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wicklowvoice.ie February 12 2015
ATTENTION ALL INTERNET USERS! Does your home, school, business or community building need better broadband? This Friday is the deadline for submissions to the National Broadband Plan.If you need better broadband, put yourself on the map by following these easy steps: 1. Go to www.broadband.gov.ie 2. Enter your location on the map and see if you're in a blue or a yellow area 3. Click 'Contact Us' and fill in the form on that page 4. If you're in a blue area, state that you do not have high speed broadband 5. If you're in a yellow area, say what local priority you have for high speed broadband If you’re having any problems please contact my office. Tel: 01 2017300 Email: stephen.donnelly@oir.ie
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Ferris faces Labour exile for voting no By Michelle McGlynn
Anne Ferris faces being expelled from the Labour parliamentary party after she voted against the Government on the Fatal Foetal Abnormality Private Members’ Bill. Ferris was the only Labour TD to vote against the Government and support the bill which was proposed by independent socialist TD Clare Daly and will now be stripped of the party whip. The bill was rejected by 104 votes to 20 and writing exclusively in this week’s Wicklow Voice (see page 8), Ferris said she voted no “to give a voice to minorities”. The expulsion of Ferris from the party’s parliamentary ranks means that Wicklow could, in effect, have three sitting independents contesting the next election, although it is thought likely that Ferris will have the whip restored by then. Speaking after the vote, Ferris stood by her decision.
Sabrina Forsyth (back row) with Daragh Grogan (10), Isabella Duggan (8), Max Duggan (10) and Beau Duggan (5) (front row) at the launch of The Martello (Bray) RBS Six Nations scratch card competition. Pic: Joe Keogh » Lots more pictures from around the county inside
“I feel I had to make a hard decision. I have never made any secret of my views on this issue. It is one that is very, very close to my heart. I have worked tirelessly for women in this country and I will continue to do so whether as an Independent or a Labour TD,” she stated. Ferris has called the repercussions for her choice a “harsh measure” as over 80% of people in Ireland support her view. When coming to her decision on this controversial issue, Ferris said she thought of her three daughters and what she would want for them if they found themselves in such heartbreaking circumstances. “This is not about abortion on demand,” she clarified. It is the second time in recent weeks that Ferris has refused to support her Government - last month she rejected draft Terms of Reference for the Mother and Baby Home Inquiry. Why I voted no - Anne Ferris, Page 8
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4 | NEWS
wicklowvoice.ie February 12 2015
news in brief LoveWicklow
Bray to LA as Hozier rocks Grammys
LoveWicklow is a new arts initiative which invites members of the public to express what it is they love about any aspect of Co Wicklow through visual arts, photography, song or writing. It will be launched in the Parochial Hall, Wicklow Town on February 14 from 3pm and will culminate in an exhibition that will coincide with Wicklow Arts Festival.
Bray folk night Head to Mermaid Arts Centre, Bray on February 20 from 8pm for a night of folk featuring superb acts such as Ye Vagabonds, Dylan Walshe and Conor Linnie. The gig, organised by local musician Gavin McCabe, will be a partly standing, cabaretstyle gig. Tickets are €12 or €10 concession.
Outreach Wicklow If you have some time on your hands and would like to give back to the community then drop in and meet WicklowVolunteer Centre to discuss some options. They will be at the Greystones Library from 10am until 1pm on February 24.
Hozier onstage with Annie Lennox at the Grammys By Michelle McGlynn He may have lost out on the Song of the Year award at the Grammys recently but his performance on the night with Annie Lennox stole the show. At the star-studded ceremony featuring performances by Kanye West, Beyonce and Beck, it was the Bray star’s showstopping duet that many singled out as being the highlight of the night. Celebs like Ed Sheeran and
American Idol star Kelly Clarkson took to social media to praise him. “Hozier and Annie Lennox just won the Grammys... that just happened!” tweeted Clarkson. She wasn’t the only woman to sit up and take notice of the Take Me to Church singer. Kelly Osbourne got a selfie with her self-confessed “celebrity crush” and admitted to acting like a “huge dork” when she met him backstage.
The rumour-mill went into overdrive as people reported seeing Hozier and Taylor Swift flirting in the wee hours of the morning at Sam Smith’s after party. However, this isn’t the first time the pair have spent time together and reps insists that they are just friends. Swift uploaded a video of herself dancing while at a Hozier gig back in October while he told Billboard that she is a “very impressive human being”.
news in brief Meditation retreat Luisne centre for spirituality will be holding their monthly meditation half day retreat on March 7, from 10.30am. To book your place call, 01 2010001 or see www. centreofspirituality.com for more.
Potter screening Greystones Film Club are hosting a special kids night screening of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban on February 15, upstairs at the Happy Pear at 7pm. Admission is €2 and includes tea/coffee/treat. To book call 087 2848684 or email sirpaulbyrne@gmail.com.
Adult learners week
FEBRUARY LIVE LOUNGE Thur 12: Dublin City Rounders Blues Fri 13: The Dodgy Few Ska / Reggae Sat 14: East Coast Jazz Band Dixieland Sun 15: The Song Room Presents Various Emerging Artists
Thur 19: Toasted Special Harbour House Band Fri 20: Parchman Farm Blues Sat 21: The Rockets 50s Rock’n’Roll Sun 22: Carron Acoustic / Vocal PLUS Bray Comedy mini Fest : 18-22 Feb
f: /theharbourbarbray
t:@theharbour_bar
As part of Aontas Adult Learners Week 2015 there will be an open evening held in the Wicklow Further Education and Training Centre, on the Murrough on February 23 from 6.30pm until 8.30pm. There will be an opportunity to try free taster activities, meet with Adult Guidance and Youthreach Advocacy staff and view what a number of local groups have to offer. Enquiries to 0404 64023.
Dog dirt group claims doo-doo is a no-no By Michelle McGlynn
Are you tired of having your walk spoiled by unsightly and unsanitary dog dirt on the paths and on our beaches? Well then a new campaign organised by Kilcoole woman Maeve McGuckian might be of interest to you. The Campaign Against Dog Dirt aims to put a stop to irresponsible dogwalkers who do not pick up after their dogs. Under Section 22 of the Litter Pollution Act 1997 makes it an offence for the person in charge of a dog not to clean up when their dog fouls in a public place. This is a widespread problem throughout the county - and nationwide - and something that has bothered Maeve for some time. Recently, after being challenged by her sister, Maeve decided to stop complaining about the issue and take action instead. She has launched the campaign in the hopes that increased awareness and public peer pressure will make people think twice before walking away from their dog’s little deposits. “I would like to promote a positive campaign that leads to a zero tolerance attitude for such behaviour,” Maeve told the Wicklow Voice. “It’s evident that the signs and the bins around the place are not getting the message across
to “Citizen watch and public awareness are the best ways to enforce it. “We need to make it embarrassing not to pick up after your dog,” she explained. Although the campaign is still in its infancy it has already received great support from the community and councillors Jennifer Whitmore and Nicola Lawless have pledged their support. Another face that Maeve is hoping will get onboard is none other than Dustin the Turkey. “I just think that he is such a well-known face and the children love him. If he did a short jingle or something it would really boost awareness,” said Maeve, although they haven’t discussed plans yet. The Campaign Against Dog Dirt are planning to get involved in the Greystones St Patrick’s Day parade and an awareness day is also in the works. Aside from being insightly and disgusting, there are serious health risks posed from leaving dog dirt around. “If a dog has not been wormed regularly then their waste can carry toxocara eggs. “If it is left to sit for two or three weeks then the worm eggs incubate until they become infectious to humans,” warns local vet, Pete Wedderburn. If you want to lend your support you can find the Campaign Against Dog Dirt on Facebook.
Junction to be made safe By Michelle McGlynn Wicklow County Council have agreed to carry out works on the junction between Adelaide Road and Florence Road in Bray. The works to be carried out include improved signage, lighting and road markings and the installation of a speed table.
