Wicklow Voice November 26 2015

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Unit 8, Radio Centre , Killarney Road, Bray

OPENS AT THE ROYAL HOTEL FRIDAY 4TH DECEMBER

AWARD-WINNING FOOD, PERFECTLY POURED DRINKS & EXCELLENT LIVE ENTERTAINMENT

Royal Hotel, Main Street, Bray, Co. Wicklow. bray@mcgettigans.com www.mcgettigans.com IRELAND | UAE |SINGAPORE | USA | UK

wicklowvoice.ie November 26 2015

N O S I T A N I M U L CHRISTMAS IL The official Switch-on of the Christmas Lights and Fireworks Display

SATURDAY 28TH NOVEMBER, BRAY CIVIC PLAZA, MAIN STREET From 4.30pm / Admission FREE • MC Declan Meehan, East Coast FM • Christmas DJ • Bray Musical Society • St. Cronan’s Boy’s Choir • Bray Community Choir

Ceantar Bardasach Bhré Municipal District of Bray

Christmasinbray.com

Comhairle Contae Chill Mhantáin Wicklow County Council

LAWLESS HOTEL AUGHRIM WEDDING FAIR Sunday Nov 29th 2-5pm

Lawless Hotel will host their Wedding Fair on Sunday November 29th 2-5pm.

We are calling on all Couples who are planning, thinking of planning or just looking to come along to view our top class venue boasting a magnificent Function Room and Gardens with views of the river that would enhance any couples memories.

We will have all our local Wedding experts present to advice and discuss their prices & packages. With many years of Wedding experience, their good advice and guidance will help you decide what you require and what best suits your Special Day. We are trilled to have this opportunity to showcase Lawless Hotel to you. This our first Wedding Fair in 10 years and we are endeavoring to make it a huge success. We are also fully licensed for Civil Ceremonies and would be delighted to have the opportunity to discuss our Wedding Packages which can be tailored to suit all your needs.

Our unique riverside setting is ideal for photographs in our won-

derfully manicured gardens – a priceless keepsake for your Wedding Album. We are very competitively priced and all your dietary requirements can be catered for. We will also cater for parties the day after the Wedding should you wish to entertain and make it a weekend celebration. From BBQ’s to Pig on the Spit – all is accommodated.

Lawless Hotel has a long tradition for excellent food and with many year of Wedding Expertise in the past, we are now ready to help you make your Special Day all you dreamed of. You can relax and be assured that everything possible will be done to achieve the most memorable and enjoyable day for you both. Our Chefs and their team will ensure that you and your guests will enjoy a magnificent feast, our mouth watering menus will be sure to satisfy all your guests.

We would like in advance to acknowledge all our Wedding Experts who will showcase to you all that is available from the traditional to the extravagant for all couples planning to tie the knot in the next few years.

At Lawless Hotel our aim is to ensure that your day is everything that you wished for. Our staff will be on hand to discuss any queries you may have. We look forward to welcoming you on Sunday November 29th.

For further information please contact 0402-36146 or email: reservations@lawlesshotel.ie

BOOK NOW

Trains will depart from Santa's Station on the hour from 2pm to 7pm

santatrainexperience.ie

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Unit 8, Radio Centre , Killarney Road, Bray

School’s fight with McDonald’s just got a lot bigger

By Michelle McGlynn

Temple Carrig secondary school is taking the fight against McDonald’s to the High Court.

“The Board of Management has taken this step in light of its responsibilities under the Education Act to provide for the students of the school and on the basis of strong legal advice that the decision by An Bord Pleanala to grant permission for the proposed development was legally flawed,” Principal Alan Cox said in a statement.

Mr Justice Richard Humphries granted leave for judicial review of the September 30 decision

by An Bord Pleanala to grant permission for the Blacklion development - consisting of a McDonald’s restaurant, a commercial unit and a health and fitness centre.

The judicial review will place parties including An Bord Pleanala, Wicklow County Council, McDonalds and possibly Lidl on notice.

The estimated bill for a judicial

review ranges anywhere from €40,000 to €400,000.

The next few months will largely be taken up with administrative requirements with a hearing unlikely until the latter months of 2016.

However, according to a legal expert who didn’t wish to be named but spoke with the Wicklow Voice, McDonald’s have an option to apply to have the case heard by the Commercial Court which would speed up proceedings.

If McDonald’s were to choose this route, something they have done in the past, a hearing could be held by April or May 2016.

The case will need to decide whether the decision to grant planning followed a process in accordance with the law.

A school is the best plantiff to have taken on the judicial review, the Wicklow Voice has learned.

Continued on next page

Sharon Monaghan from Shadore in Greystones getting ready for Ladies Night Out next week. Don’t miss our fantastic four page pull-out: Pages 11-14. » Lots more pictures from around the county inside

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Fri 27th Nov ‘Mind Your Man’ Fashion Show 11am-12pm in aid of Movember.

Ladies & Menswear Fashion Show, Great Raffle & Black Friday Special Offers, all an aid of Mens Health Charities.

Thurs 3rd Dec Fishers Christmas 5pm-9pm Customer Evening Late Night Shopping with Mulled Wine & Nibbles, Special Offers and a Fabulous Fashion Show!

04| NEWS

wicklowvoice.ie November 26 2015

Nancy survives to win Emmy in New York

news in brief St David’s The Christmas Craft Fair in St David’s NS, Greystones will take place on December 4 and 5 with over 80 stalls filled with wonderful items.

Fun for all the family it is open from 11am to 5pm and admission is €3 or €5 for two, children go free.

