Wicklow Voice November 12 2015

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Here’s Johnny

Developer to build two luxury hotels in county

By Jake Maxwell

DEVELOPER Johnny Ronan is planning to build two hotels in a massive boost to employment and tourism in the county.

In the first scheme, the Ronan Group Real Estate intends building a 200-bedroom hotel called the Enniskerry Park Hotel on the N11 not far from the Powerscourt Hotel, which he developed and opened originally as the Ritz-Carlton in 2007.

In the second scheme, the developer will refurbish Style Bawn House in Delgany and turn it into a boutique hotel.

The current structure was built in 1798 but Sir Walter Raleigh is once reputed to have stayed in the original dwelling which dates from the 16th century.

The house was famous for its gardens and at one stage were open to the public during the annual County Wicklow Gardens Festival.

There is currently planning permission for 11 houses on one-

acre sites around Style Bawn, which has been described as a “waste of land from a density point of view” by a source close to the project who spoke to the Wicklow Voice.

The Enniskerry Park Hotel will be a new build and will create hundreds of construction jobs followed by hundreds more in hospitality when it opens.

Ronan, who lives nearby, is believed to be backing County Wicklow to capitilise on the shortage of hotels in Dublin and “is prepapred to put his money where his mouth is”, according to sources.

Continued on next page

Lily Cullen and Niamh Holohan at the Greystones Cancer Support Super Draw in Summervilles. See page 11 » Lots more pictures from around the county inside

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04| NEWS news in brief Christmas appeal

wicklowvoice.ie November 12 2015

Legend Reggie opens new chapter

The Arklow Lions Club Little Christmas Ladies Lunch will take place in Arklow Golf Club on January 6 at 1pm. Tickets are available from Abbey Lane Flowers, 32 Main Street.

The annual Lions Club Food Appeal will be held on November 27-28 in Tesco and in Supervalu and Dunnes Stores on December 11-13.

1916 seminar Co. Wicklow Network for Older People will explore whether the Irish state cherished all the children of the nation equally between 1916 and 2016.

The Seminar is being held on November 20 in the Glendalough hotel from 10.30am until 3.45pm.

Registration for the event is essential, contact Anne Kavanagh 087 1500234.

Tree of crafts The Tree of Crafts fair will be held in the Grand Hotel, Wicklow Town on November 15 from 11am-4pm.

For further information contact Majella and Kim at thetreeofcrafts@gmail.com.

Leinster legend Reggie Corrigan at the launch of new book

By Michelle McGlynn Better known for being in the front row at Leinster and Ireland, Wicklow rugby legend Reggie Corrigan has opened a new chapter as an author.

Ex-Presentation College Bray pupil Reggie takes us back to a historic moment in rugby in a new book called Leinster in the Beginning.

The book focuses on the final of the 2001 Celtic League back when the professional game was in its

infancy and Munster reigned supreme in Ireland.

Former Leinster and Ireland captain Reggie, who won more than 100 caps for the province and 47 for country, provides an insight into a pivotal moment for Leinster rugby as Ireland was coming to grips with the professional game.

“One of the biggest challenges at the time was changing the players’ mindset,” Reggie told the Wicklow Voice. “Before players had full-time jobs as

well as playing rugby but now rugby was their job and that took some getting used to.

“Every player stepped up to the challenge and we won 15 games that season including the final against Munster which was a massive coup at that time.”

Reggie, who played for Greystones RFC, said that he enjoyed delving back into his days with Leinster.

“As the game continues to grow and change I think it’s important to look back at where we came from.”

Ronan to develop two hotels

Continued from previous page The high-profile developer is also set to turn Bewleys on Grafton Street into a boutique hotel. The hotel will operate above the Bewley’s coffee house in the city centre building with 70 bedrooms, retaining the famous Harry Clarke stained glass windows.

The company has also revealed plans for a 167-bed, 22-storey waterfront tower hotel adjacent to Tara Street Dart station.

The Wicklow hotels come on the back of major developments in the residential market with Ulster Bank preparing to sell 87 acres in Charlesland in Greystones as part of property company Ballymore’s distressed loans, known as one of the best banks of land in the greater Dublin area.

Ballymore has previously been at the centre of controversy relating to Charlesland and the Florentine Centre in Bray and the land is expected to attract the attention of several developers.

More than a 1,000 houses are in the pipeline within the next four years for the Greystones and Delgany area.

Million euro houses: Page 8

€400,000 legal bill to fight Big Mac in courts

By Michelle McGlynn

A local campaign group opposed to the opening of a McDonald’s restaurant in Greystones intend to bring the fight to the chain - but it could cost €400,000 in legal fees.

A public meeting was held this week to review the options available to concerned residents after An Bord Pleanála granted planning permission to the fast food restaurant last month.

Greystones residents, who oppose the proposed Blacklion site as it is located near three schools, sought legal advice on what avenues were open to them.

It was advised that the steering committee had a stateable case for a High Court judicial review to see if An Bord Pleanála carried out procedures in accordance with the law.

This is a costly course of action and legal experts advised that there was only a 50% chance of victory.

The estimated bill for a judicial review ranges anywhere from €40,000 to €400,000.

“The general feeling among the group is that undertaking a judicial review is a daunting prospect,” local campaigner Basil Miller told the Wicklow Voice. “It is safe to say that we will not be proceeding with the judicial review.

“One of the schools in question is currently

considering the option.” Instead the campaigners are making plans to hold demonstrations outside nearby McDonald’s outlets beginning with the Bray location.

There are also plans to protest the decision by Lidl to provide land to facilitate the building of the controversial fast food outlet.

“Lidl have offered the land but contracts have not been signed so we are hoping that a public outcry will see the supermarket withdraw this offer,” said Mr Miller.

Another key aspect of the campaign is to include a ‘no fry zone’ amendment to the draft county development plan which would prohibit any fast food outlet from opening within 1.5km of schools, parks and playgrounds.

“We will be reaching out to councillors, schools and residents around the county to voice their support of this amendment when it is made open to public submissions,” Mr Miller told the Wicklow Voice.

“The amendment will benefit the whole county and we need to make sure that Wicklow councillors are aware of the public support for a ‘no fry zone’ as they will be the ones who vote on the matter.”

Councillors in Greystones have already voiced their support of the amendment.

Seoige’s house woes Proceedings by KBC Bank to reposses RTE presenter Grainne Seoige’s Wicklow home have been adjourned generally.

Action by the bank against Seoige and her ex-husband Stephen Cullinane over the picturesque home, known as Rocky Valley, in Kilmacanogue was brought before the County Registrar Mary Delahunty at Wicklow Circuit Court.

Neither the Crime Call host or her former husband were present were present for the brief hearing.