A number of serious road traffic accidents have taken place at the junction with the most recent having occurred on the night of February 7. This incident was a two-car crash and resulted in one man being taken to hospital with his injuries. Cllr John Brady has welcomed the commitment by the Council.
NEWS |5
February 12 2015 wicklowvoice.ie
wicklow people in pictures
Sharing is definitely caring! Ciara Hallam and Deborah O Gorman from Arklow decide the best way to share the muffin is just bite into it! (pic Yvette O Beirne)
Pictured at the annual SPAR 5 Star Awards in Killashee House Hotel, Kildare were Keith Crawford, BWG Foods and Monika Domarkiene SPAR Express Enniskerry, Co Wicklow. Photo Peter Houlihan / Fennell Photography
John Fitzsimons enjoys a dance on his last night as owner of the Strand Hotel on Bray Seafront
PJ Dunne (9), Phillip Dunne and Daniel Dunne (7) out and about in Wicklow Town
The National Store of the Year Finalist Award 2015 was presented to Mark and Audrey Power from Power’s Centra, Rathnew, Co. Wicklow by Martin Kelleher, Centra Managing Director, Ian Allen, Centra Sales Director and Robert Finnegan, CEO Three (sponsor of awards).
Shannon (9) and Patrick Conlon enjoy a stroll on Bray Seafront
Ronan (9), Ăšna (5), John (11), Mary (7) McElhinney out and about in Mount Usher
6| NEWS
wicklowvoice.ie February 12 2015
news in brief Indoor craft market Wicklow indoor craft and farmer’s market will open again at South Quay, Wicklow Town on February 14 from 12pm-4pm. Now taking bookings for stalls on February 21 and 28, email wicklowmarket@gmail. com or 089 4270447.
Radharc films Three films by Radharc Film Unit will be screened at the meeting of Bray Cualann Historical Society on February 19 at 8pm. All are welcome to attend the meeting at Bray Chamber of Commerce House, Quinsboro Road. Admission is €4.
Joyce performance
Lucas Browne (8) and Samantha Browne (5) at the announcement that almost 31,000 meals of surplus food from Tesco stores in Wicklow have been donated to local homeless and elderly charities in the county through its FoodCloud partnership since last July.
A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man will be performed by The New Theatre at Mermaid Arts Centre on February 21. This stage adaptation of James Joyce’s first novel is directed by Jimmy Fay. This classic tale follows Stephen Dedalus during his formative years. Tickets are €16 or €14 concession and can be booked by phoning 01 2724030 or see mermaidartscentre.ie
Move over lamb, Wicklow insects now on the menu By Michelle McGlynn
The big food trend for 2015 that you probably weren’t expecting - insects. Yes, it seems that the demand for insects and food products containing insects is growing and Blessington farmer, Tara Elliott is at the forefront of the movement in Ireland. Tara began farming insects as part of her MSc thesis methodology but soon realised that there was a demand for edible insects. “There are 1,900 species of edible insects but I am just concentrating on a few such as crickets,” Tara told the Wicklow Voice. The idea of munching on creepy crawlies may not sound appealing but Tara instists that there are health benefits. “What you can get from eating insects depends on the species,
where they are in their lifecycle and other factors “Insects are high in protein, low in fat and about 20 times more efficient than beef at producing body mass from feed,” she explained. Consumption of insects is normal practice in many countries and Tara believes that once people have the oppotunity to taste them, their initial response of disgust at the idea of eating them will be reversed. She intends to produce cricket flour and mealworm flour which can be used in baking to boost protein content and add vitamins, minerals and Omega 3 fats. There are a wide range of recipes that you can create using Tara’s insect products. She has been baking up a storm in her own kitchen, creating insect cookies, pancakes muffins, buns, breads, candy and snacks.
Legislation currently prohibits the sale of cricket flour on the Irish market but this could potentially change as other countries allow the marketing and sale of insects for human consumption. In fact, the UN’s Food and Agriculture Organisation has been encouraging people to consider insects as a nutritious and cheap food source. “Since all live insects must be imported from abroad - mainly the UK and mainland Europe - I am also rearing insects to provide for the live insect food demand that already exists within Ireland for food for reptiles, amphibians, wild birds and fish,” she explained. The business began with 1,000 beetles in a hot press and has grown to a 20,000 square foot unit in Blessington. “We are already looking for a bigger premises again.”
February 12 2015 wicklowvoice.ie
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08 | OPINION
opinion&comment
I voted no to give a voice to minorities
T
hink about how you might feel if you were told that your surname wasn’t really your surname. I’m not just talking about people like me who lost the right to their original surname through adoption and took on another legal surname in an adopted family. Imagine if somebody given responsibility by the State to care for a baby just swapped that child’s surname for their own. Former residents of Westbank Home in Greystones speak of their distress on discovering that the surnames they understood to be theirs during childhood were not theirs at all. The late Miss Mathers, who ran the institution for several decades has been accused of identity theft by former residents to whom she gave the name ‘Mathers’ in place of their real names. This may only have been the tip of the iceberg for the children of Westbank. Some former residents speak of their pain at finding out much later in life that they had siblings in the same institution at the same time. Others speak of abusive family situations they were fostered into or of illegal adoptions abroad. As of yet, there has been no official forum to hear and investigate these complaints of abuse of a minority group, the former residents of a small, non-Catholic, institution. When the draft Terms of Reference for the Mother and Baby Home Inquiry was finally published in January 2015, it was a bitter blow to thousands, including residents of Westbank, to realise that the Inquiry’s confidential committee would hear the only the testimony of former residents and employees of 14 named institutions. Evidence of deserted married women and their children born in any of these homes would not be heard. As a result of my lobbying an amendment to the Terms of Reference added married women and their children to the inquiry. In his final speech on the matter the Minister confirmed that the Inquiry would hear what is now accepted to be very relevant testimony from former residents of other institutions. Withdrawing support from the government was a step I didn’t take lightly. But insofar as my behaviour had real effect for a sizable minority of people, it was worth it. However, I certainly didn’t expect to be challenging the government again within just a matter of weeks. Last Friday the Dail debated an opposition Bill aimed at introducing very limited access to terminations where a foetus has some rare and terrible defect diagnosed to result in death before or during birth. Back in 2012, a letter signed by me and
another 21 of my party parliamentary colleagues including Law Professor and Senator Ivana Bacik, set out the reasons why in such limited circumstances abortion in Ireland was constitutional. The legal argument from 2012 remains relevant and last week, Senator Bacik resubmitted the same letter to the current Minister for Health. None of the original signatories withdrew their name. It is this same legal interpretation that Deputy Clare Daly claims to have followed when preparing her Bill. There may well be a question mark over how accurately Deputy Daly interpreted the legal case made in that 2012 Labour Party letter. However that shouldn’t matter at this early stage in the process. The reason for the Dail vote this week was not to enact Clare Daly’s draft wording, but just to progress it to Committee Stage. It is common practice for legislation to be checked line by line when it reaches the relevant Oireachtas Committee, where expert advisors, for example medical doctors and constitutional lawyers can be asked to give evidence. Parents affected by this issue could give evidence. Wording is very often changed at Committee Stage. To my mind, a more democratic step would have mean for government to agree to support the passage of the Bill as far as Committee Stage. Whatever the drafting flaws, the spirit of this Bill is correct and legislators have an obligation to give a voice to the minority group affected by this issue. The obligation to give a voice to minority groups was the reason why didn’t support the government position on the abolition of the Seanad during the 2013 referendum. I have long admired the ideals behind the first Senate in 1922, to give a parliamentary platform to minority groups whose views might otherwise have been swamped by the then majority influences of the Catholic Church. The Seanad was designed to protect minorities and if properly reformed, could become a powerful forum for minorities. Its abolition would have gained nothing for the small groups it was designed to protect. As I write this, I don’t yet know the full implications of my most recent refusal to support the government. My motives have been genuine and consistent. Minorities need a voice too. Anne Ferris is the Labour Party TD for the Wicklow/East Carlow Constituency. Vice-Chair of the Oireachtas Committee on Justice, Equality & Defence Committee and Vice-Chair of the Parliamentary Labour Party
“I
When did victims become survivors? For Fiona Doyle it happened in the appeal court where a judge ruled that the original sentence against her father Patrick O’Brien from bray was too lenient
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 Anne Ferris with Michael Wolsey
A name game or a blame game?
