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Toys’r’dust
Smyths pull out but Dealz on way in retail shakeup By Michelle McGlynn
Retailer Smyths Toys are pulling out of County Wicklow. The store on Bray’s Florence Road will close its doors on August 16 after selling their premises to discount retailer Dealz in a multi-million euro transaction. Staff members and local residents were left shocked by the announcement last week with concerns being raised that the decision would see consumers travelling outside the county during the busy Christmas period. When contacted by the Wicklow Voice, Smyths Toys said, “We would like to thank all of our customers over the years for their custom in the Bray store and we hope to continue serving them through our Carrickmines store and our online store, which holds our
extensive range. The store staff from Bray have been offered alternative jobs in Dealz and were also offered alternative employment elsewhere with Smyths Toys.” However, the announcement does not reflect the current trend in Bray and Wicklow County as a whole, with a number of high profile retailers arriving, such as Boots, Reads, Starbucks, Eurogiant and Matt Britton Carpets, with more on their way including Wigoders and Cistella Design in addition to Dealz. Healthcare retailer Holland & Barrett are believed to have purchased the City 2 site and it is believed that they were one of eight businesses bidding on the site who are seeking to make the move to Bray, while rumours are circulating that both Penneys and Heatons are eyeing the town. Turn to page 8
Sharmaine O’Brien from Enniskerry and Maura McCann from Bray are all smiles after receiving their Leaving Certificate results on Wednesday in St Thomas’s Community College - see page 4 » Lots more pictures from around the county inside
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04| NEWS news in brief Dementia Support
wicklowvoice.ie August 13 2015
Happy ending for Emer
AlzPalz, a volunteer befriending service, are looking for volunteers who are interested in supporting people with dementia who are living at home. If you have a couple of hours to spare and live in the North Wicklow area call 089 4286928 before August 28.
Maulin mountain Sugarloaf Lions Club recently climbed Maulin mountain in aid of Greystones Cancer Support and raised €700. The money will help support centre to continue their important work in the community. “Big thanks and much appreciation to Sugarloaf Lions,” said Sonia Walsh of Greystones Cancer Support.
The Back Doors The Meakin brothers bring their The Doors ‘clone’ band to the Hot Spot Music Club, Greystones on August 17 at 9pm.Their totally authentic sound will transport you back to the Whisky A-Go-Go, LA in 1967. Admission is €10.
Breda Donnelly, Thomas Woodcock, Emer Donnelly and Lisa O’Brien By Michelle McGlynn There was a happy ending for Lakers member, Emer Donnelly, when a local businessman stepped in to save the day. Shane O’Farrell of The Ardmore Bar in Bray generously donated a brand new iPad when Emer’s went missing. Speaking to the Wicklow Voice, Anne King of Bray Lakers said, “We cannot thank Shane O’Farrell and Thomas Woodcock enough
for this amazing gesture, it was such a kind thing to do for Emer. “We are extremely grateful to them both and we are delighted that we can highlight this good news story.” When the Wicklow Voice spoke to Shane about his act of kindness he said, “I heard about the situation and I knew the tablet is essential in Emer’s daily life. I didn’t even think about it, it was just the right thing to do”. Emer discovered that her
iPad had been lost, much to the distress of Emer and her family. The device is extremely important to Emer as it helps her in her daily activities. Lakers Sports Instructor Lisa O’Brien spread the word on Facebook page in the hopes of seeing Emer’s iPad returned. Unfortunately, the tablet was discovered and was beyond repair. Within hours, Thomas contacted Lisa and offered to replace the tablet on behalf of The Ardmore.
news in brief East Coast Samaritans East Coast Samaritans, based off Main Street, Arklow, will be holding a number of information evenings for interested volunteers. These will take place in Paramount Arcade, Arklow, August 18 and September 1; St Patrick’s Parish Hall, Wicklow Town, August 20 and Carnew Training and Development Centre, September 3.
Tidy Towns Newtown Tidy Towns would like to remind residents to be vigilant in keeping the town tidy as judging may take place any day. The group continues to meet on Mondays on the Main Street from 7pm-9pm, new members are welcome.
Heritage week Bray Cualann Historical Society will have a number of talks and tours during Heritage Week. The events will take place from August 22 to 29. See www. countywicklowheritage.org
Joy and a few tears as 1500 get their results By Cathy Lee
More than 1500 students in Wicklow received Leaving Certificate results on Wednesday at secondary schools across the county. Students, parents, friends and family of the thousands of students countywide shared in some mixed emotions as students discovered the results of their work and said goodbye to their time at secondary school. One of those who received her results was 18-year-old Megan Swart who is representing Wicklow at the Rose of Tralee 2015. The youngest ever Rose, from Colaiste Bride in Carnew, will be taking part in this year’s international competition from August 14-18 in County Kerry. Meanwhile at St. Thomas’s Community College in Bray, the last ever Leaving Cert class received their results. Staff members turned out to join the final 34 students in their celebrations. The secondary school closed down in June after more than 30 years due to dwindling numbers. Other notable scenes on Wednesday included a Presentation College student in Bray achieving seven A1 grades. Speaking to the Wicklow Voice, Emma Lee (19) from Newtownmountkennedy who attended Loreto Convent Bray said, “I’m feeling relieved and I’m just waiting for Monday’s offers. “I’m 10 points off, but I’m proud and glad that I did it.” This year we saw that ordinary level maths results went up 7% on last year while the number opting for higher level maths remained the same at 27%, with the failure rates continuing to rise. There was an increase in students sitting the Leaving
Wicklow Rose Megan Swart Cert science subjects of biology, physics and chemistry. While the languages stood at 10% taking Spanish, French falling to 49% and German remaining at 13%. Eight students nationwide received nine A1s National and local colleges were live tweeting on Wednesday to give students some tips on the application process as the anxious wait for Monday morning approaches. Encouraging messages also went out nationwide in support of those who may be disappointed assuring that there are always more options if plan A seems out of reach. A high percentage of the students will be thinking ahead to Monday’s CAO offers to see if they’ve made the cut on the first round. The second round of offers will occur on August 27. While helplines opened and education officers spoke out about coping methods for students, President Máire G. Ní Chiarba of the Association of Secondary Teachers, Ireland (ASTI) said online, “Regardless of individual grades, all students have reached a significant milestone in their lives. “Your teachers are proud of you”. See page 10, “Is the Leaving Cert still relevant?”
NEWS |05
August 13 2015 wicklowvoice.ie
wicklow people in pictures
Denise Brennan certainly had her spirits lifted by the crew from the Navy Ship L.E CIARA after she was invited to have a live performance of her album Sailing with the Wind onboard the ship during the Maritime Festival in Arklow. (pic Yvette O Beirne)
Ciara O Connell from Arklow was one of the many students to receive their Leaving Cert results (Pic Yvette O Beirne)
Veronica McKevitt, car draw winner with her children Jake and Daisy and Ronnie Temple, Director of Bray Credit Union Ltd
Harry (2)and Barry Mernagh out and about in Wicklow Town
Joss, Steph, Matthew (7) and Harry (6) are all smiles in Greystones
At the Children’s Fancy Dress at the Wicklow GAA as part of the 137th Wicklow Regatta Festival were Caralann Murphy and Regatta Queen Erica Copland. Photo by Ceaneacht O Hoctun
Gill Mac and her ‘Africa’ piece at the Signal Arts Centre, Bray
Brian Codyre and Chloe (2) out and about in Bray
06| NEWS news in brief 1001 walks The stunning Wicklow Way has been included among the most beautiful walks in the world. The trail through the Wicklow Mountains is featured in the upcoming book, 1001 Walks You Must Experience Before You Die. The book has been curated by an international team of travel writers and walking enthusiasts and edited by Barry Stone.
