M J Nolan - Your Carlow TD

03 April 2007: Carlow apprenticeship schemes to benefit from Government funding - Nolan

Apprenticeship schemes in Carlow are to benefit from significant Government funding according to local Fianna Fail T.D., MJ Nolan.

"Apprenticeship schemes are to be revised and developed and funding of EUR372,378 is being allocated to Carlow Institute of Technology to implement these changes.The changes are being brought in following consultation with FAS who have overall statutory responsibility for the apprenticeship training programme and other stakeholders."

"The funding will cover the costs of new modern facilities and equipment and training of lecturing staff. The apprenticeship programme covers 26 registered trades, ranging from electrical and mechanical training to plumbing and construction and comprises seven phases of training involving both on-the-job and off-the-job training."

"It is essential that the curricula is revised and kept up to date to reflect changing technology and work practices. The number of register apprentices is currently at an all-time high. Our apprentices go on to be craftpersons of the highest caliber and it is vital that we give them every practical support possible," concluded Deputy Nolan.

27 March 2007: FF to bring about greatest equality ever for income earners - Nolan

Fianna Fáil's ground breaking move to cut inequalities out of the Irish personal tax system has been strongly welcomed by Fianna Fail T.D. for Carlow, MJ Nolan.

"The Taoiseach's announcement on Saturday night that he will introduce further progressive tax reforms weighted in favour of average and middle income earners and families is another major step forward on the tax front. We are proposing to abolish the ceiling whereby no PRSI is paid on income over EUR49,000. In doing this we will also halve the full-rate PRSI from 4% to 2%. At the moment somebody earning EUR50,000 a year pays the same amount as somebody earning EUR500,000."

"Fianna Fáil wants to take inequalities out of the personal tax system and this measure will achieve that. As a result of our reforms, all workers will pay a fair share of PRSI."

Other specific proposals include:

Continued indexation of credits and bands.
Cuts in the rates of Income Tax. We will cut the standard rate by of income tax by 2% to 18%. There will also be a cut in the higher rate by 1% to 40%.

"Furthermore over the next five years we also plan to double the Home Carer Tax Credit. This is to be implemented across the five-year term of a government. Average earners will see gains of between EUR1,200 per year for a single person and EUR2,100 for one income families."

"Very top earners, single earners on above roughly EUR250,000, will get no benefit or pay slightly more. These proposals are far more progressive than those endorsed by Labour and Fine Gael, delivering between EUR600 and EUR1,350 more in relief per annum for average earners and delivering substantially less for the highest earners."

"It is more comprehensive, dealing with all the key elements of personal taxation, rather than isolated issues. The fact is that Fianna Fáil is the party of tax reform and reduction and this is a continuation of our unequalled record. Since 1989 the basic rate of tax has come down 15 percentage points, from 35 pc to 20 pc. All but one of these reductions occurred when Fianna Fáil was in office."

"It is the next step to making our tax system fairer and more progressive," concluded Deputy Nolan.

05 March 2007: Rural business opportunities in Government Bioenergy Action Plan - Nolan

The Bioenergy Action Plan launched by the Government at the weekend will provide entrepreneurial opportunities in rural communities, according to Fianna Fáil TD for Carlow, MJ Nolan.

"The Bioenergy Action Plan launched by Minister Noel Dempsey provides many entrepreneurial opportunities for people in rural communities in Carlow. The cultivation of fuel-producing crops is soon to become a big business as a result of the Government's commitment to increase renewable energy levels in transport, heat, and electricity."

"Those in the agriculture industry should look to bio fuels as a potential new source of income. An extension of the deadline for receipt of applications under the Bioenergy Scheme was also recently announced by the Minister for Agriculture. Applications for pre-planting will now be accepted until March 30 2007."

"The scheme offers establishment grants for up to 50% of the costs associated with establishing miscanthus and willow for use as a renewable source of energy. Farmers can receive up to EUR1,450 per hectare towards establishment costs. The Bioenergy Action Plan looks to an Ireland with a greater reliance on bio-fuels by 2020, with one in eight houses and businesses to be powered by solar or wood chip energy."

