardaí to battle dog thefts – McGuinness”

Sinn Féin Councillor Conor D. McGuinness has sought assurances from Council officials and from all parties that Council spending on housing will be protected in the face of growing uncertainty and risk when it comes to next years Council budget. McGuinness made the comments as Councillors were briefed on risks currently facing Waterford Council. TheContinue reading “Waterford’s housing budget must be protected as Council faces greatest level of financial risk – McGuinness”

Sinn Féin Councillor Conor D. McGuinness has welcomed the projected timeline for a new Development Plan for Waterford. McGuinness has confirmed that the long-delayed review process is underway and that a projected timeline is now in place. The West Waterford representative has been outspoken in his criticism of the failure to develop an up-to-date developmentContinue reading “McGuinness welcomes timeline for new Waterford Development Plan”

Sinn Féin Councillor Conor D. McGuinness has written to the chair of Waterford Council’s strategic policy committee on Environment, Biodiversity and Climate Action requesting work commence on a  dedicated Tree and Biodiversity Plan.  McGuinness said: “Waterford Council has no single policy or plan when it comes to tree management or the protection and promotion of biodiversity.Continue reading “McGuinness reiterates call for a Tree and Biodiversity Plan for Co. Waterford”

Councillor Conor D. McGuinness has welcomed the appointment of a dedicated spokesperson on fisheries by Sinn Féin President Mary Lou McDonald. Sinn Féin appointed Donegal TD Pádraig Mac Lochlainn to the role  of fisheries spokesperson despite the fact that the Fianna Fáil – Fine Gael – Green Party Government have chosen not to appoint aContinue reading “McGuinness welcomes appointment of Sinn Féin Fisheries spokesperson”

Councillor Conor D. McGuinness has said that the failure by the last Government to deliver real affordable homes for working people cannot be allowed to continue under the new administration. The Sinn Féin council group leader was speaking after Fine Gael, Fianna Fáil and the Party voted down a major public programme to build affordableContinue reading “Waterford families ‘hit hard’ by unwillingness to deliver affordable homes – McGuinness”

Sinn Féin Councillor Conor D. McGuinness has said that Waterford has ‘a mountain to climb’ in order to meet increased demand for mental health services due to underinvestment by successive governments in mental health services.  He made the comments as he lent his support to calls from Alone and Samaritans for greater mental health supportsContinue reading “Waterford has ‘mountain to climb’ to meet increased demand for mental health services post Covid-19 – McGuinness”

Sinn Féin Council Group Conor D. McGuinness leader was nominated for election as Mayor of Waterford City and County at the annual general meeting of the local authority. McGuinness was supported by Sinn Féin, Labour Party, Green Party and some Independent Councillors. The vote was 17 – 15 in favour of Fine Gael’s Damien Geoghegan,Continue reading “McGuinness comments on Mayoral election”

Sinn Féin Councillor Conor D. McGuinness has welcomed €1.2 million funding for Cappoquin under the Rural Regeneration and Renewal Scheme. McGuinness had lobbied for this investment at both local and national level.  McGuinness said:  “I am delighted to confirm that the €1.2 million rural regeneration and renewal funding for Cappoquin that Waterford Council applied forContinue reading “McGuinness welcomes €1.2 million Rural Regeneration funding for Cappoquin”

Sinn Féin Councillor Conor D. McGuinness has welcome the decision by Waterford City and County Council to institute free parking at Scanlon’s Yard until the end of July. McGuinness had lobbied Council management to make a concession on parking in the town centre in an effort to increase footfall in Dungarvan and to offset theContinue reading “McGuinness welcomes Council rethink on parking in Dungarvan“

CLICK HERE TO BEGIN SURVEY Sinn Féin councillor Conor D. McGuinness has announced details of an online survey to assess how renters across the State are coping during Covid-19. Latest figures show rent supplement figures increased by 33% during the pandemic. McGuinness said: “The Sinn Féin spokesperson on housing Eoin O’Broin TD has launched anContinue reading “Sinn Féin launch renters’ survey as rent supplement payments increase by 33% in three months”

Conor D. McGuinness has obtained information from the Environmental Protection Agency in recent days that paints a stark picture of unsafe levels of Trihalomethanes in the An Rinn/Heilbhic water supply between the years 2008 and 2018. The water supply was only decommissioned in September 2019.  The An Rinn-based Sinn Féin Councillor said: “Annual water qualityContinue reading “Water supply exceeded safe THM levels for 9 out of 10 years”

Sinn Féin Councillor Conor D. McGuinness has received confirmation that the long delayed County Development Plan review process will begin on 20th July this year. McGuinness has been outspoken in his criticism of the failure to develop an up-to-date development plan over recent years.  McGuinness said:  “Waterford Council is relying on an out-of-date county developmentContinue reading “County Development Plan Review due to commence this July – McGuinness”