Viking picnic The Big Viking Picnic in aid of Aoibheann’s Pink Tie children’s cancer charity will take place on August 29 from 10am at Grove Gardens, Co Meath. Attempting to break the Guinness World Record for the largest gathering of vikings, some of the cast of tv series Vikings which is filmed in Ashford Studios will be in attendance. There will be a funfair and live music onthe day. Tickets €20 via eventbrite.ie.
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wicklowvoice.ie August 13 2015
INVASION!
County hit by swarms of flying ants
By Michelle McGlynn
Without a doubt, you will have noticed huge swarms of flying ants invading the county in recent days. Readers in Bray, Greystones, Arklow and Wicklow Town have found themselves inundated with the winged insects recently. Many are bewildered by their sudden appearance but it is actually an annual occurrence. At this time of year, conditions are perfect for the ants mating season. When the weather gets warm and humid and there is no rain, ants all around the country emerge from their colonies usually around 5pm for their ‘nuptial flight’. Although, most people around the Garden County may think they witnessed the height of this over the past weekend, experts have predicted that the worst is
Count the ants, win a sealife pass! The Wicklow Voice has been invaded with ants! Can you help us catch them all? See how many you can find in the pages of this paper and let us know by emailing your answer to comps@wicklowvoice. ie. With thanks to SeaLife Bray, one lucky winner will win a family pass to SeaLife on Bray Seafront. Closing date for entries is Tuesday, August 18. Start counting those creepy crawlies! yet to come. There is a day each year known as Flying Ant Day which has been predicted to occur around mid-September. Wicklow Voice’s resident nature expert, Justin Ivory, says, “Usually all the colonies in an area, triggered by some unseen cue - temperature, humidity, day length - will empty out at the same time.
“This synchronisation ensures better genetic mixing across the colonies.” (See page 12) An ant mates just once in its lifetime as the female gathers enough sperm to last the rest of its life - which can be 21-24 years. While they can be pests, ants are natural foragers and are essential to our ecosystem so if
possible, it is important that they are free to reproduce. However, if you are overrun and at your wits end, you can spray them with a homemade remedy of diluted washing-up liquid. To keep them out of your house, be sure to keep food covered and keep anything sweet stored away.
If you are in one of the affected areas, keep in mind that flying ants have a sting in their tail as they are known to spray formic acid which produces a stinging effect in human skin. Take care not to disturb them and they will not sting, so stand back and enjoy the wonders of nature.
Pack up the family car and make a day of it at Airfield Estate this summer…
airfield ESTATE With the sun shining and kids on their summer holidays, why not make a day of it at Airfield Estate which is bursting with fun activities everyday including: • Egg collecting at 10am, followed by milking of the Jersey cows in the farmyard at 10.30am • Guided tours of the house and gardens at 11.30am and 2.30pm • Join the farmers to feed Airfield’s animals at 3.15pm
Everybody say aww ...
Sally the Pug, Simba the Spaniel and Rosie the Rabbit
Search on for county’s cutest pet By Michelle McGlynn
New for 2015 is Naturescape – an interactive play area for 4-12 year old visitors with a 27m zip wire, tractor tyres, balance beams and woodland hideouts. For our little visitors from 0-4 years there is the new Grey Barn which is a specially designed indoors/outdoors play area with play market stalls, cooking stations and thatched cottage. Set over 38 acres and just off the M50 in Dundrum, Airfield Estate is the perfect day out. Pack up the car and enjoy a rural experience in the city.
Airfield Estate | Overend Way, Dundrum Dublin 14 | Open daily from 9.30am t: 01 9696666 | e: info@airfield.ie | w: www.airfield.ie Follow us online @ facebook.com/airfielddublin | twitter.com/airfielddundrum
The search is on for Wicklow’s Cutest Pet. The past few weeks has seen East Coast FM searching far and wide for the county’s cutest pet. There have been pint size pups as well as big dogs and cats of all colours as well as less common pets such as turtles, rabbits, pigs, sheep and even a hedgehog or two from around the county. Almost 1,000 pets have been
entered to win the coveted title. The finalists are currently being selected, based on ‘likes’ and the thoughts of East Coast FM’s judging panel. Finals voting will start this week, with the winner crowned next week. Speaking to the Wicklow Voice, East Coast FM Program Director Mark Robinson said that the response has been outstanding, but not surprising. “Let’s face it, everyone thinks their pet is cute, or the cutest, so in one respect every pet
is a winner but only one can wear the crown of Wicklow’s Cutest.” Professional pet photographer Brian McNultyie is supplying a magnificent 16 x 20 print of the winner valued at €600. If you would like your pet photographed professionally contact Brian on phototoursireland.com PH 086-1911659. Go to the East Coast FM Facebook page to vote in the East Coast FM Wicklow Cutest Pet competition.
August 13 2015 wicklowvoice.ie
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08| NEWS
wicklowvoice.ie August 13 2015
Murder most foul at Wicklow Gaol
By Michelle McGlynn
Wicklow’s Historic Gaol is at the centre of new RTE Radio 1 documentary, The Murderer, Me and my Family Tree. Convicted murderer James Haskins was the last man hanged at Wicklow Gaol on March 18, 1843 and 28 year old Dylan Haskins has spent the past year tracking down his descendents. The radio documentary was launched in the Jailer’s Cavern in Wicklow’s Historic Gaol on August 6 where Dylan was joined by more than 100 people
including his family, participants in the documentary and history lovers from across the county. Although Dylan has been working on this project for a year, his journey actually began back in 1998. While travelling in the car with his father, a radio ad for Wicklow’s Historic Gaol namechecked James Haskins. As Haskins is a relatively unusual surname in Ireland and given that Dylan’s father, grandfather and great-grandfather were all named James, the ad piqued their interest. Dylan’s father spent several
years trawling through church archives and driving to the homes of people who remembered bits of the story. After meeting several dead ends, the father/son duo shelved the project. Dylan’s father passed away in 2006 and following this loss, Dylan decided to see his dad’s research through. The quest to find out if he was related to the Wicklow murderer brought him from the cells of Wicklow Gaol, back and forth all across the county. Meeting 89-year-old Tinahely farmer Willie Stedman provided
one of many breakthroughs as he recalled stories he had heard in his youth. The real key to the mystery was discovered with a milkman from Wicklow in the House of Lords in London. Dylan travelled to the UK to meet with Lord Christopher Haskins to get a DNA analysis done. It was this test that finally proved what Dylan’s father had suspected, that they were in fact related to the last man hanged in Wicklow Gaol. You can listen to The Murderer, Me and my Family Tree at www.rte.ie/radio1
Chairman of Wicklow Tourism Noel Keyes, Lorraine Gallagher and Joan Kavanagh at the launch of the RTE radio documentary in Wicklow Gaol (Pic Michael Kelly)
news in brief Greystones exhibition
We’re preventing the pollution of our waterways in Wicklow. A new wastewater treatment plant in Milltown is nearly complete. This will prevent the discharge of pollution in the Dunlavin area. We’re committed to making sure everyone can enjoy Ireland’s rivers and lakes safely.
For more information visit www.water.ie Safeguarding your water for your future.
The new venue for the Greystones Art and Photography Exhibition is now open. The exhibition is open every summer Sunday from noon until 5.30pm at the walkway along the South Beach, in front of La Touche Road car park.
Birdwatch Wicklow There will be an evening tern roost watch at Sandymount Strand on August 26. The meeting point is at the Martello tower car park, north of Merrion Gates at 7pm and you are advised to bring wellies. For more information see Facebook.
