Wicklow Voice July 2 2015

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wicklowvoice.ie July 2 2015

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Ticking timebomb

Deer to blame for Lyme disease surge

By Michelle McGlynn

AN explosion in the deer population in Wicklow will lead to an upsurge in humans contracting Lyme disease, a leading medical expert has warned.

As the county basks in glorious susnshine, residents and visitors are being urged to take precautions to prevent the bacteria which is spread by ticks that live in deer.

Wicklow has been identified as a “high-risk” area for Lyme disease and also has the highest population of deer in the country.

Speaking to the Wicklow Voice, UCC-based Dr Eoin Healy explained, “The increasing risk of Lyme disease relates directly to the growing deer populations throughout Ireland and this in turn has been facilitated by the extensive afforestation programmes that provide ideal habitats for red and sika deer.

“Deer are the perfect host animals for ticks and one can predict with certainty that a growing deer population will be quickly followed by a surge in tick numbers and therefore a greater risk of human-tick contact and an inevitable rise in disease incidence.”

The most common sign of infection is an expanding area of redness followed by fever, headache, and feeling tired.

If untreated, symptoms may include loss of the ability to move one or both sides of the face, joint pains, severe headaches with neck stiffness, or heart palpitations.

Months to years later, repeated episodes of joint pain and swelling may occur and sufferers can have problems with memory. The deer population in Wicklow has long been a point of contention and it now seems that Lyme disease is the latest in a list of problems.

Continued on next page

The Voices of Bray Musical Director John Ivory presents a cheque for €6,000 to John Hannigan, Managing Director of Sunbeam House Services, raised following the choir’s three sell-out shows at the Mermaid Arts Centre in Bray recently. » Lots more pictures from around the county inside

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04| NEWS news in brief New Cathaoirleach Cllr Grainne McLoughlin has been named Cathaoirleach of Greystones Municipal District.

“I look forward to representing everyone to the best of my ability and achieving some real positive outcomes for the district,” Cllr McLoughlin wrote on her Facebook.

Wheelchair bus The Department of Health has allocated €20,000 for a mini-bus for the Irish Wheelchair Association Arklow.

This funding is provided through the Department of Health’s National Lottery funding for healthcare-related and social care services.

Sun Smarts As we finally welcome summer, people are being reminded to remember the importance of UV protection.

The Purple House crew will be stationed at Groove Festival, Killruddery this weekend giving out SmartSun UK wristbands and information on the importance of UV protection.

wicklowvoice.ie July 2 2015

By Michelle McGlynn HE could have been talking to Laura Whitmore when he said “You look beautiful,” but an awed Hozier was in fact talking to the crowd at Glastonbury last weekend.

The Wicklow-native played the iconic Pyramid stage on the final day of the festival ahead of Patti Smith and Lionel Richie.

Although clearly struck by the size of the crowd, he held his own as he realised a long-held dream.

“I have watched this on television every year for as long as I can remember, so I can’t tell you how amazing it is to be here,” he told the attentive crowd.

His set had the weary Sunday afternoon revellers swaying and belting out his tunes which included mega-hit Take me to Church and favourites Work Song and Someone New. An unexpected cover of Arianna Grande’s One Less Problem saw Hozier having “just a bit of fun”.

He wasn’t the only one having some fun at the famous festival.

Laura Whitmore was spotted around Worthy Farm showing off her festival style with some A-list mates.

The Bray presenter’s social media was filled with updates and pics from #Glasto2015 In between posing for photos with One Direction’s Niall Horan and Louis Tomlinson, she caught sets from Christy Moore and Florence and the Machine.

Laura and Hozier rock Glastonbury

Pack up the family car and make a day of it at Airfield Estate this summer…

Lyme disease warning

Continued from previous page

airfield ESTATE With the sun shining and kids on their summer holidays, why not make a day of it at Airfield Estate which is bursting with fun activities everyday including: • Egg collecting at 10am, followed by milking of the Jersey cows in the farmyard at 10.30am • Guided tours of the house and gardens at 11.30am and 2.30pm • Join the farmers to feed Airfield’s animals at 3.15pm New for 2015 is Naturescape – an interactive play area for 4-12 year old visitors with a 27m zip wire, tractor tyres, balance beams and woodland hideouts. For our little visitors from 0-4 years there is the new Grey Barn which is a specially designed indoors/outdoors play area with play market stalls, cooking stations and thatched cottage.

Set over 38 acres and just off the M50 in Dundrum, Airfield Estate is the perfect day out. Pack up the car and enjoy a rural experience in the city.

Airfield Estate | Overend Way, Dundrum Dublin 14 | Open daily from 9.30am t: 01 9696666 | e: info@airfield.ie | w: www.airfield.ie Follow us online @ facebook.com/airfielddublin | twitter.com/airfielddundrum

Those working or spending leisure time in high-risk areas are encouraged to take precautions.

An estimated 300 cases of Lyme disease occur in Ireland every year.

Singer Avril Lavigne has made headlines in recent weeks after she revealed her struggle with the disease over the past year.

Also, Irish woman Hannah Nolan told how she contracted the disease while running the trails in Wicklow’s Avondale Forest in May 2013.

“About two weeks later, I was hit hard with fatigue and a general feeling of being unwell,” Hannah explained.

Over the course of six months, Hannah’s symptoms worsened and it wasn’t until six months later a French locum diagnosed Lyme disease.

“The key to dealing with the disease is early diagnosis and treatment, as late-diagnosed cases tend not to respond well,” Dr Healy told the Wicklow Voice.

Terror in Tunisia: local tells of lucky escape

By Michelle McGlynn

Holiday bliss turned to horror as one Wicklow woman found herself caught up in the terrorist attack in Tunisia last week.

Cathy Piper was on the beach in Sousse when the attack at the Imperial Marhaba Hotel took place on June 26.

“I saw (the attacker) from a distance - a guy dressed in black walking along the beach,” Cathy said. “The hotel staff were great. They ran to the crèche to get the kids out.”

Luckily, Cathy managed to follow a staff member in a side door to safety and escaped unharmed.

She returned to Ireland later that night.

Three Irish citizens were among the 38 killed in the attack.

Laurence and Martina Hayes, a couple from Athlone and Lorna Carty a nurse from Co Meath were killed by the gunman at the popular holiday resort.

Several Irish citizens who escaped unharmed have spoken about the horrifying events that unfolded on the beach.

Annette Callan, from Co Meath, was with her husband Pat when the gunman opened fire just metres from them.

“When the shooting started, and it was less than a minutes

walk away from where we were, I thought to myself, ‘Thank god the kids are all grown up, they’ll be able to look after themselves, and at least Pat and I will die together’,” she revealed.

Tunisian authorities have said that the attacker, Seifeddine Rezgui (23) who was shot dead by officers at the scene, was the only gunman.

However, some eyewitness accounts have disputed this.

Marian King, from Lucan, Co Dublin, has said that reports of a lone gunman are wrong.

“There are many of us that definitely believe there was more than one gunman and believe that somebody came through the [Bellevue] hotel.”

Islamic State have said it was behind the attack.

A group of people were arrested on June 29 in connection with the massacre and believed to have provided Rezgui with weapons and logistical support.

In the wake of the attack, Minister for Foreign Affairs Charlie Flanagan called on holiday-makers travelling to the country to exercise extreme caution.

“While the Tunisian authorities have declared this incident to be over, we would urge Irish citizens to remain vigilant and to follow any instructions given by the police, tour operator, and hotel staff,” he said.

New links with China County Wicklow and the Hainan Province in China have established a relationship following a visit by a delegation from the Chinese Province.

A Letter of Intent was signed by both sides agreeing to make concerted efforts, on the basis of equality and mutual benefits, to promote people-topeople contacts and economic and trade interflow. As part of the Sister County-Province

Relationship both sides will carry out exchanges in forestry, science and technology, tourism, environmental protection and others.

Brian Doyle, Chief Executive, said “Wicklow is perfectly positioned for growth in the technology sector and the collaboration between the two communities has the potential to create new and innovative synergies.”

