Wicklow Voice August 7 2014

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August 7, 2014, t: 01 901 5556/7, e:Wicklow info@wicklowvoice.ie Voice Front(F 2):Layout 1 01/08/2014 11:27 Page 1

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Donnelly: I’m not joining Fianna Fáil

Independent TD rules out Soldiers switch

By Cianan Brennan

STEPHEN Donnelly has denied that he is set to join Fianna Fáil in the run-up to the next general election.

There have been persistent rumours that the Independent TD for Wicklow and East Carlow had been approached by Fianna Fáil to run for the party in the Wicklow five-seater next time round.

The speculation intensified recently following articles in Phoenix Magazine and an interview in the Irish Times.

However, when asked directly on his Facebook page if he was joining Fianna Fáil, Donnelly responded: “As before, nope…

I’m just tired of being asked so I said I didn’t want to talk about it in the interview,” he insisted.

In the Irish Times’ interview,

Donnelly was relatively evasive when asked where his near-term political ambitions lay.

“Am I looking at the various options which may or may not be available to me? Of course I am,” he said.

He suggested that “navel gazing out loud” about such matters was unhelpful and frustrating for those who had voted for him.

Wicklow was once a Fianna Fáil stronghold, however at present the party holds no seat in the constituency and the main opposition party is expected to recoup some of its losses at the next general election.

However, while it has many viable candidates in south Wicklow, the party is short on credible runners around Bray and Greystones, of which Donnelly is native.

Pictured at the Bray Summerfest 2014 is Zara Cooke.

Photo: Keogh Photography » Lots more pictures from around the county inside

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4 | NEWS news in brief Land of the Giants Hollywood fair 2014

wicklowvoice.ie August 7 2014

‘Prince’ crowned by WWE

The Hollywood Fair will take place in Hollywood, Co. Wicklow from Wednesday, August 13 until Sunday, August 17. Now in its fourth year, the pre-1950s rural heritage theme of the fair has proved a big hit. For information on events see www.thehollywoodfair.com.

Sephira at the Mermaid

The international music phenomenon, Sephira, will be performing at the Mermaid Arts Centre, Bray on Friday, August 15. Vocalists, violinists and record producers, sisters Ruth and Joyce deliver their distinct musical brand of powerful melodies with an exhilarating string-driven performance.

Everest Cycles open for business

The recent fire on Castle Street severely damaged several businesses including Everest Cycles. Everest Cycles are now open for business in their temporary location in Lidl, Bray while their premises is restored.

Fergal ‘Prince’ Devitt in action fully making the move to the mainstream.

Fergal, better known under his ring name Prince Devitt, is clearly delighted with what amounts to signing for Real Madrid or Barcelona in wrestling terms.

“This is something I’ve been looking forward to since I was maybe four or five years old,” he said.

“To get the chance to step in the ring that I’ve watched on tv so many times is a dream come true.”

Devitt has been competing for over 10 years, and after a highly successful spell with

By Cianan Brennan THE residents of Wicklow may not know their Frog Splashes from their Figure Four Leglocks, but that may be all about to change as one of very our own has been signed up by the wrestling behemoth that is WWE (World Wrestling Entertainment).

Bray-native Fergal Devitt (33) has been signed to the marquee ‘sports entertainment’ franchise and will train with their development arm NXT, based in Orlando, Florida, before hope-

news in brief

AUGUST EVENTS AT THE HARBOUR BAR

Walk rescheduled

THUR 7 DARRAGH CULLEN & IAN O’DOHERTY [AMA Emerging Artists]

THE BLACK VELVETS [Blues Rock] SAT 9 ZASKA BAND [Jazz Funk] SUN 10 CONOR LINNIE [Local Singer Songwriter, 5 Piece] FRI 8

THUR 14 LEE MEHAN & MICK PYRO BLUES QUARTET FRI 15 THE BURNING EFFIGIES

[Blues]

[Funk]

[Rock/Pop] SAT 16 BIG SEPTEMBER SUN 17 THE SONG ROOM PRESENTS [Various]

THUR 21 EAST COAST JAZZ BAND

[Dixieland Jazz]

FRI 22 HALF OF ME

[Rock]

SAT 23 CREATED BY COMETS

[Funk]

SUN 24 LEE MEHAN & HUGH BUCKLEY

[Jazz & Soul Duo]

THUR 28 CHILDREN OF THE SUN / SAMPLE ANSWER

THE BRIAN MEAKIN BAND SAT 30 GAVIN GLASS [Americana] SUN 31 MARY COUGHLAN [Jazz, blues] FRI 29

New Japan Pro Wrestling has been one of the most sought after signatures in the grappling world for some time.

He joins fellow Irish fighters Sheamus (one of the most popular ‘heels’ or villains in wrestling at present) and female wrestler Becky Lynch at the WWE. Devitt had been hinting at his new career turn on Twitter for some time, including appropriating an election poster of Fine Gael south Dublin council candidate Ronan McMahon, a play on WWE chief executive Vince McMahon’s surname.

[AMA Emerging Artists] [Blues]

The Native Woodland Trust butterfly walk has been rescheduled and will now take place on Saturday, August 16 at 12pm. The walk will take place at the Blessington Reserve and participants will meet at the ESB car park off the N11 just south of the reserve at 12pm.

Wriggle 1:1 First year students at Colaiste Chraobh Abhann in Wicklow will officially join the Wriggle 1:1 mobile learning programme on Wednesday, August 20, when they will receive their ‘digital’ schoolbags. Approx. 130 first year students at the school will now use mobile devices and digital textbooks in place of traditional textbooks, joining over 7,000 students in 80+ schools throughout Ireland participating in the Wriggle programme this coming academic year.

Meeting of ACI The North Wicklow branch of the Association of Catholics in Ireland will meet at the portacabin in St. Fergal’s church grounds, Bray on Tuesday, August 12 at 7.30pm.

Our lung cancer rates are third highest

By Cianan Brennan

A NEW county-by-county survey has found that County Wicklow has the third highest rate of lung cancer in the country.

The survey shows the Garden County with levels of the deadly disease second only to neighbouring Carlow and Dublin.

However, 90% of the people surveyed stated that they consider themselves in very good or good health (this conforms to the national average of 88.3%).

The number of lung cancer cases per 100,000 in Wicklow is 53.96, 22 more than that seen in Leitrim, the county with the lowest rate for the disease.

Wicklow’s mortality rate for lung cancer, though still far from ideal, is slightly more positive, the seventh highest in the country at 39.93 deaths per 100,000 population.

The county’s rate for nonmelanoma skin cancer is also the third highest in the country, behind Cork and Dublin.

The rates for this kind of skin cancer are 201.3 per 100,000, more than 90 greater than Leitrim which again has the lowest incidence rate.

However, the mortality rate for this kind of skin cancer is quite low at less than 2 deaths per 100,000.

Prostate cancer, which is very common particularly among older men, sees its second highest mortality rate in Wicklow, with 35.47 deaths per 100,000.

Incidences of the disease are more manageable, standing at 159.47 per 100,000, or 11th highest in Ireland.

The survey also found that Wicklow has the second highest incidence of children with a disability in the country,

second only to Limerick, at 64.9 incidences per 1,000 population.

All told 17,616 Wicklow people are listed as suffering from some form of disability.

On a more positive note, Wicklow’s mortality rate from breast cancer is the lowest in the country, with 9.69 deaths per 100,000 population, fully 14 less than in Waterford where the death rate is highest.

Breastfeeding rates in Wicklow are also positive, standing at the fourth highest in Ireland, with well over half the infant population being breastfed upon return from hospital (the lowest percentage is in Limerick again which stands at 37.8%.)

The death rate among newborns is slightly above the national average at 5.3 deaths per 1,000 live births (the average being 3.5).

Coronary health within Wicklow falls well within the lower ranges seen countrywide with roughly 159 deaths as a result heart attacks, strokes or high blood pressure per 100,000 people surveyed.

14.4% of Wicklow’s population would be considered obese, while 3.1% of the population had been diagnosed with diabetes in the previous 12 months.

There are roughly 55 GPs per 100,000 population in Wicklow, while roughly 38.5% of residents hold a medical card.

People treated for alcohol abuse numbered 71.2 per 100,000, while the suicide rate in the county stands at 10.1 per 100,000.

Where children’s mental health is concerned, the figures show a rate of 35.7 psychiatric hospital admissions per 100,000 surveyed, slightly below the national average of 37.9 The study was commissioned by the Irish Examiner,

NEWS |5

August 7 2014 wicklowvoice.ie

wicklow people in pictures

Celestial Light Clann at the Wicklow Regatta festival (Pic.Ceaneacht O Hoctun)

The winners of the Wicklow Regatta singing pubs, Kings of Glenealy (Pic.Ceaneacht O Hoctun)

The newly crowned Maritime Queen Nadine Murphy pictured with her King Tony Fennel of the Arklow RNLI (pic: Yvette O Beirne)

Pictured at the Bray Summerfest 2014 are Ruby (age 2), Ja and Tyler (age 16 mths) Hennessey.

