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wicklowvoice.ie April 16 2015
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April 16, 2015, t: 01 901 5556/7, e: info@wicklowvoice.ie
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Tourism bonanza
Ancient East trail to deliver 600,000 visitors By Michelle McGlynn
Wicklow’s tourism industry is set for a huge boost with an estimated 600,000 extra visitors heading this way following the launch of Ireland’s Ancient East tourism initiative. The Garden County will play a vital role in the new drive which is hoped will do for the east of the country what the Wild Atlantic Way has done for the West of Ireland. Failte Ireland announced the plan earlier this week with the intention of increasing the visitor spend to €950m by 2020. “This is a great opportunity for Wicklow and all the destinations if Failte Ireland put as much effort into it as they did with the Wild Atlantic Way,” CEO of Wicklow Tourism Fred Verdier told the Wicklow Voice. “Now we now have a destination like we never had before and, for Wicklow in particular, we have a unique selling point in that we have outdoor activities that none of
the other areas have” The route includes the Wicklow Mountains, Glendalough, Powerscourt House and Gardens, Russborough House, Mount Usher Gardens and Wicklow Gaol. The cultural and heritage trail will stretch from the Boyne Valley in the north east and run through the midlands, ending in Cork. Ireland’s Ancient East is a community project and people and businesses in the local area are being encouraged to get involved. Visitors following the trail will have the chance to go off the beaten track and get a taste of authentic Irish life. It is themed along four pillars: Ancient Ireland, Early Christian Ireland, Medieval Ireland and Anglo Ireland. Wicklow is rich in Anglo Irish heritage with four of the Wicklow sites coming under that category. Continued on page 6
TV star Glenda Gilson with Molly Kelleher and Anne Sexton at the Anne Sexton Pilates launch in Bray Bowl. » Lots more pictures from around the county inside
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04| NEWS news in brief Shane Vickers’ Trust There will be a dinner dance in aid of the Shane Vickers’ Trust the Parkview Hotel, Newtownmountkennedy on May 15. They are seeking financial support or the donation of items to be auctioned on the night. Please contact Paul Prendergast on 086 8237892 or theshanevickerstrust@ gmail.com.
wicklowvoice.ie April 16 2015
A kiss made in Brazil
Ella tribute
Join singer Stella Bass for a special birthday tribute performance to Lady Ella Fitzgerald at 8pm on April 25 at The Hot Spot Music Club, Greystones. Tickets are €10/€8 and can be purchased in Vintage La Touche or over the phone on 087 2917519.
Baby joy for Laura Congratulations to new mother, Laura Wood on the birth of her baby boy. The East Coast FM Freshly Squeezed presenter welcomed her bundle of joy on April 14 and both mother and baby are doing well. Best wishes to Laura and her family from everyone here at the Wicklow Voice.
Lila gives her 85-year-old grandfather Bernardo a kiss during her wedding ceremony By Michelle McGlynn Special guests brought some Brazilian flavour and a little piece of home for a Wicklow bride. Brazilian couple Lila and Bernardo Bais, who are both in their eighties, made the long journey to the Garden County for their granddaughter’s wedding, who is also named Lila. Lila (87) and Bernardo (85) made countless memories during their first trip to Ireland including the precious
THE HARBOUR BAR
EVENTS GUIDE f: /theharbourbarbray t: @theharbour_bar
time they were able to spend with great-grandson, Lucas. Family has always been their top priority in life and they loved being a part of granddaughter, Lila’s special day. The Bais’ are a traditional family in Brazil and are a part of local history in the State of Mato Grosso do Sul. In Campo Grande, you will find Morada dos Bais which is a museum that houses historical objects and documents from the family. Lila and Tony Burke from
Bray got married at an intimate ceremony in The Royal Hotel before they went on to enjoy a wonderful evening at Tinakilly House. Lila had only intended to stay in Ireland for six months when she enrolled in an English course. Luckily, she stayed on after the course had ended and met her now-husband Tony in 2009. The couple were delighted to welcome the eight guests who travelled from Brazil to celebrate their wedding.
news in brief THURSDAY 16TH — BLUEGRASS
JAYWALKERS FRIDAY 17 — BLUES BEN PREVO SATURDAY 18 — 60’S JAMAICAN SKA BIG BAND INTERSKALACTIC SUNDAY 19 — FUNK WHAT GIVES TH
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Innovator award St Kilian’s Community School have been shortlisted for the 2015 Young Social Innovator of the Year awards. They are nominated in the category Making Our Country More Inclusive and Poverty Free for their project St Kilian’s Tackles Homelessness.
Great Irish Bake All six Tesco stores across Wicklow will be holding bake sales on April 17 from 12pm until 6pm in aid of Temple Street Children’s Hospital. People are being encouraged to hold their own bake sales in work or school to help raise even more funds as the hospital hope to build a new neurology and renal outpatients unit.
Dementia info day Wicklow Dementia Support have organised an information morning on April 25 in the Parkview Hotel, Newtownmountkennedy from 10am to 1pm. All family carers and friends are welcome and places can be booked by calling 089 4286928 or email wicklowds@gmail.com.
Seanie is back in the dock after jury sworn in By Michelle McGlynn
The second trial of former Anglo Irish Bank chief executive Sean ‘Seanie’ Fitzpatrick is due to begin next Monday, April 20 after the jury was sworn in this week. The Greystones banker has pleaded not guilty to 27 individual counts under the Companies Acts 1990. Mr Fitzpatrick is accused of failing to disclose to Ernst and Young, auditors of Anglo Irish Bank, the true value of loans worth at least €139 million given to him or people connected to him between 2002 and 2007 while he served as an officer of Anglo Irish Bank. The offences are alleged to have occurred at various dates between 2002 and 2007. In April of last year, Mr FitzPatrick was found not guilty on all ten charges he faced on providing unlawful financial assistance to bank customers to buy shares in the bank in 2008. This new trial trial had been due to begin on monday, April 13 but was adjourned after trial Judge Mary Ellen Ring heard there were some delays in the case. A jury of six men and six women were sworn in after Judge Ring gave the potential jury members a number of warnings. “Special categories” of people were excluded from serving on the jury including anyone
who had expressed themselves - either in public or on the internet - on issues concerning Anglo Irish Bank, the banking crisis or bankers in general such that it might embarrass them if their views became known. A childcare worker, a property manager, a computer programmer, housewife, engineer, chef and several people who are unemployed will serve on the jury. The jury panel heard that up to 80 witnesses may give evidence in the trial, including several witnesses from Anglo Irish Bank such as Fintan Drury, Anne Heraty, Donal O’Connor, Matt Moran, Peter Butler and Tiarnan O’Mahony. Judge Ring directed the jurors not to “go searching” on the internet, to stay away from Twitter and other social media in respect of any matters relating to the trial. The trial is expected to last until May 29, but could conclude before then. The prosecution claims that Mr Fitzpatrick authorised arrangements to ensure that the balance of the loans in question would be reduced or appear to be reduced. The 66-year-old, with an address at Whitshed Road, Greystones, is also accused of producing financial statements about the value of loans to Anglo’s directors, which failed to include the true amounts outstanding by him to the bank.
