Wicklow Voice May 21 2015

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wicklowvoice.ie May 21 2015

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Cut! We miss out on €110m blockbuster

By Michelle McGlynn

IT appears Wicklow has lost out on a $120m (€110m) Hollywood blockbuster following Dark Knight producer Philip Lee’s decision to pick a Limerick location for his new project.

The producer of the Batman film visited Limerick in recent weeks as he scouted locations for his upcoming sci-fi film, Inversion.

This visit coincided with the confirmation that Limerick City and County Council are finalising negotiations to purchase a facility which it hopes to develop into a major studio in partnership with Bray’s Ardmore Studios.

Innovate Limerick, a company owned by the local authority, are in the final stages of purchasing the old Dell building in Castletroy.

It is intended to lease the facility to Ardmore Studios for five years with an option to purchase the property.

The venture will create 750

permanent jobs for the Limerick area and will generate around €80m for the local economy.

The loss of Lee’s Inversion might be the first in a line of productions to bypass Wicklow in favour of the new Limerick studio as the team of producers who visited with Mr Lee are said to be keen to base several big-budget productions there.

The sci-fi film, set for release in 2016, will be directed by Scott Waugh, whose last movie Need for Speed grossed $200m worldwide. The Hollywood producer’s interest in the studio as a filming location will add an urgency to the negotiations.

Last week, Cllr John Brady expressed his concerns about the future of the Wicklow film industry and called for a €15m infrastructure fund to be established to create additional studio space in the county.

“Any attempt to lure Ardmore Studios to Limerick must be fought,” he said.

Continued on page 19

‘Baby Bear’ Lily Cahill at The Great Bear Chain in Greystones at the weekend where organisers lined up 5,208 teddies along the seafront - see page 6.

Pic: Sheena Griffin Photography » Lots more pictures from around the county inside

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04| NEWS news in brief Monopoly champ

wicklowvoice.ie May 21 2015

The President he came to call on us

The Monopoly World Championships are coming to Wicklow Gaol on May 31.

In honour of the board games 80th birthday, a double-decker bus fitted with ten Monopoly tables will travel the world, holding regional heats until an overall champion is crowned.

Bob’s birthday The Hot Spot Music Club are celebrating Bob Dylan’s birthday on May 23, the eve of his birthday, at 9pm. Tickets are €12/€10.

The Hot Spot house band and a treasure trove of guest musicians will come together to perform some of Dylan’s best known hits.

Choral classics The Wicklow Male Voice Choir will be joined by Eastern Kentucky University Concert Choir at St Patrick’s Church in Greystones on May 23 at 8pm in aid of St Catherine’s Association.

Tickets are €10 and can be purchased from Bridie Mooney’s shop, Greystones; Earl’s Newsagents, Wicklow Town or St Catherine’s Association on 086 4661487.

President Michael D Higgins, his wife Sabina and Carol Acton, from Foxrock, at Kilmacurragh House. Picture Colm Mahady / Fennells President Michael D. Higgins received a warm welcome when he visited the Garden County this week.

President Higgins and his wife, Sabina were on hand to officially open the tea rooms at Kilmacurragh House and Gardens.

The couple enjoyed a tour of the historic and world renowned gardens with Seamus O’Brien, the Manager of Kilmacurragh.

Director of the National Botanic Gardens in Glasevin,

Matthew Jebb and Minister of State, Simon Harris also took part in the tour.

The Acton Cafe has been named in honour of the Acton family who had owned the estate.

It is hoped that the addition of the tea rooms as well as increased signage and improved parking will attract tourists to what is considered to be Wicklow’s “hidden gem”.

Kilmacurragh is an outpost of the National Botanic

Gardens. The Arboretum is famous for its conifers and calcifuges and it provides a counterpoint to the collections at Glasnevin.

“I am glad to see that the unique offering of this old demesne is being recognised,” said Fine Gael TD Andrew Doyle.

“The team at Kilmacurragh work very hard to preserve and show it off as one of the best examples of botanic gardens and arboretum in Europe.”

Bye, bye to blockbuster Continued from previous page

“I believe it’s unethical for one local authority to try to poach existing industry from another local authority,” he added.

Speaking to the Wicklow Voice, Andrew Doyle TD said that efforts to ensure Wicklow remains at the forefront of the Irish filming industry have been ongoing.

Doyle has been pushing hard for Wicklow to be recognised as the Film Capital of Ireland.

“I have written to both Ministers Bruton and Kelly and emphasised the need to recognise Wicklow for what it is, ie The Film Capital of Ireland.

In relation to the news of Lee’s Inversion filming in Limerick, Doyle took a realistic outlook.

“We cannot have exclusive rights to expect that all movies and major productions will be based in the county ... In this case, however it would appear that the location is being selected on the criteria of the availability of expansive studio space, an existing building, not a new one.”

“For this reason I believe it is imperative that the expert review group would conclude its work as quickly as possible.”

Gardai in warning to teens over use of ecstasy

By Michelle McGlynn

Local Garda Declan Lynch has warned teens to be safe when they are on nights out.

This warning follows the tragic news of the death of 18-year-old student Ana Hick (pictured) from Dun Laoghaire last weekend.

Speaking to the Wicklow Voice, Garda Lynch reiterated the risks involved in alcohol and substance abuse.

“If you take something you run the risk of something terrible happening to you, you are essentially playing a lottery with your life,” explained Garda Lynch. “The consequences affect, not only you, but your family and friends.”

When it comes to illegal drugs, the advice is to steer clear as they are all potentially fatal.

“In the pharmaceutical industry there are codes of standard which must be met before a product can be released to the public. But when it comes to drugs being distributed on the streets, you have no idea what could it could be laced with.

These are unscrupulous,” Garda Lynch warned.

In addition to the risk of unknown substances being consumed when taking these substances, an individual is completely unaware of how their body may react to a certain drug. Allergic reactions to drugs can be potentially life threatening. This time of year is always of heightened

concern for Gardai as students are celebrating graduations and end of exams. Ana had been on a night out with friends in the Twisted Pepper, Middle Abbey Street when she collapsed on the street outside the club at 3am on Saturday.

She was taken to the Mater Hospital but was pronounced dead at 5.30pm on Sunday.

At the time of going to press, Gardai were awaiting postmortem and toxicology results to establish the cause of death.

It is thought that she may have taken two ecstasy-type pills.

In response to claims that there might be a batch of contaminated drugs on the streets, Gardai had this to say: “An Garda Síochána has not made any official comment in relation to whether contaminated illegal drugs are available for sale in Dublin or elsewhere.”

Ana was laid to rest on Wednesday morning, the day after she would have celebrated her nineteenth birthday.

Wicklow in Bloom

By Michelle McGlynn

The Garden County will be represented at Bloom 2015 as Hugh Ryan from Aughrim reveals his garden, Footfall.

Hugh’s garden is a sleek, stylish and crisp design which involved eight vertical timber panels on which an array of actual stiletto shoes will be fixed to.

The food and drinks industry in Wicklow will be well represented at the festival as 250kal Foods, Janet’s Country Fayre, Handmade Nougat, Gran Clarke’s Bakery, Ohco Organic Herb, The Happy Pear, Glendalough Irish Whiskey and Wicklow Wolf Brewery will all be attending. Bloom 2015 takes place in Phoenix Park, Dublin from May 28-June 1.

NEWS |05

May 21 2015 wicklowvoice.ie

wicklow people in pictures

Alanagh Venables, Saoirse Ryan, Sophie Gallagher, Emily Jennings, Laura Gammell, Clodagh Lacey, Nicole Cummins and Alice Gray at Emily’s 21st birthday in the Castle Inn, Newcastle. Photo by John McGowan

Ashford Irish Countrywoman’s Association President Margaret Stephens presenting a fundraising cheque for Vasculitis Ireland Awareness to Brigid Cahill (left) which raised €2400

All smiles at Jamie Spillane’s baby shower in The Martello Hotel. Photo by John McGowan

Geoff Kane, Deirdre Whitfield, Michael Nicholson and Noel Keyes at the launch of the Wicklow Arts Festival brochure at County Buildings

Shane Garvey from Arklow was only too happy to check out some of the vintage tractors that were on display during the Annual Classic car show in Arklow (pic Yvette O Beirne)

Fiona Toolan and Rafa Scully (3) out and about in Greystones.

