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wicklowvoice.ie January 15 2015
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January 15, 2015, t: 01 901 5556/7, e: info@wicklowvoice.ie
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20,000 copies
It’s lights, camera, lots of film action
Three movies to be shot in Wicklow area this year By Michelle McGlynn
This year looks set to be a bumper one for films in Wicklow as the Irish Film Board announce their 2015 line-up. Two films will begin production in the first half of the year while a third appears likely in the second half. Jim Sheridan’s film adaptation of Sebastian Barry’s Booker Prize shortlisted novel, The Secret Scripture, has begun principal photography and will start shooting this month. The star-studded cast includes Wicklow star Jack Reynor and fellow Irish actors Tom Vaughan-Lawlor, aka Love/ Hate’s Nidge, and Aidan Turner. The Irish lads will star alongside Oscar winner Vanessa Redgrave and Girl with the Dragon Tattoo’s Rooney Mara. It is also rumoured that Star Trek star Eric Bana and Theo James, breakout star of
Roz Purcell at the launch of the Irish Cancer Society’s Get Active programme for 2015, including Hell and Back at Killruddery House on January 25 and February 1 » Lots more pictures from around the county inside Divergent, will be joining them. The Secret Scripture tells the story of a 100-year-old woman who recounts the diary of her extended stay at a mental hospital in the west of Ireland. It looks like Transformers star Reynor will be home for a long
stretch in 2015 as it has been strongly suggested that another of his upcoming projects will be filmed in Wicklow. John Carney, creator of Once, has cast Reynor and Aidan Gillen in Sing Street - about a 14-year-old wannabe rock star.
Carney has teamed up with U2 this time who have allegedly penned several tracks for the soundtrack. Meanwhile, the man who wrote and directed the cult hit The Last Days of Disco, Whit Stillman will film a Jane Austen adaptation at Russborough House. Based on Austen’s novella Lady Susan, it will feature Foxcatcher actress Sienna Miller and Chloe Sevigny. Wicklow will continue to feature prominently on our television screens in 2015 as viewers are already looking forward to the second season of Penny Dreadful, which films in Ardmore Studios, when it returns to Sky Atlantic in April. History Channel series Vikings wrapped filming its third season in Ashford Studios in late 2014 and will premiere in the US in mid-February and then RTE later in the year.
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4 | NEWS news in brief One act drama fest
wicklowvoice.ie January 15 2015
Killruddery gets back in the Groove
The Bray One Act Drama Festival will take place from January 27 -until January 31 in the Mermaid Arts Centre in Bray. There will be 13 one act plays on over the course of the week, each battling it out for the awards. The festival will welcome new groups, Model Box, Amigos TG and Curtain Call Academy. See www. mermaidartscentre.ie
Lions Appeal The Arklow Lions Club would like to extend sincere thanks to all who contributed to their Christmas appeal in 2014. The club wish to thank Tesco, Supervalu and Dunnes Stores where the food appeal was held and all those who bought raffle tickets. Also a big thanks to all the swimmers who took part in the Stephen’s Day charity swim.
Disability Action Disability Action Greystones: Together will be meeting at Shoreline Leisure Centre at 7pm on January 21 to help further Greystones’ ambition to become a Gold Star Town. All are welcome to attend the meeting and help with this wonderful initiative.
Cheers ... rocker Hozier (centre) dropped in to taste Wicklow Wolf beer and visit the co-founders Quincey Fennelly and Simon Lynch at the brewery in Bray recently By Michelle McGlynn Groove Festival is back and ready to rock your summer. The festival have announced that they will return to Kilruddery House and Gardens on July 4 and 5. Anticipation is already building for the announcement of the line-up which organisers have hinted will happen around March. The festival have a track record of bringing top acts to Kilruddery and was nominated for the Festival Awards Europe in 2014 in the ‘Best
Small Festival’ category. Last summer’s stellar weekend saw Paloma Faith and David Gray headlining as well as the addition of the Harbour Bar Stage. The packed out festival was a huge success as evidenced by Groove’s nominations in both the European Festival Awards and the Irish Festival Awards. The announcement of Groove 2015 had Facebook buzzing as veterans began planning for their third year and holidays were scheduled around the festival. The line-up wishlist from
fans ranges from AC/DC to George Ezra and of course local lad Hozier got a couple of mentions. Groove Festival was first established in 2013 and hit the ground running with a roster that included James Morrison, Imelda May, Damien Dempsey and Gavin James. The family-friendly festival combines music, food and activites to create an energetic and fun atmosphere for a weekend that everyone can enjoy. So mark the date in your diary because this weekend is going to rock.
news in brief Roads allocation The National Roads Authority (NRA) have allocated €1,098,802 for both improvement and maintenance works on Wicklow roads and have also designated sections of the N11 as motorway.
Coastcare group Bray Coastcare Group are asking volunteers to keep an eye on the below areas for litter, graffiti or in need of general maintenance and to let them know so they can make plans for their next action day. The areas to be monitored are: Bray Harbour, Bray Seafront, Lower and Upper Bray Head, the Cliff Walk, Naylors Cove and Raheen Car Park.
JANUARY LIVE LOUNGE
Illustrated talk
Thu 15: Des Hopkins Jazz Band (Dixieland Jazz) Fri 16: Pete Pamf (Funk) Sat 17: Richard Farrell & The Last Tribe (Blues/Folk) Sun 18: Dermot Byrne (Delta Blues) Thu 22: Hustle (Funk & Soul) Fri 23: The Burning Effigies (Funk, Afrobeat) Sat 24: Soul Purpose (Soul) Sun 25: The Louisiana 6 (Skiffle)
f: /theharbourbarbray
t:@theharbour_bar
BirdWatch Ireland Wicklow will be holding an illustrated talk on surveys by Niall Keogh (offshore surveyor) called Bring Me That Horizon: seabirds and cetaceans in Irish offshore waters. The talk will be held in the Glenview Hotel, Glen of the Downs at 8pm.
Donnelly: I am not joining new Ross alliance By Michelle McGlynn
STEPHEN Donnelly is not joining any alliance of Independents, the Wicklow and East Carlow TD has told the Wicklow Voice. The New Year kicked off with rumours that he may be joining the Shane Ross/Michael Fitzmaurice alliance but this has been refuted by the Greystones resident and, although there have been conversations have been had between Donnelly and fellow TDs, he insists that he is not currently part of any alliance. “Recently, I have had several conversations with TDs involved in the Independent Alliance to explore the possibilities for such a movement,” he told the Wicklow Voice. “At this stage I have concluded that there isn’t sufficient common ground for me to be involved, but I wish them luck in their endeavours.” According to Donnelly, the TDs claimed to have formed the alliance have never all sat down in a room together with that topic on the agenda and his announcement is a blow to the aspirations of Ross to negotiate a bargaining position ahead of the formation of the next Government. Ross, who is also a Wicklow resident but a TD for Dublin South, recently announced he had spoken to nine Independents, including Donnelly, regarding an alliance. However, Donnelly says
his constituents know where he stands and that is sufficient. “The type of movement I would be interested in being a part of would be cohesive enough to negotiate and implement a credible programme for Government,” Donnelly continued. “It would be based on progressive social democratic principles, similar to the Nordic model. And it would champion meaningful change of local and national politics.” He went on to say that there is currently no “parliamentary democracy” in Ireland because “if you ever speak out of turn, you’re out. This needs to change”. Although he is frustrated with the system as it stands, Donnelly said he is determined to turn that frustration into something positive and believes that there is “a growing demand in Ireland for a modern, progressive, social democratic movement. “As public trust in politics falls ever lower, there is more and more demand for meaningful change to the political system. “I will continue to push for that change, either as an independent TD as I do now, or as part of a new political movement.” When broached about the subject of Lucinda Creighton’s Reboot Ireland, he added: “I respect anybody who stands up and tries to make a difference. “When they have put their ideas out there, then I can comment.”