Photo: Keogh Photography

Emma Bannerman pictured with Declan Meehan of East Coast FM during his live show from the lifeboat station in Arklow.

Emma was the lucky winner of a weekend trip for two. (pic: Yvette O Beirne)

Pictured at the Bray Summerfest 2014 Glenroe Petting Farm on the seafront are Gareth Moore, Andrea Rogers and Skyler Moore (12mths).

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Four Wicklow stores in running for best shop gong

By Cianan Brennan

THE Irish Times Best Shops in Ireland competition is running again this year and at least four Wicklow shops are in the running for a prestigious accolade.

Unique accessories shop La Belle, Italian food specialists Campo De’ Fiori Risto-Market (both in Bray), Anna Schu beauty (Bray and Delgany), and organic meat purveyors Farrelly’s Butchers of Delgany have all been nominated.

Curiosity shop La Belle, Quinnsboro Road, Bray, has received glowing testimonials on social networks Facebook and Pinterest.

One user said: “Love this little shop, full of the prettiest things and the ladies are so helpful.”

Another online follower agrees: “This little shop is an absolute find! Thank you ladies for your help today, will be back soon.”

The Daily Mail has described

Campo De’ Fiori (the market is based on Albert Avenue in Bray) as one of the few Italian restaurants in Ireland that creates dishes ‘that would go down well back home’.

“It’s very much part of this seaside town, but it’s also one of the few restaurants in Ireland where I’ve had a waiter enthuse about my choice of wine on the basis that it’s from his own village in the Alto Adige,” continues their enthusiastic review.

Beauty therapists Anna Schu were established as recently as 2010 and now boast three outlets in their portfolio, in Bray, Delgany, and Stillorgan.

Their loyal following have been endorsing them enthusiastically on Facebook.

One bride planning for her big day was effusive in her praise on their page: “Thanks to all the team in Bray, Emma, Cindy, Christine for the pre-wedding treatments and the fab makeup for our mums, it’s always a

pleasure to walk through your doors!”

Farrelly’s of Delgany meanwhile, who boast their own abbatoir together with a distinctly quirky approach to social media and advertising their meat in store, are similarly being voted for in their droves by happy customers.

They became a hit nationwide late last year when a sign in-store stating that their natural chicken breasts are more Miriam O’Callaghan than Jordan went viral online.

There are 10 categories for this year’s competition, including Best Boutique, Best Artisan Food, Best Salon and Best Specialist Shop for which the various Wicklow establishments have been nominated.

If you want to vote for any of the shops mentioned here (or indeed any other Wicklowbased business!) go to www. irishtimes.com/life-and-style/ best-shop-2014/nominate

Soaking up the atmosphere

news in brief Librarian position

APPROVAL has been granted by the Department of Environment to fill Executive Librarian positions in Greystones and Blessington libraries. This news has been welcomed as the libraries had been understaffed and led to the closure of Greystones library on Fridays and the full closure of the Local Studies library in Ballywaltrim, Bray.

121digital funding

Mark Corcoran certainly got more than his feet wet at the RNLI Maritime Festival in Arklow (pic: Yvette O Beirne)

121digital, a programme in which transition year students volunteer to tutor local adults in the use of their digital devices, will receive a basic level of funding from the government (DCENR).

Lessons will recommence in September, for information see www.121digital.ie.

Rory Benville

Leaving her sailing boots aside ASC commodore Joyce Crosbie takes a dip in the dunk tank at the RNLI festival. (pic: Yvette O Beirne)

The President of Bray and District Chamber, Rory Benville, formally accepted the Presidency of the County Wicklow Chamber on Tuesday, July 22. Benville commented that he is looking forward to his term and working with the other Chambers in what is still a very difficult economic environment.

8 | NEWS wicklowvoice.ie August 7 2014

Glynns reunited as siblings jet out to see Gavin

By Cianan Brennan

TEAM Gavin Glynn has been reunited in Houston, Texas as the family’s older children Conor and Lucy made the trip across the Atlantic to see their little brother.

The family posted a very happy photograph online from airport arrivals in Houston of the five Glynns all together once more, with little Gavin in his buggy to the fore.

Gavin’s siblings travelled with their mother’s sister Deborah, and speaking on Team Gavin’s Facebook page father John could not contain his excitement at seeing his children once more.

“We miss them so much. It’s been nearly six weeks now, and even though we speak every night, it’s just not the same.”

“We cannot wait to see them, my God they will be killed with love and hugs they will not know what hit them!”

Inspirational Gavin is on the road to recovery and has started his latest round of chemotherapy treatment in his bid to beat the cancer that has affected him so terribly.

After recently undergoing an 11-hour operation to remove the malignant tumors from his pelvis at the specialised MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, Gavin’s subsequent progress has been steady.

And the brave youngster (4) has been officially discharged from hospital so he can continue his recovery and treatment from the Glynn’s home from home, a rented apartment in Houston.

His parents John and Jayne had travelled to the US for the life-saving surgery in June and knew they would be away from

news in brief Reduction in commercial rates The commercial rates multiplier that currently applies to businesses in the Greystones town area have been removed.

This comes as part of an equalisation of rates by Wicklow County Council.

The standard county Annual Rate of Valuation of 76.78 will apply from 2015.

The Glynn family in the airport in Houston the rest of their family for at least six weeks.

Gavin’s indomitable spirit in the face of harrowing adversity has made the youngster a national hero.

When it became clear that an operation in Texas was his final option over €400,000 was raised in charitable donations across Ireland in less than a week in order to fund his care.

Back home, the fundraising initiatives continue apace as with American medical care being so notoriously expensive every penny really does count.

Next up is a tag rugby blitz be-

ing run by Greystones RFC and Lucas Promotions on Saturday August 23, with all proceeds going towards Superteam Gavin Glynn.

Along with the blitz itself which runs from 11am at the club grounds, there will be more than €3,000 in raffle prizes being given out on the day, with tickets available through local outlets.

Teams can be registered via the event’s Facebook page SuperGavTagBlitz, or by emailing supergavtagrugby@gmail. com, with an entry charge of €250 per team.

Students sample university

Swim restrictions on Wicklow beaches

TWO young Wicklow people with physical and sensory disabilities realised their dream of doing a college course when they took courses in UCD with thanks to RehabCare’s New Horizons service in Stillorgan.

Luke Sterling from Bray and Aoife Hurley from Arklow returned to UCD on Friday, July 25 for a special ceremony where they were presented with certificates of participation.

WICKLOW County Council have issued a precautionary notice banning swimming at Bray North and South promenades.

Members of the public are advised not to swim until this notice has been lifted by the council.

A council spokesman said it is suspected that heavy rainfall may have led to sewage being discharged from the waste water treatment plant or the sewer network.

August 7 2014 wicklowvoice.ie

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10 | NEWS

wicklowvoice.ie August 7 2014

news in brief Dublin Horse Show ticket winners Congratulations to the winners of our Discover Ireland Dublin Horse Show competition. Keith Callaghan from Delgany was the winner of the family pass while Deirdre MacRory won the two single admissions. We hope you all have a wonderful day at the RDS.

Rathmichael summer school

The 40th Summer Series of Evening Lectures organised by the Rathmichael Historical Society, takes place in Rathmichael School, Stonebridge Road, Shankill.

All lectures commence at 8 pm nightly. Admission per lecture €4 and includes refreshments.

Jason and the Argonauts

Enjoy some outdoor theatre at Killruddery House and Gardens this August as Off The Ground present Jason and the Argonauts. The tale of Greek myths and legends will be performed on August 17 with gate opening at 6.30pm.

Vintage car rally As part of National Heritage Week, the Irish Vintage and Veteran Car Club will hold their 37th annual car rally at Powerscourt Estate, Enniskerry on Sunday, August 17 at 2.30pm. Admire more than 150 vintage cars and come dressed in your vintage best. The event is free of charge.

Wicklow comes out top in tourism survey

By Cianan Brennan

IT’S been a good couple of weeks for Wicklow’s thriving tourist industry.

A new survey by Fáilte Ireland, the Irish tourism body, has found that visitors to Wicklow found its people amongst the friendliest in Ireland.

The area designated ‘Dublin’s Doorstep’ was given an average rating of 4.93 out of five when it came to rating the locals’ friendliness, comfortably outranking the south-east of the country which scored the lowest with just 4.65.

The study is based on the opinions of 10,000 domestic and international tourists who holidayed in Ireland between May and October last year.

Meanwhile, Bray Summerfest drew to a triumphant close with the news that no fewer than 200,000 visitors had been attracted to the town by the month long festival.