Sinn Féin Councillor Conor D. McGuinness has welcomed the recommencement of planning timelines from Sunday 24th May. The resumption follows an eight-week hiatus on foot of orders by the caretaker Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government, Eoghan Murphy. McGuinness said:  “I am glad this order has been lifted and planning timelines can now resume.Continue reading “McGuinness welcomes resumption of planning processes”

Sinn Féin Councillor Conor D. McGuinness has encouraged SMEs in West Waterford to apply for assistance under the Restart grant scheme but warned that inadequate Government support for the sector will results in high unemployment for years to come.  McGuinness said:  “The Restart scheme offers grants of between €2,000 and €10,000 for small and mediumContinue reading “Restart grant scheme welcome but more needs to be done to support SMEs – McGuinness”

Sinn Féin Councillor Conor D. McGuinness has said that serious questions remain over the health impacts of the decomissioned public water supply serving An Rinn, which was finally replaced last year. He raised concerns following a stark warning from the European Commission to the Irish Government over unsafe levels of trihalomethanes (THMs) in public waterContinue reading “Questions remain over health impact of decommissioned water supply – McGuinness”

Chuir an Comhairleoir Conor D. McGuinness fáilte roimh fógra ón Roinn Talmhaíochta, Bia agus Mara go gcuirfidh siad €150,000 ar fáil i dtaobh oibreacha ar Ché Heilbhic. Cuirfidh Comhaire Phort Láirge €50,000 leis an méid seo. Dúirt McGuinness: “Cuirim fáilte roimh €150,000 euró ata fogartha inniu ag an Roinn Talmhaíochta i gcóir Cé Heilbhic chunContinue reading “Fáilte curtha ag McGuinness roimh €200,000 chun tonnchosc a dheisiú i Heilbhic”

Sinn Féin Councillor Conor D. McGuinness has described as ‘worrying’ new economic analysis that shows that Dungarvan and the South East are subject to above average levels of economic exposure as a result of the COVID-19 public health crisis. The data is contained in an economic study commissioned by the Southern Regional Assembly. McGuinness isContinue reading “Economic exposure for South East above state average – McGuinness”

Councillor Conor D. McGuinness has welcomed the publication of tender documents for repairs to the west pier at Cé Heilbhic, which is in need of substantial work to make it safe and fit for use.  The Sinn Féin representative had previously flagged the bad state of repair with the Council and campaigned for works toContinue reading “McGuinness welcomes progress on Heilbhic breakwater repairs”

Sinn Féin Councillor Conor D. McGuinness has said that offshore wind every developments cannot be allowed destroy Waterford’s existing sea fisheries and tourism industries. McGuinness made a detailed submission in relation to the application by Inis Ealga Marine Energy Park Ltd. for a foreshore licence. The West Waterford Councillor said “Ireland needs to move towardsContinue reading “Offshore wind turbines cannot be allowed destroy Waterford tourism and fisheries – McGuinness”

Sinn Féin Councillor Conor D. McGuinness has announced details of a new service for constituents to meet the challenges and changes faced as a result of the ongoing emergency measures. McGuinness will host one-on-one constituency clinics via the online meeting and conferencing app Zoom. McGuinness said: “I am delighted to be able to offer aContinue reading “McGuinness announces details of online constituency clinics”

Sinn Féin Councillor Conor McGuinness and former Councillor Brendan Mansfield are set to lose their beards in aid of Pieta House. The pair will shave their beards at 8:30pm on Friday 8th May, the eve of the annual Darkness Into Light event, which has been cancelled as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic. McGuinness said:Continue reading “McGuinness and Mansfield to lose beards for Pieta House”

Councillor Conor D. McGuinness has welcomed confirmation that the EPA has begun monitoring Dungarvan’s air quality. The Sinn Féin representative had lobbied extensively for Dungarvan to be added to the EPA’s National Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Programme (AAMP) earlier this year.  McGuinness said:  “Air quality monitoring by the EPA has recently begun in Dungarvan andContinue reading “EPA air quality monitoring underway in Dungarvan – McGuinness”

Sinn Féin Councillor Conor D. McGuinness has expressed concerns that the ongoing public health crisis is leading to an increases in domestic violence. McGuinness said: “Organisations such as Women’s Aid and Safe Ireland have pointed to an increase in people accessing their services or calling for advice and support over recent weeks. They are pointingContinue reading “Increase in Domestic Violence due to Covid-19 crisis ‘deeply worrying’ – McGuinness”