Kevin Ryan with his wife Deirdre at his exhibition at Signal Arts Centre

06| NEWS news in brief Sponsored walk South Wicklow Wind Action Group are holding a 9k sponsored walk at the Ballymanus Loop on June 21.

If you would like to obtain a sponsorship card, contact John O’Driscoll on 087 7539476 or Jack Lynch on 087 9417642.

wicklowvoice.ie May 21 2015

TeddyBearEssentials

AIMS festival Bray Choral Society are taking part in the Association of Irish Musical Societies choral festival 2015 in New Ross, Co Wexford. The festival takes place from May 22-24.

Best of luck to all members.

New playground A playground and recreational area has been approved for Merrymeeting, Rathnew by Wicklow County Council.

The space will cater for children up to 18 years of age, include equipment for children with disabilities, Park Cour pieces, a BMX facility and a kick-about area.

Minister Simon Harris has welcomed the news saying, “I look forward to construction of the playground and recreational area commencing.”

Connie Bowman (5) at the bear day in Greystones

First Communion day at The Great Bear Chain

Ella Griffin gets a big bear hug!

By Michelle McGlynn It’s another record for The Caroline Foundation.

Last Sunday, teddy bears of all shapes and sizes made their way to Greystones seafront to create Ireland’s longest ever bear chain.

A total of 5,208 teddies lined the seafront under the watchful eye of Greystones resident Beach Bear. The colourful line of bears was a sight to behold and they were even joined at one point by adorable baby Lily Cahill who was masquerading as a cuddly little cub.

It was a fantastic day out as people from all over came together to help break a record, enjoy some music and entertainment and most importantly, raise money for two local causes.

Rufus and Big Ted The money raised from the event will go towards cancer research charity The Caroline Foundation and Lakers for Special Needs Children and Adults.

The sun shone as people arrived and saw their own special bear join in a chain that represented community and hope. The entire community came together to support the wonderful event including the volunteers, the Gardai, Knights of Malta, Bray Gospel Choir and Greystones Tidy Towns who helped to prepare the seafront for the event.

This was the second record breaking event held

by The Caroline Foundation who last year broke the Guinness World Record for Longest Ribbon Chain.

More picrures on page 16

Parking survey is just the ticket

By Michelle McGlynn

Do you have an opinion on car parking in the county?

Well, Wicklow County Council want to hear from you.

The people of Wicklow, especially motorists and businesspeople, are being asked to participate in a survey which is aimed at identifying any problems which may exist and the requirements of all stakeholders. The survey, which closes on May 29, covers Bray, Greystones,

Arklow and Wicklow Town.

The review of the parking management systems follows the amalgamation of the four town councils with Wicklow County Council.

Parking management is vital to the running of a town as it ensures proper circulation of traffic, footfall for businesses and availability of secure, accessible and reasonably priced parking.

The Council are seeking to maintain a balance with the need to make the towns more

people focused rather than car focused.

Retaining the unique character and heritage of each town is paramount.

The option of using mobile technology to make parking easier will be explored.

People can take part in the survey online at www.wicklow. ie or by post: Car Parking Review, for the attention of Christine Flood, Senior Executive Officer, Wicklow County Council, County Buildings, Wicklow.

May 21 2015 wicklowvoice.ie

advertising |07

08| NEWS news in brief Climb Maulin There will be a sponsored and guided walk of Maulin mountain on May 24, meeting at Crone car park, Enniskerry at 10am.

The medium difficulty walk is in aid of Wicklow Hospice Foundation, Greystones Cancer Support and Sugarloaf Lions Club.

For details contact Michael Lambe on 086 3727186.

Start-up funding

wicklowvoice.ie May 21 2015

‘All around us was utter chaos, people screaming, roads split, buildings flattened’

Organisations and individuals across Wicklow are being encouraged to apply for funding to support start-up businesses as part of the Government’s Regional Action Plan for Jobs.

Application forms are available on the Enterprise Ireland website and the closing date is July 10 at 6pm.

Asian/Irish fest The Asian/Irish Cultural Festival Bray will be held on May 24 from 1pm-6pm in the Harbour Bar, Bray.

There will be Asian food, Irish music and free workshops including Let’s Try Origami, Let’s Make a St Brigid’s Cross and Sushi Surprise.

Ronan, right in Nepal, and his team were forced to set up tents outside their hotel following the quake

Local climber who survived Nepal quake terror launches tent appeal

By Michelle McGlynn

As Greystones native, Ronan Friel, wandered around a small market in Kathmandu on the morning of April 25 the place was pitched into darkness and he knew something was wrong.

Ronan had travelled with a group to Kathmandu as a medic and guide as they climbed to Everest base camp and a peak called Imja Tse. He is an experienced climber and an active mountain rescue medic.

After the intense climb and a couple of frostbitten toes, Ronan was set to enjoy a few days of relaxation and sightseeing in Kathmandu but it was not to be.

In the market with a member of the trip, Magda, the shaking began.

“The whole thing was completely surreal,” Ronan told the Wicklow Voice. “The market was made of bamboo with plastic sheeting over the top and tyres holding it down.

“We knew the structure was unstable and we had to get out of there.”

They made a dash for the nearest exit and then followed some locals to an open space free of overhead lines, one man explained that they should sit down and wait as there would be aftershocks.

“My adrenaline was pumping.

I couldn’t stop shaking. All around us was utter chaos, people screaming and crying, roads were split apart, buildings flattened,” explained Ronan.

After four to five hours trying to make their way back to the city, the pair managed to find somewhere to take a break and managed to contact family and the rest of their team.

Tremors continued throughout the day.

When they returned to the hotel, thankfully their Sherpa was there with tents that they could set up in a waste area behind the hotel.

For the next three nights,

Ronan and his group stayed in the tents venturing out for food and water.

“As we walked around, we saw neighbourhoods completely decimated,” Ronan informed the Wicklow Voice.

Since returning home, Ronan has begun an appeal to help those still struggling to survive in Kathmandu who have endured a second earthquake in the meantime.

“I know I am lucky to have made it home safely and I’m very grateful but I cannot help but feel a little guilty too,” Ronan revealed.

Ronan is appealing for anyone who has a tent, in good condition, to donate it to those who have been displaced and will be without a home for the foreseeable future.

If you can help, contact Ronan on 087 9657117 or ronanfrielltd@gmail.com.

Drop-offs can be arranged in Roundwood and Greystones at short notice.

ADVERTISING |09

May 21 2015 wicklowvoice.ie

Powerscourt Arms - 300 Years Young

The Powerscourt Arms Country House are celebrating their 300th birthday this year and they would like you to join them in celebrating this milestone.

The intimate country house in picturesque Enniskerry has been offering quality services to guests both local and from abroad since 1715.

Offering luxury accommodation, a cosy lounge and bar as well as two private function rooms, the Powerscourt Arms Country House is a popular spot for weddings.

The newly opened restaurant, The Grape Vine, serve up a range of mouthwatering dishes.

Specialising in steak and seafood, The Grape Vine source local seafood from their fishmonger and select cuts from their master

butcher. Each dish is perfectly prepared by their experienced team of chefs and served in intimate surroundings along with choice wines and craft beers.

In conjunction with their 300th birthday celebrations, the Enniskerry Food and Art festival is taking place in Enniskerry village from May 22-24.

The action packed weekend has lots to offer kicking off with a GAA fundraiser Rock the Village in the Marquee at Powerscourt Arms from 7.30pm on Friday.

There will be music throughout the weekend as well as art exhibitions, food and craft stalls, a bake-off and a car display courtesy of Spirit Motors.

All proceeds from the weekend will go towards the Town Clock Restoration Fund.

10 | OPINION

opinion&comment

Equality in marriage is good for all

M

arriage equality is good for society and reinforces family values because it is about commitment.

It benefits all of us.

The Referendum on May 22 is about promoting, protecting and cherishing the institution of marriage and ensuring that all of us have the right to marry.

I don’t believe that we can continue to exclude people from marrying on the basis of their sexual orientation. I know many people who are gay here in Wicklow and beyond. I am not prepared to look them in the eye and tell them that they are second class citizens. I also know lots of people who have gay family members. Who am I to say that their son or daughter should be denied the right to marry the person they love?