Festival Director Mick Glynn spoke warmly of this year’s festival experience, which is estimated to have contributed €8 million to the local economy in the tourism and hospitality sectors.

“It was another great Summerfest, really focusing on family fun over the five themed weekends,” he said.

Pictured at the Bray Summerfest 2014 Marian Lambert Puppet Show at Bray’s Iconic Bandstand.

Photo: Keogh Photography “We hit new heights in 2014, we’ve achieved a lot, all with the help of our team of volunteers. Each year they make a fantastic contribution to the Summerfest and the community as a whole.”

Highlights of the festival included the Air Show weekend which attracted 88,000 spectators and was broadcast live online, while the Bray Head waterslide proved a massive draw with over 9,000 people applying to have their turn.

In Greystones, the Harbour

Marina has stated that 2014 is set to be a record year from a tourism perspective, with the expected figure of 3,000 visitors for the year already being surpassed.

“Our overseas visitors especially talk favourably about the peaceful surroundings of Greystones and the ease of access to a lively town which has been voted one of the best places to live in Ireland,” said manager of the Harbour Marina Alan Corr “They love the ambiance,

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the huge variety of good restaurants, coffee shops, bars and retail outlets, all within an easy stroll of the marina which makes it such an attractive place to stay.”

The icing on the cake is the news that Fáilte Ireland has specific ideas in mind to help boost tourist numbers to Wicklow even further and enhance the experience of all visitors to the county.

The news was delivered to Wicklow TD Andrew Doyle in response to a parliamen-

tary question he submitted to the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport.

Speaking to the Wicklow Voice, Doyle suggested there were two particular initiatives in the offing: a walkway/cycleway between Arklow, Shillelagh and Coolattin, and a branding of the southern coastal Wicklow route along the lines of the Wild Atlantic Way that was launched to great success in the northwest of the country this year.

“The walkway from Arklow would be done along disused railway lines in a similar fashion to the Greenway cycle paths seen in Dublin and its hinterlands. Part of this has already been seen at Tinahely where the locals have done a terrific job,” he said.

“As for the coastal route, you have scenery on a par with any in the country, together with Mount Usher Gardens, Wicklow Town Gaol, Glendalough and others.”

“In Wicklow we have beaches, gardens and walking trails and Wicklow Tourism will be prioritising those three.”

“For this to succeed we’ll need buy-in and cooperation between all interested parties, local authorities in particular, and Fáilte Ireland, but it will be to everyone’s benefit in the end,” he added.

NEWS | 11

August 7 2014 wicklowvoice.ie

Faces of fun enjoy a day out

JP (6) and Darragh (4) McGreer from Baltinglass enjoy the open day at Eurospar in the town

Seafaring tradition dates from Viking times down the decades

LONG after all traces of the Bronze Age inhabitants around Wicklow Town disappeared folklore says that when St. Patrick and his followers arrived in the area they were not welcome and the locals threw

stones at the monks. One of the monks had his teeth knocked out and was nicknamed ‘Mantán’, which means ‘the toothless one’! Mantán went on to establish a church in the area and hence the Irish name, “Cill Mhantáin” which means the ‘church of the toothless one’.

Things settled down in the area until the arrival of the Vikings in 795AD where Wick-

low’s natural harbour enabled them to establish a settlement and a base for their long ships.

It is from the Vikings that we get the modern name of the area coming from ‘Vikinglo’, meaning ‘Viking Meadow’.

It is really from the time of the Vikings that Wicklow gets its seafaring tradition.

This tradition has continued right up to the present day and

includes the sterling work done by the Wicklow Lifeboat Service protecting all those who use the Irish sea.

Philip Byrne is a Storyteller who under the title of Positive Outcomes is available for storytelling events for children and adults including special needs groups. He can be contacted on 087 2627806.

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12 | OPINION

opinion&comment

Dumping plastic on our beaches is killing wildlife

N

ext month, I and many of my colleagues from Sea Life Bray will get involved in the Big Beach Clean.

Wicklow’s beaches deserve a good end of season clean-up after a summer of locals , holiday makers, and others enjoying seaside festivals such as Bray’s Summerfest, Gourmet Greystones, Kilcoole’s Gunrunning Centenary, Wicklow Town’s Sailfest and Regatta, and Arklow’s Seabreeze.

And though Bray, where I am based, is fortunate to have a great team of council workers who keep our seafront clean, clearing away larger pieces of rubbish fairly promptly, even they struggle to clear the beach of the smaller pieces, both left behind and washed up from the sea all along our Wicklow coastline. So when you get down close, there can be quite an amount of objects that don’t belong on a beach.

And so I was reflecting on what we found on last year’s beach clean. Covering a 50 m stretch, we filled a dozen or so black bags.

The two most common items picked up were cigarette butts and plastic ice cream spoons (did you know that research has shown that eating ice cream with a plastic spoon is a better experience than eating it with a wooden spoon?). Both products made from plastic, and this made me think about how much we use plastic in our daily lives, and how much of an impact it has on the marine environment.

We change our environment as we subject our world to a tidal wave of plastic waste.

Mankind has actually produced more plastic in the last 10 years than in the whole of the last century. And 50% of that plastic is used just once and then thrown away! And a lot of that plastic pollution ends up in our oceans and seas. Marine habitats that end up as the graveyard for the million seabirds and 100,00 marine mammals that are estimated to be killed by plastics in our oceans. These plastics have been found in 44% of all seabird species, in 22% of all cetaceans (dolphins and whales) and a growing list of fish species.

Some of these pieces of plastic can be quite large. Take the common plastic bag as an example: out at sea, floating on the surface it can easily be mistaken by a sea turtle for a jellyfish (one of their favourite foods). When eaten this plastic bag can foul up the digestive system of the turtle, causing it great pain, and even death. (In fairness, since the government introduced the tax on plastic bags, the number of bags thrown away in Ireland has dropped dramatically, and is now a much smaller cause of marine pollution).

But the killer plastics that are causing serious problems in our seas are actually ones that we cannot see, and that most of us are not even aware of. Plastic beads barely 1mm wide called microbeads are finding their way

into our marine world. These tiny particles of plastic are ingredients in thousands of personal care products such as toothpaste, facial scrubs and body washes. So when we rinse off, these microbeads are so small that they flow straight down the bathroom drain and into the sewerage system. And because our waste water treatment systems are not designed to filter out these bits of plastic, they end up in the ocean. From there, they are absorbed or ingested by sea creatures, and so get passed along the marine food chain. And not being biodegradable, they are impossible to remove from the marine ecosystem. Not only that, but they leak petrochemicals, and over time, they become more toxic. These toxins then biomagnify up the food chain resulting in the top predators (us) consuming the highest concentration of these toxins. So not only do they harm the environment and the animals that live in it, but they also have the capacity to harm us.

It is sometimes difficult in our daily lives to feel that we can effect real change for good, but a couple of lifestyle changes could make such a difference to the marine world: • Eat ice cream out of a cone rather than from a tub • And don’t use personal care products that contain microbeads.

“T

IF ALL THIS APPLIES TO NEWSPAPERS AND FOOTBALL TEAMS, HOW MUCH MORE DOES IT APPLY TO A POLICE FORCE

Remember our coastlines are for everyone, including the wildlife, so please make you clean up after yourself.

Pat Ó Súilleabháin is General Manager of National Sea Life Centre, Bray, County Wicklow and a Director of Bray Tourism.

THE BIG BEACH CLEAN 2014 WILL FORM PART OF AN INTERNATIONAL COASTAL CLEAN UP RUN BY THE OCEAN CONSERVANCY FOR WHICH AN TAISCE IS THE NATIONAL COORDINATOR

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 Pat Ó Súilleabháin with Michael Wolsey

Garda criticism is pure hypocrisy here is hypocrisy at the heart of much of the recent criticism of An Garda Siochána which has centred on secrecy within the force, a tendency to circle the wagons when in trouble and a distrust of whistle blowers which can quickly turn to hostility.

I am not defending any of this. The hypocrisy lies not in the criticism itself but in the implication that it is somehow unique to the Garda. I find it difficult to believe that anyone who has ever worked for a corporate entity in Ireland (or anywhere else) is unfamiliar with this code of omerta. If they are successful in their job they will almost certainly have practised it.

I know I did.

Until a few years I had spent my life working for large newspaper corporations. Defending your own and supporting your colleagues were always the unwritten rules of editorial life - unwritten, not because anyone was ashamed of them, but because they came so naturally to us that there was no need to write them down.

Vinny Doyle, probably the greatest newspaper editor of his generation, prized loyalty above all else. If one of his journalists messed up, they would face the considerable wrath of the editor but they would face it in the certain knowledge that, unless the issue ended up in court, or with an apology published in the paper, it would go no further than the editor’s office.

