SDLP raise concerns over toxic plant

This week the SDLP in Strabane have raised concerns over the presence of Giant Hogweed along public walkways and riverbanks.

Following on SDLP Representative Liam Stewart said “This issue was brought to our attention when a number of Strabane locals approached our office with concerns of their own. They made us aware that while out walking they had come across Giant Hogweed in a number of areas, most frequent of these was along the riverbank, and were concerned due to the toxic nature of this plant.”

“Following an investigation it was discovered Giant Hogweed is what’s known as a phototoxic plant. Its sap can cause severe skin inflammations when the skin is exposed to sunlight or to ultraviolet rays. Initially, the skin colours red and starts itching. Then blisters form as it burns within 48 hours. They form black or purplish scars that can last several years. Hospitalisation may be necessary. Presence of minute amounts of sap in the eyes can lead to temporary or even permanent blindness.”

SDLP Councillor Patsy Kelly continued saying “We in the SDLP felt that, in the interests of health and safety, that the relevant authorities take urgent action to get these plants removed. Many people in Strabane take advantage of the natural beauty along our public walkways, and we believe that this should not be spoiled by the presence of a toxic plant. We have reported this to Strabane District Council and would urge haste in removing this danger.”

"We are happy to confirm that following representation the Giant Hogweed is now a priority for Strabane District Council, and will be dealt with as soon as possible."

BYRNE PRESENTS PETITION TO ASSEMBLY ON RURAL SCHOOLS

On Monday of this week Joe Byrne, SDLP MLA for West Tyrone, presented a petition to the Assembly on behalf of rural schools in the Castlederg/ Newtownstewart areas. The three schools involved are Envagh Primary School, Dregish, Model Primary School,Newtownstewart and St Francis of Assisi Primary School, Drumnabay.

Speaking in the Assembly, while handing in the petition, Mr Byrne said that:

“Uncertainty hanging over these schools needs to be clarified so that parents and staff are assured of the department’s position. The 105 criteria of pupil numbers has left many parents in a dilemma not knowing what the future holds for their local school. The 105 pupil numbers requirement is forcing some parents in rural areas to consider sending their children to a bigger school which they think might have a sustainable future.”

“The Campaign Group for these rural schools are concerned about the Draft WELB Strategic Area Plan proposals for the Western Board Area and the effect these proposals will have on all of the rural schools and the communities that they support. They believe that rural schools are the focus of their communities and that any proposals that would involve any change need to be thoroughly investigated before any action is taken.”

“As an MLA for West Tyrone’ I have attended a number of public meetings about this schools issue in Omagh and Strabane districts. Many local rural communities that have a small rural school are deeply concerned and fearful about the future of their small rural primary school. The reality is that the local primary school is at the heart of the community, and indeed could be described as the ‘heartbeat of the community’.  John O Dowd, the Education Minister, must be more definite and clear-cut in having a small schools policy which reflects rural proofing as outlined in the DARD White Paper on rural communities”.

‘Finally, it is crucial that the CCMS, the WELB and the Department of Education work closely to protect our rural primary schools and ensure the viability of rural communities into the future.”

KELLY: NATIONAL TRUST MUST RECONSIDER ‘INFLEXIBLE APPROACH’

SDLP Councillor Patsy Kelly has questioned the inflexible attitude of the National Trust after a busload of tourists was turned away from Gray’s printers this weekend.

Mr Kelly said:

“I am deeply disappointed that a busload of tourists was turned away from Gray’s printing press this weekend because they hadn’t given two weeks’ notice of an intention to visit the National Trust site. Gray's teas room which is attached to Gray's printing press provides a very welcoming space for visitors and has also missed out on tourist's visits.

  

“We should be sending out a clear message that the North is a welcome place for tourists and open for business. Instead we have a strict adherence to rules by the National Trust which defies belief.

“In this part of the North we can be very proud not only of the historic Gray’s printing press but also President Wilson’s homestead, both of which hold a great interest for tourists.

“I would ask the Minister for Culture, Arts and Leisure to explain why Strabane seems to being placed in a second class position when it comes to tourism, and in particular in light of an inflexible approach from the National Trust towards the area.”

Byrne: Commitment to the A5 of utmost importance

SDLP MLA for West Tyrone and Vice Chair of the Assembly Agricultural Committee Joe Byrne has expressed his concern that some parties may resign from their collective commitment to the A5 Project. 