Opponents of same sex marriage frequently claim that it is a threat to the institution of marriage. I have tried and failed to understand this rationale.

Spousal abuse, adultery, alcoholism – these are all issues which are a threat to marriage. Two people who love each other entering into a lifelong commitment is not a threat to marriage.

Far from it being a threat, I’d say that same sex marriage strengthens the institution of marriage because it makes it accessible to a significant portion of society which up to now has been excluded from marrying. Marriage equality benefits all of us because society is stronger when we commit to each other and support each other.

Some people have expressed surprise that Fine Gael is so engaged in the campaign to introduce marriage equality. I would argue that supporting marriage equality is entirely consistent with a Party that strongly values family and community.

Throughout history people have been denied the right to marry to certain people based on their race, religion or sexuality.

The Penal Laws prevented an Irish Catholic who fell in love with an Irish Protestant from getting married. A white person who fell in love with a black person could not get married in parts of America less than fifty years ago. All sorts of arguments were made against changing these laws.

Yet here we are in 2015, where countless Catholics marry Protestants; white people marry black people and society is all the better for it. What drove the opposition to this equality? Fear of change.

There is nothing to fear from allowing people to marry those who they love.

There is nothing to fear from treating every committed, long-term relationship equally. There is nothing to fear from extending this right to all couples. It won’t affect existing marriages in any way. Neither will it in any way affect the institution of marriage or the rights of married couples. The referendum will have no impact whatsoever on children. It solely relates to the right of two people of the same sex to marry.

This referendum is about allowing people to marry the person they fall in love with. Marriage is a public statement that two people want to spend their lives together.

We live in a Republic. Our forbearers fought to have that right and to secure it for us and future generations. The Constitution of our Republic states clearly that we are all equal under the law. It guarantees religious and civil liberty, equal rights and equal opportunities to all its citizens.

It couldn’t be clearer. A yes vote on May 22 will ensure this right is vindicated. I believe that the essential decency of people will ensure that we do this.

Andrew Doyle TD is a member of Dáil Éireann and is Chairman of the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Agriculture, Food and the Marine. He was previously a member of Wicklow County Council from 1999 – 2007 and was Cathaoirleach of Wicklow from 2005 to 2006. He and his wife, Ann, have four children.

This referendum is about allowing people to marry the person they fall in love with

“T

As a supporter of marriage equality, this worries me.

The Yes campaign contains a high percentage of young people who will talk the talk but may not walk the walk as far as the local school, or wherever voting takes place Tweets of the week

Colm Tobin @colmtobin “Ah, nothing says SUMMER like the sight of a fat, happy little farmer emerging from a petrol station with a 99.”

Rob & Dave Kearney @boringkearney “This morning I didnt bother taking the crusts off my bread #thuglife” Jason Byrne @thejasonbyrne "Am I the only person in the world that can’t work out where game of thrones is supposed to be set. Is it the north south of England Bahamas?"

Donald Clarke @ DonaldClarke63 “Overheard: “Oh, I just ignored the queue and pushed through. I suppose everyone hates me.” “Hate” is too small a word. #Cannes2015”

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 Andrew Doyle with Michael Wolsey

Poll position is no guarantee of vote success he Yes camp is in pole position for Friday’s marriage equality referendum. Or should that be poll position? Every survey, since long before the campaign started, has shown them ahead and, although the gap has narrowed, they still retain the lead.

But polls can get it wrong, as the British general election so dramatically proved.

A poll is an accurate snapshot of public opinion on the day it is taken but people can change their minds or - and this is more common - they can lie to the pollsters.

The most frequent cause of poll inaccuracy, however, is neither defection nor deceit. It is indifference. People state honestly how they intend to vote but, come the day, find they have something better to do or, as often as not, just can’t be bothered getting off their backsides and down to the polling station.

As a supporter of marriage equality, this worries me. The Yes campaign contains a high percentage of young people who will talk the talk but may not walk the walk as far as the local school, or wherever voting takes place.

The No camp, by contrast, has a high percentage of older voters who say little because they are of an age when it was normal to keep your own counsel, not share it with the world on social media.

But they will have been at Mass. They will have listened to the letters of the bishops. And they will most certainly vote. I hope I am wrong about the indifference of young people when it comes to actually casting a vote as against discussing the issue on Facebook or Twitter.

But an opinion poll (what else?) bears me out.

It was conducted by the marketing agency Thinkhouse and I read about it on the Wicklow Voice website, so it must be true. It found that only 81% of potential electors in the 18 to 35 age group were registered to vote. More shockingly, it found that while 90% of respondents in this age sector would like to see a Yes vote for marriage equality only 55% were likely to cast a ballot on May 22.

By coincidence, this age category is the one with the biggest direct interest in Friday’s other referendum - to lower the age at which a person can become President of Ireland from 35 to 21.

Eamon de Valera put the age restriction in the Constitution, possibly because he himself was 36 when elected Dáil President by the Sinn Fein dominated parliament of 1918. It would have ruled out Michael Collins, who was 31 when he died.

I can’t imagine anyone under the age of 35 seriously wanting to be President of Ireland but neither can I think of any good reason why they should be barred from standing.

Indeed, I don’t understand why the government is not trying to lower the age to 18, the age when a young man or woman can vote - or join the defence forces.

Bernadette Devlin was elected to the Westminster parliament when she was 21 and the youngest MP there now is 20-year-old Mhairi Black of the Scottish Nationalist Party. America’s youngest elected politician is 18-year-old Saira Blair who represents West Virginia in Congress.

Michael O’Leary was running Ryanair before he was 35. Ben Dunne hadn’t reached 35 when he took over his father’s retail chain and doubled its size.

Bill Gates was running Microsoft before he was 35. Mary Quant turned the world of fashion upside down before she was 35.

All this is not to say I would want to vote for a 21-year-old as President. I think the office is better in the hands of a more experienced person. But there are lots of characteristics I don’t approve of in a President. I might not vote for a candidate who has them but I don’t think that should bar him or her from standing.

I will be voting Yes in both of Friday’s referendums. Sadly a lot of young people people won’t be voting at all.

I find their attitude bewildering - maybe because I grew up in Belfast at a time when people believed in voting early and often. I never tried that, but I have to admire their enthusiasm, if not their ethics.

So, in salute, let me end with this completely irrelevant yarn spun by the best political story-teller I have heard, the late Gerry Fitt, Republican Labour MP. In 1958 he was elected to Belfast City Council by a narrow majority – 10 votes according to Gerry, who never let mere detail get in the way of a good story.

He had campaigned on a platform of integrity and for a new approach to politics and was feeling quite pleased with himself until a man came up to shake his hand.

“Well done Gerry,” he said. “You won by 10 votes - and I’m proud to say I was eight of them.’’

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

OPINION| 11

May 21 2015 wicklowvoice.ie

anyotherbusiness

Have you got a story?

Then email info@wicklowvoice.ie

focus on faces Eamon Morrissey Actor How’s life?

Life is very good at the moment, even for 72 years old! I’m working more than I probably should but I’m definitely not complaining.

Tell us a bit about your upcoming play, Maeve’s House.

The play is based on the life of Irish short story writer, Maeve Brennan. She is known as one of the world greats when it comes to short stories. She moved to New York and was a staff writer on The New Yorker Magazine during its literary heyday. Her career was at its peak in the 1940s-1960s. She was the toast of the literary scene in Manhatten. Unfortunately, her career went into decline in the 60s and 70s and her life became quite tragic. She suffered both physical and mental illnesses and essentially became a bag lady at one point. She died, unknown and forgotten, in a New York nursing home.

Pictured at Avondale Forest Park for the Coillte Green Ribbon Walk are L-R Cllr. Pat Fitzgerald, Bill Murphy, Coillte, Charlie Burke, Coillte and Andrew Doyle TD : Over 400 participated in the Let’s Talk and Walk event at Avondale Forest Park, hosted

by Coillte in support of the Green Ribbon campaign. The aim of the Green Ribbon campaign is to make the month of May, every year, synonymous with promoting open conversation about mental health and challenging the stigma of mental health issues. Photo - Mark Harrison

Russborough sales paint the picture of our times

T

he sale of the Russborough House paintings is necessary and is a sign of times we live in, where everyone has to pay their way. The criticism the Alfred Beit Foundation (ABF) has come in for (particularly from the Irish Georgian Society whose representative on the board of the ABF resigned in protest at the move) since it announced the sale (to take place in July in Christie’s in London) has been excessive and totally unjustified.

