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St patrick’s day special
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March 19, 2015, t: 01 901 5556/7, e: info@wicklowvoice.ie
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Unit 8, Radio Centre , Killarney Road, Bray
wicklowvoice.ie March 19 2015
wicklowvoice
20,000 NEWSPAPERS! 5,000 web visitors! 3,000 app downloads! online, offline - we’ve got you covered !
St patrick’s day special
March 19, 2015, t: 01 901 5556/7, e: info@wicklowvoice.ie
inside: FREE
.ie
20,000 copies
xxxxx Pride
FREE
St Patrick’s Day St Patrick’s Day was a roaring success in Wicklow as a record number of people turned out for parades across the county. Over 40,000 turned out for the county’s biggest parade in Bray as people young and old came out to enjoy the celebrations. Indeed Bray enjoyed large numbers of visitors throughout their five day festival and the fireworks on March 15 wowed the crowds with an astounding display. In Greystones, they were relieved to see the sun break through the clouds just in time for the jugglers, dancers, trumpeteers and civil defencers to parade through the town. The streets were jammed as everyone came out to celebrate
their country, their heritage and of course their community. The community spirit felt in Wicklow Town was infectious as their Irish Folklore and Legendsthemed parade set off in the afternoon. Grand Marshall singer/ songwriter Luan Parle beamed as she led the colourful parade. Fantastic parades were held in Arklow, Carnew, Aughrim, Rathdrum, Newtownmountkennedy and Baltinglass. The success of each parade is down to the weeks and months of tireless work put in by the volunteers and organisations involved. These people are a credit to the county and we hope they all enjoyed the day.
A member of the Mermaid Arts Theatre and Junior Musicals Theatre is all smiles as the parade makes its way down the Main Street in Bray. Pic: Joe Keogh » Lots more pictures from around the county inside
Unit 8, Radio Centre , Killarney Road, Bray
04| NEWS news in brief Speech contest
wicklowvoice.ie March 19 2015
Lamb-tastic as sextuplets born
Bray Toastmasters will be holding their annual speech contest at 8pm in the Esplanade Hotel, Bray on March 23. Everyone is welcome to attend free of charge and on the night you will hear Bray Toastmasters members deliver some finely crafted speeches.
Right2Water
There will be a national demonstration in Dublin city centre on March 21. Buses will leave from the back of Wicklow Gaol at 10.30am with stops including Rathnew, Ashford and Newtownmountkennedy. Bus will return in evening, cost €5. Call Maureen on 087 7959958 to book.
Historical society
By Michelle McGlynn A Wicklow sheep farmer had the privilege of welcoming healthy sextuplet lambs into his litter recently. The sextuplets were born on Ronan Fanning’s farm in Stratford on Slaney. The lambs are alive and thriving according to Ronan, who was expecting just three to arrive. The three ewes and three rams were delivered by
ANDS
Bray Cualann Historical Society are delighted to announce that James Scannell will present his lecture Easter 1915 in Bray and surrounding areas on March 27. The lecture will be held in Bray Library, Eglinton Road at 11.30am and admission is free.
The six lambs and their mother on Ronan Fanning’s farm Dermot O’Toole. When the first three had been born, Dermot and Ronan thought that they were quite small, “so Dermot kept looking and more just kept coming.” “I’ve seen sextuplet lambs before, but they’ve never survived,” said Ronan. “They are small but hardy. They are all cross fostered now and are doing well.” With a flock of 400 ewes it has been an extremely busy
THE HARBOUR BAR
EVENTS GUIDE THURSDAY 19TH — FUNKY AMERICANA/COUNTRY
THE WHIPPERWILLS FRIDAY 20 — FOLK ROCK THE VIKING PROJECT SATURDAY 21 — REGGAE THE REGGULATORS SUNDAY 22 — COUNTRY/DELTA BLUES DERMOT BYRNE TH
few weeks on the farm and he has seen quite a few multiple births this year. “We have a fairly good litter size. Around 60-70 triplets have been born, along with a good few quads and a set of quintuplets,” he said. “We’re getting to the end now, at least.” The lambs will need some extra TLC over the coming weeks but they are growing with each day and should live a long and healthy life.
news in brief Jobs club A new jobs club will be launching in Kilcoole Community Centre on March 25 from 11am-1230pm, running for six weeks. A National Learning Network, Bray initiative it will help to brush up on job seeking skills, CV preparation and interview techniques. It is free of charge, call Oonagh or Colette on 01 2829643.
ST
RD
THURSDAY 26TH — DIXIELAND JAZZ
DES HOPKINS JAZZ BAND FRIDAY 27 — ACOUSTIC, VOCAL TRACK DOGS SATURDAY 28 — 90’S PARTY MASH-UPS ATTENTION BÉBÉ SUNDAY 29 — RHYTHM, TRAD, WORLD MUSIC RÓNÁN Ó SNODAIGH WITH ROBBIE PERRY TH
TH
Signal Open 2015
Signal Arts Centre, Bray are inviting submissions for their Signal Open exhibition from August 4-16. Submissions cost €9 and should be 2D works of max. 92x92cm and should be submitted by July 10, 5pm.
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f: /theharbourbarbray t: @theharbour_bar
SOI collection
Special Olympics Ireland are inviting people to get involved with their annual collection day on April 24. Wicklow residents are asked to help with local collections, hold a coffee morning or hold a jersey/theme day to raise money. Register your involvement at www.specialolympics.ie/ collectionday.
This is not our town locals react to attack on Garda The people of Bray have issued a defiant “this is not our town” after an off-duty Garda was left with a fractured skull following a late night attack, according to Tuesday’s Herald newspaper. “This is a terrible thing to happen,” a local told the Wicklow Voice. “Bray Seafront has come on massively in the last few years and is normally a very safe place. “The town was awarded its Purple Flag for its standards of excellence in managing the night-time economy last year and the local businesses and residents work very hard to ensure it is a great place to visit. This is so out of character for the area.” Gardai have made an appeal to the people of Bray to help catch three men who allegedly danced on the head of Garda Dean Bolger causing him serious head injuries in an unprovoked attack. Garda Bolger is being treated at St Vincent’s Hospital, Dublin, after the incident at Strand Road in Bray at 3.30am on Friday in which he suffered a fractured skull and fractured eye socket in the assault. His colleague Garda Sean Liddy was also attacked during the incident and Gardai are hunting for three suspects. Neither officer was on duty when the assault occurred and it is understood that the attack was witnessed by one taxi driver. “On the day that up to 40,000 people lined the streets of the town without a hint of trouble,
it’s a shame that the Herald decided to lead with this story,” a Garda-source told the Wicklow Voice. It has emerged that Gardai have also obtained good quality CCTV of the assault but no arrests have yet been made. “Garda Bolger suffered far worse injuries than his colleague. He was punched and kicked in the head and received serious head injuries,” the source claimed. “He also received an injury to his eye socket when he received a number of kicks while he was on the ground. It seems that the fractured skull was caused when he hit his head on a footpath after being struck. Garda Liddy was also assaulted but did not require hospital treatment.” Gardai say that the three men involved in the assault all wore jeans and dark zipped jackets with one suspect being described as six feet and four inches in height and the other two around five feet and 11 inches in height. A source explained that the two off-duty Gardai had been out socialising in the town and were attempting to make their way home when the incident happened. The case is being investigated by Bray Gardai and it is not clear yet if the assaults are linked to their profession. Garda Bolger is based at Greystones Garda Station while Garda Liddy is based in Bray Station. Both are aged in their late 20s and described as wellrespected officers.