Change to bus routes By Michelle McGlynn
The proposal to terminate the 145 bus route at Ballywaltrim has been amended. From January 18, the 145 will continue to serve Kilmacanogue but in a reduced capacity (see ad on page 23). The bus will run from Kilmacanogue to the city centre at 7.30am while four buses will depart UCD for Kilmacanogue at 3.45pm, 4pm, 5.30pm and 5.40pm during the college term. Plans to extend the 45A from
Ballywaltrim to Kilmacanogue remain unchanged. The 145 route will also be re-routed in the city due to Luas works. The 145 will operate on its current route to Dawson Street and instead of taking a left onto Nassau Street, it will turn right onto Nassau Street and continue to South Leinster Street, Lincoln Place, Westland Row, Pearse Street, College Street to Westmoreland Street where it will return to the current route. All changes will come into effect from January 18.
NEWS |5
January 15 2015 wicklowvoice.ie
wicklow people in pictures
Finn Murry (1) and Frieda Quinn in the playground on Bray Seafront (all pix Oisin McFarlandSmith unless otherwise stated)
Mary O’Callaghan East Glendalough School, Wicklow Town and Fionnuala Darcy, Sandyford Wellness Centre, at the Guidance Counsellor Seminar at Griffith College. Photo Chris Bellew / Copyright Fennell Photography 2014
Fiona Grogan and Rachael Donohue out and about on Greystones Main Street
With recent temperatures reaching freezing point, Grace Delaney from Arklow was making sure her ears were not feeling the cold (pic Yvette O Beirne)
Emily, Sallyann and Patrick Murray enjoy a stroll in Greystones
Lucie (2), Jeni and Brian McCarthy out and about in Bray
Jacqui Bolger and Keelin Vickers Bolger (5) in Wicklow Town
Tina O Sullivan General Manager of the Arklow Bay Hotel pictured recently during their wedding showcase at the hotel to mark the launch of their new packages for 2015. (pic Yvette O Beirne) See pages 14-19.
6| NEWS
wicklowvoice.ie January 15 2015
Touch of Orient on way here
By Cianan Brennan
Wicklow is renowned as the Garden County, and its spectacular gardens are what are attracting a unique delegation to
the county for three days from January 19. A group of Chinese horticultural students will be coming to stay for three days as part of an initiative organised by former
TD Cyprian Brady as part of his work with the Council for Irish Chinese Co-Operation (CICC). The CICC, which was formed in 2009, was set up as a platform to promote and facilitate
business, educational and cultural links between Ireland and China. The visiting students, currently based in Dublin, hail from Hainan, China’s smallest and most southerly province located in the South China Sea. They will be taking in the world-famous gardens at Mount Usher, Powerscourt and Kilmacurragh House. As recently as July the gardens at Powerscourt were voted the third best in the world by National Geographic Magazine. “This is a great opportunity for Wicklow to showcase itself to the Chinese market,” Chairman of Wicklow Tourism Noel Keyes told the Wicklow Voice. “We should be delighted that this delegation has chosen the Garden County to visit to further its studies and I look forward to welcoming them to Wicklow. “China is now the largest global tourism market and we hope to build further and continue positive relations with friends from the Far East.” Brady, a semi-retired former Senator and TD and brother of former Dublin Lord Mayor Royston, is very positive about the work of the CICC.
“I’ve been working with the Council for four years now and it has been a very rewarding experience,” he says. “I’ve been to China several times now and we’ve facilitated their delegations coming the other way also.” “The gardens we’ll be visiting next week are renowned from both a horticultural and tourism point of view so there’s much to learn.” The CICC visit is the second high-profile Chinese visit to Wicklow in the last 12 months. In June the First Secretary of China’s ruling Communist party Liu Yunshan visited beef farms around Newtownmountkennedy as part of a junket organised by the Minister for Agriculture seeking to foster trade links between the two countries. “This particular trip is purely for research and study,” says Brady. “There are two specific areas for next week’s trip aside from the horticultural visits.” “The group will be meeting with the Heritage Council specifically to talk about tourism in Wicklow, and a separate meeting with Coillte (the state forestry commission) in Newtownmountkennedy is planned also.”
news in brief 60th drama fest The 60th Wicklow ICA Drama festival will be held in Glenealy Village Hall on January 21, and from January 23 to 25. Tickets are available at the door for €10/€8 concession. For details call 087 9833935.
Creative expo Showcase - Ireland’s Creative Expo returns to the RDS, Dublin from January 18 to 21. The fair is a key platform for Irish designers, manufacturers and craftspeople in reaching out to Irish and international buyers, in order to grow and expand their business. There are 24 exhibitors from Wicklow taking part in this year’s Expo.
SWWAG meeting South Wicklow Wind Action Group will be holding a public meeting on January 16 at 8pm in Lawless Hotel, Aughrim. The meeting was organised due to the levels of local enquiries from people seeking advice and assistance regarding the Ballymanus Industrial Wind Turbine planning application.
January 15 2015 wicklowvoice.ie
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8 | NEWS wicklowvoice.ie January 15 2015
Boost for jobs as Strand Hotel changes hands By Michelle McGlynn
The Wicklow hotel sector is set for a boost in 2015 as three iconic hotels are planning multimillion euro revamps leading to a spin-off of job creation. The Strand Hotel in Bray was recently purchased by a wellknown local family and there are plans in place to revamp the premises. The restaurant and lounge will remain but will undergo some work in order to modernise the establishment. The McGettigan Group who bought the Royal Hotel in Bray towards the end of last year have announced plans to open a McGetttigan’s pub on the site. Meanwhile, there will be 50 jobs created if the proposed plans for the La Touche Hotel property go ahead, a spokesperson for New Generation Homes has confirmed to the Wicklow
Voice. The Strand Hotel recently changed hands after 37 years in the Fitzsimons family and is best known as the home of one of Ireland’s best loved writers, Oscar Wilde and his family. Barry Fitzsimons told the Wicklow Voice that he is delighted the Strand has passed on to another local family. “While we are sad to see our years at the Strand come to an end, we are happy for a new family to come in and create their own memories here. “The place will remain family and tourist friendly and I have been told that the new owners will continue the Wilde at the Strand events,” Barry said. “Our family has loved every moment of our time here, it has been a great adventure. “We would like to wish the new owners the very best of luck for the future and express our gratitude to all our custom-
ers and friends who supported us over the years,” Barry said as he fondly reflected on his time at the hotel. Meanwhile Bray will join New York, Singapore and Jakarta in becoming the location of a new McGettigan’s Pub as part of a 50-pub global expansion announced by Dennis McGettigan. The family already have pubs and hotels in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Fujairah, Limerick and Donegal. Meanwhile, an application has been made for the former site of the La Touche hotels for 26 three and four-bedroom houses as well as 58 parking spaces and some publicly owned space to include seats, a play area and lawn planting has been submitted. The plans were lodged by a company called Kavcre La Touche Limited, owned by Arklow man Greg Kavanagh and his partner Patrick Crean.
news in brief Funds for Luca
There will be a bag pack in Tesco, Greystones on January 16, 17 and 18 to raise funds for Luca Keogh (3) from Newtown. Luca is learning to cope with Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus and the funds will pay for therapy.
Merrill open weekend
Ronnie Bolger and Maria Curran wrap up warm on the seafront in Bray
GAA president passes away
By Michelle McGlynn
The people of Wicklow are mourning the loss of Tom Walsh, President of Bray Emmets GAA, who passed away suddenly following a short illness on January 12. Members of Bray Emmets and the wider community have extended their deepest sympathies to Tom’s family. Tom was beloved husband of the late Elizabeth, a devoted father to his two daughters, Ciara and Emer, and a loving grandfather to Iarla. He will be sadly missed by his family and his
many friends, especially those from the world of GAA. Tom, who was formerly of Waterford City, was an avid sportsman, as well as being President of Bray Emmets was Past President of the Irish Handball Council. He was an active and lifelong member of the Bray club and his absence will be felt for a long time to come. As a mark of respect Bray Emmets have deferred the launch of Strictly Bray Emmets which will now take place on January 21 at 8pm in The Martello.
The Merrill Leisure Club, Royal Hotel in Bray will hold an open weekend from January 23 to 25. There is an open invitation to visit the leisure club and try their facilities on a complimentary basis throughout the weekend.
East Coast Cyclones Wicklow’s roller derby team East Coast Cyclones are recruiting new members at the Ballywaltrim Community Centre at 8pm on February 7.