Softball team Wicklow Wolves, a coed softball team based in Wicklow, are looking to recruit new players. If you are over 18 years of age and are interested, email wicklowwolves@gmail.com.
Fashion photographers Calling all budding fashion photographers in Wicklow, could you be Young Fashion Photographer of the Year. If you think you have what it takes, send five examples of your work along with your details via www.dff.ie before 5pm on August 20.
Smyths out, Dealz arrive in retail shakeup Continued from front page
It is also believed that a number of major brands have expressed interest in occupying the proposed Florentine Centre which was purchased by the council in December 2013. An update on the proposed shopping centre is expected to be presented to local councillors in September. Aldi was last week refused planning permission for a second store in Bray on the site of the former Heitons Buckley on Castle Street. Sources have told the Wicklow Voice that the decision to move Smyths Toys out of Bray came following research which showed that gift cards purchased in Bray were being redeemed in the nearby Carrickmines store. The store had also expressed some frustration with difficulties they experienced with getting delivery trucks to their Bray store and when Dealz made an offer, Smyths decided to close. When contacted by the Wicklow Voice, President of Bray Chamber of Commerce, Rory Benville said, “Bray is one of the largest towns in Ireland and will always be attractive for business. “Locals must support existing and new shops by simply shopping locally!”
NEWS |09
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10 | OPINION
opinion&comment
Is the Leaving Certificate still relevant?
T
he day that has, is or will loom over us in Ireland is the day of the Leaving certificate results. The nervous race to that school that you either loved, hated or slightly tolerated to receive a large envelope that would reveal the letters and numbers that represent your time at school, academically speaking anyway. It’s a time that still haunts the nightmares of some but is no doubt something memorable. For me, that’s all that it is: a memory. This time last year was when my battle with the Leaving Cert ended and I had the sudden realisation that maybe it doesn’t live up to all the hype. For example, since moving to a different city and starting college, the intrusive question of “what did you get in the Leaving Cert?” has rarely been heard. That’s the thing, once you’re free from the walls of the secondary school classroom, not many in the outside world care much about the C3 in Geography or B2 in Home Economics. It’s just not relevant. Now I’m not saying that your Leaving Certificate doesn’t deserve some pride, it does - you obviously put time and energy into it. But believe me the Leaving Cert does not define you or your future capabilities, even if you’ve been brain-washed to think that it does. Take my case for example. To get into journalism in NUI Galway, the CAO 2014 requirement was 430 points. In my Leaving Cert I was five points short of this mark. Thankfully I got in on a fellowship scheme where 40 points were added to my score after a process of interview and application. But the point being, did those five points mean that I wasn’t the right person for the course? Do points define you in such a way as to undervalue you? In terms of the Leaving Cert being relevant to us, I really don’t think that it is. For the majority of school attenders, the subjects they’re studying are not the routes of their future plans. If we look at the increase of students choosing IT courses, a basic coverage of such subjects often doesn’t take place in secondary school. The Leaving Cert seems to be an unchanging beast that demands the rote learning of outdated subjects that don’t undergo much change. But students must adapt to learning subject courses for two years that they may never look at that again after that, all for the cause of gaining points. Is this what education is? I know in college, tutors are looking for independent expression, innovative ideas and creativity but because of the training involved in the Leaving Certificate system, some students lack these skills from the get-go. The Leaving Cert demands huge choic-
es, big decisions and the increased pressure of competition. The CAO points system seems to be the craze of the Leaving Certificate, the focus of the classroom and what matters to most of the students. This is another system that appears to never change. Every year the pressure is packed on students to meet the demands of entry to college courses. But this too also has an element of unpredictability as trends go changing easily and the points you aim for are no longer the correct requirement. Now if that isn’t something that could mess you around, I don’t know what is. I think the word that sums up the Leaving Cert experience is “unpredictable” which is ironic given the amount of money grinds classes can suckle from people claiming they can predict what’ll be on the papers. You really don’t know what lies ahead of you and not knowing where you’re going is daunting and adds to this pressurised time. It’s so important to have a lifeline of support around you during this challenging time that seems to be a sort of rite of passage. Finishing school, sitting the Leaving Cert, attending the debs and then starting a new adventure entirely. Within a short length of time there’s so much new learning and coping skills needed to deal with it all and it’s certainly made easier by a decent set of friends or family around you. To all those receiving Leaving Certificate results today I wish you the best and leave you with this: “Don’t take life too seriously, nobody gets out alive anyway”. So whether you’re feeling positive today or even if you aren’t, remember that you present yourself to the world, not those figures on that page. Cathy Lee is a Leaving Cert survivor (2014), student journalist of NUI Galway (2015) and Wicklow native
I wish you the best and leave you with this: “Don’t take life too seriously, nobody gets out alive anyway”
with Cathy Lee with Michael Wolsey
“W
I was a child when it launched in 1959. The highlight was Tea Time With Tommy where he played requests on the piano. It would have been cheaper if he read the telephone directory. And just as entertaining Tweets of the week
Amy Huberman @amyhuberman “Oh good. Just emailed someone I’ve never met arranging travel details and told them I wasn’t sure I could face a 4.30am ride. Rise” Niall Breslin @nbrez “One of creations greatest gifts is when cats lose the plot and tear around the house aimlessly with no intentions other than to look nuts.” Lisa Hannigan @LisaHannigan “Friday pints in Dublin spent thinking up names for imaginary cats #CatticusFinch #FidelCatro #MeowGibson” WWN @ WhispersNewsLTD “#LeavingCert was invented by DeValera to punish his children after they were particularly annoying”
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
Why we’re not watching UTV hat is the point of UTV Ireland? What, apart from another channel, has it added to the scope or scale of Irish television? The first question is a matter for debate. The answer to the second is that, like its Ulster Television parent, it has contributed little or nothing of substance. I was a child in Belfast when Ulster Television was launched in 1959. The highlight of its home-produced content was a programme called Tea Time With Tommy in which a man called Tommy James played requests on the piano. Sometimes the viewers got to appear on the show and do a bit of performing on their own account but the main attraction was in having your name broadcast on television. It would have been cheaper if Tommy had read out the telephone directory. And just as entertaining. Those were simpler times, of course. But not so simple that playing requests on a piano would ever have been regarded as cutting-edge television. Ulster Television was part of the Britain’s independent television network, a confederation of stations for the regions of the United Kingdom. They have now mostly been subsumed into a company called ITV plc. But originally, and for many years, they were separate entities with such names as Granada, which served the north west of England, Tyne Tees Television (for the north east) Anglia (for the east) and Associated-Rediffusion which served London. They each supplied some local content - news, current affairs, a bit of light entertainment - and competed at providing programmes that would be broadcast across the entire network. And excellent programmes some of them were. Granada is probably best known as the home of Coronation Street but the station has also give us such fine dramas as Brideshead Revisited, The Jewel in the Crown and Cold Feet and some of the very best TV crime fiction, including Prime Suspect and Cracker. Yorkshire Television gave us A Touch of Frost. Associated had a huge hit with The Avengers. Thames gave us The Bill, repeats of which are still running on a number of channels. ATV produced The Muppets, a series that crossed the boundary between adult and children’s’s broadcasting more successfully than any before or since. The company names have mostly gone - Ulster is one of the few survivors - but the tradition of regional programmemaking lives on. Check out any successful ITV programme and you will invariably find that, if it hasn’t been bought in from America, it has been made by one of the network companies or its succes-
sor. You won’t find much mention of Ulster Television on that list. Indeed, except for a quiz show called Password and a few co-productions with other ITV companies and RTE, you won’t find it mentioned at all. While other companies were making the likes of Queer as Folk and Dr Zhivago for the network, UTV was delighting us with a man playing requests on the piano and a number of programmes of the Down Your Way type where a a TV crew would patronise the residents of some small town or village. UTV became a success in Northern Ireland not because of the programmes it made but because of the programmes it aired, which somebody else had made. If you wanted to watch ITV, Ulster Television was the only way to go. When the company’s signal became accessible south of the border, the same rule applied. If you wanted to watch ITV then, by and large, Ulster Television was the route you had to take. When the company launched UTV Ireland, I assumed it would be providing something different - a stand-alone television station which would at least attempt to rival RTE and TV3. Instead it has stuck with the Ulster formula of British network programmes interspersed with some local news and current affairs. The schedules of UTV and UTV Ireland hardly differ and the few variations seem to have been chosen randomly, not selected for an Irish audience. For instance, on Tuesday July 28, when UTV was showing a travel programme called A Great Welsh Adventure, UTV Ireland was showing a travel programme called Britain’s Best Canal Journeys. Later that night when UTV was showing a repeat of Murder She Wrote, UTV Ireland was showing a repeat of the Jeremy Kyle Show USA.. Since it started in January, forecast losses at UTV Ireland for 2015 have almost quadrupled to more than €16m and audience growth has stalled. Viewers who like the UTV offering are continuing to watch it direct from Belfast, as they always did. In a recent interview UTV Television’s managing director Michael Wilson mused on its problem.“I think the audience has been confused,” he told the Journal.ie. “We said we were going to offer a new station and I think some of the audience feel that they haven’t got a new station, they have got something that has been rehashed.” At least he sees the problem. Will he now provide a solution?