Farm land prices up 56%
By Michelle McGlynn
Wicklow agricultural land prices rose more than any other county during the past 12 months according to a new report. Prices in Wicklow rose by 56.3% with land being priced at over €16,000 per acre - over €6,000 more than the average. The Garden County was followed by Dublin who saw a 45.8% increase and Kilkenny with 34.1%. Prices across the country varied widely and some
counties saw a sharp drop. Donegal suffered the worst with a drop of 26%. The annual Irish Farmer’s Journal Land Report showed that over 86,000 acres were offered for sale in 2014. This is the highest figure in the eight years of the report and was up 15.4% year on year. The report stated that prices were mainly driven by transactions for agricultural use, but the last year saw a large increase in demand for land with development potential.
NEWS |05
March 19 2015 wicklowvoice.ie
wicklow parades in pictures
Wicklow Town AFC U8s taking part in the St Patrick’s Day Parade
Gordon Robertson as St Patrick at Newtowns St Patrick’s Day Parade
More pic tures Pages 12-13
Vinny, Barbora, Eva and baby Victoria Novotny at Greystones St Patrick’s Day Parade
The marchers from St. Patrick’s Greenschool made plenty of noise at the Bray Parade. Pic. Joe Keogh
Graham McLoughlin at the Bray Parade. Pic: Joe Keogh
Two members of Bray Emmets go green, white and orange for the Bray Parade
Some of the younger players from the Arklow GAA club taking part in St Patrick’s Day Parade. Pic Yvette O Beirne
06| NEWS
wicklowvoice.ie March 19 2015
Stars turn out for Rasher’s exhibition
news in brief Attention Bébé One of Ireland’s most energetic bands, Attention Bébé are returning to the Harbour Bar on March 28. Attention Bébé are a large 12 piece 90s cover band with brass instruments, strings and rockin singers creating their full sound.
Photo competition Life Unfiltered has been announced as the theme for this year’s Top Oil amateur photo competition. Upload your photos to www.topphotocompetition. ie by May 31 and be in with the chance for your photo to appear in the 2016 Top Oil calendar and some One4All vouchers worth up to €1,000.
Yes Equality Yes Equality Wicklow are holding a public meeting in the Royal Hotel, Bray on March 23 from 7.30pm-9.30pm. The meeting will be held in a panel discussion format and audeince participation is welcome. Speakers on the night will include representatives from Sinn Fein, Fianna Fail, Fine Gael, Labour and Independent TD Stephen Donnelly.
Lorraine Keane with Wicklow artist Mark Kavanagh, aka Rasher
Wicklow artist Rasher’s first exhibition in five years has opened to positive reviews. The exhibition Life’s a Glitch: subtle imperfections from the solar plexus opened in The Dean Hotel, Dublin 2 recently. The exhibition explores the birth of an idea, its existence and whether it dies or evolves into something more. Speaking to the Wicklow Voice Rasher said, “As an artist I ask alot of questions and I ponder on the grey areas of life and ponder on the uncomfortable situations we find ourselves in. “I like to leave a stain on the viewers mind.” The exhibition was opened by Irish broadcaster and journalist Lorraine Keane and fellow Wicklow artist Conor Walton. Among those in attendance were Bill Cullen, Laura Woods, Norah Casey and Jackie Lavin. “Opening night was such a buzz. I had a full house,” Rasher enthused.
If you drop in to the exhibition you will find Rasher working away on his biggest and most controversial piece, Love and Lost Dogs. “Love and Lost Dogs is a humanitarian painting,” explained Rasher. “It questions human beings, institutions of blind faith. I question the idea or notion that a religion might be born out of mental illness.”
As he finishes the piece you are welcome to observe the process and to ask any questions you have about the exhibition. Over the past five years, Rasher has been honing his craft under Florence trained artist Conor Walton. The exhibition is open to the public in The Blue Room, The Dean Hotel on March 22 and April 5 from 11am until 7.30pm.
Billy idle no more as he steps into Renua deputy role By Michelle McGlynn
Billy Timmins has been named deputy leader of Ireland’s newest political party, Renua. The party received a mixed response when it was initially launched by Lucinda Creighton at the Science Museum in Trinity College, Dublin last Friday. The criticism has done nothing to dampen Timmins’ spirits as he retains a positive outlook for the future of Renua. Speaking following the launch, the Wicklow TD said that the party was working hard to build from the ground up. His optimism is not unfounded as a recent poll found that despite a sluggish take-off 22% of voters now say that they may back the party. The party intends to stand in every constituency with up to 60 candidates. According to Creighton 3,500 people have
contacted the party to express their interest in getting involved with 180 people wishing to become candidates. The main obstacle for the party to overcome will be funding which Creighton herself said will be a huge challenge. Renua will be looking online to the increasingly popular method of ‘crowd-funding’ to help to raise the €500,00 they will need if they are to play a credible national role. “We will be relying on the goodwill and generosity of the Irish people,” she said. “We will be doing it in a transparent fashion and publishing our accounts.” The party put forward 16 policy proposals. Renua have said that they are committed to lifting childcare costs by transferring maternity leave into parental leave and by rolling out a national network of community-based childcare facilities. One of their first steps
will be to completely overhaul the whip system. They are also committed to changing the electoral system which would require constitutional amendment. The party will maintain an open policy in matters of conscience. Both Timmins and Creighton split from Fine Gael in 2013 when they voted against the Government’s Protection of Life in Pregnancy Act. They are joined by Terence Flanagan TD, senators Paul Bradford and Mary Ann O’Brien, Cllr John Leahy and Cllr Ronan McMahon. Not forgetting their co-founder, financial advisor and television presenter, Eddie Hobbs. Hobbs has said that he would consider running for election if the Dáil goes its full term. Renua will have to keep an eye on the polls to see if their current surge in support continues but Timmins assures that he is “looking forward to what is to come in the future”.
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March 19 2015 wicklowvoice.ie
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08 | OPINION
opinion&comment A rising tide for Wicklow business
T
he recovery of the Irish economy has gained momentum over the past year, which has been largely led by strong growth in exports and investment. The unemployment rate has continued to decline steadily with consumer and investment spending both rising with domestic demand contributing positively to growth for the first time since the downturn. Even as I write this article, Ireland is lauded in the media to become the fastest growing EU economy in 2015 with a predicted GDP growth of 3.5%. This is welcome news indeed, but the economic age we live in is still an uncertain one. Traditional business models are evolving and customer loyalty is more hard-won than ever before. Collectively, the County Wicklow Chamber of Commerce represents over 400 businesses. The Chamber too has had to evolve to face the new realities of today. The Chamber means many things to many people, but one thing we all share is that the Chamber brings us together. It is up to each and every member to ensure the Chamber stays relevant, inclusive and vibrant. It is with great honour that I take over the Presidency of the Co. Wicklow Chamber of Commerce for the next six months, but with honour comes responsibility. It has been a busy start and I’m delighted to say that significant progress is being made. A memorandum of understanding has been agreed between each Co. Wicklow Chamber with a view to working more closely together on tackling issues of common interest – attracting foreign direct investment, promoting shop local, planning and ease of doing business, banking charges and more. Steps have already been taken to ensure the Chamber is properly represented and that members voices are heard. Co. Wicklow is strategically located; we have a modern infrastructure, a skilled workforce and offer a unique quality of life. Considering the significant investment we have seen recently in Ireland, we need to do everything possible to get Co. Wicklow its fair share. The Co. Wicklow Chamber of Commerce has also committed to working alongside Wicklow County Council in the delivery of the Economic Think Tank throughout 2015. The Think Tank recommends the establishment of a new business brand for the county and a major communications plan which will turn Wicklow.ie into a portal that will provide a one stop shop for businesses. This plan, which has been in development for over 16 months, also sets out a
series of 6 strategic objectives: (1) Ensure Co. Wicklow is open for business (2) Facilitate maximum economic return for the retail sector (3) maximise the value of Wicklow’s status as The Garden County (4) Capitalise on the immediate economic opportunity of the film industry (5) Sustain (and grow) the traditional sectors in Co. Wicklow (6) Be alert to new economic opportunities. There are numerous detailed actions underlying each of the objectives. Actions are now being prioritised, resources are being allocated and a delivery timeframe agreed. The Co. Wicklow Chamber of Commerce has a rich and vibrant heritage. It is important to also note that it is essentially a voluntary organisation with members giving up their time to the betterment of their community. It is my firm belief that together we are stronger. Together we will rebuild Co. Wicklow, revive our economy and provide a better quality of life for all.