NEWS |05

July 2 2015 wicklowvoice.ie

wicklow people in pictures

Vincent Offington, Killincarrig. Michael Mc Gowan, London, and Charles O’Reilly, Killincarrig. Three past pupils of Saint Kevin’s Primary School Greystones, from the mid 1950s at Greystones seafront. The school was then St. Kevin’s CBS. Pic John Mc Gowan

Piper John McCrea from Wicklow at the NI Armed Forces Day

Margaret Stephens (Guild President) cutting the cake with Ellie Doyle (Guild Baun Cara) and Claire Timmons (Guild Secretary) as the Ashford ICA celebrates 50 years

Artist Erik O’Eir with Senator David Norris at the unveiling of Eric’s sculpture in Arklow Town for the Wicklow Pride Festival. Pic: Bob Pritchard

Bo, Gabriella, Aoibhe, Mikey and Oisin are all smiles at the Fun Dayz Community Childcare children’s ‘graduation’ party in Bray

Little Jackson Furlong and his mum Jemma were out and about enjoying the weather in Arklow. (pic Yvette O Beirne)

06| NEWS news in brief Susi info session YouthSpin will be hosting an information session for student and/or their parents applying for a student grant.

The session will be held in Greystones Family Resource Centre, 28 Burnaby Court on July 8 from 6pm-8pm.

wicklowvoice.ie July 2 2015

Putting in an innings for Parnell

Green flag awarded St Laurence’s NS, Delgany have been awarded their seventh Green Flag to acknowledge its work in environmental awareness.

Minister Harris was invited to the school to raise the flag.

“It was also an honour to raise the school’s 7th Green Flag, a testament to yet more hard work carried out by staff and pupils.”

Water standards Six of the EU identified bathing waters in Wicklow achieved compliance with the new stricter standards of bathing water quality according to an Environmental Protection Agency report.

Bray South Promenade, Brittas Bay North and South, Clogga, Greystones South and Silver Strand achieved an Excellent standard.

AVONDALE Forest Park hosted a special cricket match on June 27 in memory of Charles Stewart Parnell’s birth 169 years ago.

The Phoenix Park Taverners cricket team and the Parnell XI, which included members of Ashford cricket club, contested the Katherine

O’Shea Cup. Before Parnell became one of the greatest political leaders in Irish history, cricket was his favourite past-time and his farther John Parnell founded Ireland’s first cricket club, Phoenix Cricket Club, in 1830.

The match took place at Parnell’s birthplace place and ancestral home, Avondale House and Forest Park, which is now under the custodianship of state forestry company, Coillte.

The result saw Ashford Cricket Club playing as the Parnell X1

win with a score of 111 for 3 of 18 against 109 for 5 of 21 and receive the trophy.

Pictured are, left to right, Tony Buck (Ashford), Carl Convery (Phoenix), Andrew Manson (Ashford) and Eugene Ward (Phoenix). Pic: Mark Harrison

La Touche owner snaps up 40 sites as decision looms

By Michelle McGlynn

Property mogul Greg Kavanagh has snapped up 40 sites in Dublin as the planning decision looms regarding the La Touche Hotel site.

The Arklow man along with his partner Patrick Crean lodged a planning application for the La Touche site earlier this year under their company, Kavcre La Touche Limited.

The plans were resubmitted in June following a request made in March by planners for further information.

A decision from Wicklow County Council is expected on July 8 and the council received eight submissions ahead of the June 28 deadline.

Among these was a submission from Leslie Bradley who objected on grounds of increased traffic congestion and noted that the height and shape of the development was not in keeping with the area.

The development proposed by Kavcre La Touche Ltd. Includes 26 dwellings consisting of three bedroom three-storey and four-bedroom four-storey town houses. Plans also include 105 square meters for commercial use, 58 car parking spaces, a play area and a lawn.

Development of the site would see alterations to the centre block of the La Touche hotel building and the demolition of newer side and rear extensions.

New Generation Homes, a building group formed by Mr Kavanagh and Mr Crean, were involved in a massive land grab which saw them secure 40 sites in Dublin.

The company has secured planning permission on some of the sites but it is expected that other sites will be released into the rising property market.

New Generation Homes has positioned itself as a major player in the provision of new homes over the next few years.

Mr Kavanagh’s group recently acquired land in Inchicore, Dublin, which was previously owned by developer Liam Carroll. Around this time, they bought a series of adjoining sites in Killiney, south Dublin.

The group, backed by UK fund manager M&G, has expanded to more then 20 staff while M&G executives now spend several days a week in Ireland.

It has been speculated that the building group will venture into office and retail developments, government housing initiatives, nursing homes and student accommodation.

M&G has made approx €300 million available to New Generation Homes for land deals through its Debt Opportunities Fund, which seeks a 15% return per year.

It also owns around 45% of the equity in the parent company, with Kavanagh and Crean holding the balance.

July 2 2015 wicklowvoice.ie

advertising |07

08| NEWS news in brief Groove winners Congratulations to the winners of our Groove Festival competition, Ger Bateman from Kilcoole and Louise Connolly from Bray.

Baby hoax False reports that a newborn baby was found dumped alive in a bin in Wicklow Town spread rapidly on social media last week.

Gardai confirmed later that night that they had received no reports of such an incident.

Fran remembered This Saturday will see Fran O’Toole of the Miami Showband remembered in a series of events. A mass will take place in St Peter’s Church at 10am. Following the mass an official ceremony will be held at 2.30pm to rename the bridge over the River Dargle in the musician’s honour. At 4pm, a plaque will be unveiled at Fran’s former home on Albert Avenue, then the Miami Showband will perform in Mermaid Art Centre in the evening.

wicklowvoice.ie July 2 2015

Seabreeze blows into town

By Michelle McGlynn

Arklow will be buzzing with fun and excitement when the annual Seabreeze Festival kicks off on July 6.

The family-friendly festival, which runs for a fortnight, showcases all the delights that Arklow has to offer.

Arklow Seabreeze Festival sees people flock to the town every year and is a summer highlight for families in the county and beyond.

At the launch of the festival recently, Chairman of the festival Colm Moules emphasised the importance of supporting the festival and the people who volunteer every year to make it great.

“We need everyone to come out and support our festival and to tell all our family and friends both at home and outside the county to take a short break to enjoy the many wonderful places and things to do in Arklow,” Colm encouraged.

Ahead of the festival, the Bridgewater Seabreeze Festival Princess will be chosen at the Arklow Bay Hotel on July 5

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Tracey Teelan, Sophia McGee, Colm Moules, Aoibhe Clarke, Katie Doran, and Tracey Cullen from Bridgewater Shopping Centre at the launch of the Arklow Seabreeze Festival which took place recently at Murphy’s in Arklow. (pic Yvette O Beirne) at 8pm. The lucky lady to be crowned the festival princess will receive a specially commissioned tiara designed by John Swan Diamond Jewellers and a total prize fund in excess of €1,000.

Not forgetting the lads, Mr

Seabreeze 2015 will be crowned at Sally O’Brien’s on July 6 at 9pm.

The Swinging Pubs competition returns, running from July 8-16.

With a fantastic line-up of shows scheduled you will have

a ball as the pubs battle it out for the title of Best Swinging Pub 2015.

A hotly anticipated new event this year is the Soap Box Derby on July 19 at 7.30pm on the Main Street.

Let your imagination loose

and get building your very own soap box and you could pick up the prize for best turned-out soapbox, funniest soapbox or overall winner.

The Caveman Challenge, which is sponsored by Forge Gym, will take place on Main Street at 2.30pm on July 19.

If you are interested in showing off your talents, why not take a stand as part of the Artisan Food and Craft Fair?

The fair will be on Main Street on July 19, contact 087 2886845 for details.

The main weekend of the festival, July 17-19, include the AGB Festival of Football, all day carnival, live music, eating competitions, the pig derby, a teddy bear’s picnic and lots more.

The final night features live music from China White, Mooney Brothers and Mexican traditional band Mariachi San Patricio.

The festival will close with a spectacular fireworks display at 11pm on July 19.

For full festival details, see www.arklowseabreezefestival. ie.

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10| NEWS

wicklowvoice.ie July 2 2015

Farewell Duck: tributes spring up in memory of tragic Georgia

By Michelle McGlynn

Little ducks have been popping up around Bray in a touching tribute to local girl, Georgia Murphy.

Georgia (13), whose nickname was Duck, died suddenly on June 21 from an asthma attack.

In her memory, a campaign has been set up to raise awareness and funds for the Asthma Society of Ireland.

Ducks for Georgia began when mourners at the young girl’s funeral were given chalk and encouraged to sketch a duck and make a donation in her honour.

As ducks appeared around Bray, word of the campaign spread and now Ducks for

Georgia can be found as far away as Australia and the US. Most of the ducks have been drawn in chalk on streets and walls but some people have gotten creative by drawing ducks in the sand, making them from

stones or rose petals and even using Minecraft.

