By Kim O'Leary

It's set to be a windy, mainly dry day ahead for Co Kildare with some persistent showers and strong breezes being forecast for later this evening and heading into tonight.

According to Met Eireann, it will be mainly dry for most of the country today with patchy rain/drizzle later on in the day.

Patchy frost clearing. Some hazy sunshine today, but mostly cloudy. A lot of dry weather this morn, but some patchy mist/drizzle likely at times on S & W coasts, with more persistent rain for NW and W later this aft & eve. Highs 6 to 9 degrees, in freshening S to SW winds.

— Met Éireann (@MetEireann) January 30, 2018

This morning patchy frost from overnight will give way to a bright morning, with some hazy sunshine, but more cloud is expected through the afternoon. Top temperatures 7 or 8 C., in moderate southerly breezes.

It will become windy tonight with moderate to fresh southwest winds veering westerly and increasing fresh to strong and gusty before morning. Cloudy for a time, with some persistent rain developing. But clearer, more showery weather will set in later, with some showers before dawn. Lowest temperatures 1 to 3 C., with some frost also in some areas.

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By Kim O'Leary

A Kildare-based climber has been reported missing after becoming unwell on a dangerous Himalyan peak known as 'Killer Mountain', with a search underway.

As reported by Independent.ie, 43-year-old Polish national Tomasz (Tomek) Mackiewicz , who lives outside of Naas with his wife and their three children, was on a climbing expedition with other climbers on Pakistan's Nanga Parbat which is the ninth highest mountain in the world when he got into difficult on Friday 26 January, 2018.

Mr Mackiewicz is understood to have been in a critical condition after suffering from acute mountain sickness due to the lack of oxygen at a high altitude as he was attempting to descend the mountain. He is also believed to have suffered frostbite and snow blindness as he and French climber Elisabeth Revol tackled their descent of the mountain.

The alarm was raised by Ms Revol who managed to contact a Polish rescue team but due to extremely harsh conditions consisting of temperatures as low as -62C and high winds of 80kmh, they were forced to halt the search for Mr Mackiewicz.

A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to pay for a deposit for the rescue helicopter that saved Ms Revol. The private funding is necessary for a recovery mission under Pakistani law, and to also assist Mr Mackiewicz's family which includes wife Anna Antonina and their three young children.

According to the GoFundMe page, Mr Makiewicz is described as an "experienced and well-known climber" who was climbing Nanga Parbat in Pakistan last Friday accompanied by Ms Revol and on the way down from the summit Me Makievwicz became unwell and they signalled for help.

A statement on the GoFundMe page set up to assist in the rescue efforts for Mr Makiewicz and to help his family stated: "The upfront rescue cost was estimated at USD80,000. The climbing community has come together and helped raised funds necessary to pay for the rescue helicopters that ultimately saved the life of Elisabeth on 28/01. Sadly, Tomek who was in critical condition at 7300m as of  the morning of 26/01 was unable to descend lower. The pair did not have a tent and were light on supplies hoping to descend quickly. Deteriorating weather and high altitude made it possible for the rescuers to reach him. Today we are reorienting the fundraising effort to provide for Anna Antonina, the wife of Tomek and their 3 children."

Meanwhile, a friend of Mr Makievwicz, Ludovic Giambiasi, wrote on Facebook: "The rescue for Tomasz is unfortunately not possible - because of the weather and altitude it would put the life of rescuers in extreme danger. It's a terrible and painful time. All our thoughts go out to Tomek's family and friends. We are crying."

The Department of Foreign Affairs has said that  it is aware of the search for Mr Makiewicz and it has said that it is available to provide consular assistance to Mr Mackiewicz's family if requested.

To donate to the GoFundMe campaign for Mr Mackiewicz and his family visit https://www.gofundme.com/rescue-on-nanga-parbat

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By Kim O'Leary

Local Fianna Fail TD, Frank O’Rourke, has been informed that the National Transport Authority (NTA) and Irish Rail have agreed to review their Rail Fleet capacity in light of the increased demand on Co Kildare rail services at peak times.