School musical Glebe National School will be performing When You Wish Upon a Star on January 17 at 7pm in Fatama Hall, Dominican College, Wicklow. The children have been hard at work and it is sure to be a great show. Tickets: adult €10 and children €5.
January 15 2015 wicklowvoice.ie
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10 | OPINION
opinion&comment
The CAO is not the be all and end all
W
hile in many cases students, schools and parents often see the CAO as the ‘be all and end all’ for those seeking third level education, nothing could be further from the truth. Over recent years many new avenues have opened up to students to enable them pursue their dream career via a different route. Further Education offers fabulous opportunities, not only for those looking for additional skills or hoping to go directly into employment, but also as an alternative route on to a college course in a university or institute of technology in Ireland or abroad. The buzz word these days is ‘progression’. With the country still in recession – staying in education has become a necessary option. Many PLC/FE courses lead to QQI (FETAC) Level 5 and 6 awards, and in some cases students can progress with this award via The Higher Education Links Scheme or The Pilot Scheme to a third level course in a variety of higher education institutions including universities, institutes of technology and even private colleges. This year there will be 457 courses on the CAO that will accept any PLC qualification for entry in 2015. The Higher Education Links Scheme facilitates progression to specific third level programmes whilst the Pilot Scheme allows you to compete for CAO places alongside leaving certificate students. Most Higher Level Institutes now reserve a quota of places for FETAC Award holders. The scoring system under the pilot scheme enables a FETAC award holder to achieve up to a maximum of 400 CAO points. Progression to third level from further education can be either through the CAO into first year or through advanced entry to the second year of that programme. For example, if you want to study Veterinary Nursing in UCD (DN310), to give yourself a fallback should something go wrong in the Leaving Cert, you could do a one-year post- Leaving Cert (PLC) course in Applied Science – Animal Care (5M2768) in Bray Institute of Further Education. If you achieve five distinctions in this course with the relevant modules, you may be eligible for one of the places reserved on that UCD course for FETAC (Further Education and Training Awards Council) applicants. The simplest way to check the progres-
sion routes for all PLC courses is using the search tools on careersportal.ie. On the site, click the “what to study” tab on the main toolbar for search tools on CAO and PLC courses. Choose the “FETAC Progression Routes” option, key in the FETAC award code and the list of degree courses linked to that award will be listed. Many students who complete a one-year level 6 programme have been successful in gaining advanced entry to year two of a relevant programme in The Institutes of Technology. For example, if you want to study Business Studies in IADT (DL823) but did not get enough points in the Leaving Certificate (285 in 2014), you could do a one-year post-Leaving Cert (PLC) level 6 course in Management (6M4587) in Bray Institute of Further Education and gain direct entry into the second year of that same degree in IADT. Some FE colleges even have individual progression agreements with their local IT, affording students access to a specific number of reserved places. PLC colleges also offer programmes validated by external bodies such as BTEC higher national diplomas. They are two year programmes. On completion of the course, the student can progress to the final year of an honours Degree Programme in Ireland or Britain. Bray Institute offers a number of BTEC higher national diplomas in the Art, Design, Media & Performing Arts. Further education courses are open to those with a Leaving Certificate or an equivalent qualification. It is recommended that students check individual course entry requirements. FE courses are also open to mature students subject to Leaving Certificate standard of education or suitable life/work experience. It is important to keep in mind that some of the most popular courses fill up by April each year. PLC courses generally require that you attend for an interview.
Gabriel Allen is Deputy Principal of Bray Institute of Further Education. Bray Institute will be holding a Career / Open day on Friday 23rd January from 10am to 4pm. Potential students, parents, career guidance teachers will have the opportunity to speak to the staff. Workshops and demonstrations will run throughout the day and visitors can speak to students and get their views on the courses. Alternatively, you can call the Institute any day during office hours on 01-2829668 or log on to www.bife.ie
“T
We too often agonise over big problems which cannot readily be solved, while ignoring smaller issues that can be tackled. We may not be able to cure the major problems of the health service but we could make a start with the minor ones
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 Gabriel Allen with Michael Wolsey
Dispatches from A&E battle front he drama in our accident and emergency departments has a cast which the public divides into heroes, villains and victims. The victims are the unfortunate patients and the villains are the politicians who starve hospitals of cash. The heroes are the overworked medical staff. Not once amid the many recent complaints did I hear a word of criticism directed at the doctors or nurses. “They seem to be doing the work of 20 or 30 people,” one woman whose elderly father had been waiting for hours on a trolley at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital in Drogheda told RTE news. There is a fourth set of characters who rarely get mentioned. They are the administrators who preside over a system in which medical professionals appear to be doing the work of 20 or 30 people. Lack of funding adds to their problems but does not entirely explain them. Irish hospitals are badly run for reasons that are not all down to money. They are disorganised with unco-ordinated waiting lists, antiquated filing systems and poor record-keeping. My most recent experience was a few months ago when I brought a close relative to that same accident and emergency department in Drogheda. She had suffered a surprise seizure, a brief loss of consciousness brought on, perhaps, by a fall a few weeks earlier. It was a harrowing visit and I wrote about it here at the time. In light of the latest crisis, some of what I wrote is worth repeating. The A&E department in Drogheda was like a scene from the Crimean War, lacking only Florence Nightingale. And Ms Nightingale, I’m sure, would have organised things better. About 100 people were milling around the entrance. Less than a third of these were patients and it would have helped matters if half the non-patients had been sent packing. People were milling around because they were unsure how or when their treatment might proceed. They would not know this until they had been seen by a triage nurse - or rather the triage nurse, for there was only one on duty. This created a logjam, made worse by the fact that the nurse would regularly leave her station and head off with a patient to find a trolley, or a doctor, or the x-ray unit. When my relative finally made her way out of the packed reception area she ended up on the inevitable trolley. ‘You could do with a pillow there,’ said a passing nurse. And indeed she could. But, despite several requests, she never got one. She did get a blanket which was more than some other patients could manage. The hospital corridors were full of trollies. Most patients had one or more friends with them, so the place was packed. These friends would come and
go, bringing water, and sometimes food, adding to the Crimea-like picture of chaos. It is said the health service needs more staff. I’m sure it does. But on that night it was hard to see how any more staff could have been fitted in. This is not an exaggeration. There was scarcely room to move. Five or six medical people spoke to my relative over the course of the next few hours. They all asked her pretty much the same questions and not one of them ever completed the conversation before being called away to deal with someone else. Twice she was asked if she was on any medication. Twice she replied that she was but couldn’t remember the names of the drugs. She pointed out that she had been in the hospital after the recent fall and they had her records. Twice she was told that the staff couldn’t access records at night. None of these problems I have listed requires money to fix. They require management. The staff were all working extremely hard in very trying conditions but they were not working to good effect. There was, as always, a shortage of beds. But it was hours before anyone diagnosed my relative as even being in need of a bed. There were three receptionists on duty that night. Some of their money would have been better spent on employing a second triage nurse. There were more attendants in the hospital’s car park than in A&E. Some of them could have been used to reduce the excessive number of friends accompanying the patients. And doctors and nurses should all have been instructed that, except in a dire emergency, they were not to turn to a second patient until they had finished with the first. We too often agonise over big problems which cannot readily be solved, while ignoring smaller issues that can be tackled. We may not be able to cure the major problems of the health service but we could make a start with the minor ones. Maybe we can’t afford more surgeons but we can afford pillows and blankets. Their shortage is not the fault of politicians, patients or health staff. It is a disgraceful failure of management.
Michael Wolsey is a former deputy editor of the Irish Independent, and sat on the judging panel for the National Newspaper of Ireland Journalism Awards.