Let’s put things in perspective. Only of a small selection of the collection is to be sold and the paintings concerned haven’t been on public view for some time for security reasons (the collection has been the victim of numerous robberies over the years, including one by the IRA). The National Gallery of Ireland, which owns the bulk of the Alfred Beit collection, has other paintings by the artists whose work is being sold anyway.

The sale is happening for a reason – so that Russborough House can be maintained as the splendid tourist attraction we know and love. I know there

Brian Quigley are 24,000 paying visitors to the house every year, but with 20 employees and such a huge property to maintain, I’m not surprised to learn that it is operating at a loss. There is no alternative source of funding income (other than the sale) given that funds for the arts are tight in the present economic climate.

For my money, maintaining Russborough House is the priority. It itself is a work of art, a marvellous standing example of Palladian architecture, the longest house in Ireland. To visit it you have to go through a particularly beautiful part of our beautiful county, being situated as it is near the Blessington lakes between Blessington and Ballymore Eustace. There is something in a visit for everyone, young and old – guided tours of the house, the maze and

walkways, the historic basement exhibition, the grounds and playground, the sheepdog demonstrations and occasional Farmers Markets. Preserving all this is the challenge, and the ABF have stepped up to the plate to do this by taking the brave step of selling some of the paintings.

Most people will be familiar with the phrase “they’re a selling club” in soccer. It’s where a smaller club is forced to sell on any players they produce that show signs of being able to get to the very top of the game. The club, its fans and other players don’t want the star player to go but accept it as a fact of life that if you are Rochdale or Crewe Alexandra and Manchester United knock on the door with their cheque-book open, you accept their cash with both arms open wide. The money is needed to keep the smaller club going, as they cannot survive on gate receipts alone.

The same kind of thing is happening with the sale of the selection of Russborough House paintings. More than €11m should be raised by the sale, with the Rubens (Head of a Bearded Man) chipping in the most at around €3m.

In an ideal world money concerns wouldn’t intrude as much

as they do in real life. You’d pay your tax and after that you wouldn’t need to put your hand in your pocket other than to spend money on yourself. Your car wouldn’t need to be taxed – the government would thank you for having one to get yourself to work. Banks wouldn’t need to charge us excessive interest on our mortgages just so they can demonstrate profitability post the banking collapse.

Maybe the government would give you an interest-free mortgage, the actual interest being written off against goodwill to thank you for being a working citizen helping to keep the country going.

There’d be no need for water charges or putting your hand in your pocket when you went to the GP – you’d have paid your contribution already just by working your job and paying income tax.

Unfortunately we don’t live in a Utopia. We have to make the best of the real world, and occasionally this means having to take painful decisions like the one the ABF have taken.

The legacy of Sir Alfred and Lady Beit will shine on brightly as long as Russborough House is maintained, as long as it is alive and thriving with scores of visitors.

You have an interesting connection with Maeve Brennan, don’t you?

Yes, my childhood home on Cherryfield Avenue in Ranelagh was also her childhood home. My parents bought the house from Maeve’s parents in 1934 when they left for Washington.

Maeve set many of her stories in Cherryfield Avenue. My mother was fond of her stories and always tried to get copies of them. It wasn’t easy to get your hands on The New Yorker back then, it was considered quite a luxury. I remember once I was sitting on the subway in New York, reading one of her stories and I felt the hairs on my neck stand on end. To read these stories which were set in my own home was incredible.

I made contact with her when I was living in the US. I was on Broadway with Brian Friel’s Philadelphia: Here I Come at the time. We met for tea in The Russian Tea Rooms. She had a fearsome reputation so it was quite a daunting prospect but she was very pleasant. I’m glad I had the opportunity to meet with her before she passed.

Working on something you have such a personal connection to must be wonderful.

I’ve had the idea in my head since the 1960s. The Abbey Theatre commissioned it and then we were able to work together to make it a reality. Aisling Mooney, who is Head of Production with The Abbey, is a huge fan of Maeve’s works herself. I hope that through doing this play we can encourage even just a few people to look up Maeve Brennan’s books.

Do you find a one-man show thrilling or daunting?

Both. It can be thrilling when it works but it can also be a lonely place on stage. I’ve been doing one-man shows since the 70s. I think the solo artist has their place in theatre but it doesn’t compare to a symphony orchestra. They are equally good and equally enjoyable.

Any plans once you have finished your tour with Maeve’s House?

I have some plans but nothing I can really talk about just yet.

I will be heading back to Fair City. It’s safe to say, I haven’t hung up my boots just yet. For now I’m just delighted to be touring Maeve’s House as part of the Bealtaine Festival. It is a wonderful festival that encourages older people to get creative.

Whether that is painting, writing or whatever else. It’s just giving people the encouragement to get out and try something new, maybe even discover a hidden talent. I truly believe in the aims of the festival which is why I’ve been involved with them for so many years.

Eamon Morrissey currently lives in Dalkey, Co Dublin with his wife, Anne. Eamon has been a part of the Irish theatre and television landscape since the 1960s. He has performed in over 100 productions with the Abbey Theatre and spent time on Broadway. He currently plays the role of Cass in Fair City. Maeve’s House will be coming to the Mermaid Arts Centre, Bray on May 22 and 23 at 8pm. Tickets €18/€16. To book call 01 2724030 or see www.mermaidartscentre.ie.

1 2 3 4 5

12 | WHAT’S HOT WILDLIFE

with Justin Ivory

Photo by J.C. Ivory

Much Maligned Magpie The Magpie, or the Eurasian Magpie (Pica pica), has been cast in the role of Bête Noir, the helpless victim of bad press and urban myth. A recent article

by Henry Nicholls on BBC Earth website sets the record straight.

Myth Number 1 The Magpie is a rampant kleptomaniac, making off with our shiny and precious objects to line their nests.

We are familiar with “The Thieving Magpie” (La Gazza Ladra) - the opera by Rossini which in turn was based on a melodrama called “La Pie Voleuse” written by two French playwrights in 1815. In these stories a servant is sentenced to death for stealing silverware from her master when the real culprit is the masters’ pet Magpie! From this the public perception of the Magpie having “sticky fingers” or should that be “sticky claws” was born.

Truth Number 1 In recent experiments, Magpies were given two piles of nuts, one beside shiny objects and one beside objects painted a dull blue.

The birds were briefly distracted by the objects, but were not drawn to the shiny objects over the blue or made off with any of the objects.

Myth Number 2 Magpies are wanton destroyers of the eggs, and ruthless, merciless killers of the young of songbirds. They wreak havoc on songbird populations and are single handily responsible for the demise of some of our favourite species.

Truth Number 2 Yes, it is certainly true that Magpies eat songbird eggs and their chicks. But there is no evidence that Magpies predation of songbirds have resulted in a decline in their populations. Several long term studies in the UK looking at the population densities and breeding successes of Magpies and 15 species of songbirds have shown no obvious effect.

In reality, any decline in songbird numbers is due to degradation and loss of habitat, and domestic cats.

So the next time you see a Magpie, don’t “Tut-Tut” and shake your head. Stop.

Observe. Admire the beauty of its plumage. Be fascinated by its intelligence. And leave it be!

wicklowvoice.ie May 21 2015

Sale of the week Castle Furniture 8 Castle Street, Bray, 01 2813616, www.castlefurniture.ie Don’t miss promotion madness at Castle Furniture. Right now, when you buy a Respa pocket 1,200 mattress and a Respa base you will receive a free headboard, drawers, delivery and disposal. The double is down €236 to €579 while the king size is down €260 to €659. Be sure to avail of this offer before it ends because it is one that you don’t want to miss. Visit their website for a sample of the quality ranges of furniture they have on offer. If you would like to view their full range, drop into their showroom where a member of their team would be delighted to show you around. Castle Furniture deal exclusively with Irish suppliers. They strive to deliver items within ten days and have many products for immediate delivery.