‘It is with great honour that I take over the Presidency of the Co. Wicklow Chamber of Commerce for the next six months’
Josh is the Wicklow Town & District Chamber of Commerce President and took over the Co. Wicklow Chamber Presidency in March 2015. He is the founder of Grand Central and sits on several Boards including Wicklow Enterprise Park and Wicklow’s Historic Gaol. He chaired Sailfest 2014, founded Taste of Wicklow Town and is a recipient of a People of the Year 2014 Award.
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You’ve more chance of buying a bacon sandwich from a Halal butcher than of getting “just a coffee” in any self-respecting Wicklow coffee shop nowadays
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 Josh McKenna with Michael Wolsey
Why a regular flat white is your only man he woman in front of me in the queue is perusing the menu. She looks about my age and she also looks puzzled. “I’ll just have a coffee,” she says and I know her cause is hopeless. You’ve more chance of buying a bacon sandwich from a Halal butcher than of getting “just a coffee” in any self-respecting Wicklow coffee shop nowadays. The girl behind behind the counter is trying to be helpful. She points to the menu on the wall with its ristrettos, macchiatos, lattes and cappuccinos. But the women in the queue is not easily deflected. “No, just a coffee,” she ventures, obviously unaware how futile her request really is. She knows nothing. For a start, she probably thinks she is talking to a waitress or an assistant. In fact she is talking to a barista. A senior barista, no less. It says so on the back of her shirt. “A flat white?” suggests the senior barista. The woman looks startled, suspecting perhaps that she is the victim of some sort of racial slur. “Pardon ...” “Or an Americano?” The growth of coffee drinking has been truly amazing. I was aged about eight before I ever saw the stuff. A cousin of mine who had been exposed to strange influences at university brought home some instant Nescafé in a sachet. Nobody in our house, including my fancy-pants cousin, had any idea what to do with it. Apart from tea, the only hot drink any of us had ever made was cocoa, so, on a show of hands, we decided that was the way to go, boiled a pot of milk and stirred in the instant coffee. An early latte, I suppose. Now there is a coffee shop on every corner. A British research company has discovered that in 2013 there were 15,723 coffee shops in the UK. A remarkably precise figure, I must say. But I suspect it’s a bit short of the mark - by Irish standards, anyway. If you told me there were 15,723 coffee shops in our own fair county, I wouldn’t argue. A new one seems to open every day. Coffee shops are the new pubs. Not just because they are everywhere but because of the way people use them as the centre for all sorts of activity: discussing business, meeting friends, the first port of call on an evening out or the last on the way home.
According to Jeffrey Young, director of Allegra Strategies, which produced that British survey, twice as many people visit a coffee shop every day now as did in 2009. “The coffee shop market continues to astound even the most optimistic of forecasters by growing significantly in value, in outlet numbers and also in the social psyche,’’ he says. Social psyche? Language like that would drive you to drink. But probably not to a pub. Like paidfor newspapers, pubs are on the decline. The smoking ban has taken its toll as have stricter drink-driving laws, particularly in rural areas where taxis are harder to find. Cheap alcohol in supermarkets provides a further incentive for many to do their drinking at home. But beside all this there is another factor that is harder to define but no less significant. Social drinking has, quite simply, ceased to be fashionable. Pubs were once what coffee shops are now - places where you could meet friends and chat over a drink. That concept of companionable drinking is dying - a huge social change; not all that important, I guess, but, still, one of the biggest in my lifetime. Nowadays people go to bars to do things – to watch a match, see a band, listen to a comedian, take part in a quiz – but the visit is no longer an end in itself. The pub has lost its appeal as a place to simply meet and chat. Traditional pubs had a language of their own with their balls of malt and pints of plain, bottles by the neck and whiskey chasers. To be in the know was to be in the club. It is interesting that as coffee shops replace pubs they too have acquired their own terminology, impenetrable to outsiders. The woman in the queue has given up on her “just a coffee” order. “I’ll have a cup of tea instead,” she says and I wait for the barista to quiz her on a range that runs from Black, Green and Earl Grey to a variety of herbal concoctions. But, surprisingly, she prepares the brew without further comment and the woman moves along the counter to collect it and pay. “Would you like milk?” asks the trainee barista on the till. The woman nods. “Whole, low fat, organic or skimmed?” asks the trainee barista. Michael Wolsey is a former deputy editor of the Irish Independent, and sat on the judging panel for the National Newspaper of Ireland Journalism Awards.
OPINION| 09
March 19 2015 wicklowvoice.ie
anyotherbusiness
Have you got a story? Then email info@wicklowvoice.ie
focus on faces Kathrine Geoghegan, Artist How’s life? Yes, life is good thank you. I have health and happiness, a great husband, family and friends. I am very lucky. How did you first become interested in art? My mother Ada is an artist, and is still painting at 77. Us kids were given paper and drawing materials at a very young age and were greatly encouraged and mentored by her. All through my childhood and teenage years I made drawings and paintings. When I left school I worked as a junior graphic designer for a while, but moved on to other things. I got married, had four children and was involved in the family business, so my painting was put on hold for some years. About 15 years ago I started to paint again.
Sam and Kale Conyard enjoying themselves watching the St Patricks Parade in Wicklow Town
Why I object to the La Touche plans
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he most prominent building in Greystones, standing 4 tall stories, it has been a derelict eyesore for over 10 years since it closed in 2004. The only way which it will be preserved is by finding a modern economic use for the building. During the greatest property boom in our history nobody could redevelop it even though there was permission for 85 apartments and a small hotel. Originally it was listed as a protected structure which made it difficult to redevelop because the central wooden staircase would have made it difficult to reorganise the building. In order to encourage development of the then eyesore Councillors removed it from the protected structure list and specifically mentioned it as part of an Architectural Conservation Area. This means that the facade of the old hotel building must be retained and it should not be hidden from view but gives
Derek Mitchell more freedom to reorganise the inside. It would be preferable if it could be used as a hotel as there is none in Greystones which is now a large town of 18,000 population, comparable to Sligo or Wexford which have many hotels. However if the new owners of the site do not find that economic they cannot be forced to open one. A significant problem for a major development is that it would need 2 storey parking which is expensive to provide in the rock foundations, especially when there are old houses close to it due to the risk of damaging them.