Vinny would never breathe a word of it to higher management. The buck stopped at his desk.

If an apology was required it would be issued on behalf of the newspaper.

The offending journalist would never be named. Nor would (s)he be called to court unless vital as a witness.

It was the publisher who got sued and the editor who carried the can. An editor who threw a journalist to the legal wolves would not have survived long in the job. Like a football manager who has lost the dressing room, (s)he would have been too mistrusted to function.

For Vinny, and all of us, this loyalty was a two-way street. Daily newspapers are competitive. Reporters and editors are constantly pitted against deadlines as well as rival publications.

So sometimes they will cut corners.

I am not thinking of such blatant illegalities as phone-tapping but the minor deceptions and evasions considered necessary to get a good story printed fast.

We all knew the reporters who did these things and, right or wrong, we all defended them. The first rule was not to get caught. A reporter who slipped up in the interests of trying to

beat the opposition to a scoop would earn the praise of colleagues. A reporter who slipped up through laziness or carelessness would earn their disapproval. But either way, you, dear readers, would never have heard of it.

Omerta ruled OK. Newspapers and the Mafia are not the only professions to practise the code. Good teachers will support bad teachers. They may bitch like hell about them but what’s said in the staffroom stays in the staffroom. Doctors back doctors, lawyers support lawyers and IT workers never call their work mates nerds in public. Political parties may scatter dirty linen all around their offices and meeting rooms but they rarely wash it in public. Seán Lemass had trouble with the word loyalty.

Like many Dubliners, he pronounced it loylaty. But if he didn’t know how to say it, he knew what it meant and it was the quality he most valued in his lieutenants.

Charles Haughey took the same view. ‘Uno duce, una voce’ was how his handler PJ Mara summed it up.

In public only the leader’s voice was heard. Those who disagreed kept the disagreement private. Loyalty.

It is ironic that Sinn Fein should be leading the hue and cry against Garda secrecy. No political party is a more enthusiastic practioner of the code of omerta. That was understandable, perhaps, when they marched hand in hand with the IRA. But even today you have more chance of hearing the third secret of Fatima than a Sinn Fein tale told out of school.

Sports teams and bodies take a similar view. The GAA does not like members who break ranks and even former players who become TV pundits are seen as somehow straying beyond the bounds of decency when they speak ill of one of their own. Ask Joe Brolly.

It’s the same in soccer. Liverpool defended Luis Suarez through rows over racial comments and biting. I would be surprised if that was the club’s unanimous view but criticism did not get beyond the boot room. The only whistle blowers at Anfield are the referees and that’s been the rule from Shankly on. Loyalty.

If all this applies to newspapers and football teams, how much more does it apply to a police force whose members may depend for their very lives on colleagues minding their backs?

Loyalty. For An Garda Siochána it can be a matter of life and death.

Maybe this does not excuse a culture of secrecy but it does explain it.

Michael Wolsey is a former deputy editor of the Irish Independent, and sits on the judging panel for the National Newspaper of Ireland Journalism Awards.

OPINION| 13

August 7 2014 wicklowvoice.ie

anyotherbusiness

Have you got a story?

Then email thecaptain@wicklowvoice.ie

By Captain Louis

Seanie show to return Just when we thought it was safe to return to a court room, we hear that Greystones’ Sean FitzPatrick is facing another trial in February next year related to his time at Anglo. Seanie may also be forced to apply for legal aid as he faces 12 charges of failing to disclose loans to auditors Ernst & Young, the true value of those loans estimated at at least €139m by Irish Nationwide Building Society from 2002 to 2007 while he was an officer of Anglo. His solicitor, Michael Staines, told Dublin Circuit Criminal Court that Seanie will not be able to fund his upcoming case unless he is awarded his costs from a previous trial in which he was acquitted on all charges. Wallets out lads, I feel a whip round coming on ...

Anna Schu waxes lyrical

It was a wet day for Cllr: Tommy Annesley taking part in the Maritime Festival in Arklow (pic: Yvette O Beirne)

40 years on, Turlough Hill is still a modern marvel

I

f you were watching the World Cup final last month you probably turned on your television set at the same time as most of the country. You probably put the kettle on for half-time tea at the same time as everyone else too.

There’s a Wicklow connection here. Peak-time demand for electricity is invariably catered for by power generated at Wicklow’s Turlough Hill plant, which is celebrating its 40th birthday this year. The ESB are marking the occasion by offering free tours of the facility and this tour is well worth taking as the facility resembles something from a James Bond movie. Going back to the World Cup, Germany won this year and 40 years ago as Turlough Hill was opening they were victorious too (as West Germany, with Beckenbauer in the side)!

Turlough Hill, which is located near enough to Glendalough, is a bit special. It’s the country’s only pumped-storage hydroelectric generating scheme.

It represents an innovative approach to delivering sustainable energy solutions. It operates by transferring water between two reservoirs; the lower, naturally-occurring corrie Lough Nahanagan and an artificiallycreated upper reservoir. Water is pumped up to the upper reservoir at night using excess

Brian Quigley power in the grid and at times of peak demand the next day the water is released from the upper reservoir through a pressure tunnel and as it falls it provides the fuel for the turbines to generate electricity. It can go from standstill to full production in seventy seconds compared to twelve hours for a conventional thermal (coal, gas or peat) generating facility, hence its use for peak-demand electricity supply to the grid.

In all probability Turlough Hill would probably never have gotten built today. Even though it is accredited to ISO18001 (the international Safety Management System) and ISO14001 (the international Environmental Management System), it probably would get tied up in too much red tape and planning controversy. What does this say about the progress we have made over the last forty years?

Have we made it harder to implement innovative change?

Look at the difficulty that

arose in putting on some Garth Brooks concerts in Croke Park recently or the Eirgrid controversy around the north-south energy highway.

That’s not to say there were no environmental considerations around Turlough Hill.

There were, but they were dealt with methodically and with due concern. ESB spent four years looking at various locations (all in Wicklow) between 1964 and 1968 before approving Turlough Hill (construction and commissioning took from 1968 to 1974). If you visit the site today (to take the free tour I mentioned earlier you need to book on the ESB website as numbers are limited for each time slot) the first thing you notice is that you would hardly even know it was there! The ESB made sure that vegetation was planted to keep the lower reservoir out of view from the road and both reservoirs fit in with the natural rock formation of the area. Local fauna such as dwarf willow, cowberry, crowberry, fir clubmoss and bilberry all thrive.

Even if the Turlough Hill facility was approved today it would probably cost way more in comparative terms than the modest £22m punts it did at the time. The story behind its construction speaks volumes for the initiative, foresight and innovation that was present in Irish politics at the time, particularly the Lemass governments. When

we were unable to finance the project from the exchequer, a World Bank loan was secured at reasonable terms, knowing that the facility would more than repay the investment (it has – it is still going and has only required one major set of upgrade works during all that time).

Environmental concerns surrounding the overhead cables needed as transmission lines to bring the generated power to the grid were listened too and taken on board – as a result about a mile of cabling near the village of Hollywood was sent underground. The construction and commissioning employed more than 500 people who all stayed locally at the time.

There were minor issues with attempts to steal gelignite (this was the start of the Troubles after all, and one raid in 1972 was successful) but overall it was a fantastic success as a project.

Wicklow should be proud of Turlough Hill. Since 2004 it has been the Hydro Control Centre for the country’s entire hydro fleet (none of the other hydro stations are pumped-storage hence Turlough Hill’s uniqueness) and it stands as a model example of a pumped-storage facility. Next time you switch on your light when you come in from work (at probably the same time as thousands of others!) think of the facility in a corner of Wicklow that is making this possible!

Wicklow’s star beauty expert, the fragrant Anna Schulmeistrat, was, if you excuse the pun, waxing lyrical about love and life in the Sunday Independent last week.

The recently married Anna is ‘really busy’ now that she has three salons in Stillorgan, Co Dublin, Bray and Delgany but still finds time to have breakfast with her husband - and fellow born-again Christian - Jamie, followed by a quick read of the bible. “I love god and I believe that the Bible is the word of god,” Anna gushes. No sign of the problem faced by Princess Diana when she intoned “Well, there were three of us in this marriage, so it was a bit crowded.” The Captain sends his heartiest regards to Anna and Jamie and hopes they have years of wedded bliss ...

Small’s big plans

Where next for Greystones beauty LiAnn Small? She has already modelled for fashion powerhouse Burberry and now the Wicklow model is set to conquer the US. Not content with rubbing shoulders with some of the world’s biggest fashion stars, including model of the moment Cara Delevingne, the 19-year-old has jetted off to New York for meetings with some top agents in Manhattan, including Ford Models. The leggy teenager, whose mother is from Malaysia, is just back from the opening of Burberry’s new flagship store in Shanghai, where she lined out alongside A-lister Bradley Cooper’s other half Suki Waterhouse. She was also chosen to be the face of a limited collection for the luxury brand which counts Kim Kardashian, Harry Potter actress Emma Watson, Vogue editor Anna Wintour and Sex and the City’s Sarah Jessica Parker among its fans. As The Captain’s grandmother would say “I remember her when she had holes in her knickers ...”