A Ducks for Georgia Facebook page has been set up where people can share photos of their ducks.

Photos of the tributes can also be shared on Twitter using #drawaduckforGeorgia or #drawducksforGeorgia.

Many of the images on the page are accompanied by the saying, “Don’t cry because it’s over, smile because it happened” as family and friends are encouraged to celebrate Georgia’s life.

If you would like to pay tribute to Georgia with your own duck be sure to donate €2 to the Asthma Society of Ireland by texting BREATH to 50300.

news in brief Willow craft Artists Aoife Patterson and Greg Murray have organised a week-long willow craft workshop for children.

For children aged 8-12 years, the workshop takes place in Killruddery House from August 3-7 and costs €190 per child for five days.

24 hour race

Summer Hockey in Bray

Salthill, Galway

Two Wicklow runners will compete in this year’s Energia 24-Hour race on the Mary Peters’ Track in Belfast on July 17 and 18. Don Hannon and Barry Thornton will compete in the 24-hour race and Donna McLoughlin from Bray in the 12-hour event.

Jack’s Music Club

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Sydney, Australia

Delgany street party to mark 4th of July

Delgany will be decked out in stars and stripes as the village celebrates the 4th of July.

Kicking off at 3pm, the fun family event includes face painting, games, a BBQ and other delicious food and much more.

There will be live music in the Horse and Hound from 8pm.

There is a €10 cover charge for evening of music with limited VIP seating for those who purchase tickets from the venue in advance.

The Delgany 4th of July Block Party has been organised with thanks to local businesses The Bear Paw Deli, Farrelly’s of Delgany and Pigeon House Cafe.

Proceeds from the day will benfit the Delgany Community Council and Delgany Village Projects.

Jack’s Music Club kicks off at the Hot Spot Music Club, above the Beach House, Greystones on July 3. The Kelly Brothers are joined by family and friends including New Yorker, Martin Flynn on July 5.

Book sale Visit the July First Saturday Book Sale in the Shankill Old Folks Centre, Lower Road,from 10am to 1pm on July 4. You never know what you might find with a great selection of reading material available at bargain prices.

Donations of books accepted on the day.

Wrestling

Superstars of Wrestling will be bursting into St Patrick’s GAA club, Wicklow Town on July 4 from 6pm. Tickets are €8 on the door. Katey Harvey from Kilmac will be central to the show.

Brittas Bay fest The sixth annual Brittas Bay summer festival will take place on July 12 in the field opposite the Star of the Sea Church. Gates open at 1.30pm, entrance is €4 for adults, children go free.

got a story? let us know by emailing

info@wicklowvoice.ie

July 2 2015 wicklowvoice.ie

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12 | OPINION

opinion&comment

Just too much news for this time of year

N

ormally at this time of year we have entered the quiet season. The politicians, like the schools, have broken up for the summer and September is a long way off. We’ll pick up with the weighty concerns of the nation and beyond at that point, and in the meantime we can get on with enjoying the summer holidays, where nothing much of consequence happens.

This year, unfortunately, has been very different. Watching the news of late involves having to digest one tragic or worrying piece of news after another. The Berkeley tragedy. The holiday massacre in Tunisia, suicide bombing in Kuwait and beheading in the south of France. The EU membership referendum in the UK. The Greek debt crisis. The large spike in immigration into our country that could have an impact on our economic recovery.

Too much seems to have happened or is happening at a time of year when normally news is going through a slack period. It really brings home to you how much a global place the world is now, and how much a part of it – good and bad - we all are.

At a time of year when most people are heading off on holidays, the gunning down of 38 holidaymakers on a beach in Sousse, Tunisia, was horrific beyond words. As well as ruining the lives of the family members of the people he murdered, the gunman has surely ruined the lives of his own family members and quite possibly the Tunisian economy, which relies heavily on tourism revenues.

Greece economy isn’t in good shape either. They defaulted on their IMF debt this week and had to introduce capital controls.

There had been a protracted stand-off between the Greek Prime Minister and Finance Minister (Alexis Tsipras and Yanis Varoufakis) and their EU counterparts over the last few weeks as the deadline for the repayment of money owed to the IMF approached at the end of June.

I followed the impasse closely and it was like watching a game of economic chess.

The Greeks thought the rest of Europe would blink first and let them off the hook but the opposite happened in the end leaving the nation staring into the abyss.

There will be consequences for all of us, with investments, pension funds and government bonds affected, but in general the EU is much better fire-walled now than it was in 2008.

It all makes the actions our own governments took in 2008 (the Fianna Fail – Green coalition) and since (the Fine GaelLabour coalition) look very much the right

way to have gone. I remember Sinn Fein advising at the time we do what the Greeks subsequently did (not properly embracing austerity) – hopefully the voters will remember this too as the next election approaches, as it shows the questionable economics that underpin Sinn Fein.

We are getting stronger day-by-day as a country and an economy because we made the right call in the face of adversity in 2008 and since.

Getting stronger as an economy brings with it its own problems, and the large spike in our immigration figures recently is a rerun of what happened when the Celtic Tiger was in full swing.

At that time a lot of the immigrants / asylum seekers were from Africa but this time there are sizeable numbers from Bangledesh, Pakistan and Afghanistan arriving.

The world has changed in the fifteen years or so since the peak of the last wave of immigration, and people are displaced from different countries now than before.

Economics seems to be a constant thread running through all of the above strands of news. People are forced to migrate due to economics.

They follow the money, and if we are seen as a well-off country people will try to come here. Failing to respect economics has been Greece’s downfall – the country still doesn’t have a proper tax-collection system despite all that has happened since 2008.

And whenever tragic events like the ones that have unfolded in Tunisia, France and Kuwait occur, it is usually suggested that radicalisation of people is largely contributed to by poor economic circumstances.

If economics is such a key to explaining why things have gone wrong, perhaps the world needs to focus harder on getting it right, on distributing wealth in a fairer way rather than allowing the huge divides between the richer and poorer nations to continue. Wishful thinking I know.

Brian Quigley is a native of Wicklow.

the gunning down of 38 holidaymakers on a beach in Sousse, Tunisia, was horrific beyond words

“P

I approved of the introduction of the euro in 2002 ... some blame this for the forced austerity of recent years.

Maybe so. But we would have been worse off trying to keep our little independent currency afloat Tweets of the week

Brian O’Driscoll @BrianODriscoll “This build up for the McGregor v Aldo fight seems longer than my bleedin year long ‘see ye folks I’m off’ debacle...”

Niall Breslin @nbrez “Dear @taylorswift13, I have now had to buy four iPhone 6 chargers in space of 3 months due to shoddiness of products. Can you have a word” Colm Tobin @colmtobin “On a very slow train to work, which is annoying. On the upside, my Fitbit appears to believe I’m jogging.”

Waterford Whispers @WhispersNewsLTD “#WWN Politics: odd scenes as Gerry Adams has sat down in the Taoiseach’s seat in the Dail, Enda Kenny seemingly too afraid to say anything”

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 Brian Quigley with Michael Wolsey

Why ditching small coins makes cents

lus ca change ... I have lived through three major currency changes and in one aspect they have all been the same.

We have been rippedoff every time. That’s why I am worried by the Government’s plan to ditch the one and two cent coins.

It’s not a real switch, of course, just a bit of tinkering. At least those other changes brought some genuine advantages. This one will merely end the inconvenience of carrying large amounts of copper, or whatever it is that coins are made from nowadays.

There was no doubt about the advantage when, in 1971, the country moved to decimal currency. Before that we had a crazily complicated currency system dating back to the reign of King John.

Yes, that’s the same King John who is now being celebrated down in Waterford because he granted that city its first charter back in 1215.

He gave it the the right to hold an annual fair and he opened a mint so there was loads of money to spend.

Minting the money was no problem, quantitative easing being a royal speciality back then. But the king had some difficulty holding on to it since, for reasons known only to film producers, he was for ever trying to move it through Sherwood Forest where his lightly-guarded messengers would be relieved of their loot

by Robin Hood.

When Robin brought his well-gotten gains back to the greenwood glade and threw them on the ground for Marian to admire, what they had before them was a pile of coins classified by three Latin terms: librae, solidi and denari. Or LSD if you had a grá for the Latin. Which nobody had. Not John, who spoke French.

Or Robin, who spoke English. Friar Tuck, maybe - well you know how it is with money and men of the cloth.

Anyway, there were 12 denari to a solidi and 20 solidi to a librae. This did not make for easy calculation and I guess the merry men weren’t in too jolly a mood by the time they had finished counting.