NEW Shop of the week Intersport Elverys Bridgewater Shopping Centre, North Quay Arklow, www.bridgewatercentre.ie The new Intersport Elverys opened this week at Bridgewater Shopping Centre. Following extensive refurbishment including the installation of a lift, Intersport Elverys have rebranded and have almost doubled in size. They have introduced new ranges including Regatta, Dare 2b and Craghoppers which are great brands for all outdoor, hiking and performance wear. The Intersport brand brings exciting exclusives to Arklow with a wide selection of Pro Touch Athletics wear. Of course Intersport Elverys continue to offer a comprehensive range of footwear for athletics, GAA jerseys and official IRFU brands. Store manager Kenneth Redmond says “Our new Intersport Elverys will be a onestop shop for all sporting requirements and outdoor activity wear in Wicklow from football boots to treadmills to Regatta Malawai pop up tents.” Pictured are Eddie Condon, Cormac Kelly and Kenneth Redmond.

book of the week Selfish

By Kim Kardashian The selfie photography of Kim Kardashian, featuring many never-beforeseen personal images from one of the most recognisable and iconic celebrities in the world. From her early beginnings as a wardrobe stylist, Kim has catapulted herself into becoming one of the most recognisable people in Hollywood. With her curvaceous style, successful reality tv series, clothing store, makeup and perfume lines, she has acquired a massive fan following. Through social media, Kim connects with her fans on a daily basis, sharing details of her life through selfies. Widely regarded as a trailblazer in the ‘selfie’, Kim has mastered the art of taking flattering and highly personal photos of oneself. In this book, Kim presents a collection of her favourite selfies from her throwback images to current ultra-sexy glam shots and provides readers with a behind-the-scenes look into this larger-than-life star.

TV SHOW of the week The Goldbergs E4, Thursdays, 7.30pm The second season of hit 1980s comedy series The Goldbergs has arrived.

The show follows the exploits of a family with an in-your-face mother, a hot-tempered father and three eccentric children. In the opening episode of this season, Adam makes a mix tape for Dana to express

Activity of the week DLR Leisure Loughlinstown Drive, Dun Laoghaire, 01 2823344, www.dlrleisure.ie/loughlinstown DLR Leisure are launching their long awaited 15m Commando Inflatable Run in Loughlinstown this weekend.

Bring the whole family down and give it a try. Session times are Saturdays at 3.30pm and 4.30pm and Sundays at 1.30pm, 2.30pm and 3.30pm. You are encouraged to arrive early as it will be first come, first served. The cost is €7 per adult and €5 per child. This new and exciting activity is great fun for all the family. Ducking, diving, bobbing and climbing, you will need to be nimble and quick to get through the inflatable run while keeping your balance. Will you make it through or will you be splashing about in the pool before the finish?

his feelings... only to have it intercepted by Beverly who thinks it’s meant for her. Adam must carefully navigate not hurting Beverly’s feelings as his relationship with Dana progresses. Meanwhile, Barry gets a fake ID but after showing it off to the entire school, it’s confiscated, and Barry needs to make good on some promises he made to his classmates.

6 7 8 9 10

WHAT’S HOT| 13

May 21 2015 wicklowvoice.ie

MOVIE of the week Tomorrowland: A World Beyond Gaiety Cinema, Arklow Rebellious yet intelligent teenager Casey (newcomer Britt Robertson) brims with scientific potential. Nevertheless, she’s startled when she comes into possession of a mysterious pin, one that, when she touches it, transports her to a mysterious futuristic world. The inquisitive Casey is determined to discover more about where the pin came from and the name of the world it reveals. She soon tracks down reclusive Frank (George Clooney), a former boy genius who reluctantly tells her all about the enigmatic Tomorrowland - a remarkable place where anything is possible. However, this knowledge soon puts both Frank and Casey in danger and an exciting chase ensues as they attempt to travel to Tomorrowland and save the future of mankind. The Incredibles director Brad Bird presents a visually dazzling sci-fi adventure, one based on the popular Disney theme park attraction.

HOROSCOPES

event of the week Deirdre O’Kane The Martello, Strand Road, Bray, May 22, 9pm Following roles in Noble and Moone Boy, Deirdre O’Kane is returning to her stand-up roots. She is kicking off her Irish tour right here in Bray in association with Bray Comedy Club. Although she is familiar to many from her roles on the screen - both big and small - Deirdre began

her career as a stand-up comedian. She toured the world from the Just For Laughs festival in Montreal, Canada to Melbourne and Adelaide with shows in the Middle East, Hong Kong, Prague and Brussels in between. Catch her now before she finds herself back in the world of acting. Tickets are available at The Martello reception or from www. brayanddalkeycomedy.com.

Tickets are €18.

The Sue Ryder Cycle 2015 Sue Ryder House, Dalkey, May 30, 9.30am, www.sueryderfoundation.ie This charity cycle will host two routes, a 50km and a 130km route, catering for a range of cyclists from leisure cyclists to the seasoned racer alike. The 50km route will leave Dalkey, travelling through Bray, Greystones, Rathnew and on to Wicklow Town where riders will enjoy a well-earned food stop at The Be-Spoke Bike Shop including sandwiches, tea and coffee to refuel for the return journey. At this point, the 130km route will continue down the coast through Brittas and on to Arklow where there will be a second food-stop at The Leisure Centre before the return journey.

Back at the Sue Ryder House there will be a free BBQ for all participants and a raffle in aid of The Sue Ryder Foundation. Cost to enter is €25 which includes a Sue Ryder jersey, goodie bag and the BBQ on return.

wedding fair of the week Summerhill House Hotel Enniskerry, May 24, 1pm-5pm, www. summerhillhousehotel.com Wicklow’s premier wedding venue is holding a wedding fair which will allow you to get a feel for what it might be like to have your own wedding in this fantastic venue. See the room fully set, view the Bridal Suite, meet with local wedding suppliers and chat with their experienced and dedicated wedding team. Find out more about their range of wedding packages available such as the Winter 2015 and 2016 packages. There is a special offer of a €150 discount for any deposits paid on the day.

Gemini- This week is a 9 Energy surges are predictable.

You’re more assertive and confident. Get inventive. Test the limits. Stay thrifty and plan your moves.

Leo- This week is an 8 Make a change you’ve been dreaming about. Your friends really come through for you the next couple of days. Review the numbers. Finish household projects and repairs.

GIG of the week

Killruddery House and Gardens are hosting a wonderfull series of classical concerts over the coming weeks. Classical guitarist Redmond O’Toole will return to Killruddery to begin the series on May 21.

The Bray native will present a programme of masterworks for the guitar including music by JS Bach, Frank Martin and Isaac Albeniz. On May 28, pianist Fiachra Garvey will perform a sample of his repertoire

Taurus- This week is a 9 Compute expenses. You can make extra cash this week. Stay cool and prosper. Reconnect with friends from the past.

Cancer- This week is a 7 Finish your work in private.

Peace and quiet suit your mood. Slow down and consider options. Speak what you’ve been holding back.

Fundraiser of the week

Classical Concert Series Killruddery House and Gardens, Southern Cross, Bray, May 21, May 28 and June 4

Aries- This week is an 8 You’re smart and getting smarter. Your mistakes reveal themselves with Mercury’s retrograde. Take time to fix them.

including Beethoven’s Sonata op 78 A Therese, Bartok Piano Sonata, Brahams and Debussy.

Finally, Veronica McSwiney (pictured), one of Ireland’s most talented pianists, will perform on June 4. She has played with the RTE Symphony Orchestra and the BBC Philharmonic. For this special evening she will select her favourite pieces from Chopin and Mozart. Each concert begins at 7pm and lasts about an hour. Tickets are €20 for non-members and €18 for Killruddery members. Tickets are available at www.eventbrite.ie

Virgo- This week is an 8 Begin a new phase with this New Moon. Financial opportunities appear this week.

Choose private over public engagements.

Libra- This week is a 9 New opportunities surface. Now is good for travel. Make backup plans. Seemingly-firm financial arrangements may shift. Cut out the superfluous.

Scorpio- This week is an 8 Keep family accounts current.

New income opportunities tempt. Prepare to change direction as situations demand.

Sagittarius- This week is a 9 Begin a new phase in a partnership. Compromise for a win-win. Review old goals and revise.

Capricorn- This week is a 9 Push to keep up with demand.

Get assistance if necessary.

Take your time with each step to avoid do-overs. Allow extra time for communications and transportation.

Aquarius- This week is an 8 Begin a fun, romantic new phase with this New Moon. Relax and play with your family and friends. Practice your game.