"By 2009 it is hoped that all petrol and diesel will run partially on biofuels cutting CO2 by 770,000 tonnes a year. All new public buses will also run on biofuel blend. Bioenergy can provide a continuous and predictable clean energy source that has enormous potential for reducing Ireland's dependency on fossil fuels. Farmers and people in rural communities in Carlow should look to this industry for job creation opportunities, and business development," said Deputy Nolan. For immediate release

07 March 2007: New tax rules to benefit former Sugar Beet growers in Carlow - Nolan

The Government has just approved new changes to the 2007 Finance Bill to ensure that former beet growers will not pay any additional tax on the compensation they receive as a result of the closure of the sugar beet industry in Ireland according to Fianna Fail Carlow, T.D. MJ Nolan.

"Up to now farmers' representatives had made a case that the full compensation payment to former beet growers, which is due to be paid this year, could place some farmers into the income tax net or place other farmers into the top tax rate who would normally not be paying the top tax rate."

"This new measure by the Government this week will prevent this happening. Even though farmers will receive the full payment in one year they will be allowed spread it for tax purposes in their accounts over a six year period to ensure they don't pay any extra tax on this compensation payment."

"This special amendment approved by the Government in recent days will be of assistance to the hundreds of farmers in Carlow who grew sugar beet over the years but have now ceased this activity as a result of the closure of the sugar beet factories. I am pleased that the Government has listened to the very specific case made in relation to this once off situation and they responded in a very positive manner," concluded Deputy Nolan.

8 March 2007: Nolan meets Coughlan on inspections issue ahead of EU Council Meeting

MJ Nolan, Fianna Fail T.D. for Carlow last night met with the Minister for Agriculture, Mary Coughlan, in advance of next week's EU Agriculture Council. The meeting, which was also attended by Chairman of the Oireachtas Agriculture Committee, Deputy Johnny Brady, focused on the issue of on-farm inspections.

"I impressed upon the Minister the importance of her again raising the farm inspections issue in Brussels next week.This is a European Union diktat and we must keep the pressure on at that level for a change in the system. The current drive for simplification of the CAP provides an opportunity to get the inspections issue sorted one and for all."

"The Minister will be meeting EU Agriculture Commissioner, Mariann Fisher Boel, and the EU Agriculture Council President, Germany's Horst Seehofer, at the Council meeting. She is continuing to gain support around the table for her stance on the issue, but the pressure must be maintained. Carlow farmers accept that they must have inspections, given the funds paid under the Single Farm Payment to farmers in the county last year. What they rightly object to however is an inspector arriving at their farm gate without any notice whatsoever."

"While it is true that the overall number of inspections has fallen from 18,000 to 8,000 in the past two years, farmers feel under continual fear because of the possibility of a no-notice inspection, as currently demanded by the EU.It is only right, just and proper that a minimum period of notice be given before an inspector visits a farm."

"This is a very real issue of concern for our farmers and it must be pushed at the highest political level within Europe. Next week's EU Agriculture Council meeting provides an opportunity to continue the push for change to the system. The Minister recognises that unannounced inspections can cause undue stress and anxiety for farmers and has been clear in her commitment to arriving at a situation where we would have a full and proper notice prior to an inspector's arrival on farm."

"The Minister's approach is a sensible one, particularly given the number of part-time farmers we now have. It is also one firmly in the best interests of Carlow farmers and farm families trying to earn an honest living without unnecessary stress and anxiety," conclude Deputy Nolan.

08 March 2007: Nolan urges O'Cuiv to consider Carlow for pilot night-time rural transport scheme

Fianna Fáil T.D. for Carlow, MJ Nolan has urged the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, Eamon O'Cuiv, to consider Carlow as a location for one of the pilot night-time rural transport scheme which are to commence in the next month.

"I have been vocal about my support for a night-time rural transport scheme from the out-set and I strongly believe that Carlow is a perfect location for one of the pilot schemes. The Minister has said that this scheme will be community-driven and will not be profit-based."