OPINION| 11
January 15 2015 wicklowvoice.ie
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Have you got a story? Then email thecaptain@wicklowvoice.ie
Why I am running as an Independent
I
will contest the next General Election as an Independent candidate as I believe that more than ever people are keen to support candidates who will follow through on their stated policies and who will not be bound by a party whip. Many constituents have told me that the main reason they will not support any of the mainstream parties in the next election is that the party candidates will promise literally anything to get into power but as soon as they are safely installed in Government, their commitments turn to dust. In the Election of 2011, Fine Gael and Labour candidates were elected on policies which promised, among other measures, to protect child benefit, to refuse any further finance to bailed out banks and to protect vulnerable people in our society. In fact, those very same candidates, who are now Fine Gael and Labour TDs,supported a Government which deliberately broke those commitments and scarcely explained their actions not to mention apologised for their betrayal. This betrayal occurred simply because their party’s need for power overwhelmed all other
subsidies to private landlords, with permanent insecurity for those who are not allocated a Council house. It is incredible that national politicians representing us have been so silent on this most fundamental issue of human rights. I ask for your trust and support in the next election, whenever it comes, and I will, in return, give you every ounce of my energy, commitment and service to ensure that you and your loved ones can live a life of basic contentment now with a future for your children and security for your older years.
Joe Behan considerations and the people’s needs were ignored. I passionately believe in protecting the young and older people from the underhand and savage attacks by this Government. In the past three years, older people have been hit time after time with cuts to their income and entitlements and only last week came the news that Government officials were discussing the option of cutting old age and widows pensions in the recent Budget. Thankfully, this hasn’t happened yet but it is clear that older people are once again in the firing line and I for one will resist to the bitter end any further attempt to penalise and target the very people who built up this nation, who went without material comforts to provide for their families and who are entitled now to live out the
remainder of their lives in peace and contentment. Similarly, as a school principal, I see the effect of continuing austerity on the education of our young people at all levels. Class sizes are increasing, supports for students with special educational needs are continually cut and school funding is now so low that schools rely
heavily on the fundraising and voluntary donations of already hard pressed parents. I don’t believe that is what parents wish for their children and I don’t believe this is the kind of society the Irish people want. Many families are now stressed beyond breaking point because of the housing shortage
in our county and I have seen first-hand the conditions of overcrowding, uncertainty and fear which this crisis is causing. The Government says it has a solution but the shocking truth is that their solution means the construction of a small number of council houses and the rest of the housing necessary will be provided by way of enormous
Joe Behan was elected as an Independent Councillor to Wicklow County Council in May 2014. He was a member of Dáil Éireann from May 2007 to February 2011, resigned from Fianna Fail in October 2008 over the decision to remove automatic medical cards for people over 70 and the decision to increase class sizes in schools. He was a member of Wicklow County Council from June 1991 to May 2007, Bray Town Council from May 1985 to May 2007 and is also Principal of St Fergal’s Senior NS, Bray.
new party will be running candidates in every constituency in the next general election. What will be interesting to see is whether many like-minded independents come on board and agree to run for the new entity, whether there are any TDs jumping ship from the government parties to join their erstwhile Junior Minister and also where it positions itself on the political spectrum. Too much to the centre and it will be eating off the same plate as Fianna Fail and Fine Gael, but left-of-centre and it could give Sinn Fein some problems in hoovering up the people-power vote. There is change in the political order afoot all over Europe. A lot of right-wing parties are gaining more opinion-poll share in the wealthier EU countries, and in the bailout countries (Greece, Spain and Ireland to name but three) there is a decided move to the left. It’s easy to see where this polaristion has come from. The
wealthier countries feel that their prosperity and growth has been hampered by having to bail-out the likes of us, and people in the bailout countries feel that after five or six years of austerity enough is enough and the people are asserting themselves, and asserting themselves quite strongly. All of this will present ongoing challenges for the EU as well as resulting in political redrafting locally. To look at our own situation, when the bailout happened and we were facing years of austerity, people just accepted this. They were like rabbits caught in the headlights. Sinn Fein weren’t really ready to do much at the time, mumbling about burning the bondholders and using the national pension reserve (I hope they have progressed to sounder economic policies if they get into power next year) to solve everything. Now people have shaken themselves out of the daze and are tired of the tough times, tired of
being brainwashed into thinking that ‘’barely surviving is the new thriving’’. They have starting to ask questions. Sinn Fein have developed into a sleek political force that has captured the mood of the people perfectly. It will be interesting to see what Lucinda can do. Lucinda and Syriza aside, another political story (of sorts) at the moment is the airing of the ‘’Charlie’’ drama on RTE television over three Sundays in January. The programme deals with Charlie Haughey’s tenure as leader of Fianna Fail, as leader-in-waiting then either Taoiseach or Opposition leader for the entirety of the 1980’s and into the 1990’s. The episodes that have aired so far have had mixed reviews but I’ve thoroughly enjoyed it. Having lived through these times and read about Haughey in detail, I found the drama has captured the essence of Haughey particularly well. In a roundabout way the mak-
ing and airing of the drama has rehabilitated Haughey’s legacy somewhat, which is a good thing I suppose. When he left office and his financial shenanigans were exposed he was almost airbrushed from history. It should be remembered that in the Lemass and Lynch administrations he was a reforming and successful cabinet minister in a range of briefs that included Health, Gaeltacht, Justice, Agriculture, Finance and Social Welfare. As Taoiseach he subscribed to the old tribal adage that the leader has to fatten himself up so he can look after his people. Ultimately this flaw of character compromised his ability to do good as we know, but he did some early good work on the Northern Ireland issue, was progressive on Europe and as I’ve been reading about recently played a key role in allowing German re-unification occur. One thing is for sure, we will never see his like again!
Lauren McKeon and Caitlin Griffey from Dominican College, Wicklow with their project ‘Development of a solar powered sterilisation device for use in rural health clinics in less developed countries’ at the BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition 2015
Political change is coming to us all
P
olitics. Is it a gimmick for those who want to buy into the idea that things will get better, or is it really of the people and for the people? Lucinda Creighton’s press conference at the start of the year, where she unveiled (along with Eddie Hobbs) her (as yet untitled) new political party, at the very least broke the first major political story of 2015. The last major one of 2014 had been more of an international political story, with the news that a snap general election will be held in Greece on January 25, with the leftist Syriza party well positioned to win. The two stories are linked. With Syriza likely to seriously challenge for power this time out in Greece, Spanish elections are due at the end of 2015 and the odds are on the
Brian Quigley similarly-styled (to Syriza) people-power, leftist Podemos (which translates as ‘We Can’) coming from nowhere to possibly winning. I say coming from nowhere because at the start of 2014 Podemos didn’t exist (they were only founded in early 2014 by the writer and academic Pablo Iglesias). Enter Lucinda Creighton in early 2015 with a new political party in Ireland, another country undergoing a seismic shift in the old political order. At the January 2 press conference it was announced that the
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12 | WHAT’S HOT
with Michelle McGlynn info@wicklowvoice.ie
wicklowvoice.ie January 15 2015
beauty idea of the week Zero One salon Unit 5, Watson and Johnson Centre, Church Road, Greystones, 01 2870002 Zero One is a brand new luxury salon that has opened in Greystones and it is everything you have ever wanted from a salon. It is a modern salon with a relaxed atmosphere and the staff could not be friendlier. Each member has been trained to the highest standard and really take the time to listen to exactly what it is the client wants to ensure that you leave 100% satisfied and feeling 100% gorgeous. They offer cuts, blow dries, organic treatments and styling for any occasion. Colouring is done using incredibly nourishing Aveda products. Zero One extension experts are on hand to transform your hair using celebrity-favourite Great Lengths extensions. The salon already counts top model and fiancée of heart throb Jack Reynor, Madeline Mulqueen as a fan. Zero One offers a wide range of nail and beauty treatments including HD Brows, Mink Lashes and organic manicures. For your chance to redeem €15 off any colour service, be sure to mention the Wicklow Voice when booking.
fundraiser of the week Hurry to the Curry Arklow Bay Hotel, Sea Road, Arklow, January 23 Almost 49 years ago, chef Dan Kearon introduced curry dishes to his native Arklow from his travels to foreign shores and the annual “Hurry to the Curry” Lifeboat Fundraising phenomenon was born. This fantastic fundraiser in aid of Arklow RNLI has gone from strength to strength and this year new chef, Anne Lynch Mordaunt has been busy making arrangements to ensure the night is a successful as ever. The culinary masterpieces prepared by Anne and her team of volunteers, range from hot curry dishes, a wonderful array of fresh sea food – prawns, lobster, crab, monkfish, salmon - cold plate meat, vegetarian dishes & salads of all kinds. There are spot prizes galore and some lovely raffle and auction items. Live music will be provided once again by The Groove, followed by DJ Phil Cawley who will keep you dancing till late. There will also be some special guests on the night too. Tickets are only €20 each and are available from Arklow Bay Hotel, Lifeboat Station & Fundraising Committee members, or you can email arklow@rnli.org or phone 0402-32850.