Pop-up shop Colaiste Chraobh Abhann, Kilcoole Transition year students are holding a pop-up shop showcasing their mini company projects open until November 28.

Located on Kilcoole Main Street, the shop is open Monday to Saturday from 10am-5pm selling a range of innovative products that would make ideal gifts.

Coral Leisure A clean-up and temporary emergency repairs have been carried out at Coral Leisure, Wicklow Town following damage caused by Storm Barney recently.

A structural inspection will be carried out and in the meantime, the facility will remain closed to the public until further notice.

Baz and Nancy at the International Emmys in New York this week

By Michelle McGlynn Ireland’s - and Wicklow’s - favourite mammy has taken the US by storm and has the Emmy award to prove it.

Stars of smash hit TV show 50 Ways to Kill Your Mammy, Nancy and Baz Ashmawy have won an International Emmy for Best Non-scripted Entertainment.

The Aughrim native and her son have just wrapped the

fourth series of the Sky One show that sees Baz challenge his mammy to various deathdefying tasks.

The hilarious duo travelled to the gala ceremony in the New York Hilton and were delighted to take home one of the 12 prestigeous awards presented on the night.

“I wasn’t making it for awards or to sell or any of that stuff , but its an amazing nod,” said Baz following the win.

“In the states there was a lot of backlash in the beginning because I don’t think they have the same understanding of sarcasm or irony that we have, they thought I was actually trying to kill my mother,” the 40-year-old presenter joked to RTE. 50 Ways follows in the footsteps of previous Irish International Emmy successes such as Moone Boy who won in 2013 for Best Comedy.

news in brief Book sale The December first Saturday book sale in support of Shankill Old Folks Association and Meals on Wheels will take place on December 5 from 10am to 1pm.

It will take place in the Shankill Old Folks Centre and donations of books, other than school/text books, accepted on the day.

Historical journal The 2015 volume of the Greystones Archaeological and Historical Society Journal is available from Leo Ireton’s shop, Killincarrig Road or greystonesahs.org for €8.

This issue contains a wideranging collection of articles covering the impact locally of World War 1, historic buildings of Greystones and more.

Lakers fair Lakers Christmas fair will be held at Killruddery House and Gardens on November 29 from 11am-4pm.

Entry is €5 per car which includes entry to a Christmas Raffle. All funds raised will go towards the running of Lakers Special Needs Club.

Expert warns of coast washing into sea

By Jake Maxwell

Large parts of Wicklow could be swept into the sea if climate change goes unchecked, a leading Irish professor has warned.

Prof John Sweeney, a worldrenowned expert on climatology based at NUI Maynooth, said important economic sectors could be seriously affected by temperature rises.

If climate change continues as it is, summers here will be hotter and drier, winters will be warmer and wetter and there will be a risk of more frequent widespread flooding.

“Wicklow is particularly at risk. Around 20pc of the coast could erode, with sea-level rise already having a significant impact on the soft boulder clay coasts in Greystones and south of Arklow near the Wexford coast,” Prof Sweney told the Wicklow Voice.

“The authorities need to the defend the coast in high density and valueable land areas such as Bray, Greystones, Wicklow Town and Arklow as sea levels could rise by up to a metre with storm surges.

“However, it will be too costly to defend agricultural land and leisure areas such as golf courses, a lot of which could be lost.”

Prof Sweeney was speaking ahead of the UN conference on climate change which runs in Paris from November

30-December 11. Prof Sweeney warned: “It is clear that the window of opportunity is closing rapidly and unless radical emission cuts in greenhouse gas emissions are achieved within the next decade or two, a tipping point may be reached in global climate which may be irreversible.

“The legacy this generation will pass on to the next would then be that of a severely damaged planet.”

Over the past 30 years, Prof Sweeney has published around 60 scientific papers and edited or co-authored four texts on various aspects of climatology and climate change in Ireland.

“Let’s consider geographic and demographic factors: Ireland has 4,577km of coast, and more than half the population lives within 15km of the sea.

He said it was time to put politics aside and to consider the very future of our country and planet.

Prof Sweeney added: “The forthcoming Paris conference represents a historic opportunity for the global community to change course and avoid the worst excesses of climate change impacts forecast by climate scientists. Narrow national priorities, often determined by powerful sectoral interest groups, have bedevilled attempts to place the global common good first until now.”

Storm Barney: Page 9

McDonald’s court fight Continued from previous page

“The three schools are the point of contention in this case so it makes sense that they are the ones to challenge the decision. In addition, they are an impartial, independent body whose one and only concern is the welfare of the students.”

The Wicklow Voice was told that the likelihood of success for Temple Carrig is

difficult to judge as there are deficiencies in linking planning and government policy and it will depend on how the judge interprets the legislation.

However, even if the judicial review returns a favourable decision for Temple Carrig, this will not prevent McDonald’s or another fast food restaurant from reapplying for permission.