Incredibly, this mad system was still in use 760 years later with L, S and D changed to pounds, shillings and pence.

We were still inflicting it on unfortunate schoolchildren, their lessons made more complex by the addition of further coins to the range: crowns (five solidi), halfcrowns (30 denari), florins (24 denari) and guineas (21 solidi).

By 1971 crowns and guineas were not actually in circulation but children were made to learn their values anyway, pre-

sumably on the basis that their parents had been forced to suffer and didn’t see why their offspring should escape.

So good riddance to all that. Except that every shopkeeper in the land seized the opportunity to hike the price of just about everything. And they did it again in 1979 when we broke the link with sterling. The newly independent Irish pound started life at a rate just below sterling, rose swiftly and briefly above the British currency, then slipped back and steadied at a level between 10 and 15 per cent lower.

These fluctuations had no bearing on the prices in the shops nor did it matter where the goods came from. The pound might be up or down, the products from Britain, Belgium or Bahrain. But the shopping bills only moved in one direction: up, up, up.

I approved of the break with sterling. I also approved of the introduction of the euro in 2002 and I still do. It removed devaluation from the fiscal weaponry of the Central Bank and some blame this for the forced austerity of recent years.

Maybe so. But we would have been worse off trying to keep our little independent currency afloat on the waves of a global crisis.

The move to the euro was wise but it was also the signal for a whole of range of price hikes. We were told there would be no large increases. There were. We were told that small increases which came from rounding up would be balanced by small reductions from rounding down. They were not.

That’s why I’m highly suspicious of the move to get rid of those annoying little 1c and 2c coins by rounding up or down all bills at the till.

They tried it as an experiment in Wexford in 2013 and it was, apparently, a big success. But the retailers of Wexford knew well that this was a limited experiment and that they were being watched.

Will the same restraint be shown when the scheme goes nationwide?

Like the other changes, this one has my approval in theory. I dislike those footery little coins and, like most people, throw them into jars and rarely take them out.

So yes, I know the scheme makes sense. But I fear it will also make cents.

And I know who it will make them for..

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| 13

July 2 2015 wicklowvoice.ie

anyotherbusiness

Have you got a story?

Then email info@wicklowvoice.ie

My challenging year in hot seat

I

t’s just over a year since the local elections and it’s hard to believe that my year as Cathlaoirleach of the new Bray Municipal District is finished and the next challenge ahead is the General Elections.

There is a lot of speculation on the timing of the election; however the only thing we are sure of is the fact that there will be big changes.

It was a challenging and difficult year on both on a personal and political front for me and all local authorities. Over the course of my term I had to work alongside officials who are trying to evict my family and I from our home and that case is still before the High Court, but I’ve worked with them, putting my personal issues aside as it was my duty to the citizens of this District to work for the betterment of Bray, Enniskerry and Kilmacanogue. It was a politically challenging year coming to terms and getting to grips with the new Municipal District structures which I think have been a disaster and has seen a hollowing out of the local authorities and have left us with a council representing the people of Bray, Kilmacanogue and Enniskerry but with little or

John Brady no powers. We have a housing section in the District, not only do we have no houses for the people we represent, we have a shortage of staff. This has made my role as a public representative very difficult and something that needs to be addressed immediately.

When elected as Cathlaoirleach last year I said I wanted to be a champion of equality, an advocate for strong community and bearer of change. I believe with the passing of the recent referendum, we live in a more equal society.

Over the year I represented the council at many public events and was delighted to meet many community groups and individuals. I endeavoured to use my term to support those

groups and people and use this council chamber as a forum to give them a voice and a platform to showcase the excellent work they do. Many I spoke to however felt left behind, marginalised and forgotten about.

They are hearing about a recovery; however they aren’t witnessing any recovery, just like they never witnessed the Celtic Tiger. The next few months will be challenging and offer the people of Wicklow a real opportunity to help build a Fair Recovery. For 30 years we have been told that there is no alternative.

Governments led by Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael, with the active support of Labour, the Greens and a motley crew of independents ran the economy in the same way. Tax take as a percentage of GDP was kept significantly below the EU average. Investment in vital public services – like health, education, childcare, and community services was kept low. Investments in small and medium sized enterprises were kept low.

The consequence was a two tier society and a two-tier economy.

People with money and wealth could secure quicker access to better resourced services. The rest of us had to get in line.

When the crash came it exposed the lie that was the Celtic Tiger – Fianna Fail hadn’t discovered the recipe for economic success.

They built an economy on inequality and risk. When it came crashing down people expected a real change – they thought that Fine Gael and Labour would do things differently. They have been sorely disappointed.

Instead of providing a real alternative they are implementing the same failed policies as their predecessors. Just as Fianna Fáil built a two tier Celtic Tiger so Fine Gael and Labour are building a tow-tier recovery.

But the test of a real recovery is not rising GDP or falling bond yields – it is whether people’s lives are getting better or worse.

Fine Gael and Labour may be delivering a recovery for some – but for far too many things are getting worse. It doesn’t have to be like this. There is a better, a fairer way.

Since 2011 Sinn Féin has shown that with the right policies social and economic recovery for all sections of society is achievable. Our costed alternative budgets offered Government real choices.

Fine Gael and Labour refused to listen; they set their face

against fairness; but the next Government can do things differently.

Sinn Féin is committed to building a strong and courageous state - investing in secure well paid jobs; investing in universal public services; investing in strong and vibrant communities.

This means real tax reform to generate the revenues needed for social and economic renewal. Sinn Féin will scrap water charges and the family home tax.

But scrapping unjust taxes is not enough. Social and economic recovery must be paid for. People who want high quality services know that - but they also want the bill to be shared fairly across society.

To achieve this we must rethink and reshape the fiscal rules that are currently enshrined in our laws and those of the EU. We will implement real solutions and devise real strategies to deal with our unsustainable public and household debt, reducing both its scale and cost.

We will remove the veto from the banks, give greater protection to family homes and reduce the bankruptcy term from three years down to one.

Were your born with green fingers?

Barry: We were and continue to be influenced by our mother, Racheal Doyle, who set up Arboretum in the 70s and is still an avid gardener and horticulturist today. I am a horticulturist myself and love working in our business because advice and customer service is at the core of what we do. It’s very important to us that all of our staff are informed and knowledgeable. We are very

Councillor John Brady is Sinn Féin candidate in the forthcoming General Elections. He is the Sinn Féin Group leader on Wicklow County Council the Municipal District of Bray. He also is a member of the Housing Strategic Policy Committee in Wicklow County Council.

food in your diet but they are an all-round easy to grow fruit that can be planted in your garden or in pots & containers. Blueberries, strawberries and raspberries are best.

How’s life?

Barry: Life is good. Summer has arrived and all of our gardens are in full bloom. Arboretum Home and Garden Heaven is National Store of the year and we have opened our second outlet at the National Garden Exhibition Centre in Kilquade.

What can people expect at Arboretum Kilquade?

Fergal: The new store is fast becoming a destination hot spot boasting over 5.2 acres with 20 inspirational gardens. We offer a wide range of stylish outdoor living furniture, barbeques, plants, pots and garden accessories.

Our secret garden café offers locally sourced produce and all our food is cooked on site. We look forward to welcoming everyone.

Barry: Basically Arboretum has everything you need to get your garden Summer ready!

Arboretum is more than a garden centre, it is a lifestyle experience.

We will craft a new approach to economic policy that is socially equitable and environmentally sustainable.

We will reform our political institutions and practices, making economic and social policy more democratic, accountable and transparent.

Crucially we will make the ending of poverty and gross inequality core objectives of social and economic policy.

People are still hurting from the broken promises and failed policies of Fianna Fáil, Fine Gael and Labour.

These families need hope, they need real alternatives, and they need to believe that a better, fairer way is possible.

I look forward to the challenge the next few months bring and I also look forward to telling people there is a better way and also a fairer recovery. .

What is one thing people can do to make their garden a great summer spot?

Barry: There is nothing like the pleasure of eating al fresco. We’d recommend setting up a seating area to enjoy your garden and your summer dinners. Make your garden an extension of your house, it shouldn’t be apart, it’s a living space in itself.

Fergal: We have a lot of inspiration for your garden at Kilquade,

focus on faces

Fergal and Barry Doyle of Arboretum, Home & Garden Heaven proud that Rachel was appointed the first ever Irish President of the International garden Centre Association and recently she has been appointed to the board of Bord Bia. Fergal: I would be more business minded, it’s good to have that balance in our business partnership. Recent business developments have included the development of our Arboretum online store, the launch of our A List rewarding customers and of course the development of this new venture in Kilquade.

