Independent Deputy Michael Lowry has confirmed that significant progress had been made in ensuring the future of Tipperary Institute after extensive negotiations with the Minister for Education and Science, Batt O’Keefe.

The Minister has agreed that he would lift the threat of closure of the Institute on the basis of a commitment that Deputy Lowry gave, that the Board of Tipperary Institute would implement reforms and engage with the Department of Education in relation to its long term role and future within the Irish education system.

Lowry has engaged with the Board itself in relation to these points, along with union representatives and the staff directly. (more…)

Independent Deputy Michael Lowry hailed the beginning of works at Nenagh General, in accordance with his agreement with an Taoiseach, as a major step forward for the Hospital, with work on a new endoscopy unit beginning in earnest.

Sanction and funding has also been secured for a new lift system to ensure accessibility to the proposed new surgical theatre suite.

Lowry said, “The sanctioning of funding and the beginning of works is a major step forward in securing the future of Nenagh General Hospital. (more…)

Independent Deputy Michael Lowry has met with IFA President Padraig Walshe and IFA General Secretary Pat Smith in Dáil Eireann to discuss a range of issues regarding agriculture in Tipperary, and Ireland, in general in advance of the upcoming budget.

Among the issues raised was the implementation of a viable replacement for the REPS Scheme, installation aid, falling farm prices and the positioning of agriculture and rural life as an integral part of the recovery of the country.

Of great concern to Deputy Lowry was the fact that by the end of 2009, 10,000 farmers will have completed their REPS 3 plans and have been locked out of REPS 4 since the Minister for Agriculture closed the scheme on 9 July last, with no replacement in place. (more…)

Independent Deputy Michael Lowry has confirmed that arising from last weeks discussions with government, that funding is to be released immediately to begin work on a new endoscopy unit at Nenagh General hospital.

Sanction and funding is now also secured for a new lift system to ensure accessibility to the proposed new surgical theatre suite.

The North Tipp Deputy stated:

“The sanctioning of funding and works is a major step forward in securing the future of Nenagh General Hospital. (more…)