Super-fast internet on way By Michelle McGlynn
Super-fast broadband is on it’s way to Wicklow. Arklow, Bray, Greystones and Wicklow Town are among the 50 towns selected for the initial rollout of the super-fast broadband service later this year. The connection will come in at about1gb per minute - four times as fast as the maximum browsing speed currently available in
Dublin. These speeds will put Wicklow on a par with broadband available in globally advanced cities such as Tokyo and Hong Kong. The €450 million service is a joint venture between ESB and Vodafone and will go live from this autumn. Pricing for the service will be announced at a later date. This service is separate from the government’s National Broadband Plan.
NEWS |05
April 16 2015 wicklowvoice.ie
wicklow people in pictures
UNICEF Ireland Ambassador Sarah McGovern with local woman UNICEF staff member, Wicklow’s Ailsha Davey, together with (from left to right) Karen O’Reilly (10) and Chloe O’Reilly (10) at the launch of UNICEF’s annual tax appeal
It certainly looked like Patrick O Gorman from Arklow had fun during his mid-term break. (pic Yvette O Beirne)
Odile Evans from Johnstown and Coolgreaney Wicklow, who has been elected as Leinster vice-president of Macra na Feirme
Cllr Pat Fitzgerald and Margret Flusk from Arklow Cancer Support Group, were out to support the Roosters Motorcycle Club for their annual Circuit of Ireland, in aid of ACSG (pic Yvette O Beirne)
Nigel, Carl (10) and Abby (4)from Kilcoole out and about in Greystones
Jessie Ennis, CF patient ambassador, Wicklow TD Anne Ferris and Philip Watt, Chief Executive, Cystic Fibrosis Ireland at the launch of Cystic Fibrosis Ireland’s 65 Roses national awareness week, which takes place from April 20-26
Charlie Hadden of Fitzpatrick Motors, and Stephen Thomas, who won the Bray Credit Union Monthly Car Draw for March 2015
E BOY
Airport
Rail
Ferry
Festivals
Hiking
Crafts
TRIM CASTLE
06| NEWS
Trim
Mullingar
Fishing
wicklowvoice.ie April 16 2015
BRÚ NA BÓINNE
Navan
Tourism drive to deliver 600,000 visitors ... But we LOUGHCREW CAIRNS
news in brief
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Continued from page 1
New courses
Boyne Valley
HILL OF TARA
Athlone
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Two new courses will run in Baltinglass Further Education and Training Centre beginning in May. The internet/email course is four to six weeks, day or evening for two hours per week. The gardening course is four to six weeks during the day for two hours a week.
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CORK Cork Harbour
miss out on 1,000 resort jobs By Michelle McGlynn
WICKLOW came close to double tourism boost after it emerged that the county missed out on a €100 million resort and up to 1,000 jobs. Center Parcs, one of the UK’s largest holiday resorts, announced plans for a forest resort to be built in Newcastle, Co. Longford. But it has been reported that Wicklow had been in the mix when the UK firm were deciding where to construct their Irish complex. The exact location that was being considered is not known as the company has refused to comment. It is also a mystery as to why Wicklow, already popular with tourists, has missed out on this lucrative opportunity. Wicklow would appear to be an ideal location for a venture of this nature. The county also benefits from its close proximity to the capital and transport links to the airport and ferry ports. The project is believed to be the biggest single private investment in tourism in the history of the State.
Christy, Darkness and all that jazz to light up festivals
DUNBRODY EXPERIENCE
By Michelle McGlynn
Fans of Groove Festival are no longer in The Darkness about this summer’s line-up after the headliners were announced recently. It was announced that Saturday night headliners will be The Darkness and Dublin four-piece The Riptide Movement, while on Sunday night Killruddery House will play host to Christy Moore and festival favourites Kíla. The line-up also includes Spring Break, Little Hours, The Young Folk and Wyvern Lingo. The festival will return to Killruddery House and Gardens on July 4 and 5. Now in it’s third year, the family friendly festival was nominated for several festival awards both at home and further afield in 2014. Groove has grown since it first hit Wicklow and last year they introduced The Harbour Bar Stage which will return this year - line-
up to be announced shortly. In addition to the stellar acts performing, Groove is a hub of activity and fun for all ages. The largest climbing wall in Europe and the tumbling fun of the water zorbs will be back in 2015. The Groove Zone will have plenty of room to chill out and relax by the beautifully designed water lily pool as you indulge in some food and maybe a drink or two from the bar. Younger children will have plenty to keep them out of mischief thanks to the specially designed Enchanted Garden where there will be plenty of great activities lined up all weekend. Both day and weekend passes are now on sale and this year Groove have introduced a special Come and Go pass which gives you entry all weekend. In the meantime, you can kick off your 2015 festival season with Bray Jazz Festival on the May bank holiday.
It has been described as “one of the very best small jazz festivals in Europe” and it is now in its 16th year. With close to 40 shows, featuring musicians from almost a dozen different countries, there is so much wonderful music to sample over the course of the long weekend. Most of the shows are free of charge as the festival is backed once again by the Arts Council of Ireland, Wicklow’s local authorities, Failte Ireland and a host of local businesses. Centre-piece gigs will take place in the Mermaid Arts Centre where the curtain will be raised with a big band concert unlike anything previously staged by the festival. There will be a strong educational element to this year’s festivities with workshops being held in Bray Town Hall. For more details, see www. brayjazz.com.
April 16 2015 wicklowvoice.ie
NEWS |07
08| NEWS news in brief Art exhibition Local artist Jim Mullins will be exhibiting his works in the Greystones Library until April 30. Jim is a self-taught artist and has had exhibitions in Signal Gallery, Bray and the Davis Gallery in Dublin.
wicklowvoice.ie April 16 2015
Back to Tiger times
Volunteers needed Special Olympics Ireland’s annual collection day will take place on April 24. Volunteers are urgently needed to look after collection points in Baltinglass, Arklow, Bray, Greystones and Wicklow Town. To volunteer contact Emma Horgan on 01 8912000.
Beautiful babies The Greystones Guide are looking to find the Most Beautiful Greystones Baby of all Time and you can enter by sending your chosen baby pic and their date of birth to info@greystonesguide.ie. Winners will be chosen from each decade and they will then battle it out for the overall title.
Burn the bills Wicklow Right2Water are holding a Burn the Bills protest on April 18 at 7pm on Wicklow seafront. The plan is to assemble and then safely burn bills, registration packs and other correspondence from Irish Water.
Tidy Towns Newtown’s Tidy Towns group meet each Monday from 7pm to 9pm outisde St Joseph’s church. They will hold their AGM at the Conner House on April 20 at 7.30pm.