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
August 13 2015 wicklowvoice.ie
anyotherbusiness
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Local snapper shortlisted By Michelle McGlynn
Greystones photographer Anna O’Rourke has been short listed in a national photography competition. Entrants were asked to capture the essence of their home town and Anna focussed on the scenic views and nature of Greystones. The Canon Ireland and TheJournal.ie photography competition received hundreds of entries from which they chose just three finalists. A founding member of Greystones Camera Club, photography runs in Anna’s family as she says her father was “big into photography”. “It is absolutely my dream job,” Anna added. “I would love to be able to sell my photography, in a big way”. Pictured is a puffin photographed by Anna on a recent Greystones Camera Club trip to the Great Saltee Island.
The point of a country is to be able to be ‘us’ We recieved the following email from Alex Kelly of Newtownmountkennedy in response to an article we published last month To whom it may concern, I read the article “Do we need another new party?”, in your normally fine paper, dated the July 30, 2015, and wish to make some comments on it, and they are the following: Though I am not an expert on these issues, with all due respect, further integration into Europe, doesn’t really seem like a logical progression, and in realistic terms, is not going to happen, and would be a failed project if it did get off the ground. The point of having a country, is to be able to be “us”, and to make our own decisions, on everything we do, be it the economy, what is a criminal offence and what isn’t, to what we eat for breakfast. We should make these decisions, not somebody else - yes, in consultation with other countries if needs be, but our decisions must be final when it comes to our country. We understand how this country works, and we decide how it should work. Basically, that’s what it boils down to, and this issue will always be raised, this
is partly why we have conflict in Ukraine and immigration issues being raised in the UK. The idea that a larger organisation (be it the EU, the UK, US, or Russia) should have a say over our national parliament, is not exactly democratic, and is perhaps not dissimilar to being part of an empire. Granted, there are EU elections, but our voices may become more drowned out the more power is given to larger institutions. Larger players on the EU scene may have even more of a say, which may be worse than the usual FF/FG/LAB crowd, taking over the show. Also, who here knows the names of all our MEPs? What about the names of any foreign MEPs? What about the political groupings? Do we know the major issues affecting Austria or Bulgaria at the moment, or the names of their main parties? Have we even been to any EU member countries, outside of a package resort, or tried to speak to locals of those countries, in their languages? The whole idea that somehow somebody elsewhere knows what’s best for us (or that we know what’s best for others), seems quite flawed. The EU isn’t going to manage things necessarily any better. We currently have Luxembourg
under investigation (yes, by the EU) regarding possibly illegal, favourable corporation tax deals with large American tech companies - funnily enough the Prime Minister of Luxembourg who was in power at the time of these deals, was none other than Jean-Claude Junker, current EU Commission president. Can we then say that this investigation will be impartial? We couldn’t allow Greece to wipe its debts, yet Germany negotiated a debt write down in the 50s, and I believe France has previously had debt written off due to pressure exerted by Germany. Is this fair? Party in-fighting may be desirable, as we need more dissenting opinions - the flaw in our system is we don’t have enough dissenting, different opinions. If we have a shower of eejits running the country, maybe it’s because we don’t venture to vote for those who are a bit different, those with good principles. I worry the EU won’t be as welcoming to dissenting opinions, and may perhaps have a majority of similar eejits, and a minority of those with real passion and principles. Hence why I cautiously welcome the announcement of the Social Democrats - we need more differing parties and views, not less. Less politicians domestically,
doesn’t seem very logical to me, who is on the ground here? Who is our representative? Why would we want our representatives to be more absent than they often already are? It’s bad enough when the Dail is half empty at Leaders’ Questions, and when the Taoiseach flies off to America for Patrick’s Day, because for some reason he can’t go and represent us in any other country on Paddy’s Day. However, do I think we need to quit the EU? Not necessarily, though we must not treat it as sacred, just as we must not treat the views and policies of our own or any other country as sacred. The idea that we must at all costs stay in the EU, is ridiculous, we must have the choice to leave, and just as we vote for eejits because we wrongly fear the alternative, we must not fear leaving the EU, if it goes in a direction which is contrary to the ideas of independence, tolerance, democracy and accountability.
Alex is a TEFL teacher in his mid-20s, who takes an interest in politics, local, national and international, and has been living in Newtownmountkennedy for over a decade.
focus on faces Saran Kennedy-Williams Local fashion designer How’s life? Very busy, but a lot of fun! I recently completed my degree at the London College of Fashion (LCF). I have been doing some travelling including a trip to Bangladesh. Since returning to Wicklow, I have also started working full time with my business partner Charlotte Instone to secure funding for our ethical fashion enterprise. How did you first become interested in ethical fashion? I always knew I wanted to work in fashion. But once I had learned the human rights violations and environmental destruction our current fashion system is causing, I could not ignore the problem. So myself and Charlotte set up the Ethical Fashion Collective and started running campaigns and events. What are you hoping to achieve with the Collective? We started the Ethical Fashion Collective to raise awareness for issues in the fashion industry and to run fundraising events for a fair-trade textile project based in Tanzania. So far, we have raised enough money for the people living in the Tanzanian village to build a workshop and water well. This workshop has been used to provide jobs for 60 women and is continuing to grow with the profits of their business. We have created a Facebook page for people to learn about the darker side of the industry, and point them towards some great ethical fashion brands. Have you gotten much support since it was established in 2013? Yes absolutely, LCF have been fantastically supportive, they helped us out with publicity for our events and gave us a little bit of funding too. Since starting the Collective, almost everyone I talk to about our work wants to get involved, so many people offered their time and advice. Most importantly, my friends and family have always been very supportive and encouraging. I’m really lucky to have parents who think I can do anything I set my mind to! I’m really glad to have Charlotte. We both have very different strengths which works in our favour. You recently travelled to Bangladesh where you attended a conference at the invitation of Nobel Prize winner, Mohamed Yunus. Tell us about it. It was a really fantastic conference, so many inspirational speakers all with one goal: to get rid of poverty by fostering entrepreneurship and creating sustainable companies that invest in their employees. The conference was only one day, so with the rest our time in Bangladesh we met with trade unions, NGOs and toured several factories. It was so surreal and quite shocking to actually see the factories we have spent so long campaigning about, but it was the only way for us to get a first-hand perspective on the workers rights violations that happen every day. We got to meet some survivors of the Tazreen factory fire and the Rana Plaza collapse, it was utterly harrowing to hear their stories. Some people had not received any compensation for their injuries, some had lost many family members to these tragedies. These factory disasters were so preventable, if only proper health and safety precautions were taken. It was encouraging to meet people creating change in Bangladesh. One of the most inspiring people we met was a woman named Kalpona, she is on a mission to ensure safety standards and fair pay for garment workers in Bangladesh. While the trip to Bangladesh was challenging for us, meeting people like Kalpona is what kept us going. Saran Kennedy-Williams grew up in Kilcoole and Greystones. Saran and her partner Charlotte are now setting up an Ethical Fashion brand and plan to give a large portion of the profits to NGOs like BCWS and others whom they met with over the course of their Bangladesh trip.