Knife the Mac: P8

NEWS |05

November 26 2015 wicklowvoice.ie

wicklow people in pictures

Cathal Brennan, Margaret Byrne , Stephen Tully, Conor O’Leary and Leon O’Neill in the offices of Kidd Insurance who presented a cheque for €2,910 to Purple House from their Home Insurance fundraiser

Round Ireland Yacht Race Organiser Theo Phelan with Hal Fitzgerald, Commodore of Wicklow Sailing Club and Adrian Yeates, Managing Director of Volvo Car Ireland, who wil sponsor the race which starts on June 18. Pic: David Branigan

Betty and Jim Connor out and about in Greystones. Pic: Oisin McFarland Smith

Kelly O’Neill, Evan Lambert, Hannah Lambert, Sorcha O’Neil and Tara O’Neil in Hopkins Toymaster during the turning on of the Christmas lights in Wicklow Town. Pic: Ceaneacht O Hoctun

President Michael D Higgins and his wife Sabina received the families of the victims of the Carrickmines Tragedy. Pictured are Michael (7) and Thomas Connors(4) who lost their families in the tradegy. Pic: Maxwells

Lilimari Heaney who was one of the many little visitors to see Santa at Arklow Lifeboat Station at the weekend Pic: Yvette O Beirne

Sarah Quinn, Education Coordinator with Park Academy Childcare presents a cheque from the fundraiser ‘The Kube’ for €26,067.68 to Monica Rowe, representative for Childline Ireland

06| NEWS

wicklowvoice.ie November 26 2015

EPA claims raw sewage pumped into Avoca river

news in brief Nativity paintings There will be a talk on Nativity Paintings held in Luisne, Kilcoole on November 26 at 8pm, admission €10.

The talk, facilitated by Siobhan Campbell, will look at what the teachings behind the paintings are.

By Michelle McGlynn

Christmas fair Signal Arts Centre, Bray will be running their Christmas fair from December 7 until December 24, allowing you plenty of time to stock up on festive goods.

There will be something for everyone. It will be open seven days 10am until 5pm.

Yvonne Roe, owner of Coolakay House B&B, with Daniel and Majella O’Donnell during the filming of UTV Ireland series, Daniel and Majella’s B&B Road Trip

Puss in Boots

Wee Daniel showcases Enniskerry

Bray Musical Society’s panto Puss in Boots opens this week in St Patrick’s school, if you haven’t booked your tickets yet do so now by calling 086 2663250. Shows are on November 27 at 7.30pm, November 28 at 2.30pm and 7.30pm and November 29 at 2.30pm.

Bray Musical Society is sponsored by Bray Credit Union, Anne Ferris TD, Bray Labour and La Belle, Brah Gifts and Accessories

It was tractors at dawn for Daniel and Majella O’Donnell when they visited Enniskerry recently.

The couple were staying at Coolakay House, owned

by Yvonne and Robert Roe, as part of the UTV Ireland series, Daniel and Majella’s B&B Road Trip.

The episode aired on Monday night and saw the duo drive across the Sally Gap to a warm welcome from

By Michelle McGlynn

the Roes. The B&B is based on a working farm and is home to Yvonne and Robert’s adored Connemara ponies.

Daniel and Majella were treated to a tour of the estate’s museum which illustrates the evolution of Irish farming life from the 18th century up until the present day and includes machinery used by Robert’s own grandparents.

It wasn’t all tours and relaxation for the O’Donnells during their Enniskerry stay

as the mischievous B&B owners pitted husband against wife in a vintage tractor run on the farm.

“We had a great time here in your beautiful home.

Thank you for making us feel so at home,” the O’Donnells wrote in the Coolakay online guest book.

The episode will put a spotlight on the town as a tourist destination as the UTV Ireland series has raked in over half a million viewers in its opening weeks.

Untreated sewage is being discharged into rivers, loughs and the sea in Wicklow, a new report has revealed.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has released the Urban Waste Water Treatment Report 2014 which shows that towns in Wicklow are failing to meet European Union standards.

Arklow and Avoca are identified as pumping raw sewage into the sea.

Last May, Irish Water and Wicklow County Council announced the new Arklow Wastewater Treatment Plant would be built at the Old Wallboard site on the North Key. At present, untreated wastewater from homes and businesses in Arklow is discharged into the Avoca River that runs directly through Arklow Town.

The EPA report states that discharging dirty water is directly responsible for poor quality at seven popular swimming spots around the

country. The amount of raw sewage and waste water being pumped out nationally is equivalent to 200,000 people each using 140 litres of water a day.

The EPA are calling on Irish Water to invest in its waste water infrastructure while Irish Water claim that it has done so by investing €320 million in both 2014 and 2015.

The company has plans to invest a further €2 billion in waste water infrastructure over the next six years. According to EU rules, Ireland should have had secondary treatment of sewage in place for areas with populations exceeding 15,000 by the year 2000.

“Unfortunately we are dealing here with a legacy of underinvestment over decades and that poses a significant challenge for Irish Water. It is long overdue,” said Noel Byrne, senior inspector with the EPA. The 2014 report noted improvements in waste water treatment as 82% of large urban areas meet the mandatory EU quality standards.

Time to deck the halls as Santa revs up his sleigh

By Michelle McGlynn

It’s time to deck the halls and jingle those bells because Christmas has arrived in the Garden County.

Towns across the county are lighting up for the festive season with Greystones and Wicklow Town turning on their lights last weekend.

Enniskerry will be the kicking off this week’s festivities in the Schoolhouse for Art from 6.30pm on Friday and will continue throughout the weekend.

Saturday begins with an art competition in the Schoolhouse at noon which will be followed by crafts and demonstrations which will run all weekend.

Grab some delicious food from the street BBQ that will be cooking up a storm all weekend long.

Then for the big day on Sunday, events will get under-

way at noon once again.

You can enjoy all the fun of the day before but with the added bonus of the Christmas craft kaboodle from 2pm.

Then comes the highlight of the weekend’s festivities, a visit from the man himself - Santa Claus.

Santa will be on hand for the lighting of the tree as they community gathers to celebrate the beginning of the festive season together.

There are some very excited children in Bray as they eagerly wait to see which of them will be the lucky child to switch on Bray’s lights on November 28.