The luxurious home was purchased in 2002 for over €1m and although a large amount was invested in the property, it is believed to be now worth €650,000.

Following the couple’s divorce in 2010, Gráinne continued to live in the home for a time.

NEWS |05

November 12 2015 wicklowvoice.ie

wicklow people in pictures

Pictured at the launch of Bray Drugs Awareness Month 2015 in the Barracuda restaurant, Bray are Garda Jennifer Carrick, Danny Bohan of Bray Lions Club, art competition winner Kayleigh Dodd and Cllr. Brendan Thornhill, Bray Municipal District.

Ross (11) and Mary Keating out and about in Greystones. Pic: Oisin McFarland Smith

David and Killian Farrelly on Arklow South Beach during the Irish Angling U16`s Sea angling Qualifier. Pic: Yvette O Beirne

Gabriel Brady and Dominic Mulvany at the Right to Change meeting at the Grand Hotel in Wicklow Town. Pic: Ceaneacht O Hoctun

Christiana Swan Doyle and Claire Gallagher at the Red Ribbon Protest in Fitzwilliam Square, Wicklow Town. Pic: Ceaneacht O Hoctun

Leo MacNally, Delgany, Ailbhe Murphy, RIAM, Anabel Sweeney, Wicklow Town and Becky Corcoran, Enniskerry at the Royal Irish Academy of Music Achiever Awards in Wicklow.

Pic: Kevin Byrne

Pictured at the Bin It workshop which visited schools in the county recently are students from Presentation College Bray

06| NEWS news in brief Seabreeze AGM The AGM of Arklow Seabreeze Music and Arts Festival 2015 will take place on November 24 at 8.30pm in the Arklow Bay Hotel.

Following another very successful this year, it is hoped that many new faces will be interested in helping out in some way for the 2016 Festival.

Jupe Dublin band Jupe are headed to Whelan’s, Wexford Street on November 24 following the release of their new single, Rocket.

Rocket offers an explosion of modern pop, under which lies a fusion of soaring harmonies, anthemic pop melodies and verse synths. Tickets available from whelanslive.com.

Christmas lights The Christmas lights in Wicklow Town will be turned on by Santa himself on November 21 at 4.30pm.

Santa will leave by special transport, travelling down the Main Street from Wicklow Gaol into Fitzwilliam Square.

As the festive shopping period kicks off people are being encouraged to shop local.

wicklowvoice.ie November 12 2015

Laura finds love As Laura Whitmore prepares to jet Down Under for the new series of I’m a Celebrity, she has opened up about her break-up from The Coronas frontman Danny O’Reilly.

The Bray TV star has revealed that filming the 2012 series of the show was a low-point in her life saying “At the end of the day I was just a girl who was really hurt.”

Doing live TV every day and being on the other side of the world from friends and family took it’s toll on the MTV presenter.

“My mum flew over and I wasn’t well,” revealed the 30-yearold, adding that her father called concerned about the weight she had lost “because of the stress of everything that was going on.”

The media attention added to Whitmore’s stress levels.

But Whitmore appears to have moved on and is now in a relationship with Rory Williams, the frontman of indie rockers Sunset Sons.

Laura returns to our screens on ITV’s I’m a Celebrity...Get

Me Out of Here Now this week to keep on eye on the exploits of the following ‘stars’: Brian Friedman, Dancer and choreographer on The X Factor, Chris Eubank, former two-time World champion boxer, Duncan Bannatyne, Businessman and Dragon’s Den entrepreneur, George Shelley, Union J singer, Jorgie Porter, Hollyoaks actress, Kieron Dyer, former profession footballer, Lady Colin Campbell, Royal Biographer, Tony Hadley, Spandau Ballet singer, Yvette Fielding, TV presenter.

The main hour-long show, presented once again by Ant and Dec, will be broadcast nightly on ITV (9pm).

Sister show I’m a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here Now! will follow on ITV2 (10pm)

Sting in the tale Nettle firm nominated for top award

Wicklow start-up company, Neantóg, which uses nettles as its key ingredient, has been shortlisted for a national award.

The skincare company has been shortlisted in the Bank of Ireland Startup Awards 2015 in the Home or Craft Startup of the Year category.

At the time of going to press Neantóg, along with seven other companies who were shortlist-

ed, had just completed a round of interviews with the judging panel.

Heading the judging panel is Gavin Duffy of Dragon’s Den

who has over 40 years of experience with start-ups.

The awards ceremony takes place in Dublin’s Croke Park on the night of November 12.

Being shortlisted will provide a boost for Neantóg as they make their name in the competitive skincare industry.

The range of products are handmade by Una Lambert and The Irish Nettle Company at the foothills of the Wicklow mountains.

The plant is harvested by hand in the unspoiled countryside.

Natural nettle based products have been used since medieval times as they nourish and promote self-healing.

The natural product range is the result of several years of research into the versatility of the stinging nettle plant.

Neantóg use ethical and fairtrade ingredients throughout their line.

The range includes facial moisturisers, hand and body lotions, bath and haircare, aftershaves and gift sets.

Products are currently available from select retailers across the country and from their website.

If Neantóg win their category they will receive a range of supports including technical workshops and mentoring, extensive media coverage, access to IBM’s complete software catalogue and much more.

The winners of each of the ten categories will then have the chance to win the title of Startup Business of the Year.

The prize includes an advertising and design package from Bank of Ireland valued at €56,000.

November 12 2015 wicklowvoice.ie

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08| NEWS news in brief Christmas raffle The annual Christmas Raffle in aid of Wicklow Lifeboat will be held on November 14 in Phil Healy’s, Wicklow Town at 9pm.

There will be tickets on sale on the night with lots of great prizes on offer.

Entertainment will be provided by The Maguire Family.

wicklowvoice.ie November 12 2015

Wiki Loves Niall’s photo of Wicklow

Bray Cualann The November meeting of the Bray Cualann Historical Society takes place at 8pm on November 19 in the new meeting venue of The Royal Hotel, Bray.

On the evening, Peter Carroll will present A Tribute to Fran O’Toole.

All welcome to attend.

Admission is €4.

Raynaud’s support

By Michelle McGlynn

If you have or suspect you could have Raynaud’s then attend this Raynaud’s and Sclerodema support group in the Wilton Hotel, Bray on November 30 at 7.30pm.

Everyone is welcome patients, carers, friends.

For more details contact Michèle on 086 3424106.

A photo of Wicklow’s Castleruddery monument has won a top photography prize.

Wiki Loves Monuments, the world’s largest photography competition, has chosen Niall O’Donovan’s photo of the stone circle at Castleruddery, near

Baltinglass as one of Ireland’s top entries.

“I am delighted to have one of my photographs of the Castleruddery Stone Circle awarded in the Wiki Loves Monuments Ireland 2015 competition,” Niall told the Wicklow Voice.