book of the week Surge: New Writing From Ireland
By various authors, with introduction by Frank McGuinness Surge is a unique collection of short stories by new and established talents in Ireland. It showcases 16 previously unpublished short stories, featuring work from new Irish writing talents alongside new offerings from acclaimed and award-winning playwrights and short story writers: Frank McGuinness, Mary Morrissy, Éilís Ní Dhuibhne, Gina Moxley, Darran McCann and Mike McCormack. This unique anthology contains the very best of the next generation of Irish authors. Ten original stories have been selected from the postgraduate creative writing programmes in Trinity College Dublin, UCD, UCC, UCG and Queen’s University Belfast. Themes of aging, death, old wounds and new beginnings link the stories, from sons who refuse to lay their mother to rest, to a duaghter seeking revenge on an abusive father, to the voices of dead relations in Moscow’s Red Square. “In every successful short story you can find, among delicate shards of glass, that solid brick, threatening, wonderful, ready to propel itself, if necessary, into one’s imagination,” writes Frank McGuinness in his introduction.
TV SHOW of the week Red Rock
TV3, Wednesdays and Thursdays, 8.30pm The hotly anticipated and much talked about TV3 soap, Red Rock has finally hit our screens. If curiosity hasn’t gotten the best of you yet then it’s about time you got on board and checked it out. TV3’s attempt to rival the established soaps has gotten off to a fantastic start as people cannot stop raving about it. It sets itself apart from the rest as it contains familiar elements of police procedurals but in a soap format. Based
exhibition of the week Sanctum Signal Arts Centre, 1 Albert Avenue, Bray, January 19-February 1 Signal Arts Centre is delighted to be exhibiting works by talented artist Lorna Watkins. Her background is in textile design but has spent the past few years working in fine art. Her practice is evolving and currently the work is expressive and responsive. She tends to use a variety of techniques; drawing, painting, encaustic, photography and print. Life drawing is hugely important to her practice and meditates on “our internal landscape”. A lot of the work comes from personal experience with pain and the pain of others which she empathises with. Memories from conversations overheard or images seen on social media form the basis for new ideas in a body of work. Pain is often used as a commodity with the constant bombardment of traumatic imagery on social media and she is reacting against that using a variety of media..
around a busy Dublin Garda station in a fictional coastal town, Red Rock will chart the life and dramas of a community about to be enveloped by a feud through the eyes of those who police it. With no love lost between the two clans, audiences will bear witness as a bitter feud is reignited between the two families, creating serious repercussions for all those living in the town. Each episode will be a mix of ‘crime of the week’ stories and on-going serial arcs, following principle characters in both their professional and personal lives.
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WHAT’S HOT| 13
January 15 2015 wicklowvoice.ie
MOVIE of the week Whiplash Gaiety Cinema, Arklow There has been a huge buzz surrounding this film and many are already tipping it as one of the films of 2015. An ambitious jazz drummer is pushed to greatness by a monstrous mentor in this dazzling drama. Nineteen-year-old drummer Andrew Neyman (Miles Teller) is determined not to settle for mediocrity. He wants to become one of the jazz greats, like his idol Buddy Rich. He wins a place at America’s top music academy, where Terence Fletcher (J.K. Simmons) is in charge of the leading jazz ensemble. Andrew’s talents soon catch this star’s instructor’s attention. But Fletcher is a hard, cruel, bullying taskmaster who drives his competitive students ruthlessly towards perfection. This blistering drama has already won the Grand Jury Prize and the Audience Award at this year’s Sundance Film Festival and Simmons won a Golden Globe for his performance. The phenomenal performances from the two lead actors are at the core of the film’s success. This is one of the best roles character actor J.K. Simmons has ever had, while Miles Teller seizes his breakthrough moment.
HOROSCOPES with Siobhan Moore Whelan
event of the week Behind the Scenes at Mermaid Mermaid Arts Centre, Main Street, Bray, January 24 Mermaid Arts Centre are opening up their doors to the community so that you can see what happens on a day-to-day basis in the theatre and give you a unique opportunity to meet their artists in residence. They will give two back-stage tours with the Technical Manager at 1pm and 6pm. You will have access all areas, dressing room, back stage and control room. The tours are free but booking is advised. The artists in residence
are The Company, an ensemble of three theatre makers; Jose (Miguel Jimenez), Rob (McDermott), and Nyree (Yergainharsian). The Company are researching and developing a new theatre piece about Nyree’s sister, Sona. In 2012 Sona was diagnosed with stage 2A Nodular Sclerosing Hodgkins Lymphoma, a rare cancer of the blood that took active residence in her for almost two years and quietly has her body for the rest of her life. The Company will give a showing of their work in progress at 6.30pm – seats are free but should be reserved. Contact 01 2724030 to book your place. Pictured are The Company.
fitness idea of the week
New year, new you! Discount Supplements are here to help you achieve your goals. Here are a few tips to get you started. Eat Smart: Most foods that advertise low fat contain a lot of sugar. Fat doesn’t make you fat it’s usually a high intake of sugar. Sugar causes your insulin levels to rise which causes fat storage. When eating carbohydrates try to get complex, high-fibre carbohydrates like oats, brown rice and sweet potato. Avoid sweets, fizzy drinks, bread, pasta and highly processed carbohydrates. As a rough guide don’t eat more than 1g of carbs per pound of body weight. Weight Training: Weight training three-four days a week is great for keeping your metabolism high so you can continue to lose fat at a steady pace. Keep sessions short and intense with rest periods up to one minute and the session no longer than an hour. Weight training will give you that toned look. HIIT Cardio: Perform HIIT (high intensity interval training) two-three times a week, preferably on alternate days to your weight training or after weight training to burn fat. This is better than long periods of low impact cardio because it burns less muscle, takes less time and it’s harder for your body to adapt so it will be more effective over time.
The Classic Beatles The Harbour Bar, Bray Seafront, January 19 When The Classic Beatles roll into town they bring their Magical Mystery Tour, the Colour of the 60’s and the unmistakable sound of The Biggest Band the world has ever seen with hits spanning generations from “I wanna Hold Your Hand” to “Hey Jude”. With note
The top Irish stand-up and TV comic returns with his brand new show, chock full of tales of mischief and mayhem. Neil casts an acerbic eye over his recent adventures and offers free life tips such as how not to deliver a letter and appropriate machine gun usage. Described by The Scotsman as “a master”, Delamere is renowned for his on-stage banter and quick-witted, well-observed yarns and previous tours and international appearances – including the Melbourne International Comedy Festival, Edinburgh Fringe Festival and the Montreal Just For Laughs Festival – have been a sell-out. Expect The Fresh Prince of Delamere to deliver the same powerhouse performance from the star of RTÉ’s The Panel, 2nd Republic, BBC’sThe Blame Game, Fighting Talk and Michael McIntyre’s Comedy Roadshow.
Gemini- 2,9,20,31,40,41 Very lively and effervescent year lies ahead..busy busy busy! Health in general will improve dramatically. Cancer-7,9,13,16,29,44 2015 offers you a stress free year and opens many new doors; choose wisely. Time for you to regain your equilibrium.
Virgo-3,10,15,25,27,34 Dust off your good suit as a job that you have been waiting for is just around the corner Virgo. 2015 look out Virgo is here! Libra-11,15,19,21,37,31 New beginnings: stop looking backwards Libra and allow something new enter your life. Let old grievances go and have fun.
GIG of the week
Neil Delamere: The Fresh Prince of Delamere Arklow Bay Hotel, Sea Road, Arklow, January 29
Taurus-2,7,19,25,23,30 Venus, the planet of love, finds its way to you and the universe will conspire to fill your heart with joy and new opportunities.
Leo-4,24,28,30,33,42 Alive and kicking Leo; 2015 has you bouncing about full of new found energy and love.