"The shape of the scheme will be decided by the RTOs or LEADER partnership companies. It will not be driven by vested interests. I am glad that the pilot schemes will run for 12 months, because the true worth of the scheme will be obvious in a year's time."

"This scheme will be as useful to young people going to youth clubs as it is to people who want to go for a drink or two at the weekends. It will not be a free-for-all. The Minister has stressed that it is his intention that those who can afford to pay for the service, should pay. The scheme is specifically designed to cost the State less than the current rural transport programme."

"People living in rural areas of Carlow would stand to benefit enormously from the introduction of this pilot scheme, and I will continue to fight for Carlow to be included in the initial scheme," said Deputy Nolan.

08 March 2007: Planning deadline for farm waste management scheme must be extended - Nolan

Farmers must be given more time to get their planning applications together for building works under the Farm Waste Management Scheme, according to Fianna Fáil T.D. Carlow, MJ Nolan.

"In the past few days, I met the Minister for Agriculture, Mary Coughlan TD, to outline to her the problems that farmers in Carlow are experiencing in making the March 31 deadline. By that date, farmers must have the full details of their planning applications supplied to the Department of Agriculture under the popular Farm Waste Management Scheme."

"The scheme has been such a success, with the 60pc or more grants available that agricultural advisors, who help farmers with their plans, are struggling to get through the workload. As a result, farmers are at risk of loosing out by not having their planning applications in by the current deadline."

"I've therefore asked Minister Coughlan to extend the deadline by three months. I've been supported in my call by fellow members of the Fianna Fáil parliamentary party. Farmers and planners should be given another three months to get their planning applications together."

"This would, I believe, be a fair compromise and bring the submission deadline into line with the Department's final date for the alteration of plans already submitted or approved. Some 705 Carlow farmers have applied under the scheme for new on-farm facilities."

"Such new facilities should not be rushed however. What's essential is that they're both designed and constructed correctly and in full compliance with planning and environmental considerations. Every farm is different so planners and architects should be given enough time to get each farmer's planning application correct."

"Minister Coughlan listened carefully to what I had to say on the matter and I believe she understands the problem. As a result, I'm hopeful that there may be some movement on the end-March deadline. I'd still urge farmers in Carlow to get their planning applications completed and submitted to the County Council as soon as possible," said Deputy Nolan.

12 March 2007: Government Policy to lead to lower electricity prices - Nolan

The Government is to introduce structural changes in the electricity sector that will lead to lower prices for Kildare consumers according to Fianna Fail T.D. for Carlow, MJ Nolan.

"Energy costs are to be reduced for Carlow consumers as the best possible conditions for competition and customer choice in the Irish energy market are to be delivered. The White Paper entitled "Delivering a Sustainable Energy Future for Ireland" has just been launched and it is a practical action-based strategy for achieving a new energy future for Ireland ."

"Structural changes in the electricity sector are going to be introduced and this will encourage investment for existing companies and new ones. Increased competition will reduce the cost of electricity and offer greater choice for consumers. In order to facilitate new this, a land bank of power generation sites will help independent electricity generation, the ESB's market share will be reduced and transmission assets will be transferred to EirGrid."

"Security of the electricity supply is vital and the development of the Single Electricity Market on an all-island basis and the building of new electricity interconnection North/South and East West with the UK will contribute greatly to this objective. The Government is also committed to a radical energy efficiency programme that will reduce harmful emissions and contribute to our efforts to combat climate change while also cutting costs for everyone." "These changes will better position the ESB, both nationally and internationally, maximize opportunities and meet challenges in the new energy markets in Europe. Consumers will benefit from the strengthening of EirGrid which will be able to carry out its strategic mandate in an independent, fair and transparent manner to meet the highest international standards."

"Everyone in Carlow will benefit from this new energy future. Delivering a sustainable secure and competitive energy future for Ireland is a priority for this Government," concluded Deputy Nolan.

06 February 2007:Response to the repayment scheme for older people in residential care encouraging - Nolan

Over 24,000 forms have been submitted to the HSE as part of the Health Repayment Scheme for older people in residential care, according to Fianna Fail T.D. for Carlow, MJ Nolan.