am not a victim anymore - I’m a survivor, said Fiona Doyle after her father was ordered to serve another six years in prison for repeatedly raping her when she was a child. When did victims become survivors? For Ms Doyle it happened in the appeal court where a judge ruled that the original sentence against her father Patrick O’Brien from Oldcourt in Bray was too lenient. But, in general, when was the word ‘victim’ replaced by ‘survivor’ in our social lexicon? Ten years ago they were all victims. Victims of abuse. Victims of violence. Victims of the Christian Brothers. Now they are survivors, transformed by some politically correct nuance that is lost on me. The Oxford Dictionary defines a survivor as “one still alive or in existence after the passing away (of others)”, so this new use isn’t terribly accurate. That doesn’t matter. People who have lived through such horrible events can describe themselves any way they want. But the change puzzles me, particularly since the old term still tends to be used by those who have suffered illness or at the hands of criminals - victims of cancer, victims of crime - when ‘survivor’ might actually be more appropriate. Fiona Doyle seemed a bit confused by the changing terminology. In the same radio interview where she announced her ‘survivor’ status she referred several times to herself and others as ‘victims’, using the word which came more naturally and readily to her. We all understand what she means regardless of which term she uses. So we shouldn’t tie our tongues in knots over such matters. The film star Benedict Cumberbatch recently issued a grovelling apology for referring to black actors as coloured. Yet, clearly he meant no harm. I remember a time when ‘coloured’ was the term we were encouraged to use, in lieu of others that were more condescending or offensive - a time when the National Association for the Advancement of Coloured People was the most respected of America’s civil rights bodies. ‘Black’, like ‘survivor’, is not always an accurate term. I have two ‘black’ grand-children, the offspring of an Irish mother and an African father. They are no more black than they are white and ‘coloured’, had it not fallen into disrepute, would be a perfectly reasonable description. I take no offence at its use by those who mean none. Honi soit qui mal y pense. When I was a child, the people now referred to as Travellers were called tinkers, an old and honourable term relating to their chief occupation, repairing pots and pans. Later the recommended term became Itinerants, a reference to their suppos-
edly nomadic existence. Even in the Seventies this was not an accurate description. Most members of the Travelling community do very little travelling. An exception were the 24 who took themselves to Australia and are now facing deportation for their involvement in a roofing scam. Looks like they will be doing more travelling than they expected. But they are, as I say, an exception. In most years I travel further than the average Traveller. Travellers get a bad name. They get it because of the involvement of some of them in activities such as this roofing scam, and faction fighting, and bareknuckle fighting, and dog-fighting and begging and trashing the sites where they halt. I don’t doubt that these are the activities of a minority and the majority of Travellers suffer because of them. But what needs to change is the behaviour, not the name. ‘Handicapped’ is another word that has been banished from the lexicon - to be replaced by the term ‘disabled’. Why is that? I suppose people can be disabled without necessarily being handicapped but, unless you think badly of those who are, I can’t see what difference the name makes. It has led to the use of the ridiculous term ‘abled’. You can be disgusted, dismayed and discharged. But you can’t be gusted, mayed or charged ... well, not in that sense. And you can’t be ‘abled’. If you use the world ‘abled’ you should be charged - with an offence against the English language. The Socialist TD Paul Murphy defended people who protested against President Higgins for doing his job. He did, however, think think they had overstepped the mark by calling the President a “little midget parasite”. Such language was “ableist” he told the Irish Examiner which translated the term as meaning meaning “offensive to people of restricted growth.” Paul Murphy is an agitator from a privileged background who delights in stirring trouble. The people who harassed the President are, in many cases, morons. But their abuse was not ‘ableist’ because, unlike the terms I have just used, there is no such word.
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| 09
February 12 2015 wicklowvoice.ie
anyotherbusiness
Have you got a story? Then email thecaptain@wicklowvoice.ie
focus on faces Liz McManus, Author and former TD Tell us about you new book A Shadow in the Yard? The novel begins with the body of a young woman being found by her neighbour, an old man who lived nearby near to the Border. The events leading up to her death and what follows afterwards make up the story. I suppose, since it is 24 years since my first novel was published it is inevitable that I would write about the changes that have occurred in Ireland over that time. The book starts in 1969 and the second half is set in 1999 so historical events provide the background to the lives of the characters. What is it about Ireland’s history that interests you? I’m interested in the way that the success of the Peace Process in Northern Ireland has required a collective amnesia of us all. I get angry at the rewriting of recent history that some political parties are engaged in. There is nothing honourable about a war that led to the killing and maiming of thousands of people and deepened the sectarian divide in the North. To paint it - as some people do - as some war of liberation is laughable. Pictured at the Bray & District Chamber Presidents Dinner at the Glenview Hotel were Tara Daly (Bray TV), Kathy O’Toole (Bray Chamber) and Sophie Daly (Bray TV).
Acts of terrorism are well known to us too
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he Charlie H e b d o shootings in Paris last month were an affront to our senses of morality and humanity. Wrong as the killings were though, it would be equally wrong to think that anything more than a very small minority of Muslim people feel the killings were done in their name. It is also naïve of the western world not to realise that freedom of speech comes at a price. Paris was a brutal reminder of this. We in Ireland remember well ‘The Troubles’. Although acts of terrorism and violence were perpetrated on our nearest neighbours, people in the UK were by and large able to realise that only a small minority of Irish people were involved. Politics, religion, economics and other ingredients can at times combine to make a lethal cocktail, and from there it doesn’t take much to light a fuse that triggers the kind of events we saw in Paris, or New York in 2001 or any number of places in the UK during ‘The Troubles’. You have to be able
Brian Quigley to see all sides. In the case of ‘The Troubles’ although most Irish people didn’t support the campaign of violence, they were able to understand the reasons that lay behind it – the oppression of Catholics in the North and other attendant injustices. I suppose the bottom line is that the vast majority of people in these situations won’t resort to violence, but there is always the risk that if trouble in hotspots around the world isn’t managed correctly there will be a few who will take matters into their own hands. It’s not an ideal situation, but we need to ‘risk assess’ everything in the modern world. We live in societies that are more multi-cultural than at
any time in history. In this day and age we are all used to being politically correct, avoiding any form of racism, sexism, homophobia and other discriminatory thinking or actions in our workplaces and in our personal lives as well. That’s a good thing and great progress for society to have achieved. But that’s not to say we don’t have a sense of humour or an ability to put things in context. That’s the challenge. If nobody could say anything or do anything that could in any way, however slight, be perceived by someone else as either culturally, ethnically, religiously or politically offensive then the world would be a terrible place. Freedom of thought and speech would be dead and people would be mere automatons. It’s a difficult balancing act humankind has to try to achieve. Maintain peace, minimise violence and generally try to progress civilisation during our lifetimes. Put in more than we take out. Leave the planet a slightly better place for our children and hope we have instilled the right values in them to do the same. Keep the ship on course. There will always be pitfalls along the way. We need
to learn from them and not react to them in a knee-jerk fashion. At what point do people get offended? It’s impossible to say. If you imitate somebody, with excess, then you create comedy. We should all be able to enjoy comedy, up to a point at least. But some people are offended by it. If you imitate with excess in an attempt to ridicule then you achieve parody. You’re in a different sphere to comedy with parody. You don’t know how offended some people might be, or how they will react to the offence felt. That’s not to say people [the press and entertainment industry, for example] shouldn’t feel entitled to use parody. They just need to expect the chance that there could potentially be a backlash, which is usually just verbal or written criticism. If you imitate with excess in an attempt to ridicule and your target is a political or religious figure then you have gone up a level again into the world of satire. Expect even more backlash, again usually written and verbal, but occasionally far worse as we saw in Paris.
