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Band now expected to play on Bray Seafront after all By Michelle McGlynn
THERE was great news for Bray this week after it emerged that the Summerfest Committee have now decided to try to stage one night of music on the bandstand. It is hoped that the hugely popular Smash Hits will take to the stage on the Sunday night of the August bank holiday following the decision. The committee have also agreed to stage one fireworks display on the bank holiday weekend and a craft and food market on the day of the air display on July 19. This move follows weeks of disquiet and speculation in relation to whether the festival would go ahead in any capacity this summer. Last week in a statement released by Bray Summerfest Committee it was confirmed that only the Air Display and funfair would go ahead in 2015. This in effect meant that Bray Summerfest was cancelled, a move confirmed by Committee
Chairman Mick Glynn at the time. However, the Committee is now hoping to apply for the event licence for these extra events within a fortnight. “Ultimately, the decision to reduce the funfair days has left us in a situation where we were not guaranteed funding to 2016,” Mick Glynn told the Wicklow Voice. “So the committee made a decision, they looked at it numerous different ways and they thought the best way was to cut events in 2015 to ensure the financial viability of the air display in 2016.” The controversy that now surrounds the Summerfest began in March when members of Bray Municipal District voted to reduce the number of days that the funfair could run from 24 days to 15. The vote was prompted by a petition which is believed to have over 1,200 signatures from local residents who wished to see the number of days that the funfair runs reduced from 24 days. Continued on next page
Award winner Eileen Neenan Henley at the Bray Emmets Awards in the Royal Hotel last week. » Lots more pictures from around the county inside
would like to s e m o H r e w o T h y involved wit d o b ry e v e k n tha cessful launch c u s s d n e k e e last w klowhills.ie
visit www.wic
01 845 2111 PSRA No. 001560
01 667 1888 PSRA No. 002183
04| NEWS news in brief Commemorations
wicklowvoice.ie April 30 2015
Who’s that with our Martin?
Wicklow Commemorates 1916 is open for applications regarding Wicklow-based events to mark the Centenary. Applications must be received by the Arts Office in Wicklow County Council by noon on May 22. More details can be found at www.wicklow.ie.
Barn dance Delgany National School will hold a barn dance on May 9 at the school from 8pm. There will be a BBQ, dancing, a rodeo bull, a raffle and prizes. Tickets are available on the night at €25 each or two for €40.
Dog show The Festina Lente and Wonder Paws annual dog show and charity bazaar will take place on May 4 in Festina Lente Gardens, Bray from 11am until 4pm. There will be doggie fancy dress parade, face painting, afternoon tea, bric-a-brac stalls, a free agility course, experts on-hand to give advice and much more. It will be a fun day out for dog and family alike.
Martin Flanagan from Greystones in the Dáil with An Taoiseach Enda Kenny. By Michelle McGlynn There’s a new politician in town. Political enthusiast Martin Flanagan enjoyed the unique opportunity of shadowing Taoiseach Enda Kenny for a day. The Greystones man spent a hectic but enjoyable day with An Taoiseach as part of the Irish Association of Supported Employment’s Job Shadow initiative. “I have a lot of experience in advocacy, public speaking and community awareness around the rights for people with disabilities,” explained Martin as he spoke of his
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delight when he was chosen to shadow Mr Kenny. As part of the experience, Martin was afforded the chance to address the Principal Officer with responsibility for Social Policy matters. “I got to talk about the real issues facing people with disabilities such as housing, social inclusion, transport and broadband outside of Dublin,” Martin said of the meeting. “I got across to them the real and difficult experience of living in Ireland with a disability. Including mental health issues.” Martin watched Leader’s
Questions from the viewing gallery as a query from Sinn Fein’s Gerry Adams resulted in some high drama. Before he was introduced to the Fine Gael members of cabinet, Martin was presented with cufflinks and a glass paperweight with a design of Government Buildings etched inside by Mr Kenny. “I left Government Buildings happy after a busy day and I felt it was very successful. “I would like to thank Jackie Coogan from the Taoiseach’s Department for supporting me throughout the day and being so welcoming,” concluded Martin.
That’s just smashing
Continued from previous page Writing in the Wicklow Voice (p.11) Cllr Steven Matthews has said that he is not against the Summerfest and is in possession of the petition and would be prepared to allow a neutral party to view it. In addition, he also also told the Wicklow Voice, “I accept that the cancellation story was also reported by radio media as well as newspapers.” At the time of going to print, a meeting is planned for April 30 between Cathaoirleach of Bray Municipal District John Brady, Wicklow County Council Cathaoirleach Christopher Fox and the festival committee. “Nobody wants to see Summerfest go,” said Cllr Brady. “I look forward to meeting the committee to ensure that the festival continues to go from strength to strength in the coming years.” The licence to be applied for is for the period from July 12 to August 3. Following the statement released by the Summerfest committee last week there has been uproar online. An online petition Save Bray Summerfest was closing in on 1,000 signatures at the time of going to press.
Chauffeur clocks up almost €10,000 in expenses By Michelle McGlynn
A County Wicklow ministerial driver has claimed almost €10,000 in expenses since the beginning of 2014. Kevin Eager claimed the €10k on overnight expenses while driving for two Dublin-based ministers. Eager drove former communications minister, Pat Rabbitte, until July 2014. He was then hired by Aodhán Ó Ríordáin, the equality minister on September 8, 2014. Between this date and February 25 of this year, Eager claimed €3,338. Documents released under the Freedom of Information Act show that the Wicklow driver claimed €107.69 on overnight expenses each time he drove for Rabbitte and Ó Ríordáin in 2014 and at least until the end of February 2015. His expense claim last year was among the highest of any drivers, including those who transport ministers from their departments to constituencies as far as Cork, Donegal and Mayo. The Department of Communications said that a driver living more than 22.5km from the GPO would be eligble to claim for an overnight stay in Dublin. In January 2014, Eager put in a claim for €1, 292 in overnights yet recorded that
he only drove Rabbitte around Dublin that month. Rabbitte lives in Clondalkin in south Dublin while the Department of Communications is based in Adelaide Road, Dublin 2. The details of where Eager spent these nights is not listed in the records released. In total he claimed €7,323 for overnight stays in 2014. The department has said that all expenses paid out to drivers last year were “in full compliance with civil-service travel and subsistence rules.” They said that the figure related to one driver and consisted of a combination of overnight and subsistence payments. The highest claim made was by a driver working for agriculture minister Simon Coveney, who claimed €7,646 in overnight expenses and a further €2,064 for subsistence while driving the minister to and from his home in Cork. Coveney’s second driver claimed €8,702, including €6,677 in overnight expenses, €2,025 in subsistence and €104 on “taxi costs”. The next highest figures were the expenses paid to two drivers working for junior minister Michael Ring. One claimed €7,700 while the other received €8,415. In addition to this, Ring claims about €2,000 a month in mileage.
Chamber awards deadline extended By Michelle McGlynn
Bray Endeavour awards need your nominations! The awards committee have extended the deadline until noon on May 5 so you still have time to nominate the person that you think deserves recognition. The awards recognise those who make a difference to the lives of others or who have
excelled in their fields. Nominating someone couldn’t be simpler, you can email info@ braychamber.ie or post the application form found on p.18 to 10 Prince of Wales Terrace, Bray. The Gala ceremony will take place in the Royal Hotel, Bray on May 22. Tickets are available from the Chamber office for €50.
