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Quiet man of Government emerges from the shadows
Quiet man of Government emerges from the shadows

RTÉ News​

time5 days ago

  • Politics
  • RTÉ News​

Quiet man of Government emerges from the shadows

As the fledgling Iran and Israel ceasefire unexpectedly took root last Tuesday morning, a less dramatic act of consolidation was playing out in front of the cameras in Government Buildings. The coalition's leaders hurriedly arranged themselves on the podium in the press centre on Merrion Street to tell the world about a plan to breathe new life into Dublin's O'Connell Street. The event was late getting under way as the Taoiseach explained that the ferociously busy Cabinet meeting had worked through no less than 50 items. Was Micheál Martin suggesting that the "do-nothing Dáil" label which smudged the planned glossy opening act of this Government was now consigned to history? That was the clear inference and amid the spirit of fast-moving newness there emerged from the wings, the politician who effectively leads the Independent ministers in Government. Seán Canney stood with the Taoiseach and Tánaiste in a manner akin to Eamon Ryan's ever-present role in the last administration. The Galway-East TD's prominent public positioning last week was the result of mounting frustration among some Independent ministers and TDs. They felt that the presentation of the Government, particularly by the media, as primarily a two-party entity, was unfair and inaccurate. "There were conversations among a few ministers, and it was decided that we need people to know that there are three and maybe four parts to this Government," said one minister. Others point to what they perceive as an even deeper disregard for some Independent TDs who signed up to the Programme for Government. "They cut us out of the consultative process when making decisions and that led to Barry Heneghan and Gillian Toole voting against them, but it is now sorted, they know we're serious," said one Independent TD. The group has also had its own Deputy Government Press Secretary, Tom Blade, appointed this week. All the while there is an absolute rule across Government that these ministers and TDs must receive information simultaneously with those in Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael. He is a great manager of people and is very structured in his approach, I think he could qualify for a UN role at this stage. If everyone understands their roles better now, there is nonetheless a complicated structure to the Independent's place in the Government. What is beyond dispute is that Mr Canney is the de facto leader of the Independent ministers. Privately he is acutely aware that it is a job which requires the most well-honed of diplomatic skills, given the differing aims of his colleagues and the absence of a political party machine. "He is a great manager of people and is very structured in his approach, I think he could qualify for a UN role at this stage" is how one Cabinet minister sums up the man who first entered politics in the 2004 local elections. Previously, in the 2016-2020 minority government, he exuded restraint when the rotation of the Office of Public Works ministry with Kevin 'Boxer' Moran stalled. Back then the man reared on a farm in Belclare, Tuam, Co Galway spoke about the value he placed on deals reached through a handshake, just like farmers did at fair days. It is a principle that served him well, and he was later appointed to another junior ministry by the then-taoiseach Leo Varadkar. Canney 'knows what he wants' These days Mr Canney attends the agenda-setting pre-Cabinet meeting with the Taoiseach and Tánaiste every Monday night. The 65-year-old, first elected to the Dáil in 2016, is described as approaching those meetings in a calm and good-humoured manner. He is said to "know what he wants" and is "effective". Some even play on his surname and believe he is by nature "quite canny". The former quantity-surveyor, who also lectured in that subject for almost a decade at GMIT, is said to have surprised some in Government with his focus on national issues. He has also impressed those in the Department of Transport where he has set a lofty ambition to reduce driving test waiting times to ten weeks by September. "He really grabbed that one by the scruff of the neck and he is receiving fortnightly reports to ensure that the RSA makes it happen," is the view of someone familiar with Mr Canney's work in the department. Notably, he is understood to have opposed the idea of appointing NAMA boss Brendan McDonagh as the housing czar, during what was a bruising Government controversy earlier this year. "He is very much big picture," said one senior figure in Government Buildings. On Tuesdays, Mr Canney along with Noel Grealish attend Cabinet meetings and also that day, Mr Canney chairs a meeting of the five Independent ministers. Perhaps illustrating his elevated status, he has what no other junior minister possesses, a big office in the main corridor of Government Buildings. "He tells us what's coming up and how things went at the Monday night meeting. It can be a bit challenging for the Independent ministers in government sometimes, but we like challenges," one minister said. Then there is the weekly meeting of the Independent ministers and TDs on Wednesday evenings, a gathering that is chaired by Michael Lowry. Some ministers say they do not always attend and prefer to do "their own thing". Most do participate however, even if there are mixed views on whether or not Mr Lowry is becoming a more peripheral figure. "The 'Lowry Lackeys' jibe hurt a lot, and it is better just to focus on your own work," one of those who worked closely with Mr Lowry in the Government formation talks said. Another Independent TD was more philosophical, saying "he still has access to Government and still gets things done. You can't dismiss a man with that experience". Indeed, it was Mr Lowry who chaired a meeting of Independent TDs and ministers when they met with Minister for Housing James Browne on Wednesday afternoon last. There, the minister explained in broad terms what will be unveiled in the coming weeks to make the building of homes more viable. He also rejected a push from Independent TDs to publish all the new measures in one big plan and insisted that it is more beneficial to keep making changes on an almost weekly basis. There are ongoing battles between Independents and the Department of Public Expenditure over the upcoming review of the National Development Plan (NDP). "It is proving very difficult, but senior ministers from all parties are experiencing the same thing," one Independent minister said. Officially though, there is a vow of silence around these discussions. Again, this week the Taoiseach insisted, in a reply to Labour's Alan Kelly, that "no agreements or lists" have been made with Independent TDs to include projects in their constituencies in the updated NDP. However, no one can deny that Independents now want a more high-profile role in Government, with Seán Canney chosen as the man to lead this charge.