The present relatively small proposal for 26 houses and a small amount of offices has surface car parking only. It involves demolishing the not very attractive modern Conference Centre. The photographs and montages show the before and after images from a number of angles. I think that the land side blends in reasonably well, including putting 4 storey houses in the old shell, but the sea side view does not look right. It is a well established practice to put good quality striking modern architecture next to preserved buildings but these ones don’t look appropriate to me. The ones nearest the harbour are too prominent and too near the main strolling path around the seafront. Although this plan includes a small park directly to the East of the hotel the new buildings hide the old hotel too much. They need to be set back more and reduced in prominence. I think that if they were built as a curved terrace, instead of blocks at right angles, it would look much better and it would
open up the view of the old hotel. I have objected to this along the above lines but the decision will be made by the Councils professional planners. If you wish to object it needs to be in by the 11th March. The small building on Trafalgar Road is reputed to be the first purpose built bank in Ireland and this is to be retained as an office. The La Touche family set up their bank in the early 1700’s though this was built later. A La Touche had been the first Governor of the Bank of Ireland in 1783. The La Touche Bank closed in 1870 and was subsumed into the Munster Bank. An interesting political fact is that 4 of the La Touche family were members of the Irish Parliament and in 1800 voted against the Act of Union which was passed amid accusations of bribery, at least the La Touche family had principles! Cllr. Derek Mitchell is a Fine Gael member of Wicklow County Council and is Chair of the Committee on Roads, Transportation and Environment. mitchelld@eircom.net.
Tell us about your upcoming exhibition at Signal Arts I’m delighted to be having a solo exhibition, Jewelled Wasteland, at Signal Arts Centre in Bray. I’m thrilled that Eanna ni Lamhna will be opening the exhibition for me at the reception on April 2. This is all new work completed over the past year. I have developed a process using organic materials such as native grasses, foliage and flowers working together with acrylic spray paint. Using the organic materials as stencils, I build up the image and colours layer by layer. The paintings that result are simultaneously vibrant and delicate which reflects the nature of these wild plants. There will be approximately 28 pieces in the exhibition of varying sizes from 15cm square to 59X84cm. What led you to focus on nature and habitat in your work? I have always been interested in the natural world. From an early age my father Bob took us out walking – up mountains, by the sea, through woods, and instilled in us a love of nature. I’m fascinated by the ingenuity of plants – how they find a foothold in the most inhospitable of places. They will take opportunities to colonise urban spaces, to run riot on a derelict site, or put down roots in the smallest pinhead of space on a window frame or a concrete ledge. We have all seen a cultivated field transformed into a sea of colour, or wild flowers thriving on the uninviting hard shoulder of a motorway. In my home in County Kildare, I have isolated an area at the back of the house which is left completely to nature – no cutting, planting, fertilising or weeding takes place there. This small wilderness has quickly become home to many native grasses and flowers, is alive with butterflies and other insects, and bears the criss-cross trails of small mammals. Who inspires you? I have a wide and varied love of art. I would have to say that the Impressionists would be my heros. I also love Georgia O’Keefe’s work, and here in Ireland, Donald Teskey’s landscapes are wonderful. I try to visit galleries whenever possible – I was lucky enough to visit the National Portrait Gallery and the National Gallery in London last weekend with my sisters! Future plans? I wish to continue to evolve the paintings I make using organic materials. I also paint landscapes in oils. I would like to work towards another exhibition in a year or so. Having a date to work towards is great for focussing the mind! What do you like to do in your spare time? I love to walk and get out most days with my dog. It’s during these walks that I collect the organic material that I use. And spending time with my family is very important to me. Kathrine Geoghegan is an artist who works with nature and habitat. Her exhibition Jewelled Wasteland is running in the Signal Art Centre, Bray from March 30 to April 12.
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10 | WHAT’S HOT
Chiffchaffs have been sighted in Kilcoole and Newcastle
WILDLIFE
with Justin Ivory
Spring has Sprung As I write this piece the lengthening days and rising temperatures have triggered the start of the annual avian spring migration. Reports are starting to trickle in from around the country of sightings of the first returning spring migrants. While mid-April to the end of May is the time of peak spring migration activity, March sees the advance party of Wheatears, Sand Martins, Sandwich Terns and Chiffchaffs arriving along our southern and eastern coastlines. In the last week there have been reports of individual Wheatears from Cork, Wexford and Waterford. The first swallow of the year has been reported from Offaly on the 14th March. Here in Wicklow the first Sand Martin was reported on 8th March (none since) and Chiffchaffs from Kilcoole and Newcastle. For me, avian spring, really begins with the first sighting of Wheatears along the Wicklow coastline, typically sometime around St. Patrick’s day. So by the time you are reading this they should have started turning up. Keep your eyes open for them flitting among the rocks along Kilcoole and Newcastle beaches, along by the sea at Greystones and in and around Bray Harbour. Why do these birds make the perilous and arduous marathon journey to our little island very year? Two words – food and daylight! There is an abundance of insect food during our spring and summer, which is critical when trying to successfully raise a brood of youngsters! Our long summer days give more hours of daylight in which to harvest this abundance of insects. So grab your binoculars and walking boots, take stroll down to the coast and welcome back our summer visitors. Please post your sightings and photos on the Wild Wicklow facebook page. Lastly, please report your first sightings of Swallow, Cuckoo and Swift to www. springalive.net
wicklowvoice.ie March 19 2015
Mum and baby idea of the week Remedy Pilates Suite 16, Parklands Office Park, Southern Cross Road, Bray, 01 2829837 Rachael Davis and her team of Pilates teachers and physiotherapists at Remedy Pilates invite you to experience their strategic approach to better health. They offer Pregnancy Pilates which is great for working on your strength and flexibility and to keep you strong throughout your pregnancy. It works on bums, tums and hip strength as well as the upper body. This is an excellent way of keeing fit and staying strong while pregnant. You will learn how to exercise safely after childbirth and help your body regain its pre-pregnancy figure by toning your tummy, back, arms and legs with postnatal Pilates exercises. The team at Remedy Pilates have a wealth of experience behind them and Rachael has run group and private Pilates classes in Ireland, Australia and the UK.
Kids camp of the week Bray Emmets Easter Camp 2015 Old Conna, Bray, March 30 - April 3, 10am - 2pm This Easter break make sure your children get active and have some fun with their friends. Suitable for boys and girls aged between five and 13 years of age, there will be age specific fun activities in hurling, camogie and football. Bray Emmets School of Excellence is dedicated to the highest level of coaching in football, camogie and hurling through a fun filled environment. A wet weather plan will be put in place for inclimate weather. The price for one child is €25, a second child is €15 and a third child is €10. Players registered and paid on or before March 21 will be entered into the Bray Emmets Easter Camp prize draw. For details contact Willie Braine on 086 0266506 or Dave Barry on 086 1208083.
book of the week Small Gods By Terry Pratchett Recently the sad news of legendary author Terry Pratchett’s passing was announced and the literary world is now mourning the loss. Fans from around the world have taken to social media to thanks Pratchett for his influence in their lives with numerous authors contributing their own success to him. If you never quite got around to reading one of his works, of which there are over 70, what better time to begin than now? Of course, you can start anywhere but here we recommend one from the global bestselling Discworld series. In Small Gods, Pratchett balances his religious satire with epic storytelling. The story takes place in the city of Omnia where their chief god, Om, has been reduced to the form of a turtle and despite an organised religion centred around his worship, no one really believes in him anymore. But one lad, Brutha, does believe and is surprised to encounter Om in his melon patch...a little turtle talking to him telepathically.
