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International Mayo Day 2018 – Toronto By Mary (Conlon) Kelleher of Derrycastle, Kilkelly, County Mayo

hree years ago, International Mayo Day was formally announced as the first Saturday in the month of May. It’s a day when people with roots in County Mayo celebrate their history and their homeland from their new homes across the globe. In Toronto the annual Mayo dance always happened on that date, but this year the Toronto Mayo Association decided to do something different to celebrate. A bus tour was planned around the city of Toronto followed by a meal at Quinn’s Steakhouse in the heart of the city. True to Irish form, the weather didn’t comply and the wind chill was frigid so the bus tour was skipped and the party moved straight to the steakhouse.

Mayo Association of Toronto President Valerie (Rowland) McLoughlin from Bellacorick, Erris said, “It’s hard to imagine that International Mayo Day has only been in existence for three years. It feels like it has been around forever. That may be because wherever the people of Mayo go, they add something to the culture and energy of a community. That is very true of the Mayo people here in Toronto. We are fortunate to have an amazing group of people who relish the opportunity to get together and reminisce.” We will never forget where we came from and the beauty of the culture, music and people of Mayo. We are so thankful that our Mayo community continues to shine strong here in Toronto. This is the Mayo Day poem that Peter Costello wrote and sent to me. There is a day that all the Irish, do celebrate each year For Patrick’s Day is famous, in countries far and near Nations all around the world, do flock to join the scene And just for one day only, the world it does turn green Well listen all you Mayo folk, for I have news for you Our days for celebrating, have just risen to two You can now add to your calendar, the first weekend in May From zero 15 onwards, we will have a Mayo Day. There are Mayo folk all over, right across the earth They will celebrate in New York, in Adelaide and Perth In Boston and Toronto, in Darwin and Dubai In Dublin and in London, the green and red will fly They will sing and dance in Yukon, and in far off Timbuktu They will sip a drop of Guinness, and taste some Irish stew They will raise their glass in Paris, in Beijing and in Bali They will wear the county colours, and enjoy our Mayo Day. When Mayo people gather, anywhere around the globe They will speak of Cong and Westport, Castlebar and Ballinrobe Croagh Patrick will be talked about, and its lovely ocean view And Connaught Final Sunday, will get a mention too While they socialize in Melbourne, they will talk about Blacksod And of fishing on the river Moy, with the fishing line and rod They will reminisce of Achill, of Clare Island and Clew Bay They will contact friends and family, on this special Mayo Day.

The Mayo Association of Toronto group in front of the Toronto sign at Nathan Phillip’s Square celebrating International Mayo Day 2018.

We are proud of where we come from, we will celebrate as one We will organize a party, and go out and have some fun It’s a day when all us Mayo folk, at home and far away Will wear the county colours, and enjoy our Mayo Day. (www.reasons4rhymes.com – by Peter Costello) CELTIC CANADA | WINTER 2018

Season’s Greetings!

Beannachtaí an tSéasúir!

Eleanor Reynolds Publisher/Editor ECG www.ellie-corp.com Sales, Marketing & Creative Direction Graphic Design Prism Studios Advertising & Design Inc. Contributors Rick Frayne James Burt Rachael Hopwood Shauna Dickson Coliin Barry Siobhan (Kelleher) Kukolic Heather McCormac Desmond Devoy Paul Loftus Rory O’Donovan Mary (Conlon) Kelleher Advertise Now Visit: www.celticcanada.com Email: info@celticcanada.com Call: 416-845-9900

hat a wonderful year it has been!! This issue has been lots of fun and we have encountered exciting moments which we are delighted to share with you and hope you enjoy reading. Celtic Canada was thrilled to get a chance to chat with Natalie MacMaster & Donnell Leahy as they take to the road and travel across Canada with their Celtic Family Christmas Tour.. both shared from the bottom of their hearts how they got into this wonderful world of music and what passions brought them together..seven children later they are now touring Canada bringing Celtic music coast to coast… The Scottish Company have made your gift giving easy this year with some great choices sure to be a stocking stuffer or perfect gift for under the tree!! Are you dreaming of a Canadian white Christmas? If so, head for the mountains of British Columbia where you’ll find the magical alpine resort of Whistler. Bursting with festive cheer and an abundance of snow-filled fun, there’s something for all ages and interests on and off the Whistler slopes. Explore the land that inspired Outlander on this epic, 12 day Outlander tour of Scotland. See where Outlander stars, such as Sam Heughan (Jamie) and Caitriona Balfe (Claire), shot their scenes at Outlander filming locations from season 1, season 2 and season 3 and visit Outlander book locations. Along the way you’ll also explore historic attractions with real-life Jacobite connections, where you can delve into the true story of the Jacobite cause. Irish Design have featured Irish Style and are taking a look at the trends coming out of Ireland this winter that are sure to impress and help you collect a whole new aesthetic for your wardrobe. For families everywhere, Christmas can feel like a whirlwind of shopping and spending. But, long after the last perfectly wrapped gift has been opened, it’s the memories of time spent with family and friends in this special season that remain as our real ‘gift’s’. Happy Christmas & every good wish for 2019!!! Nollaig Shona agus Athbhliain faoi Mhaise Duit.

Articles for submission Visit: www.celticcanada.com Email: info@celticcanada.com Subscribe Now Online: www.celticcanada.com Facebook www.facebook.com/celticcanada1 Twitter @CelticCanada Disclaimer: Opinions or viewpoints expressed herein do not necessarily reflect those of Celtic Canada and/or ECG. Where materials and content were prepared by persons or entities other than CC/ECG, the said other persons and /or entities are solely responsible for their content. We reserve the right to edit all submitted articles prior to publication.

Come join us!! Are you a member of a Celtic club or institution? Why not drop us a line. Are you in charge of a special Celtic event? Let us know. Do you own a Celtic business or provide a service that you would like to share with the 9 million Canadians claiming Celtic Heritage? Advertise with us. If it’s Irish, Welsh, Scottish, Breton or Cornish, we want to know about it. If you have a Celtic related story, interview, review or production, we want to see it. Together we can build the most comprehensive multi-media platform for all things Celtic in Canada. Please join us on the journey.

CELTIC CANADA | WINTER 2018

A Chairde I

t is my pleasure to send Christmas greetings to all readers of Celtic Canada and to the Irish community across Canada. Christmas is a season of celebration, and also a time when we look back on the year which is almost past. For all of us in the Embassy of Ireland, it has been an exceptionally busy and productive year, in which we have welcomed visits by eight members of the Government of Ireland to Canada. This unprecedented level of political and diplomatic activity over the past two years reflects the importance which the Irish Government attaches to our contemporary relationship with Canada – more Irish Ministers have visited Canada in the last 18 months than in the previous seven years combined! This surge in engagement has been driven both by opportunities and challenges. These include the new trade and investment opportunities arising from the EU-Canada CETA Trade Agreement, as well as the disruption caused by Brexit and the NAFTA renegotiations which has conversely served to draw Ireland and Canada closer together in an uncertain world. As a result, 2018 has seen continued strong growth in trade, investment and tourism between our two countries. 2018 was a landmark year in the IrelandCanada relationship, not only because of the