Deputy O'Rourke said: "Since being elected, I have made repeated representations to have the level of service improved on both our rail and bus routes for commuters in North Kildare.While we have received a commitment that there will be an increase off peak services on both the Maynooth and Kildare Lines, we need increased capacity at peak times. However Irish Rail’s fleet is now at maximum capacity at peak times.”

Deputy O'Rourke said that the NTA and Irish Rail will review their fleet capacity with a view to seeking investment in additional new fleet. He said: "I am hopeful that the procurement of the new fleet, which will increase the train capacity at peak times, will commence this year. We are making progress in relation to our public transport; better bus services are on the way, a Park & Ride is to be provided in Kilcock and an orbital bus route from Naas to Blanchardstown servicing Clane, Rathcoffey and Maynooth will be in place by the end of March.”

“As travelling to Dublin City Centre is becoming more challenging by car, we need to provide additional public transport services. I will continue to make representations to have further improvements put in place,” concluded Deputy O’Rourke

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There was great excitement at the weekend as the Credit Union Schools Quiz took place on Saturday, January 27th in The Westgrove Hotel in Clane and this year’s quiz had a great number of entries with over 30 teams representing more than 15 schools from across the common bond.

Josephine O’Neill, Member of the Board of Directors, presented each of the 4 Members of the winning team in the U. 11’s and U.13’s with a commemorative plaque and €30 voucher, with 2^nd place receiving a €20 voucher each.

Winners, Category A, St. Mary’s NS, Edenderry, Clodagh Hoolan, Abi Dafe, Lorna Cummins, Nishtha Jagili, pictured with Josephine O’Neill of Croí Laighean Credit Union.

Runners-up Prize, Category A, Scoil Naomh Phadraig, Ballybryan, Isabelle Kierans, Sheana Fallon, Meábh Mackin, Tadhg Swaine, with Josephine O’Neill of Croí Laighean Credit Union.

Runners-up Prize, Category B, Scoil Bhride, Croghan, Mark Jenkins, Tiarnán Foy, Ben Kennedy, Bláthnaid Jenkins, pictured with Sheila Flynn of Croí Laighean Credit Union.

Winners of Category B, Coill Dubh NS, Molly Hanafee,, Martha Perris, Rory O’Connell, Niall Leavy, pictured with their teacher Joe Leacey, at the Croí Laighean Credit Union Schools Quiz 2018, Saturday, January, 27, in the Westgrove Hotel, Clane. Photo Tony Keane.

Winners, Category A, St. Mary’s NS, Edenderry, Clodagh Hoolan, Abi Dafe, Lorna Cummins, Nishtha Jagili, pictured with Josephine O’Neill of Croí Laighean Credit Union.

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Photos by Thomas Sutherland

Young Entrepreneurs from across the region, gathered in the Osprey Hotel with Local Enterprise Office Kildare on Friday 26 January, to compete for one of the country’s most coveted titles – Ireland’s Best Young Entrepreneur.

Each young entrepreneur has been supported by their local enterprise office in Kildare, Laois, Offaly and Westmeath. The Regional Finalists have diverse businesses ranging from a brewery; a distillery; a multi-award winning beauty salon; a plastic recycling plant and more.

Joanne Sweeney-Burke, former broadcast journalist, PR lecturer and CEO in various roles addressed the room of entrepreneurs as key note speaker. Embracing the digital age is something that Joanne has done with vigour and passion.  In discussing the opportunity that has been the digital transformation curve, Joanne insists that “Digital and social gives you and your business a global marketplace into which any business can scale.”

IBYE Regional Finalists: Matthew McCann awarded Best Idea, Kildare Mayor Cllr Martin Miley Jnr, Deputy Mark Heydon, Deputy Fiona O'Loughlin

In building a business each entrepreneur has worked diligently to identify and capitalise on what sets them apart from others - their competitive advantage. Specifically, competitive advantage is a set of attributes that add value and allow you to outperform your competition. It’s no wonder why competition and entrepreneurship go hand-and-hand. Competition and Entrepreneurship were the order of the day.