The entertainment will kick off at Bray Civic Plaza at 4.30pm and will be hosted by East Coast FM’s Declan Meehan.

Get into the spirit with the angelic harmonies of Bray Community Choir, St Cronan’s Boys Choir and Bray Musical

Society.

The lights will begin twinkling at 5.15pm and will be followed by the fireworks display and some Christmas tunes by Bray’s Christmas DJ. The Arklow Christmas Festival will be launched on December 28 from 4pm with the switching on of the Arklow Christmas tree on Main Street beside the bandstand.

The winner of the Junior Art competition, held through all the junior schools in the area during November, will be the lucky one to push that button and light up the town.

A gathering of choirs and vocal groups will add to the magical atmosphere and it is hoped that 1,000 voices will join together to herald in the most wonderful time of the year as fireworks illuminate the sky.

Let’s all get rockin’ around that Christmas tree this weekend.

November 26 2015 wicklowvoice.ie

ADVERTISING|07

08 | OPINION

opinion&comment

Devastation of SADS can never be forgotten

I

have worked with Michael Greene, Chairman of Cry since the late 80s.

I was his PA in HomeBond. I was working with Michael when his son Peter died suddenly in 1996 and saw the heartbreak and devastation it caused. When Michael and Marie started up CRY I did the paperwork and admin to help. CRY helps support families throughout Ireland who have lost a young person to SADS. We do this by supporting the free screening centre in Tallaght Hospital as well as providing a free counselling service.

It became personal to me on May 22 2002 when my niece Jenny O’Riordan died suddenly.

Jenny (Jenny Jewel to the family) was my sister Kate and her husband Jerry’s only daughter.

Jenny had spent one summer in HomeBond – she called it her ‘summer job’ in her gap year.

Michael got to know Jenny well and he supported her after she returned to college and completed her Masters.

She went on to work with KPMG and spent two years there as a Consultant and loved every minute of it making great friends.

She particularly loved the location and couldn’t have been any happier there – unless they could have moved closer to Grafton Street for the endless shopping.

Brown Thomas must have had a drop in cosmetic sales that summer!

Jenny died suddenly Cardiomyopathy on her father’s 50th birthday.

I will never forget the call – I was just in the door from a holiday and Kate called to say Jenny had been taken to Blanchardstown Hospital.

I collected Kate and we drove to the hospital but I think I knew at the time that she would be dead when we arrived, she was.

Jenny had died while sitting with her best friend Sinead O’Brien– looking at booking flights for a holiday.

Jenny’s sudden death devastated all of our lives but especially Kate, Jerry and her brother JJ. She was 26, beautiful, bright, kind and had so much to live for.

Her friends and colleagues were heartbroken too. Time helps you to live with it but you never forget.

Nothing is ever the same and no family event or occasion happens without you knowing someone is missing.

Kate now works as a Volunteer with the charity and will support families affected as she has been.

After Jen’s death Deirdre Hanley of BearingPoint visited Kate at home to sympathise and told her they wanted to do something positive to remember

Jen – after that visit we discussed it and Michael met with Deirdre Hanley and CRY’s website was born – Bearing Point still generously host our website and the family take great comfort from that.

I am now the Fundraising Manager of CRY dealing with all of the fundraising aspects of the charity.

This involves dealing with many families who have lost someone. I understand a little where they are coming from – every story is different and every time I take a call from a bereaved family I can relate to what they are saying.

My own three boys are patients in the Centre so I understand the concerns of a parent who needs to come to the Centre for screening and the peace of mind that comes with that visit.

Dealing with a bereaved family does not get any easier with time but I hope we are helping families to get some peace of mind and to come to terms with their loss.

Most importantly because of the free screening service in the CRYP Centre at Tallaght Hospital, we are helping to prevent other young people with heart conditions from dying suddenly.

Lucia Ebbs, is the Fundraising manager at CRY Ireland, the Irish registered charity that supports those affected by Sudden Adult Death Syndrome (SADS).

She is based in the CRYP Centre in Tallaght Hospital and is involved with all fundraising activities and events for the charity. For more information please see www.cry.ie

Nothing is ever the same and no family event or occasion happens without you knowing someone is missing.

“I

Citizens have repeatedly been forced to resort to costly planning appeals and court actions.

Absurd!

Tweets of the week

lieutenant dan @verdygood “In line at boojum Me: can i get a burrito girl next to me: it was mycat’s birthday yesterday! me: ...to go” ray reluctantly @sireviscerate “dog: i think that job interview went well! *looks in mirror and sees ear was inside-out the whole time* son of a...” andrew wheeler @wheeler “some of you really need to work on your selfawareness. i’m not naming names; you know who you... damn it”

aisling bea @weemissbea “I’ve just paid £22 to come into an airport lounge for a nap. pound for pound it’s the most expensive thing I’ve ever bought.”

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 Lucia Ebbs with Basil Miller

Let’s knife the Mac and send burgers packing

t’s very welcome news that Temple Carrig School has challenged, in the High Court, An Bord Pleanala’s grant of permission to McDonald’s to build an outlet 30 metres from the boundary of the education campus at Blacklion.

But the Board of Management of the school should never have been put in this position.

Nor should the hundreds of local campaigners have been forced to consider such a potentially costly move.

It is national policy to promote healthy eating habits in children while at school and in the home. It is national policy to combat the obesity epidemic which threatens a lifetime of chronic diseases for an entire generation. And it is national policy to promote healthy eating through the planning process, as expressed in the National Planning Guidelines issued in June 2013.