What prompted you to write your second novel now? I have always wanted to write another novel but never had the time. Once I had retired from Dail Eireann I went back to school. I did the MPhil degree course in Trinity College and found it wonderful. The environment of encouragement and inspiration there got me started again at writing a novel and A Shadow in the Yard is the result. Advice to any aspiring writers? Write. Write. Write. Think. Think. Think. It is also helpful in my experience to spend time with other writers whose judgement you trust. I find it helpful and I’ve been in a writers group for over 20 years. Who are your literary heroes? I just love reading good literature and I find it hard to discriminate one writer against the other. I enjoy John Banville, Lia Mills, Eilis Ni Dhuibne, Richard Ford, John McGahern. Recently I read Richard Flanagan’s The Narrow Road to the Deep North and I was blown away by it. You are very involved with the Wicklow writing scene. How can others get involved? Well, there are writing groups that a writer can join. The one I’m in is a mixture of Dublin and Bray writers and we meet in Dublin. I try to go to the Bray Arts event that is held once a month in the Martello hotel and to readings by wellknown writers when I can. Recently I became Chairperson of the Irish Writers Centre in Parnell Square Dublin 1. It is a tremendous resource for writers and any aspiring writer might benefit from the courses and events organised there. What are your plans for 2015? I’m currently writing a book based on family papers – part history, part fiction. It will take me forever to write it....
Liz McManus is a former Labour TD for Wicklow. She served as a TD for 19 years before she retired from politics in 2011. She published her first novel, Acts of Subversion in 1991. It was shortlisted for several awards. She lives in Bray.
WILDLIFE
with Justin Ivory
Love is in the air!
free beauty treat of the week Guinot/Mary Cohr salon Church Road, Greystones, 01 2872705 Treat yourself throughout February - visit the award winning Guinot / Mary Cohr Salon in Greystones and enjoy free beauty treats with facials and body treatments. On Tuesdays, there’s a free three week manicure with every Beauté Neuve radiance boosting facial and on Wednesdays you can enjoy a free 100ml Guinot cleanser and toner with every Hydradermie deep cleansing facial. Get your yourself body beautiful this February with a free full size body moisturiser with any body treatment booked on Thursdays, and on Friday there’s a take home treat of an anti-aging mask (worth €40) with every lifting facial booked.
good deed of the week Kenya Build June/July 2015, www.kenyabuild.com, 086 8253531 Kenya Build have built classrooms for over 800 children and built accommodation for 150 orphaned and destitute children in Kenya. They are currently looking for volunteers for their 2015 project. The plan is to carry out general maintenance and painting work at a number of orphanages outside Nairobi where they have worked in the past. There will also be time spent interacting with the children and visiting slums to get a feel for how the very poor in Kenya live. You will have a life changing and deeply rewarding experience, an opportunity to cultivate new friendships and to make long lasting change in the lives of the less fortunate. The project will take place in late June/early July and each volunteer is expected to fundraise for the project. For more information see the website or contact Basil Love on the phone number above.
book of the week First World War: special edition By Henry Cairns Local man Henry Cairns has written a book about the role that Wicklow played in World War One. The book is the culmination of 40 years of research by Henry. The book, which is published by the Old Bray Society, mainly focuses on Bray but the entire county played an important role. Rathnew for instance was said to have supplied more men to the British Army than any other village in the Empire. The book contains the Roll of Honour, an abundance of photographs and details the stories of soldiers such as Bernard Martin who survived the war but had lost his sight. Martin learned how to use a braille typewriter and wrote his story and this is featured in this book. First World War: special edition can be purchased at Town Hall bookshop, Bray for €17.95.
Bray Historical Record Volume 1: No. 9
First World War Special Edition
First World War - Special Edition
With Valentine’s Day fast approaching, we humans will be getting “all loved up”. But this is also the month for amorous amphibians – in particular the Common Frog. Frogs, being cold-blooded (ectothermic), become inactive and hibernate during winter. During February (sometimes in mild years as early as January), Common Frogs (Rana temporaria) begin to emerge from hibernation and make their way to their traditional breeding sites of ponds, pools, ditches etc. If you have a garden pond head out on a mild rainy night and you might be treated to the sight of many frogs hop, skipping and jumping as they make their frenzied way towards your pond! The males are usually first to arrive and begin a chorus of low croaking to serenade the females. The males literally grab the females as they arrive at the spawning sites (no time for shrinking violets here!). A male will jump on the females back and wrap its front legs around her body, clinging on with specially adapted ‘nuptial pads’ on each of its “thumbs”. A female can attract a whole host of suitors who will all try to jump and cling onto her together, so much so that some females end up drowning from this over-zealous attention. While the male is attached, the female starts to lay her eggs which the male simultaneously fertilises. Each egg is covered by jelly which swells and offers some protection to the developing embryo. All these jelly covered eggs stick together to form the familiar masses of frogspawn. Two to three weeks later the tiny tadpoles will emerge. Some great places to experience frogs spawning are Glendalough, Powerscourt Gardens and Waterfall, and Vartry lakes. Get out in the next two weeks and you could be treated to a great spectacle! Just remember not to disturb the frogs and that it is illegal to remove frog spawn without a licence. So what are you waiting for – hop to it!
wicklowvoice.ie February 12 2015
Bray Historical Record Volume 1: No. 9
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10 | WHAT’S HOT
TV SHOW of the week Edited by Henry Cairns
Better Call Saul
Netflix, Mondays
The prequel, spin-off to the almighty Breaking Bad has arrived. While it is doubtful that Better Call Saul will be the phenomenon that BB was, hopes remain high for a top quality show. Featuring one of the best loved characters from Heisenberg’s world, morally bankrupt lawyer Saul Goodman, at the very least it will be something to take the sting out of our withdrawals. The show’s presentday prologue - shot in black and white
hot ticket of the week PJ Gallagher - Concussion The Courthouse Arts Centre, Tinahely, March 14 One of Ireland’s most popular comedians, PJ Gallagher, is making a highly anticipated comeback with his first Irish tour in two years. The well known as a star of RTÉ’s Next Week’s News with Bernard O’Shea, Meet Your Neighbours and Naked Camera will be bringing his brand new show, Concussion, to Wicklow this March. A natural on the stage, PJ has played sold-out shows throughout Ireland as well as the biggest and best comedy festivals that the country has to offer, including Kilkenny Cat Laughs and The Vodafone Comedy Carnival. Most recently PJ has joined the breakfast show on Classic Hits 4FM, as well as completing the Route 66 Motorbike Challenge in aid of Temple Street Children’s Hospital. Tickets are on sale now from usual outlets nationwide. See www.pjgallagher.ie for more.
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First World War Special Edition
- begins with Saul working a menial job at a fast food restaurant in Nebraska, spending his evenings thinking back to better days, the days before Walter White first darkened his doorway. Albequerque 2002, when he still went by Jimmy McGill. The origin story charts his development from law-abiding lawyer to crime facilitator. Some familiar faces will feature including Mike Ehrmantraut (Jonathan Banks). No official word on whether Walt will appear but Aaron Paul has said that Jesse is unlikely as his character would still be in high school.
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WHAT’S HOT| 11
February 12 2015 wicklowvoice.ie
MOVIE of the week 50 Shades of Grey Gaiety Cinema, Arklow Oscar season is winding down but there are still plenty of superb films out and the big award contenders are still showing if you haven’t managed to catch must-see movies such as Whiplash or Selma. Also out this week is the inescapable 50 Shades of Grey. No matter your feelings on the book or adaptation, there’s little chance of avoiding this for the next couple of weeks. Released on Valentine’s Day, screenings began selling tickets around Halloween last year so booking ahead is advised if you plan on seeing this one. E.L. James’s story follows Anastasia Steele (Dakota Johnson)as she meets wealthy, handsome Christian Grey (Jamie Dornan). The attraction is instant but Ana soon learns that Christian is only interested in a relationship on his controlling terms. They embark on a passionate affair and Christian introduces Ana to his dark and very particular tastes. Or you could see Shaun the Sheep.