“A tricky site to photograph, so for this shot I got right down low to

the ground and shot the setting sun by the stones.

“This tries to capture the relationship of the sun to stone circles.”

Niall’s photo was ranked eighth out of over 1,500 entries and he received his award at a ceremony in the Stag’s Head pub in Dublin this week.

The Wiki Loves Monuments

encourages people to take the time to enjoy and appreciate the beauty and history of their own country and county.

“There are some wonderful sights around the country and especially in Wicklow, that are just off the beaten track,” says Niall. “I would really encourage everyone to get out and enjoy our rich heritage.”

15 houses change hands for more than €1 million

By Michelle McGlynn

The sale of million-euro homes in Wicklow has risen sharply in the first nine months of 2015.

The number of homes worth over €1 million sold in the first nine months of the year is greater than the total number sold in the county in 2014.

To date, a total of 15 properties have changed hands with a price tag of €1m or more, according to figures obtained by the Wicklow Voice from the Property Price Register (PPR).

This is up 40% when compared to the same period in 2014 when just nine properties of similar value were sold.

The second quarter of this year was especially busy for highvalue property sales as eight of the 15 were sold during this time.

The same period last year saw just one million-euro home trade

hands. The first three months of the year indicated a decline in the number of million-euro houses being purchased in the Garden County but this was not a trend that continued in the months to follow.

Wicklow was the only county in Leinster to experience a fall in overall transactions (13%) in the first quarter, but estate agents claimed lack of stock and new housing developments distorted figures.

October was a quiet month in both 2014 and 2015 as no properties of this value were sold.

However, last year saw a surge in buyers looking to the top end of the market in December.

Greystones has seen the highest number of million-euro transactions with five so far this year, while Enniskerry has had three such sales.

In an unusual turn, one property features on the PPR in both

2014 and 2015 - Boystown House, Blessington.

Boystown House is also the most expensive property listed each year with its 2015 price registered at €6.35m.

Nationally, 140 properties costing €1m or more were sold during the third quarter of this year - 120 of these were in Dublin.

When we exclude the capital, only Cork and Kildare registered more high value transactions than Wicklow during this period.

The average house sold between June and September cost €235,429, according to figures, which represents a 12% rise compared with the second quarter of the year.

The highest price rise recorded in the latest figures was in Kilkenny, which rose 25% and where the ‘average’ home sold cost €175,756.

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10 | OPINION

opinion&comment

We’re a new type of school

L

ast week, I officially launched as a member of a new political party, the Social Democrats.

I am now formally part of a brand new party, spearheaded at the Dail level by Stephen Donnelly TD, Roisin Shorthall TD and Catherine Murphy TD with the goal of bringing fresh thinking into the Irish political landscape.

In essence, we are about building strong communities that are underpinned by a thriving economy. Social democratic values are ones of transparency and fairness. I am very proud to be able to call myself a member of the team.

But, why did I join?

My husband and I lived and worked in Australia for 10 years. The hardest part about being an emigrant was not knowing if we would ever get a chance to come back home. From what I could see, Ireland’s political system was not the solution - it was, and still is, a large part of the problem. Decades of shortterm thinking, cronyism and election politics had not served Ireland well, and unfortunately, despite the many promises, nothing has changed.

Thankfully, my husband and I did manage to make it back home (much to my mothers delight - it was costing her a fortune in monthly boxes of Cadburys and Tayto). From my time in Australia, where I worked with Governments implementing change and improvements into state functions, I wanted to get involved and contribute locally and so I began to work on a voluntary basis with Stephen Donnelly.

Despite never having any political ambition, I felt I needed to run for the 2014 local elections in the Greystones District. I ran as an Independent because I couldn’t trust any of the existing parties.

For the most part, I could not relate to the people that the traditional parties seemed to attract. They were generally men (23 out of 24 were men after the 2009 local election), whose social priorities were different from mine and that had been in the political arena for quite a while. Some politicians have never held jobs other than political jobs -what practical, real world experience or expertise could they bring if they never worked outside of politics?

That is why I ran. To be honest, I thought that we needed less politicians in politics.

I am very glad that I ran in the election.

I believe that I have made a difference.

I enjoy working with communities to get things done. This week I will help replant and tidy parts of Church Lane in Greystones with local residents and Tidy Towns. And I hope shortly to get funding for a beach wheelchair so everybody, regardless of mobility, can use our lovely beach. These are small things, but they impact on a large number of people.

But the change that I believe is needed

for the country I can’t make that change as an Independent. That very significant change can only happen, I believe, via a party structure, and at multiple levels of government.

If I was asked what my biggest fear for Ireland is, it is that Ireland becomes a very polarised country. A country where it’s harder to connect or empathise with each other on a personal basis because we feel like we are in competition with each other for resources - like school places, houses, jobs. Where we are under such pressure to look after our own family, that we forget that others are struggling too. Now, I think that we are a long way from that scenario - my recent experience with the Syrian refugee appeal has shown that there is still great heart and compassion in our local community. But what happens if we remain on the same trajectory as we are now?

We need a party that we can trust and that has a long-term vision for Ireland - one that is based on strong communities and underpinned by robust businesses that are very much a part of those communities.

And that is why I have joined the Social Democrats.

I will continue to work for the people of Greystones, Kilcoole, Delgany and Newcastle as I have to date. I will continue to work with individuals and communities to make Wicklow a better place to live.

My ambition to achieve that work will not change or diminish.

But I am now a part of something bigger - a party that can change the direction that we are going in as a country. A party that can make Ireland a better place for everyone.

my biggest fear for Ireland is that it becomes a polarised country, where it’s harder to connect with each other because we feel we are in competition for resources

“T

There is a straight line from that partying in the Galway tent to the tents provided to the homeless on our streets.

Tweets of the week

Panti Bliss @PantiBliss “ ‘Delayed. Wait in lounge.’ ranks right up there with ‘Zayne Quits One Direction’ in terms of emotional trauma.”

David O’Doherty @phlaimeaux “Always chuckle at a barbershop where men with the same haircut give those same haircuts to other men in chairs. Reminds me of 80s Lego” Louise O’Connor @oconnola “I asked someone in the supermarket to validate my parking. There was no meter or anything, I just needed to know whether I’d done a good job”

Niall Breslin @nbrez “Never good to see people get off ferry you are waiting for white as ghosts with a look of unadulterated fear.”

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 Jennifer Whitmore with Anne Ferris

Housing issues began in FF’s Galway tent here’s a tragic irony in the understanding that Wicklow’s housing problems originated in a tent in County Galway.

Somewhere in the Fianna Fail secret archives is a tally of the bottles of expensive wine and fine dining that entertained construction millionaires invited to the Fianna Fail party’s infamous annual Galway Races marquee over the ten years of Fianna Fail dominated governments immediately prior to the economic crash.