NEWS |05
April 30 2015 wicklowvoice.ie
wicklow people in pictures
Presentation College Bray transition year students Aidan Lacey, John O’Connor, Benji Bradley, with Aideen Killoran ESRI and teacher Johnny Russell after they won the Best Group Project at the EIrcom Webspiders Awards for their project www.presrugbytv.com
Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport Paschal Donohue TD (right) and Paul Gallagher, Deputy Chairman, ITIC (left) present the Best Adventure Experience Award to Wicklow company Vagabond Adventure Tours represented by Dee Horman, Alison Hughes, Russell Fox, Larry Coady and Rob Rankan at The Irish Tourism Industry Awards 2015 at DoubleTree Hilton Hotel in Dublin. Photo: Peter Houlihan / Fennells
Roseanne Cannon and Noah Connolly Doyle (5) out and about in Wicklow Town
Evanne Ní Chuilinn and Amelia Berry (age 3) announcing details of Bord Bia’s GroMór, a new nationwide campaign to get the country growing. Horkan’s Garden Centre, Glen of the Downs, CountryLife Ashford and Powerscourt Garden Pavillion in Enniskerry are taking part in Wicklow
Pictured in Arklow recently was Aoife Walineb giving a big smile for a little bun (pic Yvette O Beirne)
Jacqueline and Eliza (4) Dowling are all smiles in Greystones
Marie Garvey and Nicola Coady in Wicklow Town
Eoin Feely and Lynette O’Hagan out and about in Greystones.
06| NEWS news in brief Bus service changes A number of services have been put in place to replace Bus Éireann Expressway Route 5 which ceased operation on April 26. Route 132 has been extended to service those travelling between Dublin, Baltinglass, Tullow, Ballon, Kildavin and Bunclody with increased frequency, seven days a week. Wexford Local Link will provide a network of services connecting Route 132 with Route 2 which passes through Arklow.
Tidy Towns The Dulux Painting scheme is underway with the businesses and residents of Main Street receiving the colour scheme earlier this week. Dulux will be providing the paint at cost to everyone involved.
Golf classic Charlesland Golf Club are holding a Golf Classic in aid of Greystones Cancer Support on May 1. A team of four, including dinner, is €200 or early bird rate before midday is €160. To reserve your tee time call Shay on 087 2304236.
wicklowvoice.ie April 30 2015
Wicklow’s wealthy County features strongly on Rich List 2015 By Michelle McGlynn
Wicklow features heavily in the Sunday Times 250 Richest in Ireland 2015 list. Former Wicklow residents Hilary and Galen Weston and their family topped the list for the sixth consecutive year. The Weston family fortune is estimated to be worth €15 billion. Since the publication of the previous list the Westons have seen their worth more than double. The family own Brown Thomas, the Dublin department store, and Selfridges in the UK. British born Galen, chairs and controls 62.5% of George Weston, one of north America’s largest food processors. At number 17, Wicklowbased Declan Ryan along with his brother Shane is worth €766 million. Declan has donated over €30 million to 35 non-profit organisations in Ireland and Vietnam.
Declan’s late father, Tony, cofounded Ryanair and GPA. Declan runs Irelandia Investments which has increased the money the family made from Ryanair. Next up at number 69 is property tycoon Ken Rohan whose wealth comes to €171 million. Ken, who is based in Wicklow, owns 54% of Airspace Investments which is an Irish,
UK and Barbados commercial property firm. His children Alison, David and Jamie, who run the company, have 14.8% each. Just short of making the top 100, Liam and Dermot McKenna have a combined fortune of €127 million. Liam and Dermot run and own Wicklow-based electrical retailer Power City. A new entry in the annual list,
news in brief Suas Sios
Sir Daniel Day-Lewis and his wife Rebecca, have ranked 218 with €62 million. Wicklow resident Day-Lewis earned a knighthood in 2014 and earns approximately €6 million per film. The actor is the only person to win the Academy Award for best actor three times. The multi-award winning actor is a devotee of method acting and once spent 48 hours
in a prison cell without food or water to prepare for playing Gerry Conlon in In the Name of the Father. His wife, Rebecca is a writer and film-maker and is the daughter of playwright Arthur Miller. The couple have two sons and own homes in New York and Connecticut in addition to their Wicklow property. Finally, another new entry, Liam and Kathleen Quinn from Baltinglass just make the list at 249 with €55 million. The couple own Quinn’s of Baltinglass which is one of the largest privately owned agriculture merchants in the country. Arklow-native Greg Kavanagh appeared at number nine in the Sunday publication’s Ireland’s Young Rich with €10 million. Although he did not appear in the top 250 wealthiest, Wicklow builder Greg has numerous plans in development at the moment including at the former La Touche hotel site.
Goose on the loose!
Kila are celebrating the release of their new CD Suas Sios with a special concert at Hot Spot Music Club, Greystones on May 1. Tickets available by phone on 087 2917519 or by dropping in to Vintage La Touche.
Info morning North Wicklow Educate Together secondary school are holding an information morning for families of children due to start second level in 2016 and 2017. The presentation will be held in the Wilton Hotel, Southern Cross, Bray on May 9 from 11am until 1pm and children are welcome to attend.
Heritage group The Kilcoole Heritage Group will hold their annual AGM in the Mill Room of Byrne’s Pub, Kilcoole on May 5 at 8pm. At the meeting there will be a report from the Kilcoole Gun Running Commemoration event and screening of festival short film. Plus, an exciting announcement of a major event being planned in June 2016 - Kilcoole Remembers 1916.
The Bar-headed Goose spotted in Arklow (pic Yvette O Beirne) By Michelle McGlynn Arklow photographer Yvette O’Beirne got a pleasant surprise while out by a local duck pond. Luckily, Yvette had her camera on hand when she spotted the rare bar-headed goose. The bird, whose appearance is similar to a goose crossed with a heron, was very friendly and looking to be fed along with all the other ducks according to Yvette. A bar-headed goose is distinguished from other grey geese by the black bars found on its head. The rare bird breeds in Central Asia and is often kept in captivity. Appearances of the bird in this part of the world have been put
down to breeding following an escape from captivity. The Asian goose is considered the world’s highest flying bird and can fly over the Himalaya - the world’s tallest mountain range - in only eight hours according to National Geographic. The birds completed this ascent under their own muscular power, with almost no help from tail winds or updrafts. The ability to fly in such high altitudes is achieved with a simple trick: hyperventilation. Unlike humans, bar-headed geese can breathe in and out very rapidly without getting dizzy or passing out. Keep your eyes peeled the next time you’re feeding the ducks and you might just meet the bar-headed goose yourself.
April 30 2015 wicklowvoice.ie
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08| NEWS
wicklowvoice.ie April 30 2015
Mickey Mouse studio space will cost jobs - Disney By Michelle McGlynn
The Head of Walt Disney’s Irish division has warned that Wicklow will lose out on potential investment and jobs unless additional film studio space is created. Despite tax breaks introduced by the Irish Government, Wicklow continues to lose out on business to the UK as we do not have the facilities to cater for them. “As the industry picks up, it’s going to become more and more difficult, because if someone has a need for studio space and it can’t be filled here, right on our doorstep is the UK - which has the most amazing infrastructure of studio space,” warned Trish Long, general manager of Walt Disney Studio’s Irish distribution business. Ms Long is not the first person to raise this issue. Chief Executive of Ardmore Studios, Siún Ní Raghallaigh,
called on the Government to invest in the audiovisual industry in November of last year. Speaking to the Wicklow Voice previously, Ms Ní Raghallaigh said, “There is enormous potential to expand Ireland’s footprint for film making, both in Wicklow and in other parts of the country.” Ms Ní Raghallaigh stated that Ardmore had already turned away business simply because they did not have the required capacity. It has been estimated that Ireland is currently turning away interested international projects each generating €30m to €50m per year in local expenditure and each creating 350 to 500 jobs. Meanwhile, Northern Ireland, who are currently host to the phenomenally popular Game of Thrones series, has created more studio space in the last six years than this country has in total and
they recently announced plans to double their current capacity. Northern Ireland Screen have a €60 million fund to attract productions. “There is a greater tax break here now than ever and a lot of people making films can work in the North, in the UK and in Ireland and the tax-break environment would be very supportive of that,” said Ms Long. Wicklow has already benefited greatly from productions such as Vikings and Penny Dreadful which film in Ashford Studios and Ardmore Studios respectively. Ardmore currently employ over 500 people at their Bray studios and it estimated that it contributes approximately €50m to the local economy. Currently, Ashford Studios, home to The Vikings, have plans for a €50m expansion that will more than treble its size and create upwards of 1,000 jobs.
