Ruairi Quinn calls for closure of FÁS

Labour's Education Spokesman Ruairi Quinn has called for the closure of the State's embattled training and employment department. Minister Quinn said he wanted the funds for its training projects to be redirected to established education. The minister's call comes as it emerged there has been an almost ten month gap since the Government applied for European Social Funds for the State training agency. Following a European Union audit of FÁS last November, the European Commission said that in order to protect taxpayers, it wanted issues to be resolved before further funds were requested or paid. It is understood the problems related to training courses carried out by private operators. The Department of Education said it has until 2017 to make an application for the funds. Speaking on Morning Ireland, Mr Quinn said FÁS was no longer relevant to those who are now unemployed.

Irish Waste Says Council Misled Public On Poolbeg

The Irish waste association has accused Dublin City Council of attempting to mislead politicians and the public over the threat of compensation connected with the Poolbeg incinerator. The Irish Waste Management Association, which represents private waste collectors like Panda, has said the Council needs to clarify why it never told the public about a 'get out' clause contained in contract. RTÉ's Prime Time programme revealed that the contract runs out on Sunday and, if all conditions have not been fulfilled, the Council could extend or renegotiate the deal, or even walk away. The Council has declined to comment, on the basis that the contract is confidential.

Protestors To Rally Against Navan Hospital Closures

A rally in support of Navan Hospital has been announced to take place tomorrow at 1pm outside Our Lady's Hospital. On Wednesday, The HSE had announced that all acute and emergency surgery will cease at the hospital. Deputy Mayor of Navan Peadar Tóibín has said people were rightfully angry at the closing of services. "During the last general election, Minister Dempsey promised to ‘go to the wire’ for the county hospital. Dempsey said a new regional hospital would be built and will provide the type of healthcare Meath people deserve. Those promises like many more have come to nothing." The HSE said the Emergency Department will remain open on a 24-hour basis, but patients who present requiring surgery will be transferred to another hospital in the Dublin North East region. The HSE had said it has taken the decision in the interests of providing high quality service to patients.

(DW/GK)