Inside the enormous Wicklow mansion with a private pool which has just hit the market for €1.5m By Michelle McGlynn SOME people in Ireland will never learn ... Just as the country recovers from going bust, one of Wicklow’s most impressive properties has hit the market for €1.5 million. The Danes, an incredible mansion in Ashford, is three floors and boasts glorious views of the Wicklow mountains. The 8,300sq ft dwelling is the height of luxurious living with six en suite bedrooms and its own private pool. It is no wonder The Danes was once nominated as the “most Celtic Tigery house” in Ireland on a property discussion website. The pool complex is located on the lower ground floor and includes a Jacuzzi, sauna, steam room and showers. Once you have relaxed after an invigorating, you can head over to the separate bar and games room - the perfect man-
cave or party venue, depending on your mood. The house is on an elevated site of 19 acres and is hidden from the road so there’s no need to worry about things getting too noisy for the neighbours. There was no scrimping on the finishes in The Danes which adds to the decadent atmosphere. Throughout the property there is programmable under-floor heating, a smart control lighting
system and an audio system. It has hardwood, parquet and travertine floors, bathroom fittings, planting and water features - including an actual moat. The open plan kitchen includes a breakfast room and there is an adjacent family room. A separate dining room and barrel-ceilinged living room feature exposed beams giving the space a trendy, modern feel. For those sunny days and
balmy evenings, you can enjoy a meal or a drink on the expansive terrace which wraps around the side of the house. There are four spacious bedrooms at ground level each with its own ensuite and three feature private balconies. The master bedroom suite upstairs is also ensuite with a large balcony and it contains a separate dressing room. At the front of the house is a two-storey round tower with
property in brief 88 Rossmore
Newtownmountkennedy Four bedroom, semi detached Floor area: 1594 sq. ft. €325,000 Situated in a quiet cul de sac, like all houses in the stunning Rossmore development, the property is built and finished to a superior standard and offers a sense of space and light that immediately becomes apparent on walking through the front door. Generously proportioned rooms are significantly larger than would normally be associated with comparable modern developments. This is a great family choice. Viewing is strongly advised.
rooms on both levels - the upper level offers picturesque views of Wicklow Head and the Irish Sea. The acreage even provides the opportunity to keep horses or other animals. The buyer of The Danes may have to fork over a million and a half euro but they will be getting a whole lot for the price. It will have cost approximately double the asking price to build. Savills have reported plenty of interest already.
Goralough Mills
Putland Road, Bray Five bedroom, semi detached Floor area: 2260 sq. ft. €675,000 Goralough Mills offers a rare opportunity to buy a substantial fivebedroom home in one of Bray’s most sought-after locations. Generously arranged over two floors, the spacious accommodation features modern living and entertainment spaces, with great light throughout. There is an excellent flow to the property, with the ample kitchen leading to both the dining room and large living room with patio doors to a manicured south-facing rear garden. To enquire about these properties, contact Dooley Auctioneers, 01 2010300.
ADVERTISING |09
April 16 2015 wicklowvoice.ie
Dooley Auctioneers 96 Main Street, Bray; Beaumont, Delgany. 01 20 10 300
88 Rossmore, Newtownmountkennedy
AT A GLANCE Semi-detached BEDROOMS: four FLOOR AREA: 1594 sq ft Ber: C1
€325,000
01 2010300
Goralough Mills, Putland Road, Bray AT A GLANCE Detached house BEDROOMS: Five FLOOR AREA: 2260 sq ft BER: G
€675,000
10 | OPINION
opinion&comment
We need to talk about our gas emissions
A
comprehensive, holistic approach is the only way to achieve real and lasting reductions in Green House Gas emissions. There is a need for us all to collectively work to achieve real and lasting reduction in Green House Gas emissions. We must act at Sectoral, National , European and, indeed, Global levels in a collaborative fashion. To take a simplistic approach to what is a complex, global issue will prove to be both futile and, most probably, counterproductive. Ireland’s agricultural emissions are a case in point. They represent a sizable percentage of our overall emissions at 31% as compared with the EU average of 10%, Malta on the other hand creates a mere 2% of its total emissions from agriculture. However, the old adage of ‘lies, damned lies and statistics’ is worth bearing in mind as they don’t take into account the importance of any sector to the wider economy of the particular State and, secondly, no regard is given to the efficiency or otherwise of the production system of that State. For example Ireland has relatively low emissions from heavy industry, yet no debate seems to be taking place around the possible improvements to that sector in Ireland. Indeed I doubt if there is much controversy in more industrialised states. As Chair of Joint Committee on Agriculture, Food and the Marine I would draw attention to the efforts of the Committee to input into the ongoing detailed discussion and consideration at legislative-making stage at national and European level. We set about producing an informed report on the potential to maximise the benefits of our agricultural land, to identify all aspects of land use, including afforestation, and the possible contribution that it can make to mitigating climate change. Sustainability, environmental compatibility and food security were areas of particular interest to the Committee. Food Harvest (FH2020) identifies “Smart Green Growth” as being a basic principle in achieving the targets set down, in doing so recognition was given by the authors of the absolute need to include sustainable production in any implementation strategy. The new CAP programme has, for the first time introduced a strong environmental aspect to the Basic Payment Scheme in “Greening” measures. The Committee invited in a wide range of stakeholders, all who were conducting their own research on the topic of climate change/emissions reduction. The list included Teagasc, Coillte, the EPA, Bord Na Mona, and with Directors General of the
EU Commission. additionally we examined a report carried out in Scotland following a conference hosted by the Scottish EPA and Scotland Rural College, (Delivering multiple benefits from our land; sustainable development in practice). The aim was to bring together all the research available, to collate that research and to make it available to policy makers at national and EU level and identified key issues: • Our ecosystem in its entirety provides us with the ability to produce food and biofuel from fertile soils, renewable energy, carbon sequestration and the disposal of agricultural pollutants from afforestation and pollination and other biodiversity services from environmentally friendly practices, eg agro forestry. • Practical measures are necessary to fulfil this potential; the use of low carbon tools such as the Carbon Navigator should be promoted, nutrient management planning should be taught, availing of the most up to date research. • In all cases knowledge transfer, from research and development to the farmer in as efficient a way as possible is essential, discussion groups and demonstration farms are seen as a effective ways of getting the most up to date information into practice to the widest cohort of farmers. • Policy tools; these include grant aid for forestry and bio energy crops, utilising new CAP measures such as Greening, High Nature Value Farming and Locally Led Environmental Schemes. While acknowledging that meeting targets was challenging, it is attainable, if approached appropriately. Taking a simplistic percentage figure in isolation of all other relevant factors is not the approach. Bearing in mind the collective wisdom that identifies global food demand and the difficulties in meeting that demand in many parts of the world,(primarily because of water scarcity), it would be a folly for Ireland to cut our food production, only for the same food to be produced elsewhere at greater cost to the planet’s ecosystem. We must have an honest and open debate on this issue before reaching final conclusions This is a topic that will be widely debated, I’m certain, so let us all agree that facts not perception is the basis for debate. Andrew Doyle TD is a member of Dáil Éireann and is Chairman of the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Agriculture, Food and the Marine. He was previously a member of Wicklow County Council from 1999 – 2007 and was Cathaoirleach of Wicklow from 2005 to 2006. He and his wife, Ann, have four children.