high tempo of Ministerial and other visits, but also because a new diplomatic Consulate General opened to the public in Vancouver this year. This marked the first expansion of Ireland’s permanent diplomatic presence in Canada since 1939, and will greatly increase our capacity to serve the growing community in Western Canada. The IDA – Ireland’s investment promotion agency - will also be opening an office in Toronto early next year, joining Enterprise Ireland and Tourism Ireland in supporting the continued growth of the Ireland-Canada trading relationship. Underpinning all of this are the strong bonds of history and friendship which have bound our peoples together for centuries past. Today as before, Canada remains a firm friend to Ireland and a country where Irish people have always found a warm welcome and a home away from home. In the course of my work which takes me all over Canada, I have had the pleasure in 2018 to meet so many Irish people and Canadians of Irish heritage from the Yukon to Newfoundland, and from Inuvik in the NWT to Cornwall near the US border. I am proud of the

valuable contribution that our community continues to make to this great country of Canada, and I look forward to meeting many more of you in the years to come. To those of you travelling home this holiday season, Anne and I wish you a safe journey and an enjoyable time spent with family and friends. Happy Christmas and best wishes to all of you for 2019. Nollaig Shona agus Ath-bhliain faoi Mhaise Daoibh go leir! Jim Kelly Ambassador of Ireland

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Ireland Braces for Brexit, as Sinn Fein Urges Canadian Support By Desmond Devoy

he British voted to leave Europe, but the Irish question has everyone scrambling. As Britain edges ever closer towards what will either be their date with destiny, or disaster, March 29, 2019, the day they are due to leave the European Union, no other European nation has more at stake, apart from Britain itself, than Ireland. Not surprising then that Sinn Fein is using a well-known tactic that has helped it so well in the past with other issues such as The Troubles or Irish independence drumming up support, and drawing, and keeping, attention, over in North America. Which is why David Cullinane, a Sinn Fein TD from Waterford, found himself at a table at The Heart and Crown pub in the Irish Village corner of Ottawa’s busy ByWard Market on the afternoon of Wednesday, Oct. 3. On this cool, overcast day, the former Irish senator takes off his glasses and rubs his eyes deeply, awaiting the start of the interview. He has good reason to. Earlier in the day, he had met with members of the Canada Ireland Parliamentary committee on Parliament Hill, as well as senators and MPs from all major parties. He also met with Hassan Yussuff, leader of the Canadian Labour Congress. That very evening, Cullinane flew to Toronto to help launch the James Connolly Irish Canadian Labour Coalition in Toronto, alongside fellow Irishman and trade unionist Sid Ryan, originally from Dublin. “We are coming to a crunch,” said Cullinane after ordering, having stressed the “the significance of Brexit,” to his Canadian counterparts earlier. “Irish issues are still not resolved,” such as a hard or soft border, with the Democratic Unionists holding firm that they will not countenance any border that would see Northern Ireland continue on within the European Union, and see any kind of border in the Irish Sea, 6

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between the North and the rest of Britain. The hard border is one of Cullinane’s three red lines, if you will, “critical elements” on the Irish question, as is the possible future of the Good Friday Agreement, and the rights of Irish citizens living in Britain. As Britain lurches closer to March 29, there is concern that “11th hour talks,” might see Irish issues given short shift. “The Irish issues had to David Cullinane, a Sinn Fein TD from Waterford, stands in be resolved a lot earlier,” said Ottawa’s busy ByWard Market on the afternoon of Oct. 3, Cullinane. at the intersection of Clarence Street and Parent Avenue, While the British cabinet has with the Peace Tower of Parliament Hill just over his shoulder, and the American Embassy on Sussex Drive in voted that the status of Irish the background. Photo Credit Desmond Devoy people living in Britain will not change after Brexit, there are still only was the agreement agreed to by voters European issues that remain for on both ends of the island, but that about these Irishmen and women, living not 56 per cent of the North voted to Remain just in mainland Britain, but in the North within the EU. too, such as, will they be able to access the “The Democratic Unionists want a European Court of Justice, or, how will Brexit,” he said. “(But) they are only one they access healthcare while travelling voice.” elsewhere in Europe? Indeed, they were the only major As for the border, “any hardening of the Northern party to campaign for a Leave border would be a massive step backwards,” vote back in June of 2016. said Cullinane. “Keep the border open.” While Irish people both north and There have been ideas that technology south are aware of the importance of could keep the border open and freeBrexit - with the Republic’s October budget flowing, but Cullinane only sees a future of even earmarking 60 million euros for “more bureaucracy,” if some solution is not Brexit-related supports for the agricultural found. “It’s not even clear if it is an option,” sector - the issue is “more relevant…along he added of the “fantasy politics,” dreamed the border (counties)” like Monaghan, up by some hard Brexiteers. Donegal, and Louth. “They lived through As for the Good Friday Agreement, the hard border. They understand the while Democratic Unionist leader Arlene dangers of it.” Foster is adamant that it can be amended, Brexit also has “an economic impact Cullinane disagrees, pointing out that not across the island.”

But Sinn Fein does not appear to want to turn back the clock. With support growing for a second Brexit referendum, especially amongst members of the British Labour Party, Cullinane said that “we respect the vote,” on Brexit, back in 2016. “Before we start talking about a second referendum,” he said he wants to see the issues like the border resolved first - and besides, matters like new Brexit votes are for British voters and parties anyway. What the party does want to see is “some sort of special status for the North, to stay in the European Union,” he said. And how has this message gone over in Ottawa?

“The common response from the MPs and senators (was) ‘What can we do to help?’” said Cullinane. He hoped that Canadian politicians from all parties would “use whatever influence they have with the British government,” to speak up for the Good Friday Agreement. But with Brexit negotiations turning into a nightmare few could have predicted back in 2016, “I’m on the more optimistic side (that) common sense has to prevail. There are enough voices in Britain who can see that. I am hopeful that there can be a deal.” Earlier that week had seen the bizarre spectacle of British Prime Minister Theresa

May dancing on to the stage at her annual party conference to the tune of ABBA’s “Dancing Queen,” while former Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson roused his Tory supporters at a fringe party event earlier. “We have to separate out the lies in the Tory party,” said Cullinane. The likes of Johnson and fellow Brexiteer Jacob ReesMogg, “make a lot of noise but they are not the British government,” he said. Which isn’t to say that May doesn’t listen to them. “She will pander, in our view, to these hard Brexiteers,” he said, including the Democratic Unionists, who are propping up May’s Conservative minority government.