Discount Supplements D3 Network Business Park, Kilcoole, 01 2819284
comedy gig of the week
Aries-1,4,18,21,43,44 Great new year for you, embrace the world! Health improves dramatically & you will be bursting with life and expectation.
perfect renditions of the Fab 4’s ultimate collection, it’s easy to understand why The Classic Beatles have worked with Sir George Martin, boast Queen Elizabeth among their clients and continue to thrill audiences around the world, most recently Dubai to ring in the New Year 2015 celebrations. Don’t miss your chance to see them for yourself at The Harbour Bar.
Scorpio-6,14,18,26,38,39 2015 is full of surprises in every area of your life. One exciting year lies ahead for you Scorpio - go with it! Sagittarius-11,15,16,19,32,42 Power and influence shines for Sagittarius in 2015. Everything falls into place and with it brings great success. Capricorn-5,6,23,22,26,49 2015 is about family, friendship and harmony. Enjoy a year that will bring new additions to your family and open up your social life. Aquarius-8,9,18,25,28,32 The New Year brings you an opportunity for a new start and travel is on the cards. This may be work related or a retirement. Pisces-2,4,10,16,36,38 2015 a profitable period ahead; excellent for intellectual work, discussions or negotiations. New beginning in all areas of life. 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.
14 | WEDDINGS
wicklowvoice.ie January 15 2015
Weddings
of Bray
INVITATIONS EVENING INVITATIONS RSVP CARDS THANK YOU CARDS MASS BOOKLETS PLACE NAMES | TABLE PLANS
New selection of wedding craft, accessories, wedding papers and envelopes now in stock
FREE CANVAS
24”x20” (value €70.00) with every €200 spent on wedding stationery 103 Main Street, Bray Ph: 01 5175963
Sandyford | Dun Laoghaire | Nassau Street D2 see reads.ie for all information
WEDDINGS | 15
January 15 2015 wicklowvoice.ie
yourweddingday
Couples spending average of €19,000 on big day out With a raft of Christmas engagements and weddings in Wicklow over the festive period, it appears that couples are now willing to spend more on their nuptials than in previous years. According to the Irish Wedding Survery 2014, undertaken by Mrs2be.ie, the average increase in spend on weddings increased by 2.6% in 2013, in comparison with 2012 with the average wedding costing €19,625. Honeymoons are also high on the priority list in terms of spend with the average honeymoon in 2012 costing even more than the wedding itself, at a price of €24,580. With engagements getting shorter, the average wait before the wedding is now 13 to 18 months, whereas previously it
was over two years. The most popular month to get engaged by far is December, with plans for the big day beginning from January onward. Wicklow newlyweds are the oldest in the country, according the the most recent census by the Central Statistics Office (CSO). Research by the CSO has shown that the average age of Irish brides and grooms has risen over the past number of years. When the numbers were broken down by local authority area, Wicklow men were shown to be the most hesitant about taking the plunge with an average age of 36.5. The results of the research has shown that Irish people are among the oldest in Europe when marrying.
The number of marriages being registered in Ireland had been declining in the past number of years but 2013 saw 21, 770 marriages registered - the highest in six years. It may not be cold feet that is delaying Wicklow’s lovebirds from walking down the aisle, the economic downturn is likely to have played its part. The number of couples cohabiting has continued to rise and according to research by the Economic and Social Research Institute, three-quarters of couples living together go on to get married. The recession means that many couples have not had the money for a wedding. Many couples will have chosen to put off their special day until they were in a secure financial situation and could af-
ford to have the wedding they always wanted. For some the future is looking a bit brighter as we are told the recession has passed and they have been able to plan for their future. It is likely that we will see the number of marriages in Ireland continue to rise but the average age may not change drastically. There are a number of other factors contributing to this trend. Young people today spend a large portion of their twenties focused on their education and trying to establish their careers. The priorities of young people have changed significantly since the 1970s when the average age of newlyweds first began to rise. So fear not, the people of Wicklow have not lost their sense of romance, they have just postponed it for a bit.
Niamh Carroll and Aidan O’Toole who were married on New Year’s Eve in the Powerscourt Hotel. Pic: Alan Rowlette Photography
16 | WEDDINGS
wicklowvoice.ie January 15 2015 Summerhill House Hotel Enniskerry, Co Wicklow, 01 2867928 summerhillhousehotel.com Step back in time and experience the elegance of a bygone era at the Summerhill House Hotel. Let your wedding party enjoy a reception of tea/coffee accompanied by homemade scones. In winter, enjoy the real log fires and candle light ambience, in summer experience the light and airy feeling about this beautiful country house. Later adjourn to the Avondale Suite which can seat between 80 and 250 guests. Enjoy your beautiful wedding meal designed by you from the select menu. Then, enjoy an evening of dancing and an overnight stay in the Bridal Suite. They can cater for civil ceremonies. Menus range from winter packages from €45.00 up to all-inclusive summer packages of €69.00. Visit anytime and remember every Sunday is a Wedding Open Day. Druids Glen Resort Newtownmountkennedy, 01 2870811, druidsglenresort.com
€ The Royal Hotel & Merrill Leisure Club, Main Street, Bray, Co. Wicklow Tel: (01) 2862935 www.royalhotel.ie events@royalhotel.ie
Why tie the knot at Druids Glen Resort? Simple. Because they are absolutely dedicated to your special day. If you have recently become engaged, visit Druids Glen on January 17 from 11am to 5pm to view the Resort set up for your special day. Whether you are planning an intimate civil ceremony or extravagant
wedding, there is something to suit all tastes from inclusive packages to á la carte options. Meet with our Wedding Co-Ordinator, Nessa Kearney, and her dedicated wedding team to discuss your ideas for the big day. Please enquire to arrange a personal appointment. The Royal Hotel Main Street, Bray, 012862935, royalhotel.ie The Royal Hotel are distinguished for their superb food, excellent service, terrific atmosphere, attention to detail and emphasis on customer care. As Wicklow’s premier wedding venue they pride themselves on offering guests personal attention and ensure that every aspect of their wedding is attended to. Their genuine warmth and hospitality helps to add sentiment to your special day. They have a number of packages which guarantee that their mission of character, charm and elegance are combined with value for money. They have a wealth of experience in event management and wedding planning and will leave no stone unturned to ensure that your day lives long in your memory. The Parkview Hotel Newtownmountkennedy, 01 2015603, parkviewhotel.ie The Parkview Hotel take pride in presenting a uniquely
plan your big day personalised service, designing your wedding with you, down to the smallest detail. Their dedicated wedding executive Nicole will be with you all the way, from the first phone call to the red carpet welcome. Floor to ceiling windows, private bar in the Suite with a private terrace make it a first choice for wedding couples. There will be a Wedding Showcase on February 1 from noon until 5pm. Contact Nicole, their dedicated wedding and events executive for enquiries and bookings. Unique in every way, with every detail tailored to your need.
WEDDINGS | 17
January 15 2015 wicklowvoice.ie Friendliness remains at the core of Eternity Jewellery, where we pride ourselves on our customer service and love to share our enthusiasm for exquisite jewellery. Glenview Hotel and Leisure Club Delgany, Glen of the Downs, 01 2740000
Eternity Jewellers Meridian Point, Greystones, 01 2557640 Eternity Jewellery is a leading manufacturer and retailers of bespoke jewellery in Ireland. At Eternity we are passionate about jewellery. We source and retail unusual fine gold and silver jewellery. If you are looking for something a little different, then Eternity is the place to browse. We are experts in custom made engagement rings, wedding bands and eternity rings. Our in-house workshop has been responsible for creating jewellery pieces that draw considerable admiration.