HOROSCOPES with Siobhan Moore Whelan
Exam tip of the week Bray Grinds Institute The Royal Hotel, Main Street, Bray, 01 2016365/087 9292593 Now that the mocks are behind you, it is time to start looking ahead to the real thing. It can all seem a bit daunting as you enter the home stretch but a little bit of guidance goes a long way. Bray Grinds Institute is the ideal place to go if you feel you need some additional help with your subjects. There are weekly grinds for students from first to sixth year. For those in exam years, they are
currently enrolling for the intensive Easter revision courses. If you book now, when you buy your first course you will get your second course for free. Bray Grinds Institute was established by primary school teacher, Claire Ryan who puts an emphasis on maintaining a low student to teacher ratio. This ensures that each student receives the time and attention that they require in order to achieve their goals. Students are provided with superb, up-to-date and insightful notes that provide exclusive and practical tips for each subjects.
Holiday idea of the week
Aries-2,4,6,26,28,38 The cosmos will get moving to create sparks that fire up your senses. Your energy levels soar to new heights. Social whirlwind. Taurus-1,11,21,30,32,40 The Spring makes you more inclined to believe in yourself Taurus. Harmony in love and career. Gemini- 11,14,23,26,33,42 What a month you will be firing on all cylinders which will have your going in circles - prioritise. Cancer-8,12, 20,23,31,39 Spring is here and you will be irresistible! Make the most of it and focus on collective plans! Leo-2,14,15,22,28,33 The Spring will accentuate you by boosting your desire to enjoy the moment to the full.
Travel Boutique 2 Killarney Villas, Main Street, Bray, 01 2768114, travel@thetravelboutique.ie
Virgo-1,7,13,,27,35,37 Keep your ears open for an unique opportunity! Mars will add fuel to electrify your life. New beginnings.
Spring is in the air and it is now time to take off on a city break. With direct flights from Dublin to many UK, European and US cities, it has never been a better time to pack the bags and head off for a couple of days. The Travel Boutique will offer you the widest choice of city break ideas – Paris, Barcelona, Rome, Venice, Prague, Krakow and many many more. They have excellent prices for all types of accommodations and will arrange flights, transfers and accommodation for you so you can sit back and enjoy your break! For the best advice, prices, service and instant access to 1000’s of accommodations at reduced prices, call or email them today.
Libra-6,10,16,28,34,40 A month of many new opportunities and nothing to hold you back. You will be a busy bee so enjoy.
GIG of the week Bray Comedy Mini Fest The Harbour Bar, The Martello, Strand Road, February 18-22 For the very first time Bray will host it’s own mini comedy festival with a cracking line up involving some of the country’s top acts. Spread over five days of hilarity, the mini fest takes place from February 18 to 22 with shows in The Harbour Bar and The Martello. Over 25 acts are set to take the stage during six great
Wedding showcase of the week Powerscourt adores weddings Powerscourt Estate, Powerscourt, March 8, 12pm-3pm Ireland’s leading five star hotel and ultimate spectacular wedding venue, Powerscourt Hotel Resort & Spa, invites you to join them for their wedding extravaganza. Model Pippa O’Connor will be there on the day to share her fashion tips and advice on everything bridal. Guests are invited to enjoy the Bridal Fashion Show featuring the most dazzling designer bridal wear, takes place in the Ballroom from 2pm. Following the show, Pippa will be sharing some valuable styling tricks as well as tips on what to do and how to prepare for your big day. She will also reveal her personal experiences from her own wedding day which was held at Powerscourt. All aspects of a perfect wedding will be covered at the showcase, from floral to photography, cakes to civil ceremonies. And, if you book your wedding on the day, you will also be able to avail of a 10% discount on winter and midweek wedding packages.
shows with something for everyone to enjoy. Many of Bray’s favourites (and a few of Ireland’s very best) comedians are on the line up including Ardal O’Hanlon, Andrew Stanley, Simon O’Keefe, Eric Lalor, Colm O’Regan, Adam Burke and many more! Tickets for Ardal O’Hanlon are available from The Martello and the rest of the shows are free admission. Mark off the dates in your diary and get ready to laugh away those winter blues!
Scorpio-14,17,26,29,31,33 Spring brings you balance and enthusiasm which will reestablish balance. Breathe some fresh air into your love-life. Sagittarius-2,18,24,28,34,43 New start as Spring arrives which brings you a range of ideas. Balance will be found and authenticity. Capricorn-4,12,17,22,33,37 Wakey Wakey Spring is here which brings you new shoots of optimism. Money troubles are nearly over. Playtime! Aquarius-3,14,12,28,33,40 A spring in your step time to follow your dreams. Open up to new ventures and ideas and you won’t be disappointed. Pisces-4,12,16,21,26,36 So many choices Pisces; Spring floods you with ideas, energy and fresh enthusiasm the sky is the limit.
Horoscopes with Siobhan Moore Whelan - Live Psychic & Medium ring 1580997207. Over 18’s with bill payers permission - entertainment purposes. Calls cost €2.44 per minute and may vary on other networks.
12 | SCHOOLS
wicklowvoice.ie February 12 2015
Broad welcome as announced for Gr
By Michelle McGlynn
The recent annoucement of a new primary school to be established in September 2015 has been welcomed throughout the county. The school will be located in Greystones, a move that has been welcomed by parents in the area. It is assumed that the primary school will be delivered in Charlesland where lands have been zoned for the provision of a school. The recent annoucement has been welcomed by parents following a long campaign for the development of a new school. A total of 18 school projects have been announced, completed or are currently ongoing in the county (see graphic). This has been a concern for parents over the past few years as places were becoming increasingly difficult to obtain for primary school pupils. The continuing rise in primary school numbers meant that many parents were forced to travel outside the locality to enrol their children. The announcement by Minister for Education Jan O’Sullivan TD named a total of seven schools to be developed in the country over the next two years. In total, these schools will support a total of 240 jobs directly and 48 indirect jobs. Speaking on the announcement Fine Gael TD for Wicklow and Minister of State, Simon Harris said, “For some time now I have
been campaigning for the delivery of a new school in Greystones and I have made it one of my top priorities. “I have also been working alongside local Fine Gael Greystones Councillors Derek Mitchell and Gráinne McLoughlin. “Indeed just recently I wrote to residents in the Charlesland area, informing them of the status
of this development,” Harris continued. “I also reassured residents that I was keeping in close contact with the Minister for Education, Jan O’Sullivan on the delivery of this vital infrastructure for our community. “Our current local primary schools are doing a tremendous job but demographics clearly showed an additional school was
required. “Today is a great day for parents, young children and the community of Greystones All TDs and I look forward to the Counciil y delivery of Greystones’ Bray, grew o l newest primary school,” k Wic o concluded Minister and Arkl o Harris. c e r we Cllr Derek Mitchell to comm noted numerous benefits advertis this new school will have for pa its pupils and the community.
This is a victory for a diffe
T
he new primary school for Charlesland is a victory for a better kind of politics – where public resources are allocated based on need, rather than influence. Councillor Jennifer Whitmore and I ran a campaign, over several years, focusing on the evidence of unmet demand for school places for young children. We were delighted to hear from the Department last week that they agree with this evidence, and are therefore funding a new school. The patronage system is a hallmark of old school Irish politics – get your local TDs to lean on their minister for a police station, or a local hospital, or whatever you’re having yourself.
Stephen Donnelly The result is policing and healthcare resources, and other public services, that aren’t always where they’re needed most. Fianna Fáil are regarded as masters of this form of politics, which has helped keep them in power for a very long time.