Bloom on the Beach

worldwide with recitations and music paying tribute to James Joyce’s literary masterpiece Ulysses. In 2016 Councillor Mary Margaret McMahon was instrumental in establishing Peggy Delaney Way in the Beach(es). This year, due to the initiative of Peggy’s son, Rory O’Shea, and the councillor’s political savvy, the city ratified the naming of four adjacent laneways – ~ BLOOMSDAY WAY / SANDYCOVE WAY / LIFFEY WAY / STEPHEN’S GREEN WAY ~ (extending eastwards off Peggy Delaney Way from Ireland’s Ambassador to Canada, Jim Kelly addressing crowd at Leuty Ave to Glen Manor Kew Gardens across from Peggy Delaney Way (framed photo in Drive) picture is of Peggy) ctober 13th @11am the official unveiling of four newly-named laneways, in commemoration of BLOOM ON THE BEACH – an odyssey that has taken place in Toronto’s eastern beachfront community every ‘Bloomsday’ since 1992 - an annual pilgrimage which happens in cities

Councillor McMahon, Toronto Bloomsday founder Mary Durkan, Peggy Delaney’s son, Rory O’Shea, Irish Ambassador Jim Kelly. Councillor McMahon attended the official unveiling ceremony. His Excellency, Jim Kelly, the Irish Ambassador to Canada, was guest of honour. These themed laneways will be a permanent reminder of how, on June 16th for the past 26 years, the Beach(es) are transformed into early 20th century Dublin for the day – and how this tradition has left its cultural mark on this waterfront community for more than a quarter century. CELTIC CANADA | WINTER 2018

Another Awkward Christmas Dinner Conversation – Your Estate By Colin Barry

hat do Sonny Bono, Amy

estate plan. These elements include:

Winehouse, Prince and Aretha

• named beneficiaries on accounts,

integrate the financial and tax implications

• a will,

of the plan. This helps ensure that there

than being great musicians, they also died

• powers of attorney, and,

are enough funds to pay for expenses like

without a will. This left their estate in

• permanent life insurance.

probate and income taxes.

Franklin have in common? Other

disarray. Their loved-ones were left confused and without access to assets. A 2016 survey found that 74% of

With a little planning, income tax and

A Certified Financial Planner can

A lawyer drafts the will and power of

probate fees (or estate administration tax)

attorney to ensure that your wishes are

can be minimized or avoided altogether. A

properly documented. Also, a lawyer will

Canadians don’t have an up-to-date will1. It

complete plan designates charitable gifts,

ensure that the will is signed and witnessed

is little consolation that many Canadians, at

declares your personal care preferences,

properly. This ensures that your wishes

least, have something in common with those

including terminal medical treatment and

survive.

great musicians. Our mortality is unpleasant

organ donation intentions.

to think about. It’s no surprise that a lot of people don’t have a plan.

An estate plan distributes your assets as

Once the plan is in place, make sure that it’s communicated. You don’t want to

you intended. It provides funds to cover

surprise your executor, or a beneficiary. The

funeral expenses, as well as immediate and

point of a plan is to make things easier for

a will, their estate is divided up by a set

long-term family living costs. It identifies the

your loved ones.

formula. The formula is strictly applied, so

people chosen to carry out your last wishes

it can trigger unnecessary asset sales and

and care for your minor children.

In Ontario, when someone dies without

taxes. And it’s probably not what was ever intended.

There is a lot to think about and fit together.

What is an Estate Plan? In the simplest terms, an estate plan is

I wonder if Sonny Bono, Amy Winehouse, Prince and Aretha Franklin discussed their estate with their family. My guess is that they

While a will is something we focus on, it’s not the only element of an estate plan.

Have the conversation

How do you build a solid estate plan? It’s good to get professional advice when you create and execute your estate plan.

a plan that keeps more of your money in

Each Province had different estate rules. If a

the hands of your heirs. There are many

will or power of attorney is not drafted and

elements that work together to create an

executed correctly, it can be useless.

didn’t have those awkward conversations with their loved ones. If they did, their legacy would have been very different. Don’t forget to have those awkward conversations too. About Colin Barry – Canfin Financial Group Colin Barry is a Certified Financial Planner who works with families and small businesses to plan their finances and make the most of what they have. Visit www. colinbarry.ca for more information. Fee for service financial planning and investments provided through Canfin Magellan Investments Inc. Insurance provided through Canfin Capital Inc.

(905) 829-0094 www.colinbarry.ca 8

CELTIC CANADA | WINTER 2018

1. http://estatelawcanada.blogspot.com/2016/06/new-surveyshows-74-of-canadians-dont.html

Chips, Pies, and a Pint The Wide Ranging Irish Pub Influence in Canada By: James Burt

long with the beer styles, Canada has been happy to adapt Irish pubs and the lifestyles themselves. Since the earliest enclaves of Irish arrived in Canada, many centres of commerce and recreation have played host to Irish pub fare on the western side of the Atlantic. These establishments aren’t just trendy establishments either—they work to carry real homeland items. “We have all the traditional dishes: shepherd’s pie, curry chips, Guinness sausages…those are hard to get,” said Marc O’Brien, assistant manager at downtown Toronto’s PJ O’Brien Irish Pub and Restaurant. “We also carry loads of northern and southern Irish whiskies. The list is one of the most extensive anywhere.” Gibbons noted that the combination of native Canadian interests with modern Irish expatriates has kept the Irish pub lifestyle strong on Canadian soil. Along with Saturday music events played by real Irish natives, PJ O’Brien keeps events going for patrons, influenced by many newly arrived from Ireland in the city. “We see a lot of never Irish lads coming over with the government visa program,” Gibbons said. “We have more younger Irish coming in and they are looking for authenticity. To help with that, we hire out the best: ninety percent of our staff are Irish.” Every major Canadian city sports at least one Irish themed Irish pub, including: • Irish Heather – Vancouver • The James Joyce – Calgary • O’Hanlon’s – Regina • Shannon’s – Winnipeg • The Galway Arms – Etobicoke • McVeigh’s – Toronto • Aulde Dubliner and Pour House – Ottawa • Hurley’s – Montreal • Cash and Kettle – Saint John • The Old Triangle - Charlottetown • Durty Nelly’s – Halifax • Bridie Molloy’s – St. John’s There are many, many more… “People like those places,” said Gibbons. “A place for Irish food and where they can get a good, proper pint of Guinness.”

CELTIC CANADA | WINTER 2018

The Picture-Perfect Pint Guinness Storehouse Introduces The Guinness STOUTie

ext time you are visiting The Guinness Storehouse in Dublin, your adventure will be even more memorable thanks to the introduction of the Guinness STOUTie, the ultimate way to make your pint your own. Launched November 1st to mark International Stout Day, a worldwide celebration of the distinctive beer style, visitors to The Guinness Storehouse were able to experience The STOUTie – a picture-perfect pint featuring your selfie or chosen design on the head of the iconic black and white stout. The picture-perfect pint: The Guinness Storehouse introduces the Guinness STOUTie Exclusively available at The Guinness Storehouse, visitors can purchase The STOUTie for €6.00. For more information and to purchase tickets for The Guinness Storehouse visit www. guinness-storehouse.com.

In the true spirit of innovation, The STOUTie pushes boundaries, using technology to add natural malt extract to the top of the Guinness pint to create the chosen design.

Christmas Cheer – The Irish Negroni Doug Nameth from The Irish Embassy shares their most popular cocktail.

n the past few years we have seen a growing interest in ‘prohibition style cocktails’ and also whiskey based cocktails. One of our answers to this trend is our spin on a Negroni. I personally guarantee you won’t find anything like this anywhere else. Now this is not your standard Negroni at all. First we start with an Irish whiskey, in this case Kilbeggan. We infuse the whiskey with the basic ingredients in a hot toddy, Honey, Lemon, Cloves, and Cinnamon. This process takes 24 hours to complete.

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We use this infusion and add sweet vermouth and Aperol, along with a touch of orange bitters. We strain the mixture over a large ice cube and garnish with an orange wheel. This cocktail has blown our guests away and sincerely touches our Irish roots. Pop in and try for yourself… it is sure to warm the cockles of your heart!!