with Andrew Doyle with Michael Wolsey
“W
They are now a standard part of our Easter tradition chocolate eggs, fluffy bunnies and moaning teachers
have you got something to say? if you would like to write on this page, then contact us e: info@ wicklowvoice.ie w: www. wicklowvoice.ie
Our teachers can be very slow learners hite collar unions serve their people badly when compared with those who draw their membership from the factory floor, although I suspect the fault lies more with the members themselves than with their paid officials. Factory workers tend to be less articulate than their white-collar counterparts. I’m generalising wildly here, I know, but in my experience they also tend to be less opinionated and more willing to accept that there are, sometimes, some people who know more about some things than they do. So they appoint experienced officials to run their unions and, by and large, let them get on with the job. These officials know their performance will be judged by two criteria only: pay and conditions. They may tut a little about the social policies of governments or devote a few words at conference to the need for Fair Trade products or the inequities of Direct Provision centres. But they know enough about politics to realise that nothing they say on such matters will make much difference and enough about their members to know that they won’t get much thanks for anything they do say. Pay and conditions are what they are employed to deliver and, in pursuit of more pay and better conditions, they will wheel, deal, advance, retreat and play the game of give and take like the seasoned professionals they are. Show them a dispute and they will find a compromise. That is their nature. Sometimes their members on the factory floor will reject the compromise and send their officials back to the table. But, sooner or later, a deal will be accepted in the knowledge that these paid union leaders are doing their job and know what is best for their members. In white collar unions, the members always think that they themselves know best - not just about pay and conditions but also a host of other subjects they believe to be union business and about the best tactics to achieve their aims. I speak from experience, having been, for most of my working life, a member of the National Union of Journalists - a fine body of men and women when it comes to laying down the law about what should and should not go into newspapers and other media, but, on matters of practical value to their members, about as useful as an Orange flute at a Glasgow Celtic supporters’ party. For most of my years, that union has been run by decent hard-working officials capable of doing a good job if given
a chance. They have regularly been undermined and frustrated by their members who talk a good talk - write a good write? - but couldn’t organise a piss-up in a brewery. Actually, that’s not true: the Guinness Brewery is a favourite place for NUJ branches to hold functions such as retirement dos and they organise these piss-ups very well. For rounds of drink, they’re grand. Wage rounds are a different matter. Time after time, their unfortunate officials are sent into talks in the certain knowledge that, no matter how good a deal they come back with, there is every chance it will be rejected by the few self-important windbags who bother to turn up at meetings. It is hard to beat the NUJ at the task of complicating simple things or snatching defeat from the jaws of victory but, all credit to the teachers’unions, they manage it year after year. They are now a standard part of our Easter tradition - chocolate eggs, fluffy bunnies and moaning teachers. And there they were last week again: the TUI, grumpy but polite; the INTO, grumpy but restrained and the People’s Democratic Collective known as ASTI (All Sensible Thoughts Ignored) whose slogan is: We are real teachers and have far more to be grumpy about than the rest of you. These unions have worked themselves into a lather over the Junior Cert, an exam which hardly matters to anyone nowadays. They may well be right to oppose teachers assessing their own students. The British government tried it and is having second thoughts. But Britain tried this policy on exams of some importance - not the Junior Cert. Our own Government knows this to be a matter of no real significance and is probably sorry Ruairi Quinn was allowed to float the idea in the first place. It has back-tracked on most of the plan and all it wants now is the opportunity to save a little face and not entirely abandon some otherwise sensible reforms that come with the package. Any blue-collar trade union leaders would know that they had won this fight and would long ago have come up with a formula which leaves Jan O’Sullivan with a fig leaf to hide her blushes. The teacher unions’ leaders must also know victory when it stares them in the face. But try explaining that to the Democratic People’s Collective. Sometimes our teachers can be very slow learners. Michael Wolsey is a former deputy editor of the Irish Independent, and sat on the judging panel for the National Newspaper of Ireland Journalism Awards.
OPINION| 11
April 16 2015 wicklowvoice.ie
anyotherbusiness
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Funfair is flying high ... but Bray Summerfest may be grounded for good This stunning photograph of the funfair at Bray seafront was taken by local photographer Ian Thuillier and has been receiving a great deal of attention since it was featured in Cara magazine last month. The Aer Lingus in-flight magazine has a readership of 1.3 million from all over the world. The funfair has become a controversial topic following a recent vote by the Council of the Municipal District of Bray to reduce the number of days that the funfair is permitted to run at the seafront from 24 days to 15 days. Bray Municipal District were due to vote on the matter again this week. However, it emerged that they are unable to vote on the matter twice within six months. Therefore the earliest date that the matter can be revisited is October of this year. A source close to the Summerfest committee has
expressed concern that the event will not be able to go ahead. Cathaoirleach of Bray Municipal District, John Brady had met with the committee twice in an effort to resolve the matter. It is estimated that Summerfest brings €6 million into the local economy every year during its duration. Meanwhile, Ian’s image has been shortlisted in the Low Light category of the Open Competition at the 2015 Sony World Photography Awards and will be included in their exhibition at London’s Somerset House. “The evening was setting, the clouds were rolling in and as the light became magical and low, I found myself walking the promenade and being presented with this beautiful vision,” Ian said of the photograph. He is a self-taught photographer and documentary maker.
This vote is about fairness in our society
T
he Referendum on Marriage Equality next month looked a certainty to be carried in polls earlier in the year. It should still get comfortably over the line, even though the very latest polls show a drop in Yes support. Currently the Yes vote is polling at about 75 percetage points. The referendum proposes to amend the Constitution by inserting a new section stating: ‘’Marriage may be contracted in accordance with law by two persons without distinction as to their sex’’. The government have also prepared an Implementation Bill which will address the changes to legislation that would be required should the referendum be carried. Enactment of the Children and Family Relationships Bill -
Brian Quigley which proposes, among other things, to give adoption rights to same-sex couples – would be a crucial component of underpinning a Yes vote. Whether you support or are against the referendum, it is crucial that everyone exercises their democratic right to vote and help in the decision-making process. The decision in May on this issue will affect the lives of many of our citizens, possibly immediate family members, friends, colleagues or associates
of each and every one of us. It is also important to vote on your agreement or disagreement with the issue at hand, not to use the vote as a chance to hit the government with a protest over water charges or other issues. Such a hijacking of the referendum would be of great disservice to our democratic process. Why is there a need for this referendum I’ve heard it asked? Don’t same-sex couples already have Civil Partnership? Yes they do is the answer to that, but CP is not the same as full marriage, doesn’t carry the same legal implications, assurances and standing. Also, from a human point of view, people in same-sex unions want their relationship to be a full marriage with nothing second-rate about it. Opinion around our definition and perception of what constitutes a family is also quite emotive in this campaign.
Some people feel the traditional family unit of a mother, father and children will be devalued if same-sex couples can adopt and raise children. The reality is however, that the traditional family unit has been changing and evolving for many years already in Ireland. For example, more and more marriages comprise both parents working, with children cared for (outside school hours but during working hours) by a support network of relatives, friends and childcare professionals. It’s helpful to think of the family angle from the perspective of children. If they are, for whatever reason, in care and not with their biological family and without the likelihood of that being restored, is it not better that they are adopted by a couple who will give them a loving home and have the time, interest and resources to help them reach
their full potential, same-sex or not? Ultimately the referendum is about fairness and tolerance in 2015. We live in a much more open society than we did 30 or 40 years ago. Lots of things have changed for the better, like rooting out discrimination against and intolerance of people or groups based on their sexual orientation, religious or ethnic background. Passing the referendum next month is the latest stage on this journey we as a society have to take. One of the sub-referendums next month, on the undercard of the Referendum on Marriage Equality, will be a vote on lowering the age of Presidential candidates from 35 to 21. This is in fitting with a number of initiatives ongoing at present, both inside and outside the main political parties, to try to get more young people in-
volved in politics with a view to running in the 2016 general election. Having read about some of the political initiatives mentioned above, I looked into the age profile of the current Dail. Average age almost 50. A bit too old, I think. Definitely more young people needed. Young people are intelligent, articulate, considerate and have plenty of ambition, vision and drive. All the right attributes to recruit to any organisation. The Dail should be no different. But they don’t have experience I hear the dissenting voices say. Well they have experience of being young, and being young is something that affects a sizeable proportion of our population. Our own Simon Harris proves the point, having established himself as an accomplished politician in a short space of time.