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12 | WHAT’S HOT WILDLIFE
with Justin Ivory
Flying ants in Wicklow. Photos by JC Ivory
Ant attack It always makes me smile when annual natural events constantly seem to take the public by surprise. Typically on sticky August (sometimes July if weather is good) afternoons/evenings natures biggest one night stands (as Nick Baker calls them), take place. Essentially hidden beneath our feet - and for the most part unseen - are thousands of huge ant colonies housing millions of these little marvels. In each colony the worker ants have been pampering their resident winged royalty - the queen the males and the potential future queens of new colonies. Typically on sticky August afternoons the winged sexual generation take to the air.
A swarm of flying ants pictured in Wicklow
The colony will empty out onto the pavement, patio etc. - thousands of workers acting as security for the winger ants that will take to the air and mate on the wing. Usually all the colonies in an area, triggered by some unseen cue - temperature, humidity, day length - will empty out at the same time. This synchronisation ensures better genetic mixing across the colonies. The chaos and frenzy of the swarming is usually increased by masses of gulls and other birds availing of the opportunity for an easy meal! After mating the queens land on the ground and remove their wings by rubbing them or pulling them off with their own jaws. This is the first and last time they will fly. The queens now carry enough sperm to last the rest of their lives. The males, having fulfilled their purpose, die!
wicklowvoice.ie August 13 2015
Food tip of the week Pizza at the Royal The Royal Hotel, Main Street, Bray, 01 2862935 The Royal Hotel have just launched their authentic gourmet Italian pizza menu so pop in and grab yourself a slice. The menu offers the classics as well as some new twists on old favourites. Whether you’re a Meat Lover or a Veggie, you’re in for a delicious treat. Great news for those of you who can’t have gluten because the menu offers gluten free bases. There is something to suit every pizza lover in the family. Be sure to check out their €10 beer and pizza deal. The freshly stone baked, handmade pizzas are sure to go down a storm - get yours today.
fundraiser of the week Bray Gospel Choir at the purple house sumo run The Bandstand, Bray Seafront, August 23, 1pm Bray Gospel Choir will be lending their angelic voices to the upcoming Sumo Run in Bray. As participants try to raise money for charity and attempt to break a Guinness World Record, the members of Bray Gospel Choir will be providing the entertainment for runners and supporters alike. This is a free family event and all proceeds from the performance and event will be going towards Purple House Cancer Support. Bring the whole family down for the chance to hear some gospel and soul music and to cheer on the sumo runners. If you would like to find more information about Bray Gospel Choir and keep up to date with their performances, visit www.braygospelchoir. ie. Pictured are Rachel Murray, Scarlett Glynn (11), Sinead Desmond, Evan Masterson and Max Duggan (11). (Pic: Joe Keogh)
book of the week Diary of a Hyperdreamer, volume 2 By Bill Nelson Bill Nelson was a rock star in the 1970’s with the bands Be Bob Deluxe and Red Noise, and has doggedly pursued his music career ever since. His approach to music is to do it on his own terms or not at all, and he adopts a sort of cottage-industry mentality, being involved in all aspects of production and design of his CD’s, projects and other output. As a guitarist he is recognised as one of the greats of his generation. This book is a compilation of diary entries from his Dreamsville website from 2005 and 2006 and is a fascinating insight into his workaholic mind, his dedication to his craft and his struggle to stay on top of a huge workload and still maintain a life of some sort outside his music. It’s a brilliant read for anyone who ever feels they have too much on their plate – I guarantee you Bill Nelson has more! - By Brian Quigley
TV SHOW of the week 50 Ways to Kill Your Mammy Sky One, This hugely popular series is back with Nancy ready to take on any task that thrillseeking son Baz Ashmawy can think to throw her way. The six-part series sees Nancy and Baz travelling all over the world as Baz puts his mammy’s mettle to the test. Baz knows exactly what
childcare idea of the week Tus Nua Montessori Strand Road, Bray, 085 8728157 Tus Nua Montessori and Playgroup are holding an open day on August 15 from11am until 2pm. There will be information available for parents about early enrolment for after school and last places available for ECCE sessions. They have also planned lots of fun and games for the whole family. So be sure to drop in with the whole family and see all that Tus Nua have to offer. The experienced and qualified staff at Tus Nua are dedicated to childcare and education. They offer fun, educational and interactive curriculum for all ages including music club, science club, junior first aid and much more. There are breakfast clubs and after school care for school age children with drop-off and collection from school, homework supervision and fun activities
his mother’s limits are and has planned trips to test those limits. Each week you will be taken on a unique adventure, experiencing the endearing relationship between a brave Irish mammy and her daredevil only son. Pensioner Nancy proved that she is one tough cookie in the first series, but will she have what it takes to make it through the challenges of series two?
6 7 8 9 10
WHAT’S HOT| 13
August 13 2015 wicklowvoice.ie
MOVIE of the week Trainwreck Gaiety Cinema, Arklow Comedy’s It Girl Amy Schumer stars as a promiscuous magazine writer who meets the man of her dreams in Judd Apatow’s finely tuned comedy. Ever since she was a little girl, Amy (Schumer) was told by her philandering father (Colin Quinn) that monogamy isn’t realistic. Now a grown-up journalist, Amy is certainly taking after her dad - sleeping with a succession of people and barely staying around long enough to ask them their names. But when Amy is sent to interview successful sports doctor Aaron Conners (Bill Hader), she soon finds herself questioning her promiscuous lifestyle. Knocked Up director Judd Apatow returns to his comic roots with this contemporary rom-com written by and starring cult comedienne Amy Schumer. Critics have called this Apatow’s best film in years.
HOROSCOPES
Day out idea of the week Avon Ri Lakeshore Resort Blessington Lakeshore, Burgage, Blessington, 045 900670 At Avon Ri you will find the Lakeview Bar and Lounge with its famous Rooftop Terrace overlooking Blessington Lakes. It offers an extensive bar menu with daily changing specials. Now you can enjoy their delicious food in the morning because from August 14 they will be serving a gourmet
breakfast served daily along with a selection of coffees and teas. There is also a great schedule of upcoming entertainment. Quality live music is a staple feature in the Lakeview, offering a mixture of classic and Irish folk music. The bar outdoor terrace is covered, heated and has outdoor lighting with breath-taking lake and mountain views. Any time of day there always a good reason to visit the Lakeshore Bar and Lounge.
Star-B-Q Roundwood, August 15, 6pm, adult €39, child €29
Virgo- This week is a 5 Changes are underway. Avoid someone else’s battle. Share passion and bright ideas. Profit from meticulous service.