Is Toronto Becoming

A Tech Hub? By Rory O’Donovan

s we near the end of 2018 and head into the holiday season, most people’s thoughts and priorities are with family, friends and spending quality time with loved ones. The few weeks from mid December to early January sees a slow down in the market. This is a also a time to pause and reflect on the year gone by and to start planning and setting goals for 2019. Looking back at 2018, the introduction of the “Stress Test” resulted in a much more moderate market, especially in the detached freehold sector. The reduction in buying power forced most buyers into more affordable property types which in turn increased demand further in the condo and townhome sector. Demand is at its strongest at price points under $1M. The introduction of the “Stress Test” saw a much slower start to 2018. This was to be expected as buyers process and adjust to the changes. With time buyer confidence built and the second half of 2018 saw an increase of buyer activity in the market, even with anticipated interest rate increases. Supply and demand is always going to be the main housing issue throughout Toronto and the GTA. Introducing “Fair Housing Plans” & “Stress Tests” to slow down buyer activity works in part but it’s not the overall answer. Planning and the approval processes should be reviewed and fast-tracked or streamlined to get more housing to the market in a timely manner to keep up with the constant demand, otherwise supply will always lag. Aside from methods to slow the market through government policy and tighter lending rules, the economic fundamentals of this great city have not changed. Immigration is still as strong as ever. Major companies want to move to, and invest in Toronto. Millions of dollars are being invested in transit throughout Toronto, the GTA and the GGH putting Toronto up there with other worldclass cities. There is however a new wave of money coming to Toronto and it’s not the foreign investor narrative that we’re used to hearing. This money is tech money and lots of it.

According to CBRE, Toronto has secretly risen through the ranks becoming the fastest growing tech hub in north America in the past 5 years. Two years ago Toronto wasn’t even in the top ten and now it’s number 4 behind Washington DC, Seattle and San Francisco. (CBRE) For example, Microsoft has announced that it will be opening a new office in downtown Toronto covering four floors of the new CIBC Square building currently under construction. Adding 500 jobs by 2022, along with another 500 positions for co-ops and interns. Intel is getting back into making dedicated graphics processing units (GPUs). They announced that the key engineering and design work for the project will be happening in Toronto. Shopify is investing up to $500 million in a new downtown Toronto development. The development is called “The Well” located at Front & Spadina. Uber is expanding its Advanced Technologies Group (ATG) in Toronto and opening a new engineering lab. Uber plans to spend $200 million CDN on the Toronto hub over the next five years, eventually bringing the number of employees from 200 to about 500 employees. U of T will be expanding to Toronto’s new waterfront Innovation corridor. In partnership with MaRS, the university will be anchor tenant at the “Waterfront Innovation Centre” in the heart of the city’s next innovation hot spot. The centre

plans on opening in 2021 and it’s just a stone’s throw from the proposed Sidewalk Toronto neighbourhood. This tech money is real and it’s already here. These companies are moving here because they want the talent the universities are producing. An average tech salary would be just over a $100k to start. (CBRE). This all indicates a very healthy economy which leads to further demand, impacting rents and property prices going forward. About Rory O’ Donovan Rory O’ Donovan is a licensed Real estate professional who works with first time buyers, repeat buyers, sellers and investors. Visit www. roryodonovan.com or www.emeraldproperty.ca for more information or contact directly +1 (647) 202 3748 rodonovan@bosleyrealestate.com

CELTIC CANADA | WINTER 2018

The Federation of Irish Societies La Fédération des organisations Irlandaises Cónascadh na gCumann Gaelach Montreal

FIS End of Summer Party, 2018

Montreal’s Irish Community Helps Geoff Kelley, Quebec Minister for Native Affairs, Celebrate His Retirement By Paul Loftus

n September 19th the Federation of Irish Societies (FIS) held its fifth annual End of Summer Party at Hurley’s Irish Pub on Crescent Street. The FIS is an umbrella group consisting of the Presidents of the 25 Irish organizations in Montreal who get together a number of times a year. The objectives are: • to provide an opportunity for the numerous Irish organizations in Montreal to get to know each other better; • to share upcoming events with the intention of minimizing scheduling conflicts; • to support each other; • to provide opportunities for networking for the members of Montreal’s Irish societies;

Victor, Geoff, Paul and Lynn

CELTIC CANADA | WINTER 2018

• to discuss matters of interest to the community at large and any other items of significance to the Irish Community in Montreal. It is run by four directors: Victor Boyle, National President, Ancient Order of Hibernians; Ronan Corbett, Immediate Past President, Montreal Shamrocks Gaelic Athletic Association; Lynn Doyle, President, Ciné Gael and Paul Loftus President, United Irish Societies of Montreal and University College Dublin Alumni Association, Montreal Chapter. People gathered in the Courtyard at Hurley’s from 5:30 p.m. Kathleen Weil, Minister for Relations with the English-Speaking Community and

Geoff ’s fellow English speaking Minister was present. David Birnbaum Quebec’s third English Speaking Minister was unavailable as he was on the campaign trail. I had the pleasure of acting as MC for the evening After a welcome I introduced a number of the dignitaries for this year’s St. Patrick’s Season who were present: Parade Grand Marshall, Elizabeth Quinn; Liam Daly Award Recipient, Alan Jones and Irishman of the Year, Paul Doyle. The following Presidents of Irish Societies attended the evening’s celebration: Victor Boyle, Ancient Order of Hibernians; Scott Phelan, St. Patrick’s Society; Paul Loftus, United Irish Societies and University College Dublin Alumni Association, Lynn

Doyle, Cine Gael; Fergus Keyes, Montreal Irish Monument Park Foundation; Kevin Callahan, Coalition for Peace in Ireland; Pat Short, Ville Marie Feis; Dave Shurman, Blooomsday Montreal; Ann Broden, Innisfail Social and Sports Club and Tony Cunningham, Montreal Shamrock’s Gaelic Athletic Association. Montreal. Jimmy Heaslip represented the Montreal Irish Rugby Football Club, and Carol McCormick, Vice President, Ireland-Canada Chamber of Commerce represented the Chamber. Others who attended were Peter Kirby, well known Montreal Irish author and Christine St. John, Executive Director, British Quebec Business Coalition; This year’s anniversary celebrations in the Irish Community were announced; United Irish Societies 90th, the Innisfail Social and Sports Club’s 75th and the Montreal Shamrock’s GAA Club 70th. Steve Owens, Secretary of the Montreal Shamrock’s GAA Club showed the club’s trophies for this year. The football team won the Montreal May Tournament which is the largest GAA Tournament in Canada. The team also won the Eastern Canadian Men’s Championship. Congratulations to Montreal Shamrock’s GAA club on their victories. A very special guest from Toronto made the trip to attend the party, June Tiffney, Regional Sales Manager Canada for Aer Lingus, Irish International Airlines. June announced that from next summer Aer Lingus will be flying directly from Montreal to Dublin. That now makes three airlines flying directly from Montreal to Dublin, namely Air Transat, Air Canada and Aer