The search has been underway to find Ireland’s best young entrepreneurs of 2018! The first stage was a county-based competition which led to the naming of the Best Young Entrepreneur in each county. This stage also included bootcamps and mentoring programmes designed by each Local Enterprise Office. Next, 8 regional finals have now taken place, where 93 County Finalists completed for a place at the National Final in May in Google.

The regional winners, announced by Head of Enterprise, Jacqui McNabb and Mayor Martin Miley were:

Best New Idea: Matthew McCann, Access Earth, Kildare

Best Start-Up Business: Ciaran Gorman, Bevcraft, Westmeath

Best Established Business: Eoin Bara, Arderin Distillery, Offaly

Celbridge’s Matthew McCann has Cerebral Palsy and using a rollator to get around he has personal experience as to what it means for a restaurant or hotel to be accessible to anyone with a mobility impairment. Access Earth  allows users with a disability to find and book a hotel or restaurant without worrying about accessibility.

Matthew has been invited to present at the United Nations ZeroProject Conference on Accessibility in February as one of the top 5 Innovative Practices chosen from over 300 entries.

“Our search to find and support Ireland’s best young entrepreneurs, which started last September, has turned up some incredible business talent. Our local entrepreneurs are the business leaders of the future and the entrants in the competition have all shown innovation and drive. After a very successful bootcamp, County Final and now Regional Final, the Region will be proudly represented by Matthew McCann in the ultimate stage of the competition – the IBYE National Final in March.”

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By Kim O'Leary

A two-day blood donation drive is to commence in Kildare Town today, and it is being hosted by the Irish Blood Transfusion Service.

The blood drive is set to take place in the Educate Together National School, Melitta Road, Kildare Town with donations being accepted from 5pm to 8.30pm. The clinic will also take place tomorrow at the same time.

Those wishing to donate blood must be over 18 and they may be asked to provide I.D. such as a passport or a drivers licence.

Many Irish hospitals are also seeking those with O- blood type due to recent shortages and those with this blood type would be very welcome to attend.

For more information visit www.giveblood.ie

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The position of a new CEO is being advertised for Kildare and Wicklow  Education and Training Board following the resignation of its Chief Executive, amidst a storm of controversy.

Before Christmas, a new  Chair Noel Merrick and Vice Chair John McDonagh, took over from the resigned Chair Cllr Jim Ruttle and Vice-Chair Brendan Weld.

The CEO Seán Ashe has  retired  after telling board members on October 6 that he would step down on December 31. His announcement  to retire came just days after the Government launched an investigation into the body following an audit by the Comptroller and Auditor General of the board’s accounts.

Public Accounts Member Sinn Féin Deputy Mary Lou McDonald has questioned Mr Ashe on the reasons for his sudden announcement to retire.

He said: "It is for personal reasons."

Now Mr Ashe's job is up for grabs.  The KWETB caters for 23,000 students across Kildare and Wicklow.

As the largest education provider in counties Kildare and Wicklow, the ETB provides education and training opportunities for life-long-learning through ETB Community National School, Second Level Schools,  Post Leaving Cert Courses(PLC),Adult Further Education  and Youth Support Service.

Education and Training Boards (ETBs) are statutory bodies which were established under the Education and Training Boards Act 2013 to replace Vocational Education Committees and to take on an enhanced role in the delivery of training.

The role of the Chief Executive of the Kildare and Wicklow ETB includes responsibility for the leadership, management and direction of the ETB and being accountable to the Board for the overall performance of the organisation. The Chief Executive will be responsible for ensuring the provision of the many and diverse services and activities of the Board.

The successful candidate will have:

• Excellent strategic leadership, management and organisational skills, including demonstrating strong leadership in an organisation or sector undergoing major change;
• A proven track record in implementing governance and performance management and an ability to manage financial and staff resources;
• Excellent interpersonal skills with an ability to build effective relationships with internal and external stakeholders;
• A clear vision for the development and delivery of educational and training services;
• A minimum Level 7 qualification on the National Framework of Qualifications or equivalent or a recognised teaching qualification

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By Kim O'Leary

TD for Kildare South, Fiona O’Loughlin has criticised the figures released to her through Parliamentary Question from the Minister for Health.

The figures released indicated that there were almost 30,000 people on waiting lists for outpatient appointments across Tallaght Hospital.