"The response to the Health Repayment Scheme has been very encouraging so far. The Scheme was set up to repay monies paid by those in publicly funding nursing homes. Over 24,000 forms have been submitted to the Scheme Administrator applying for repayments. These applications are currently being processed."

"The timeframe of when the repayment will be made is dependent on whether the person applying is still living. Priority is being given, quite rightly I feel, to those who are still living. It is estimated that there are 14,000 applications from those who are still living in nursing homes."

"Arrangements have also been place for those vulnerable people who through illness or disability are not capable of making an application themselves. Repayments have started already and will continue on an on-going basis and it is expected that the bulk of payments will be made in Spring. Applications for repayment can be made up to January 2008 to ensure that everyone affected has an opportunity to apply."

"There is now a very clear framework to repay everyone who was wrongly charged for publicly funded long-term care. I would urge anyone who thinks they may qualify to contact the HSE on the dedicated phone number 1890 886 886 that is open from 8am to 9pm Monday to Saturday or at the dedicated website,

8 February 2007: Decentralisation on track as Minister visits Carlow - Nolan

Decentralisation for Carlow is on track according to local Fianna Fail T.D. as he welcomed the Minister for Enterprise Trade and Employment, Micheal Martin to the town.

"I am delighted that decentralisation is on track and that the Minister has come to Carlow today to officially turn the sod on our new offices for decentralised civil servants. The original timescales for decentralisation were ambitious but I am delighted that Carlow has been prioritised and it is full steam ahead."

"Almost 300 posts from the Minister's own Department of Enterprise Trade and Employment have been identified as 'early movers' to Carlow. The Office of Public Works identified a site for the new decentralised staff and I am delighted to welcome the Minister here to officially recognise beginning of construction phase."

"Construction may take up to 24 months but we are on the right track. In order to accommodate staff who wish to move earlier than the projected building completion date, work is ongoing to enable the movement of some decentralising staff to Carlow during the first half of this year. It is expected that 100 staff will have decentralised by this June."

"Decentralisation is key element to create employment and growth in Carlow and I will continue to monitor progress," concluded Deputy Nolan.

17 February 2007: Carlow youth clubs and groups to benefit from Government funding - Nolan

Twenty-five youth clubs and groups in Carlow will benefit from funding from the Dormant Accounts Fund according to local T.D. MJ Nolan.

"The twenty-five youth clubs and groups will each receive varying amounts of funding. This funding is a vital part of the support we give youth groups and clubs. The grants are mainly for the purchase of equipment such as computer hardware and software, audio visual equipment, pool or snooker tables, or scouting equipment."

"Provision of new equipment for these youth clubs and groups is vital if they are to continue to provide a service for young people in Carlow. The groups that will benefit are:

1st Carlow St. Mary's Scout Group
2nd Carlow Scout Group
3rd Carlow Scout Group
5th Carlow (Town) Scout Group
5th Carlow Tullow Scout Group
Askea Boys NS
Bagenalstown Family Resource
Youth drop in centre Bagenalstown Family Resource
Youth music workshop Borris
Foroige
Dolmen Ladybird Guides
St. Killians Brownie Pack
Irish Girl Guides
Killoughternane Social Club
Leighlinbridge Scouting Group
Muinebheag Community Centre
Open Door CDP
Six Till Late Youth Club
Slaney Valley Centre
Slaney Valley Junior
Sleaty Girl Guides
St. Killian's Guides
St. Killian's Rangers
The Untouchables Youth Group
Tullow Variety Group
Woodland Ladybirds

"Youth clubs are invaluable for giving young people things to do and a place to be and all important peer support at a time that can be very difficult for some young people. Youth leaders often provide a very positive influence in the lives of young people and their encouragement and support can have a knock-on effect in other aspects of the young person's life."

"There is a need to provide additional youth activities and services for young people in Carlow and this funding is a step in the right direction," concluded Deputy Nolan.