Sinn Féin Councillor Conor D. McGuinness has said the European Commission’s proposal for a €80 million aid package for the agri-food sector falls short of what the sector needs as it deals with the economic fallout of the Covid-19 crisis. McGuinness is a member of the EU Committee of the Regions which gives local authoritiesContinue reading “McGuinness: EU agri-food Aid Package ‘falls short’ of sectors needs “

Councillor Conor D. McGuinness has said that Ireland’s fishing industry must not be neglected by the caretaker Government. The Sinn Féin representative has called on the Minister to come up with a comprehensive package of supports for fishermen, the seafood sector, and coastal communities.  McGuinness said: “Its very important that the fishing industry is providedContinue reading “Caretaker Minister must not neglect Ireland’s fishing and seafood industries”

Sinn Féin Councillor Conor D. McGuinness has added his voice to the call for continued public adherence to the emergency measures introduced to slow the spread of the novel coronavirus Covid-19. McGuinness is a member of the HSE Regional Health Forum and has been engaging regularly with regional management and public health officials over recentContinue reading “Onus on everyone to stick with emergency measures – McGuinness”

Councillor Conor D. McGuinness has said that proposals for a fair and sustainable economic recovery made by the Unite trade union demand serious consideration. The Sinn Féin representative made the comments following Unite’s publication of Hope or Austerity, a discussion document outlining a road map for economic recovery post Covid-19. McGuinness said: “Our economy hasContinue reading “Union proposals for economic recovery demand serious consideration – McGuinness”

Tá sé ráite ag an gComhairle Conor D. McGuinness gur chóir moladh a thabhairt do lucht bainistíochta na gcoláistí Gaeltachta as an cheannaireacht chróga atá léirithe acu, go háirithe go háitiúil sa Rinn. Tá cúrsaí samhraidh curtha ar ceal de dheasca na géarchéime sláinte.  Dúirt McGuinness: “Tá sé fógartha anois go bhfuil cúrsaí samhraidh iContinue reading “Tacaíochtaí ag teastáil sa Ghaeltacht agus cúrsaí curtha ar ceal – McGuinness”

Sinn Féin Councillor Conor D. McGuinness has described the response from the Minister of State for Higher Education on the issue of student accommodation refunds as “very disappointing.” McGuinness said: “I have received dozens of calls and emails from worried students and their parents on the issue of student accommodation refunds. Many will have paidContinue reading “Response on student accommodation refunds ‘disappointing’ – McGuinness”

Sinn Féin Councillor Conor D. McGuinness has said that adequate supports need to be put in place to support Leaving Certificate students following the postponement of this year’s exams due to Covid-19. McGuinness has written to the Department of Education requesting the establishment of a dedicated support helpline and counselling service for Leaving Cert students.Continue reading “McGuinness: Dedicated supports must be made available for Leaving Cert students”

The Sinn Féin group on Waterford City and County Council has written to the Mayor and Chief Executive calling for the local authority to meet next month.  Sinn Féin leader on the Council Conor McGuinness said: “The Sinn Féin group of councillors have written to the CEO and Mayor today to signal our strong positionContinue reading “Waterford Council must meet in May – Sinn Féin “

Dúirt an Comhairleoir de chuid Shinn Féin Conor D. McGuinness gur gá acmhainní a chur ar fáil láithreach chun dul i ngleic leis an mbearna in ábhar oideachais ar-líne trí mhéan na Gaeilge. Bhí McGuinness, atá ina chomhalta boird de Foras na Gaeilge, ag caint roimh chruinniú ar-líne den eagraíocht uile-Éireann. Dúirt sé: “Tá athruitheContinue reading “Géarghá le breis achmainní oideachais ar-líne Gaeilge – McGuinness”

Councillor Conor D. McGuinness has suggested that a series of phased ‘open-days’ at the Dungarvan Civic Amenity Site could reward responsible citizens and disincentive those who might otherwise engage in illegal dumping. The Sinn Féin public representative has been consistent in challenging illegal dumping and has campaigned for harsher sanctions and increased enforcement efforts onContinue reading “McGuinness calls for civic amenity site ‘open days’ to address spike in illegal dumping”

Sinn Féin Councillor Conor D. McGuinness has welcomed the Hardhsip Grant for those ‘cocooning’ and has encouraged eligible people in West Waterford to apply. The grant of up to €500 is administered by the Irish Red Cross and Age Action and seeks to respond to the immediate needs of older people that are experiencing additionalContinue reading “McGuinness ecourages greater take up of €500 grant for those ‘cocooning’”

Sinn Féin Councillor Conor D. McGuinness has called for a adequare supports to be put in place to support Leaving Certificate students following the postponement of this year’s exams due to Covid-19. McGuinness has written to the Department of Education requesting the establishment of a dedicated support helpline and counselling service for Leaving Cert students McGuinnessContinue reading “Put adequate supports in place for Leaving Cert. students – McGuinness”