Deputy O’Loughlin said, “These figures are simply not good enough. To have 26,808 people on waiting lists for outpatient visits and a further 4,176 patients waiting for in-patient/day care appointments. The Government must step up and address the chronic waiting lists within our hospitals. A lady from Kildare contacted me only last week to say that she has already been waiting four years for an appointment with a consultant and the appointment she has received it for almost a year away- this is shocking and degrading to the people of Ireland. Another constituent from Newbridge was waiting over 12 months in chronic back pain for an appointment to meet a spinal consultant in Tallaght."

Deputy O'Loughlin said that there are many cases across Kildare and the country where people do not have sufficient access to healthcare. These are just two of many cases across Kildare and across the country of people not having sufficient access to healthcare.

Deputy O'Loughlin said: "Our healthcare system is not working and the government must address it for the greater good of the healthcare professionals that are doing a fantastic job given the supports they have and for the greater good of the people requiring medical attention."

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Co Kildare residents who want to meet new people while tasting a wide range of traditional Chinese food now have the option of a cheap night in Naas.

Frank, an entrepreneur living in Kill, is just after introducing the concept to Fate Chinese Restaurant, Naas.

The father of one, married to a Chinese woman, became passionate about traditional Chinese food, while he lived there for three years.

Moving back to Co Kildare, he realised that getting traditional Chinese food was not so easy.

One year ago, he set up the Chinese Food Tour in Dublin.  There are now over 120 members of the Meet Up group.

Last Friday evening, I joined Frank, the organiser and 12 other people to dine on traditional Chinese food from the North.

It was a truly cultural experience, savouring authentic and tasty Chinese dishes in the beautiful setting of Fate Chinese Restaurant.

The table was laid out with a splendid array of tasty dishes.

We all got to savour the flavours and true tastes of Northern China.  There was green beans, tofu, diced potatoes, fried peanuts and duck in rich, dark sauce.

Book a Chinese Food Tour with Frank in Naas for €26. He also has plans for corporate Chinese Food Tours at a cost of €35.

Keep an eye on his Facebook and Instagram page for upcoming events.

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Photos from Tidy Towns Networking meeting held at Kildare County Council on Thursday 25th January last which was a great event for all involved in the Tidy Towns community.

Dr Christopher Boylan, former Tidy Towns adjudicator gave a very comprehensive presentation on analysis of last year’s results.

Congratulations to Ms Brenda Cleary, Timolin Tidy Towns winner of 1 ½ hour Sallins cruise for a family of 4 (Grand Canal Cruising, Sallins (www.bargetrip.ie)

1st prize went to  Ms Brenda Cleary, Timolin Tidy Towns winner of 1 ½ hour Sallins cruise for a family of 4 (Grand Canal Cruising, Sallins (www.bargetrip.ie)

John Keegan, Eddie Donovan, Straffan Tidy Towns, Cora Dempsey, Kildare County Council., Rose Donovan, Straffan Tidy Towns, and KCC Tidy Towns Ambassador Johnny Doyle, at KCC. Tidy Towns Network Meeting, Áras Chill Dara on Thursday last, 25 January

KCC Tidy Towns Ambassador Johnny Doyle with Joan Kerr, John Walsh, Liz McDonnell, Kill Tidy Towns, and Cora Dempsey, KCC

KCC Tidy Towns Ambassador Johnny Doyle, with Michelle and Martini O’Neill, Allenwood Tidy Towns

Joe Boland, Kildare County Council with Denis and Samantha Hogan, Coill Dubh Tidy Towns, and KCC Tidy Towns Ambassador Johnny Doyle, at KCC’s Tidy Towns Network Meeting in Áras Chill Dara last week.

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This morning in Tallaght,  Garda Drugs and Organised Crime Bureau, along with the armed support unit,  carried out searches that have resulted in a number of arrests.

The arrests follow from a number of burglaries in the Limerick area.

Two men (60s and 20s) were arrested in connection with these investigations are currently in custody in Roxoboro Rd Garda Station and Bruff Garda Station.

Investigations are continuing.