20 February 2007: Single Payment scheme to be simplified as farmers apply on-line- Nolan

Carlow farmers will get a boost a simplified Single Payment Scheme according to local Fianna Fail T.D. MJ Nolan.

"The Minister for Agriculture has indicated to me that her Department is now making arrangements to allow farmers to apply on-line for the Single Payment Scheme. This will assist farmers in reducing their paper work and make it convenient for them to file the necessary paper-work. The on-line facility is open to farmers and their agents, who can register for on-line services with the Department for Agriculture and Food."

"Farmers who want to submit their applications for Single Payment Scheme should register as soon as possible. More than 8,000 farmers have already registered indicating that the on-line system is user friendly and effective. The Minister has been consistent in her support for the simplification of the Single Payment Scheme since taking office in 2004."

"The Minister and her Department have raised the raised issues concerning inspections, advance notice and tolerance on several occasions with the EU Commissioner several times, most recently at the January EU Council of Ministers meeting when several Ministers backed the call for simplification. I look forward to the Commission's proposals which are due within the next couple of months."

"While certain legal requirements must be fulfilled and proper controls and accountability are vital, it is also essential that the paper-work burden currently experienced by Carlow farmers is reduced. The 18,000 inspections a year under the old coupled system are now a thing of the past. Now, 8,000 inspections are carried out under the decoupled system. Yet Carlow farmers still have concerns regarding the Single Payment Controls.

"Farmers and farming families form the backbone of Carlow, and this Government is determined to do all we can to give practical support to them," concluded Deputy Nolan.

20 February 2007: Carlow to get boost with major expansion of Garda CCTV Systems

Carlow is to benefit with a major expansion of CCTV for the town centre, according to local Fianna Fail T.D., MJ Nolan.

"Garda authorities in Carlow have been authorized to seek requests for tenders to install CCTV for the town. The tenders are expected to be issued by the end of February and work on installing the CCTV cameras should follow immediately. Modern technology like CCTV is vital in assisting the Gardaí to keep the streets safe."

"CCTV increases public confidence and makes people feel more secure when they are out. CCTV provides a strong deterrent to criminals and assists An Garda Síochána in the fight against crime. This investment in Carlow town will have great benefits for those who live, work and socialize there," concluded Deputy Nolan.

21 February 2007: Public sector to lead by example by becoming more energy efficient - Nolan The public sector is to lead by example in becoming more energy efficient according to Fianna Fail T.D. for Carlow, MJ Nolan.

"At the Fianna Fail National Youth Conference, An Taoiseach spoke on the issue of the environment and how the public sector will be required to lead by example in conserving energy and going green. Lighting in offices, schools, hospitals and other public buildings will have to be energy efficient. All street lighting and traffic lights should also switch to an energy efficient system."

"It is only right that the Government is compelling the public sector to become more energy efficient. It will not only help to protect the environment, but will also save money. The 'Power of One' campaign run by the Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources has displayed the effectiveness of seemingly small measures on conserving energy."

"Moving public sector buildings and street lighting to energy efficient bulbs is a small way of making a big impact," concluded Deputy Nolan.

27 February 2007: Mandatory retirement is 'ageist' - Nolan

Mandatory retirement is 'ageist' and should be abolished to make the most of our older generation, according to Fianna Fail T.D. for Carlow, MJ Nolan.

"There is no greater symbol of ageism in action than forced retirement. Ageism is something we must tackle. I have raised the issue with the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Micheál Martin when he visited Carlow recently. The suggestion that as soon you as you reach a certain age, you have to leave the workforce is ridiculous."

"We need to be flexible on this. Age is just a number, not a cut-off point. Age cannot be a demarcation point at which we decide whether or not a person can make a worthwhile contribution - irrespective of ability, experience and knowledge. We also ought to bear in mind that when the retirement age was set at 65, life expectancy was not as great."

"Since the foundation of the State, life expectancy has risen markedly. For men, it has increased by about 15 years and for women, an even more marked increase of over 20 years. Now I welcome the fact that maximum retirement ages have been abolished in most areas of the public service but I believe we need to go further."