TV SHOW of the week Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt
Netflix
Created by Tina Fey and Robert Carlock it is no surprise that Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt is a hit. Kimmy (Ellie Kemper) has just been rescued after spending 15 years living underground with a Doomsday cult. Refusing to be considered a victim her whole life, Kimmy decides to live in New York where no one knows that she is, as the media has dubbed her, a mole woman. She stumbles into a job as a babysitter
Hotel of the week The Strand Hotel Strand Road, Bray, 01 2864262 The Strand Hotel have recently launched their new cavery menu and it is packed full of delicious meals including all your favourites. Following your scrumptious meal why not sample their new range of coffees, the perfect way to end any meal. The Strand Hotel was recently sold to Sandra and Gary Freeney. The new team are delighted to be a part of the town and a part of history. The Strand was originally the home of Oscar Wilde, his father Sir William built the family home circa 1850. Sandra and Gary are thrilled to have the opportunity to restore one of Bray’s most famous buildings and they have lots of exciting plans for the future. They look forward to welcoming locals and tourists alike. So why not drop in for a bite to eat and welcome them to the Seafront?
working for Jacqueline Vorhees (Jane Krakowski), a millionaire’s wife countless issues. Probably the show’s best character is Kimmy’s roommate Titus Andromedon (Titus Burgess). Working as a mascot on Times Square, Titus has big dreams of making it on Broadway. Titus is responsible for the series’ most memorable, laugh-out-loud moments. You will find several familiar faces appearing throughout the series, including Fey herself. This is a must watch, if only for the incredibly catchy theme song.
6 7 8 9 10
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MOVIE of the week Home Gaiety Cinema, Arklow From the creators of How to Train Your Dragon comes this hilariously crazy adaptation of Adam Rex’s acclaimed children’s book, The True Meaning of Smekday. The Boov are an alien race desperate for a new place to call home. Under their supremely confident leader, Captain Smek (Steve Martin), they decide the Earth will do just fine. An invasion is launched and all the inconvenient humans are relocated. But a fiesty girl names Tip (Rihanna) manages to avoid the round-up, along with her adorable pet cat. She soon encounters Oh (Jim Parsons) - a lonely, unpopular Boov who has been banished for causing major calamities. An unlikely friendship develops as the odd couple embark on a road trip, during which Oh supercharges Tip’s car and learns that music does funny things to his body. This animated comedy will be a hit with kids and adults alike.
HOROSCOPES with Siobhan Moore Whelan
Foodie idea of the week Cool Beans Various SuperValu stores, www.coolbeancompany.ie The Cool Bean Company create no fuss, no nonsense, superhero food. Cool Beans, our signature product is essentially very very fancy baked beans in three delicious flavours; original tomato, smokey and hot chilli. Cool Beans offers consumers a healthy alternative to a ready meal that is high in protein
and fibre, low in fat, salt and calories, gluten free and quick and easy to make. Cool Beans is completely new on the market and addresses consumers desire to have healthy, tasty and easily prepared comfort food. At 400g, Cool Beans is perfect as a main for one on toast, mash or a baked potato or a side for two with white fish or meatballs. Pictured are co-founders Sarah O’Connor and Isolde Johnson.
fundraiser of the week Strictly From the Movies is set to be a fabulous night as 12 local couples dance their hearts out for an amazing cause, The Gavin Glynn Foundation. The night will be hosted by TV presenter Kamal Ibrahim and the special celebrity judge on the night will be TV3’s Sinead Desmond. The black tie gala has already sold out of tickets but that doesn’t mean that you have missed your chance to raise money for the wonderful Gavin Glynn Foundation. Check out the event on Facebook: Strictly From the Movies - Gavin Glynn Foundation to find links to each couples iDonate page where you can donate as much or as little as you can afford. The Foundation has been set up by the Glynn family in memory of Gavin who tragically lost his battle with cancer last year at the age of four.
Exhibition of the week Cecil King - works from a private collection Courthouse Arts Centre, Tinahely, March 22-April 17 Cecil King was born in Rathdrum, County Wicklow, in 1921. After schooling, he went to work for a printing company. He gradually began to take an interest in art, first as a collector, then as a selftaught practitioner. He died suddenly in 1986. The present exhibition is based on the collection put together by poet and novelist, Hugh Maxton. Thirteen pictures are shown representing progressive stages of the painter’s evolution. Maxton wrote a number of poems relating to these and other works by King, in a strict format. These texts are also on display. King’s work has been acquired by many leading galleries and museums including the Museum of Modern Art, New York; the Victoria & Albert Museum, London; the Tate Gallery, London, and many private and public collections.
Gemini- 2,10,12,19,22,26 Love is in the air! A time for stronger commitments, longterm partnerships and marriage proposals. Cancer-2,16,26,29,36,37 A time for gifts and blessings. This is a time for a very positive new personal beginning and awakening.
Virgo-6,13,23,33,40,41 Virgo known as a hard worker however, pay attention to your other needs-social, personal and spiritual. Libra-1,14,21,27,39,44 Energy is the key word; this provides you with extra motivation and power to move your personal plans forward.
GIG of the week
Composer Vincent Kennedy has been commissioned to engage with four schools across County Wicklow, resulting in The Wicklow Ways - a newly written work for Orchestra comprising 73 young Wicklow musicians performing on violin, recorder, ukulele, guitar, piano and a whole host of drums and tuned percussion instruments. The Wicklow Ways is interspersed with moments
Taurus-4,28,30,33,37,40 New interests and learning continue to be positive themes in your life. Bringing you opportunities to expand your knowledge and make contacts in business.
Leo-5,8,17,19,29,41 Great time for Leo; stimulating new beginning of sorts and upping your personal magnetism to new heights.
Strictly From the movies Parkview Hotel, Newtownmountkennedy, March 29, 6.30pm
The Wicklow Ways Mermaid Arts Centre, Bray, March 22
Aries-8,21,23,34,39,45 New avenues for self-expression can seem to magically open up for you. A time for discovering what makes you truly happy.
where the professional tutors of the young musicians perform specially composed solos that demonstrate their individual virtuosity and put a context to what can be achieved from a music education. The Orchestra comprises violins, recorders, ukuleles, guitar, piano and a whole host of drums and tuned percussion instruments. The music itself, in 11 movements is inspired by the beauty and heritage of Wicklow. Pictured is Saoirse Finnerty from St Kevins Glendalough.
Scorpio- 2,14,29,35,39,43 A time to learn about the world around you and for updating your skills. Leads to excellent finance. Sagittarius-7,10,21,33,41,45 Excellent opportunities for self-expression and adventure. Your social life, friendships and romance, very hectic. Capricorn-7,16,24,28,30,38 Great support around you and much joy with that special person. New opportunity approaching-perhaps travel. Aquarius- 2,15,30,33,35,39 There is great innovation in the world of communications, trade, and promotion. Make hay while the sun shines. Pisces-2,4,6,16,36,37 Research on professional goals, as you are coming to a professional peak where one decision could set your finances soaring. Horoscopes with Siobhan Moore Whelan - Live Psychic & Medium ring 1580997207. Over 18’s with bill payers permission - entertainment purposes. Calls cost €2.44 per minute and may vary on other networks.