By the year 2005, while government ministers were carousing with the captains of construction and golfing with bankers, Ireland already had a higher construction output per capita than any other European country and twice the construction output of the United Kingdom.

The Fianna Fail government received €2 billion in stamp duty revenue from property transactions in 2005, a threefold increase over a three year period when the total value of mortgage debt rose from €33 billion to €200 billion. The average mortgage in the year 2000 had been €100,000 but by 2005 the average mortgage had grown to €200,000 with a third of all homes costing €300,000.

The subsequent crash has been a difficult time for us all. Most families in Ireland, including my own, have been affected by the unsustainable mortgage debt legacy of the Celtic Tiger years.

People employed in the construction industry were amongst the hardest hit by that reckless government and banking behaviour. Plumbers, electricians, architects and engineers left Ireland in droves.

Housebuilding came to a halt leaving half-built ghost estates and new hotels that nobody could afford to stay in. Lists for social housing grew out of control and the private rental market was in many ways not fit for purpose. There is a straight line path from that relentless partying in the Galway tent to the tents provided by homeless agencies to the homeless on our streets.

This Labour/ Fine Gael government has presided over a slow and steady economic recovery since 2011. Recovery has not been easy. We inherited a situation of high unemployment and scarce tax revenue to fund public services. It has taken time, investment and strategy to create jobs and repair the economy.

Unemployment has fallen from a high 15.7% (it could have gone even higher) to 9.4% and is still falling. The economy is growing but it has taken a series of policy and legislative changes, some of which have not yet taken full effect, to address the housing issue.

Compared to some other counties, Wicklow uses its existing housing stock to the fullest. We don’t have many boarded-up houses awaiting renovation work.

There weren’t very many ghost estates transferred to NAMA in this county but with government funding a significant number of such units have transferred to the voluntary housing sector.

The package of measures just announced by Ministers Alan Kelly and Michael Noonan will see rents in the private rental market effectively freeze during 2016 while carefully thought out tax incentives have been linked to the requirement to provide affordable homes for purchase.

Minister Kelly has already put in place a social housing plan casted at €4 billion aimed at removing the social housing lists from every county. Wicklow County Council knows that money has been ring-fenced for the construction of social homes in this county. The rate and pace of applications by Wicklow for this money has been painfully slow. It hasn’t helped matters that this is a new council, with a lot of first-time councillors still finding their feet.

The Wicklow Housing Strategic Policy Committee, the entity responsible for creating the county’s housing policy, wasted a full year before getting to grips with the housebuilding priority list.

Imagine a priority list for social housing that put Bray, Wicklow and Arklow the bottom of the list? That’s what had happened in this county under the watch of the Sinn Fein and Independent dominated Housing SPC. Sometimes I wonder if they actually want to implement the government’s housebuilding programme.

The message from Labour and government is clear. The money is there waiting to be spent on new social homes if Wicklow County Council would just get its act together and send in the required information and applications to the Department of Environment. Sending the Housing SPC council members on a training course about social housing probably wouldn’t be a bad idea either.

Anne Ferris is the Labour TD for Wicklow and East Carlow and Vice Chair of the Oireachtas Committee on Justice, Defence and Equality.

OPINION| 11

November 12 2015 wicklowvoice.ie

anyotherbusiness

Thor needs to hammer burglars and criminals

T

he recent initiatives announced by An Garda Siochana to combat crime are particularly welcome for County Wicklow.

Large parts of our county are isolated and sparsely populated and therefore vulnerable to the criminals and criminal gangs responsible for this type of crime, in particular burglaries and theft, othen with violence used.

It feels like more and more reports of rural crime made the news during the recession years, at a time when resources available to An Garda Siochana were being cut and station closures abounded. People living in isolated farms targeted in burglaries. Thefts of livestock and machinery from farms.

Christmas trees being looted in the run-up to the seasonal market.

Operation Thor, which is targetting burglaries, and Operation Hurdle, which is aimed at rural crime, the two newly-announced initiatives, are only possible because of extra government funding (Thor alone has a €5m funding). You could be cynical and say that the funding – along with some tax cuts and other sweeteners to remove the bitter taste of years of austerity – has made a timely appearance with an election looming on the horizon.

This is a fair point, but doesn’t tell the whole story. The money gone to these initiatives could easily have been spent elsewhere. In funding these initiatives the government has shown that it is listening to the people of rural Ireland who

Brian Quigley have been hurt by increasing crime. People have had enough and they want action. They don’t care if the action comes in the run-up to an election or not, they just want to see something being done, some sort of help arriving from official channels that can bolster the help rural communities can provide themselves.

Living in a rural area has many benefits. You live away from the cities and towns and their associated pollution, noise and overcrowding. But there are drawbacks too.

The isolation, the loneliness, the distances that have to be travelled to avail of certain services. And, in recent years, the ever-increasing fear of criminals who see you as a soft target and are prepared to travel from the cities and towns to do you a wrong.

Alan Shatter recently defended the station closures he presided over during his time as a minister in this government, saying that the increase in rural crime wasn’t linked to the closures. In some ways he is right.

Closing the stations was wrong on a moral ground because it sent the wrong message to communities, but modern

criminal gangs specialising in rural crime would be unlikely to be brought to justice by rural Gardai alone. The kind of specialised response units and supporting vehicles Thor will provide would never have been present in rural stations.

It’s ironic that the excellent road networks and infrastructure developments we have been able to provide to rural areas during the boom years as a platform for job creation should turn out to be a hindrance in times of recession.

They have allowed criminals easier access to rural areas, and easier escape from the same after robberies and burglaries have been committed.

They must have arrogantly felt like they were shooting fish in a barrel. Hopefully one of the other aspects promised in Thor – stricter sentencing – will help to see rates of rural crime drop off and repeat offenders incarcerated for longer stretches.

At the end of the day An Garda Siochana can’t catch every criminal or prevent every crime. There has to be an element of communities looking after themselves.

This is easier in urban areas where a neighbourhood watch type scheme is easy to set up and effective in its functioning.

In rural areas it is more difficult due to the large distances involved and limited resident numbers.

But the new initiatives will give people hope and this is a good starting point to galvanise and motivate communities into doing more to protect themselves. Together we are stronger.

Have you got a story?

Then email info@wicklowvoice.ie

Greystones Cancer Support Super Draw in Summervilles

Mark and Carole Kinsella of Greystones Cancer Support (GCS). Mark very generously donated the second prize, iPad Mini which was won by Al Nolan.

Anna O’Rourke pulling out winning ticket for her gorgeous South Beach Sunrise photograph - won by Heather Surpless.