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Lingus. Wow Airlines also flies to Dublin via Reykjavik in Iceland. From October 7th to October 28th there will be an Irish play at the Segal Theatre. I obtained a 15% reduction for the Irish Community to attend this play. People can obtain the discount by using the Promo Code MTLIRISH when ordering tickets. The play director, Andrew Shaver from the Segal Theatre spoke to those gathered about the play and then introduced one of the actors who came from Ireland to participate in the play, Bryan Quinn. During the evening Greg Kelley introduced the Guest of Honour for the evening, his father Geoff Kelley. Geoff is the Minister for Native Affairs. Geoff Is retiring as from October 1st, the date of the provincial election in Quebec. Geoff spoke of his time as Minister and his involvement with the Irish Community. He was presented with a pewter mug by Paul Loftus, Chairman 15-02-16

of FIS. The inscription on the mug says: Geoff Kelley MNA Thanks for all your support And best wishes on your retirement From your friends in the Irish community. September 19, 2018 The pewter mug wasn’t easy to find. Reliable outlets don’t stock them anymore but Lynn Doyle came to the rescue and saved the day. Following an extensive internet search Lynn located a source. The mug was sponsored jointly by the United Irish Societies and the Innisfail Social and Sports Club. The giant greeting card was sponsored by the Montreal Chapter of the University College Dublin Alumni Association. I wrapped up the formal section of the evening by thanking Bill Hurley, Owner of Hurley’s Irish Pub and the sponsor for the evening; Rod Applebee, Manager and all the staff at Hurley’s for their hospitality.

3:35 PM

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Whistler

Christmas in

By Rachael Hopwood

re you dreaming of a Canadian white Christmas? If so, head for the mountains of British Columbia where you’ll find the magical alpine resort of Whistler. Bursting with festive cheer and an abundance of snow-filled fun, there’s something for all ages and interests on and off the Whistler slopes. Here’s our essential guide to enjoying Christmas in Whistler.

Essential Christmas Holiday Events Orphan’s Christmas Party (December 11th) The Whistler Public Library Orphan’s Christmas Party returns for 2018 and is perfect for those spending their first Christmas away from home. Mix and mingle as you compete in a gingerbread house decorating contest, dance to Christmas tunes and enjoy a special screening of a festive classic.

Dress Like Santa Day (December 16th) What better way to bring Christmas to the slopes than with the traditional Dress Like Santa Day?! The first 100 people to arrive at the Garibaldi Lift Company dressed in full Santa or Mrs. Claus attire traditionally enjoy a free lift ticket too. Upload starts at 8.00am so get down there early donning your finest Claus costume! Family Apres (Mondays & Wednesdays from December 17th to March 27th) Head to Whistler Olympic Plaza each Monday and Wednesday between December and March to enjoy Family Apres; free kidfriendly activities and entertainment put on by the Resort Municipality of Whistler and the Province of BC. It’s family fun, the Canadian way. Whistler Holiday Experience (December 22nd - January 6th) The Whistler Holiday Experience is the perfect way for the kids to let off some steam while parents sip a hot cocoa or coffee. Kids can choose from a number of indoor and

outdoor activities including a mini putt course, bouncy castles, crafts and video games - all free of charge during the holiday break (excluding December 25th and 31st). The experience takes place between 3-6pm at the Whistler Olympic Plaza. The 35th Christmas Eve Carol Service (December 24th) The 35th annual Christmas Eve Carol Service will take place at the Westin Resort & Spa, hosted by the Whistler Children’s Chorus and Whistler Singers. Comprising a selection of traditional carols, choral music and readings by community members, the service is sure to get you in the mood for the big day. Entry is by donation. Christmas Dinner Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas without a hearty dinner on the big day. Roast turkey is the traditional Canadian Christmas feast but there are plenty of alternatives if that’s not to your taste! For those that love a classic roast, Hunter Gather offers three serving times on the big day, while 21 Steps and Basalt are also great choices for a turkey meal with all the Photo Credit Emmanual Mendes Dos Santos

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trimmings. For a break from the festive feast norm, head to SIDECUT where the culinary team are putting on a fusion of favourites with a signature twist. A special Christmas brunch is served at The Grill and Vine, while Whistler Cooks will bring your Christmas dinner right to your room. With over 100 places to dine during the holidays in Whistler, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Book early though to avoid disappointment. Festive Fun Fun and Whistler go together like mistletoe and wine, turkey and cranberry, Christmas and carols...OK you get the message. In addition to ample skiing and snowboarding opportunities, be sure to take advantage of the many other forms of festive Canadian entertainment. Here’s our pick of the best festive fun in Whistler this Christmas... Compete in an axe throwing contest… No holiday season in Canada would be complete without some healthy competition, and the folks at Forged Axe Throwing have got you covered. Formerly reserved as an entertainment source of woodland lumberjacks, this exciting sport involves

throwing axes at a target with the hope of sinking a hugely satisfying bullseye. This extremely entertaining activity is great for groups and the team at Forged will help perfect your aim and even teach you a trick shot or two along the way. Who needs board games?! Go Snowshoeing... Snowshoeing is arguably one of the easiest ways to experience and explore Whistler - if you can walk, you can snowshoe. Follow trails deep into the forest getting up close to some of the birds and animals that call this place home. Snowshoeing can be enjoyed at any pace so is perfect for all ages, and there are numerous tour options to choose from if you don’t want to go it alone. Ice skate at Olympic Plaza… Everybody’s favourite winter activity, ice skating is romantic, exhilarating and extremely festive. The rink at Olympic Plaza is perfect for couples and family groups, although you can also skate on local lakes when conditions are safe. Throughout December look out for the big man himself as jolly old St. Nick takes a break from all that gift wrapping and skates with the crowds of Whistler. Santa is available for photo opportunities so be sure to grab him before the big day! Visit the Coca-Cola Tube Park… Feel the wind in your face and embrace the fun of the CocaCola Tube Park, located in the Base 2 Zone on Blackcomb Mountain. There’s no experience or skill needed to enjoy the thrill of the tubing hill, just bring a hunger for excitement and a sense of adventure. Tubing is the perfect festive fun for kids (and big kids too). The park is open 7am-7pm during the holiday season.

Watch the Fire & Ice Show… Head to Skier’s Plaza every Sunday night to witness a spectacular display of ski and snowboard skills as part of the legendary Fire & Ice Show. The event attracts some of Whistler’s best skiers and riders who jump and flip through blazing rings of fire accompanied by fire spinners, a DJ and fireworks. Prepare to be amazed by this electrifying evening of entertainment! Take a stroll and see the lights… Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas without colourful lights, and in Whistler you’ll find some 280,000 to 350,000 of them! Crews start early installing the 5,000 strings of lights that brighten up the village. Take a stroll and see the illuminations for yourself, taking plenty of photographs to upload to those social media feeds later on. Go sightseeing on the PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola… An absolute must while in Whistler, the PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola is a great way to see Whistler from a different perspective. You’ll enjoy panoramic views of the mountains, forests, valleys and glaciers, before arriving at the mountain top where you’ll enjoy dining options and a viewing gallery. New for winter 2018/19 is the arrival of the much-anticipated 10-passenger Blackcomb Gondola. Together, the new Blackcomb Gondola, PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola, and the Whistler Village Gondola form the first three-gondola connection in the world. CELTIC CANADA | WINTER 2018