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14 | WHAT’S HOT

with Michelle McGlynn info@wicklowvoice.ie

wicklowvoice.ie August 7 2014

FESTIVAL of the fortnight SEAFOOD FESTIVAL South Quay, Wicklow Town, Sunday, August 17 It’s Sammy the Seal’s 9th birthday and The Fishman, Alan Hegarty, is throwing him a party.

The Seafood Festival promises to be a great day and a draw for people outside the town. There will be seafood demonstrations throughout the day by award winning chef Keith Kenny and chefs from local restaurants. The restaurants will have stands along with the Wicklow Wine Shop, a craft beer stand and an artisan bakery.

Local bands The Shoos and Jazz Crumble will be performing. There will be a puppet show and face painting for the children and of course Sammy will be there. Adult €3, kids go free.

Profits will go to the Seal Sanctuary.

FUN IDEA of the fortnight BRAY SCHOOL OF DANCE Perfect Theatre Studios, Level 2, Bray Bowl, Quinsboro Road, Bray, 087 8369144 Whether you are looking to try something new, you have danced previously and are looking to brush up or if you are hoping to go further with your dancing, Bray School of Dance is the place for you. The highly qualified instructors believe that each student has ability and will shine in their own time.

The school offers a range of dance classes such as ballet, modern dance, tap and hip hop. They welcome beginners and run classes in all grades. They also offer some classes for children. All teachers have trained with and are examined by the Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing. Classes will recommence in September so be sure to book your place soon.

VOLUNTEER IDEA of the fortnight NATURE RESERVE VOLUNTEER DAY Brockagh Centre, Laragh, Sunday, August 10, 11am Would you like to get outdoor and enjoy some beautiful views while helping to carry out some environmental work at the Laragh Nature Reserve? If so, go along to the Native Woodland Trust’s volunteer day on August 10, from 11am to 1pm. They will be checking the trees that were planted earlier this year, fixing them and their tree guards.

Volunteers can see the results of their hard work as they see how the trees have grown. They will check the deer exclosure and perform any necessary maintenance. Please note that there is a steep walk to the site. For further details visit www.nativewoodlandtrust.ie, email rebecca. doyle@nativewoodlandtrust.ie or call 087 9619083.

TV SHOW of the fortnight SHARKNADO 2: THE SECOND ONE

SyFy, screening throughout August

Yes, the Sharknado has returned for “the second one”. Following the success of the absurd disaster film’s first outing, the world is braced for the shark-tornado’s second coming. The film is showing as part of SyFy’s aptly named Terribly Good film season.

OFFER of the fortnight DERMAGLO 51a Main Street, Bray, 01 2768858 DermaGlo Laser clinic and beauty salon boasts a team of medical specialists, beauty specialists, expert nail technicians and make up artists passionate about people, beauty and skincare. The clinic boasts a reception area, a nail bar and nine treatment rooms spaced out over two floors. DermaGlo keep up to date on the hottest make up trends and the latest skin treatments, ensuring that you will always look your best. They offer HD brows, 3 week Everlasting Manicures, Dermalogica facial treatments, professional St. Tropez tanning and much more. You can rejuvenate your skin with one of their many non surgical treatments. Mention the Wicklow Voice when booking to get 20% off any salon treatment.

This franchise truly is so bad that it’s good and people cannot get enough. Twitter was filled with people live-tweeting when it recently screened in the US. This time the freak weather system hits NYC and once again Fin (Ian Ziering) and April (Tara Reid) are the only ones who can stop it.

Conan O’Brien, Andy Dick, Judd Hirsch and Kelly Osbourne are among the multitude of cameos featured in this hilarious film.

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WHAT’S HOT| 15

August 7 2014 wicklowvoice.ie

MOVIE of the fortnight THE INBETWEENERS 2 Gaiety Cinema, Arklow The lads are Australia bound in this riotously funny sequel.

When we last saw the Rudge Park gang they were causing havoc in Crete. A year on and Will (Simon Bird), Jay (James Buckley), Neil (Blake Harrison) and Simon (Joe Thomas) have gone their separate ways. Jay is spending his gap year in Australia with his uncle. Neil has managed to get a job. Will and Simon are at different universities but life isn’t quite panning out as they had hoped. So when Jay emails them bragging about his party lifestyle as “the biggest DJ in Australia”, the lads waste no time in booking a wild Easter break Down Under. Make sure to soak up the fun while you can as the cast and filmmakers have confirmed that this will be the last appearance of the Inbetweeners lads.

HOROSCOPES with Siobhan Moore Whelan

ARIES-1,5,11,19,25,38 Mars is in your emotional orbit and something quite magical is happening to you these days.

Rediscover your sense of fun & feeling of romance.

FUNDRAISER of the fortnight THE LAKES 10K Blessington Lakes, Blessington, Saturday, September 6, 11am The Lakes 10k offers you the chance to take in the beautiful sights and scenery of the gorgeous Blessington Lakes while taking part in a timed 10k run. The event, hosted by the Lakeshore Striders, is in aid of LauraLynn Children’s Hospice. LauraLynn provides a vital service and is Ireland’s

only children’s hospice. They support the families of children with life limiting conditions with respite, home support and end of life care. LauraLynn also provide residential care for young adults with disabilities. The Lakes 10k is limited to 600 spots so be sure to register soon. For your tshirt and sponsorship card contact amanda@lauralynn.ie. To register see www.thelakes10k.ie.

SPORTING EVENT of the fortnight

GEMINI- 9,16,18,26,29,31 Planets move into the area of your chart of negotiations, bargain hunting and compromise.

You will have your cake and eat it.

CANCER-8,12,13,26,35,42 Things are going well and you are feeling pretty confident about your place in the world. A new opportunity presents itself.

LEO-1,5,11,19,25,38 Confidence rules this month Leo; You have some great opportunities to work on financial goals involving your career and your private life.

7-A-SIDE HOCKEY TOURNAMENT Loreto, Bray, Saturday, August 16, 12pm Bray Hockey Club are hosting a 7-a-side hockey tournament this August. The tournament is open to nonmembers so anyone can join in and you are encouraged to bring along family and friends. Any individuals who wish to take part should register as individuals and they will be allocated to a team. It is a friendly tournament but there will be a cup and plate awarded to the winning teams. Tournament fee is €10 per person or €80 for a team of ten. Participants will receive a Big Al’s burger and and there will be refreshments on sale throughout the day. To register contact Cian on 087 9534388 or at bray. hockey@gmail.com. Pictured is Hannah O’Connor with the Division 11/12 cup.

VIRGO-2,9,22,31,33,39 The planets are encouraging you to dance, sing, laugh, play and spend time with your loved ones.

LIBRA-10,18,20,22,36,38 Romantic, social, or business partners bring opportunities to socialize, work within teams, groups, committees, and with family.

GIG of the fortnight BIG SEPTEMBER Harbour Bar, Bray, Saturday, August 16 Fresh off their great performance at Bray Summerfest and the Indiependence Music & Arts Festival, Big September will be back in Bray, Saturday, August 16 to rock The Harbour Bar. Their debut album, Ballroom Addicts, was released recently and it is the

perfect soundtrack to your summer adventures. With a string of hits to their name, their gigs are always fantastic fun.

Be prepared to dance because you won’t be able to keep still once these local lads hit the stage. 2014 has been their year and it’s not over yet so make sure to catch them in this intimate venue while you can.

SCORPIO-8,12,13,26,35,42 Reward for your professional goals and all your hard work pays off. Well done.

SAGITTARIUS-1,12,20,30,34,37 Spend time broadening your horizons even if you don’t leave town. Avoid bureaucratic, political,cultural or academic arguments.

CAPRICORN-7,9,11,22,33,37 You are ready to travel, explore other cultures and belief systems, and to broaden your horizons.

Remain open-minded.

AQUARIUS-1,12,19,32,35,41 Romance; a small handful of planets moving through your partnerships sector will help you to focus on a special one-on-one relationship.

‘PULLQUOTE HERE– IN THE MAFIA, THOSE WHO GO AGAINST THE WISHES OF THE DONS CAN HAVE A SHORT LIFE’

PET IDEA of the fortnight BRAY DOG GROOMING OPEN DAY Kilmantain Park, Bray, Saturday, August 9, 11am

TAURUS-2,4,16,26,36,37 You have a strong yearning to break out of your routine and have some fun. Now is the time to make that happen.

Bray Dog Grooming are hosting a Doggie Day Care Open Day at their location on Kilmantain Park, Bray.