Speaking after yesterday's Assembly debate Mr Byrne said:

"I put down the amendment with the express intention of ensuring renewed executive commitment to the A5 project. It remains that the road is of crucial importance on a number of fronts. It is noteworthy that subsequent to the St Andrew's agreement this major flagship peace dividend project was earmarked as a national primary route for joint Government support and action. 

"The people of Donegal, Derry and in my own constituency of West Tyrone view this project as evidence of a firm commitment to peace. It is therefore extremely disappointing that Sinn Fein, the DUP and The Alliance Party may possibly renege on previous commitment to what is an essential project. Further delays and obstacles should not be considered given that the habitats directive requirements are being implemented.

"The purpose of the amendment was to ensure that the £113 million that was earmarked for the project would not return to the Treasury; it is important that the funds are reallocated with the greater public interest at the forefront. One possible project that satisfies these criteria is the A32 'umbilical cord' road between Omagh and Enniskillen. This road needs improvements along certain sections and is particularly relevant as it is an important corridor for health provision.

"I have worked consistently for the vital improvements needed for the A5 for 25 years. It is my hope that the Parties in the assembly will hold steady in their commitment for the road and eventually it will be delivered."

SDLP backs petition calling on the UK Government to introduce a new Meningitis B vaccine

This week the SDLP in West Tyrone has fully backed the petition calling on the British Government to introduce a new Meningitis B Vaccine, to prevent the disease from claiming further lives.

West Tyrone SDLP MLA Joe Byrne welcomed Marie and Sean Devine from Strabane to Stormont, and commended the hard work by all involved in bringing this issue to the British Government. Mr Byrne said “This has not been an easy journey for both Marie and Sean following the loss of a loved one. Following the tragic circumstances surrounding Terri’s passing, I can only commend the determination and courage shown by all involved, in handing in the ‘Time for Terri’ petition calling for a vaccine to be introduced. “

“Meningitis and septicaemia affect around 3,600 people in the UK and Ireland annually and meningococcal B disease is responsible for the majority of cases of disease in the UK and Ireland. These diseases can strike anyone without warning, killing one in ten, and leaving a quarter of survivors with life altering effects as severe as deafness, brain damage and loss of limbs. As a parent myself I couldn’t imagine the heartache of losing a child to this terrible disease.”

“We in the SDLP are in full favour of this petition and I would strongly urge action from the British government to prevent further loss of life. What a great way to celebrate Terri’s life, by ensuring that this disease does not claim more innocent lives.”

Kelly : DRD need to fund North West cycling infrastructure

SDLP Strabane Councillor Patsy Kelly has called on the Minister of Regional Development for greater promotion of cycling in the North West. 

Cllr Patsy Kelly said; “Cycling is becoming a very popular recreational activity in Northern Ireland. Cycling is one of the easiest ways to fit exercise into your daily routine, because it’s also a form of transport which is free. Not only does it save you money, but helps to get you fit and is good for the environment.

“Cycling in the North West is perfect way to see Ireland, as you pass through several different countries and through the towns of Strabane, Omagh, Enniskillen and Sligo. Our existing cycle paths are mostly traffic free and they utilizes the beautiful country roads surrounding our towns.

“I am calling on Minister of Regional Development Danny Kennedy for investment to be put into promoting the potential for cycling in the North West. Increased investment and promotion for cycling in the North West will have a positive impact on tourism and job opportunities in the areas. 

Kelly : Strabane needs a one way traffic system

SDLP Strabane Councilor Patsy Kelly has called on the  Minister of Regional Development for introduction of a one way traffic system in Strabane town Centre.

Councilor Patsy Kelly: Bringing in a one way system would greatly improve the traffic flow around the town centre. Residents have been contacting our office to express their concerns around a number of bottleneck junctions within Strabane, Bridge Street and Railway Street have been highlighted as problem junctions. 

“When you have serious congestion within a town centre, then this has a knock-on effect for local businesses. Through trade lost because of customers or staff stuck in traffic jams or customers being put off coming into town altogether. Additional to this there has been problems with number of cars parked within the town, which at peak times make it difficult for drivers to negotiate. 

“Introducing a one way system will focus on reducing congestion around Strabane, allowing for more free-flowing traffic and helping to encouraging more use of public and sustainable transport. I call on the Roads Service and Minister Danny Kennedy to take urgent action to address the congestion problems in Strabane, before it gets any worse.