April 30 2015 wicklowvoice.ie
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10 | OPINION
opinion&comment Spring Statement highlights missed opportunities
T
uesday’s Spring Economic Statement is an opportunity for us all to start talking about the country we want to live in, and want our kids to grow up in. Should we focus on becoming a lower-tax economy, or start investing in enterprise, in public services like education and health, and in supporting communities? The short answer for me is the latter. The economy is growing again and unemployment is falling, which is great news. In their Dáil speeches on Tuesday, Government ministers worked hard to convince us that this is their doing. It is not. In fact, had they made the right choices over the past four years, we would have reached this good news a lot sooner. Minister Noonan spoke of the ‘Lost Decade’ – meaning it’ll be about 10 years before the economy gets back to the size it was in 2007. The phrase comes from Mexico in the 1980’s, which also took 10 years to recover from its recession. If it’s taken Ireland as long to recover as it took Mexico 30 years ago, it’s fair to say that the previous government, and this one, have not performed well. The economic and jobs growth comes mainly from two sources – the ECB and the resilience of Irish enterprise. When Mario Draghi took over the Presidency of the European Central Bank, ECB, from Jean Claude Trichet, he changed tack on monetary policy. Where Trichet demanded austerity, Draghi believes in using money to boost growth. In 2012 he said the ECB would do ‘whatever it takes’ to preserve the euro. This increased confidence in the currency, reducing borrowing costs for Ireland and other Eurozone countries. He followed this with something called Quantitative Easing. In essence, the ECB is printing vast sums of money and lending it to Eurozone banks at zero interest. The result? Mortgage rates fall, businesses can borrow and invest, and the euro depreciates, increasing tourism and the competitiveness of Irish exports. And what of the resilience of the Irish people? ESRI analysis shows that about 60% of the economic growth comes from increased labour productivity – both private and public sector workers have had to do more with less – and they have. To be fair, some Government policies have worked, and added to employment. In Wicklow, JobBridge is being used to transition people into full-time paid employment, when there otherwise wouldn’t be the money to do so. But far, far more should have, and could have been done. The mortgage crisis, now in its seventh year, has become the biggest of its kind anywhere on earth. It could have been sorted out years ago. Supports for SMEs and the
self-employed could have been stronger – like improving how local authority rates are calculated and equalising tax treatment between self-employed and PAYE workers. Public works could have been pushed sooner, like the national broadband strategy. Childcare costs could have been reduced at no cost to the State. Budgets could have been progressive (those with more are asked to contribute more), rather than the four regressive budgets in a row we’ve seen. Last year, for example, the budget transferred wealth from the poorest 10 per cent to the wealthiest. The evidence is unambiguous on this – policies that drive inequality hinder economic growth and job creation (plus, in my opinion, they’re just plain wrong). So what now? There’s a big push from government to reduce taxes. The philosophy, implemented consistently over the past four years, is that economic growth lies with the rainmakers, the masters of the universe, and so government policy should increase the wealth of the wealthy. That will, in turn, help everyone else. It’s the philosophy of Regan and Thatcher, and has no economic or social merit. In fact, rising inequality has been identified at Davos (the world’s billionaires club) as one the two greatest threats to society. Ireland is already a low tax economy. Some taxes need to be altered, like equalising taxation for the self-employed and PAYE workers. But we must start investing in the future – in things like education and healthcare, in pension provisioning, in enterprise supports, and in supporting work in the community. People don’t mind paying their taxes if they know the money is being respected and is being invested in them, in their children, and in the future of their country. If we’re to continue to compete internationally in the next ten years, we need to get our house in order – that means bringing everyone out of the lost decade, and investing so that we don’t lose any more of them. .
Stephen Donnelly is the Independent TD for Wicklow and East Carlow, and a member of the Dáil Technical Group. He quit the Oireachtas Banking Inquiry, saying the Taoiseach had subverted the will of the Oireachtas by ensuring a Government majority on it.
“I
Marriage won’t turn gay couples into great parents but it doesn’t do that for straight couples either.
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
with Stephen Donnelly with Michael Wolsey
Why I’ll be saying ‘I do’ to gay marriage
should be a staunch advocate of marriage seeing as I was very happily married for more than 40 years. When my wife died suddenly last year I was devastated. I still am. But I believe the joy we shared had more to do with partnership than marriage. Would life have been any different if we had never walked up an aisle, exchanged rings, said ‘I do’? I don’t think so. We considered ‘living in sin’ but that, as the quaint terminology suggests, was taboo in Ireland at the time and so, for the sake of our families, we decided to conform to the rules. Young people today have no such inhibitions and feel free to make up their own minds. I have two daughters who live in unmarried partnerships and a third who is married. Their relationships are, as far as I can judge, equally stable and equally happy. My friends include couples who are married, were married, may get married and have not the slightest intention of getting married. Their happiness, or lack of it, seems in no way related to the presence or absence of wedding rings or a church’s blessing. I don’t believe the institution of marriage is all that important and I do believe that issues about custody, property and inheritance can be perfectly well covered by a civil partnership. But not being an advocate of marriage does not mean I wish to stop anyone else from getting married. I would not dream of voting for a law to ban marriage and, if such a ban existed, I would certainly vote to remove it. That’s why I will be voting Yes in the marriage equality referendum. The people I number among my friends include some gay couples and, on the issue of marriage, they divide much like everyone else. Some would like to be married, some would not. But my straight friends have the choice and they do not. I don’t really understand the urge to marry but I will not deny that right to anyone, straight or gay. In this column, a few months back, I told of meeting a gay man I had gone to school with back in the 1960s. The story bears a brief retelling. For the purposes of this article I’ll call him Dave. Back in school days we called him queer and lovey and ducks and sniggered behind his back, bending our wrists and fluttering our lashes. We thought it was a great joke. Dave thought he was in hell; a hell he escaped from each evening only to be forced
back the next day. I know this because he told me so - 50 years later, he still feels the pain. He’s a successful businessman now, running his own firm and that suits him well because, as he said, “nobody can laugh at the boss’’. For a moment I was at a loss. Why would anybody laugh? And then he told me, quite simply, without any great emotion, about the awful time he had endured at school; how he had felt a freak, an outsider, a weirdo wrestling with feelings he didn’t understand himself. And how much harm we had done him with words we all thought harmless. And so I was granted the rare gift of being able to stand in someone else’s shoes; to see ourselves as others see us. It wasn’t a pretty sight but it made one thing abundantly clear: those of us who belong to the great consensus, who are members of the broad church of public opinion, simply do not understand what it is like to be outside the fold,. Being inside the fold, I find the demand for gay marriage difficult to understand. Civil partnerships would do the job fine, I think. What’s all the fuss about? But it really doesn’t matter what I think because the issue of gay marriage should not be determined by the views of those it does not concern. The marriage of two men, or two women, cannot harm me so why should I stand in their way? The No camp say I should vote with them for the sake of the children. But this referendum is not about adoption or surrogacy. Those issues have already been decided by a democratic Dáil vote that can always be rescinded by the same means. Marriage won’t turn gay couples into great parents but it doesn’t do that for straight couples either. My unmarried friends are neither better nor worse parents than their married counterparts and the only gay parents I know personally - two women - have made an extraordinarily good job of bringing up their son. Allowing couples of the same gender to marry will do nobody any harm and will do some people some good. So, for the sake of Dave and all who live outside the fold, I hope you will be joining me on the Yes side on May 22.