The event will be held on Saturday, August 9 from 11am until 3pm. Head along and see their newly refurbished daycare facility. You will also have the opportunity to meet their dedicated daycare and grooming staff. They will be available to answer any queries you might have. Of course, all dogs are welcome so bring your four-legged friend along.

There will be complimentary light refreshments and doggy gift bags on the day. Dogs are social animals and interaction with other dogs is important to their happiness. Go ahead, treat your pooch to a day of fun.

PISCES-1,7,10,16,26,39 You have opportunities to work towards achieving your financial and professional goals. A turn of events brings you a huge opportunity.

Live Psychic Angel-TarotMedium Siobhan Tel 1580997207- 18+ Bill payers permission-Calls cost €2.44 per minute; calls from other networks may vary. Calls are for entertainment purposes and may be recorded.

16 | PROPERTY

wicklowvoice.ie August 7 2014

ESRI: Wicklow is facing chronic housing shortage

By Cianan Brennan

COUNTY Wicklow could be facing a critical housing shortage in the coming years.

According to fresh research from the Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI) almost 60,000 houses need to be built in Dublin by the year 2021 to meet population demands.

Given the intrinsically linked nature of the Dublin and Wicklow housing markets a knock-on effect of the shortage is almost certain to be felt in Wicklow adding to the crisis already being seen here due to lack of supply.

Dublin is facing ‘significant housing shortages’ if the rate of construction is not ‘increased rapidly’ the ESRI report noted.

In the years leading up to 2021 an additional 180,000 households across the State will need somewhere to live.

The current oversupply of houses in ‘ghost estates’ will be able to accommodate about half

that number, however an average of 12,500 houses or apartments will still need to be built each year to deal with demand, predominantly in the Dublin area.

Recent investigations by the Wicklow Voice have seen the average price of property in the Garden County increase by 10% since the end of 2012 to €285,000.

All estate agents consulted in the course of our investigations agreed that lack of supply is the single most serious factor affecting the housing market in the county.

One estate agent commented: “the demand is there, if there were more houses available we would be selling them, we simply can’t keep up with the current appetite from house buyers.”

Given prices have remained relatively steady in the south of the county the vast majority of the price hikes are being seen in the commuter territory closer to

Getting ready for the burger eating competition at the Wicklow Regatta (Pic.Ceaneacht O Hoctun) the Dublin border.

As workers in the capital find themselves priced out of the market there Wicklow has become the most attractive settling

spot for first time buyers and those with young families who simply cannot afford to live in Dublin.

Last month a report in the

Wicklow Voice detailed how certain agents in the Bray area were increasing long-static house prices by up to €100,000 safe in the knowledge that as buyers become more desperate the outlandish prices are likely to be met.

The housing crisis at present is being felt most acutely in Dublin and its hinterlands such as Meath, Wicklow and Kildare, with the more rural areas of the country relatively unaffected.

Last week Independent TD for Wicklow Stephen Donnelly called on Minister for the Environment Alan Kelly and Minister for Housing Paudie Coffey to urgently review housing stock in North Wicklow and rent allowance caps in Wicklow in general.

Donnelly has also written to NAMA asking for an itinerary of domestic homes they hold in the county which could be used to combat the crisis, whilst calling on local councillors to rezone more land for housing.

Roundwood Kitchens - three generations of excellence Advertorial

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All units are made to order from the highest quality timbers and fittings and come fully assembled with a two year guarantee.

Roundwood Kitchens carry an extensive range of floor and wall tiles as well as beautiful laminate, semi-solid and solid wood floors, all of which can be fitted for you by their fully qualified professional fitters.

As well as their stunning kitchens and bedrooms they also offer a large selection of kitchen appliances and are agents for NEFF, Siemens, Fisher&Paykel, Nordmende, Gorenje and many more, all of which can be delivery and installed by fully qualified and insured staff. So why not visit their new showrooms in Kilcoole Industrial Estate today and see what Roundwood Kitchens can do for you….

August 7 2014 wicklowvoice.ie

HOMES| 17

18 | GREYSTONES PROFILE

By Michelle McGlynn GREYSTONES & DISTRICT CREDIT UNION Credit Union House, Church Road, Greystones, 01 2877165 GREYSTONES Credit Union is committed to providing a broad range of innovative financial products supported by the excellent service of a dedicated and well trained staff. They provide a range of services to help you to manage your finances. They offer regular saving accounts as well as savings stamps accounts as a great way to save for regular expenses.

The Credit Union offers loans at very competitive rates. If you need some help managing your finances then Greystones Credit Union provides the Money, Advice and Budgeting Service (MABS).

THE BURNABY Church Road, Greystones, 01 2874015 The Burnaby has been at the

centre of community life in Greystones since 1881.

It has been run by the Byrne family for nearly 60 years.

It has always been renowned for its fine food and fantastic atmosphere.

The venue, which underwent a substantial refurbishment last year, has always been a Mecca for sports fans.

The numerous screens cater for all tastes whether it be rugby, gaelic games, soccer or golf. If you prefer a cosier quieter atmosphere the new Wine Bar and Charcuterie can provide the perfect place for any occasion. Food is served all day until 9pm and 9.30 at weekends.

THE BEACH HOUSE The Harbour, Greystones, 01 2874623 The Beach House has everything you could want. The Lounge provides the best food and drink seven days a week.

wicklowvoice.ie August 7 2014

GET ON DOWN TO

Dann’s Bar is a traditional Irish bar while the Upstairs is Wicklow’s most stylish late night bar and venue. There’s no shortage of things to do with a free pub quiz and bingo every Wednesday and live music every Saturday. Meanwhile, Dann’s hosts trad sessions every Tuesday, Gerry Doyle and Friends perform every Thursday and there is live music every Friday.

Keep an eye on the specials board to see who will be performing.

ETERNITY JEWELLERY Meridian Point Shopping Centre, Greystones, 01 2557640 Eternity Jewellery is a leading manufacturer and retailers of bespoke jewellery in Ireland.

They are experts in custom

made engagement rings, wedding bands and eternity rings. They have an in-house workshop which has been responsible for creating jewellery pieces that draw considerable admiration.

The workshop also does all their repair and maintenance work, ensuring that your jewellery stays looking as good as when you first purchased it.

Friendliness remains at the core of Eternity Jewellery and they pride themselves on their customer service.

If you are looking for a unique gift or want to treat yourself, then look no further than Eternity Jewellery.

CHAKRA BY JAIPUR Meridian Point Shopping Centre, Greystones, 01 2017222

CHAKRA is the sister to the successful Jaipur restaurants in Dublin. The warm toned decor gives the place a welcoming atmosphere.

The delectable food maintains Chakra’s modern take on traditional Indian food.

The colourful and wellseasoned dishes are a treat for the eyes as well as the palate.

The service is attentive without being obtrusive.

Chakra favourites like the Wicklow lamb shank & the Tandoori chicken are perfect examples of authentic Indian dishes prepared by sourcing the local produce.

Also there are plenty of vegetarian options available.

The wine list has been carefully selected to compliment Indian food. It is well worth leaving room for desserts too.

ROYAL PARK Church Road, Greystones, 01 2874041

ROYAL Park offers traditional Chinese meals as well as a small selection of Thai and European dishes.

Because of China’s diverse geographical regions, each has developed its own particular and Royal Park has chosen to feature the best of these extensive varieties on their menu.

A meal at Royal Park is like taking a culinary tour of the main regions of China.

Dishes strike a balance of ingredients, colour, flavour, texture and cooking styles.

The staff at Royal Park pride themselves on the quality of the food, following traditional recipes and using only the best ingredients.

August 7 2014 wicklowvoice.ie

GREYSTONES PROFILE/OUTDOOR LIFE | 19

GREYSTONES

OUR GUIDE TO SHOPPING, EATING AND DRINKING IN THE SEASIDE TOWN

COLLECT YOUR FREE LAVENDER FLOWER HORKANS GARDEN AND LIFESTYLE CENTRE WANTS TO OFFER YOU THE CHANCE TO BRIGHTEN UP YOUR GARDEN FOR FREE

Freda Booth and Niamh Booth (11) out and about in Greystones.

Lavender is a welcomed addition to any garden, with its beautiful flowers and wonderful aroma.

Lavender is ideal for flower borders, herb gardens or simply planted in patio pots for a reliable splash of colour and scent.

These easy to grow plants will flower continually throughout the summer period and will grow happily in full sun.

We recommend you plant Lavender in groups to form a large collective of colour and scent.

Which creates a more dramatic and eyecatching display When planting Lavenders use good quality compost, for example Growise multipurpose compost with added John Innes is excellent for pots and containers. Lavender plants like well drained soil.

Keep well watered during the first few months.

To collect your Free Lavender Plant cut out the voucher below and bring it into one of our

stores listed. Terms & conditions apply.