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A Valentine's Day Dance is being held at a Co Kildare Community Centre in a bid to raise funds for a leaking roof.

On Wednesday, February 14th, live music will be performed by Adrian Ryan at Monasterevin Community Centre, in a bid to raise vital funds for a new roof.

The centre is currently still under refurbishment, with works ongoing for the past 18 months.

Lions Club member, Dick Somers, is part of the fundraising committee, said: "The centre was in a very delapidated condition, it has been painted, it is looking great, but we still have a problem with the roof, it is leaking."

Mr Somers estimates that the roof repairs at Monasterevin Communty Centre  will cost about €25,000.

On Valentine's Day, there will be a fundraising dance at the cost of €10 per ticket.

Each lady will be given a red rose while there will be tea and coffee available for everyone.

Monasterevin Community Centre holds a wide range of activities on a daily basis.

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The death has occurred of Gavan MCGUIGGAN
Greenhall Upper, Ballymore Eustace, Kildare

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The Curragh is delighted to announce today that Dubai Duty Free has agreed to extend their sponsorship of the Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby for 2018. The race takes place on Saturday 30^th June as the highlight of the three day Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby Festival.

The world’s most successful airport retailer has sponsored Ireland’s premier race since 2008 having initially commenced it’s partnership with the County Kildare venue in 2002.  Dubai Duty Free are only the third commercial sponsor of the race following the Irish Sweepstakes and Anheuser-Busch/Budweiser.

The 2017 running of the Group One Classic, won by Capri, was officially the highest rated race in the world for three year olds and in the top 10 of the overall world’s best races of 2017.

The total value of the 12 furlong contest will be €1.5 million with prize money distributed to the first eight placed horses with the winner receiving 870,000 euro. Dubai Duty Free will also sponsor five other races on the day.

The Curragh will again partner with Dubai Duty Free to offer “Free Entry” to the winners and placed horses of a variety of races leading up to the race, in which the entry fee will be refunded as applicable.  This initiative was launched for the first time in 2015.

Derek McGrath, CEO of The Curragh said: “Dubai Duty Free have been outstanding partners of the Curragh and I would like to acknowledge the significant contribution that Colm McLoughlin and his team have made to the success of the Irish Derby over the past ten years.”

Colm McLoughlin, Executive Vice Chairman and CEO of Dubai Duty Free said: “We are delighted to extend our partnership with the Curragh for 2018 and happy that our association with the Curragh has grown over the years. The Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby is now a weekend festival of quality racing and entertainment and the media exposure generated greatly raises the profile of our brand in Ireland.”

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A Co Kildare man is appealing for someone to take responsibility for rats infesting homes.

Seán Bawn, lives with his wife, at Roseberry Hill, Newbridge. They are deeply concerned that rats now can be seen in some homes and heard in the attics.

He said: "In the past couple of months, it has got really bad. There is an uncomfortable feeling when you know there is something in your attic."

Mr Bawn says that he has seen rats droppings in his neighbour's homes and has seen rats wandering around outside his home.

He said: "We like the area, but this is upsetting."

Mr Bawn has concerns that the sewerage system is leading to the rats problem and is calling on someone to take responsibility.

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By Kim O'Leary

It's set to be a wet and cold night ahead for Co Kildare with temperatures expected to plunge to between 1 and 3 degrees, with the risk of hail and sleet on higher ground.

Tonight will be breezy with rain spreading eastwards and then clearing to scattered showers overnight, some heavy in the north with a risk of hail and sleet. Cold with lowest temperatures of 1 to 3 degrees, with frost in places and a risk of icy patches.

Tomorrow the morning will start off cold, bright and blustery on Wednesday with scattered showers, some heavy and of hail or sleet, with a risk of thunder. High of 4 or 6 degrees but feeling colder in a fresh to strong and gusty westerly wind.

If you have a story or want to send photos or videos to us please contact the KildareNow editorial team. via our Facebook, via our email at content@kildarenow.com or on 045 409350 during office hours.

Local bands and musicians got together at the weekend to hold a fundraising gig for a Newbridge family who unfortunately lost their home before Christmas due to a devastating fire.