The Glenview Hotel can bring your magical wedding day to life. Experience all that they can offer for your wedding or civil ceremony. With its breathtaking location in scenic Glen of the Downs, the Glenview Hotel and Leisure Club has established itself as one of the leading and most popular wedding hotels on the East Coast of Ireland. Have your ceremony by the waterfall or in the library. Perhaps have your drinks reception in the fully decorated gardens. Or you might choose the beautiful Glenview Suite. Whether you are looking at a large or intimate wedding the Glenview Hotel, set in the majestic Glen of the Downs, is the perfect location to fulfil all your dreams. Ashdown Park Hotel Forest Park, Gorey, Co. Wexford, 053 9480500, ashdownparkhotel.com Walk through the doors of the Ashdown Park Hotel and begin your forever. The Waterford Crystal Chandelier overlooking
the striking staircase provides a luxurious and captivating first impression that continues throughout this elegant hotel. There is no finer place to host your nearest and dearest. With packages starting from just â‚Ź45pp for 100 guests, award winning cuisine, a dedicated Wedding Team, one wedding per day, stunning ceremony locations and abundant photo opportunities, your day is sure to be one that will be remembered forever. Amber Springs Hotel Wexford Road, Gorey. Co. Wexford, 053 9484000, amberspringshotel.ie The Amber Springs Hotel love weddings. They know it is the most important day for both the bride and groom. It is their wish to make it perfect. You will have a dedicated team to ensure all your plans are carried out exactly the way you want. Only an hour from Dublin and minutes from the M11, the Amber Springs Hotel is easily accessible to all your guests. An amazing picturesque setting coupled with the expertise and professionalism of the staff guarantees guests a uniquely memorable experience. Catering for intimate weddings and civil ceremonies of 40 guests in the Mill Suite to lavish celebrations for 400 guests in the newly renovated Corrig Suite.
18 | WEDDINGS
wicklowvoice.ie January 15 2015
my favourite things January marks the start of ‘To Do’ season and with it, all manner of resolutions, goals and promised life-altering regimes are being set in place for the New Year, New You! Dreaming of a fitter, healthier and more balanced lifestyle is usually up there for most of us, however even the best laid resolutions can lose steam and fizzle out. More often than not, we tend to take on far too much and set the bar so high that we’re doomed to fail before we even try, and so, on it continues every year in a vicious cycle of fitness fear. This Spring avoid the same old shady pitfalls, inject some fun and fresh ideas into your health and fitness plan and help shrug off the January blues with these rejuvenating suggestions…
community, a handy timeline to track your progress as well as daily workout activities and videos. Cody App available for iOS and Android
Log On
It’s easy to get your new year off to a healthy start when you feel confident in your kit. Taking cues from the catwalk, the latest crop of high street workout wear is just too stylish to be left in the changing room. Get set to power up your performance for less, and look good doing it, no matter what your workout. Penneys SS15
Take health matters into your own hands, quite literally! Get clued in and stay motivated at the touch of a button on your smart phone by downloading a new techno friend; health and fitness app Cody. Like Facebook for fitness, Cody offers users connections to a fitness
Mix It Up
with Mairéad Vickers info@wicklowvoice.ie ways to get you on the road to your 5-a-day. The ultra-sleek and stylish NutriBullet will change how you think about boring old fruit and veg. NutriBullet Silver, Currys, €109
Gear Up
Whether it’s trying out a new class at the gym, hiring a personal trainer, or joining a group workout session, whatever you do, make sure to keep your exercise routine fun and fresh. Embrace the benefits of body weight training without the gym fee, by incorporating a basic regime of lunges, squats and push-ups into your home workout. Dunnes Stores SS15
WHAT’s HOT
Go Retro
Do It Yourself
With sales of personal juicers rocketing over the Christmas period, this is one craze you’d do well to get on board with for 2015 – the blitz it yourself, at home juice/ smoothie maker phenomenon. As diet is such a major factor when considering your overall health; it makes sense to invest in one of the quickest and easiest
Aim for an element of fun with a nostalgic twist to help keep your new lifestyle choices interesting and diverse. Why not channel your inner kid and re-discover an old hobby of yours? Recapturing childhood joy can be a refreshing and rewarding way to counteract our fast paced, screen-led lives. Hula-hoop ring Tiger Stores €15
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
January 15 2015 wicklowvoice.ie
WEDDINGS| 19
20 | EDUCATION
wicklowvoice.ie January 15 2015
St Peter’s to defend its Maths title By Michelle McGlynn
riding lessons also commence on January 31 at 3pm. Bookings now being taken and with the special introductory offer of five hourly lessons for €150.
approach to learning and teaching maths, the challenge is free and open to pupils from fourth class in primary school to fifth year in secondary school. This year’s competition is already heating up as 200 schools have signed up in the first week. Best of luck to all the students from St. Peter’s who are competing. Meanwhile, here’s a guide to colleges and classes:
St. Peter’s National School, Bray are preparing to defend their hard-fought Leinster Primary Division MATHletes title. The school’s team won their division in the pioneering maths tournament last year when they beat out fierce competition from the rest of the province. The year has just begun but already the St. Peter’s MATHletes have their sights set Maltfield Stud on the All-Ireland MATHletes Ballykeane, Redcross, Co. Championship which will be Wicklow, 087 6800187, www. maltfield.com, maltfieldstud@ held in May. yahoo.co.uk The overall winner will not only hold the coveted title of Maltfield Stud Equestrian MATHletes Challenge AllCentre is one of Wicklow’s Ireland Champion longest established 2015 they will equestrian centres, Special also receive set amongst r over €20, 000 the beautioffer fo ice Vo in prizes. ful Wicklow Wicklow s at Modeling countryside, reader Stud d a GAA-style it provides Maltfielr three tournament lessons in a - €55 fo en’s childr playoff, a safe, highly or lessons ive four-month knowledgeable f r €90 fo challenge will and professional showcase students manner. They are on weekly online leadtaking bookings for their erboards, with top scorers ad- spring term for beginner chilvancing to represent their coun- dren commencing January ty at the provincial playoffs in 31 at 11am. They are offering April. a special introductory rate Based on the Khan Academy to Wicklow Voice readers of
National Learning Network Beechwood Close, Boghall Road, Bray, 086 0432869, 01 2829643, bray@nln.ie
Katie Toomey and Vada Tobin from Avondale Community College, Wicklow with their project ‘An investigation to analyse the percentage of phthalates in CE certified and non-certified loom bands’ at the BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition €55 for three children’s lessons and €90 for five lessons. This provides a saving of more than €6 on each lesson. Children from 5 years are eligible to attend . Hats and back protectors are provided
and lessons involve one hour of horse riding and 15 mins pony care and management. This offer only applies to those who are attending Maltfield Stud for the first time. Adults beginner spring term
Joey left school after his Junior Cert and without experience he found it impossible to get a job. When Joey joined National Learning Network he worked in a restaurant as a catering assistant on a training placement. He completed HACCP, Food Handling and Workplace Safety qualifications. A year on, with his experience and qualifications Joey has a job in the same restaurant with a chance for promotion in six months. Joey says NLN changed his life. The hospitality sector is calling out for staff . The Work Based Training programme at NLN can help start your career in this industry. Begin as a kitchen assistant gaining qualifications and experience over a year. The course size is kept small so that students receive individual attention to help achieve their career goals.
Sallynoggin College of Further Education Pearse Street, Sallynoggin, Dún Laoghaire, Dublin, 01 2852997, www.scfe.ie, reception@scfe.ie Sallynoggin College has a reputation for excellence and many students have achieved international recognition in the areas of fashion, photography and sports among others. There will be an Open Day on January 22, 10am until 2pm - regardless of threatened industrial action. It is the perfect opportunity to learn more about the extensive range of courses on offer and view exhibitions, demonstrations and facilities. College staff and students will be on hand to answer any queries. Information will be available on back to education schemes, grants and funds that are available to students including funds for students with disabilities. All quality assured courses are certified by national and/ or international examination bodies and are designed to maximise the potential for employment and progression to degree programmes. Sallynoggin College welcomes applications from all age groups. Application is free.
EDUCATION| 21
January 15 2015 wicklowvoice.ie
Puzzled?