I want to know more, where should I go?

Keep you garden beautiful with the help of Horkans Garden & Lifestyle Centre.

To stay up to date follow Horkans Blog on: www. horkans. ie/blog Horkan Garden & Lifestyle Stores locations nearest to you: Bray Rd, Cornelscourt, Co. Dublin 01 2891285 Glen of the Downs, Co. Wicklow 01 2872078 You can also tune into Paraic Horkan’s Gardening show on East Coast FM fortnightly Thursday from 9-10am.

20 | FASHION

wicklowvoice.ie August 7 2014

my favourite things With the last month of the summer holidays upon us it’s definitely time to make the most of the outdoors and all spells of good weather.

Wicklow has so many fabulous places to enjoy it’s worth getting out with a tasty picnic but have you got the right gear? We take a look at some key invest picks along with reminding you what’s on our doorstep... Glendalough, Powerscourt Waterfall, Brittas Beach, Avondale House & Gardens or Killruddery Estate to name a few destinations.

FAMILY OUTING

If you’ve a family to pack for then this picnic hamper could be a perfect investment. This deep picnic basket from Avoca is designed for four and even has an all important zipped chill department, perfect for sunny days.

With a buff antique wash finish willow and blue faux leather straps, it really should last for years. €126.95

ROMANTIC DAY

If you are more of an active or romantic couple then you need a picnic backpack, that’s easy to carry, even with a bottle of wine, for your

day out. At $123.30, from www.picnicfun. com, this tweed/ canvas backpack has a lifetime guarantee.Throw downYou can’t have a picnic without bringing a blanket, can you? There are lots of water-proof, lined blankets available for damp ground (try Halfords.ie) but a classic lambswool blanket from Avoca Woollen Mills immediately comes to mind. They have so many colour combinations, this one is €59.95, larger sizes are €89.95.

WHAT’S HOT

with Audrey Vance wicklowvoice@gmail.com

from lots of toy shops priced around €18.99.

HOUSE OF CARDS

For those who prefer a quieter game, why not simply bring a pack of cards?

Pick up a pack from the nearest book/toy shop or for the more serious players among you, why not invest in a luxury designer pack? This Ultimate Deck is a one of a kind, showcasing original and beautiful works of art on all 54 cards. Taking over a year to make, www.artofplay.com, claim it is the most expensive deck ever produced! At €25.00 it would be a lovely gift.

TWISTED FUN

Whether it’s a family outing or a fun couple, this Hasbro game is a blast from the past and sure to make everyone laugh. Twist the dial and get moving.

Twister is available

& durability. It weighs only 250grams so its perfect for around the house or as a handy traveling companion.€19.99 www.cozydock. com

QUIET READ

Looking to relax and have a little read?

Although categorised as ‘young adult fiction’ this might just be your cuppa tea. ‘The Fault in our Stars’ is the sixth novel by author John Green published in 2012 but it’s back in the charts due to the recent movie release.

“I fell in love the way you fall asleep: slowly, then all at once.” Highly acclaimed and debuting on the New York Times Bestseller list at number one for seven weeks running, it was also their book editor’s pick. Worth a look... €7.49 Easons

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Audrey Vance, fashion illustrator and owner of Wedding Dress Ink has her design studio in Co. Wicklow. www. weddingdressink. com

Women in Wicklow Name?

Danielle Martin, Leaving Cert Student 2014 from Dalkey’s Loreto Abbey

Favourite hobbies?

I could read magazines all day. Which I do! I also love reading fashion blogs, scrapbooking and making cards. I love finding inspiring pictures and quotes on Pinterest or WeHeartit. I am a big fan of Instagram.

From?

Born in Dublin, Raised in Wicklow.

What was it like to sit the leaving cert in 2014?

I feel the leaving cert isn’t everybody’s cup of tea but it gives students something to focus and work hard for. I have definitely learned a lot from it.

What are you doing for the summer holidays?

I went away with my friends for a week to celebrate the end of exams, a week full of fiesta! At the moment I am au-pairing in Badajoz in Spain for a month, like last year, embracing the culture and improving my language skills.

Do you have any kind of job?

I babysit for my neighbour and do a little modelling.

What are your third level plans?

It took me a while to decide

on my path for the future but I have decided I am going to prepare an art portfolio in Bray Institute of Further Education. Hoping to follow onto NCAD. I am so excited and looking forward to the experience. In school you do so many subjects and I never had time to just focus on creative art.

What kind of career are you aiming at?

I can honestly say I have no idea where I am going to end up. It will definitely be in the creative side of the world, I have a strong love for fashion and travel. I hope to experience lots of different cultures.

Favourite read?

The beginning of each month is an exciting time for me because the monthly magazines are released ! I buy Vogue every month and when my wallet will allow...

Elle and Harpers Bazaar.

My favourite book is “Dear John” by Nicholas Sparks.

Go-to fashion label?

ZARA always have chic fashionable clothes!

Must have beauty product? Wet n Wild Mega Clear Mascara . It’s perfect for accentuating your lashes, it’s a clear formula that lifts and separates for a defined look!

It is also great at taming and setting your brows in place.

Interview by Audrey Vance.

Picture by Patrick O’Leary

FOOD| 21

August 7 2014 wicklowvoice.ie

recipes WATERMELON, ORANGE AND BARREL-AGED FETA SALAD

INGREDIENTS

• 1 small watermelon, diced and remove seeds • 3 oranges segmented • 100g toasted pine nuts • 2 bunches of wild rocket • 300g barrel-aged feta cheese, crumbled

DRESSING

• 100ml extra virgin olive oil • 35ml aged balsamic vinegar • Maldon sea salt to taste

PREPARATION

1: Arrange diced watermelon and segmented orange pieces on a plate.

2: Crumble the feta cheese over.

3: Scatter with toasted pine nuts and top with wild rocket leaves.

4: Dress the entire salad with balsamic vinaigrette.

Serves approx. 6

Peter Byrne

Head Chef at Sika Restaurant in The Powerscourt Hotel wine choice BOUGRIER VDF HAUTS LIEUX ROSE €12.99 This delightfully light and fresh rose hails from the Loire region of Touraine, renowned for its refreshing, mouthwatering wines. Light strawberry fruit on the palate is balanced by a crisp finish an d a distinct mineral edge. Available from O’Brien’s where they are having a buy one get one half price on all rose wines.

TOP TAPAS VIVA LA VIEW restaurant review SITTING on the balcony of the new tapas restaurant upstairs in Bray’s Porterhouse on a recent sunny, summer’s evening, I couldn’t help but think that there is no eatery on the East Coast with a better view.

To the north, Killiney and Howth, at either ends of Dublin Bay, fill the vista, to the east, the Irish Sea disappears far off into the horizon, while to the south, Bray Head towers majestically over the seafront.

For those not familiar with the concept of tapas, this Spanish dining style sees diners ordering several small dishes rather than a larger main course.

The Port House first opened first in 2006 in a cave-like restaurant on South William Street, followed by Temple Bar, Dundrum and London.

The boss and I have been fans since the start so when word reached our ears that another was on the way to Bray, we couldn’t wait. So with kids in tow, we arrived on a Thursday soon after it had just opened.

Nearly all of the tapas are in the €5-€7 range, with nothing over €10, so you have a chance to order quite a few without breaking the bank.

The Port House balcony with Bray Head in the background We really went for it and ended up ordering around 10 - probably more than sensible people would have ordered, but our lads can eat their body weight in food sometimes.

All the old fantastic favourites are there such as deep fried prawns in batter with alioli (amazing), calamari, paella, chicken wings and my personal favourite, the lamb stew, while the kids discovered some new ones of their own, namely the “McManchego” pork burger followed by meatballs in rich tomato sauce.

There’s a really good wine list and it’s fairly priced, offering plenty of Spanish wines, which will help to loosen lips as the

meal progresses over the course of a few hours.

The Port House interiors always follow the same style of exposed stone and bare brick walls atmospherically lit with candles and upstairs in The Porterhouse (which is also a shareholder in the The Port House group) is perfect for this latest incarnation.

Service is eager and enthusiastic with the customary ‘Gintonic’ is served in a balloon glass in the Spanish manner.

This is a great addition to the Wicklow dining scene - and one not to be missed.

The Port House, Strand Road, Bray, Co Wicklow.

GO’N

22 | SERVICES

wicklowvoice.ie August 7 2014

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ADVERTISING| 23

Weekly Listenership/Reach Co. Wicklow April '13 to March '14 (All Adults)

40% 35% 30% 25% 20% 15% 10% 5% 0%

*Source: ipsos MRBI/JNLR 2014 - 1 Published 1st May 2014

24 | NEWS

wicklowvoice.ie August 7 2014

LEO launch €2,500 web scheme

By Cianan Brennan

A NEW funding programme designed to boost smaller companies online presence is now open for applications through the Wicklow Local Enterprise Office (LEO).