Growing has become increasingly popular in Ireland, in recent times, why do you think that is?

Fergal: Absolutely anybody can learn to

grow, but with all the information out there, it can sometimes be difficult to know where to start. I am currently chairing the National GroMor committee, Our Campaign is delivering a simple message “Get out, Get healthy, Get Growing.’ There are sixty five garden centres participating around the country and their experts will help beginners to find fun and easy ways to get involved in their outdoor space.

What should people be planting at this time of year?

Barry: Summer is the perfect time of year to get berries growing in your garden. Not only are they delicious and now considered a super-

Best gardening tip for July?

Fergal: July can be one of our driest months.

You should water newly planted flowers, trees and shrubs and also you planted containers. Do this early in the morning or later in the evening to prevent evaporation- and water the soil or compost, not the plat itself, as the droplets will be like magnifying glasses on the leaves and will be scorched by the sunshine.

Barry: With plenty of colour available. Plant out colourful bedding in the garden near the door so visitors (and you) will be greeted with a cheerful welcome! If you don’t have a patch of soil nearby, you can place a nice container on either side of the door with matching planting. You might have room for a window box or two.

1 2 3 4 5

14 | WHAT’S HOT WILDLIFE

with Justin Ivory

Enjoying the sights of the Dublin Bay Biosphere

Cruisin’ around the Biosphere!

Sounds like the title of a pop song! Last weekend I was fortunate enough to be asked to be an assistant guide on the Birds of Dublin Bay cruise. The cruise was organised by the Dublin Port Company in conjunction with BirdWatch Ireland to celebrate the launch of the new Dublin Bay Biosphere. A Biowhat? I hear you ask.

A Biosphere is a special designation awarded by UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation). They are places internationally recognised for their biological diversity. A Biosphere designation brings no new regulations with it. Biospheres are actively managed in partnership by local communities, NGOs and local and national government to promote a balanced relationship between people and nature.

There are over 650 biospheres in 120 countries worldwide. Ireland has 2 biospheres, the first one was awarded to North Bull Island in 1981, followed by a 2nd designation to Killarney National park in 1982.

The new Dublin Bay Biosphere designation takes the original North Bull Island one and expands it to cover 300 square kilometres of the sea and Dublin city and county. Ireland will be the only country in the world with a biosphere that covers parts of a major city area.

Arctic Terns in Dublin Bay From Harbour Porpoises to Grey Seals, migratory birds to breeding terns, rare flowers to fabulous butterflies, the Dublin bay area has it all!

Now back to the cruise last Saturday. The weather conditions could not have been better – sunny, dry and calm. The boatful of enthusiastic people were treated to some fantastic sights and sounds. From Arctic and Common Terns on nesting platforms near the Poolbeg Power Station, Black Guillemots along the quays, breeding seabird colonies at Howth Head and Manx Shearwaters skimming past the boat married with brilliant views of the beautiful coastline – everybody had a wonderful time.

wicklowvoice.ie July 2 2015

Home improvement tip of the week Skon Design Unit 16, Churchtown Business Park, Dublin 14, Freephone1800 303404, www.skondesign.com Is your bedroom looking a little tired? Well then why not treat it to a makeover? SKON Design have a team of experienced and qualified cabinet makers, furniture and interior designers and sliding wardrobe specialists who are on hand to help you transform your bedroom. At SKON Design, they want to help you to transform your bedroom into the room of your dreams. They offer contemporary sliding wardrobe design that is custom manufactured for you. Built by skilled cabinet makers, they all come with a 10 year guarantee and full interiors as standard. Are you ready to transform your space with colour, space and light?

Then stop dreaming about it and head on down to SKON Design’s showrooms.

Shop of the week Aunty Nellie’s Sweet Shop Church Street, Greystones, www.auntynellies.ie Wicklow’s best-loved confectionery store Aunty Nellie’s Sweet Shop is now selling ice cream. That’s right, now when you stop in to pick up your favourites from their massive range of sweets you can treat yourself to an ice cream too. The new look shop now has its very own ice cream bar. When you drop into Aunty Nellie’s you will be spoiled for choice. Choose from locally sourced artisan scoop ice cream and sorbets. Make a scrumptious sundae for yourself choosing from a range of chocolate and sweet toppings as well as a selection of sauces from raspberry to salted caramel. If you prefer to go for a classic, you can grab yourself the perfect 99. The shop will still have all of the sweetest treats that you love. Aunty Nellie’s is perfect when you need to buy a present for someone special and if you’re planning a celebrating then be sure to enquire about their party bags. With so much to offer, you will have a tough time trying to decide what to buy so it’s a good thing they’re open until 9pm on weekends.

book of the week Family Time Fables

By Wayne Kearns Family Time Fables is a creation by Bray man Wayne Kearns.

He wanted to share Celtic Mythology tales with his niece and nephews but couldn’t find any that would interest and engage young children. So he set about creating his own so that he and others could share beloved stories from their childhood with the next generation. So far, three illustrated tales have been published. These are Cu Chulainn, The Salmon of Knowledge and Fionn and the Family. There is also a companion colouring books for each tale. The colouring book aims to further engage the children with the stories and add to their enjoyment. Books are available through Amazon and can be purchased for Kindle.

TV SHOW of the week Veep Sky Atlantic, Wednesdays The Emmy-nominated series is returning for a fourth hilarious season. Veep follows the whirlwind day-to-day existence of Selina Meyer (Julia Louis-Dreyfus) as she puts out political fires in her public and private life.

Veep returns to find Selina taking on the role of the first female President of the

Experience of the week Bray Adventures Strand Road, Bray, 087 3669999, www.brayadventures.ie Experience the fun and adrenaline of outdoor adventure sports with Bray Adventures. They have the ideal base for both water based and land based activities on Bray’s Seafront, one minute from the Dart station. Whatever your level of experience - complete novice to aspiring adventurer - they’ll make it a fun and unforgettable experience.

Specializing in summer camps, kayaking, stand-up paddling, hill walking, surfing, raft building and coastal exploring. Bray Adventures offer certified courses in SUPing and kayaking.

They cater for stags, hens, schools and colleges, scouts, language schools, corporate and family groups. Now taking bookings.

United States. As she finally achieved her life’s goal, the high was short-lived as public opinion figures took a nosedive. Selina must come to terms with her newfound powers and responsibilities while also managing to keep her campaign afloat.

With numbers down and the election only eight months away, can she cope with her dream coming true so unexpectedly?

6 7 8 9 10

WHAT’S HOT| 15

July 2 2015 wicklowvoice.ie

MOVIE of the week Magic Mike XXL Gaiety Cinema, Arklow Channing Tatum returns to lead the boys in this muchanticipated sequel to 2012 hit Magic Mike. Three years on from the first film, stripper group the Kings of Tampa are getting bored with their job and are thinking of quitting. They decide to go out in style, with one last blow-out performance in Myrtle Beach. En route to their final show, the group pay whistle-stop visits to Jacksonville and Savannah to renew old acquaintances and make new friends. Along the way, Mike and the guys learn some new moves. One thing’s for sure - their final show will be more spectacular than ever. Channing Tatum is joined by Matt Bomer, Adam Rodriguez, Kevin Nash and Joe Manganiello are all back, alongside newcomers Amber Heard, Elizabeth Banks and Jada Pinkett Smith.

HOROSCOPES

Family fun of the week The Kildare Maze Ballinafagh, Prosperous, Naas, Co Kildare, 086 8519296 There is a whole lot of fun to be had at Leinster’s largest hedge maze, The Kildare Maze. This is a fun and challenging day out for the whole family. Once you have mastered the hedge maze, there is lots more for you to do.

When you reach the centre you can enjoy the panorama from the viewing tower. Now that

you’re master of the mazes, you can take on the Wooden Maze.

The assault course will test your skill and balance before you fly along on the zip line.

After all that adventure, wind down with a round of crazy golf. If you need a rest amid all the activities relax in the picnic area and take in some sun while enjoying a picnic. The Kildare Maze is wonderful for birthday parties so get in touch to organise yours today.

Kilmacanogue Horse Show Monastery, Enniskerry, July 25, 9.30am-5pm, €5 children free with adult

Virgo- This week is a 7 Find out what’s expected before agreeing to a job. Decide what you truly want. Don’t waste efforts. The truth gets revealed.