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 30 2015 wicklowvoice.ie
anyotherbusiness
Have you got a story? Then email info@wicklowvoice.ie
I am not anti-Summerfest
F
irstly I am not antiSummerfest and have never levelled any criticism at the committee. Recently Bray Municipal District voted to reduce the number of days the funfair runs during the Summerfest as part of an overall updating of our seafront policy but did not seek to eliminate the funfair or reduce any other aspect of Summerfest . There were a number of other changes and updates (see below) . The changes do not come into effect until 2016 and the festival this year remains untouched. The objective of the amendments was create a fairer seafront usage policy however, there seems to have been an attempt to turn this into pro and anti Summerfest campaign. I have a huge amount of respect for the many volunteers who give their time and energy to working at the festival.
Summerfest ‘cancelled’? The council did not ‘cancel’ the summerfest. Any changes to this years festival have been decided by the festival committee. In fact it remains to be seen if the festival actually is cancelled as the only time this word has been used in any kind of official capacity was as a headline in a local paper*. The commit-
Steven Matthews tee has not verified that the festival is cancelled and in fact one committee member confirmed that it was NOT cancelled (posting on a local forum) however this was later retracted by other committee members. The petition The petition was created in response to a large amount of complaints and concerns I received from local residents. It was carried out in conjunction with the Seafront Area Residents Association. It is my belief that all Bray residents and visitors to our town will benefit from a FAIR usage policy in relation to the seafront. Fair usage in my opinion includes the use of the public land for the festival, however not for nearly five weeks of funfair (including set up and take down) that precludes many people from enjoying the green space. As a public representative I listened to residents comments about how their quality of life was affected every summer. I also
listened to people from other areas of Bray who told me they would not visit the seafront during the summer because of the funfair. Many people have commented that the beach belongs not just to the local residents but to everyone in Bray and I agree. Those who enjoy the summerfest should be free to do so. Those who enjoy the green space should also be free to do so. A fifteen day funfair (21 days including set up and take down) and full programme of other festival events is a compromise between these two viewpoints.
for a ‘neutral’ party to view the petition. However I will not hand over names and addresses of residents to people demanding heads on a plate.
The signatures The petition was gathered by calling door to door in the east ward, and names were also collected at schools and on the promenade. 900 names were collected in time for the event license submission in 2013 and approximately 300 more were collected after that. Obviously some people were not at home when the call was made. Many expressed their reservations at signing due to the possibility of a negative reaction from others or a fear of putting themselves in the spotlight. Some cited fear of ‘the council’, others ‘the people who run the seafront’. Having read some of the abusive comments online directed at myself and others I can understand their reasons. In the interests of transparency I am happy
The money trail The seafront area is one of the most lucrative in the country for a funfair to operate. Since 2004 my colleagues on Bray Town Council have asked for accounts and information on how the green space is used, how much was being paid for its use, to whom the money was paid and what financial benefit was accruing to the Council. In 2008 I proposed that the use of the green space be put up for open tender. (See council minutes budget Meeting 08/01/08). Until the last meeting (March 23rd 2015) these accounts were never provided. The figures presented at that meeting, percentages produced in 2013, the figures stated on various forums, and a figure stated by the summerfest director recently have generated many more questions that need to be answered. My objective has only ever been a fair usage policy for the seafront - for residents, business, seafront users from all parts of the town and for Summerfest to operate profitably and successfully. There are many people studying the finances and that may be the subject of inquiry for a separate entity in the future, which I would
Fun Fair can operate from 24 to 15 from 2016 onwards. Once the BMD decision was taken it couldn’t be reversed or even debated again for six months. In the aftermath of the March 23 vote and again this week after the Summerfest committee announcement, a lot of abuse and vitriol has been directed at all involved. This is completely unacceptable. People are doing their best, whether at council level or volunteer level. You can’t question people’s sincerity and motives in such an abusive and negative fashion. True, there has been a lack of joined up thinking here, starting with the council vote or maybe before it. And there are consequences to that lack of planning, lack of communication, whatever. But we need to look at it in a solution-driven way. The economics of the situa-
tion are simple, as I see it. The Summerfest Fun Fair needs to operate for the longer time period in order to generate sufficient revenues to offset the monies it pays to the Summerfest committee, which uses all of the same money to stage the wide range of events we know and love and have become accustomed to. A reduced residency on the seafront for the Fun Fair means not as much money can be charged by the Summerfest committee, and this means it is immediately compromised and challenged in its ability to stage the festival on the scale we have been used to. In effect the festival would have to be scaled back – which makes no sense given how successful and enjoyable it is. It should continue to grow, not start to shrink.
be happy to assist with.
Council meetings In April 2014 Bray Town Council recommended that the incoming Municipal District should reduce the duration of the funfair. This meeting was attended by a full council which included the Summerfest director who was also a county councillor (FG) and another former councillor (Labour) who left the meeting before he had to cast his vote. At every council meeting for the previous 5 years these councillors voted to allocate funds to Summerfest. At our March meeting (02/03/2015) I proposed amendments to the seafront policy to reduce the funfair, remove the trailers and trucks from the area during the festival, reinstate the Victorian seatbacks and lamp posts and prohibit casual trading of alcohol on the green space.
Consulting the Committee The committee were always fully aware and informed of any council decisions and proposals. The summerfest director was a serving councillor on Bray Town Council for the previous five years and the town’s district administrator is member of the Summerfest committee.
would seem that Summerfest over the past 10 years may have been dealing with well in excess of 1m euro the majority of which is earned from the use of public open space, council contributions, Failte Ireland, publicans and other sources. The figure may well be higher but there are no audited accounts to prove this. The director of summerfest recently stated that they don’t need accounts. Asking for audited accounts Is it any harm to ask for audited accounts? Is it wrong to ask that public open space be used in a transparent and accountable way? Is it reasonable to allow seafront users to have the green space free for a little more of the summer and ask the funfair to reduce to two weeks and a bank holiday. I spoke with the operators and they can set up and make profit in the 15 days. Our seafront is a wonderful attraction for many reasons for many people from all over the town and county. We can still have a Summerfest that satisfies everyone with a two week funfair.
Audited accounts From the scarce figures provided to the council recently it
* I accept that the cancellation story was also reported by radio media as well as the Wicklow Voice. Steven Matthews is a graduate of DIT Planning and Environmental Management and Green Party councillor.