1 2 3 4 5
12 | WHAT’S HOT WILDLIFE
with Justin Ivory
April flowers April is certainly renowned for its showers but it is also a great month for flowers. Keep your eye out for the following:
Ramsons (Allium ursinum) Everybody’s woodland favourite, filling the air with the heady scent of ‘wild garlic’.
Cuckoo Flower (Cardamine pratensis) Also known as Lady’s Smock, this is one of my personal favourites. Widespread and common in damp meadows and pastures.
Wood Anemone (Anemone nemorosa) Simple, but gorgeous perennial of mature woodland.
Common Field Speedwell (Veronica persica) A little gem of a flower. Low growing with tiny, delicate, mauve flowers.
Greater Stitchwort (Stellaria holostea) Widespread and common. Can be found in woodland and along the edges of hedgerows and pathways. Bright white flowers with 5 deeply notched petals. All pics courtesy of J.C. Ivory
wicklowvoice.ie April 16 2015
Fitness idea of the week Anne Sexton Pilates Above Bray Bowl, Quinsborough Road, Bray, www. annesextonpilates.com Pilates is extremely beneficial for the body and it works every part of the body. It strengthens muscles, develops flexibility, increases co-ordination and improves health and well being. Anne Sexton Pilates can cater for clients of any age and of any ability, from elite athletes to people who are looking to get fitter. Anne has recently opened her second studio in Bray and they are currently offering beginners Pilates mat and Reformer classes. Classes will progress and become more specific over time as people get to grips with the basics. Classes are scheduled to fit everyone’s timetable as they offer early riser and mid-morning classes, lunchtime express classes as well as evening classes. If these do not suit, Anne and her team will always try their best to accomodate.
fundraiser of the week East Coast FM coffee morning Various locations, April 17 The East Coast FM Coffee Morning is hoping to smash their €250,000 fundraising target this year. All funds raised go to the five Wicklow cancer support centres and the Wicklow Hospice Foundation. The main venues are The Martello, Bray; The Beach House, Greystones; Kingfisher’s Kitchen, Enniskerry; The Grand Hotel, Wicklow Town; Fishers, Newtownmountkennedy; Kavanagh’s at Vartry House, Roundwood; Lawless House, Aughrim; Avoca cafe, Ashford; West Wicklow House, Blessington; Avondale Sports Shop, Rathdrum; River Bank Cafe, Arklow. Here you will be treated to special performances and appearances from such names as Brian Kennedy, Amanda Brunker, comedian Dave Young and author Cathy Kelly. There will be bag packing on April 18 in Tesco in Bray, Arklow and Wicklow as well as in Dunnes, Newtown on April 1618. The Monster Table Quiz will be in the Strand Hotel, Bray on April 19.
book of the week Inside the GPO 1916: A first-hand account By Joe Good As we are officially on The Road to the Rising, this first-hand account of the 1916 Rising and its aftermath brings alive the historic events that ushered in the beginnings of an independent Irish state. A Londoner and member of the Irish Volunteers, Joe Good guarded the approach across O’Connell Bridge as the rebels took the centre of Dublin. He joined the garrison in the GPO and describes the events of insurrection: the confusion, the heroism and the tragedy of Easter week. After the Rising, Joe worked asan organiser for the Volunteers. He was a close associate of Michael Collins and his portrait of Collins provides fresh insight into his character, his competitiveness and how he related to his men. In 1918, Good wasone of a handpicked team sent to London to assassinate members of the British cabinet and here he gives the first full account to be published of this extraordinary expedition. Joe Good died in Dublin in 1962. He wrote his journal in 1946 for his son Maurice, who has now edited it for publication.
TV SHOW of the week Jane the Virgin
E4, Wednesdays, 9pm
Jane the Virgin is based on a Venezuelan telenovela and has won over audiences and critics alike in the US. The premise sounds a bit ridiculous but the show works. Jane is accidentally artificially inseminated by a doctor during what is supposed to be a routine exam. The success of the show is largely down to the endearing Gina Rodriguez
Clinic of the week Merrion Foot Clinic 23 Seafield Road, Blackrock, Dublin 4, 085 1911271, 01 5397834, www. merrionfootclinic.ie Say goodbye to your foot and ankle pain with the help of Merrion Foot Clinic. They are a modern and innovative practice who specialise in prevention, diagnosis and treatment of all conditions of the lower limb. They treat people of all ages for any conditions associated with the foot and leg. The clinic treats foot pain, arch pain, heel pain, ankle pain, knee pain, stiff and restricted joints of the foot and ankle. Merrion Foot Clinic can also deal with any routine chiropody complaints such as corn, callus, ingrownt toenail, warts or verrucas. Staff will take the time to listen to you and believe in working with you and fully involving you in your treatment. They are constantly educating themselves so that they are at the forefront foot care. At Merrion Foot Clinic, you are treated as an individual not just a patient.
who won a Golden Globe for her portrayal of the title character. Jane Villanueva is an ambitious, young Latina woman who is studying to be a teacher. When she was ten years old she made a vow to remain a virgin until she was married. Now she faces some big choices. Things only get more complicated when her long term boyfriend proposes and she discovers that the father of her unborn child is her new boss as well as an old flame.
6 7 8 9 10
WHAT’S HOT| 13
April 16 2015 wicklowvoice.ie
MOVIE of the week Avengers: Age of Ultron Gaiety Cinema, Arklow The long wait is finally over as the Avengers sequel arrives. The first, and probably biggest, blockbuster of the year hits screens and we are in for a treat. Our superheroes reunite to take on an insane sentient robot bent on destroying mankind. Genius billionaire playboy philanthropist Tony Stark has invented a peacekeeping robot, Ultron. But when Ultron decides that humans are the enemy, he sets forth wiping them off the front of the Earth. Stark reconvenes the Avengers as they face their greatest foe. The plot will also look ahead to phase three of the Marvel Cinematic Universe as the tensions between Iron Man, Captain America and the Hulk escalates into all-out war. The Gaiety Cinema are holding a special Marvel triple bill screening as part of the release. On April 22 from 7pm you can see Avengers Assemble, Captain America: The Winter Soldier and Avengers: Age of Ultron. Tickets are only €12.50 for all three.
HOROSCOPES
Training course of the week CPC transport manager courses Green Isle Hotel, Naas Road, Dublin 22, April 18/May 13 CPC.ie are enrolling for the latest Transport Manager Courses after which successful candidates will receive an internationally recognised qualification for life from the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport in Ireland. This course plays a key role in efforts to fill 15,500 transport sector job vacancies. A Certificate of Professional Competence
(CPC) in Transport Management is a compulsory requirement for any individual who wishes to fill one of the vacancies that are due to come online. CPC.ie have a 99% pass rate and all course participants will receive a strong grounding in financial and HR management, health and safety, employment and contract law, marketing and other key areas are crucial for achieving success in the transport sector. Full details of the Transport Manager CPC course dates, fees and exam times are available online on www.cpc.ie, by email info@cpc.ie or by calling 1890 374837.
Fleurtique 24 Florence Road, Bray, 087 2208944, www.fleurtique.ie
Virgo- This week is a 8 Sidestep obstacles at work. Slow to avoid breakage. Take time to finish an old job before beginning the next. Reassure someone who’s anxious.