St.Pats GAA Awards Night By Heather McCormack

n Saturday 20th October St. Pats GAA held the annual Awards Night at The Galway Arms Bar and Restaurant. The large attendance at the awards, was a credit to the club who this year celebrated their 50th Year Anniversary. Chairwoman Yvonne Morley, kicked off Saturdayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s awards with a recap on what was a great year for the club. Although not taking home silverware, both the Mens and Ladies teams competed fiercely in the Senior Championship and Yvonne noted that they had made great strides forward and she was excited to see what 2019 will hold. Next, Angela Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Muiri, Secretary of Canada GAA spoke about the tremendous work that was being done behind the scenes by the St. Pats Committee and how that was evident by the large numbers registered

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with the club this year. Following that the club awarded a number of players for their fantastic performances on and off the field this year. A new Club Supporter of the year award in memory of Fr. Gerry Scott, the first Chairman of St.Pats GAA, who passed away earlier this year, was presented to John Morley for his 40 years of dedication and support to our club. St.Pats GAA compete in both the Mens and Ladies Senior Championship in Toronto. They train close to downtown and pride themselves on being a social club who are very welcoming to new players. We are always recruiting, so if you know someone who wants to join please get in touch! Contact: secretary.stpats.ca@gaa.ie Awards Winners on the night included: Mens Players Player of the Year: Garry Neville Mens Coaches Player of the Year: Stephen Hannigan Mens Most Improved Player of the Year: Ben Graham

Ladies Players Player of the Year: Lorraine Moran Ladies Coaches Player of the Year: Ciara Keogh Ladies Newcomer on the Year: Nicola Monaghan St.Pats Club Person of the Year: Karren Kennedy Fr.Gerry Scott Club Supporter of the Year: John Morley

Former IRA Bank Robber Publishes Bank Heist Thriller

ORTHERN HEIST the debut novel from Richard O’Rawe You don’t need to have been a bank robber to write a great heist novel – but it helps... Richard O’Rawe is a best-selling writer with the inside knowledge, literally and metaphorically, to deliver the goods. In 1977 Richard was arrested for the armed robbery of the Northern Bank in Mallusk, Co. Antrim in the north of Ireland, but there was no such thing as the so-called ‘tiger’ robberies which became prevalent decades later. In the early noughties tiger kidnappings were employed to carry out the largest bank heist in Europe since the Great Train Robbery in England in 1963. On Dec 20th, 2004 the Northern Bank branch headquarters in Belfast was robbed of almost 30 million pounds, nearly derailing the Good Friday Agreement in the process. Now the author of Blanketmen and In the Name of the Son has penned his first fiction title. Northern Heist weaves the factual aspects of those events with vivid and authentic fictional characters to create a fast-paced, intricate and compelling thriller full of wit and verve. RRP $19.99; available on www. amazon.com and www.merrionpress.ie. About the book: When James ‘Ructions’ O’Hare put together a crack team to rob the National Bank in Belfast in December 2004, even he didn’t realise he was about to carry off one of the biggest bank heists in British and Irish history. And he’ll be damned if the Provos are getting a slice of it. 1 Richard O’Rawe’s debut novel is as audacious and well executed as Ructions’ plan to rob the National Bank itself. A new voice in Irish fiction has been unleashed that will shock, surprise and thrill as he takes you on a white-knuckle ride through Belfast’s criminal underbelly. Enter the deadly world of tiger kidnappings, kangaroo courts, money laundering, drug deals and double-crosses.

volunteers starved to death. Years later, O’Rawe wrote the bestelling Blanketmen: An Untold Story of the H-Block Hunger Strike which was published in 2005. He was slated and ostracised by the Irish Republican leadership and its supporters, who disputed his central contention that the last six hunger strikers could have been saved. O’Rawe grew up in West Belfast and was best friends with Gerry Conlon, whose remarkable life after prison was the subject of the critically acclaimed posthumous biography In the Name of the Son: The Gerry Conlon Story. Richard O’Rawe continues to live in Belfast and is working on a film script adaptation of the novel. Northern Heist is a roller-coaster bank robbery thriller with twists and turns from beginning to end. About the author: Richard O’Rawe is a convicted bank robber who was sentenced to eight years in jail for robbing a branch of the Northern Bank in 1977. While he was in the H-Blocks of Long Kesh he became Public Relations Officer for the Irish Republican Prisoners during the 1981 hunger strike in which ten Provisional IRA and INLA

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Natalie MacMaster & Donnell Leahys’ Celtic Family Christmas! By Rick Frayne

hen Canadians think of beauty, talent, and a warm wonderful personality accompanied by Celtic fiddle music, it’s likely the image of Natalie MacMaster that first comes to mind. The pride of Troy, Nova Scotia, Natalie was born in 1972 and has since gone on to receive Canada’s most prestigious musical achievements, a Juno Award, twice in fact, as well as The Order of Canada. ‘East Coast Artist of the Year’ and Canadian Country Music’s ‘Fiddler of the Year’ are also amongst her accomplishments. Her global audience is now as diverse as the artists 20

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she has played and recorded with, most notably her husband Donnell Leahy, a highly accomplished and famous musician in his own right. In addition to appearing with Donnell and several of their seven children on stage, Natalie has also performed with such names as; Carlos Santana, Faith Hill, Yo-Yo Ma, The Chieftains, Bruce Guthro, Cookie Rankin and Alison Krauss. Her performances at world class festivals like Cape Breton’s Celtic Colours, Scotland’s Celtic Connections and America’s Merle Fest are legend. Six singles, five videos and some 14 albums make for a most impressive

catalogue of works but within her special world, one can sense simple pleasures like baking cookies with her family give Natalie a very important unique sense of pride and special satisfaction. She married Donnell Leahy of the Leahy family band and relocated to his home town of Lakefield, Ontario in 2002. Raising their sizeable family, maintaining disciplined practice schedules and overseeing the school work of ‘the house band’ makes for a very busy life. Natalie and Donnell were kind enough to share some time with Celtic Canada and here’s what we talked about.

Do you remember the first time you picked up a fiddle and what was the first real song you played? NM: Yes I do, I was 9 and my fist song was “Twinkle Twinkle Little Star”. The first real song I played was called “Space Available” by Marcel Doucet inspired by a trip he had made to Labrador.

DL: Mom and dad took me to Toronto when I was three and bought me my first fiddle which I do remember. I don’t recall the first song I played, but the song Big John McNeill was one that I tried very hard to learn. It was tough to play in A so I mastered it in G and then A. That was exciting for me, then running and telling my mother I got it!

Playing for your family was no doubt a big source of support and confidence. What was it like the first time you played to a crowd of strangers and where was it? NM: Well I had been playing for about 6 months and I performed at a place called Glencoe Hall. I remember it felt really good to finish but I didn’t make any mistakes. DL: It was at a gathering and I was perhaps a little shy. We didn’t have small gatherings given the size of our family plus relatives and guests. I hid alongside my mother who was at the piano. I think I am over that shyness now.

Was it your uncle Buddy MacMaster that influenced your initial love for your instrument or another family member/ musician? NM: Uncle Buddy was a big inspiration but wasn’t really a teacher. I probably watched him play more than any other fiddler and learned by observing him though.