12 | NEWS
wicklowvoice.ie March 19 2015
wicklow parades in pictures wicklow p
Gabriele Corballis with her dog Jazzy at the Greystones St Patricks Day Parade
Arklow Majorettes Militare displaying some of their baton skills at the parade in Arklow. Pic Yvette O Beirne
David and Dylan Walsh enjoying his first St Patrick’s Parade in Wicklow Town
Niamh and Louise Mason (age 4) at the Bray Parade. Pic: Joe Keogh
Jada and Daniel Russol give the thumbs up at the Bray Parade. Pic: Joe Keogh
Grace Carton (age 4) at the Bray Parade. Pic: Joe Keogh
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parades in pictures wicklow parades
Amira Twomey all dressed in style at the St Patrick’s Day Parade in Wicklow Town
A marcher from Ardmore Rovers at the Bray Parade. Pic: Joe Keogh
Arklow United Football Club members taking part in the Arklow Parade. Pic Yvette O Beirne
John Ryan and his daughter Hannah (6) at the Bray Parade. Pic: Joe Keogh
Zoe with her dad Tim Kavanagh having a great day enjoying the St Patricks Parade in Wicklow Town
14 |MOTHER AND BABY
wicklowvoice.ie March 19 2015
The facts about Merrion Fertility Clinic
Are you trying to conceive and starting to wonder if there is a problem?
Maybe it’s time to take that first step. Merrion Fertility Clinic is the leader in the area of assisted reproduction and our expertise is matched only by our compassion and support.
Call us to find out more about our new First Step Fertility Check
T (01) 663 5000 | www.merrionfertility.ie
fertility Humans are among the least fertile of any species on earth. Pregnancy is a result of a complex combination of factors and events. When trying to have a baby, the chances of conception in any month of unprotected intercourse are just 20%. For women aged 40, the odds reduce to 5%. When pregnancy doesn’t happen straight away, you may feel a creeping anxiety. And yet, here we all are, which is reason enough for optimism! Here are some suggestions to maximise your chances of conceiving:
Improve your lifestyle. Review your fitness and diet. Plan the best time for conception. Check your medical history to be sure it doesn’t stand in your way. Build your own personal conception plan. For some couples, conceiving a child is relatively simple. Others may need a few extra steps to reach their final goal. If you haven’t conceived after 12 months of trying, (or six months if you’re 35 years or more) consider seeking medical advice. Your doctor will advise whether you need help.
Deciding to seek medical advice may seem like a big deal – an admission that something’s not quite right. But it’s actually a step towards realising your dream to have a baby. That has to be a positive step! Before making a medical appointment it’s important you discuss your fertility plan as a couple. Agree on what action to take. Conception difficulties are just as likely to affect men as they are women. Male infertility is the primary diagnosis in approximately 25% of cases and contributes to a further 15–25% of the remaining cases.
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March 19 2015 wicklowvoice.ie
Pre-Conceive and nutritional advice improves fertility - study Advertorial
MORE than eight out of 10 Irish men tested as part of Europe’s first ever clinical study on the impact of nutritional supplements on male and female fertility showed improvements in their sperm motility as well as reduced cell damage to their sperm. The clinical study on preConceive and the effect on both male and female fertility parameters shows that progressive motility, which measures sperm cells swimming in the right direction, was greatly improved when the supplement was taken over a 90 day period. The study also showed reduced cellular damage to sperm cells throughout the testing period. The 90 day clinical study into pre-Conceive, incorporating a healthier diet and lifestyle, has provided “optimistic results” for the 20 infertile Irish couples who took part, its manufacturers in Wexford say. The independent analysis also indicates better fertility rates in men and women, boasting improvements in DNA and motility, they add. Independent medical expert, Dr David Smallbone is encouraged by the results. “This new study shows that pre-Conceive combined with nutritional and lifestyle advice improves the environment for healthy sperm cell and egg development. “A larger study is required to validate if pre-Conceive can improve overall fertility in patients,” the past President of the Food & Health Section of the Royal Society of Medicine (UK) added. Wexford-based nutritional supplement manufacturers, Pillar Healthcare, worked with fertility specialists, ReproMed Ireland, on the ground-breaking study. It took 3 months and involved 20 Irish couples scattered across the country who have been unable to conceive. Each couple was exclusively selected by ReproMed Ireland who charted their pre-study health, monitored them over the 90 days and conducted the final tests. Independent analysis of the findings shows: sperm cells progressive motility (swimming straight) improved in 85% of men total mobility (swimming in any direction) improved in 79% of men and overall sperm count improved in 71% DNA damage was reduced by 81% in the male samples tested SOD/antioxidant levels im-
Matt Ronan and Mark Whitney - co-founders of Pillar Healthcare proved in 50% of male samples, 60% of females Glutathione Peroxidase, a key indicator of egg and sperm quality, improved in 82% of male and 60% of female samples Vitamin D levels improved in over 85% of males, 82% of females The independent study was overseen by ReproMed Director, Declan Keane and his team. Commenting on the results, Declan Keane said: “The examination of pre-Conceive in male and female fertility was very appealing to us. Any concept that can improve the health of our patients has to be examined. The results themselves, are exciting and intriguing. “The study indicates that preConceive can support and improve key fertility parameters. This being said, a larger study is required to validate these findings and it is good to see Pillar advancing on this. ReproMed entered into research with Pillar Healthcare to investigate the benefit of nutritional supplementation to increase couples natural fertility potential which should improve their natural conception rates. We are happy that a number of core fertility parameters were positively affected by pre-Conceive.” Pillar Healthcare says over 70 Irish couples who have taken pre-Conceive over the last year have contacted them to confirm they have gone on to conceive. Pillar Healthcare is already making waves at home and its market share continues to grow across the UK.
Company MD Mark Whitney is the winner of Ireland’s Best Young Entrepreneur 2014; preConceive was nominated for Best New Product by CAM magazine and pre-Conceive was also nominated for Best New Product by Irish Pharmacy News’ Awards. Mark Whitney believes that the clinically tailored and fully researched supplement can make a vital difference to both men and women. “We were privileged to present these findings to the Association of Clinical Embryologists in Birmingham. It was a great honour to have our results presented in front of such esteemed healthcare and fertility experts. “The results are very encouraging for pre-Conceive but this is only the beginning. We plan to conduct further research in the coming months. The study shows that our therapeutic formula can support men and women trying to conceive. Hopefully, it will continue to do just that. We have already shared our fertility dietary tips online on our own site, www. pillarhealthcare.ie” pre-Conceive is available through pharmacies, health food stores and online. Pillar recommends that couples follow a minimum 90-day programme. Each box contains one month’s supply, containing 30 sachets and the highest strength fish oil on the market. (90 capsules / 3per day). Each 30 day supply costs €170. “pre-Conceive has been designed for anyone planning
to conceive. It is ideal for the couple just beginning their journey as it can lay down all the groundwork for the male to produce ‘strong sperm’, the expectant mum to develop a healthier egg and positively influence the baby’s health. “pre-Conceive is also recommended by our partners in this study, ReproMed for any couple who are ‘sub-fertile’ or having difficulty in conceiving. pre-Conceive can be used in conjunction with any assisted reproduction attempts and has been used successfully in conjunction with IUI, IVF and even ICSI,” Mark Whitney concluded.