These state that “planning has an important role to play in promoting and facilitating active and healthy living patterns for local communities”, and specify that the planning process should be used to reduce “exposure of children to the promotion of foods that are high in fat, salt or sugar … (and give) careful consideration to the appropriateness and or location of fast food outlets in the vicinity of schools and parks”.

So how could Wicklow County Council and Bord Pleanala allow a giant junkfood outlet to be sited beside three schools with a capacity of almost 2,000 students?

Because, said Bord Pleanala, that guideline had not been incorporated into our Local Area Plan.

In April 2014 the then Minister for Children, Frances Fitzgerald, was quoted congratulating local planners and Bord Pleanala for being ‘proactive’ in protecting children and schools from fast food outlets.

I really don’t know which of her advisers or civil servants put that speech into her hands, but they were totally wrong.

On the two occasions when McDonald’s Greystones application came before it, Bord Pleanala specifically excluded the issue of proximity to schools.

It did the same in respect of a very similar application by KFC in Navan, beside two schools — “if it’s not in the Area Plan, we won’t consider it”.

How can we have very clearly stated national policies, but the relevant planning authorities can simply ignore them and thumb their noses at the Government?

For two years, those behind the campaign to stop McDonald’s or any junkfood outlet targeting a school campus

have had a crash course in the topsyturvy Alice in Wonderland of Irish planning, where they have been twice forced to appeal WCC decisions which were clearly contrary to national policy.

And now it has come to this: a secondary school has had to take the daunting decision to go to the High Court in order to have national policy and national guidelines adhered to by Bord Pleanala, when that body should have been applying national policy in the first place.

It should never have come to this. Four years ago, the government promised legislation or regulation to ensure this kind of thing could not happen — still no sign of it. Instead, citizens have repeatedly been forced to resort to costly planning appeals and court actions. Absurd!

Environment Minister Alan Kelly could cut this Gordian knot with a stroke of his pen. Under Section 29 of the Planning Act, he has power to direct all planning authorities (including Bord Pleanala) to observe the provisions of the National Guidelines.

So he or his predecessor could have saved this community, and others, from the heartache and labour of going through the same round of object and appeal, over and over, and simply order councils and Bord Pleanala to apply the Guidelines.

But judicial review may not prevent McDonald’s from going ahead. The school may lose. Or if it wins, and this application is refused by An Bord, McDonald’s can re-apply.

Which is why the amendment to the new County Development Plan proposed by Greystones councillors must be strongly supported by the community across Wicklow. This, if passed, will exclude all new fast food outlets from 400 metre ‘No Fry Zones’ around schools, parks and playgrounds.

If it is passed next year by a majority of councillors, that’s it. No further applications by McDonald’s, KFC, Burger King, or anyone else can target our children — at least not while at school, play, or sport.

So I appeal to everyone in Wicklow — email your local councillors and demand that they vote for this part of the County Development Plan.

Basil Miller has been one of the leaders of the campaign against locating a McDonald’s beside the three Blacklion schools from the start. He is a writer and journalist.

OPINION| 09

November 26 2015 wicklowvoice.ie

anyotherbusiness

Have you got a story?

Then email info@wicklowvoice.ie

focus on faces Dennis McGettigan, CEO of the McGettigan Group How is life?

Life is great thanks, busy but it’s an extremely exciting time for the company right now. I’m doing a lot of travelling, scouting for new venues and checking in on existing ones so it’s very full on and can be tiring but I’m not complaining, it’s a very welcome load to bear!

Arklow has a new visitor - this Mandarin Duck has made a home at the Riverwalk. Native to Asia, in recent years it has begun to appear in Ireland having escaped from collections in Britain. Pic: Yvette O Beirne

Barney shows effects of climate change

S

torm Barney certainly left its mark on the country, and Wicklow didn’t escape unscathed. Part of the roof was ripped off the Coral Leisure Centre in Wicklow Town, and there was significant damage caused to Rathnew GAA Club’s main building, where a portion of roof was taken off in the winds. Elsewhere in the county there were isolated floods and other examples of damage.

Even at that we got off lightly in comparison to other coastal counties.

Some experts think there is a clear link between climate change (more specifically, global warming) and coastal erosion and rising sea levels in this country. When you combine this with seasonal extremes of weather like Storm Barney, the potential for damage is magnified. We should listen to the experts and take heed of their advice.

Professor John Sweeney of NUI Maynooth’s Geography Department is one such expert in this field. He advises that our civil and structural engineers focus their efforts on protecting populated areas with heavy infrastructure, such as Dublin and Cork, and low-lying industrial and residential areas in other

Brian Quigley counties such as Wicklow. This is because these areas are the most vulnerable to floodwaters caused by global warming (Ireland has more than 4,500 kilometres of coastline, and more than half of our population live within 15 kilometres of the sea).

Prof Sweeney believes as much as 20% of our coast is at risk of erosion as sea levels rise. The soft-boulder clay that forms a lot of our east coast is particularly vulnerable to erosion and this puts thousands of homes and businesses in parts of Wicklow, Dublin, Wexford, Louth and Down at risk.

Climate change is resulting in the melting of the polar ice caps, and this is swelling the oceans with more water which is where the rising sea levels emanate. It results in warmer summers but also warmer, wetter winters. Greenhouse gas emissions, mainly from burning fossil fuels, are the biggest contributor to the problem, which

has seen our planet’s ozone layer attacked and thus allowed the sun to warm up the planet excessively.

It would certainly help everyone if global warming could be slowed down. That needs the combined weight of the richest and most industrialised countries behind it in order to become reality, and to this end the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change will be taking place in Paris between November 30 and December 11.