Solar-powered electric vehicle charging hub launched in Galway
Solar-powered electric vehicle charging hub launched in Galway

RTÉ News​

time5 days ago

  • Automotive
  • RTÉ News​

Solar-powered electric vehicle charging hub launched in Galway

A solar-powered electric vehicle charging hub has been launched in Galway City by Mayor Mike Cubbard and Minister of State at the Department of Transport, Seán Canney. The EV hub will offer a reduced charging rate for city dwellers who have no driveways. Taxi drivers and public transport operators will also be able to avail of the discounted rates. The EV hub is the first of its kind in Ireland and is located in Westside, which is a decarbonisation zone in Galway City. Mayor Mike Cubbard commented: "I'm delighted to see reduced cost electric car charging being introduced in Westside - particularly for people living in apartments or with no driveways who would like to switch to an EV, but are concerned about where they could charge their vehicle, or the cost of commercial charging. "Taxi drivers will also be invited to avail of a reduced rate for fast charging their vehicles to support a transition to EV vehicles in the city. The six spaces are fully accessible, so will cater to all mobility users, with significantly cheaper rates available for up to one hour of charging. "This project is a key action in Galway City Council's Climate Action Plan and will play a significant role in facilitating the move to electric vehicles in the city." The Galway hub is the first of four to be launched countrywide, with the others coming on stream in Letterkenny in Donegal, Waterford City and Dundrum in Dublin later in the year. The hubs are being delivered in a partnership between Trinity College Dublin, Atlantic Technological University (ATU), ESB and Enterprise Car Club. Funding is being provided by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland under the SEAI Research, Development & Demonstration Funding Programme 2022. Mr Canney said: "I'm delighted to support the launch of the Westside EV Charging Pilot on behalf of the Department of Transport and ZEVI. "This is a smart and forward-thinking project that makes use of the building's existing electricity supply, along with solar panels and battery storage, to deliver fast and reliable charging for electric vehicle users. "It allows people charge with minimal impact on the local electricity grid, and it creates a convenient neighbourhood charging option for people living nearby or working in the area who may not be able to charge at home. This is the first of several EV charging pilots the department and ZEVI are supporting with local authorities in 2025. "The approach is designed to be scalable and easily replicated right across the country and support other national initiatives led by ZEVI, including the Shared Island Sports Club scheme and national roads/motorway schemes." The hubs will also serve as testing grounds for electric bike sharing and will allow people to try them out before buying one. The hub sites will include an ESB charge station with one e-cargo bicycle, four electric bicycles, and two shared EVs provided by Enterprise Car Club. The e-bikes can be used via the ESB e-Hub app on Android and iPhone. They will require a minimum wallet top-up of €10 to begin using the e-bikes and e-cargo bicycle service. The bikes will use a €1 unlock fee with the first minute free, and after that, the e-bikes rentable for €0.25 per minute and the cargo bicycle for €5 per hour. Both have daily caps of a maximum of €60 per day. Engineer at Galway City Council Colm Shaughnessy said: "Galway City Council is the first public body to provide EV infrastructure exploring solar and battery technology to power electric vehicles. Findings from this pilot will provide much-needed learnings to allow other local authorities and private EV suppliers provide much-needed EV charging without the requirement for large on-grid connections. "In particular, this set-up could be the ideal solution for rural locations where the on-grid capacity is not available for high-powered EV charging infrastructure. Other potential applications of this system include powering supermarket fridges or leisure centre pools, for example - so the learnings of this pilot could have significant impacts in the switch to more sustainable power options." Head of innovation at the ESB Group Donal Phelan, said: "We continuously strive to explore the potential of new technology to achieve ESB's Net Zero by 2040 goal through three key objectives: decarbonising energy, building resilient infrastructure and empowering customers to live more sustainably." He added: "Our commitment to sustainability and innovation is at the heart of this e-mobility hub pilot. Working with key partners to deliver this pilot ensures that we are collectively working towards a cleaner, greener, and more connected urban future."