GIG of the week The Mighty Stef The Harbour Bar, Strand Road, Bray, April 22 The Mighty Stef are a four-piece alternative rock group originating in Dublin. It began life in 2006 as Stefan Murphy’s baby, but it’s been years since The Mighty Stef has existed as a solo endeavor. Sonically The Mighty Stef embraces the glory of rock’n’roll in
SKON Design are celebrating the opening of their brand new showrooms by offering you 25% off all new wardrobes when you mention the Wicklow Voice. Their team of experienced and qualified cabinet makers, furniture and interior designers and sliding wardrobe specialsts will all be on hand to help you. At SKON Design, they want to help you to transform your bedroom into the room of your dreams. They offer contemporary sliding wardrobe design that is custom manufactured for you. Built by skilled cabinet makers, they all come with a 10 year guarantee and full interiors as standard. Are you ready to transform your space with colour, space and light? Then stop dreaming about it and head on down to SKON Design’s showrooms.
Gemini- This week is a 7 Take a break in your travels. More study is required. Obstacles and delays abound. Slow down and avoid an accident. Play by the book.
Leo- This week is a 7 Take it easy, slow and steady wins the race. Consider potential problems before acting. Plan, and then revise to include forgotten resources.
Fleurtique is your one-stop flower shop for every occasion whether it be a special anniversary, a wedding, a funeral, debs or just because. The florist is jointly owned by well-known, talented florists Hilary Salmon and Sally King, who formerly managed Shankill Flowers. The pair are excited to welcome clientèle both old and new at their brand new premises in the heart of Bray. At Fleurtique, they understand that life today is all go and it can be difficult for some people to get in during normal business hours. Flowers by Appointment is a service offered for clients who need added assistance and cannot meet during the day. They can meet at their shop at a time that suits you. In addition to beautiful flowers, Fleurtique offer a gorgeous range of giftware, ornaments, pots and vases. The Garden of Ireland range was introduced recently featuring soaps, colognes and hand lotions.
Skon Design Unit 16, Churchtown Business Park, Dublin 14, Freephone1800 303404, www.skondesign.com
Taurus- This week is a 6 Professional obstacles arise. Persistent efforts eventually get through. Read the manual. Take frequent nature breaks to recharge your spirit.
Cancer- This week is a 6 Take one step at a time. Keep on, despite financial setbacks or obstacles. Don’t hurry, but don’t stop either. Take time to research the road ahead.
florist of the week
sale of the week
Aries- This week is a 6 Get organised. Talk with friends gets further than action today. Support someone with a hardship. Don’t react blindly. Check the big picture.
all its forms. Influenced by 60 years’ worth of rock’n’roll music and culture, by the desert, by the sea and by the endlessness of space, The Mighty Stef write simple songs drawn from personal triumphs and woes, commentaries on the world that surrounds them and works of pure and utter fantasy that interchange seamlessly and beautifully.
Libra- This week is a 5 Keep practicing. Get to breakthroughs by having breakdowns. Fail! And then show up. Loved ones are there for you. Follow through, even if you don’t feel like it. Scorpio- This week is a 7 Delays could stall a home project. Something you’re trying doesn’t work. Get feedback from family. Hunt for bargains with the extra time. Sagittarius- This week is a 6 Romance tickles your fancy. The plot thickens. Plan your next move. Know who said what to whom. List all the reasons why not. Capricorn- This week is a 8 Persistence and determination can unlock doors. Patience is required or you could try again later. Aquarius- This week is a 8 Self-discipline with personal ritual enriches the experience. Abandon procrastination. Make a decision you can live with. Don’t buy gadgets. Pisces- This week is a 5 Practice healthy diet and exercise routines. Engage in an open inquiry. Consider your core values and motivations. Accept assistance.
14 | LIFESTYLE
wicklowvoice.ie April 16 2015
my favourite things
Summer sizzlers
WHAT’s HOT
with Mairead Vickers info@wicklowvoice.ie
Spring-Summer 2015 Autograph @M&S
SpringSummer 2015 www. asos. com
Yellow Sunflower Dress €77 Dickins & Jones @House of Fraser
Midi Dress www. pretty little thing. com
Spring-Summer 2015 www.phase-eight.com
There’s nothing like the glimpse of a sparkling day to turn our thoughts towards the annual holiday, mini breaks away and the lovely long weekends ahead of us in the coming months. Family Ties When meeting the clan out for a big meal, choose a fun but family appropriate look with a classic jacket and pants combination. SpringSummer 2015 Autograph @M&S Girls’ Day Out Feel comfy and look the part with these easy to layer and style pieces. Spring-Summer 2015 www.phase-eight.com Saturday Night at the Movies Who cares what picture you see when you look this good?! Stand out from the crowd and look effortlessly on trend in a pretty pair of printed trousers. Spring-Summer 2015 www.asos.com
Date Night You really can’t go wrong with a classic and sexy LBD (Little Black Dress) paired with simple accessories for romantic nights out. Malaya Cross Back Midi Dress €35 www. prettylittlething.com BBQ Beauty Make a fun and flirty style statement in a bright floral printed dress and trendy shades. Yellow Sunflower Dress €77 Dickins & Jones @House of Fraser Mairead Vickers Styling Covering a wide range of fashion styling and image consulting services; including customised style advice and personal shopping services at home or on the go, Mairéad Vickers Styling offers a unique gift experience and a one-stop shop for your complete wardrobe needs. Email to info@maireadvickers.com
April 16 2015 wicklowvoice.ie
SPECIAL REPORT| 15
andrew is a cut above Andrew McElroy Hair Concepts has opened its doors in Bray. A large crowd turned of family and friends out last Saturday to wish Andrew all the best and he is now more than ready to tame your mane and treat your tresses. This exclusive salon offers both classic and statement hairstyles to suit every individual and focuses on delivering exceptional customer service. From an early age, Andrew wanted to become a professional hair stylist but life got in the way of his plans, as life is wont to do. When he made the decision to pursue his passion and life long dream, his life was completely changed. Andrew trained and worked with top industry professionals, House of Colour, who are at the cutting edge of hair trends. He is now a City and Guilds qualified stylist who has been trained to the highest standards by House of Colour and world famous Sassoon of London. During his time with House of Colour, Andrew worked as head colourist and participated in hair competitions. Last year, he won a place on the Dream Team 2014 where he worked on photo shoots, fashion shows, seminars and education. Andrew’s attention to detail, ambition and creative talents are evident in every aspect of his work. Join him as he embarks on this new adventure in his hometown of Bray. Andrew McElroy Hair Concepts, 2 Herbert Road, Bray, Co Wicklow, Ph: 01 2761709.