"I would like to see all private companies follow this policy. I want retirement at 65 to become the exception not the rule. I want to see this happen by consent and not force but I believe it will be good for older people and good for Ireland. Older people have a lot to offer and it is time we made use of that. This is still a young country by European standards but that will change in the coming decades."

"We need to change our mindset and our work practices and let older people make the contribution we know they can," concluded Deputy Nolan.

01 March 2007: Funding boost for Carlow childcare - Nolan

Young families in Carlow will benefit from Government funding for childcare according to local Fianna Fail T.D., M.J. Nolan.

"Childcare facilities in Carlow will benefit from substantial funding issued under the National Childcare Investment Programme. Forward Steps in Tullow will receive EUR35,000 and Little Buddies in Ballinabranna will get EUR100,000. This constitutes an investment of EUR135,000 in Carlow children."

"High quality childcare provides choices for parents allowing them to return to work or study while children are young. Provision of high quality, regulated, reliable childcare is a priority for this Government. The funding will help to grow and develop these childcare facilities providing better environments for both staff and children," concluded Deputy Nolan.

02 March 2006: More seats on train to Carlow with purchase of new railcars - Nolan

Carlow commuters look set to benefit from purchase of new rail cars, according to local T.D., MJ Nolan.

"I was delighted to be told by the Minister for Transport that Carlow is to benefit from a EUR78million investment in railcars as part of Transport 21. I met with the Minister to review the plans for the new rail cars this week. Funding has been approved for the purchase of 33 intercity railcars by Iarnrod Eireann which will make a significant improvement to the capacity of the commuter route from Carlow."

"The new railcars will arrive next week from Korea. The Minister assured me that Carlow was a priority for these new railcars. These new railcars will increase capacity on the Carlow route by 40% reflecting population growth in the county and the popularity of rail as a method of commuting to the capital."

"If we are to continue to maximum use of public transport, we need to provide a comfortable, frequent, top class service and these new rail cars will make a very positive impact. I understand that Iarnród Éireann is also looking at opportunities to increase parking spaces at train stations in Carlow and I will be in further contact with the Minister on this issue," concluded Deputy Nolan.

29 November 2006: New school for Carlow will give boost to local children - Nolan

Carlow children are to benefit from investment in a new school building according to Carlow T.D., MJ Nolan.

"My colleague the Minister for Education, Mary Hanafin T.D. has just confirmed that St. Mary's NS in Bagenalstown is to get a new school. I am delighted with the Minister's decision to give the go-ahead for this new school. The new building is especially important for local families."

"The population of Carlow has increased substantially in recent years and we need the extra school places. I know that parents of young children in Carlow are concerned about schooling in the county. Providing top quality educational facilities is a priority for this Government and huge progress will be made on school buildings in Carlow and around the country in the coming years."

"I will be in touch with the Minister to ensure that the work on the new school begins as soon as possible," concluded Deputy Nolan.

30 November 2006: Farmers must apply now for farm waste management scheme grant aid - Nolan

Carlow farmers who wish to avail of grant-aid under the current farm waste management scheme must submit their applications before the end of this year according to local Fianna Fail T.D. MJ Nolan.

"Eligible farmers must contact their agricultural advisor as soon as possible because Christmas holidays may have an effect on last minute applications. Mary Coughlan TD, the Minister for Agriculture has already modified the requirements regarding the submission of applications which involve planning permission."

"In view of the very significant interest in the Scheme, the Minister has concluded that further adjustments to the requirements relating to the submission of applications under the Scheme are necessary. She has introduced administrative changes which will streamline the application process. Officials in the Department of Agriculture have been in contact with the representatives of both private planners and Teagasc to ensure that all applications passed on to the Department by the end of the year will be accepted under the Scheme."

"The Minister has also arranged that any drawings which must accompany the application form can be submitted to her Department by 31 March 2007 provided a completed application form is received before the end of 2006. The new arrangements should result in every farmer having the opportunity to submit an application under the scheme by the end of 2006 deadline."

"Every farmer interested in availing of the generous grants available should make immediate contact with their local planner," concluded Deputy Nolan.