There are high hopes that something significant will be achieved at the UN climate change summit this year. A new study by the International Energy Agency (IEA) shows that emissions of greenhouse gases finally ‘’stalled’’ in 2014, at a time when global economic growth continued apace. Two main factors contributed to this; firstly the rise of wind and solar power to the point where they are now comparable energy sources to fossil fuels, and secondly greater energy efficiency (this means you and me, cycling to work and insulating our homes). The IEA data, if replicated in 2015 and beyond (this is expected to be the case), shows we have passed a critical watershed in the fight against climate change.

The UN summit is likely to see some achievable targets agreed

and some optimistic scenarios for the future presented. The favourable situation with regard to renewable energies and the buy-in from the world’s population with regard to conservation means the fight against global warming is turning and there is every reason to have hope.

There is a lot of imaginative research going on in the scientific world connected to the area of global warming. Everything from the small like seaweed farms (seaweed grows at such a fast rate that it pulls a huge amount of CO2 out of the air) to the more fantasic-sounding like mirrors in space (to redirect some of the sun’s rays and protect what is left of the ozone layer). The best way to gobble up all the CO2 emitted would be to plant more trees, but an area of forest equivalent to the size of Australia would be needed over the next generation, and this is obviously not going to happen.

Hence the need for alternatives, many of which are within reach of being workable.

We can all do our part. Continue to conserve energy. Hassle our politicians into committing the funds needed to strengthen coastal areas like Wicklow, as Prof Sweeney advises.

And trust that world leaders have finally woken up to the importance of the issue after years of paying lip service to it.

There’s been a lot of excitement at McGettigan’s. Tell us a bit about what’s been going on?

The company is on the cusp of massive expansion and 2016 is set to be our busiest year yet with plans underway for 14 more McGettigan’s bars to open across the UK, US and the Middle East over the next 12-18 months. We recently celebrated our 5th birthday at McGettigan’s JLT in Dubai and the customer response and turnout was really fantastic. McGettigan’s JLT is where it all started for us with McGettigan’s bars so it was a pretty significant milestone for myself and the team. It has been an amazing five years and I have to say I’m very pleased with how far we’ve come during this relatively short period of time.

Why is Bray such an important place for McGettigan’s?

Bray has always been an important place to my family and is where my father opened his second hotel, (The Royal Hotel on Bray’s Main Street) in 1981. The hotel is still run by my sister Maureen so it felt like a very fitting location to open our 11th bar. A substantial investment is going into the refurbishment and renovation of the venue and I don’t think people will be disappointed by the final result. Opening a McGettigan’s at The Royal is the first step in our plans to upgrade the hotel to four-star status over the course of 2016, and we are confident that they will compliment each other very well. We intend to offer a new, high quality dining and nightlife experience to the visitors and locals of Bray and the wider Co Wicklow area and with their support we hope bring some life back into that part of the town. All in all we are very excited to be opening another McGettigan’s back home in Ireland, it’s a really great way to see out the year.

What do you believe is the key to business success?

I’ll be sure to let you know if we find out! In all seriousness, it has to be loving what you do. Without a real passion and enjoyment for business you are in I don’t believe you can be truly successful. You need to be ready to live and breathe it as it’s going to take up all of your time.

How do you relax?

While I do a lot of travelling, I am very fortunate to live in a place with almost constant sunshine. I enjoy spending time outside by the beach or pool with my family that is always a surefire stress reliever!

What’s your favourite thing about Christmas?

In recent years it has been going back home to Ireland and spending time with friends and family and just taking the opportunity to really relax and unwind away from the hustle and bustle of Dubai and business pressures.

Future plans?

Ultimately our target is to have 70 McGettigan’s open worldwide within the next seven years. Our key expansion areas at the moment are the Middle East, UK and the US but we are always open to opportunities and if the location works, we will look at it. To become a world recognized brand was a dream for me but each year it’s becoming a more achievable goal and something I will keep striving towards.

10 | lifestyle

wicklowvoice.ie November 26 2015

my favourite things

Smashing

Smock Shopping for good quality, essential items to stay warm, dry and stylish during the colder months has never been easier! At long last, those go-to items are available on your doorstep in Enniskerry, Co. Wicklow.

Whether it be a chic and timeless Winter coat, your trusty water-proof welly boots or a dazzling piece of sparkle for someone special, Smock Boutique will fast become your new favourite shopping destination!

Main pic: Boiled wool coat in dark tomato Sandwich €285 Right from top: Barbour style jacket €180; Hao wrap dress, Inwear, €169.95; Honeycombe multi-print dress, Brakeburn, €75; Henni lace top, Inwear,

€119.95 Black high boot, Brakeburn, €185 and Clouds/Birds printed welly, Brakeburn, €75 Brand new store Smock Boutique is owned and run by personal stylist Mairead Vickers. With a background in image consultancy and fashion styling, Mairead has over 5 years of experience advising, styling and shopping for personal clients in the Wicklow area.

For personal styling enquiries and to sign up to the Smock Boutique mailing list, head to www.maireadvickers.com Smock Boutique, Main Street, Enniskerry, 01 286189, info@smockboutique.com

WHAT’s HOT

with Michelle McGlynn info@wicklowvoice.ie

ladies’ night out GREYSTONES | 11

November 26 2015 wicklowvoice.ie

your pullout guide to everyone’s favourite shopping extravaganza in greystones!

It’s back ladies!