GIG of the week

Fashion tip of the week One Oh Nine 109 Main Street, Bray, 01 2763859 Attention all fashionistas! Bray Main Street just got a lot more stylish thanks to the arrival of One Oh Nine. This trendy boutique has something to suit everyone. No matter what the occasion you can pick up the perfect outfit. One Oh Nine has you covered whether you are looking for casual everyday clothes, something for work or something for a night out with the girls. Friendly staff are on hand to help you with anything you might need. They will make sure that you leave with a smile on your face and the perfect outfit in the bag.

Gemini- This week is a 7 Keep costs down. Travel later, if you can. Keep current on homework. Add a persuasive conclusion.

Leo- This week is a 6 Talk is cheap, don’t believe all you hear. Avoid distractions like silly arguments. New developments change the circumstances.

There will be something for everyone at the 42nd Annual Kilmacanogue Horse Show. A great family day out is on the cards including the ever-popular children’s pony classes. Showing Classes include mares and foals, Irish Draught horses, hunters, Connemara’s and Welsh ponies, donkeys, miniature horses, carriage driving, Working Hunter and a sheep show with entries from all over.

Other events include a photography competition, a scarecrow competition and a family dog show. There will be stands with artisan foods, plants, poultry, arts and crafts and much more. This action-packed family fun day will raise money for local charities. In the last ten years, through the generosity of the community, over €80,000 has been raised. For more details see Facebook or visit www.kilmacanoguehorseshow.com.

Groove Festival is back with a bang and they’ve brought plenty of friends along for some fun.

This year the family friendly festival has landed The Darkness and Christy Moore as the headliners. Joining them across the weekend is a variety of acts, spanning all genres. The line-up includes The Riptide Movement, Delorentos, Wallis Bird and Wyvern Lingo. The Harbour Bar Stage was a massive hit with

Taurus- This week is a 7 Fantasies dissipate like fog. Get out in the sun. Boost the love factor. Make new connections. A road trip would be fun.

Cancer- This week is an 8 Think through planned actions to their consequences. Help others see the big picture.

Discuss how to increase sales.

Don’t fund a fantasy.

Event of the week

Groove Festival Killruddery House, Bray, July 4 and 5

Aries- This week is an 8 Choose private over public.

Unexpected good fortune surprises you. Push full steam ahead. Remain forgiving with miscommunications.

festival-goers last year and music-lovers will be delighted to hear that it’s returning. The Harbour Bar are heavily involved in the Irish music scene and have curated a wonderful weekend showcasing some of the best we have to offer. Treat yourself to performances from the likes of Corner Boy, The Eskies, Mark Geary, The Cujo Family and Tucan. If you need a break from dancing, be sure to check out all of the outdoor activities and tuck into some of the delicious food on offer.

Libra- This week is a 7 Clear clutter everywhere. Others ask for advice and assistance.

Interruptions could dispel an intimate moment. Increase efficiency.

Scorpio- This week is a 9 Appearances can deceive.

Postpone expansion for now.

Consider all options carefully.

Choose for love, not money.

Elect the most grounded version.

Sagittarius- This week is a 6 Slow down to make sure everyone’s on the same page.

Clarify terms and expectations before beginning. Add emotional spice to sweeten the proposal.

Capricorn- This week is an 8 Focus on what’s in the bag, not hopes and wishes. Resist the temptation to splurge on toys.

Save your money.

Aquarius- This week is a 7 The competition looks fierce.

There’s more money coming in. On to victory! Provide inspiration to your team. Share a vision.

Pisces- This week is an 8 Avoid gossip. Let your partner do the talking. Work toward your dream job. Keep it real.

Avoid distractions.

16 | LIFESTYLE

wicklowvoice.ie July 2 2015

my favourite things Black lace top, €11; black printed shorts, €8; both Penneys

WHAT’s HOT

with Michelle McGlynn info@wicklowvoice.ie

It’s that glorious time of year again; when the sun comes out, the holidays begin and best of all, the festivals! Whatever the festival, make sure you’re rocking your own musical catwalk of cool in the freshest styles around. From pretty retro playsuits to trendsetting swing dresses; you’ll be working the ultimate in laid back campfire chic. But don’t forget your poncho, come rain or shine make sure you’re prepared! hat’s off Denim jacket, €55; Bralet, €35; Trousers, €35; Hat €40 - all Miss Selfridge (right) Lace waistcoat, €15, Heatons Paisley palazzo, €25, Tesco Print dress, €24.99, New Look Wellies, €34, Littlewoods

Festivalchic

LIFESTYLE| 17

July 2 2015 wicklowvoice.ie

food

Peter Byrne

Head Chef at Sika Restaurant in The Powerscourt Hotel

Apple streusel 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.

Fill 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

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 break the mix up.

18 |SPECIAL REPORT

wicklowvoice.ie July 2 2015

Bray’s Top Of The Town

Locals help Jordan in her MS battle

By Michelle McGlynn

Want to place an ad? email us at info@wicklowvoice.ie

The people of Bray, along with Coffee Delights, are coming together to support Jordan Byrne as she comes to terms with MS. Two benefit nights will be held in Coffee Delights, Southern Cross Road on July 13 and 14 to raise money for Jordan following her diagnosis last December.

Tickets are €25 and includes a three course meal and live music.

There will also be a tombola and an auction with some fantastic prizes on offer.

On December 15 last year, Jordan went to work in Coffee Delights as normal but was sent home when she fainted later that

Fergal Harrington (right) with the help of newly formed Irish band ‘Roll the Dice’ in Maxol Station on Vevay Road Bray ahead of Groove festival in Killruddery this weekend day. Two days later, 20-yearold Jordan was admitted to St

Columcilles Hospital.

She had no feeling in her right

arm or right leg and blurred vision in her right eye.

On December 22, scans revealed that Jordan had nine lesions on her brain and the Multiple Sclerosis diagnosis came shortly after.

By March 3, she had lost her sight, part of her memory and had a weak left side.

A combination of a plasma exchange, drug treatment and physiotherapy has resulted in Jordan being able to walk a little bit and her vision returning.

Further rehab will see her well enough to return home but she will need to use a wheelchair and require round-the-clock care. The benefit nights will help Jordan and her family to adapt her home to suit her needs in the future.

July 2 2015 wicklowvoice.ie

SPECIAL REPORT| 19

Bray’s Top Of The Town

20 | SPECIAL REPORT wicklowvoice.ie July 2 2015

IAM-SOLD to launch first auction Property auction specialists IAM-SOLD will launch their first foray into the Leinster property market with The Leinster Property Auction taking place on July 23 in The Clarion Hotel, Dublin.

The company are already receiving significant interest as they begin offering their auction service in Leinster.

In 2014, the company held eight successful public auction events held in both Cork and Galway, with an 87% clearance rate over the course of the year.

In addition to the public auctions, IAM-SOLD also offer online auctions which run for between 30 and 45 days which the company state is one of the most transparent and effective ways to buy or sell property.

All bids are visible on their newly launched website for Leinster www. leinsterpropertyauction.ie along with their other auction websites for Connacht www. connachtpropertyauction. ie and Munster www. munsterpropertyauction.ie.

IAM-SOLD boasts an impressive 90% sold ratio at their 2015 public auctions to date.

The Leinster Property Auction are now taking entries for their online and public auctions and there are no costs to enter a property into the auctions.

Contact The Leinster Property Auction on 01 687 5040 to arrange for a free property valuation or for more information visit their website.

Stone and Tile Studio in Greystones

We have our own unique range of spanish and italian tiles in stock for same day delivery, all our bathroom products have a five-year quarantee with our shower doors and screens come with a lifetime guarantee.we specialise in full tiling and fit out service with an in house service available.

All stone ranges in stock.

With 25 years experience we can only offer you our list of satisfied clients.

We have done a lot of commercial work in greystones in which you can view such as Flemming Meats, Bochellis Resturant and the Glendale Showhouses in Delgany to name a few.

SPECIAL REPORT| 21

July 2 2015 wicklowvoice.ie

Getting on the property ladder Homes

with Clodagh Doyle (info@wicklowvoice.ie)

FINALLY that day you have been planning and dreaming about has arrived – you are collecting the keys for your first new home. At last, no more trailing online in a desperate bid to locate your ideal house or forfeiting your Saturday morning lie in’s for house viewings and thankfully an end in sight of all that mortgage and real estate jargon!