30 November 2006: Largest ever safety campaign prioritising farmers - Nolan

Farmer safety is being prioritised with the largest ever safety campaign which includes a safety pack, dvd and a programme of courses, according to Carlow T.D. MJ Nolan.

"The Health and Safety Authority will distribute packs with information and a dvd on the new Agriculture Code of Practice to Carlow farmers. The pack contains vital information for farmers including the new code of practice for preventing injury, information on occupational ill health, a risk assessment document and copies of a safety Work Plan for farms."

"The packs will be distributed free of charge to farmers through the Department of Agriculture's database of farmers. In addition to the pack, a nationwide programme of courses, "Code of Practice of Accidents and Occupational Ill Health in Agriculture" will be available. We know that this pack and safety programme will be useful for farmers because they were developed in conjunction with farmers themselves."

"Carlow farmers will be well aware of the dangers of farming. So far this year, 17 people have been killed and an estimated 3,000 injured on Irish farms. Safety must be prioritised by farming families and this pack and programme will help to focus minds and efforts."

"One farm death or injury is one too many. Farmers face increasing challenges and this Government is determined to assist farming families in every practical way we can," concluded Deputy Nolan.

13 December 2006: Pets are not just for Christmas - Nolan

Pets given as gifts this Christmas must not be abandoned when the festive season is over according to Carlow Fianna Fail T.D. MJ Nolan.

"This Government has allocated EUR15,000 to the Carlow Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA). This funding is in recognition of the fact that the post-Christmas period is often very busy for Carlow SPCA. Pets given at Christmas, from puppies to kittens to guinea pigs, grow up quickly, needing more food and attention or a trip to the vet."

"All of this can take time and money and the novelty of owning a pet can wear off for children. Every year, pets are abandoned in dust bins or left to fend for themselves on the streets. That's no way to treat animals and I would appeal to people to look after their pets this Christmas. Carlow SPCA do excellent work throughout the county in delivering animal care and welfare services."

"I would like to pay tribute to all involved in Carlow SPCA and, in particular, to the efforts and sacrifices they make in circumstances that are often difficult. I am well aware of the increasing demands on their services and I hope that the financial assistance will be of help to each of them in sustaining their efforts through the coming year."

"I hope the support of the general public will continue and maintain their operations at effective levels," said Deputy Nolan.

14 December 2006: Older people in Carlow to benefit from investment in services - Nolan

Older people in Carlow are to benefit from funds from dormant accounts according to local Fianna Fail, T.D. MJ Nolan.

"Tullow Day Care, who operate services for older people in Carlow are to receive EUR13,000 for the purchase of a mini-bus from the Dormant Account Fund. Supporting and assisting older people in their bid to remain in their own homes and communities is a priority for this government and this funding is vital part of ensuring the independence of older people."

"Older people are a vibrant part of our communities and should be given every support after working to make this country and their communities what they are today. When access to services in the community is improved for older people it can lessen the need to avail of residential care. The provision of a mini-bus for Tullow Day Care should greatly aid their work and be of great benefit to those older people who use the service and potential new clients."

"I know that Minister Ó Cuív intends to submit proposals to Government shortly in relation to Dormant Accounts disbursements for 2007. I will be lobbying the Minister to ensure that groups and organizations in Carlow working to support older people benefit from the dormant account funds," concluded Deputy Nolan.

16 December 2006: Older people to go mobile - Nolan

Older people are to be given the option to use their free landline allowance for pre-paid mobile phones, according to Deputy MJ Nolan, Fianna Fail T.D. for Carlow.

"In November, I appealed to the Minister to consider giving older people in receipt of a free telephone line the option of a pre-paid mobile phone. I am delighted that this week the Minister for Social Affairs confirmed that as of April 2007, older people will have the choice to have their telephone allowance applied to a pay-as-you-go mobile phone. The Minister has recognised the high level of mobile phone ownership in Ireland. Some households now do not even have landlines."

"A cash amount of EUR24.70 per month including VAT will be paid for a pre-paid mobile phone. A pre-paid mobile phone will give older people flexibility and increase their safety. It will also increase peace of mind of the older person, their family and friends. In an age when almost everyone seems to have mobile phones, it is only right that this Government gives that option to older people who receive a free phone line."