Pisces- This week is a 7 Learn from objections. Devise a new direction. Choose in favour of family. Extra patience serves you with delays or miscommunications.

14 | LIFESTYLE

wicklowvoice.ie May 21 2015

my favourite things

WHAT’s HOT

with Sinead McCourt info@wicklowvoice.ie

With the VHI Women’s Mini Marathon approaching on the June bank holiday and over 40,000 women taking part, there is no better time to look hot while you work out.

Everyone has gone sportswear mad from top designers like Stella McCartney collaborating with Adidas to the high street stores like Marks & Spencer, H&M and GAP all promoting fabulous sportswear lines. Let’s examine a few of the ranges and see what they have on offer.

Marks & Spencer Marks & Spencer offer affordable sports range from size 6-22. They offer a full range of workout gear. I’m loving their vibrant running legging with Cool Comfort technology, technology that draws moisture.

They would brighten up any run or workout. If you are looking for a good sports bra look no further than Marks & Spencer they have a range of bras available in sizes A-G 32-40.

Penneys If you don’t want to splash out on Sportswear look no further than Penneys. They have an unbeatable price, bright and colourful on trendy range.

Looking good and working does not have to break the bank.

Footwear It is important to invest in good pair of trainers that are comfortable and supportive.

Ensure they fit correctly.

Best of Luck to all of you lovely ladies participating in the VHI Women’s Mini Marathon.

Remember Fashionistas you can always look your best even exercising especially with the fabulous sportswear ranges on offer!!

Fit girl

Clockwise from top: Seam free vest PINK, Penneys, €6; Flash print tee, M&S, €25; Seam free crop grey, Penneys, €4; Nike women’s Free TR 5 Breathe Training shoe, available in Lifestyle Sports, €125; Extra High Impact Underwired Serious Sports Bra (sizes B-G), M&S Collection, €30; Shard Abstract Print Straight Leg Leggings with Comfort Technology, M&S Collection, €30

LIFESTYLE| 15

May 21 2015 wicklowvoice.ie

food in wicklow

New York Cheesecake

Peter Byrne

Head Chef at Sika Restaurant in The Powerscourt Hotel Ingredients

15 vine tomatoes 500g cream cheese 285ml sour cream 285ml double cream 200g caster sugar 3 large eggs beaten Juice of 1 lemon 2 teaspoons vanilla essence Sultanas (optional)

method

Line the bottom of the cake tins with a genoise sponge base.

Mix all of the ingredients except the sultanas in a food processor until smooth, and then fold in the sultanas.

Pour the mix into the moulds and bake for 40 minutes at 170oc.

Turn off the oven and leave the cake to cool down in the oven for about one hour to prevent the top from cracking.

Chill the cake in the fridge overnight and dust the top with icing sugar.

Ladies Mini Marathon

FREE

STUDIO CLASS

monksTown / meadowbrook / loughlinsTown

For everyone with a Mini Marathon race number

Terms & CondiTions Available up to 7th June 2015 Subject to availability class.

Over 16 years of age.

For class timetables visit www.dlrleisure.ie

16 | NEWS/SPECIAL REPORT wicklowvoice.ie May 21 2015

Grin and bear it!

Clover Hill Veterinary Clinic Ballymanus Lower, Glenealy, 0404 44505, www.cloverhillvet.com Clover Hill Veterinary Clinic has been operating in Glenealy for over ten years, offering first class service for companion animals in Co Wicklow. The dedicated team of vets, Gillian Hick, Eithne Byrne and Fiona O Brien, are ably assisted by the veterinary nurse and reception staff, Amanda Fitzgerald, Amanda Power and Sharon Byrne. The team at Clover Hill Veterinary Clinic understand that pets are important family members and are all committed to caring for all their patients, and their owners, with understanding and compassion from the first vaccination to the final journey.

They are always available, whether for a quick phone call for some sympathetic advice, or should your pet need emergency treatment night or day. Why not drop in to see their purpose built facility, in its quiet rural setting, with ample animal-friendly onsite free parking.

Chunki Dog Grooming Toberlongh, Aughrim, 087 9561714

Overseeing preparations at the Bear Chain on Greystones Seafront (All pix by Sheena Griffin)

If you find your dog is difficult when it comes to grooming then Chunki dog grooming is the answer to your prayers. Manon Schmidt has been in business for 13 years, working from her home near Aughrim. She specialises in dogs with difficult behaviour, embracing the challenges that other groomers run away from.

Another specialty of Manon is grooming long haired dogs such as Rough Collies, long haired Alsatians, Huskey dogs and Samoyed dogs to name a few. Good grooming habits are essential for dogs and Manon loves looking after them. If a dog’s hair is left ungroomed it can become matted which is extremely uncomfortable for the dog. As we come into the warmer months, long hair can make it difficult for a dog to regulate body temperature. Chunki dog grooming is open five days a week from 8am until 3pm and every other Saturday.

Fabulous Fido’s 57 Season Park, Newtownmountkennedy, 086 1663836, www.fabulousfidos.com

Police line-up! Local Gardai count some of the bears

Some of the children point out their favourites

Fabulous Fido’s offer a range of services to make sure that your dog is the best looking pup in the park. They can bathe your dog as well as trimming and styling your dog’s hair. Hair can be styled to suit your own preference whether you would like the breed standard or something more adventurous, Fabulous Fido’s can deliver. Nails can be trimmed to prevent discomfort. To ensure your dog stays healthy, get their ears cleaned and also have them checked for parasites. The salon can provide flea baths if your dog has fleas and parasites can be removed using a special device.

Fabulous Fido’s offer some unique services - all of which are safe and non-toxic. You can have your dog’s fur dyed all over or just at the tips of its ears, paws and tail. You can also get a temporary tattoo for your dog. Contact for more details on these services.

SPECIAL REPORT| 17

May 21 2015 wicklowvoice.ie

all eyes on pet care Summertime is fun time, but hot weather makes for some unique summer pet care challenges. Although wild animals are well adapted to the elements, companion animals can be just as susceptible to extreme temperatures as their owners are. What does that mean for your pet? When the temperatures get extreme, pet safety should be top of mind.

Here are five ways to stay safe while enjoying summer activities with your pet: Respect the heat. Humans aren't the only animals that can find a hot summer day overwhelming. But unlike you, your pet has a limited ability to deal with the heat. Dogs release heat through their paw pads and by panting, while humans can sweat through all of the skin on their body. Dehydration can be a big problem for pets during the hot weather, too. According

to the ISPCA, animals with flat faces—like Pugs and Persian cats—cannot pant as effectively, and are therefore more susceptible to heat stroke.

Keep bugs away—safely.

Another summer pet safety issue is the presence of ticks and other summer insects. Not only can bugs carry diseases, but the ways people try to ward them off can also cause problems for your outdoor pet's health.

Fertilizers and pesticides may help keep a lawn looking great, but they can be very dangerous for your pet.

Beware of antifreeze. In the summertime, antifreeze can leak out of cars when they overheat, leaving puddles on the ground that your dog can easily lap up and swallow. The sweet taste of antifreeze is tempting to dogs and cats, but when this toxic substance is

ingested, it's potentially lethal.

Pay attention to your neighbors' cars and puddles on your street, and make sure your pets stay clear of it. Find out if your pet needs sunscreen. Some pets, particularly those with short fine hair and pink skin, can be susceptible to sunburn.

Practice water safety.

As with other aspects of summer pet care, water safety is all about thinking ahead.

Although it's fun to bring your pet to the beach or pool to stay cool together, always keep a close eye on your pet when they're in or near the water.

Even a strong swimmer could have trouble getting out of a pool, or get trapped by ropes and other obstacles. For more risky summer adventures with your dog, like boating, look into a doggie life preserver. It could prove to be an excellent investment for his safety.

Susie’s Muttlies Abbey View, Onagh Farm, Enniskerry, 083 4151418, www.susiesmuttlies.com Susie’s Muttlies love dogs and spend their days looking after the happiest dogs from South Dublin down to North County Wicklow.

They work hard to make both your and your dog’s life, easier.

Your dog can enjoy their day care from 7.30am until 6pmand as an added bonus, if required, they will also pick them up and drop them off so you don’t need to worry about a thing.

With half an acre of outdoor space and a cosy indoor area your dog has plenty of room to play and socialise.