GIG of the week Luka Bloom Mermaid Arts Centre, Bray, August 14, 8pm Luka Bloom will take to the Mermaid stage again this August for a one night only spectacular performance. Luka is regarded as one of Ireland’s best-respected contemporary folk artists. The summer of love in 1969 was the first time Luka (known then by his birth name
La Crêperie Pierre Grise is bringing the taste of France to Greystones. Specialising in authentic galettes (savoury crêpes) and sweet crêpes, they also serve Movenpick ice cream and Normandie Cidre. There are ten different galettes to choose from including a vegetarian option. The sweet crêpes include a selection of crêpes glacées or ice cream crêpes. These are then topped with sauces such as homemade chocolate sauce, warm salted caramel butter and strawberry coulis. The newly opened crêperie has proved very popular so far, even running out on flour at their grand opening. Local woman Alison Reilly opened the eatery with her partner, French chef Julien Lefebvre. If you’re looking to treat yourself, then this is definitely the way to go.
Gemini- This week is a 7 Conditions favor travel and learning. Don’t let a cute person talk you into being bad. Investigate new possibilities.
Leo- This week is an 8 Funnel surplus income straight into savings. Avoid timesucking quarrels by ignoring a provocation. Reward collaboration.
Astronomy Ireland will be holding their annual fundraising BBQ under the stars on August 15. The event has become the biggest telescope festival in Ireland with thousands of people coming from all over the country. Everyone is welcome to attend and there is no need to bring your own telescope as they are all provided for families to look through. A huge array of the most powerful telescopes in the country will be set up to show Saturn, the International Space Station and the many wonders of the universe. The event will kick off with a rocket launch. The best shooting star shower of the year will be active on the night, giving 5-10 more shooting stars than normal. Tickets must be purchased in advance from www.astronomy.ie and food and soft drinks are included in the ticket price.
La Crêperie Pierre Grise The Harbour, Greystones, 01 2878352
Taurus- This week is a 9 Find what you need nearby. Move slowly to go faster. A difficult situation will make you stronger. Get creative.
Cancer- This week is a 7 Make a list of everything you want, and prioritise in your budget. Maintain discipline, and get what you need. Share treats with family.
Event of the week
Treat of the week
Aries- This week is a 6 Issues at home draw attention from work. Resistance causes persistence. You can see what a group project needs. Take turns being in charge.
Barry Moore) took to the stage to support his older brother and renowned Irish singer, Christy Moore. Since then he has performed on stages from the United States to Australia, and through every venue imaginable in his native Ireland – in turf bogs, record stores, up on a bike and on protest sites. Tickets are €18/€16. Photo by Claire Burge.
Libra- This week is a 9 Strategise different options. Enjoy playing without taking expensive risks. Romance flowers when you listen for what another wants. Scorpio- This week is a 5 Play with long-range plans. Compromise is required. Listen more than speaking. Find out what everyone wants. Learn from financial mistakes. Sagittarius- This week is a 6 Find what you’re looking for through the grapevine. Socialising strengthens your game over the next while. Speak your message. Capricorn- This week is a 7 Your morale (and your wallet) get a boost. Abandon an assumption. Put in the extra effort. Passions could get intense. Keep paying the bills. Aquarius- This week is an 8 Neither a borrower nor a lender be. Choose a goal that sparks your imagination. Value the opinion of a loved one over an authority figure. Pisces- This week is a 6 Make as much time for meditation and exercise as possible. You’re under pressure regarding deadlines. Contemplate your moves before making them.
14 | LIFESTYLE
wicklowvoice.ie August 13 2015
WHAT’s HOT
with Michelle McGlynn info@wicklowvoice.ie
Debs season
Jacket €299, Waistcoat €72, Bow tie €52, Trousers €156, Shirt €111, all House of Fraser; Sequin one-shoulder maxi dress, Littlewoods Ireland, €134; Dita fan clutch, Accessorize, €50 Now that the Leaving Cert results have been received, full attention can now turn to the final event of school life - the debs. If you’re haven’t found the perfect dress or suit yet, there is no need to panic as there are still lots of wonderful options to be found. Choose from the fresh Autumn/ Winter collections and your fashion will be completely on point. With your outfit organised there is still so much to organise. For a creative, fresh and unique hairstyle, be sure to book in with award-winning salon, Andrew McElroy Hair Concepts in Bray. Fleurtique on the Florence Road, Bray has a beautiful selection of corsages and bouquets to add something special to the evening. With all of this organised, the only thing left to do is have a spectacular night and to Dora Jacquard dress, create memories that will Monsoon, €238 last a lifetime.
fashion
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August 13 2015 wicklowvoice.ie
food
Peter Byrne
Head Chef at Sika Restaurant in The Powerscourt Hotel
Smoked Haddock Vichyssoisse
- MEMBER RATES Ingredients 250g chopped onion 250g chopped leek 1 clove garlic 2 sprigs thyme 1 bay leaf 1 small potato diced 1 large piece smoked haddock diced 1 litre fish stock 1 litre milk Butter
Curry powder Sweat off vegetables and herbs in butter, with a small pinch of curry powder. Add haddock, milk and stocks to vegetables and bring to the boil. Cook for five mins then blitz and strain. Adjust with a little cream and salt. *Note: if you are using haddock to garnish the soup cook this in the milk for the soup for extra flavour.
Druids Glen Full Membership
â‚Ź2,600 Druids Heath Full Membership
â‚Ź1,350
16 |SPECIAL REPORT
wicklowvoice.ie August 13 2015
Alpha CC are celebrating 30 years in business and they are inviting their custmers and friends to celebrate with them. After three decades on Herbert Road, Alpha CC are an important part of the Bray business community. To celebrate their continued success, the team at Alpha CC are holding a BBQ in Sepotember in The Martello. “We are delighted to have reached this milestone and we would like to do something to thank all of our loyal customers for their support over the years,” Director Ruth Donnelly told the Wicklow Voice. “It should be a fantastic evening and we hope to see lots of familiar faces”. There will be music, food and plenty of fun to be had and clients are invited to bring the family along to enjoy an evening of celebration. Since their foundation in 1985, Alpha CC have always made customer service their top priority, providing a service tailored to each client’s individual needs. “Our clients are extremely important to us,” Director Jonathan Donnelly explained. “Alpha CC would not be where it is today without them. “We are excited to enjoy a fun, family day out with everyone to celebrate this occasion.” At the heart of the company’s success is the ability to provide a full 360° set of IT and consultancy services to both SME and large corporate clients. Alpha CC have seen outstanding esults and success in carving a definitive and identifiable niche
within the IT sector. Online services offered include IT cleaning, IT solutions, cloud and online services, they also specialise and consult on data protection. From the optimum in Antistatic Cleaning and sanitisation of IT
equipment to the latest in IT peripherals, networking, maintenance and internet service and design, Alpha Solutions have got you covered. You can run your business more efficiently when you take advantage of the Office 365 Business Premium
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August 13 2015 wicklowvoice.ie
celebrating
30 years in business
which includes all the features of both Microsoft Business Essentials and Microsoft Business in one integrated plan. Great importance is placed on developing close and professional relationships with each client, sourcing
and providing the highest quality solutions available in the market. Contact Alpha CC today on 01 2861800 or see www.alphacc.ie to arrange a free no obligation quote for their services.