Katie Doyle and Niamh Tait from Summervilles

Anne Doody and Eileen Horan of GCS

12 | SPECIAL REPORT wicklowvoice.ie November 12 2015

International rugby lea

Wales crowned champions in packed carlisle ground

By Michelle McGlynn It’s geat news for rugby fans as Rugby League matches could become a fixture in Bray.

Last weekend, almost 1,500 rugby fans descended on the Carlisle Grounds as the Rugby League European Championships arrived in Bray.

In a thrilling match, Ireland put in a huge effort but were defeated by a tough Wales side.

The match was the first competitive Rugby League International to be played in the county and it was welcomed by fans around the county.

“The match was a major success,” Graeme McWilliams of Rugby League Ireland told the

Wicklow Voice. “There was a fantastic atmosphere on the day and Rugby League Ireland are confident that Bray could provide a platform to further grow the game in Ireland.”

The huge turnout and support for the game last weekend could result in matches regularly being played in the grounds in the future. “Bray really got behind us over the weekend,” said McWilliams.

“This extended from the Royal Hotel where the players and officials stayed though to the staff at the Carlisle Grounds who provided a top class playing surface.”

It wasn’t Ireland’s day but

supporters enjoyed themselves nonetheless as Wales secured the European Championship title with a decisive 30-4 win.

Wales only needed a draw to claim the title for the first time in five years but with a 22 point lead at halftime victory was in their sights.

The first half saw tries for Wales from Dalton Grant, Lewis Reece, Steve Parry and Rhodri Lloyd.

Coutney Davies kicked a total of 10 points and it was his penalty, sent deep into Irish territory, that resulted in Grant’s try.

Liam Finn and Elliot Cosgrove threatened John Kear’s Wales side early on

but the visitors managed to break away and score their second try.

Defensive mistakes were punished in the second half and saw Davies add to his kicked points.

Ireland’s arrival on the scoreboard came 72 minutes into the match as Callum Mulkeen touched down in the corner.

“We congratulate Wales for their well-earned victory on the day and indeed on winning the overall championship,” McWilliams said.

Their win over the Irish team secured the title for Wales at the expense of France who had defeated Scotland 32-18 earlier that day.

See p23

18th December 2015 COMING SOON

Call (01)2862935 or email sales@royalhotel.ie.

www.royalhotel.ie

November 12 2015 wicklowvoice.ie

SPECIAL REPORT | 13

ague comes to wicklow

1 2 3 4 5

14 | WHAT’S HOT WILDLIFE

with Justin Ivory

Woodlouse. Photo Justin Ivory

Weird woodlouse Winter is coming! No I haven’t changed my name to Stark and officially winter is here but the un-seasonally mild weather has not caught up yet. But it soon will and with it most of our insects and other invertebrates will die off or disappear into hiding - except for one armour clad, denizen of the dark, damp places – the woodlouse.

These primitive looking creatures stay active all winter and can be found under leaf litter, rocks and rotten wood. They mainly feed on decaying plant matter and are an important part of the nutrient recycling process.

A woodlouse’s body armour consists of hard, overlapping plates made from calcium carbonate – essentially chalk. These plates are not waterproof and this is important, not because woodlice need to keep water out, the opposite they need to keep water in.

If caught out in the sunlight they will lose water rapidly and it is essential a woodlouse stays moist at all times. Why? Turn a woodlouse over and you will see gills at its’ back end. Yes, gills, for woodlice are Ireland’s only terrestrial crustaceans – the same group that contains crabs, lobsters, shrimps and prawns! This is why woodlice are found in damp places – they must keep their gills wet to be able to breathe properly.

Woodlice belong to a subgroup of crustaceans known as isopods, which means ‘identical legs’. Take a closer look at a woodlouse and you will see it has 7 pairs of more-or-less identical legs.

Being active throughout the winter, woodlice fulfil another vital role – they are an essential food source for other creatures during the lean winter months. Those that avoid predation will go on to mate. The female carries the fertilised eggs in a brood pouch between her front legs. The eggs hatch into this liquid filled pouch until eventually emerging as perfectly formed miniature versions of their parents.

So grab a magnifying glass and the kids and go on a safari to the garden to discover these mini-beasts for yourself.

wicklowvoice.ie November 12 2015

Wedding Fair of the week Druids Glen Winter Wedding Fair Druids Glen Hotel and Golf Resort, Newtownmountkennedy, November 15, 1pm-5pm Plan your picture perfect wedding at Druids Glen Resort. You will be spoiled for choice from stunning backdrops for memorable photos to delectable menu choices and exceptional quality delivered with unobtrusive friendly service which is second to none. You can view all of this and more at their Winter Wedding Fair on November 15.

Enjoy mulled wine and mince pies as you soak up the atmosphere.

You will have the opportunity to speak with a range of wedding vendors to help you source inspiration and ideas for your special day.

The exclusive wedding venue caters to ceremonies of all sizes. Their magical extra touches will help to make it a day you’ll never forget.

To pre-book an appointment, contact the Druids Glen Wedding Coordinator, Nessa Kearney on 01 2870811 or email nessa.kearney@ druidsglenresort.com

business of the week Wigoders Unit 4, Castle Street Shopping Centre, Bray, 01 2869173 The original wallpaper and paint company recently returned to Bray and they have brought great value with them.

Wigoders is your one-stop-shop for home decorating with a variety of decorating materials in store. In addition to home decorating products, Wigoders also provide expert colour consultancy advice. Staff are always on hand and happy to provide you with professional advice and answer any queries you may have. Unlike other DIY stores, the family-run business pride themselves on bringing big store value with the top quality customer service of a small store. With great in-store offers, why not drop in today and see how they can help you to spruce up your home?

book of the week Surviving Ireland

By Colm Tobin Here, comedian Colm Tobin unmasks the true essence of this mysterious mistgreen land with its jagged teddy-bear outline, lurking guiltily to the Western edge of Europe. Are the Irish really the slick, upwardly-mobile, bright-young things of Europe with the skinny jeans and the unnecessary spectacles? Or are they slack-jawed simpletons you see staring toothlessly out of postcards, patting their donkeys, patiently waiting for death? Irishness means more than simply holding a passport with a harp on it. Some say you can hear Irishness in the lonesome lilt of uileann pipes. That you can smell it in the farts of a billion Guinness drinkers.

Look hard enough and you can see it winking back at you from the shimmering, oily thighs of Michael Flatley. But what is it, really? It’s safe to say that Ireland is no longer just a physical place. Who are the Irish people now and where are they going? And who in the name of sweet Jesus is going to pay for it all?

TV SHOW of the week Peep Show Channel 4, Wednesdays, 10pm It’s time to say farewell to the El Dude Brothers. After eight tremendous series and a long wait, the final season of this unique and incredibly funny show has reached our screens. It will be a bittersweet affair for fans of the show which essentially made David Mitchell, Robert Webb and Olivia Colman household names.