But it’s clear the Irish people have had quite enough of it. When questions were raised over how James Reilly was allocating primary care centres, people reacted with fury. Questions are currently being asked as to how the Blessington Greenway Project (a truly brilliant initiative) didn’t get funding, having received the second highest score nationally by Department officials. A project in the Minister’s constituency, which didn’t make the shortlist, was funded. By contrast, the announcement of a new school for Charlesland is a good example of things being done properly, with some room to improve further. Here’s how. In the summer of 2011 I began hearing from parents of young children who should’ve been starting primary school that September.
There weren’t enough junior infant places, so hundreds of children were placed on waiting lists. The same happened the following year. The principals and teachers of the local schools worked incredibly hard to ensure every child was accommodated, and deserve enormous credit and respect for their efforts. But clearly there was a problem, so we looked into it. The Department was refusing to entertain the idea of a new primary school because their analysis showed the high demand was a blip – the result of a baby boom – that would soon fall off. They were, quite understandably, unwilling to build an unnecessary new school. So we looked further. It turns out the analysis didn’t factor in the
February 12 2015 wicklowvoice.ie
s new school reystones area
s, a n d llors in , ystones w town ow areas d ontacte d ment an is se on th ag e
“In Charlesland the footpaths are good and if there is a local school the children will be able to safely cycle or walk which will cut down traffic and be good for their health and sense of independence,” Mitchell stated. Independent TD Stephen Donnelly and Councillor Jennifer Whitmore also
welcomed the news. “This is great news and is something we’ve been working on for some time. “I initially made a submission to then Minister for Education Ruairi Quinn about the shortfall in junior infant places in Greystones, Delgany and Kilcoole and the need for a new school in 2013,” stated Donnelly. “We followed this up with a huge
public meeting in Charlesland Golf Club and a petition which collected over 2,000 signatures. “These were then presented to the Minister and I drove to Tullaghmore in June 2013 to meet with the Department of Education’s forward planning team to make the case for a new primary school in Greystones,” Donnelly continued. “Ever since then I have been liaising with the Department and the Ministers Quinn and O’Sullivan, updating the information I provided them, like when the 2014 Junior Infant intake from 2008 to 2014 was released. “I am delighted that the Department has made this decision and would like to thank everyone who attended the public meetings and signed the petition,” concluded Donnelly. Meanwhile, Andrew Doyle TD has welcomed the additional option for parents when choosing where to educate their children. “The opening of this new school will provide more schooling choices for parents in Greystones and the surrounding areas as it builds on the work of the Forum on Patronage and Pluralism in the Primary Sector,” Doyle said. “It shows our Government’s commitment to fostering and maintaining a solid primary education for our children.” The specific site of the school will be confirmed shortly and a patronage determination process will be conducted.
erent kind of politics population growth forecasts for the area. While the number of young children for the existing population was going to fall back a bit, the total population was rising – and so the demand for more primary school places would continue. This formed the basis of the case for the new school. We then used a map of anonymised Department of Education data to show that these children predominantly lived in estates including Charlesland, Delgany Wood and Eden Gate. This formed the basis of the argument for the school to be located in or very close to Charlesland. To demonstrate local support, we held a public meeting and collected over 2,000 signatures (thanks to all who came out with us and knocked on doors).
We put a detailed policy briefing together for the Minister, who suggested we take the evidence to the Department of Education’s forward planning team. So we did. In June 2013 I drove to Tullaghmore and presented the case for a new school to the officials. They outlined the process for how the locations of the next tranche of schools would be decided. They stated, quite rightly, that the school we were advocating for would only be sanctioned if the numbers stacked up. They decided to wait a further year to see if the waiting lists continued, which, as every parent with a four- or five-year-old knows, they did. And so the community has now got the result it needed – a new school to serve local children, and to take the extra pressure off the
existing schools. The Department officials are to be commended for basing their decisions on data, and on being open to changing that position based on new analysis. A more transparent process and better availability of data would really help future cases. Creating the analytical case for the school was not easy – and I’ve worked with data and analysis my entire career. If the relevant data was publicly available, and easy to use, it would allow individuals and communities check that they are getting their proper allocation of public resources – in this case education. This is part of the required process of political reform, and one I will continue to push for. In the meantime, let’s enjoy the new school!
SCHOOLS | 13
14 | LIFESTYLE
wicklowvoice.ie February 12 2015
my favourite things During these short, sharp winter days, as a barrage of weather woes await you outside your front door, what could be more tantalising than thoughts of exotic faraway lands and balmy foreign climes? Taking a trip abroad is one of the best ways to ride out the colder months, and quite simply the attraction of tropical temperatures that are impossible to enjoy here at home, makes planning any offshore journey worthwhile! Get your next adventure off to the right start with my Top Five Travel Tips…
FIND YOUR BLISS
Discover the best beach paradises and luxury hideaways with TASCHEN’s visually inspiring guide, ‘100 Getaways around the World’. From B&B basic to 6*star luxurious; this glossy compilation, selected by the design house’s style and travel department, features 100 truly unique hotels and guesthouses from all over the globe. TASCHEN 100 Getaways Around the World €46 www.amara.com
PREPARE TO PACK
Make sure you provide yourself with plenty of time to pack for your trip. The more time you have, the less likely you’ll find yourself carting around unnecessary items and forgetting necessary ones! Choosing a case in a bright colour or eyecatching design makes it easier to identify your luggage and leads to a swift pick-up on the other side. From €65 Selected Tripp luggage @ Debenhams
SHADEY LADY
An essential item whether you’re headed to the sunny beach or the snowy mountains, remember
to pack a pair of good quality sunglasses to keep your peepers protected. You can be stylish and practical with cult brand Ray-Ban, now offering the classic Wayfarer in a portable, compact folding style! Simply fold away for safe-keeping, unfold and wear again. Ray-Ban Wayfarer Folding Classic €148 www. sunglasses.ie
THROW IT ON
Regardless of whether you’re hitting the beach for a fortnight or taking a quick weekend break, remember to pack at least one multitasking item that will take you right through from airport to arrival and beyond. Cue the humble scarf. Investing in a sweeping, multicoloured, natural fibre throw-on is a simple and chic way to stay warm in a multitude of environments. Ideal in harsh air-conditioned settings and for those chilly spells, a great scarf will boost your basic travel wardrobe fast, and can even double up as a handy pillow when you need to catch some quick shut-eye! Silk & Cotton Scarf €139.95 NOA NOA @ Escape Boutique Greystones
WHAT’s HOT
with Mairéad Vickers info@wicklowvoice.ie JOURNEY JOTTER
It’s hard not to be inspired by the unforgettable experience travelling overseas brings, and making the effort to record those special moments will ensure you have an incredible book of memories to browse when you return home. Keep track of your trip in this stylish travel journal and re-visit your amazing adventures over and over again. Travel journal €14.75 Wild and Wolf @House of Fraser
Mairéad Vickers Styling
Covering a wide range of styling services at extremely reasonable rates, including customised style advice and personal shopping services at home or on the go, Mairéad Vickers Styling offers a unique gift experience and a one-stop shop for her complete wardrobe needs. Further info at www.maireadvickers.com
February 12 2015 wicklowvoice.ie
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16 | LIFESTYLE wicklowvoice.ie February 12 2015
Glendalough to but we’re not so By Michelle McGlynn
Romance may be in the air but it seems as though Wicklow people are the unluckiest in love. A recent analysis of census data has revealed that people Wicklow, along with Wexford, are the most likely to be divorced or separated. The study revealed that Wicklow has a divorce or separation rate of 51 per 1,000 which is 15% higher than the national average of 44 per 1,000.