We are delighted to have reached this milestone and we would like to thank all of our loyal customers for their support over the years. Our clients are extremely important to us, - Alpha CC would not be where it is today without them
“
From left, Jonathan Donnelly, Ruth Donnelly, Eoin Doran and Michael Nangle of Alpha CC
“
Congratulations to Ruth and all at Alpha CC
would like to wish Alpha CC the very best of luck and thank them for their continued support
18 | SPECIAL REP wicklowvoice.ie August 13 2015
Over the Fran
The bridge over the River Dargle has been the main thoroughfare for hundreds of years but it was recently names the Fran O’Toole Bridge in honour of one of Bray’s most beloved sons. O’Toole was a member of the hugely popular Miami Showband in the 1960s and 70s. Tragedy struck on July 31, 1975 when O’Toole and fellow band members Tony Geraghty and Brian McEvoy were brutally murdered by Loyalist paramilitaries. The bridge was renamed this year to honour O’Toole on the 40th anniversary of his untimely death. Across this bridge, the town is a thriving, bustle centre of activity with a number of fantastic businesses. Read about some of them here. Ladies Workout Express 4 Castle Street, 1st floor, Bray, 01 2828707 Ladies Workout Express are the only gym in Bray who cater exclusively to women of all ages and fitness levels. They have a complete range of fitness and exercise equipment designed exclusively for wom-
en. The people at LWE Bray know that the time you spend in the gym is your time and they seek to ensure that every member gets the individual attention they need and that everything runs smoothly. They offer a variety of classes and due to demand they will be running another Biggest Loser Express from September 14. With a hairdresser and salon in-house what more could a woman want?
Pearl White Dental 2 Belton House, Castle Street, Bray, 01 2863787 Pearl White Dental Clinic is a comprehensive dental practice in Bray. The clinic, which is newly refurbished, offers a 24 hour a day, seven days a week service as well emergency callouts. Contact the clinic to find out details about their monthly dental membership plan of €15 per month. Pearl White Dental make it their mission to treat each patient’s individual needs with professionalism and empathy. Services offered include bleaching, white fillings, veneers and a wide range of advanced procedures to enhance your smile.
Aleksa Hair and Beauty 9 Dublin Road, Bray, 01 2720070 Aleksa Hair and Beauty is a little oasis where you can pamper yourself in a relaxing and friendly environment. Their professional team of stylists are creative and take the time to
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August 13 2015 wicklowvoice.ie
O’Toole Bridge Veronica and Luca (5) Batea are all smiles on Castle Street in Bray
ensure that you are happy with your new style. You will be provided with the highest standard and latest trends in cutting and colouring. They also offer beautician and nail bar services. So you can get your hair, nails and beauty packages all under one roof. You can get a manicure,
pedicure or gel nails while getting your highlights to save time and money. Book today and feel fabulous tomorrow. Everest Music Centre Unit 2, Raven Hall, Dargle Road, Bray, 01 2861933 Everest Music Centre have
been part of Bray’s business community for almost 30 years and during this time they have been proud to offer the best prices and high standard customer service. Specialising in all musical instruments from guitars, amps, effects, keyboards, pianos, drums and violins, they offer a guaranteed after sales service. Their online store allows you the chance to buy from home with the option of collection or delivery for a flat rate charge of just €5. Everest Music Centre also have purpose built music rooms where they run their music school for both adults and children offering lessons in guitar, piano and drums. Everest Cycles Unit 4, Industrial Yarns, Bray, 01 2828660 Everest Cycles have everything you need to help you get on your bike this summer. 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. Ensure that you are visible to other road users no matter what the conditions, pick up a high-vis jacket. If you don’t currently own your own bike, you can avail of Everest Cycles bike rental service which runs until September 30. Courtney Food Service Castle Street, Bray, 01 2829822 At Courtney Food Service you will find a large range of fresh and frozen products all packed in Approved and HACCP compliant factory eliminating the risk of contamination. Their fresh food products are all tested in Foodtech Laboratories on a regular basis. They are licensed to cut beef, lamb, pork, bacon, poultry and game. Courtney Food Service are also licensed to mince any of the above and make our own burgers which are also tested by Foodtech Laboratories. They supply pubs, restaurants, hotels, nursing homes and schools around the Dublin area. This enables them to buy by the pallet, making savings and passing them on to their valued shop customers.
Pearl
20 | ADVERTISING wicklowvoice.ie August 13 2015
Bray Teamwear Tracksuits Track Pants Nylon Jackets Hoodies
Retail €65.00 €25.00 €30.00 €19.00
SALE €10.00 €7.50 €8.00 €6.00
Full printing and Embroidery available. Phone John on:
087 2858088
Buying? Selling? Contact one of our team today e: info@ wicklowvoice.ie w: www. wicklowvoice.ie t: 01 901 5565
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August 13 2015 wicklowvoice.ie
Over the Fran O’Toole bridge
The Balloon Company The Dargle Centre, Castle Street, Bray, 01 5529851 Whatever the occasion, balloons are the ideal way to brighten someone’s day. No matter what the event or your budget, the team at The Balloon
Company are always on hand to give advice and help you to work out the best package for you. They pride themselves on attention to detail and providing each and every customer with an enjoyable and stressfree experience. The Balloon
Company have a wide variety of balloons on offer. Whether it’s for a birthday, a hen party, a baby shower or maybe a balloon bouquet just because - The Balloon Company is the place to go.
AC Garage Unit 6, Industrial Yarns, Bray, 01 2040848 For all your car needs, drop in to AC Garage where they offer the highest quality work and wonderful customer service. Whether you just need an oil service or something a little bit bigger, AC Garage will have
you back on the road in no time. From exhaust repair and electrical problems to suspensions and timing belts, AC Garage offer their services at extremely competitive prices for quality work. Get your car in tip top shape today, book in with AC Garages and enjoy excellent and reliable service. Fitzpatrick Motors Dublin Road, Bray, 01 2041030 The team at Fitzpatrick Motors are always on hand to give you the help and advice that you need.
If you are looking for a new or used vehicle they can introduce you to the extensive range of Ford cars or commercials, arrange a financial package to suit your individual needs and give you the reassurance of their full after sales service. If you al-
ready own a Ford vehicle then Fitzpatrick Motors can offer you first class servicing and repairs by their team of Ford trained technicians. Whatever your motoring needs, Fitzpatrick Motors are there for you. Call in today.
22 | SPORT
wicklowvoice.ie August 13 2015
sport in brief An Tochar The Mens Intermediate team face Baltinglass in the championship on August 15 in Hollywood at 6.30pm. This is the final game of the group stages and a win would see the lads qualify for the quarter finals. All support welcome. Mens Junior B team play championship vs Enniskerry in Ashford on August 13 at 7.15pm. Come out and support the lads. U8 Girls made the trip to Bray on August 8 for a blitz involving the host club, Newtown and St Patricks,Wicklow. Despite being short a number of regulars all girls present put on fantastic performances, winning two of their games.
Arklow Geraldines Tickets are now on sale for premium seats at the All Ireland hurling and football finals with overnight hotel accommodation. Many other prizes are also on offer including a shopping voucher for the Bridgewater Shopping Centre. Tickets on sale from any committee member. The fundraising committee would like to thank all who supported our Cube event
Pictured are the Arklow Geraldines U14 girls who held a Cyclothon in the Bridgewater Shopping Centre, Arklow on July 25 to fundraise for their Féile gear which looked great over Féile weekend. in the Arklow Bay Hotel on August 8 and made it such a success. Thanks to all our fantastic sponsors and also The Arklow Bay hotel, Bridgewater Shopping Centre and Tesco. A special word of thanks to all our members who took part - Damien Redmond, Aidan Ward, James Tyrrell, Philip White, Philip O’Toole, Paul O’Donohue, George Byrne, Darragh Keenan, Donal O’Keeffe, Linda Dempsey, Orla Byrne, Rachael Byrne, Ciaran Hyland, Cormac Hyland and of course our Chairman, John Murphy. Well done to all the competitors but especially the overall winner Ray Nolan who
represented Avondale. The 3rd Garden County Grand Development Draw 2015 took place in Ballinakill, on July 27. AGB had no winners on this occasion. Better luck next time! The club has decided to not go ahead with a summer camp this year. Apologies to all who expressed interest. The AGB Junior Ladies had an evening of hilarity recently with their own Olympic games organised by Mairead Hurley and Michelle Scanlon. Thanks to all who helped make this event a great success. It’s back to business now as the Ladies have their second round game is scheduled for August 17
Upskill for Employment in the Pharmaceutical, Medical Device or Food Industries Innopharma Labs courses upskill and equip people from diverse backgrounds with the expertise/competencies necessary to work in the Pharma, Medical Device & Food sectors. We are now accepting applications for our full range of Certificate, Degree & Masters courses commencing from August in Dublin, Galway & Cork. Courses are FREE to Jobseekers who are eligible for Springboard funding.