The season opener is sure to put

Event of the week Keith Barry Out of Control Arklow Bay Hotel, Sea Road, November 26 TV hypnotist, mentalist and brain hacker, Keith Barry returns with his new show Out of Control. The first half of the show features brand new brain-hacking and mentalism experiments direct from Keith’s devious mind. Keith demonstrates that our thoughts are no longer our own as he manipulates and hacks even the most cynical of minds. Each night, every single person will have their mind blown in a mass experiment wherein he will prove their thoughts are Out of Control.

He will also perform an original and amazing ‘danger stunt’ where an audience member will fire a missile at his face at 700ft per second. And no, it’s not a bullet.

In the second half, Keith taps the phenomenon of hypnosis – an art he hasn’t performed in his live shows in over five years. Keith will invite audience members on stage to enter his Hypnotic World. Here, he will shut down the conscious mind, and allow people to do things they wouldn’t ordinarily do. No-one is safe!

a spring in your step as Jeremy and Mark head off to Super Hans’s stag night. Approaching 40, with emotional scars still smarting and an impending wedding on the horizon, it seems that things might take a turn for the lads. That turn won’t lead to a happy ending for Jeremy and Mark in case you were wondering how it will all end. “They will be in horrible pain as usual,” Webb said of the final series. “They will not win the lottery, they will not have a happy ending”.

6 7 8 9 10

WHAT’S HOT| 15

November 12 2015 wicklowvoice.ie

MOVIE of the week Fathers and Daughters Gaiety Cinema, Arklow Amanda Seyfried and Russell Crowe star in an emotionally powerful exploration of the parental bond. Jake Davies (Crowe) is a Pulitzer Prize winning novelist who was left to raise his young daughter Katie alone after his wife died in a tragic car accident. When Jake himself suffers failing health, Katie is sent to live with relatives. Twenty-five years later, the adult Katie (Seyfried) remains scarred by this traumatic formative experience and has trouble maintaining relationships. However, it turns out her latest partner, Cameron (Aaron Paul), is a big fan of her father’s writing. As the story develops, we learn of the extraordinary lengths to which Jake is prepared to go to hold on to the most important thing in his life - his daughter. The Pursuit of Happyness director Gabriele Muccino skilfully interweaves the narrative of this heart-wrenching drama between the 1980s and the present day.

HOROSCOPES

Christmas tip of the week La Touche Wines Christmas fair La Touche Place, Greystones, November 21, 3pm-7pm Christmas is in full swing at La Touche Wines as they ring in the festive season with their Christmas wine fair. There will be over 30 wines available for tasting during the evening. You can get some expert tips from the team to ensure that you

pick the perfect wine for your occasion. Stock up on all the wine that you will need over the festive season, all in one place. The evening is in aid of Greystones Cancer Support and Wicklow Hospice so your enjoyable evening will be helping to support two very important causes.

There will be a raffle with some fantastic prizes. Tickets are €15 and available at La Touche Wine Shop.

eating out idea of the week Macaris 112 Main Street, Bray, 01 2860311

christmas tip of the week Cycleplus Unit 16 Meridan Point Shopping Centre, Greystones, 01 2871504 No need to panic about where to buy your Christmas presents as CyclePlus are fully up and running at their new location in the Meridian Point Shopping Centre just in time for the festive season.

Be sure to take advantage of their Christmas club - open now.

With over 70 children’s bikes in stock, there is no shortage of cool models to choose from. Customers can choose the bike of their dreams and secure it with a 50% deposit. The remaining 50% can be paid in either one instalment or several smaller ones between now and Christmas. Once it has been paid off, the bike will be built and waiting for you to pick it up in the store at your convenience.

Be sure to get in early though as these bikes are sure to fly out the door as December approaches.

Gemini- This week is a 9 Concentrate on a new assignment and get help if you need it. Address a controversy with carefully documented facts.

Cancer- This week is a 7 Love blossoms with any encouragement at all. Gather information on the object of your desire. Invite friends for a night out.

Virgo- This week is a 9 Finish up a project. Entertain suggestions and editorial comments. Let the flavours simmer for perfect seasoning.

Words flow with ease.

GIG of the week

Through friendship, sessions and copious amounts of tea, Bunoscionn was created - a musical love-child, mothered

by Irish folk music and fathered by dance/reggae/rock. Based in Ireland the band consists of five musicians brought together from jams, sessions and the craic to form a group rooted in the traditional but with one foot held firmly outside the

Taurus- This week is an 8 Consider all possibilities. Share dreams and promises. Choose staying home with a loved one over going out.

Leo- This week is a 6 A little paint goes a long way.

Home cooking saves over eating out. Simple fare and rooms soothe your spirit. Nurture your garden.

Macaris Bray are delighted to announce the opening of their brand new dine-in area. The new section of the takeaway can seat up to 24 people. Now when you find yourself craving some delicious fish and chips you can take some time out to sit in and satisfy your appetite. With the selection of food on their menu - each more delicious than the last - they have something to suit every member of the family. If you’re not a fan of fish, you can go with the classic burger or chicken. If you’re feeling a bit more adventurous you could always pick up a kebab or go for a nice wrap.

Whatever you’re in the mood for, you will find it on the menu at Macari’s. Serving up top quality food since 1978, Macari’s will never disappoint.

Bunoscionn The Harbour Bar, Bray seafront, November 19, 8pm

Aries- This week is a 7 Heed a call to action for something you feel passionate about. If communications break down, wait for later.

box. With a diverse range of vocals, instruments and styles, Bunoscionn can be found performing high energy shows at festivals and venues to fireside sessions in a pub and everything in between. Bunoscionn started out in pubs but soon found themselves playing at some of the best festivals in Ireland including Electric Picnic, Spirit of Folk and Knockanstockan. All this while self recording their own EP of original compositions. Now you can catch their energetic set at the Harbour Bar.

Libra- This week is a 7 Practice to increase your skills.

Focus on making money.

Intuition guides your work.

Juggle a disruption to your schedule.

Scorpio- This week is an 8 Abandon procrastination. Use your power responsibly. Be cautious with love and money.

Romance fizzles if left out in the rain.

Sagittarius- This week is a 9 Household issues take an abrupt turn. Concentrate on cleaning up. Guard against breakage.

Be sensitive to a loved one’s wishes.

Capricorn- This week is a 6 Your friends are your inspiration. Committees are especially effective. Enjoy a party phase. Find what you need nearby.

Aquarius- This week is an 8 A professional opportunity won’t wait. Defend your position gracefully. Don’t waste money on gadgets you won’t use. Keep focused.