The Wicklow rate is a full one third higher than Galway and Cavan who have the lowest rate of divorce or separation. Of those in the county who have divorced or separated, women outnumber men. Although Wicklow has the highest number of divorced or separated men in Ireland. Wicklow’s high rate of divorce and separation is not necessarily a bad thing according to Relationships Ireland counsellor Tony Moore. “In the countryside people can
€ The Royal Hotel & Merrill Leisure Club, Main Street, Bray, Co. Wicklow Tel: (01) 2862935 www.royalhotel.ie events@royalhotel.ie
be more reluctant to separate because of the gossip in the local community,” said Moore. “People live close to their families and sometimes their inlaws, so there’s huge pressure to stay together even if you’re very unhappy.” But fear not, these figures do not mean that romance is dead in the Garden County. People in Wicklow are the most likely to remarry according to the study conducted by the Irish Mirror. Data for 2013 shows that 10% of grooms and 8% of brides who registered weddings in Wicklow were remarrying following the split from their first spouse. For those who are still loved up and looking for somewhere special to celebrate, the newspaper has also named two Wicklow locations among the most romantic places in Ireland. Glendalough is recommended as the top romantic location as the monastic site offers stunning views and is the ideal spot for a romantic walk or a picnic.
Wedding Fair Sunday 22nd February 1pm - 5pm ~ Idyllic Wicklow Setting ~ ~ Dedicated & Experienced Wedding Team ~ ~ Recently Refurbished Ballroom & Guest Rooms ~
Wedding Packages from €89 For a personal appointment, please RSVP to Nessa Kearney ~ Newtownmountkennedy, Co.Wicklow ~ T. + 353 1 287 0811 ~ E. weddings@druidsglenresort.com ~ www.druidsglenresort.com ~
LIFESTYLE | 17
February 12 2015 wicklowvoice.ie
o ps for romance Seven salons up lucky in love for mag awards By Michelle McGlynn
Also featured on the list is Powerscourt Estate which offers a wonderful view of the Sugar Loaf mountain. Take a stroll around the stunning grounds with your beau
and to take your date to another level make the short trip on the Powerscourt Waterfall. There’s little excuse to skimp on romance when you live the Garden County, especially on
the most romantic day of the year. Everything you need for the perfect date with the your special someone is right on your doorstep.
Wicklow beauty salons are among the top in the country according to Image magazine. The Irish magazine have drawn up the shortlists for the Image Business of Beauty awards 2015 featuring no less than seven Wicklow nominations. Now in its second year, the awards shortlist Ireland’s best beauty practitioners across 12 categories and then readers are given the chance to vote. The nominations are unsurprisingly dominated by the capital but Wicklow is next in line, declaring itself as an important spot for premier beauty treatments. Ladies of the Garden County are on trend with fantastically groomed brows as two nominations in the Best Brow Artist category are from the county. Elaine McParland from Up to my Eyes in Greystones is an expert when it comes to Embrowdery semi-permanent make-up and HD Brows.
Her talents are a hit with Ireland’s top beauties and fashionistas. Her clientèle includes Rozanna Purcell, Georgia Salpa and Nadia Forde. Rebecca Greene from Vintage Glamour in Arklow is also vying for the title of Best Brow Artist. Vintage Glamour offer Embrowdery as well as the Perfect Brow Treatment which is exclusive to the salon. The treatment combines bespoke tinting, threading, waxing, tweezing and trimming to create the perfect brow shape. Also nominated is Lisa Collins who runs Wax It in Greystones. She has been nominated as a therapist who is exceptionally adept in the art of waxing. At Wax It they use Waxperts Wax, which is extremely gentle and perfect for those with more sensitive skin. Lady G salon, Greystones are nominated in the Best Beauticians category. To be shortlisted in this category, the beauticians must be experts across all services
offered. Lady G’s treatments include YonKa facials, CND Shellac, JetPeel facials, Hopi Ear Candling and Swedish massage. Alison Banton of Brooke and Shoals has been nominated as a Beauty Innovator. The Greystones based company create high quality scented candles and organic body products which are sold in boutiques and gift shops throughout Ireland and the UK and increasingly in mainland Europe. ESPA at the Powerscourt Hotel are shortlisted in the Best Spa category as a world-class spa facility boasting a unique experience, innovative treatment menu and offer the highest standard client service. Anna Schu have are competing for the title of Best Nail Salon. Anna Schu offer a variety of nail treatments from classic manicure/pedicures, schellac and gel nails to their Ultimate Experiences which are a pampering treat. Voting is open until March 21 and you can vote at bob.image.ie.
18 | ADVERTISING
wicklowvoice.ie February 12 2015
LIFESTYLE| 19
February 12 2015 wicklowvoice.ie
filling 50g Butter 4tblsp Calvados 100g Sultanas 150g Raspberries 4 – 5 Granny Smith apples (peeled and diced) Melt the butter until foaming then add the chopped apples fry until the apples have a
golden brown colour add the calvados and cook out take the mix off the heat and add the sultanas and raspberries, leave to cool. fFll the pre baked tart moulds and level off. Add the streusel topping and bake in the oven at 180oc for 5 minutes.
Topping
75g plain flour ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
40g butter 40g Demerara sugar 2 tablespoons crushed hazelnuts
Method:
Rub all the ingredients together apart from the hazelnuts, then add the nuts at the last minute. Lay flat on a tray and bake in the oven at 170oc for 8 minutes Leave to cool, then roughly brake the mix up.
The top three financial New Year resolutions Advertorial
It’s that time of year when many of us are making (and not yet breaking) New Year’s Resolutions, some of which are very likely to be financial goals. Research shows that our top three financial resolutions, year after year, are spend less, save more, and pay off debt. These are of course worthy goals but the problem is that these are vague statements that may never become more than a pipedream. So I’m going to give you some specific tips on how to strengthen - and keep - these resolutions. 1. How to spend less If you want to spend less, the very first step is to write out in detail your monthly expenditure. If you don’t know what you’re spending money on, you have no way of knowing what you are possibly ‘wasting’ money on and no way of deciding what exactly to cut back on. When it comes to big purchases, try to avoid impulse buying or buying to keep up with the Joneses. Give yourself the time to think
carefully about whether you really need and can afford the item. Know exactly how you are going to pay for it and how it will affect your monthly budget.
2. How to save more Adding income to your workings means you can figure out whether you have a monthly surplus or deficit (which should tally with your bank balance changes or else you’re missing something). You can now have both a spending and saving budget which you should try to stick to throughout the year. The best way to save is to automate the process, in other words, set up a direct debit to a deposit account. This creates a savings habit and will make you much less likely to reduce or stop monthly contributions. Once you have an appropriate emergency funds reserve you can consider more medium to long term investment and pension contributions. 3. How to pay off debt First, stop contributing to your
debt - set a realistic budget to keep yourself living within your means. And keep a rainy day fund so that emergency expenses don’t end up on your credit card. Next, if you are in a position to pay off debt, focus first on the most expensive debt. For most of us, our most expensive debt is credit card debt. Make a resolution to start paying off your credit card (or cards) in full each month, thus avoiding what can be crippling rates of interest. If that’s not immediately possible, pay as much as you can towards your card with the highest interest rate, and then pay the minimum on all your other balances. Finally, as with savings, automate these debt payments. Good luck! To read more please visit my website www.moneysmart. ie and like my Money Smart Ireland Facebook page for tips on How To Be Money Smart. Fonz Scanlan is a Certified Financial Planner® and Wealth Manager at Money Smart.
Members of the Wicklow Girl Guides Claire Sammon, Amelia Finnerty and Leah Byrne ask you to Hear no Evil, See no Evil and Type no Evil at the launch of Safer Internet Day 2015 in Dublin Castle. Picture Andres Poveda Members of the Wicklow Girl Guides were on hand to help RTÉ 2FM DJ, Rick O’Shea launch Safer Internet Day 2015 in Dublin Castle recently. Safer Internet Day, an initiative of the European Commission’s Safer Internet Programme, marks an annual opportunity to engage in
making the internet a safer and better place for children and young people. Since its first edition in 2004, Safer Internet Day has grown tremendously to reach more than 100 countries worldwide, including all 28 countries of the European Union. The campaign is promoted in Ireland by
Webwise, the internet safety initiative of the Professional Development Service for Teachers (PDST). A new report on children’s use of the internet launched to mark Safer Internet Day 2015 has found that Irish schools are considerably above the EU average in tackling internet safety issues.