What age were you when you first played with your cousin Ashley MacIsaac? NM: I played together with Ashley at age ten but didn’t really even know he was my cousin till I was twenty.

Was Ashley always a wee bit eclectic? NM: In our childhood he was an average kid like most of us, a very regular young boy.

What was it like when you recorded your first album and what did you think about the process at that age? NM: I just went at it and felt like a rock star. I didn’t know then that I could have played any song and then put it in any order that I wanted to later on. So, I played and recorded everything in the order I thought it should be on the album. DL: Well, Dad was in charge of all that and I just played my parts like the others. It was good to learn arrangements and to be ready and well-rehearsed.

You’ve even produced your own songs. Was that self-taught or are there some recording engineers within the clan? NM: I just dove in and didn’t know any different. Ignorance was bliss but that seems to have worked out pretty well. DL: My first record on my own was done when I was 16 with my sister on piano. The engineer said ‘play’ and that’s what we did. My second album was called Leahy and it was quite an accomplishment for me.

If there were ever musicians who have shown the world that the family that plays together stays together, it’s you. How many of you have ever played together all at once on stage when you count all the Leahy’s and all? NM: Oh well let’s see now, all together probably 25, 26 at Casino Rama DL: That’s about right with both bands, kids, Mom and Dad maybe even a few more now.

A good kitchen ceilidh is a regular part of your culture. How big is your kitchen and can you all fit in there? NM: Well in our house we actually had a dedicated music room with a piano. The kitchen though was where I practiced most often. It wasn’t that big a house, so when 150 or so people would come over it would always spill into the kitchen just like most parties

Celtic dancing is a big part of your life, culture and stage presence. How much time have you spent practising dance as compared to fiddling? NM: Mom taught me a few steps at about age 5 and those are my basic squares. My time practicing the fiddle really didn’t allow the time to practice anything else at a higher level.

How did you meet your husband Donnell, the talented father of your seven children? NM: Well, he had a copy of my cassette that I had recorded at 16, and... Apparently he liked my music enough to drive out to Cape Breton and come find me... not even knowing what I looked like. He came to town where I was and asked around where I might be. Someone told him I was at teacher’s college so he tracked me down and he phoned me there. Then he asked me out to dinner. I didn’t know what he looked like either, so it truly was a blind date. We dated for two years and then we broke up for ten. That’s a story of its own but everything has worked out very nicely for us.

Was there any indication then that you two would be together with the amazing story book family you now have today? NM: No, not really. DL: No, I did not predict this at all.

Continued on page 22 CELTIC CANADA | WINTER 2018

Continued from page 21 – N ATALIE

MACMASTER & DONNELL LEAHYS’ CELTIC FAMILY CHRISTMAS!

How long after the two of you two met was it until you were married? NM: We married when I was 30. There was that 10 year break prior that. We had our first child when I was 33.

Did he/ she have to audition for you or did you already like his/her style enough to ‘collaborate’? NM: Well I already had his cassette from my cousin and I knew his playing was amazing. I thought his talent was awesome and astonishing. DL: Well after the first one, I thought I’d be nice and let her have a second one because there probably wouldn’t be a third and I was trying to be nice again, so after the third one came the fourth and I think I may have been drinking... (Natalie has been laughing throughout this lighthearted kidding and it seems that any potential rejection of her, or her playing has been well worked out.)

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Having seven children and touring...how do you manage that act alone, never mind your stage show? NM: You know, it is cumbersome. But love just leads you there by nature.

What’s the longest time you’ve been away from your family? NM: My longest time away was 3 months on tour with Johnny Reed. I was the mother to 6 of my children at that time and Donnell was holding down the fort at home. He did visit and we met up regularly, kids and all. In that time 2 1/2 weeks was the longest I went without seeing my family.

What are some of the most exotic places you’ve performed in? NM: I was on a cruise ship during the New Year’s celebration of the new millennium and we were in the Antarctic region. On New Year’s Day we were taken ashore to Antarctica. I’m probably one of very few people you’ll meet

that’s ever been there. Most people think that’s pretty exotic. There were some other great destinations like New Zealand, The South Pacific and more.

Your Celtic Christmas album is a family favourite of ours and we look forward to hearing it again soon. How did the Celtic Family Christmas Special come together? NM: It was truly providential. It was not planned at all and it arose out of an opportunity when I was asked to speak at the prayer breakfast of Ontario. In the preparations leading up to that, we were asked if we might like to do a couple of musical performance interludes. The wonderful people at Marble Media saw some potential to elaborate on that and incorporated some of the clips of us as family decorating, baking, playing road hockey etc. DL: Yes, that was a great opportunity to show sides of our life that we don’t normally get a chance to and express some creative aspects that we normally don’t have the time to. The good Lord even gave us a special dusting of just enough scenic snow for our hockey game. Merry Christmas!

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Adventures in the World of

Irish Dancing By Siobhan (Kelleher) Kukolic (siobhankukolic.com)

y oldest son Jack, who is now 15, has competed at the World Irish Dancing Championships four times over the past four years. The event took place in Montreal, Glasgow, Dublin and again in Glasgow. When the competition was in Europe, we stopped in Mayo to see our Irish relatives. Last spring, we were headed to Glasgow for Jack to compete in solos at the Worlds and for Jack and his younger brother Jameson to compete in teams. We were leaving Toronto on an Aer Lingus flight on a Friday night and had two hours once we arrived in Dublin to catch our flight to Glasgow. Jack was to dance on the Monday. The flight was delayed three hours in Toronto so I knew we would miss our connecting flight.

Solo World dancers from Goggin-Carroll School of Irish Dance (Back row: Lauren Pope, Gavin McCarthy-Willoughby, Sophie Prevost, Jack Kukolic, Brenna Allore. Middle row: Catherine Hoare, Rachel Hennessy Brynna McVittie. Front row: Ava Vickers, Amy Zenker, Abby Hennessy.) 24

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And I was travelling with my three children so it would be a challenge to get four seats on a flight to a city that was expecting 20,000 family and 5,000 dancers from around the world for a massive competition. We bolted through the Dublin airport and a lovely girl named Louise at the Aer Lingus desk heard my plight. She worked for 20 minutes on her computer and found that all the flights to Glasgow, Aberdeen and Edinburgh were sold out. So she got us a flight to Birmingham where we were to wait six hours before getting on a flight to Glasgow. We would miss our one day of sight-seeing in the city, but at least we would arrive before Jack danced. After waiting in Birmingham, our Glasgow flight was announced. We were the first at the gate and started walking down the ramp to the plane when someone came towards us and said, “You have to go back. We might not have a pilot.” At that point, I was ready to fly the plane myself. But thankfully it all worked out and we arrived in Glasgow after more than 24 hours of travelling. Jack danced beautifully in solos and the ceili team the boys were on came 8th in the world. What a wonderful memory. Next we flew back to Dublin and took a train down to Mayo. It was Easter week and we were so blessed to spend the holiday with all our Irish cousins and my parents who had come home from Canada at the last minute to visit with my Uncle Sean who was unwell. We also got to celebrate my mom’s 75th birthday surrounded by our Irish family. My parents brought me back to Ireland every other year from when I was two until I was 16 so that I would know my relatives. This was a priceless gift. Would I have joined an adult Irish dance team and put my children, Jack, Jameson and Maggie, into Irish dance if I didn’t feel such a strong

connection to my Irish roots? I will never know. But I do know that Irish ballads, music and dancing have paved a path that my family follows to this day. Irish dance has taught my children grit, dedication, perseverance, and how to win and lose with grace. It has also been a bridge between our family in Canada and in Ireland and we are forever changed because of those relationships. Six flights, four countries and countless memories. Our most recent trip to Ireland will never be forgotten.