Newbridge natives Fergie Hughes and his son Dillan lost their Alaskan log-cabin styled home and all their precious possessions in the fire which occurred on Friday, December 8. The family had constructed the home themselves, taking at least three years to finish it.

On Friday 26 January, local bands and musicians performed their songs in Studio One at Silken Thomas to help raise funds to support the Hughes family.

Photos by: Pat Tinsley

Connie Hennessy and Olivia Ryan.

Ray Maloney and Linda Heffernan.

Aishling Ryan and David Hickey.

Alexandra Radzisz,Weronika Chrzanowska and Magsi Seaszdyk.

Pauric and Linda Carter.

Noel and Kathleen Thompson Broughall.

Lisa Kirwan,Shirley O'Leary and Liz Fagan.

Aoife Scanlon and Briona Byrne.

Anthony Whitely,Aaron Dunne,Dylan Hughes,Redmond Scales and Patrick Murphy.

Tom McCormack and Gerry Ryan.

Fergie,Dillan,Sabrina and Lee Hughes.

Guest singer Arlene Bailey.

Shay Molloy and Glen O'Connor.

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By Kim O'Leary

This gorgeous property in Kilcullen would be ideal for those seeking extra space outdoors and the potential for future expansion as this property boasts 2 outbuildings including a barn and sheds with an asking price of €495,000.

Maura Donohoe Auctioneers is delighted to present new to the market “Liffey Glade”, Kinneagh, Kilcullen, Co Kildare, a lovely bungalow with extension situated on c.2 acre site of professionally landscaped gardens and outbuildings.

Inside the property consists of 5 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms (including master en suite and family bathroom), an entrance hall, sitting room, lounge, kitchen/breakfast area, and a formal dining room.

Outside the property is approached through a tree lined avenue tarmacadam driveway with entrance gates providing ample parking space, professionally landscaped gardens to the front and rear of the property, as well as outbuildings including a barn and several sheds which could be converted if desired.

The property boasts a prime location, it is peaceful and private and it is close to the local amenities of the surrounding towns of Kilcullen, Newbridge, and Athgarvan with access to the M7 and M9 motorways for those who have to commute. Local amenities include GAA, rugby, soccer, hockey, leisure centre, horse riding and racing to name a few.

This stunning property would make an ideal home for those seeking extra space and tranquility as well as easy access to the local amenities.

Early viewing of this dream home is highly recommended and for more information and 39 images visit  http://www.daft.ie/kildare/bungalows-for-sale/kilcullen/liffey-glade-kinneagh-kilcullen-kildare-1524477/

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A Co Kildare based woman who returned from running a business abroad to be close to her grandchildren now finds herself unable to find somewhere to rent.

Jayne Whelehan(62), who recovered from cancer two years ago, is currently sleeping on the couch in her daughter's Kildare town home.

She has been residing with her daughter, her son-in-law and grandchildren, since November last, when her landlord made the decision to increase her rent by €100 a week. When she informed him that he legally can only increase the rent  by 4%, he told her that he was going to sell the property.

Ms Whelehan, originally from Dublin, moved to Lanzarote after separating from her husband. There she ran a pub for about six years.

However, she made the decision in 2012 to return to Ireland and began to rent in Kildare town.

Recently she has been granted Housing Assistance Payment, to supplement her rent.  Numerous attempts to find a one bedroom apartment or house- share have proven fruitless.

She said: "I want somewhere quiet to look at TV and read a book. I don't mind so long as they are not pot-heads or alcoholics."

The Housing Assistance Payment (HAP) is a form of social housing support for people who have a long-term housing need. HAP will eventually replace long-term Rent Supplement.

Under the scheme, local authorities pay landlords directly. The rent being charged for the accommodation must be within the limits set down for the household type in that local authority’s area. Tenants pay a weekly HAP rent contribution to the local authority, based on their income and ability to pay.

stock photo

If you have a story or want to send photos or videos to us please contact the KildareNow editorial team. via our Facebook, via our email at content@kildarenow.com or on 045 409350 during office hours.

If you have a story or want to send photos or videos to us please contact the KildareNow editorial team. via our Facebook, via our email at content@kildarenow.com or on 045 409350 during office hours.