Pisces- This week is a 7 New opportunities present themselves. Take care.

Anticipate disagreement. Let your partner take the lead.

Simplify matters as much as possible.

16 | lifestyle

my favourite things

wicklowvoice.ie November 12 2015

WHAT’s HOT

with Sinead McCourt info@wicklowvoice.ie

Mad about

the boy OK boys, James Bond is back on our screens and he can teach you a thing or two about style. We have chosen some key pieces to keep your casual wardrobe up to date for the winter months.

Footwear Trainers have become a key part of men’s attire. Brian O’Driscoil was uploading his fancy customized Adidas kicks on Instagram last week. These on trend New Balance 410 Trainers €88.24 are great addition to brighten your winter look available online at ASOS For the more formal or dressy look there are some great boots around. Check out these on trend Brogue Tan Boots from Next €91 Jeans A good pair of jeans are essential in every wardrobe and it is always wise to invest in denim. [Should you explain why here?]

Everyone has their own style they like to stick to. These smart looking jeans are from Superdry, Brown Thomas, for €85.

Knitwear A staple of the winter wardrobe and also essential with the cold weather en route. This H&M dark plum jumper in textured knit €39.99 adds a splash of colour for your look this season would look great when teamed with a denim shirt or even a T-Shirt.

Coats The shops floors are filled with every colour and different texture of parkas. This coat just never seems to go out of fashion. It is iconic and it is practical. Check out this one from Zara for €79.95.

... and the girl Not to forget the ladies, we have gathered some great pieces to help you keep cozy and comfortable this winter while still looking effortlessly fashionable. And let’s face it - that’s the dream.

Main pic: Jacket €49.99, Jumper €24.99, Stole €24.99, Necklace €22.99, all New Look.

Left: Ribbed dress, F&F, €25 and Wedge boots, Penneys, €16.

Right: Bobble hat, Next, €14.50.

lifestyle | 17

November 12 2015 wicklowvoice.ie

Peter Byrne

Head Chef at Sika Restaurant in The Powerscourt Hotel

food in wicklow

Herb crusted cod Ingredients 4x 100g portions of cod 2 tbsp Dijon mustard Tomato fondue 360g bread 300g soft butter 40g brioche

1 bunch parsley picked 10g picked thyme 160g gruyere cheese Method: Blend the bread brioche butter herbs and grated cheese together in a food

processor until get a smooth green paste Mould it into a large sausage about 5 cm diameter Clingfilm and freeze Spread the top of the cod with mustard then

tomato fondue slice a thin bit of the frozen herb crust and place it on the top bake in the oven for 6 -8 minutes then serve The herb crust will keep in the freezer for a couple of months

Winter Wedding Fair

Sunday 15th November, 1pm – 5pm

Enjoy mulled wine and mince pies as you soak up the festive atmosphere and view our facilities and wedding set up.

Chat with a range of wedding vendors to source inspiration and ideas for your big day.

To pre-book an appointment please contact our Wedding Co-ordinator, Nessa Kearney T 01 287 0811 E nessa.kearney@druidsglenresort.com

www.druidsglenresort.com | Newtownmountkennedy, Co. Wicklow.

18 | SPECIAL REPORT wicklowvoice.ie November 12 2015

Wrap up warm for Winter

1. Open fires can be wasteful of energy with more than 70% of the energy going up the chimney. Using good quality wood and coal will help prevent this.

2. 20ºC is an ideal room temperature. Turning down thermostats by 1ºC can reduce annual space heating energy consumption by 10% with an equivalent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. Heat bedroom areas to less than 18ºC.

3. Proper temperature and zone control of your central heating system can reduce fuel consumption by 10-20%.

There is a Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (S.E.A.I.) grant for a heating controls upgrade.

4. Homeowners can typically reduce their energy usage by up to 20% by installing a high efficiency condensing boiler or range cooker as a replacement for older lower efficiency mod-

els. There is a S.E.A.I. grant for this measure.

5. Regular servicing of your heating boiler is recommended.

For example, servicing a kerosene boiler, which has not been serviced for 3 years, will bring about an immediate fuel reduction of some 5%.

6. If a radiator is mounted below a window, a projecting window-board or shelf above

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SPECIAL REPORT | 19

November 12 2015 wicklowvoice.ie

the radiator will direct warm air into the room, reducing heat loss through the window.

7. A lagging jacket on your hot water cylinder will keep water hotter for longer and pay for itself in 2-3 months. If replacing the hot water cylinder, a rapid heat recovery cylinder with factory-applied insulation should be considered. Such insulation is more effective at retaining heat than a lagging jacket, is less easily damaged

and cannot be pulled out of place.

8. Heat the hot water cylinder by means of the central heating boiler rather than by immersion on full rate electricity, as the running costs will be much lower. Use a timer if the immersion heater has to be used.

9. Combining solar collectors with a wood-burning stove provides an ideal year-round renewable energy heating

solution. A solar collector system can provide around 60% of your annual hot water needs for free (80 to 90% in summer).

There is a S.E.A.I. grant for solar panels.

10. Insulate your attic and save up to 20% on your home heating bill.

Much of the heat loss from a house occurs through the windows particularly if they are single glazed.

20| ADVERTISING wicklowvoice.ie November 12 2015

November 12 2015 wicklowvoice.ie

ADVERTISING | 21

22 | SPORT

wicklowvoice.ie November 12 2015

sport in brief An Tochar Our annual presentation evening will take place on November 22. Rumour has it a celebrity guest will be in attendance to help with the presentations.

Get well soon to Tom Mulligan and Paddy Cunningham who are currently in hospital.

Arklow Geraldines AGB Ladies AGM on November 13 at 8pm in the Harbour Bar. The Ladies Committee are now seeking nominations for the 2016 committee. Nomination and Motion forms are posted on website. Alternatively please contact Orla Boyle at 087 9280338. All members, parents and supporters are invited to attend.

The Presentation day for the U8-U14 Girls will be held on November 15 from 12pm-2pm at Arklow Rocks Clubhouse.

The Annual General Meeting of the Arklow Geraldines Ballymoney GAA Club will take place on November 18 at 8pm in Gaelcholáiste Na Mara.

Nomination and Motion forms are posted on website.

The U16 - Adult Ladies’ and Mens’ Presentation will be held on November 21 at 8pm upstairs

The AGB Dance Troupe are once again County Champions in Scór na n-Óg. This is the third year in a row that they have achieved this success. Come along and support them at the Leinster semi-finals in St Mary’s Hall, Arklow on December 13 in Christy’s.

The Annual Table Quiz with a Twist is on December 3 at 8pm in the Olde Ship, Arklow. Come have a great night, start your December in style with AGB. Prizes on the night for the best effort. €20 per table.