Team picture at Worlds after getting 8th place: Goggin-Carroll dancers and teachers (Back row: Lauren Giannone, Josh Vilim, Jack Kukolic, Jameson Kukolic, Gavin McCarthy-Willoughby and Barb Goggin. Front row: Becca Stewart, Ava Vickers, Abby Hennessy, Rachel Hennessy, Emily Hambly and Brittany Silla.)

Rosaleen Crowley R

osaleen’s Point of Connection, a paintings and poetry, hardcover book was first published in Ireland by Bradshaw Books. Later, with the consultative services of Nancy and Art Baxter, Hawthorne Publishing in the USA, it is now distributed by Roscro and Co, LLC, Carmel IN. Water, nature

and open spaces are constant images and the concept of “home” is a constant theme. Exploring Cultural Identity through Irish Art and Poetry (Roscro) was read at Global Irish Diaspora Congress at University College Dublin on August 17. Rosaleen is a poet, artist, educator and speaker who likes to present at schools and libraries. She is currently President /Co Founder, Carmel Creative Writers, Inc and President Elect, International Women Indiana. Rosaleen was in born in Cork and graduated from University College Cork. She first moved from Ireland to the South of England and then to the North of England where she taught Speech and Drama before she relocated to Carmel, Indiana, USA.

Childlike Innocence It reminds me of childlike innocence Where fairies dance up and down A time when it was ok to have no sense A time when it was fun to be a clown. Majestic mountain standing proud Giving strength to all who stare Shout with all your lungs out loud Live life, love life, seek to dare. Simplicity is best experienced after excess Love regained is twice as sweet Freedom known through loss Keeps us on our feet. After all, it reminds me of been grown up Dreaming dreams and being a friend Drinking from the overflowing cup Happy life, no strife in the end. Rosaleen Crowley First published in Point of Connection-a paintings and poetry book, Bradshaw Books, Cork Ireland, now distributed by Roscro and Co, LLC, Carmel IN 46032

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Ireland’s T

raditions are especially cherished at this time of year, and often in parts of the country where the past does not seem so long ago. Author Felicity Hayes-McCoy recalls some of the Christmas rituals being celebrated in her corner of west Kerry. In Ireland in the past, doors were left unlocked on Christmas Eve and fires that were usually covered with ashes at bedtime burnt brightly all night on the hearthstones. Each night during the Christmas season candles shone in the windows, sometimes anchored by sea-sand in jars wrapped in coloured paper, sometimes just set in a hole gouged out of a turnip.

The Christmas Candle in the Window on Christmas Eve In many households today those old glass or stoneware jars, that once held jam or marmalade, are still carefully kept. Here in West Kerry they come out at Christmas to be refurbished, or just polished, and carefully set on the windowsills. And boxes of tall, red candles, big enough to burn each night through the Christmas season, still appear in shops here in December, along with boxes of salted fish, called ling, that’s traditionally eaten on Christmas Eve. The open doors, the fires and the candles in the windows are part of Ireland’s traditional Christmas rituals. They offer symbolic warmth and shelter to Joseph and Mary on their way to Bethlehem, where, in the Christian story, Christ was born in a stable because there was no room at the inn. These days the candles in Irish windows are often powered by electricity but if you

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Christmas Traditions

cross the mountain to Dingle on Christmas Eve the pinpoints of light, clustered like stars, still mark the presence of villages. And for centuries, Christmas lights here were more than symbols. Flickering in the darkness, they offered shelter to any and every wanderer who walked the Irish roads on Christmas Eve. It was an echo of the ancient, preChristian belief, held all over Europe, that a stranger on the threshold seeking shelter might well be a god in disguise.

Celtic Inheritance Everywhere you look at Christmas time in West Kerry you can see Ireland’s Celtic inheritance, still present in rituals that once brought energy and confidence to the darkest months of the pagan year. Take The Wran’s Day, the 26th of December, when one of the biggest holiday events in Ireland takes place in Dingle town. Its name is a corruption of the English word ‘wren’, and in the Irish language it’s Lá an Dreoilín. There’s endless research on The Wran’s Day, and suggestions that dreoilín, the word for wren, comes from draoi-éan, ‘druid’s bird’. The festival’s certainly as old as the ancient gatherings in which disguised dancers swayed between bonfires, music and lights, dancing to ward off midwinter famine and darkness.

Ancient Gatherings In the past, groups of boys here used to dress up in rags or old coats turned inside out. Each separate group was called a ‘wran’. Smeared with soot, or wearing masks, they’d go from house to house, playing music and

asking for pennies. Nowadays most people head for Dingle instead to join the rival parades that march and dance through the streets playing music. The collections are mainly for charities now and wrans compete to see who can raise the most money for local causes.

A Living Link to the Past Starting at sunrise, the festivities continue late into the night, when groups of masked musicians play and dance in the pubs and the streets, defying the winter cold and darkness. Everyone’s welcome to join the celebration. Like the open doors and flickering candles, the tradition of the Wran reaches out to friends and strangers alike. Rooted in ideas of hospitality and sharing, it’s not just a great way to keep the Christmas party going. It’s a living link with West Kerry’s ancient Celtic inheritance. Felicity Hayes-McCoy’s The House on an Irish Hillside is a memoir of her personal relationship with the Dingle Peninsula. Source: Ireland.com

A Government of Ireland measure brought to you by the Department of Justice and Equality

Magdalen Restorative Justice Ex-Gratia Scheme Expression of Interest In 2013 the Government established an ex-gratia redress scheme for the beneﬁt of women who were admitted to and worked in one of 12 ‘Magdalen’ institutions. The Government has now decided to apply the scheme to women who worked in the laundries in those 12 institutions but who were resident in one of 14 adjoining institutions. The table below shows the 12 institutions covered by the 2013 scheme and the 14 relevant adjoining institutions covered by the recent Government decision. ‘Magdalen’ Institutions in 2013 Scheme

Institutions adjoining the ‘Magdalen’ Institutions Good Shepherd Sisters

Magdalen Institution New Ross

St. Aidan’s Industrial School

Magdalen Institution Waterford

St. Dominick’s Industrial School Gracepark Training Centre Mayﬁeld Training Centre

Magdalen Institution Cork

St. Finbarr’s Industrial School Marymount Training Centre

Magdalen Institution Limerick

St. George’s Industrial School St. Joseph’s Reformatory School Rosemount Training Centre

Sisters of Our Lady of Charity St. Mary’s Refuge, High Park, Dublin 9

Monastery of Our Lady of Charity Sean McDermott Street, Dublin 1

An Grianán Training Centre St. Joseph’s Industrial School Martanna House Hostel St. Anne’s Hostel

Sisters of Mercy House of Mercy Domestic Training School,

St. Michael’s Industrial School,

Summerhill, Wexford

Summerhill

Magdalen Asylum, Forster Street, Galway