Other News In Brief

Lead Brexit Negotiator To Visit Dublin

Lead Brexit negotiator for the European Union Michel Barnier is to visit Dublin ahead of the UK's planned exit on 31 January 2020.

Sinn Fein MEP Martina Anderson welcomed the news at a meeting in Strasbourg with Barnier as they discussed Brexit, citizens' rights and the need to protect the people of Ireland post-Brexit.

The EU official will also visit Belfast on the upcoming trip.

"I welcomed the confirmation from Michel Barnier that he will visit Belfast and Dublin before January 31," the Sinn Fein MEP said.

John Halligan Retires From Political Life

Independent Alliance junior minister John Halligan has announced he will not contest the General Election and plans to retire from national politics.

The Waterford TD confirmed the news this morning after much consideration and said he has been honoured to spend 30 years in politics.

"I now feel the time is right to start a new chapter and devote more time to my family - my wife, children and grandchildren - all of whom have been an unfailing support to me," Deputy Halligan said.

"It has truly been a profound honour to represent the people of Waterford at both local and national level throughout my career. I have served every single day in public office fighting for what I believed was right and working with determination on behalf of my constituents.

"As a Minister of State it has been my privilege to work alongside Ireland's leading scientists and researchers and to promote our educational institutions and businesses on the world stage.

"I am deeply indebted to my loyal campaign team, who have assisted me in so many ways over the years. I also want to pay tribute to my staff, who went above and beyond in their daily commitment so to assist every single person who came to my office in need of help or support.

"Most of all I want to humbly thank the people of Waterford who have put their faith in me for these past three decades."

Deputy Halligan was first elected to the Dáil as an Independent in 2011.

Investment Welcomed For Enniscorthy Sports Hub

A second phase of development is set to begin at Enniscorthy Sports Hub courtesy of new government investment.

The project was awarded a grant of €300,000 under the Large Scale Sport Infrastructure Fund (LSSIF).

Phase one of the Enniscorthy Sports Hub was developed at a cost of €1 million in 2015, following an investment of €850,000 by Wexford County Council and a supporting grant of €150,000. Works consisted of an all-weather 8-lane world-class running track and in-field facility together with extensive floodlighting and carparking facilities.

Developers will now move forward with Stage 2, which will see the construction of a much-needed sports building on the site, incorporating a sports equipment storage area, changing rooms, toilets, showers and a small staff office. This will enable Enniscorthy Sports Hub to host many track and field athletics competitions and events of regional and national significance. The improved facilities will also support the ongoing work of athletic clubs throughout the county who use Enniscorthy Sports Hub to train and coach their members.

Welcoming the funding Minister Paul Kehoe, TD, said it heralds the dawn of a new and exciting decade for the town and district.



(JG/CM)