Great report on the Cup Semifinal where AGB Senior Ladies met Tinahely on November 6 with the aim of defending the Cup title they have held for the last two years. It was not to be for AGB but was a nailbiting encounter for players and supporters alike.

The U8 boys’ training on a Wednesday night has finished for 2015. See you all in 2016.

A group of AGB girls have set up a St. Mary’s TY Mini Company selling personalised GAA gloves.

For more info see them on Facebook at Gloves Going Global or Twitter @clubgaagloves.

Bray Wanderers There was no jackpot winner on November 8.

Numbers drawn were 5, 11, 19 and 27. €30 lucky dip winners were John Keating c/o John Keating; D. Crinion c/o Declan Crinion c/o Bray Lakers; Eric Crinion c/o D. Crinion; Jade Moloney

c/o V. Walsh.

Next week’s jackpot is €10,850.

The Supporters Club Player of the Year awards presentation will take place on Saturday 14 November.

Awards will be presented for Bray Wanderers Senior and Young player of the year and top goal scorer and monthly awards. Also U19 POTY for season 2014/15.

The venue will be the Barracuda Restaurant, Bray seafront, and the event will start at 8pm.

Admission is €10. To book a place text your name to 087 9968969.

Cumann na mBunscol Day 2 of the Allianz Coughlan Cup took place in Bray Emmets recently. Division 1 and Allianz Coughlan Cup winners were St Kevin’s, St Laurence’s were the runners up.

Division 1 player of the tournament was Patrick Byrne, St Laurence’s. Ashford claimed Division 2, with Roundwood as runners up. Division 2 player of the tournament was Noah Sheridan, Ashford.

Winners of Division 3 were Gaelscoil ui Cheadaigh Bre and runners up were St Brigid’s Greystones, with the player

of the division going to Niall Sheahan. Division 4 is to be rearranged as schools were unable to travel on the day.

Indoor hurling will take place in Aughrim Community Hall on the week of November 16.

While indoor camogie will take place in Aughrim Community Hall on the week of November 23. Finals week to follow in December.

If you are interested contact Leighton Glynn at 083 3645136 or leighton.glynn.gda. wicklow@gaa.ie The annual Allianz Cumann na mBunscol Tráth na gCeist will take place on November 19 at 7.30pm in Lynhams of Laragh.

If your school is interested in taking part please contact cuddihybilly@gmail.com as soon as possible. If each school taking part could bring at least two raffle prizes for the night that would be great.

Shankill GAA The girls U11 team enjoyed a blitz hosted by Kilmacud Crokes.

Men’s adult football team is taking a short break before training resumes in preparation for the new season. New players always welcome contact Kevin 086 8449902.

Juvenile Academy is in action this Saturday morning (check the venue) at 10am catering for 4-8 year old boys and girls.

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sport| 23

November 12 2015 wicklowvoice.ie

insideback

with Brian Quigley

County champs out of Leinster Last Sunday saw Wicklow’s Senior Hurling club county champions and Senior Football club county champions both eliminated from their respective Leinster competitions.

Bray Emmets were knocked out of the Leinster Intermediate Club Hurling Championsip (despite being Senior Champions of Wicklow this is the Leinster club hurling competition a Wicklow club is placed in) at the semi-final stage, going down 1-06 to 0-18 against Bennettsbridge of Kilkenny in Arklow.

Emmets deserve enormous praise and credit for getting this far.

It is certainly no disgrace to exit a hurling competition at the hands of a Kilkenny team!

On the same day at the County Grounds in Aughrim Rathnew were beaten in the quarterfinal of the Leinster Senior Club Football Championship, going down to St Loman’s of Mullingar by 1-06 to 2-10.

Again, great credit is due to the village side for getting this far.

Greystones Greystones RFC bounced back from defeat the previous week to beat Rainey Old Boys 27-23 at Dr Hickey Park on Saturday 07 November. This hard-fought but well-deserved victory lifted the Seagulls up to third in Division 2B of the All Ireland Rugby League.

They have a break from league action until 28 November when they take on Barnhall at Parsonstown.

Buying?

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e: info@ wicklowvoice.ie w: www. wicklowvoice.ie t: 01 901 5565

St Kevin’s celebrate their Division 1 Allianz Coughlan cup victory in Bray Emmets last weekend

Ireland defeated by Wales A different code to the rugby union played by Greystones RFC but the Carlisle Grounds has been hosting Rugby League Ireland (RLI) matches this year and last Saturday saw the home side lose out to Wales in the European Championship decider. Wales only needed a draw to wrap up the title but overpowered Ireland with a 30-4 victory which included 5 tries. Wales were 22-0 up at the break but Ireland played better in the second period and Callum Mulkeen got a deserved consolation try.

The game was an exciting spectacle for the crowd of 1,405 (a good attendance when you consider the sport of rugby league is in its infancy in Ireland) and it is a real feather in the cap for the county to be hosting RLI. Credit is due to Bray Wanderers AFC and the Royal Hotel for helping stage and host the event.

Bray Wanderers It was a real treat to see the victorious Bray Wanderers FAI Cup team from 1990 honoured before kick-off at the Cup Final between Dundalk and Cork last Sunday. Manager Pat Devlin of course master-minded a second FAI Cup win for the County Wicklow outfit in 1999. Back in 1990, when the Aviva Stadium was still Lansdowne Road, Wanderers overcame St Francis 3-0 thanks to a John Ryan hattrick. This time out Dundalk ran out winners of the Cup, with four ex-Wanderers in their

ranks! The current squad will be honoured at the Bray Wanderers Supporters Club Player of the Year awards ceremony this Saturday in the Barracuda on Bray Seafront, when the BWSC awards for the season will be revealed. This column’s Bray Wanderers player of the season is Dave Scully. When the club needed a senior player of his calibre to step up and encourage the younger players to maintain focus despite off-field issues, Dave wasn’t found wanting.

Thanks and well done, Dave.

24 | ADVERTISING

wicklowvoice.ie November 12 2015

Health Club Open Day Sunday 15 November, 8am – 8pm th

Avail of our 12 hour Membership Sale

6 Weeks €120 plus 2 weeks free 3 Months €200 plus 1 month free 6 Months €350 plus 1 month free

Class Studio Schedule

Try out one of our classes on the day 9am Boxfit (30 minute class) 11am Spin & Tone (60 minute class) 1pm Pilates (30 minute class) Advance booking essential

Swimming Technique

9 – 9.30am | 10 – 10.30am | 11 – 11.30am

Nutrition Talk 12.15pm Childrens’ Swim Times 9am – 12 Noon | 3pm – 7pm

T 01 287 0821 E wesley.reid@druidsglenresort.com Newtownmountkennedy, Co. Wicklow.

www.druidsglenresort.com