Find your solution at…
Sallynoggin College of Further Education
OPEN DAY Thursday January 22 2015 nd
Art, Craft & Design - Portfolio Preparation Photography Fashion Design Advanced Fashion Design Fashion Industry Practice Advanced Fashion Industry Practice Commercial Floristry Organic Horticultural Techniques Dance Performing Arts/Theatre, Film & TV Acting Hairdressing and Beauty Specialist
Sallynoggin College of Further Education Pearse Street, Sallynoggin, Dún Laoghaire, Co. Dublin Tel: 01-2852997 Fax: 01-2848437 Email: reception@scfe.ie Website: www.scfe.ie
Leisure Management and Fitness Instructor Personal Trainer and Sports Therapies Childcare Studies Childcare Management Social Studies Advanced Social Studies Youth and Community Studies Tourism, Travel and Airline Studies Tourism, Hotel and Leisure Operations Advanced Travel and Tourism
Coláiste Breisoideachais an Naigín Sráid an Phiarsaigh, An Naigín, Dún Laoghaire, Co. Átha Cliath Fón: 01-2852997 Facs: 01-2848437 R-phost: reception@scfe.ie Idirlíon: www.scfe.ie
View our brochure online
Full Time Courses commence Sept 2015
apply online - www.scfe.ie
22 | LIFESTYLE
wicklowvoice.ie January 15 2015
recipes
Peter Byrne
Head Chef at Sika Restaurant in The Powerscourt Hotel
Halibut, parsnip puree, romanesco, pearl onion, chicken wings, cep dressing ingredients Halibut: 180 grams x four pieces Warm a non-stick pan and add a splash of rapeseed oil, cook for approx three mins on one side and turn over, add a knob of butter and let cook for one more minute. Parsnip puree: 100 grams butter 100grams shallot 500 grams parsnip 500 mls Milk 500 mls Cream 5 grms Salt Granny smith apple 1 sprig Thyme Sweat the shallots in butter and add the peeled parsnip. Add the milk and cream and cook. Add the chopped apple 10 mins before you take it off. Strain and puree until smooth. Cure for chicken wings: 90 grms maldon 2 star anise 20 coriander seeds and white
peppercorns 1 stick cinnamon 2 bay leafs 3 sprigs thyme 3 cloves garlic crushed Mix with chicken wings and cure for 3 hours. Wash off all the spices and then Cook the wings at 125 for approx 2 hours in duck fat. Take out and then caramelize the skin in a hot pan. Cep Vinaigrette: 200grms diced cep mushroom 30grms tarragon vinegar 100mls Madeira 150mls gravy 50 mls chicken stock 50 mls cep oil
Caramelize the ceps in a little oil and add the vinegar and reduce. Add the Madeira and reduce. Add the gravy and stock and bring to a boil. Season and finish with the cep oil. For the pearl onions, peel and lightly sweat in butter. Deglaze with white wine and cover with chicken stock and cook out. Blanch the romanesco or broccoli in salted water. To serve put some parsnip puree in the centre of a plate, halibut on top of the puree. Put the caramelized chicken wings, romanesco and onion. Drizzle the dressing over the fish
Just WLD about dancing your way to full fitness Advertorial
WLD (Wicklow Latin Dance) Dance and Fitness Studio in Rathnew was set up in 2012 by Alex and Elaine. Primarily one of the best competitive Ballroom and Latin dance school in the country, WLD is also a fitness centre provide a wide array of group fitness classes. Alex and Elaine are professional ballroom and Latin dance instructors; amongst their students are numerous champions. Alex and Elaine are also fully certified fitness instructors in several branded fitness products including Zumba®, Fitsteps®, Bokwa®, Insanity® & Fit4Drums®. Their latest addition in the
WLD studio is the brand new Kick Start Fat Loss classes. These slimming and exercise classes are already very popular in the UK. The KSFL classes are designed for busy members who will be shown how to cook, eat and exercise in the most efficient but natural way. To encourage members to cook and eat naturally, Alex and Elaine have negotiated 10% discounts for their KSFL members at local retailers in Wicklow Town – Derek Dunne Butchers, the Fish Man & An Tairseach organic farm shop. The Sports Room are also providing Kick Start Fat Loss members 10% discounts with their fitness gear. The hugely popular Kick
Start Fat Loss club from the UK already see success stories pouring in on national newspapers and social media reporting members dropping dress sizes within months. Busy members would only need to meet with their instructors once a week. Between meetings, members will be supported with online workouts, nutritional advice and motivation from the creator of the program herself. The Kick Start Fat Loss Club is also formatted to be affordable. Members only need to pay a joining fee of €20 and each class thereafter is €10 each and the joining fee will include KSFL manual to fat loss, meal planner, all the online workouts and support. Alex and Elaine are very excited about the KSFL programme. “Kick Start Fat Loss instructors all over the UK are changing people’s lives for the better. Together we are on a mission to educate people about what they should be eating and how they should be exercising.” Members are welcome to join at any time. More info oninfo@wicklowlatindance. com or 086 3262635
sport| 23
January 15 2015 wicklowvoice.ie
insideback
with Brian Quigley
Who’s that eyeing up our Stephanie?
Although Stephanie Roche missed out on the Puskas Award at the FIFA Ballon d’Or on January 12 in Zurich, Shankillborn Stephanie has put Irish ladies football on the map. Rodriguez’s strike (42%) edged out Roche audacious volley (33%) and the Manchester United man’s header (11%). The breakdown means that Roche claimed over a million of the 3.3m votes cast. The goal was scored in front of a crowd of just 95 people at Wexford’s Ferrycarrig Park, but over six million fans viewed the goal on YouTube and sparked hopes that Roche could become the first woman to claim the coveted award. “I suppose [I’m feeling] disappointment. As a footballer I would like to have won the award. But right now I just want to take the chance to thank everybody back at home who did vote for me. The support has been unbelievable,” said Roche, who is dating Bray Wanderers’
name a few) were of the view that technically Stephanie’s goal was the best of the three on the short-list. The balance, balletic movement, skill and execution involved were top drawer. It was great to watch Stephanie on a world stage like this. She really is an inspiration to our upcoming sportspersons, along with other local heroes like Fionnuala Britton and Katie Taylor.
Stephanie Roche walks past Ballon d’Or winner Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi’ player Dean Zambra. “Being the first Irish person to get here, and also being the first female, has been fantastic. “Colombia is an awful lot bigger than Ireland, so to have got that close means a lot to
Revised Routes 45a, 145 & 184 Dublin Bus wishes to advise customers of the following changes. Routes 45a, 145 and 184 - Sunday 18th January 2015 A revised timetable will be implemented on Routes 45a, 145 & 184. A change of termini will be made on Routes 45a and 145. The terminus for Route 45a will be extended to Kilmacanogue. Route 145 will no longer serve Kilmacanogue but will instead terminate in Ballywaltrim. These changes will improve reliability and punctuality on the routes. For full details please visit www.dublinbus.ie Help and contact customercomment@dublinbus.ie
(01) 873 4222
#dublinbusnews Social media monitored from 08:00 – 18:00 Mon-Fri and out of hours during periods of severe disruption. Phone lines open 08:30 - 18:00 hrs Mon-Sat (Excluding Public Holidays).
me. So, again, thank you to everyone who did vote. “It’s been a crazy, crazy ride. I’ve done so much stuff that I probably wouldn’t have done if the goal hadn’t been videoed, so I suppose it’s been brilliant.
“There’s been so much positive reaction and feedback from people such as pro footballers, and ex-pros.” A lot of high-profile names in soccer (Gary Lineker, John Hartson and Matt le Tissier to
Ed Joyce Bray man Ed Joyce has been selected to play for Ireland in the 2015 Cricket World Cup in Australia and New Zealand. It will be Ed’s third World Cup, a record he will share with captain William Porterfield. The 15 players selected will train and take part in a triangular tournament in Dubai against Afghanistan and Scotland in advance of the Finals tournament, where they will face group games against Scotland, Bangledesh, West
indies, UAE, South Africa, India and Pakistan. We wish Ed and the rest of the Irish team the best of luck. Greystones RFC Good luck to the Greystones Rugby Club first XV who have reached their first final for a while. On January they take on Wanderers at Donnybrook in the Leinster Senior League Shield Final at 1pm. The Seagulls resume All Ireland Rugby League duty (and their promotion bid from Division 2B) at Dr Hickey Park on Saturday January 24 against Richmond. Fionnuala Britton Great to see Wicklow’s Fionnuala Britton build on her sixth place at the European Cross Country Championships last month with a second place finish at the Great Edinburgh 4K Cross Country on Saturday last January 10. Fionnuala ran a superb race and was just edged out by Britain’s Emelia Gorecka.
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24| ADVERTISING
wicklowvoice.ie January 15 2015