Andrew McElroy with stylist Hazel Walsh and Louise Merryweather Colour Technician outside the new salon on Herbert Road
16 |SPECIAL REPORT
Rhiannon Healy De La Cruz models for Andrew
wicklowvoice.ie April 16 2015
Lorna Duffin and Nicola Duffin Lyons
Wicklow_Voice_Ad_Layout 1 15/04/2015 12:01 Page 1
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April 16 2015 wicklowvoice.ie
Riona Joyce models one of Andrew’s hairstyles
Andrew McElroy with his parents Dermot and Evelyn McElroy
Vicky Hernon and Ciara Pender
Clidhna Costello, Deirdre Casey, Annmarie Loughrey, Sarah Casey and Ruth Donnelly
wishes Andrew the very best of luck
18 | ADVERTISEMENT wicklowvoice.ie April 16 2015
Buying? Selling? Contact one of our team today e: info@ wicklowvoice.ie w: www. wicklowvoice.ie t: 01 901 5565
SPECIAL REPORT| 19
April 16 2015 wicklowvoice.ie
Small Gardens with Big Ideas with Clodagh Doyle (info@wicklowvoice.ie)
When you think of dining alfresco and a tranquil contemporary stylish outdoor space, does your rear garden immediately spring to mind? For most of us, the honest answer is most definitely not! At this time of year our gardens are usually looking very much unloved and display obvious signs of the months gone by. The grass can often look ruffled and off colour with hedging and shrubs looking somewhat unruly. With a little bit of inspiration and imagination you can create the outdoor space of your dreams – something the whole family can enjoy and
Instead of using your typical plant pots, try and find some useful gems in your local charity shops to create an eye catching feature. Consider installing some wall lights or if you have a tree in your garden look at hanging some solar fairy lighting. Draw out the summer evenings with brightly coloured lanterns, hanging bottle tea light holders or flickering candle light in decorative lanterns. When the sun goes down, you might like to cosy up beside an atmospheric fire pit creating 360° heat. Colourful bunting will add a lovely touch to any summer garden, check out local Wicklow bunting business w w w. b e a u t i f u l b u n t i n g . i e . Now let’s include the children. Creative fun with their own planting area, a fairy garden, a paddling pool and sprayers to name a few.
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benefit from. A general tidy up, addressing anything that might require mending or replacing is a good start. Then, rake, weed and feed your lawn later turning your attention to power washing your paths and patio spaces. You should now have the perfect blank canvas. Instead of settling for your average fence life paint for your garden wood why not check out the fabulous collection of Ronseal garden paints and cuprinol “garden shades” collection available from your local Woodies DIY store. Revive your dog kennel or an old chair with some contrasting colour for a quirky twist. Instantly increase your garden size and appeal with a large outdoor garden mirror. For some interesting options you should check out Avoca in Kilmacanogue, Co Wicklow. If young children tend not to frequent your garden an innovative pond can be a really exciting addition. You could create a rockery with suitable plants and stones and recommended pond plants and even some fish.
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20 | SPECIAL REPORT wicklowvoice.ie April 16 2015
best foot forward
Be kind to your feet as Years of wear and tear can be hard on them. disease, bad circulation, poorly trimmed toenails, and wearing shoes that don’t fit can all have an impact. Foot problems are sometimes the first sign of serious medical conditions so make sure you look after them ... Practice good foot care. Take a look at your feet often; use a mirror to look at the bottoms of you feet. Look for cuts, blisters, and ingrown toenails. Ask a member of your family for help if you need it. If you have diabetes, be sure to check your feet every day. Remember to put your feet up when you are sitting down. This helps the circulation in your feet. So can stretching, walking, or having a gentle foot massage. A warm foot bath is also helpful. Make sure your feet are dry before you put on your shoes. Wear shoes when you're outside. If you are sitting for a long time, stand up and move around every now and then. If you cross your legs, reverse or uncross them often. Don't smoke. If you have a problem with your feet, your family doctor can help, or you can see a doctor who treats feet, called a podiatrist. Make Sure The Shoes Fit • Wearing comfortable shoes that fit well can prevent many foot problems. Here are some tips for making sure your shoes fit: • Shoe size may change as you age, so always have your feet measured before buying shoes. The best time to measure your feet is at the end of the day when your feet are largest. • Most of us have one foot that is larger than the other. Make
sure your shoes fit your larger foot. • Don't buy shoes without trying them on first. Shoe sizes can vary depending on the kind, make, and style. For example, the size you wear for sneakers may not be the same size you need for dress shoes. • Walk in the shoes to make sure they feel right. The heel of the shoe should not slide up and down when you walk.
• Soles should give solid footing and not slip. Thick soles cushion your feet when walking on hard surfaces. • Low-heeled shoes are more comfortable, safer, and less damaging than high-heeled shoes.
ve If you htaes, diabe check o s e b urfeete t every r you y. Visit da betes.ie www.dria o call909 8 1 50 909ore for mation inform
Something's Afoot: Common Problems Fungal infections, such as athlete's foot, happen because our feet are in shoes most of the time. Shoes are warm, dark, and moist—the perfect place for fungus to grow. A fungus can cause dry skin, redness, blisters, itching, and peeling. It can be hard to cure. Overthe-counter anti-fungal powders or creams can help. If your foot does not get better within 2–4 weeks, talk to your doctor.
• Choose a shoe that is shaped like your foot. Styles with high heels or pointed toes can hurt your feet. • Stand up when trying on shoes to make sure there is about 1/2 inch between your toe and the end of the shoe. • Make sure the ball of your foot fits comfortably into the widest part of the shoe. • Don't buy shoes that feel too tight and hope they will stretch. • The upper part of the shoes should be made of a soft, flexible material.
To prevent infections: • Keep your feet clean and dry. Be sure to dry the area between your toes. • Change your shoes and socks or stockings often to help keep your feet dry. • Don't buy tight shoes. • Try dusting your feet every day with talc-free foot powder. • Dry skin can cause itching and burning feet. Use mild soap in small amounts and a cream or lotion on your legs and feet every day. Be careful about adding oils to bath water since they can make your feet and bathtub very slippery.
April 16 2015 wicklowvoice.ie
SPECIAL REPORT| 21
Denis Bruen at Foot Solutions ‘The problem started as I approached retirement age. I had been playing squash and badminton for at least 40 years. Walking was a problem, and then when I was on court, the pain got even worse. A friend suggested I try Foot Solutions. I spoke to a really helpful and sympathetic Foot Solutions associate. She explained why I had the problem, and suggested arch support would
certainly help. I have always been a little wary about “miracle cures”, but from the day I started to wear my new customised arch supports, I never looked back. I am playing better than ever and walking is a pleasure again! I move the arch supports from shoe to shoe, and have now purchased a second pair. Thank you to Foot Solutions!’
Alice’s arthritic knees so much better after a visit to Foot Solutions! Alice originally visited Foot Solutions three years ago, experiencing issues with arthritis in her knees and Plantar Fasciitis. ‘I was having real problems with my knees, so bad that there was talk of having them replaced. Then someone suggested I try Foot Solutions. The store in Stillorgan is perfect for me so I popped in for a consultation. The staff were great and I was impressed that they had all the equipment there to do a full assessment. They designed a pair of customised arch supports for me. The supports had an immediate effect. The pain didn’t disappear completely,
but it no longer stopped me from doing what I want to do in my life. I teach on a part-time basis, so it’s also important that I can stay on my feet for a time period without any discomfort.’ The supports allow Alice to enjoy an active lifestyle. Along with cycling and swimming, she takes her large dog for a daily walk around the Ticknock and Deerpark areas of Dublin. It was on one such walk recently that she fell by accident. ‘I didn’t notice anything immediately, but a couple of days later there was excruciating pain down one side of my back. I had to take prescription pain killers just to get on with my life. Around that time I bought a pair of Pluto sandals in Foot Solutions, just because I loved the look of them. It was amazing. I got relief from the pain the minute I put them on. That improved even further when I started to use the custom insoles I bought earlier. ‘I think Foot Solutions is great value for money. The foot supports weren’t cheap but noticed a real difference the minute I started using them. So yes, popping in to Foot Solutions that first day has made a real difference to my life.’