Full list of programmes with locations and start dates can be found on our website: www.innopharmalabs.com or call Claire on 01 485 3346
against Carnew. The U10 boys were represented by two strong teams at their home blitz on July 25. Unfortunately Carnew were the only other U10 team able to take part. So it was the perfect opportunity to have a training match - and what a game!
Bray Wanderers
There was no Lotto jackpot winner on August 9. Numbers drawn were 1, 18, 21, 27. €30 lucky dip winners were Gillian Kelly c/o Charlie Kavanagh, Breda Flanaghan c/o John Keating, Deco & Adam c/o Shamrock Bhoys, S. Quinn c/o D. Crinion, Alice Redmond c/o Supporters Club. Next week’s
jackpot is €9,875. Tickets cost €2 each and are on sale in the club shop on match days or you can play the Bray Wanderers Lotto online at www.bwfc.ie. Bray Wanderers are away to St. Patricks Athletic on August 14. Kick off at Richmond Park is 7.45pm. On August 17, Wanderers play Bohemians at the Carlisle Grounds with a kick off time of 7.45pm. Bray Wanderers U19s defeated Shamrock Rovers 3-1 in their latest pre-season friendly on August 8 in the AUL. Bray Wanderers U17s began their under 17 National League campaign on August 9 with a 1-1 draw away to Wexford Youths. David Gilsehan scored for Wanderers on 48 minutes and Wexford equalised in the 92nd minute. Bray Wanderers play Cabinteely on August 15 at 2pm in Wayside Celtic’s Jackson Park. New Bray Wanderers 30 years and Supporters metal badges are now on sale in the club shop at home games. Priced at €3 each. Also new key rings are available at €1 each.
Dublin Raiders Bray based, Dublin Raiders Senior Men’s basketball team are looking to recruit new players for the 2015/16 season. The team play in Div. 2 of the Dublin Men’s Leagues and
play their home matches in the Presentation College Gym, Bray on Tuesday nights. Trials will be held over the next few weeks and any players interested in playing should contact the club secretary on raidersmen@ gmail.com.
Festival of Running The recent Wicklow Hospice Four Day Festival of Running raised a phenomenal €12,000 for the Wicklow Hospice Foundation. On Thursday night last in the Leitrim Lounge, a cheque for this amount was presented to the Chairman of Wicklow Hospice Foundation, Dr. Brendan Cuddihy. Whereas most of the money was raised through entry fees, one of the runners, Wicklow fireman, Mark Redmond raised €3,200 through personal sponsorship. What an achievement! Also included in the total amount was €1,550 which Mark Hitchen raised through his participation in the Cork City Marathon which was held on the June bank holiday weekend, and some contributions from the Ladies 10K which was held on the same day. Well done Mark Hitchen. The committee wishes to thank everyone who made this festival not only a successful but a most enjoyable event.
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August 13 2015 wicklowvoice.ie
insideback
with Brian Quigley
Wanderers’ woes behind them - I hope! There must be something about the number eight up with Bray Wanderers at the moment. Last Saturday – the eighth day of the eighth month of the year – saw The Seagulls record a 1-0 home win over Drogheda United at the Carlisle Grounds and in so doing they extended their highly-unusual sequence of league games ending in a 1-0 scoreline to eight matches. This suite of results has included five victories and three defeats, and the fifteen points garnered from the victories has propelled Mick Cooke’s men into the top six of the SSE Airtricity Premier Division – dizzy heights indeed, and an airspace few would have given the team a chance of soaring to given the off-field issues surrounding the club. The second sequence of league matches is now complete and Wanderers have 11 league fixtures remaining. The Drogheda victory was sweet for Mick Cooke. He had a successful spell with
Tributes to Stones’ Vincent
Tributes have been paid to Greystones’ Vincent Byrne following his passing on August 6. Among those expressing their sympathies were Greystones Rugby Club where Vincent worked. “The president, Trustees, Executive Committee and members of Greystones RFC wish to extend our deep condolences to the family of Vincent Byrne on his untimely passing, particularly his wife Margaret, son Willie and grandson Sam,” they stated on the club’s Facebook page. “For over 30 years Vincent served the club ... Together with Margaret they became synonymous with Greystones Rugby Club ... Vincent will be very sadly missed by the whole rugby family the length and breadth of Ireland.”
Dr. Brendan Cuddihy receiving the cheque from Bill Porter for €12,000 from the recent Wicklow Hospice Four Day Festival of Running (see story on page 22) the Boynesiders a few years ago and he is now working his magic in Wicklow. Bray turned in an assured and accomplished performance that should have seen them take the lead earlier in the game but for the Drogheda woodwork coming to their rescue on a couple of occasions. In the end, Hugh
Douglas’ winning goal came late but a win is a win. Peter Cherrie’s arrival has coincided with this recent upturn in form for Bray and the ex-Dundalk netminder kept another clean sheet, fresh from receiving the Bray Wanderers Supporters’ Club Player of the Month award for July.
A feature of the team’s decline earlier in the season was the leaking of a lot of goals but Cherrie has helped stopped the rot. Bray have also been buoyed by the news that the influential David Cassidy will be staying at the club (he had been the target of several clubs including
Shamrock Rovers during the transfer window). Bray will travel to Inchicore tomorrow night August 14 to take on high-flying St Patricks Athletic at Richmond Park before facing into back-to-back fixtures with Bohemians. The first of these will be at home in the league on Monday
Ireland’s National Music Education Programme A Music Network Initiative, co-founded by U2, The Ireland Funds, The Department of Education and Skills and Local Music Education Partnerships
Kildare and Wicklow Education & Training Board on behalf of Music Generation Wicklow invites expressions of interest from suitably qualified and experienced persons interested in being selected as Committee Members of Wicklow Music Education Partnership. Applicants should have a proven track record in one of the following areas: music education, cultural programmes, community or youth development. Further information and Expression of Interest Forms: from Ann Catherine Nolan at anncatherinenolan@kwetb.ie or 0404 60505 Closing date for submission of completed forms is Friday 14th August 2015 at 5.00pm For more information on Music Generation Wicklow see www.musicgeneratonwicklow.ie
The Rehab Group is an equal opportunities employer
August 17 and the following Friday August 21 will see The Seagulls travel to Dalymount Park to play their hosts in the next round of the FAI Cup. We wish Wanderers the best of luck in this tough upcoming sequence of games – three 1-0 victories would go down nicely! Bray’s underage teams will be kicking off their seasons later this month. Both the U19s and newlyformed U17s will play in Section 1 of the league for their age category. The U19s start with a home match against Waterford United before travelling to Cork for their second game. Graham Kelly’s U17s start with a trip to Ferrycarrig to take on Wexford Youths before hosting Cabinteely. Both sides have been impressive in pre-season games. The U17 and U19 teams will provide progression for our young footballers and are part of the FAI’s player development plan.
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wicklowvoice.ie August 13 2015