They offer a dog walking service on weekdays in South County Dublin.

At the Annual Muttlies’ BBQ, dog lovers can come together in a dog-friendly environment and exchange tips and tricks with each other.

Check their Facebook page for updates and daily photographs.

Little Paws Sandyford, Dublin 18, 087 7906040, www.littlepaws.ie This family-run professional dog grooming service is all you need to have your little pup looking utterly fabulous.

Open six days a week, Monday to Saturday, they groom all breeds of dog and are trained to do all styles.

Their mobile service covers Bray, Enniskerry, Kilmacanogue and Dublin. For a supplement, they can cover Delgany, Newtownmountkennedy and Kilcoole.

Little Paws pride themselves on offering a comfortable service and ensuring that your dog has a pleasant experience.

They can work around your busy schedule with early morning, evening and Saturday appointments available. Booking well in advance is advised to ensure you get a day and time that suits you best.

Little Paws are trusted members of the IPDGA. The Grooming Shed at WonderPaws Festina Lente Gardens, Bray, 087 1020022, www.wonderpaws.ie As the weather gets warmer, our dogs can struggle to regulate their body temperature with an overgrown coat so now is the ideal time to book your pooch in for a de-shed or full groom with The Grooming Shed.

Their groomers take great care and patience ensuring all their clients are relaxed, happy and comfortable throughout the grooming experience. Groomers routinely undertake a bodycondition and a visual health check on all dogs to safeguard against parasite and any suspicious lumps and bumps.

Like their positive dog training methods, they use delicious treats and affection to build a happy, positive association for dogs in their care making grooming a happy event.

Regular grooming will ensure your dog is comfortable and looks well as well as keeping your home cleaner.

The Grooming Shed at Wonder Paws Pet Dog Training, Bray ¥ ¥ ¥ ¥ ¥ ¥ ¥

Positive handling & gentle care grooming Puppy Pampers to Full Grooms & Speciality Grooms Certified, experienced grooming to breed standard State-of-the-art equipment in a purpose-built salon Secure, outdoor play-garden Collection & drop-off service available Open Mon-Sat, 9am-5pm To book, call 087 1020022

FF 10% O s room Full wit h

G

this

Festina Lente Gardens Old Connaught Ave, Bray

www.wonderpaws.ie

rt adve

Bray Dog Grooming and Daycare Kilmantain Place (adjacent to McDonald’s), Bray, 085 8101998 Bray Dog Grooming are reopening on June 2.

If you hate leaving your dog at home all alone every day while you head off to work, you will be happy to know that Bray Dog Grooming and Daycare is there for you.

Not only can they make your dog look fabulous with their team of expert groomers but they also provide a wonderful daycare service.

Your dog won’t be left sitting around all day as there are fulltime trainers who will play with your dog and look after them.

Dogs are social animals so exercise and interaction with other dogs and people is important for their happiness.

Bray Dog Grooming is open Monday-Friday from 7.00am until 6.30pm. Book now to reserve your dog’s place.

18 | ADVERTISING wicklowvoice.ie May 21 2015

of Bray Are recruiting following staff Graphic designer/ printer Finishers Retail supervisor Available to work in Dun Laoghaire and Sandyford

Email cv and relevant information to braydesign@reads.ie F.a.o Niall

Position to be filled by 25th may 2015

Buying?

Selling?

Contact one of our team today e: info@ wicklowvoice.ie w: www. wicklowvoice.ie t: 01 901 5565

ADVERTISING| 19

May 21 2015 wicklowvoice.ie

Time to save money on your heating costs Only the Best in the Business will suffice…

NATIONAL AWARD WINNING COMPANY

Clane Building Works offers energy conscious home owners advice and installation across all areas of construction, home insulations & heating. Our range of services covers initial assessment and advice on the most practical and economical upgrades available, to completion of the necessary works and final certification. As we supply our clients with all the leading systems available, we offer a complete energy service tailored to each individual home owner’s needs. We find that with a small initial expenditure our clients our experiencing long term savings in relation to their annual energy costs thus saving our client’s money while making the home more comfortable. With the extreme winters we have experienced in recent years by carrying out some simple insulation and draft proofing measures the annual heating costs can be reduced by up to 40%.

Clane Building Works is acknowledged as a leading company in the area of energy conservation, they are NSAI & SEAI Thermobead approved cavity wall insulation installers, SEAI approved loft insulation installers, NSAI and Kilsaran approved outsulation system installers and also Kingspan solar system approved installers.

Winners of the Kildare Green Business Award and overall winners of the Kildare Entrepreneurial Awards, Also awarded for achievement, innovation and excellence in small business by the SFA National Small Business Awards and MD John King finished in the top ten trade persons in Ireland. Established in the 1940s, the family firm has been a significant element of the construction industry for three generations.

SEAI GRANTS With a variety of grants available from the SEAI to assist towards the cost of insulation, home heating systems and controls for houses built prior to 2006, it is a good idea to take advantage of this benefit as soon as possible. Visit www.seai.ie for more information.

Revenue HRI Scheme Contact our office to arrange a FREE survey

045 83 83 76 www.kinggroup.ie

In addition to SEAI grants the Home Renovation Incentive (HRI) Scheme, will run from 25 October 2013 to 31 December 2015. The inventive provides for tax relief for Homeowners by way of an Income Tax credit at 13.5% of qualifying. Expenditure on repair, renovation or improvement works carried out on a main home by qualifying Contractors. The credit is payable over two years following the year in which the work is carried out and paid for.

For a free survey on your property and information about how you could avail of grants for energy improvements, contact us today at 045 83 83 76

Complete Insulation Services

Attic Insulation

Cavity Wall Insulation

Spray Foam Insulation

Internal Wall Insulation

External Wall Insulation

Professional Construction Services

New Builds

Home Extensions

Building Renovations

Sunrooms

Attic Conversions

When retrofitting an existing home it is imperative to look at the five points below said John King of Clane Building Works Insulation - The envelope of the home must be insulated to highest possible standards - i.e. all external walls & roof in relation to insulation. There are numerous options available to insulate the envelope of the home including cavity wall insulation (pumped into the walls externally), dry-ling insulation internally, external outsulation and various forms of attic insulation. The options available must be tailored to find the most practical and economical upgrades available to suit each individual homes construction type & budget. By insulating the envelope of the home energy costs can be reduced by up to 40%.

Heating System - The heating system should be reviewed. Replacing your boiler can greatly reduce heating costs. Today’s heating systems are over 70% more efficient than those available ten years ago. The heating system should be custom fitted to your structure & needs.Solar energy can be used to create a source of heat in almost all houses, solar water heating is the most cost effective way of using solar energy.

Heating Controls - Heating controls can be installed to optimize the usage by regulating when the heating should be turned on, what temperature is required, what minimum space humidity would be acceptable & the areas that need heating.

Windows & Doors - The windows & doors of the home should be assessed. In the fight against heat loss, window and doors fitted with single pane glazing is a major drawback. It is through the windows of a building that a lot of heat is lost. Windows can be replaced with double/ triple glazed high efficiency windows, which will make a huge difference not only in the comfort of the home but also aesthetically.

Air Infiltration - Infiltration or air leakage is a major cause of energy wastage in buildings.

Infiltration is the loss or gain of untreated and unregulated air through gaps and crevices around windows, doors, roofs, vents and sky lights etc. This problem can be resolved by identifying air leakage and taking the necessary remedial action to seal off these crevices and gapes.

20 |SPECIAL REPORT

wicklowvoice.ie May 21 2015

glass How to frame when buying

SPECIAL REPORT| 21

May 21 2015 wicklowvoice.ie

act

Old or poorly installed house windows can cost as much in energy over the course of a few years as the cost of installing brand-new windows. Here are a few signs that your home is a good candidate for window replacement: • Peeling paint revealing warped or water-damaged wood • Faded nearby carpeting and furniture • Drafts near closed windows • Outside noise strongly heard inside • High energy bills year-round

your decision new windows

The type of material used in your existing window frames can also cause damage to your home. For example, because aluminum window frames are often colder than the ambient air around them, condensation could form around your windows. As this condensation builds up, it bleeds into the frame and damages the window sills. Eventually, the wood rots and more water leaks into the surrounding walls. This damage can be extremely expensive to repair since you’re not only replacing the windows and frames but also the surrounding walls.