I understand that councillors need to govern local government affairs, which include the use of the seafront. But personally I can’t think of a better use of our seafront than allowing the Fun Fair to operate for as long as the Summerfest wants and needs it to operate. Surely all our interests – residents, councillors, visitors and businesses – have as a common goal the maximising of revenues for the local economy and the portrayal of our seaside town as a welcoming, fun place especially in summer. Surely we all, council included, should be only too delighted the dedicated volunteers that run Summerfest have been doing all this? Sometimes when you make a mistake you need to come out and say it and try to move on, try to find a solution, even at the eleventh hour. Lots of people
feel BMD have made one here. Others feel the Summerfest committee should have persevered with the festival for 2015 in the hope that the council vote would be reversed later in the year to allow for the status quo to be maintained in 2016 and beyond. One thing is for sure, just because the Air Show is still going ahead this year doesn’t mean everything is going to be OK. The Air Show is great but it just one day, one event. You can’t just hope that a few more events, musical or artistic, will fall into place and that this will constitute a Summerfest by another name. The announcement by the Summerfest committee means the wheels have come off this marvellous showcase vehicle for our town, and they can’t be easily put back on.
Level of abuse is unacceptable
T
he road to hell is paved with good intentions … T h e announcement last week by the Bray Summerfest committee that this year’s festival will not go ahead was a sad moment in the history of the town, with knock-on effects for the county as a whole. Bray Summerfest has been one of the most successful festivals of its kind in the country, having been built up and organised annually on a volunteer basis over 33 years. In recent years the month-long festivities have attracted annually upwards of 130,000 visitors to the local community and injected around €8m into the local economy. Not bad for a volunteerbased effort, and the revenue
Brian Quigley it brought in every year was much needed as we were mired in recession. I shudder to think where we would have been without this money. There was a fear amongst many the announcement was imminent ever since Bray Municipal District [BMD] councillors voted on March 23 to amend the Seafront Usage Policy, in effect reducing the number of days the Summerfest
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12 | WHAT’S HOT WILDLIFE
with Justin Ivory
Blackbird (Photo courtesy of J C Ivory)
Free Choral Recital Who? What? Where? When? Why? Who – local homegrown talent will be joined by international choristers who have recently flown into Ireland to take up a summer residency. What – for some the performance will be very familiar, while for others the repertoire will be entirely new. Where – Killruddery House and Gardens, Bray. When – Sunday 3rd May at 5am. Why – to celebrate IDCD. “What on earth is IDCD?” I hear you ask. “What sort of choral performance takes place at 5am?” IDCD stands for International Dawn Chorus Day and the performers in question are of course birds – our own local resident birds and recently arrived spring migrants. International Dawn Chorus Day is celebrated on the first Sunday of May every year. It all started in the 1980s when broadcaster and environmentalist Chris Baines asked everyone to attend his 40th birthday party in his Birmingham garden at 4am so they could enjoy the dawn chorus with him. Since then it has gone from strength to strength with dawn chorus events taking place all over the globe to celebrate natures’ daily showstopper. Why do birds sing at dawn? Birds sing at dawn because it’s quiet. Singing at dawn is thought to be 20 times more effective than singing at midday when there is more background noise. Why do birds sing in spring? The increased daylight as spring approaches triggers a chemical response in the brains of male birds. This puts them into breeding mode and the singing begins. But why do birds sing at all? Two reasons: to attract a mate and defend their territory. So come along to Killruddery this Sunday morning at 5am and enjoy the show at first hand. Yours truly may well be there to lend a helping hand to leader for the day, Éanna O’Flynn. Pre- booking is essential.
wicklowvoice.ie April 30 2015
Kid’s activity of the week The Murrough playground Murrough playground, Wicklow Town The Murrough playground has been officially opened. After lots of hard work, the playground is looking fantastic. Children up to 12 years of age can now enjoy a pirate-themed playground with lots to entertain the kids including a couple of ships. The playground is the last addition to recent works along the Wicklow Town seafront which includes an outdoor gym and a new asphalted promenade. The playground has been designed to facilitate children with special needs - something local councillor Pat Kavanagh pursued since the playground was first announced. The playground is a fantastic addition to the area. Children will love playing in their brand new playground as the summer weather arrives. Why not bring the family down for a visit this weekend?
Gourmet treat of the week La Touche Wines Gourmet Day La Touche Wines, La Touche Place, Greystones, May 3, 2pm5pm La Touche Wines are hosting a Gourmet Day this bank holiday weekend in conjunction with Summervilles of Greystones. Treat yourself to a selection of food offerings designed by the wonderful head chefs at Summerville. There will be a range of wines expertly selected to compliment the food. It will be a fantastic and fun day out with music on hand to add to the atmosphere. You can enjoy a Sheridan’s cheese plate/Antipasta plate with a bottle of Muriel Reserve Rioja or Peter Yealands Sauvignon (NZ) for €20. Hop on the DART and bring your friends for a fun - and delicious - day out.
book of the week Sons + Fathers Edited by Kathy Gilfillan Wicklow residents Daniel Day-Lewis and John Boorman are among the international writers, actors, artists, musicians, politicians and entrepreneurs who make up the star-studded cast contributing to Sons + Fathers. Among the contributors to the book are Neil Jordan, Colin Farrell, all the members of U2, Bob Geldof, Julian Lennon, Roddy Doyle, Salman Rushdie, former president Bill Clinton and Alastair Campbell. The global book of words and images was inspired by Bono who donated tender drawings he made of his father towards the end of his life. These formed the foundation of this remarkable anthology of personal contributions. Proceeds of the book go to the Irish Hospice Foundation (IHF) Nurses for Night Care service which provided 43 nights of care in the Wicklow and Kildare region in 2014. The service provides free nursing care at home annually to people with a non-malignant terminal illness.
TV SHOW of the week Penny Dreadful
Sky Atlantic, Tuesdays, 10pm Filmed right here in Wicklow, gothic drama Penny Dreadful returns to our screens. In this season, Vanessa (Eva Green) and Ethan (Josh Hartnett) form a deeper bond as the group including Sir Malcolm (Timothy Dalton), Dr Frankenstein (Harry Treadaway) and Sembene (Danny Sapani) unite to banish the evil forces that threaten to destroy them. Meanwhile, Dorian
Event of the week Bray Jazz Festival Various locations, Bray, May 1-4 This May bank holiday sees the welcome return of the Bray Jazz Festival. There are a wide range of events and workshops taking place over the course of the weekend. These include Dublin City Jazz Orchestra at the Mermaid Arts Centre on May 1, Kyai Jati Roso at the Town Hall on May 2 and Havana Che at the Martello on May 3. One gig not to be missed is the Square Pegs at the Harbour Bar on May 4 at 10pm. After closing the festival last year, the ‘supergroup’ are back for more. Square Pegs combine jazz, rock and blues and are known for their work with Van Morrison, The Corrs, Damien Dempsey, The Commitments and more. Be sure not to miss this bluesy goodtime gig.
Gray (Reeve Carney), the Creature (Rory Kinnear) and Brona (Billie Piper) are all waging battles of their own. Patti LuPone will guest star as a mysterious character of great importance in Vanessa’s past. Helen McCrory returns as Evelyn Poole aka Madame Kali, who will pose a unique threat to the protagonists this season. Additional guest stars include Douglas Hodge as a Scotland Yard investigator and Sarah Greene as Poole’s powerful daughter, Hecate.
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MOVIE of the week Big Game Gaiety Cinema, Arklow Ever wondered what it would be like if Samuel L Jackson was the US president? Well wonder no more because Big Game is here. The president is on the run from terrorists in this gripping action-adventure set in remote Finland. Oskari is a 13-year-old Finnish boy, who, while on a hunting mission to prove his maturity, discovers none other than the president of the United States in the wilderness of Finland. It transpires that he has just escaped from Air Force One after the presidential jet was attacked and grounded by terrorists. Stranded on the ground without his normal security back-up, the president must rely on the cooperation of young Oskari against the terrorists who are intent on capturing their own ‘big game’. This is the most expensive Finnish film ever made and boasts an impressive international cast including Jim Broadbent, Felicity Huffman and Victor Garber.