16 | LIFESTYLE
wicklowvoice.ie March 19 2015
my favourite things
WHAT’s HOT
with Michelle McGlynn info@wicklowvoice.ie
Rip it up
Students into semi-finals
Sarah Murphy
Shauna Harrison at work
Two Wicklow designers will be amongst 40 competing at the semi-final of Vodafone DIT student designer of the year awards on March 24 in Dublin’s Smock Alley. “Oriental Blossom” which was designed by Shauna Harrison and “Chain Reaction” designed by Sarah Murphy have been selecetd for the prestigious event. Both will be hoping to proceed to the final of the Vodafone DIT Fashion Show in Vicar Street on April 14 when the theme will be “cultural fusion”. Shauna from Newtownmountkennedy studies at the Grafton Academy while Sarah studies at Griffith College.
Debenhams
River Island
TopShop
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March 19 2015 wicklowvoice.ie
recipes
Peter Byrne
Head Chef at Sika Restaurant in The Powerscourt Hotel
QUAIL WITH ASIAN SPICES
For 8 portions
Ingredients 4 quails Seasame oil 200ml Mirin 75ml Soy 75ml Garlic 1 clove finely copped Ginger 2cm piece finely chopped
Chilli 1 chopped 5 spice powder Sechuan pepper
Method: Ask your butcher to take the quails off the bone so the leg and the breast are still intact slide them onto metal skewers Mix all the ingredients except
the 5 spice and the Szechuan pepper marinade the quails in this for 2-3 hours (save a little for the salad dressing) Sprinkle the quails with the ground spice and grill on a chargrill or bbq. Serve with a salad julienne radish, green mango spring onion coriander and dress with the left over marinade
Two of our top eateries make it onto top 100 list By Michelle McGlynn
Two County Wicklow restaurants have made it onto Ireland’s McKenna’s Guides 100 Best Restaurants in Ireland 2015. They are The Happy Pear, Greystones, which is a new entry, and The Strawberry Tree at Brook Lodge, Aughrim. Identical twins David and Stephen Flynn first opened The Happy Pear grocery store in Greystones in 2004. A decade later and they also have an adjoining restaurant, a second location in Shoreline, Greystones and a best selling cookbook to their name. The Happy Pear is all about eating healthy but that doesn’t mean that you have to sacrifice taste, as evidenced by their increasing popularity. The restaurant is committed to using organic, local and seasonal produce and all of the food is
prepared and cooked in-house. It is no surprise to see The Happy Pear on this list as they have been heaped with praise from critics and customers alike with people travelling to Greystones just to eat there. The Strawberry Tree with Evan Doyle at the helm is no stranger to this list and boasts an impressive collection of other awards. The restaurant has been at the fore of organic eating in Ireland for over 25 years. They specialise in wild, foraged, organic and local foods and with these ingredients they create unique, mouthwatering flavours that you are unlikely to find elsewhere. Evan has managed to keep his dishes fresh and modern, ahead of many other restaurants. This is why The Strawberry Tree continues to garner awards and acclaim and will continue to
do so in the future. Other new entries on the 100 Best Restaurants list include Forest Avenue and The Fumbally in Dublin and Cork’s “gourmet street kitchen”, The Food Depot - run by Irish MasterChef winner, Diana Dodog . Mixing cafés, food carts and pizza joints - such as Skinflint in Dublin - in among the cream of the country’s mid-range and Michelin Star restaurants signals just how far Ireland’s casual food scene has come in recent years. However, the 100 Best list is also notable for its exclusions. Dublin restaurant Patrick Guilbaud, Ireland’s only two Michelin Star restaurant, is perhaps the most surprising omission, with Oliver Dunne’s Bon Appetit also absent. “I would be no respecter of Michelin Stars,” John McKenna says.
Cheers! Wicklow Wolf planning US expansion
Local brewer Wicklow Wolf is planning an ambitious expansion into the US which will swell its employee numbers from four to 18. “We have quadrupled capacity since we started and we are now supplying kegs to pubs in Wicklow, Dublin, Wexford, and Kildare, and are selling to 200 off-licences around the country,” says company cofounder Quincey Fennelly. Currently in discussions with a distributor in Northern Ireland, Wicklow Wolf plans to start selling there within a few months and to start supplying the UK market by the end of the year. “We are also looking at Europe and in 2016 we plan to move in to the US,” Mr Fennelly says. The setting up of the company in 2013 was prompted by the growth in the craft beer industry and by an interest in craft beer. Mr Fennelly has previously worked for Ballygowan and C&C, and lived in the US where he brewed home beer and sampled craft beer. Setting up the company with Simon Lynch, a friend with a background in horticulture and
Simon Lynch of Wicklow Wolf an interest in craft beer, they set out to create something distinctive. They chose US-style beer because they both liked it and because not many of the other craft breweries in Ireland were making it. Researching craft beer brewing methods in the US, they planted 10 acres of hops in Wicklow in 2013 before leasing a former bakery off the Quinsboro Road in Bray and convincing a brewer to move to the Garden County from Colorado. Wicklow Wolf’s first product was American Amber ale which they sold in kegs to local pubs,
starting with the Harbour Bar just around the corner. By November, the company began bottling and found a distributor to sell to off-licences. While the craft beer space has become quite crowded in recent years, Wicklow Wolf’s founders believe there are good growth opportunities. They have modelled their company on Scottish craft beer company BrewDog, which is the fastest growing company in the UK in the food and drink space. “There has been 100% growth in craft beer in Ireland in the last 12 months and it is estimated that the market here will grow from 0.8% to 10% in the next five years,” Mr Fennelly says, adding that craft beer is also the fastest growing segment in the global beer market. He says Wicklow Wolf has quadrupled capacity since it started, is now brewing 1,650-litre batches three times a week and selling everything it produces. To grow capacity to start exporting, Mr Fennelly and Mr Lynch say they now need more space and will have to begin looking for a larger premises and further investment.
18 | LIFESTYLE wicklowvoice.ie March 19 2015
The great escape and Why travel agents know best With the dozens of online travel sites and the ability to book directly with almost any airline, hotel or other travel service, it would seem that travel agents might go the way of the dinosaurs. But sometimes, spending hours on the computer searching for the best travel deals gets you results - and other times, it just leads to frustration. When you work with a travel agent, she does that legwork, searching out the travel options that best meet your needs and budget. In most cases, travel agents have access to information about rates and routes that average consumer might not have, saving you time and money, even when you consider the agent’s fee. Using a travel agent can also help you score a great deal on a package or promotion. Agents generally receive information and access to promotions from resorts,
cruise lines and other travel providers that aren’t available to the general public. When you book through an online travel site, you might not be able to get that level of personalised attention, or you could have trouble finding someone who can help you get where you need to be. If something goes wrong when you arrive at your destination, such as your room is unacceptable or the transportation to the resort never shows up, your travel agent can usually resolve those problems. Many travel agents specialise in a particular type of travel, such as cruises, Disney or Europe, and are able to make recommendations and help you plan a trip that meets your needs and budget. Their inside knowledge helps you avoid wasting time and money on the things you’re not interested in, and lets you focus instead on taking the trip.