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22 | SPORT

wicklowvoice.ie May 21 2015

Dalymount Park is 7.45pm.

David Cassidy is the Supporters club Player of the month for April.

Supporters Club membership is now open for the 2015 season. Prices are just €5 per person or €10 for a family. You can join up at any of our home matches by calling into the club shop.

sport in brief An Tóchar Again this year we are hosting a school sports day on June 15 for Roundwood NS and Moneystown NS. Please give your support to George, Jackie, Kevin and Eileen who will be looking for volunteers over the next few weeks.

Our County Senior Football panel are holding a race night on May 22 in the Arklow Bay Hotel.

Tickets are €10 and are available from Brendan Kennedy 086 0600484.

Well done to the boys U12s.

For the third year in a row we are competing against the top teams in Wicklow and doing well.

We played our fourth league game this week, beating AGB and remain unbeaten in this league. Keep it up boys and well done to 2 Toms (Fee and Kearney) Neil and Mike.

Arklow Geraldines There is a Code of Ethics Training Course for all coaches, admins and officials on May 28 at 7pm in Arklow.

Venue TBC. The GAA recommends that all adults working with Juvenile players should

Cumann na mBunscol

Lorraine Breen, Laura Armstrong, Barbara O’Sullivan and Dorcas Keenan of Grants Pharmacy, Arklow with Wicklow Rose, Megan Swart at the launch of the “Pedal for Emily” campaign (Pic.Yvette O’Beirne) refresh their Ethics training at least every three years.

Well done to the AGB Junior men’s team who beat Coolkenno by a score of 2-10 to 0-7 on May 7.

Thanks to everybody involved in organising and participating in our fundraiser table quiz for the U14 Boys Feile Team.

It was a fantastic success with the boys proving that they have brains as well as excellent football skills.

Well done to the U16 Div3 team on a great victory over Eire Og in the league on May 14. It was a great team performance. The standard of football played was just outstanding.

Bray Wanderers There was no jackpot winner on May 17. Numbers drawn were 8-19-20-25. €30 lucky dip winners were Joe Keating c/o John Keating,

Gareth Slevin c/o Frank Slevin, Pater Doyle c/o Bray Lakers, Dave Brennan c/o BW Lotto on line, Ryan Leahy c/o Frank Slevin. Next week’s jackpot is €8975.

Bray Wanderers Lotto tickets 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 Bohemians on May 22 in the SSE Airtricity premier division. Kick off at the

It was an historic day for Gaelic games in Wicklow on May 12 as newly appointed GAA president Aogán O Fearghail visited a wind swept Ballinakill GAA centre of excellence in Wicklow.

This was to mark the launch of Féile 2015 which will take place in Wicklow this summer.

Fifteen schools with over twenty teams, both boys and girls, representing all areas of Wicklow assembled for a blitz day to welcome the President, a native of Cavan, to the Garden County.

There were ten junvenile pitches in action and President O Fearghail was thrilled to see such enthusiasm and skill from all the young players.

As he made his way around to greet each team he spoke to delighted children, teachers and coaches and stood for a photo with each group.

The Ladies Gaelic Football

Association Leinster president Finbarr O’Driscoll also visited on the day and encouraged players to get out and be a part of such an exciting game.

Garden County Academy

It has been a great week for the U14 squad. It was announced during the week that a new sponsor had come on board in the shape of Glen Fuels.

A great turn out of 46 players were in Ballinakill on Saturday for a blitz involving Louth, Limerick and Westmeath and ourselves.

The squad put in impressive performances in 5 games and came out with wins against each county and a lot of positive performances.

Shankill GAA Club Summer Camp is from July 6-10. Costs are €45 for members, €50 for nonmembers with a €5 reduction for siblings. There will be Gaelic football, hurling, rounders a free T shirt and lots of fun.

Special thanks to Bray Emmets for hosting a blitz for our three academy teams.

Girls U9 and U11 teams lost their first ever league games to Ballinteer St Johns and St Maurs.

sport| 23

May 21 2015 wicklowvoice.ie

insideback

with Brian Quigley

Wonderful Wanderers give Croly the start we all wanted The Trevor Croly era at the Carlisle Grounds got off to a flying start when his new charges overcame high-flying St Patrick’s Athletic on May 16 in Bray. Peter McGlynn scored the all-important strike in the second period to give the Seagulls all three points.

Even more impressive was the performance, which was solid and assured. There was a good turnout at the match and reaction online both to the victory and the appointment of Croly has been very positive – people genuinely feel the club is about to turn the corner.

Jack Grealish Staying with soccer for a moment and Jack Grealish had a bad week last week. His Aston

Villa side were hammered 6-1

by Southampton in the Premier League and this capped off a miserable few days after he was the victim of some vile abuse on social media for prevaricating over whether to play soccer for Ireland or hold out for an England call-up. There really is no place in sport for this mindless cruelty – I really think the perpetrators of this kind of moronic behaviour should grow up.

Energy Drinks There is a growing body of evidence coming out of research into the use of energy drinks in sport that is suggesting they may be linked to heart attacks, SADS [Sudden Adult Death Syndrome] and related

Probe as GAA ref assaulted Wicklow County Board is to launch an investigation into an assault on inter-county referee John Keenan at the end of an intermediate football championship game.

Baltinglass and StratfordGrangecon clashed in Hollywood on Saturday evening at the end of which Keenan was on the receiving end of an incident as he left the pitch.

The alleged attack happened as he made his way through the crowd to the changing room and it is believed he was headbutted.

It is understood that he was approached and struck by a headbutt to the nose which left him bloodied.

The incident came at the end of the game which Baltinglass had won by four points. Keenan has come through the refereeing ranks at inter-county level and this year is included in the panel

for the All-Ireland senior hurling championship.

This latest incident comes on the back of the abandonment of a Division 1A senior football league game between Carnew Emmets and éire óg (Greystones) seven days earlier.

A couple of skirmishes broke out with referee Ciaran Fleming abandoning the game minutes before the end. éire óg were leading by 0-12 to 1-6 at the time.

Now Wicklow County Board are to launch investigations into both incidents.

Peadar Mac Eochaidh, president of the Wicklow County Board, condemned the thug and said nobody comes to a game to cause trouble.

“The first thing to do is to identify the individual. There was a nice-sized crowd at the match,” he said.

certainly shouldn’t be available on shop shelves for children to buy freely.

Trevor Croly and his staff celebrate Bray’s win at the weekend irregularities concerning the heart. It will take a lot more evidence to conclusively prove that these kind of drinks loaded with caffeine, sugar, guanine, electrolytes, taurine

Local rugby teams to play in Aviva Wicklow sides Greystones RFC and Presentation Bray have been invited to play at the Aviva Stadium this Saturday in the Aviva Mini Rugby Festival.

They will be one of 20 mini rugby teams from picked from 240 clubs across the country who will get the opportunity to play where their heroes, like Robbie Henshaw, Peter O’Mahony and Dave Kearney, have played.

The National Festival is being held in the home of Irish Rugby, the Aviva Stadium, for the second time following a hugely successful festival in 2014.

The 20 U-10 clubs from all over the country will be playing against each other in a non-competitive and fun environment.

Want to give your club a voice? email your notes to info@wicklowvoice.ie

and whatever else – are dangerous but it is heading in this direction. I wouldn’t be surprised in the future to see these kind of products banned or heavily restricted. They

Sonia Sonia O’Sullivan was in Ireland recently working on the Sonia 5K, which will take place on 13 June to mark twenty years since her World Championship win over that distance in Gothenburg. While she was here she did an interview with RTE where she seemed to on the one hand celebrate the huge upturn in running participation in this country but on the other hand complain that with so many races our top runners were not facing each other enough to bring them to the next level. I felt myself she was a bit disparaging of what she called

‘fun runners’ and she seemed to think the focus should be more on elite athlete development.

Can’t say I agree. Sport is for everyone and with so many people participating our nation is getting healthier – something that matters more than the next Olympic medal I would have thought.

Wicklow v Meath The Leinster Senior Football Championship kicked off last weekend with some round 1 games but thankfully Wicklow’s footballers can concentrate on training for a few more weeks having obtained a bye straight into the quarter-finals, where they will face Meath.

We wish the squad the best of luck.

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