Sinn Féin Councillor Conor D. McGuinness has said that the Central Bank needs to show leadership to ‘rein in’ bad behaviour by insurance companies at a time of national crisis. McGuinness said: “It can’t be business as usual for the insurance industry while the rest of society and the economy suffers because of the Covid-19Continue reading “Scandalous behaviour of the insurance industry needs to be reined in – McGuinness”

Sinn Féin Councillor Conor D. McGuinness has welcomed the plan to allow SMEs that are hit by the COVID-19 crisis to defer payments of commercial rates to local authorities for a period of three months. McGuinness had called had earlier called for a commercial rates ‘holiday’ for the hospitality, tourism, retails and SME sectors forContinue reading “Commercial rates ‘payment holiday’ welcome but more needs to be done for SMEs – McGuinness”

Sinn Féin Councillor Conor D. McGuinness has called on Waterford Council and Coillte to take steps to ‘lockdown’ popular outdoor amentities as thousands flock to the seaside, forest walks, parks and popular beauty-spots.   “We are in the midst of an unprecedented national and global public health crisis. Its clear that the majority of peopleContinue reading “‘Social distancing’ message still not getting through to some people – McGuinness”

Sinn Féin group leader on Waterford Council Conor McGuinness has called on the government to do more to meet the needs of renters who have lost their jobs and who are struggling with high rental costs. Emergency rent supplement, rent reductions and rent waivers must now be firmly on the government’s agenda as Minister EoghanContinue reading “Robust measures necessary to help private renters affected by COVID-19 pandemic – McGuinness   “

Sinn Féin Councillor Conor D. McGuinness has said that he and his colleagues remain available despite the decision by Sinn Féin to close its constituency offices and postpone advice clinics on foot of advice from the Chief Medical Officer. McGuinness said: “Sinn Féin took a decision late last week to suspend advice clinics, close ourContinue reading “Full service available despite constituency office closures – McGuinness”

Sinn Féin Councillor Conor D. McGuinness has said that Dungarvan is strategically important at national and European level when it comes to the production and supply of paracetamol-based medicines. Avoiding an outbreak of COVID-19 in Dungarvan will be key to maintaining supply chains for Ireland and much of Europe. McGuinness said: “Dungarvan is at theContinue reading “Dungarvan ‘strategically important’ due to production of Panadol – McGuinness”

Sinn Fein Councillor Conor D. McGuinness has highlighted the advice issued by Volunteer Ireland for those assisting in the community in response to the COVID-19 crisis. “There has been a huge response to community requests for volunteers to help more vulnerable or unwell people through this crisis. “It’s important that in volunteering you keep yourselfContinue reading “Follow Volunteer Ireland advice while assisting in the community – McGuinness”

Sinn Féin Councillor Conor D. McGuinness has said that the Government has an obligation to Irish citizens stranded abroad as a result of travel restrictions. McGuinness said: “Travel restrictions and cancellations are coming in thick and fast. I’ve been speaking to worried families here in West Waterford and have received messages from people that areContinue reading “Government must step in for those stranded abroad – McGuinness”

Sinn Féin Councillor Conor D. McGuinness has said that policing will continue ‘as normal’ in the Dungarvan District despite uncertainty caused by the COVID-19 outbreak. McGuinness said: “I spoke with senior Garda management locally to discuss the policing plan for Dungarvan and West Waterford in the wake of Commissioner Harris’s statement yesterday. I understand someContinue reading “Policing ‘as normal’ despite COVID-19”

Sinn Féin Cllr. Conor D. McGuinness has called for a a commercial rates ‘holiday’ for the hospitality, tourism, retails and SME sectors for a prescribed period of time to deal with the increasing hardship that businesses find themselves in as a result of the COVID-19 crisis. McGuinness said: “A number of sectors will face significantContinue reading “Sinn Féin calls for commercial rates ‘holiday’ for SMEs”

Sinn Féin Councillor Conor D. McGuinness has said the ball is firmly in the Government’s court when it comes to dredging the pier at Ceann Heilbhic. He made the comments following a meeting of Dungarvan – Lismore district meeting at which he obtained confirmation that an application for funding has been made to the DepartmentContinue reading “Ball in Government’s court on Heilbhic dredging – McGuinness”

Sinn Féin Councillor Conor D. McGuinness has said that family farms and the Irish agri-food sector must not be made bear the brunt of the current political vacuum. He made the comments in the wake of a series of constructive and detailed meetings between Sinn Féin and the IFA, ICMSA, INHFA, and the Beef PlanContinue reading “Political vacuum cannot be allowed damage family farms and agri-food sector – McGuinness”