Lack of catering services on Irish trains 'unacceptable', Seanad told
Lack of catering services on Irish trains 'unacceptable', Seanad told

RTÉ News​

time6 days ago

  • Business
  • RTÉ News​

Lack of catering services on Irish trains 'unacceptable', Seanad told

Ireland is currently the only country in Western Europe that does not provide catering services on all train routes, a politician has claimed. There has been an absence of trolley services on the majority of Iarnród Éireann routes since the catering was stopped during the Covid-19 pandemic. Iarnród Éireann had committed to a full restoration of catering by the end of 2024, however, due to cost issues this did not happen. They were restored on a limited basis, with catering currently available on Dublin to Cork and Dublin to Belfast routes. However, Fianna Fáil Senator Ollie Crowe said this was "unacceptable" as catering is an "essential and basic" part of rail travel. He told the Seanad: "Ireland is currently the only country in Western Europe which doesn't provide catering services - that's not an acceptable standard. "They want to promote public transport and make it more attractive. "We're providing funding to do that in every budget, but at the same time we're providing rail services where people cannot get a tea or coffee, something they were able to do 25, 35 or 40 years ago - it's entirely illogical." "The situation should not be tolerated for this long, and I would urge Government to take action immediately," he added. Minister of State with Responsibility for Road Transport and Rails Seán Canney said Iarnród Éireann had been working hard to restore catering services where possible, however, due to high costs, it could so far only be delivered on a limited basis. He said work was being done to improve catering services at train stations, and that customers were allowed to bring their own food and drinks, excluding alcohol, on board. He said a full tender process was undertaken for catering services across the intercity network, while costs have determined that catering could only be provided on the Dublin to Cork and Dublin to Belfast routes. Minister Canney said Iarnród Éireann is continuing to engage with the National Transport Authority and Department of Transport for scope to secure further funding to widen catering facilities to more routes.

CART Bai: Ireland's second city is getting its own electrified rail line
CART Bai: Ireland's second city is getting its own electrified rail line

The Journal

time18-06-2025

  • Business
  • The Journal

CART Bai: Ireland's second city is getting its own electrified rail line

IRISH RAIL HAS announced plans to build eight new stations and electrify the commuter line in Co Cork to build the county's equivalent to the capital's DART network. Eight new stations will be added at Blarney/Stoneview, Monard, Blackpool/Kilbarry, Tivoli, Dunkettle, Ballynoe, Carrigtwohill West and Water-Rock. The introduction of an electric fleet hopes to reduce current congestion levels and cut carbon emissions from the line. A new depot at Ballyrichard More will be required for these new carriages. 'CART' services or, as Irish Rail calls it, the 'Cork Area Commuter Rail Programme' will operate every ten miinutes across three commuter lines to Mallow, Midleton and Cobh. Advertisement Those three stops are now set to get a facelift to cater for future increases capacity. All stations will also receive upgrades to their accessibility obligations, to make sure passengers gain unassisted access to services. Two of the new stations, Blarney/Stoneview and Dunkettle, have also been identified as stops best-suitable for park and ride services. It is hope that the upgrades will lead to better connections between rail, bus, cycleways and Cork's future Luas line . Members of the public are asked to come forward during one of its seven upcoming consultation events placed around the Rebel county and online . Transport minister Darragh O'Brien has asked the public in Cork to come forward and read Irish Rail's proposals. Junior transport ministers Seán Canney and Jerry Buttimer have welcomed the second phase of Iarnród Éireann's Cork upgrades. Irish Rail boss Jim Meade and the National Transport Authority's investment manager Marcello Corsi have both encouraged the public to engage with the consultation events. Readers like you are keeping these stories free for everyone... A mix of advertising and supporting contributions helps keep paywalls away from valuable information like this article. Over 5,000 readers like you have already stepped up and support us with a monthly payment or a once-off donation. Learn More Support The Journal

'Blueprint' for rural sustainable travel opens in Longford
'Blueprint' for rural sustainable travel opens in Longford

RTÉ News​

time17-06-2025

  • General
  • RTÉ News​

'Blueprint' for rural sustainable travel opens in Longford

A transport project in Longford town described as "a blueprint for sustainable transport across rural Ireland" is to be officially opened. The Battery Road project, which has taken two years to complete, sees the creation of dedicated cycle paths and new footpaths. Longford County Council said the 1.3km of cycle track will benefit people living, working and going to school in the area and demonstrates its commitment to providing residents genuine alternatives to car dependency. "The completion of three out of four Pathfinder sub-projects positions Longford as the national leader in active travel delivery, with over €8 million invested in our core cycle network," said Paddy Mahon, Chief Executive of Longford County Council. The Pathfinder Programme is focused on reducing carbon emissions in the transport sector, by enabling the shift to cleaner transport choices. The project was funded through the Active Travel Programme and National Transport Authority. It will be officially opened by Minister of State Seán Canney this afternoon. "Through this project, Longford County Council is demonstrating what can be achieved when there is ambition and a determination to deliver," Minister Canney said. "Today's section represents another important step towards developing the town network" he said "When completed, this network will be an exemplar for others, with learnings that can be replicated through other projects in the county and beyond" he added. Longford County Council Cathaoirleach Councillor Mark Casey focused on the community wellness aspects. "The health dividends for our residents, particularly families in Clonbalt Woods, White Linen Woods, Abbeycartron, Lisbrack and Demesne estates, cannot be overstated," he said. "Children attending St John's National School now have safe, protected routes that encourage daily physical activity. This infrastructure doesn't just move people, it builds healthier communities and gives parents peace of mind," he added.

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