Buying your first house without a doubt can be an extremely exciting time and provide a wonderful sense of achievement, independence and security. Not to put a pin in the bubble but taking ownership of your first home comes with some degree of responsibility which prior to

this may have only concerned your parents or landlord.

Here are a few areas to consider when you have full access to your new home; Put adequate insurance cover in place including sufficient content insurance.

Change all the exterior locks as you have no way of knowing who held a key before.

Check that you have sufficient smoke alarms and a carbon monoxide alarm fitted.

Ensure there are no unwanted visitors in your new home, pests or rodents.

Your new home may greatly benefit from a deep clean.

Ensure all essential services are working correctly and switch them to your name - taking readings etc.

Sort your window coverings, even a temporary solution to avoid being on full view.

Issue change of address notifications to all your relevant correspondents.

Be mindful from the outset of energy saving, maybe switch to energy saving bulbs, check you have no water leaks and

place a lagging jacket on your water tank. Depending on the age of your property, there may be some Government grants available to help improve the energy efficiency of your new home. If you have set aside some remaining budget to renovate and improve your new home make sure you prioritise and plan it carefully, keeping in mind you have until the end of December 2015 to avail of the Government HRI Scheme.

Putting your stamp on your new home is something to be enjoyed and while it may take some time remember you are building a future – Rome wasn’t built in a day!

Transforming your property for maximum return. For a FREE consultation get in touch on 086 8159431, 01 2548070 or e-mail us info@placelift.ie

22 | NEWS wicklowvoice.ie July 2 2015

County ‘uniquely placed’ to benefit from tourist boom

By Michelle McGlynn

There was a large turnout for the Wicklow County Tourism AGM which took place in Woodenbridge Hotel, Arklow on June 30.

The crowd were addressed

by Chairman Noel Keyes and guest speaker Jenny de Saulles of Fáilte Ireland regarding Ireland’s Ancient East.

Speaking to the Wicklow Voice following the meeting, Mr Keyes said, “I was delighted with the turnout at this year’s Wicklow County Tourism

AGM. We are all aware that Wicklow is uniquely placed to benefit from the upturn in the economy and the increase in tourist numbers.”

Fred Verdier gave the Manager’s Report at the meeting and discussed the online promotion of Wicklow County Tourism and gave details of an upcoming social media campaign, #ComeToWicklow.

The figures for the website showed that the revamped site had resulted in more traffic coming to the website.

There were 1.3 million page

views in 2014 and visitor sessions were up by 35%.

Maps and directories have also been printed with plans to distribute them throughout the county, in tourist offices, at tradeshows and fairs and abroad.

Mr Verdier detailed the benefits of taking part in tradeshows and fairs such as the Holiday World Shows, Meitheal and the Irish Tour Operators Association.

The report identified the opportunities available to Wicklow as a very strong tourist destination.

The growing economy and growth in tourist numbers will be of great benefit to the county and the restructured councils also offer opportunities for promoting tourism.

Ireland’s Ancient East, a new initiative by Fáilte Ireland, is a massive opportunity for Wicklow to bring in tourists.

As a part of the initiative, Mr Verdier noted that Wicklow ticks all of the boxes: Prehistoric and Celtic Wicklow, Early Christians in Wicklow, Irish Gentry - House and Gardens, Vikings and Normans in Wicklow, Wicklow Mines, Shillelagh Sticks and Michael Dwyer and the 1978 Rebellion.

In addition, the Garden County can offer tourists stunning scenery, plenty of outdoor activities, the chance to explore the Wicklow mountains and to take in the beautiful Wicklow coast.

The report took into account the issues currently facing Wicklow County Tourism such as limited resources and limited international impact.

Lack of funding for promotional activities was identified as an issue and is a problem that some Wicklow residents have spoken of in relation to Ireland’s Ancient East.

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24 | SPECIAL REPORT wicklowvoice.ie July 2 2015

Summer in Greystones The Beach House The Harbour, Greystones, 01 2874623, www. beachhousepub.ie If you are looking for a nice spot to get some delicious food or a refreshing drink in Greystones then look no further than the

newly renovated The Beach House. With gorgeous harbour views and a large beer garden there’s no better place this summer. Check out their new menu, including the fantastic value children’s menu and enjoy some live music or live

sports on the big screen.

Brooke & Shoals Church Road, Greystones, 01 2874199, Mon-Sat 10am-6pm, Sun 1pm-5pm Brooke & Shoals has been selling gorgeous gifts in Greystones for 11 years.

Stocking a range of beautiful costume jewellery brands including Pilgrim, Absolute and Paul Costello, you will find the perfect piece to give as a present or complete any outfit.

Brooke & Shoals is also known for it's range of famous scented candles and home fragrance reed diffusers. Brooke & Shoals never disappoints.

Greystones Credit Union Church Road, Greystones,

01 2877165 Greystones Credit Union is committed to providing a broad range of innovative financial products supported by the excellent service of a dedicated, well-trained staff.

They provide a great way for you to save money while supporting the local community.

They offer loans, insurance cover and much more. As a member of Greystones Credit Union you can view your account details online.

Spendlove Coffee and Ice Cream Triton House, Trafalgar Road, Greystones, 01 2870500 Spendlove has become a staple in Greystones and a favourite of many visitors to the town. A

little bit different, it is located within a kitchen showroom! A unique setting but what better way to test out your new kitchen than to sit and have a cup of coffee in it.

Treat yourself with one of their homemade cakes and treats or even an ice cream.

Sweeney’s Takeaway Greystones harbour, 01 2870923 Joe Sweeney and his family have been serving the community and visitors to the town for over 50 years. Their delicious fresh fish and chips are legendary.

The building itself, a restored lifeboat shed, is part of the harbour’s history.

Their varied menu has something for everyone

while the cafe serves a hearty breakfast, sandwiches and favourites from the takeaway menu.

Vino’s Restaurant & Café Church Road, Greystones, 01 287 4807, www. vinosrestaurant.ie Vino’s has been serving great food with great passion for over seven years. The Café is open for breakfast from 7am daily.

This family-run, familyfriendly restaurant and café is a great place to enjoy a quiet dinner or celebrate any occasion.

Take advantage of the summer sunshine and dine al fresco.

Vino’s are now serving craft beer and house carafes for €16.50.

SPECIAL REPORT| 25

July 2 2015 wicklowvoice.ie

Shopping in the Meridian Ashanti Gold 13 Meridian Point, Greystones, 01 2871789 Ashanti Gold is a destination boutique loved by fashionable women of all ages.

Style yourself from head to toe in your favourite brands such as Oui and Nissa. They are currently having a sale with up to50% selected items. Drop in today to pick up a bargain and browse the new stock. Open Monday to Saturday.

Concepts Meridian Point Centre, Greystones, 01 2878682 Concepts is the perfect place to go when looking to buy a unique gift for someone special. Stocking top brands from home and abroad, it’s no

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

wonder Concepts is the first stop in Greystones for people when they are shopping for an occasion.

Drop in today to check out their range which includes Umbra, a design led gift range, with frames, jewellery holders and much more.

Eternity Jewellery Meridian Point, Greystones, 01 2557640 Eternity Jewellery is a leading manufacturer and retailer of bespoke jewellery in Ireland. If you are looking for something unique then Eternity is the place to shop. They are experts in

Kudos 11 Meridian Point, Greystones, 01 2873061 At Kudos hairdressing, you can be assured of friendly, professional service. Stockists of natural vegan products Pureology, they also offer Gelsih manicures and pedicures.

Kudos are now doing hair extensions.

Call or drop in for an appointment with one of their 15 trained staff. Late nights on Thursdays, last appointment at 8pm.

26 | SPORT

wicklowvoice.ie July 2 2015

required but small schools can come together for workshops.

This is for the 2015/2016 school year. If anyone is interested please contact Garrett Doyle on 083 4357460.

Allianz Cumann na mBunscol would like to wish all teachers, parents and children a happy and safe summer holidays.

Hopefully the sun will shine and there’ll be lots of opportunity to get out in the fresh air, play some games and have fun. See you all in September ready to go again.

sport in brief Special Olympics Three members from Wicklow’s Blue Dolphins Special Olympics Club have travelled over to Los Angeles in the US to take part in the Special Olympics World Summer Games 2015.

The three athletes participating in the Games, which take place from July 25 until August 2, are Laura Reynolds, John Rowan and Leo O’Brian.

Laura is a member of the Irish Ladies Basketball team, John will be competing as a member of Team Ireland in bowling and Leo was selected to join the Irish golf team.