LIFESTYLE| 19
March 19 2015 wicklowvoice.ie
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20 | ADVERTISEMENT
wicklowvoice.ie March 19 2015
Emma and Suzie Griffin pictured with their parents Glen and Cleo made sure they had the best view of the parade in Arklow. Pic Yvette O Beirne
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e: info@ wicklowvoice.ie w: www. wicklowvoice.ie t: 01 901 5556 or 01 901 5557
NEWS| 21
March 19 2015 wicklowvoice.ie
Local Enterprise Office Grow Your Business Open Day
Pictured at the LEO Wicklow - ‘Grow Your Business’ Open Day in Wicklow County Campus was front: Fiona Flynn, Leonora Earls, Moira Byrne, back: Edel Birminham, Kevin O’Brien and Lorraine Gallagher (all from Wicklow County Council). Pix by Joe Keogh
Gillian McAllister and Tracey Doyle (Wicklow Enterprise Park)
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22 | SPORT sport in brief Bray Emmets The lotto numbers drawn were 21, 5, 2, 9. There was no winner, the next jackpot will be €12,200. Men’s junior football team have resumed training on Wednesday evenings at 7.15pm and Sunday mornings at 10am in Old Conna. Anyone interested in playing is welcome to come to training or contact Ian on 086 85157232. This year Bray Emmets are entering a team in the Wicklow Adult Camogie League. It will be the first time in 35 years that the club has fielded an adult camogie team. If you would like to take part in this great adventure please contact camogiebray@gmail. com. Training is every Wednesday 7.45-9pm on 3G. There will be a Living History talk by the members of the Bray Emmets camogie team who won two senior championships in 1972 and 1974. The talk will be held in Delgany on April 1. Easter camps will be running from March 30 to April 3 for children aged 5-13. Camp will be at Old Conna, Bray from 10am-2pm. Contact Dave Barry on 086 1208083 for details.
wicklowvoice.ie March 19 2015
Arklow Geraldines
Tickets are now available for the Easter Raffle. Please request from any committee member or pick up at training. Academy (U6 boys and girls) starts back on March 21 from 11.15am to 12.15pm on the Astroturf in Pearse Park. Training for U8 boys will also start back on March 21 from 11.15am to 12.15pm on the training pitch at Pearse Park. Best of luck to the AGB Scór Sinsear Ballad Group of Sean O’Conchuir, Geraldine Hamilton, Kathryn Noone and Mary Graham who will travel to Ballymore, Co. Westmeath to compete in the Leinster finals of the Sinsear competition on March 29 at 3pm.
Garden County Academy
The U13 and U14 squad will return to camp this weekend following a break due to Feile activity. The U15 squad will complete their sixth coaching session on Saturday at 10.30am. U17 squad did a gym session then played the U16 squad in a training game. It was a very competitive 30 minutes which proved a worthwhile exercise for both teams. There are plans for more matches between both panels.
An Tóchar
Membership subscriptions are due before March 31 to guarantee insurance cover. Memberships must be paid to Registrar Paul Brady or any member of the committee by this date. Juvenile registration night will be March 23. U12 boys’ training continues each Monday and Friday from 7.15pm-8.15pm. There will be a challenge game on March 20 in Roundwood.
Allianz Cumann na mBunscol
The girls football blitz will take place on March 25 at 1pm in Bray Emmets after it had been cancelled due bad weather. Finals day where we link up with south and West Wicklow has been provisionally set for the week of April 20. Please let Claire Frawley know if you will be attending and with how many teams on 01-2876597. The annual Cumann na mBunscol and Wicklow GAA Games Development Skills competition will take place in different venues after Easter. The West Skill Tests are scheduled for April 15 in Hollywood. The North East Skill Tests are scheduled for April 15 in Bray Emmets. The County Skill Tests Finals are April 22 in Ballinakill.
Annie Conroy of Arklow Geraldines Ballymoney GAA making her way toward the goal after the AGB ladies faced each other in what was truly a local derby, with Terry Canavan taking charge on the pitch at Ballymoney in the Combined Cup opening round. The closing score was 4-7 to 3-3 in favour of AGB 1.
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March 19 2015 wicklowvoice.ie
insideback
with Brian Quigley
There’s always next week … In sport there’s always next week. This is especially true when things have gone wrong. Last weekend wasn’t a good one. Bray Wanderers were playing St Patricks Athletic in Richmond Park on Friday 13 in the SSE Airtricity League Premier Division and a decent result was needed to kickstart their season. Assuming that arrived the next day would continue the party with an Ireland rugby victory over Wales in Cardiff’s Millenium Stadium in the RBS Six Nations. And Ireland’s cricketers would round off a memorable weekend on the Sunday March 15 with a victory over Pakistan that would ensure passage into the Super Eight stage of the Cricket World Cup. We struck out on all fronts. Most spectators were hardly in their seats at Richmond Park before Bray were two down. They held out at this score until half-time and limited their illustrious opponents to a solitary second half effort to settle for a 3-0 defeat, a result that hurt even more given that Bray had gone tamely out of the EA Sports Cup earlier in the week to non-league Crumlin United. Like I said, there’s always next week. This Saturday, March 21 sees Wanderers host Bohemians and we really need a victory here to take our season by the scruff of the neck. Bray also need to avenge being turfed out of the
Leinster Senior Cup this season by Bohemians (a result that has set up a Newtown United versus Bohemians Leinster Senior Cup last-eight tie at the Carlisle Grounds in early May). Ireland versus Wales was an entertaining game of rugby but ultimately some nervous kicking from Sexton, poor lineout technique and a rocksolid Wales defence made the difference. But there’s always next week! Fortunately Ireland still have a shot at the RBS Six Nations championship this weekend when they take on Scotland. They may need a big winning margin and other results to go their way but it still possible. Having had an excellent Cricket World Cup it all came done to a showdown in Adelaide with Pakistan on Sunday morning last to decide whether Ireland would be joining England and Scotland on the plane home after the Group stages. Unfortunately it wasn’t to be for the Blarney Army. Having won the toss Ireland chose to bat first and set Pakistan a weak total of 237 for their 50 overs, a total Pakistan passed without really breaking a sweat. No disgrace for Ireland. They have done us proud, punching well above their weight at this level. I for one will be at the airport to cheer them home. By Sunday afternoon it was last chance saloon time for some
positive playing Four of League
results. Wicklow were Longford in Division the National Football in Aughrim, and our
hurlers were on the road in Mullingar taking on Westmeath in the National Hurling League Division 2A. In keeping with
how the rest of the weekend had gone, the Garden County drew a blank on both fronts, with the hurlers going down by 2-10
to Westmeath’s 1-22, and the footballers losing out by 1-10 to 1-16. Roll on next week.
Greystones Bank of Ireland Enterprise Town
Ireland’s Enterprise Bank and the business community of Greystones are working together to enable business locally. Friday 20th March - Business Expo: Let’s Connect! Shoreline Sports Complex, Greystones, Co. Wicklow, 2.30pm – 7pm
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Simon Harris, TD, Minister of State at the Department of Finance and Taoiseach formally launches the event
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Main guest speakers: Paul McNeive, Motivational Speaker and Irish Independent Opinion Columnist John Brophy, Carrig Infrastructure Solutions Ltd., Stephen & David Flynn, The Happy Pear Café Sheelagh Daly, Local Enterprise Office
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Over 80 local businesses exhibiting
Saturday 21st March - Sports & Community Expo: Let’s Connect! Shoreline Sports Complex, Greystones, Co. Wicklow, 10am – 1.30pm
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Katie Taylor, Reigning Irish, European, World and Olympic Boxing Champion formally launches the event, followed by a Q&A session
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Local Primary School art competition - Katie Taylor presents winner’s medals
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Over 50 community groups exhibiting
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Also includes a variety of performances and demonstrations and lots more fun for all the family
@BOIbusiness #LetsConnect
Grow Greystones A Bray Wanderers player battles against St Patricks Athletic in Richmond Park last Friday
Bank of Ireland is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland
24| ADVERTISING
wicklowvoice.ie March 19 2015
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