HOROSCOPES
Competition of the week Lovewicklow Wicklow Arts Festival, May 23 and 24 Lovewicklow is a multimedia community arts-for-all competition which is open to everyone of any age or ability. You are invited to submit a song, a photograph, a poem, a story or a piece of art. The theme of the competition is What I love about Wicklow. Your inspiration will come from the Garden County, its people and its beauty. Winners
will be invited to take part in a free workshop on their subject as well as seeing or performing their work in public exhibition during the Wicklow Arts Festival. There will be live performances or musical and written winners’ entries. Submissions are invited under the following headings: music, visual art, photography and writing. Entries will be divided into three age categories: under 13, 13-18 and over 18. Please send applications to lovewicklow@gmail.com by May 8.
Fundraiser of the week Yellow Welly fun run Coral Leisure Centre, Seaview Avenue, Ferrybank, May 2, 11am
Gemini- This week is a 7 Good news sparks a buying streak. Planning benefits more than action. Discuss love and other mysteries. Ignore gossip. Cancer- This week is an 8 Unexpected money comes in. Finish the paperwork. Replenish reserves and pay bills. Start making travel plans. Keep to a small bag.
Virgo- This week is a 6 Discover deep beauty in silence. Find exquisite peace in music. You’re especially intuitive and sensitive today. Depend on your teammates.
GIG of the week May Bank Holiday at Pluck’s Pluck’s of Kilmacanogue, May 1-3 Pluck’s have plenty of gigs scheduled for the month of May and their bank holiday line-up is not to be missed. Kicking off the long weekend will be Frank on May 1 with sounds from the 60’s right up to today. Dublin four-piece In Focus will take to the stage on May 2. The lads always give an
Home improvement idea of the week
Is your furniture looking faded or worn-out? Have you recently moved and your lounge doesn’t suit your room? Or are you just simply tired of the colour of your furniture and want a change? Whatever the reason you have for wanting to recover your furniture, Loose Covers have the solution. Loose Covers make removeable slipcovers that are not only designed to fit your furniture, but also your lifestyle and your budget. Loose Covers will give your furniture a stylish new look, that will enhance and protect for years. Furniture covers are available in a wide choice of fabric colours and patterns all of which are easy to move and easy to wash. One simple change could spruce up your whole house.
Taurus- This week is a 6 Discover an unexpected gift at home. Someone is thrilled to help you celebrate. Communications don’t go far, keep it to a family gathering.
Leo- This week is an 8 Others admire your good attitude. You’re especially confident today and tomorrow. Unexpected beauty rains down. As always, your friend stands by you.
Arklow Lifeboat are holding a 5K fun run and 10K run over the May bank holiday weekend. They are looking to get clubs and businesses involved by putting in a team of four and wearing club jerseys or promoting your business. The event is chip and pinned and costs €10 for the 5K or €15 for the 10K. There is a prize for the first Emergency Services team and also a prize for the first club/business team. You can register online at www.athletictimings.com or on the morning in the main hall of Coral Leisure from 9.30am. Body Fat Testing will be taking place in the leisure centre from 9.30am until noon for a cost of €1 which will go direct to the Lifeboat. For further information contact Liz Bermingham 087 2368698.
Irish Loose Covers Fleenstown, The Ward, Co Dublin, 01 8350716, www.irishloosecovers.com
Aries- This week is a 7 Infuse your work with love and spontaneous fun. Include secret touches. Use the best ingredients you can find.
energetic performance and can get any crowd up dancing. The group have been getting a lot of attention lately, appearing on TG4’s Busk Abu a competition for Irish buskers. Finally, Wicklow favourites Take 2 will wind up the weekend’s activities on May 3. There’s plenty of reason to get down to Pluck’s of Kilmac this bank holiday weekend. Pictured are In Focus.
Libra- This week is a 7 Unexpected benefits arrive for your community. It’s okay to upgrade equipment. Share generously. Celebrate love with friends. Scorpio- This week is a 7 A professional risk could pay off big. Take on a leadership role. It’s okay if you don’t know how. Listen and learn through your heart. Sagittarius- This week is a 7 Discover an unexpected treasure along the road. Consider a breakdown as a challenge. Stop to savor what you’ve found. You can catch up later. Capricorn- This week is a 6 Consider a friend’s suggestion carefully. Be willing to learn a new method to minimize financial risks. An increase in account balances is possible. Aquarius- This week is an 7 A new opportunity tempts. Don’t say much until you’re sure. Collaboration could lead to an increase in income. Exercise restraint with the urge to impulsively spend Pisces- This week is an 8 Postpone a financial discussion. Pay attention to providing excellent service. Passion moves mountains. Devise a plan. Stay cool.
14 |WEDDINGS
wicklowvoice.ie April 30 2015
Love is in the air as 981 couples wed By Michelle McGlynn
A recent report has revealed that Wicklow is one of the most loved-up counties in the East. Wicklow has the fourth highest marriage rate in Leinster according to figures released by the Central Statistics Office (CSO). In 2014, 981 marriages took place in the Garden County this includes civil marriages. Dublin City topped the region with 2,704 ceremonies occurring which is more than double that of Kildare who came in second. The majority of couples who wed in 2014 found the
love of their life right here in Wicklow. Only 80 Wicklow brides went outside the county to find their better half while 57 grooms ventured beyond county lines to find their partner. Wicklow residents are leaving it later to get married, a trend which has been growing in recent years. The majority of men in the county get married in their 30’s with an average age of 36. Women in the Garden County tend to get married slightly younger, usually between 25 and 35, but the average age is similar to the men at 34 years old.
This trend can be largely put down to the recession as people are enjoying longer engagements as they save money for their big day. Another factor is that many young people prioritise their career and want to travel before they settle into married life. Summer weddings are by far the most popular choice for Irish people as July and August 2014 saw almost 6,000 ceremonies take place. Friday is the busiest day for nuptials, closely followed by Saturday but Sunday is not very popular with only 407 weddings taking place on a Sunday in 2014.
The Pigeon House Café, delgany The Delgany Inn, Delgany Village, 01 2877103, www.pigeonhouse.ie Enjoy your wedding at The Pigeon House Cafe, Delgany located in the picturesque Garden County. The Pigeon House café prides itself on its reputation for fine food and excellent service, recently awarded best newcomer at the Irish Restaurants Awards ceremony. Situated in the heart of Delgany Village with extensive private parking, capable of catering for up to 120 people, this spacious and contemporary dining
room makes it a perfect choice for an alternative venue for your wedding party. They work closely with the newlyweds in planning every detail to ensure that the day is a huge success. Menus can be tailored to suit all your party needs. For guests who want to avail of overnight accommodation close by see recommended hotels and guest houses within 10 mins drive: The Parkview Hotel, Newtownmountkennedy; The Ritz Carlton, Powerscourt; The Glenview Hotel and Leisure Club and The Horse and Hound bar and guest house.
Big day,
bright ideas
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Summerhill House Hotel, Enniskerry Enniskerry, Co Wicklow, 01 2867928, www. summerhillhousehotel.com If you are looking for a country house hotel wedding then getting married at the Summerhill House Hotel is definitely worth your consideration. One of Wicklow and South Dublin’s most popular wedding venues, the Summerhill House Hotel can provide a host of suitable wedding packages including hosting your wedding ceremony. The Summerhill House Hotel offer a selection of All-Inclusive
Wedding Packages from midweek at €45.00 per person and weekends starting at €55.00 per person as well as tailor made options. Every Sunday is a Wedding Open Day, where you can find out more about the wedding facilities. The Summerhill House Hotel can now provide wedding couples with their complete wedding package including the opportunity to host your Civil Ceremony or partnership. If you wish for a more traditional Church Ceremony, there are also many churches in the area.