22 | LIFESTYLE
recipes
SPORT
wicklowvoice.ie April 16 2015
Peter Byrne
Head Chef at Sika Restaurant in The Powerscourt Hotel
Pear and ameretti cheesecake John Duggan of The Martello Hotel in Bray presents a cheque for €880 to Ardmore Rover's Executive Member Grant Walker and the Under 11's B DDSL team from the recent Easter Treasure Hunt and raffle.
Filling
100g Cream Cheese 100g Double Cream 40g Sugar ½ Vanilla Pod 50g diced poached pears 50g crushed ameretti biscuits
Base
50g White Chocolate 65g Praline Paste 25g Cocoa Butter
125g Paillette Feuillatine For the base melt the chocolate, and cocoa butter together. Add the praline paste, mix then fold in the feuillatine. Spread on a sheet of greaseproof paper and set in the fridge on a flat tray for about 30 minutes. In a large bowl add the cream, cheese, sugar and vanilla.
Whisk until it is quite thick and doesn’t drop. Fold in the pears and ameretti biscuits. For the base, use the rings to cut out the base for the cake and place on a separate tray. Using a piping bag, pipe the filling into the moulds and even off at the top using a palette knife. Leave to set for about two hours and then serve.
Arklow Geraldines Ballymoney Minor Ladies team who recently beat Longford 5-19 to 5-03
sport in brief Allianz Cumann na mBunscol The Girls’ Allianz football league county finals will take place in Ballinakill the week of April 20. The Credit Union Cup one day boys’ nine-a-side hurling blitz will be in Bray on April 29 at 1pm. The one day ninea-side camogie blitz will take place in Bray on May 6 at1pm. There will be a Sports Day meeting in Newtownmountkennedy Primary School on May 28 at 8pm. It is imperative that any school participating in Sports Day 2015 is represented at this meeting. The Sports Day is scheduled to take place on June 3 from 10am in Charlesland Sports and Recreational Centre.
An Tochar The ladies adult team was defeated in an away game to St Nicks on April 12. Training continues in preparation for the championship with management very pleased with numbers and attitude by all players. A big thank you for your continued support of our clothes recycling. Collections will continue throughout the
summer. Please continue with your generous donations. The North District team had an unhappy first outing in the SFC vs Kiltegan on April 11. The squad have plenty of time to regroup for the knock-out stages later in the summer.
Arklow Geraldines The next meeting of the executive committee will take place on May 13 at 8pm in the County GAA Board Rooms. There will be a clothing recycling drive in aid of AGB on April 25 at Pearse Park, Vale Road. Please drop off any unwanted clothes, bed linens, blankets, towels, curtains, shoes, bags, belts and soft toys between 10am and 12.30pm. The Under 9’s and 10’s will participate in a Blitz in Carnew on April 18. All players must be registered to take part in this Blitz. The County Feile will be played over a single day this year on April 25. There will be three teams in each group. AGB Under 14 girls have been paired against Tinahely and Valleymount. Wicklow Minor Ladies will play in the semi final of the 2015 Leinster Division 2 Championship on April 18.
Bray Emmets The lotto numbers drawn were 21, 22, 5 and 18. There
was no winner and the next jackpot will be €12,600. The annual club dinner dance takes place on April 24 in The Royal Hotel, Bray. Peil Abu takes place every Thursday at 7pm. It is open to everyone over the age of 18 and costs €5. If interested in taking part, contact Gary on 086 8545100. The men’s junior football team are back training each Wednesday at 7.15pm and Sundays at 10am in Old Conna. If you are interested in playing, contact Ian on 086 85157232.
Garden County Academy
A massive thanks to everyone who participated in our 5k fun run on April 11. A good crowd of over 200 runner/walkers took to the route. The race was won by Tom Hogan in a fantastic time. Photos of winners and runners will be on our website. We would also like everyone who helped out in anyway on the day and in the run up to the event and thanks to Bill Porter for all the work he put into the event.
Shankill GAA There was no winner of the Chase the Ace draw in Brady’s of Shankill which currently has a jackpot of €2,200.
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April 16 2015 wicklowvoice.ie
insideback
with Brian Quigley
‘Magic’ Seagulls off to a flyer
Some of the 200 boys and girls who took part in the Bray Emmets Easter Camp recently - keep an eye out for the upcoming Bray Emmets Mini All Ireland and Summer Camps. There is never a dull moment when you support Bray Wanderers. Two weeks ago Bray were rooted to the bottom of the table, with five losses from five league games. Two further outings in Cup competitions completed the misery, with Alan Matthews’ charges dumped out of the EA Sports Cup by non-league Crumlin United and exiting the Leinster Senior Cup at the hands of Bohemians. On April 1 the news filtered out that the management / coaching team had resigned en masse, citing communication and other issues resulting in a breakdown in relations with the board. I have to be honest and say that for a second or two I thought it was an April Fool’s wind-up. When I realised that it wasn’t I thought the club were in big trouble. How would we field a team for April 3 (just 48 hours away at that stage) away in Sligo? And if we couldn’t, what would that mean for our league status? The club responded with what has proved a stroke of genius. With the U19 season just finished, its coaching staff of Marciej Tarnogrodzki (affectionately dubbed ‘Magic’ by all at the club) and assistant Tom O’Connor were handed the first team reins. They got a positive reaction from the players in training that night and went on to win
3-1 in Sligo, a result few would have predicted. Having captain David Cassidy back certainly helped the cause, the influential midfielder making his first league start of the campaign and chipping in with a hat-trick. Bray continued their winning run back at the Carlisle Grounds on Saturday April 11, beating Limerick 4-0 with second half goals from Adam Hanlon, Emeka Onwubiko, Graham Kelly and (inevitbly!) David Cassidy. It was a joy to watch, and the game was attended by the Polish ambassador as Marciej became the first Polish manager to manage in the SSE Airtricity League. Meanwhile, the Seagulls released a statement which read: ‘’Bray Wanderers is pleased to announce that it has settled its issues with Alan Matthews and his management team, and that no action of any legal nature will be taken,” a statement read. “Bray Wanderers also acknowledges that there was a breakdown in communication and it is determined that such an issue will not arise again in the future. Once again, Bray Wanderers wishes to acknowledge the total commitment of Alan and his team to maintain the club’s Premiership status last season and to prepare the squad for the 2015 season.’’ Chairman Denis O’Connor has also said that all players will be paid this season and that
the oweners were committed to bringing the club forward. “The board and owners of Bray Wanderers are fully committed, as a priority, to sustaining the club’s Premier League status and keeping the club alive financially,” he said. Fionnuala Britton Kilcoole AC’s Fionnuala Britton produced her best-ever result in the SPAR Great Ireland Run on April 11, finishing the 10 kilometer race in second place in a superb time of 33 minutes and seven seconds. Fionnuala finished the race strongly, overtaking Spain’s Alessandra Aguilar in the last kilometer and held her off in a terrific tussle. The race was won by reigning European Cross Country Champion Gemma Steel of England. Fionnuala’s performance is encouragaing news for Iirsh athletics, as the Wicklow athlete prepares for the Olympic marathon in Rio next year. Well done Fionnuala, and to all our athletes who took part last Saturday. Greystones Greystones RFC secured promotion from Division 2B of the Ulster Bank All Ireland Rugby League on Saturday last April 11. Despite a closing day 7-3 reverse away to Sligo, Stones finished third in the table behind Highfield and Armagh, staying above Sunday’s Well. Congratulations!
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