Ladies Night Out Greystones is back with a bang this year with an action packed line-up offering the women of Wicklow a well-deserved night out where they can treat themselves to shopping, beauty and food and enjoy some fantastic one-night-only offers.

The evening is an event created by ladies, for ladies and it showcases all the best that Greystones has to offer.

On December 3 from 5pm until late, businesses around the town will open their doors exclusively to the ladies so that they can take advantage of unique special offers from discounts to a glass of bubbly.

Spend the day browsing through the gift shops, many fabulous boutiques and jewellery shops just to mention a few.

When you have shopped till you dropped, retire to one of the many restaurants to reflect on the day and try their Ladies Night Out menus.

Ladies Night Out Greystones have teamed up with the Wicklow Voice to offer you a night of treats and special offers - just read our super guide in the following pages to find out what’s going on and where!

Ashanti Gold 13 Meridian Point, Greystones, 01 2871789 Special offer: Reductions on the night of up to 30% off certain labels. Bubbly for sipping and gorgeous spot prizes for the taking. Plus all purchases on the night enter into a draw for a €150 voucher.

Ashanti Gold Boutique stocks all your favorite brands such as Oui, Sandwich, Gant Woman, Fuego, Diva Catwalk, Joseph Ribkoff and many more exquisite little gems you haven’t heard of from all over Europe.

Follow us on Facebook to keep up to date with new arrivals or check out our website www.ashantigold.ie.

wax it beside roches clinic, blacklion, greystones, 087 2929398 Special offer: 10% off any waxing booking for new clients, booking to be made on the night.

Wax It Greystones has a new woman at the helm and Maria McGrath cannot wait to welcome you all to the studio. Maria is excited to get to know her clients and to welcome some brand new clients to Wax It. There is a special offer for all new clients who book a waxing appointment on the night. When you need to book a wax, there’s no better place than Wax It. They work with Irish beauty brand, Waxperts, who are making a splash in the industry. Using the latest technology, it provides a virtually painfree wax - it’s the dream. With the talented and professional team at Wax It, you are guaranteed a fantastic experience at the studio. They are the only clinic in the county dedicated to specialised waxing only. With a new branch set to open in Bray, the only way is up for the Wax It studios.

12 | ladies’ night out GREYSTONES wicklowvoice.ie November 26 2015

Bochellis Church Road, Greystones, 01 2873625 Special offer: For the low price of €25 per person inclusive, you will receive a glass of Prosecco on arrival, a special Ladies Night Out four-course tasting menu with delicious, healthy options and live entertainment. No service charge applies.

Bochellis Greystones is the only place to go when you’re craving authentic Italian cuisine. With a lively atmosphere, your meal is guaranteed to be an enjoyable experience. With delicious pizzas, tempting pasta dishes and a selection of the chef’s special dishes, your only problem will be picking just one dish per course. There is a great selection to be found on the children’s menu so there is something to suit your little one. The staff at Bochellis are welcoming and attentive and will always go that extra mile to ensure that you are completely satisfied. Whatever the occasion or if you just feel like treating yourself or someone special, then you can’t go wrong with Bochellis - everyone’s favourite Italian restaurant. There will be live music on the night provided by Paul Sheehy doing acoustic covers of hits from Ed Sheeran and others. Visit their Facebook for menu.

Brooke & Shoals Church Road, Greystones, 01 2874199 Special offer: To celebrate Ladies Night Out, we are offering a 10% discount in-store and every customer customer will be entered into a draw to win a luxury hamper filled with Brooke & Shoals divine fragrances worth €200.

Brooke & Shoals on Church Road is the perfect destination if you are looking for something special. Whether looking for a lovely gift or indulging in a treat for yourself, our shop boasts a range of wonderful jewellery from designers including Absolute and Pilgrim, beautiful scarves, fabulous handbags and our famous collection of natural wax candles and home fragrance range. So call in to see us and our lovely ladies will help you find what you are looking for!

Classic FX Meridian Point, Greystones, 01 2871801 Special offer: 20% off all stock for Ladies Night Out Greystones only Classic FX is your one stop shop for shoes, handbags and accessories. A veritable haven for ladies who know that it’s how you accessorise an outfit that makes it. Classic FX is always on trend and is the perfect place to sort out your outfits for all those fabulous Christmas shindigs you’ll be attending.

They have shoes for all occasions, stocking some of your favourite brands. Ladies Night Out is the perfect night to treat yourself to something nice whether it’s a handbag or a whole new outfit. Go on, you deserve it.

Concepts Meridian Point, Greystones, 01 2878682

An unrivalled purifying and fragrancing power!

The Hungry Monk

Special offer: On the night we are delighted to offer the ladies of Greystones something very special. With a spend of €50 or more, receive a €10 voucher to spend in Concepts (valid until the 24th December). Lots more promotions to be found instore on the night. T&C’s apply.

CHRISTMAS 2015 010849

Concepts is the one stop shop in Greystones for unique gifts for all the special people in your life. From household brand names to our unusual and quirky niche gifts, Concepts is sure to have something to put a smile on everybody’s face this Christmas.

Louise, Anna and Rosemary look forward to welcoming some familiar faces as well as plenty of new ones for a glass of bubbly on the night- and don’t forget our complimentary gift wrapping service!

LIMITED EDITION

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November 26 2015 wicklowvoice.ie

Escape Boutique Mill Road, Greystones, 01 2871524 Special offer: Join us for a glass of bubbles while you shop our amazing selection of occasion wear dresses and coats at the specially reduced price of 20% for this one night only!