Druids Glen Resort Newtownmountkennedy, Co Wicklow, 01 2870811, www.druidsglenresort.com The award-winning five-star Druids Glen Resort is an exclusive wedding venue in Wicklow, with surroundings that provide a truly idyllic setting for your perfect day. With two AA Rosettes for Culinary Excellence, they have wedding packages to suit all budgets and tastes including those magical finishing touches that set Druids Glen apart. Whether you are planning an extravagant celebration in the James Joyce
ballroom or a more intimate gathering for a civil ceremony or partnership guests can enjoy their newly refurbished rooms. They pride themselves on the quality of service and hospitality offered. Their dedicated wedding co-ordinator Nessa, will ensure your wedding reception is truly magical. Packages start from €89pp. Enquire about the next day BBQs which can be added to your package. For details, call Nessa or email nessa.kearney@ druidsglenresort.com.
Royal Hotel, Bray Main Street, Bray, 01 2862935, www.royalhotel.ie Share the most important day of your life with The Royal Hotel, the perfect venue to create joyous memories that will last a life time. As Wicklow’s premier wedding venue they pride themselves on working with each couple to ensure that every aspect of their wedding is attended to. Their dedicated wedding co-ordinator who has a wealth of experience in event management and wedding planning will be on
hand to advise and assist you with every detail for your perfect day. They are a licensed venue to host civil partnerships and ceremonies making the hotel the ideal wedding venue for your perfect day. Choose from a selection of menus designed by the Head Chef and enjoy a magnificent meal on the day. Distinguished for their superb food, attention to detail and excellent service, they will ensure that your day is fun, individual and exceeds your expectations.
16 | WEDDINGS
wicklowvoice.ie April 30 2015
my favourite things AndrewHolmesCatering.ie
WHAT’s HOT
with Mairead Vickers info@wicklowvoice.ie Coast Spring/ Summer 2015
Weddingchicks.com
Floralart.ie
One wedding day promise €56 per guest Sparkling Wine Drinks Reception on Arrival 5 Course Meal with a Choice of Main Courses One Glass of Wine Evening Finger Food Red Carpet on Arrival
Tea, Coffee & Homemade Use of our Traditional Cake Cookies on Arrival for Guests Stand & Knife Fresh Flowers on all Tables
Wedding Car
Personalised Menus & Table Plan
Chair Covers & Gold Sash
Photographer DJ & Uplighting Package based on minimum numbers of 100 guests
The Royal Hotel & Merrill Leisure Club, Bray, Co. Wicklow T: (01) 2862935 E: sales@royalhotel.ie www.royalhotel.ie
Getting hitched this year? Whether you’re newly engaged or currently knee deep in Big Day preparations, with a move towards edgier and more individual based fashion styles, it’s never been easier to add that personal and unique touch to your day… Complementary Colours Light, soft and muted tones reign supreme in the colour game right now. Add a striking contrast by mixing a warm and cool colour combination. Weddingchicks.com Statement Styles Take inspiration from the catwalks and give your bridesmaid style a more playful vibe. Separates are a chic and modern alternative to traditional dress designs. Coast Spring/Summer 2015 Top Table Channel a little nostalgic charm with these mini ‘LOVE’ typewriter guest place settings. It’s the
little things that count. Vintage Typewriter Card Holder from €1.82 each, TheKnotShop.com Fancy Vittles As the rise in popularity of mini comfort food continues, this fun and creative trend is sure to go down a treat with wedding guests every time. AndrewHolmesCatering.ie Fresh Pickings Popping up in free spirited arrangements everywhere, the use of ferns and foliage alongside seasonal blooms is a great way to channel that just-picked look. Floralart.ie Mairead Vickers Styling Covering a broad range of fashion styling services; including Wardrobe Planning and Personal Shopping, Mairéad Vickers Styling offers a unique gift experience and a one-stop shop for your complete wardrobe needs. info@maireadvickers.com
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April 30 2015 wicklowvoice.ie
Celebrate in luxurious style Invite some magic into your special day at the AA 5* Druids Glen Resort where a warm welcome and exceptional service awaits you from our dedicated wedding team. We cater for one wedding per day in the chandelier lit James Joyce Ballroom as well as Civil Ceremonies in the Oscar Wilde Suite. ~ Idyllic Wicklow Setting ~ ~ Dedicated & Experienced Wedding Team ~ ~ Chandelier lit Ballroom & Refurbished Guest Rooms ~
All inclusive Wedding Packages from
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Newtownmountkennedy, Co.Wicklow ~ T. 01 287 0811 ~ E. nessa.kearney@druidsglenresort.com ~ www.druidsglenresort.com
pp
18 | LIFESTYLE
recipes
SPECIAL REPORT wicklowvoice.ie April 30 2015 Peter Byrne
ever
Head Chef at Sika Restaurant in The Powerscourt Hotel
Chocolate Tart
INGREDIENTS 600ml Cream 450ml Milk 900g Callebaut 60% Chocolate 5 Whole Eggs
METHOD
Melt the chocolate in a large bowl Bring the milk and cream to the boil Slowly add the liquid to the chocolate, mixing slowly with a spatula.
Once all is mixed together add the whisked eggs, pass and use immediately. Cook in a pre baked pastry tart at 98oc, fan 3 for 40 minutes, or until the mix is set. Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
peak perf
FOR WHEN YOU GET SERIOUS...
wishes Tommy and Ken the very best of luck
Everest Cycles are well and truly back on their feet after a dramatic fire destroyed their premises in June 2014. The blaze didn’t keep owner Tommy Hanratty down for long as he moved into a temporary premises a few weeks later. “There were so many people that helped us out in countless ways when we found ourselves in that situation,” Tommy told the Wicklow Voice. “The management of our current location allowed us to set up shop rent-free for a month and then we realised with a bit of refurbishment we could make the move permanent.” Tommy has been working in the Castle Street shop for over 30 years and bought it 15 years ago. “The local business community were so supportive, like The Royal Hotel gave the affected residents somewhere to stay following the fire,” Tommy continued. “The Scouts offered to help with painting. Our suppliers were extremely understanding as were our customers whose bikes were lost in the fire. “Replacing their bikes was our top priority and we managed to do it pretty quickly. “All of us here at Everest Cycles would like to sincerely thank each and every person for their patience, understanding and kindness over the past year,” concluded Tommy. Now, almost a year since the fire, Everest Cycles are celebrating their continued success by holding their biggest sale yet - the Great Spring Clearance. Everest Cycles have everything you need to help get on your bike this Spring. They stock both new and used bikes catering for men, women and children. If you should encounter any trouble as you pedal along there is no need to worry as Everest Cycles can give your bike a service and have it as good as new. To keep you and your bike safe, they stock bike locks and a wide variety of helmets. Be safe, be seen is the motto for all cyclists and to ensure that you are visible to other road users no matter what the conditions you can pick up a high-vis jacket. As the evenings get longer and the sun starts to shine a little brighter, you may have the urge to venture outside and enjoy the beauty of Wicklow by bike. If you don’t currently own your own bike, you can avail of Everest Cycles bike rental service which runs from April 1 until September 30.