A different treat
throughout the week
for february only
tueSday
Makes 4 individual tarts
radiance facial with fruit acids Beauté Neuve
SPeCIal offer
WedneSday
Apple Streusel
Wicklow Girl Guides launch Safer Internet Day
Customised Signature facial Hydradermie2
SPeCIal offer
tHurSday
Head Chef at Sika Restaurant in The Powerscourt Hotel
body beautiful A body treatment of your choice
SPeCIal offer
frIday
recipes
Peter Byrne
lifting and rejuvenating facials Hydradermie2 Lift or Liftosome
SPeCIal offer
A free 3 week manicure with every Beauté Neuve facial
A free 100 ml cleanser and toner duo with every Hydradermie2 facial
Free full-size Cosmecology Hydra Body moisturiser with any body treatment
Free full-size Masque Vital AntiRides with any lifting treatment (worth €40)
the Guinot Mary Cohr Salon Church road, Greystones, Co. Wicklow t: 012872705 www.guinot.com Guinot Mary Cohr Salon Greystones
20 | NEWS
wicklowvoice.ie February 12 2015
David and Lynne Fitzgerald from Glenealy out and about in Wicklow Town
news in brief Social singles This Valentines Day the Hot Spot, Greystones is the place to be for over 35s from 8.30pm. This night will be filled with fun, comedy and dance music from 60s to 80s. Tickets are €10, available from Vintage La Touche.
Spring quiz
The spring season of the Lions Great Bray Pub Quiz kicks off February 12 at Boomerang Pub, Bray and will continue in Jim Doyle’s February 17 and the Coach Inn on February 20. Each quiz is for teams of four, it is €40 per team and funds raised will go towards ASIAM Autism Awareness.
Memento Mori An exhibition by talented ceramics artist Vicki Sutherland will run from February 16 until March 1 at Signal Arts Centre, Bray. Memento Mori is inspired by cave art from millennia ago and symbolizesman’s attempt to have total control over his environment.
Buying? Selling? Contact one of our team today
e: info@ wicklowvoice.ie w: www. wicklowvoice.ie t: 01 901 5556 or 01 901 5557
ADVERTISING| 21
February 12 2015 wicklowvoice.ie
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22 | SPORT sport in brief Garden County
The squads return for the year ahead on February 14. Keep an eye on social media platforms for news and updates throughout the year. There will be a fun run/walk in Ballinakill/Rathdrum on April 11. It is being held in aid of county football and hurling academy squads. More information can be found on the website.
Arklow Geraldines AGB registration day was once again a successful and well organised event, thanks to the hard work of AGB stalwarts and volunteers. Thank you to all who helped out on the day and to all the players and members who utilised the facility to register. The next Ladies Committee Meeting will take place on March 3 in the Harbour Bar. The next Executive Meeting will take place on March 4 in Pearse Park at 8pm. AGB club gear is currently available and includes some new gear for 2015. Contact Kerry on 087 3287881 to order.
An Tochar GAA
wicklowvoice.ie February 12 2015 Tickets for the Parishes Punch Up on February 28 are now on general release and selling fast. Contact any of the boxers for tickets and see the website for more details. Our Scór Sinsear quiz team were successful last weekend and will now represent the club and county in the All-Ireland Finals in Citywest Hotel on April 25. Our Kellogg’s Cúl Camp will take place from 6-10 July this year. Further details will be published in due course.
Bray Emmets The lotto numbers drawn were 27, 18, 9, 15. There was no winner, the next jackpot is €11, 700. Strictly Bray Emmets is fast approaching, don’t forget to sponsor your dancers. Recycling day is March 7. Please drop off all clothes bags before noon on the day. Subscriptions for all members are now due. Closing date for registration for all playing members, coaches and mentors is March 2. This can be done online at www.brayemmets.com. If you would like to be part of Bray Emmets first adult camogie team in 35 years, please contact camogiebray@ gmail.com.
Wicklow storm back to defeat Leitrim Wicklow struck with a storming second-half comeback to snatch a one point win over Leitrim in their Division 4 clash at Aughrim on February 8. The home side were lethargic in the first-half and Leitrim applied most of the pressure as they raced to a nine points lead after 26 minutes with outstanding performances from attackers Donal Wrynn, Fergal Clancy, Kevin Conlan and midfielder James McGrail. Defenders Alan Byrne and Ross O’Brien were the only Wicklow players providing resistance and John Magee had to switch Mick McLoughlin to full-back to curb a rampant Wrynn, In the last five minutes of the half, Seanie Furlong, Conor McGraynor, Mark Kenny and John McGrath fired over points to narrow the gap to 0-4 to 0-9 at the break and give Wicklow hope. Then, with a slight wind behind them, Wicklow were transformed in the secondhalf. Conor McGraynor moved
Some of the primary schools from Carnew NS, Rathcoyle NS, Aughrim NS, Arklow BNS, Avoca NS, Coolafancy NS, Shillelagh NS and Crossbridge NS who came together to play indoor football for 3rd and 4th classes only in Aughrim Community Centre last week to midfield and played a blinder; Brendan McCrea and
Paudge McWalter came off the bench and upped the ante
immeasurably. After a barren 12 minutes Conor McGraynor sparked the comeback with a point from a free. McGrath, Darren Hayden, McCrea landed points and the margin was down to a single point. McGrath brought Wicklow level with another point from a free on 57 minutes and he gave them the lead a minute later from another placed ball. A good point from Seanie Furlong proved vital to Wicklow in the end, as Kevin Conlon struck his sixth Leitrim point before the end to cut the margin to a single point. The Garden County kicked off their National Football League campaign on January 31 with a narrow 0-14 to 0-10 Division 4 defeat at the hands of Waterford at Fraher Field. This was always going to be their toughest match in the campaign. Thankfully Wicklow bounced right back with a hard-fought 0-11 to 0-10 win over Leitrim a week later on February 8.
sport| 23
February 12 2015 wicklowvoice.ie
insideback
with Brian Quigley
Battling Pres sail through to quarters
Rugby
Greystones RFC first XV ended up on the wrong side of a 29-19 scoreline to promotion rivals Tullamore in Division 2B of the All Ireland Rugby League last month Stones had been holding their hosts 5-5 at half-time. They will have a chance to get their promotion bid back on track on February 21 when they host lowly Kanturk at Dr Hickey Park. In the Leinster Schools Junior Cup St Gerard’s from Bray lost out in their last 16 match to Belvedere, 20-0 at Donnybrook on February 3. Presentation College Bray are still in the hunt for Junior Cup honours though, having overcome Kilkenny College 23-0 on February 4. They will play their quarterfinal on February 25 at Donnybrook against Roscrea and pupils past and present, their families or anyone with an interest in rugby are being
Finally, Inside Back wishes Wicklow man Ed Joyce the best of luck as he and the rest of the Ireland squad make their final preparations for the Cricket World Cup which starts in Australia and New Zealand this weekend. Ireland’s first match in Pool B will be against the mighty West Indies on Febraury 16 at the Saxton Oval in Nelson. Inside Back will be following the tournament closely and will be reporting regularly about the Blarney Army’s exploits over the next month.
Local businessman Paul Fennel decided to make the most of the good weather and rip some waves at the Cove in Arklow recently (pic Yvette O Beirne) asked to come along and shout for the team. It is 25, 30 and 40 years this year since three of Presentation College’s previous
triumphs at Junior Cup level, so hopefully this is a good omen for the boys in white. Rugby is on everyone’s radar
at the moment, with the RBS Six Nations in full swing. As a county we should be proud of our rugby tradition,
from schools rugby through to club and beyond. Cricket
Soccer Bray Wanderers kicked off their pre-season with a 3-1 win in Stepaside on January 31 over new partners Ardmore Rovers. This was followed up with a 1-0 victory ver Waterford United on February 7 in Kilternan. On February 14 the Seagulls take on Shelbourne in their next friendly at Greystones United’s astroturf pitch. Why not come along and check out the newlook Wanderers in action!
24| ADVERTISING
wicklowvoice.ie February 12 2015