We wish them the very best of luck and have no doubt that they will do the county proud during the Games.

An Tochar

Our Cúl Camp is on next week, 6th to 10th July. Booking can be made online, see our website for more details.

Pride of place this week goes to our U14 Boys team that took part in the National Feile 2015 last weekend.

There were plenty of proud and emotional parents when the final whistle blew in Carlow at 5pm on June 28 and the boys became Feile 2015 Div 3 Shield Champions.

Congrats to all the team.

Wicklow Rowing Club Leo, John and Laura at their last training session before heading to LA. The weekend also included a visit to the American Ambassador’s residence in the Phoenix Park

Arklow Geraldines

The next meeting of the Arklow Geraldines Ballymoney club Executive will be held on July 8 at 8pm in the Wicklow County GAA Board Room Pearse’s Park.

Well done to all the teams who took part in the Féile competition over the weekend.

All three AGB teams did the club proud. Thanks to all who were involved in organising the event for Arklow and all the people who helped out in any

way prior to the event and over the weekend.

AGB are hosting ‘The Kube’ (based on a ITV gameshow) on August 8 in the Arklow Bay Hotel. €1,000 first prize.

Contact Kerry on 087 3287881 for more details.

Bray Wanderers

There was no Lotto jackpot winner on June 28. Numbers drawn were 3-4-8-30. €30 lucky dip winners were Mick Mohan, Paurig Gallagher,

Aidan Songhurst, J. C. Doyle, Veronica Fitzpatrick. Next week’s jackpot is €9425.

Tickets cost €2.00 each and are on sale in the club shop on match days or you can play the Bray Wanderers Lotto on line at www.bwfc.ie.

Bray Wanderers are away to Limerick City on July 4 in the SSE Airtricity premier division.

Kick off at the Markets Field is 6.30pm. The Supporters club are running a bus to Limerick on Saturday departing from the Carlisle Grounds at 2.30pm. To book a seat call 0879968969.

A car boot sale will take place on July 4 in the Carlisle Grounds from 8am to 1.30pm. Cars €10, Vans €15. For more information call 0862451654.

Cumann na mBunscol

Leinster GAA and Allianz Cumann na mBunscol Laighean are offering simple workshops to teach the basics of hurling and football to interested primary school teachers. A minimum of ten teachers are

The 2nd annual Boyne Boat Race was once again won

by Vartry Rowing Club from Wicklow in their boat, the ‘Flogas Alysha’.

The Race was held on June 21 as part of the annual Irish Maritime Festival.

Rowing against high winds, they crossed the line in one hour and 37 minutes, pursued by boats from Edermine Ferry Rowing Club in Wexford, who took second and third places.

Three members of the winning team, George O’Brien, Michael O’Toole and Joe Quinn, took part in the first ever Ireland to France Ocean Charity Row, which began on May 26 in Dunmore East, Waterford and finished 58 hours later in Brittany, France.

Anyone for tennis? Head to Open Day on July 11

Wimbledon is here and tennis fever has already hit.

Tennis has grown in popularity over the past number of years among children and adults alike.

With the sun finally making an appearance and the long summer evenings stretching ahead, there are lots of reasons to pick up a tennis racket.

Playing tennis is a fantastic way to keep fit.

If you play regularly you can improve your aerobic fitness, speed, leg strength, gross and fine motor control, agility, balance and flexibility.

On average an hour of tennis will burn 420 calories for women and 600 calories for men. There is little risk of injury and tennis significantly reduces the risk of three of Ireland’s three most common killer diseases: heart disease, cancer and lung disease.

Tennis also keeps your mind focused which can help to stave off cognitive decline.

Tennis is a family sport and children can start learning how to play from as young as three or four years old.

It offers children the same health benefits as adults and

is an enjoyable way for them to keep active. Tennis clubs offer a safe environment for children to spend time as child protection measures are in place at all clubs.Tennis camps and competitions help children to develop their game, stay fit, make new friends and learn about healthy competition and fair play.

If you are thinking of taking up tennis, then head down to the Wicklow Lawn Tennis Club open day on July 11 from 2pm.

The club, located on the Vevay Road, Bray, are offering a fun family day out which will give you the opportunity to see all that they have to offer.

Take a look at their facilities and play a game or two - all

equipment is provided.

Coaches will be on hand to answer any questions you may have and provide details of summer camps and activities for children. The club has an active social events calendar so it is an easy way to meet new people.

See if your serve is on point with the radar gun that can measure your speed and accuracy. The ladies Wimbledon final will be screened and there is free face painting for the children. Strawberries and cream are on offer with a range of other refreshments and the club bar will be open.

Special joining rates available on the day from €100 for Juniors, €200 for adults and €400 for a family.

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July 2 2015 wicklowvoice.ie

insideback

with Brian Quigley

Katie lands her 18th title On June 27 in Baku, Azerbaijan, Wicklow boxing superstar Katie Taylor won the inaugural European Games and notched up major international title number 18.

Katie overcame France’s Estelle Mossely in the final to claim the gold medal in the lightweight division.

Katie didn’t have it all her own way during the week.

In the lead up to the tournament she spoke about needing to be at her best to fend off the challenge from some of the younger boxers.

To them, Katie is the veteran to be knocked off her perch.

Well, none managed to achieve this in Baku and it will be full steam ahead for Katie to the Rio Olympic Games next year.

Katie is determined to win as many major international titles as possible to leave a lasting legacy; given what she has achieved already, this legacy will last for quite a while.

Katie started off the Baku games on June 22 with a convincing win over Bulgaria’s Denitsa Eliseeva.

Eliseeva is in fact the last boxer to have beaten Katie, in 2011, but she was no match for Katie in Azerbaijan.

The quarter final bout on Wednesday 24 June against Ida Lundblad was safely negotiated next.

At 19, Lundblad was one of the younger boxers Katie had spoken of in the run-up to the tournament.A partisan home crowd made Katie’s semi-final against Azerbaijan’s Yana Alekseevna all the more difficult on Friday June 26.

Alekseevna pushed the Olympic and five-time World champion to the limit and Katie only won her place in the final after a split decision.

This was undoubtedly Katie’s toughest fight of the week, and the recovery period in advance of Saturday’s final was also Katie’s shortest of the week.

Nevertheless the Bray girl won the final easily, winning all four rounds against Mossely in a performance that exuded class and cemented her unrivalled status as the sport’s biggest star.

Well done Katie! Yet again,

Katie Taylor raises her arm after victory

you have done Wicklow proud!

Bray Wanderers After watching Katie claim another brilliant victory, sports

fans in the garden county were treated to further joy on Saturday last when Bray Wanderers continued their

revival under Trevor Croly with a victory over Sligo Rovers at the Carlisle Grounds.

This was the first game back

after the mid-season break and Bray’s one-nil victory moved them above Sligo in the table and further away from the relegation place currently occupied by Limerick, who are the Seagull’s next opponents on July 4.

Alan McNally scored the Bray goal early on and Niall Cooney was the hero of the hour, clearing three times from his own goalmouth as Sligo mounted some heavy pressure on the Bray goal to get back into the game.

Sligo had been one of the preseason favourites for the league title but haven’t lived up to expectations.

Wicklow out of All Ireland Wicklow’s interest in this year’s All Ireland football title ended on June 27 with a 2-17 to 2-07 loss to Armagh in the qualifiers. Wicklow had previously lost to Meath in the Leinster Championship.

Mick O’Dowd’s men can be proud of their efforts after being handed two very difficult ties.

Carlisle is new home for Rugby League

The Carlisle Grounds in Bray, the oldest football grounds in Ireland, is now the official home to Rugby League Ireland.

All international and representative games, as well as the All Ireland final, will be held

at the historic ground.

“We believe that our move to Bray will do nothing but strengthen Rugby League in Ireland,” commented Richard Egan, Director of RLI. “We really hope to become

part of the community in Bray, and with our title sponsors McGettigans, and The Royal Hotel, Bray both being local businesses who are backing us, we believe that this can become a reality.”

Bray will get their first taste of international senior rugby league on July 12, when Ireland will take on Belgium (see page 11).

The Irish team is coached by current Ireland students coach

and Bray local Carl de Chenu.

“It’s very exciting to bring international rugby league to the Carlisle grounds in my home town, Bray and to be involved as the head coach is a real honour.”

RLI believes that the addition of rugby league to Bray can only strengthen local businesses.

Tickets will be available shortly on Ticketmaster and will cost €5. Children under 16, students, and OAPs go free.

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