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April 30 2015 wicklowvoice.ie
rest cycles
ormance at the right price Tommy Hanratty and Ken Hind of Everest Cycles
20 | SPECIAL REPORT wicklowvoice.ie April 30 2015 Looking for a new car? Talk to Bray credit union
The benefits of our car loan is that its 5.9% APR fixed – which right now in the market is a very competitive rate. AIB has a higher variable rate as does Bank of Ireland. As a new or existing member of Bray Credit Union, this loan rate offers the following: • New Competitive 5.9% APR* Fixed Interest Rate • No hidden fees, balloon payments or transaction charges • 0% may sound very attractive – but don’t forget to read the small print! • Loans are insured at no direct cost to the eligible member • Repayments calculated on the reducing balance of the loan = Smaller interest repayments as you repay your loan Flexibility with repayment terms to suit your particular circumstances. You can repay the loan earlier with a lump sum with no penalty charges Terms and conditions apply.
Top tips for buying a car Buying a car, either new or second-hand, can be a daunting experience, it cannot be denied. After all, you will want to strike the best possible deal at the best possible price, and the used car seller will want to do the opposite. Here are a few tips • Avoid all contact with sellers or buyers if the offer seems to good to be true. • Never buy a car without seeing it first or having it checked over by a professional. • Never give out your account
details if unsure, if you do and have reservation, contact your bank immediately. • Ask to see the log book and if a name is on it ask for ID to verify the seller. • Where is the VIN number? (Should match the log book). Prior to going and actually sourcing a car, you are going to have to figure out a few things first. What is your budget? How much will it cost you to run this car, in terms of tax, insurance and fuel consumption? Will this car depreciate, or even appreciate? Cars cost money to
April 30 2015 wicklowvoice.ie
run and maintain, and for this reason you will have to work out all of the above in order to see what car will fit your budget. Once you’ve figured this out, you’ll now need to decide where to buy. When buying a new car, franchised dealerships are the best place to buy from. Dealers selling used cars will usually provide paperwork detailing the car’s history, something you won’t see too often in private sales. Some may even provide a warranty with the car that will cover the cost of any major mechanical faults that might occur within the first year of ownership. Such deals cannot be negotiated when buying privately, however, so you won’t get the same “peace of mind”. Types of dealer can vary from official dealers to small independent dealers..
SPECIAL REPORT| 21
22 | Advertising
wicklowvoice.ie April 30 2015
Buying? Selling? Contact one of our team today e: info@ wicklowvoice.ie w: www. wicklowvoice.ie t: 01 901 5565
sport| 23
April 30 2015 wicklowvoice.ie
insideback
with Brian Quigley
Don’t forget Darkness Into Light
There is less than two weeks left to register for the annual Darkness Into Light 5K. The dawn runs will take place as the sun comes up on Saturday, May 9. Wicklow will host runs in Arklow and Bray and they are in aid of Pieta House, the suicide and self-harm crisis centre. Almost 1,000 people have already registered to run and there is still time for you to join in and register. You can pre-register for the Bray run at Bray Town Council on weekdays between 9am and 5.30pm. Meanwhile registration for the Arklow event is available online at www.dil.pieta.ie. The Bray walk will begin at Putland Road and finish at the bandstand while Arklow’s route will begin and end at the Seafarer’s Memorial Garden. The walk raises vital funds and creates awareness and solidarity. Walkers/runners taking part
sport in brief An Tochar
The County Development Draw tickets are now for sale for €50. We ask everyone to buy and sell them as they keep us going financially for the year. Des Fanning, Liz Byrne, Kerry Fee, Frances Gaskin, Brendan Brady, Jackie Wolohan Phil Power and Nick Nolan are distributing them. Our quiz team had a fruitless, yet enjoyable, visit to Citywest Hotel on April 25 for the All Ireland Scór Final. Captain John Byrne is already talking about preparations for next year. We hosted the first Go Games of the year for U8 and U10 boys. There were 16 teams playing in total. Two teams at each age level from Kilcoole, Avondale, St. Patricks and An Tochar. The U8s played very well on the night. At the under 10 grade our boys performed extremely well and were more than capable of competing with all teams.
Arklow Geraldines The next meeting of the Executive Committee will take place on May 13 at 8pm in the County GAA Board Rooms.
Cyclists get ready to head off on the Skoda Tour of Wicklow from Bray Emmets last Saturday
are encouraged to connect with those around them by telling their story or simply saying hello. London Marathon The Sunday of the London marathon is one of the most special days in the spring Arklow Community Games Athletics competition is scheduled for May 4 at 3pm at the sports center in Arklow for girls and boys over six and under eight,10, 12, 14 and 16 years. Entry fee is €5. Register your entry with James O’Reilly at 0402 91085 or email pro@arklowcg.org. County Draw Tickets are now available. There are three monthly draws with a total prize fund of €66,750. Please contact any Committee member to get yours or email arklowgaa@gmail.com. The next Go Games Blitz for the U10 and U8 boys will take place on Saturday, May 2 at Shillelagh grounds. Wicklow Minor Ladies won their place in a Leinster Final by defeating Laois. The girls now face Meath on May 4. Venue to be decided.
Bray Emmets The lotto numbers drawn were 9, 29, 5, 13. The next jackpot will be €12,800. There was one €25 Lucky Dip winner, congratulations to Maire Ni Mhidhigh. Bray Emmets were delighted to be the start and finish line of the tour of Wicklow cycle series. The charity cycle in aid of Purple House Cancer Support had a great turnout with cyclists traveling from far
sporting calendar. I’ve never run it but I always watch it on BBC. Last Sunday was no different to London marathon day in any other year for me, I was installed in my chair with a free morning stretching out before me like the 26.2 miles that were stretched and wide. Congratulations to all who took part and to the organisers for such a well organised event. Peil Abu takes place every Thursday at 7pm. Cost €5. Open to all over 18. All you need is runners and plenty of water. Contact Gary on 086 8545 100 if you are interested or turn up on the night.
Cumann na mBunscol
We - along with the Camogie Association - are delighted to announce a ‘Caman Try It Day’ for all Wicklow Primary schools on May 6 at Ballinakill Centre of Excellence, Rathdrum. This day will involve camogie coaching for girls from your school and a mini games blitz all in a fun, safe environment. Contact Emer Fahy on 086 1089516 or emerfahy@ hotmail.com. Please register by May 1 at 5pm. The annual Allianz Cumann na mBunscol and Wicklow GAA Games Development Skills County Finals were held on April 22. The winners were: Boys Football - Mikey O’Rourke (Dunlavin), Jack Kirwan (Baltinglass); Girls Football Maude Robinson (Tinahely); Hurling - Jack Manley (Glenealy); Camogie - Sophie Bermingham and Amber House (Rathcoyle).
out in front of the runners. This year Kenya’s Eliud Kipchoge, the 2003 World 5000 meters champion, won the men’s race, outsprinting defending champion and compatriot Wilson Kipsang with 500 meters to go. The sight of the two of them
still sizing each other up with a mile to go in the shadow of Big Ben was a striking image. Another Kenyan, Denis Kimetto (the World Record holder), brought home the bronze for a Kenyan 1-2-3. The London marathon isn’t just about these elite athletes.
It’s about each and every one of the 50,000 competitors from all over the world who come to compete in the most famous marathon of them all. There are so many human stories interwoven with the day’s events. Like the Martin siblings Rosie (24), Ella (22) and Will (20) who were running the marathon as a promise to their terminallyill mother who was a huge running fan. And then there was Paula Radcliffe, running her last competitive race at 41 years of age, the familiar bobbing head, bringing down the curtain on a glittering career. We will never see her like again. It is estimated that the number of people she has inspired to take up running over the years is in the millions, incredible when you think of it. She ran a great time in her swansong, 2 hours and 37 minutes in a ladies race that was won by Ethiopia’s Tigist Tufa.
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wicklowvoice.ie April 30 2015