"Significant numbers of older people in our communities lead busy and active lives and having the flexibility of a mobile phone will be invaluable to them. This Government has displayed its commitment to older people with significant increases in the state pension, fuel allowances and homecare packages. We are keen to explore additional ways to improve the lives of older people and assist them in their bid to retain their independence and remain in their own homes and communities as they develop additional needs," concluded Deputy Nolan.

20 December 2006: Threat of ban on Irish beef to Russia lifted - Nolan

Russia will not now go ahead with a threatened ban on Irish and EU beef exports on January 1st next, according to Fianna Fail, T.D. for Carlow, MJ Nolan.

"The Russian Government has confirmed that it will not impose a ban on Irish and EU beef exports on 1 January. This was announced following talks which between the Russian Government and the EU Commissioner for Public Health, Marcos Kyprianouin in Moscow. Russian will still impose a ban on EU beef exports from Poland, however."

"Russia is a vital market for Irish beef and a ban on beef exports to that country would have had a devastating effect on Irish farmers. It is Ireland's second biggest market for beef and food exports. The Taoiseach and our Fianna Fail MEPs, Liam Aylward, Brian Crowley, Sean Ó Neachtain and Eoin Ryan were at the forefront to ensure that the interests of Irish farmers were protected."

"The Chair of the Oireachtas Agriculture Committee also requested that the Russian Ambassador to Ireland attend the Committee to explain the situation. We will continue to monitor the situation. While it is good news for beef farmers that this Russian ban will not now go ahead, we need to work in the future to ensure that the threat of such a ban can not be made again," concluded Deputy Nolan.

20 December 2006: Eradication of Brucellosis a realistic prospect - Nolan

Brucellosis levels are now at an all time low and the ultimate goal of eradication is at last a realistic prospect, according to Fianna Fail T.D. for Carlow, MJ Nolan.

"The news for farmers on Brucellosis and TB is good. The Department of Agriculture operates programmes to control and eradicate TB and brucellosis from the cattle herd with a view to protecting public health, improving animal health and meeting EU trading and legislative requirements. These very necessary and comprehensive programmes are costly for farmers.

"In 1996 it was agreed with farming organizations that 50% of the cost of compensation would be met by this government. When the Minister for Agriculture appeared before the Agriculture Committee recently she reported that the incidence of both TB and brucellosis has fallen substantially in recent years following the effective implementation of a range of measures . The total number of animals removed as reactors fell from 49,600 in 2002 to 28,000 in 2005."

"The measures undertaken include pre-movement testing, intensified blood testing of the national herd, cow monitoring at slaughter plants, rapid depopulation and delayed repopulation, the tightening up on illegal cattle movements, the regulation of dealers, prosecutions for breaches and the imposition of penalties for a failure to comply with animal disease and identification regulations. The decrease in cases of brucellosis has been dramatic in recent years from 6,400 blood positives 1998 to just 228 in 2005. It is expected to fall further next year."

"The number of cases of depopulation has fallen from 328 in 1998 to 27 last year and this trend has been maintained into 2006 with only three depopulations. Brucellosis levels are now at an all time low and the ultimate goal of eradication is a realistic prospect. It is essential to retain for now all aspects of the existing intensive programme. In addition, it is extremely important that farmers continue to adopt appropriate replacement policies and implement effective bio-security measures."

"There has been a steady but less dramatic decline in the number of TB reactors from 44,900 in 1999 to approximately 26,000 in 2005. The badger population spreads TB and this makes eradication a bigger challenge but one we are determined to meet. The Department of Agriculture has developed a wildlife programme to remove badgers implicated in TB outbreaks."

"I will continue to monitor the effectiveness of the TB eradication programme and if it is not as successful as it should be, I will be lobbying the Minister for Agriculture to establish a different programme. Disease eradication is vital for farmers and we must do all we can to assist them in protecting their herds and their livelihood," concluded Deputy Nolan.