The programme, called the Online Trading Voucher, is intended to help small Irish businesses not overly familiar with digital sales to enhance their online presence with goals of increased sales, exports, and, ultimately, jobs.

The voucher will be available to a maximum value of €2,500 or 50% of the total cost of developing and improving their online presence.

The closing date for the first round of applications is Friday, August 15.

The vouchers are being tar-

geted at businesses with a limited online trading presence, that have been in business for at least one year, have less than 10 employees and a turnover of less than €2m.

Companies must be registered in County Wicklow.

The vouchers can help with developing or upgrading e-commerce websites, through online payments or booking systems for example, as well as many other uses.

Speaking at a recent seminar regarding the vouchers Noel Davidson, director of QED Training said: “The shift away from physical retail towards digital retail is happening faster than many observers expected and Ireland can be a leader in this area.”

Ireland currently has a €4 billion online sales market and

the LEO is urging Irish businesses to take advantage of opportunity.

The digital trade in Ireland is growing at a rate of 16% per annum and it is believed 70% of online sales made in Ireland are transacted in overseas markets.

To apply for the funding applicants must attend one of the information seminars being organised by their respective LEO to learn how to get the best value and use from the voucher.

Michael Hanley of Local Enterprise Ireland can not disguise his enthusiasm for the venture.

“With the digital economy in Ireland set to grow to €21 billion by 217, firms can no longer ignore the internet,” he said.

“Irish consumer spend about €4 billion online each year, but only a quarter of that goes to

Irish businesses and only 23% of our small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are trading online.”

“International research shows that SMEs who adopt to online trading grow twice as fast and export twice as much as their offline competitors,” Mr Hanley added.

To apply for a voucher for your business go to www. localenterprise.ie/Wicklow/ Financial-Supports/OnlineTrading-Vouchers/ for more information For anyone seeking more information on digital trading, the Wicklow Voice now offer a number of digital packages for all budgets. Email info@ wicklowvoice.ie for more details. See our ad on page 25.

Winner all right!

Charlie Hadden, Fitzpatrick Motors Bray, Bray Credit Union July car draw winner Catherine Gray and Bernie Robinson, Manager Bray Credit Union. Picture by Charlie Sharkey

NEWS| 25

August 7 2014 wicklowvoice.ie

Wicklow entrepreneur releases new business app

WICKLOW based accountancy and management consultant, Brenda Jordan, and her team have successfully launched CloudKPI, a dynamic mobile software product that gives smaller businesses affordable

access to the key information needed to monitor and analyse how business is performing.

CloudKPI links with Sage 50 accounts in minutes to deliver key performance indicators in a way that

is clear and actionable debtors, creditors, cashflow and sales are just some of the features available.

For more information, visit www.cloudkpisolutions.com or contact Brenda at 01 276 5368.

26 | SPORT sport in brief Endurance challenge comes to Wicklow AMATEUR Athletes James Colbert and Sean Buckley plan to cycle through every county in Ireland, swim 120km of the River Shannon and run in four consecutive marathons, 2068km in just 22 days from August 3-24.

Wicklow plays a big part in Endurance Challenge as the tour of Leinster (one of four cycling challenges covering in excess of 1780km) begins in Dublin City on Thursday, August 14 and travels 170km to Kilkenny City via Wicklow.

You can sponsor James and Sean through the website www.endurance challenge.ie, on their justgiving.com pages or you can join them in one of the four marathons taking place in each province, in one or more of the four regional cycle tours, or swim part of the River Shannon.

Tinahely challenges suicide

THE Tinahely Challenge takes place on Saturday, September 13. There is no registration fee for this event, but on the day, each participant must have raised a minimum of €40 sponsorship for Pieta House.

Participants will battle the

wicklowvoice.ie August 7 2014 rugged hills around Tinahely in this exhilarating 32km challenge while taking on the struggle against suicide and self harm.

Thomas Pickford takes Gold

Gate procedures at Carlisle

NEW procedures have been introduced at the Carlisle Grounds. All media should now enter through turnstile no. 3. The Seymour Road gate that was previously used is now designated for emergency access only.

By Cianan Brennan

Emmets success BRAY Emmets senior hurlers were victorious in their championship match against Avondale. They led by nine points at half time and continued to dominate in the second half. The final score was Bray Emmets 4-13 Avondale 2-06.

Injury setbacks AS they head into the final series of games in the Premier Division, Manager Alan Mathews has to face more injury headaches.

Dave Webster is a definite absentee with a foot injury while Shane O’Neill has a back problem.

Jake Kelly has a groin problem, Shane O’Connor has a hamstring injury and Adam Hanlon picked up a knee injury.

Callum attempts 33 marathons in just 40 days

Thomas Pickford of Bray Wheelers who won the Youth under 12 track sprint championships in Sundrive emerging victorious in fine style against tough competition from Northern Ireland.

FOR most Irish potatoes of the couch variety the thought of running a single marathon would be enough to bring them out in cold sweats and heart palpitations.

Bray man Callum Jacobs (23) is running the equivalent of 33 marathons in 40 days, all in the name of charity!

At time of publication Callum was just over a quarter of the way through his ambitious trek having taken in Brittas Bay, Monamolin, Carrick-on-Suir, Dungarvan, and Cork City.

The going has been tough, particularly on the Carrickon-Suir section of the trip (day four) where Jacobs found himself hitting a wall and feeling “both mentally and physically defeated”.

Jacobs had never run a marathon at the start of the year, his first being in April.

“Arrogant, stupid and insane would come to mind if someone were to tell me that they were planning the same,

and to some extent I’d be right,” he says.

His epic journey, which began at the end of July, will take him from his native Wicklow right around the coast of Ireland via Cork, Sligo, Donegal, Antrim and Dublin before finishing where he started in Bray on September 3rd.

It has not all been plain sailing for Jacobs, who spent four weeks prior to the trek battling ITB Syndrome, an inflammation of the muscle band connecting the knee and thigh caused by chronic over-use.

In spite of this the Marathon Man was in high spirits on Twitter following the first week of running.

“Bring on week 2, starting with a 45km run from Cork City to Millstreet!” he said.

Jacobs is running for Pieta House, a centre for the prevention of self-harm and suicide, established in Dublin in 2006. You can support and follow Callum’s journey at www.40daysonfoot.com.

NEWS| 27

August 7 2014 wicklowvoice.ie

insideback

with Brian Quigley

Battling draw lifts Gulls Soccer

THE Bray Wanderers summer festival of soccer continued (after the great result against the Manchester United XI on July 20) with a hard-earned draw against a Queen’s Park Rangers XI on July 26. Given that Wanderers had an away league fixture in Dundalk the next day, they fielded a team made up of half Under 19’s and half first teamers. QPR’s line-up was mostly from their Under 21 ranks. The game was scoreless at half time but Ryan Coombes put the Seagulls ahead just after the restart. Bray withstood some fierce QPR pressure only to succumb to an Aaron Mitchell strike two minutes from time.

Unfortunately Wanderers went down 5-1 to Dundalk in Oriel Park the day after the QPR friendly, follwed by 1-1 draw with bottom team Athlone Town last Friday.

That result left Bray in third

last position in the table and with a lot of work to do over the last third of the season to avoid relegation.

The fixture list for the Under 19 2014/2015 league has been published. In a change to the format, there will be two divisions this season. Bray Wanderers U19 will play in the U19 Southern Elite Division with Athlone Town, Cobh Ramblers, Cork City, Limerick, Mervue United, Salthill Devon, Shamrock Rovers, UCD, Wexford Youths and Waterford United. The top four will go through to the playoffs for the National U19 Championships.

Bray’s first home game will be on September 7 versus Wexford Youths U19.

Rugby The fixtures for the 2014/2015 All Ireland Ulster Bank Rugby League were released last week, and Greystones RFC kick off

their Division 2B campaign with an away tie at Shamrock Lodge against Boyne on Saturday September 20. The following Friday [September 26] sees ‘Stones open their home account when they entertain Wanderers under the lights at Dr Hickey Park.

ParkRun Several new ParkRun events have started up in Ireland this year, as reported previously in this column.

With 14 events in the Republic, we have now overtaken Poland as the fourth largest ParkRun country (by number of events) in the world, behind UK, Australia and South Africa. We now have more events than USA, Russia, New Zealand, Denmark as well as Poland. Still no ParkRun event in Wicklow though, although lots of Wicklow athletes are taking part at the various other ParkRun venues.

Wicklow Rose Gillian Burke got on her bike to officially launch the Jack & Jill Foundation’s Kilkenny Cycle. The 100k Kilkenny Cycle begins in Blessington and finishes in Kilkenny. The cycle will take place on September 13 and you can register at www.jackandjill.ie.

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