Meet your style…. Fashion is nothing without people! Join us for a glass of bubbles while you shop our amazing selection of occasion wear dresses and coats at the specially reduced price of 20% for this one night only! With a free draw for spot prizes it’s a night not to be missed! Looking forward to welcoming you in store on the night.

Eternity Jewellers Meridian Point, Greystones, 01 2557640 Special offer: 15% off all silver jewellery & 10% of all gold Jewellery for Ladies Night Out Greystones only. We will be serving canapes and a glass of bubbles too Eternity Jewellery is a leading manufacturer and retailers of bespoke jewellery in Ireland. At Eternity we are passionate about jewellery. We source and retail unusual fine gold and silver jewellery. If you are looking for something a little different, then Eternity is the place to browse. We are experts in custom made engagement rings, wedding bands and eternity rings. Our in-house workshop has been responsible for creating jewellery pieces that draw considerable admiration. Friendliness remains at the core of Eternity Jewellery, where we pride ourselves on our customer service and love to share our enthusiasm for exquisite jewellery.

Heatons Units 6 - 8 Meridian Point S.C. Greystones, 01 2874202 Special offer: 10% off everything in store (from 5-10pm December 3rd only) Heatons Greystones has an amazing offer of homewares, kids clothing and a Christmas Shop filled with everything from beautiful Christmas decorations to lights and Christmas wreaths, all at incredible prices that will give your home that festive feel this Christmas. If you’re also looking for quality fashion for all the family, visit the online store heatonsstores. com. With next day delivery and free click and collect to store, Christmas shopping couldn’t be easier. They look forward to seeing you over the festive season and please enjoy 10% off everything in store.

Kudos 11 Meridian Point Shopping Centre, Greystones, 01 2873061/2873062 Special offer: Free Christmas draw for all our clients - don’t miss out on a chance to win our luxurious hamper full of hair and beauty products Treat yourself to a gorgeous makeover or simply pamper yourself at Kudos salon. Give your hair a new lease of life with new product range, MariaNila which is 100% vegan and sulfate free. All stylists are highly qualified in colouring and styling. The salon stocks Redkin products that would make for a great Christmas present. While getting your hair done why not get your nails done at their nail bar too? With their new reception terminal ‘book online’, you can download their app to make your appointment. Call and make your appointment today and don’t forget to pick up their reward card. You can build up points to get free services - a great treat when you’re not expecting it. Christmas opening hours include late night Thursdays until 8pm just to make the festive season less stressful for you.

La Touche Wines La Touche Place, Greystones, 01 2873826 Special offer: P&P - Popcorn and Prosecco! For all the ladies, ok and a strawberry! Free on arrival. 10% off all goods purchased throughout the evening. 5pm-8.30pm.

Wine merchants “La Touche ” are situated by the bridge on La Touche Place, Greystones. Our Prices and special offers are excellent and great value for money and quality. Our premises holds a wine shop and a wine bar. We offer wine courses and tastings as well as wine dinners. You can purchase corporate gifts, hampers, gift boxes and gift vouchers. We offer party services for special occasions. Our party services (sale or return) also includes glasses and bar staff as required. Expert assistance is on hand when choosing wines for weddings and parties. Prizes for society/ corporate golf outings, choice of wines and presentation boxes available. A case discount applies. Shop local this Christmas!

14| ladies’ night out GREYSTONES wicklowvoice.ie November 26 2015 Mango Tree Meridian Point, Greystones, 01 2874488 Special offer: Chicken Green Curry €8, Beef Pad Thai €8 - *in-store orders only The Mango Tree stick to Thai traditions in preparation, ingredients and custom. Our dishes are family recipes, created by our director Nipaporn and her mother Jiep, whom now oversees all our kitchens to ensure that our standards and distinctive flavours are kept to the Mango Tree standard. Since 2010, we have grown to open in Rathfarnham, Lucan, Sandyford and Greystones. With further stores opening and our mobile catering vehicles hitting the roads, we continue to lead the Thai food revolution in Ireland. All our chefs are Thai and are as enthusiastic as we are to provide our customers with a truly Thai experience with every Mango Tree dish.

Shadore Meridian Point, Greystones, 01 2875999 Special offer: We will be giving 10% off on the evening with style tips and tricks to get you through this festive season We will be showcasing our party wear collection at the fashion show at 8pm and will have chocolates and bubbles throughout the evening. In addition we have teamed up with Forever Fabulous make-up artist Rachel who will be offering make-up tips and consultation while the Shadore girls style you. So look fabulous this Christmas and pop in to Shadore this Ladies Night Out.

Up to My Eyes 6 Theatre Lane, Greystones, 01 2872781 Special offer: Book Yumi Lashes - Free thread €50. Book Make-up - Free corner lashes €35. Book Xen Tan - Free F&P €30. Book Shellac - Free eyelash tint €30.

Book Opi Royal Pedi - Free corner lashes €60. Book full facial thread - Free F&P €30.

If you haven’t treated yourself to a trip to Up to my Eyes salon yet, then now is the time to do it. The salon is a must for top Irish beauties and fashionistas such as Rozanna Purcell, Georgia Salpa and Nadia Forde. They are specialists in the art of Embrowdery, a type of semi-permanent make-up as well as the extremely popular HD Brows. In fact, brow artist Elaine McParland was nominated for Best Brow Artist by Image magazine earlier this year. If you really want to enhance your eyes enquire about Eyelash Extensions or YUMI Lashes. Up to my Eyes also offer specialised waxing, nails and training in the art of Eyleash Extensions.

Vino’s 1 Church Road, Greystones, 01 2874807 Special offer: Special Ladies Night Out set menu and half price Prosecco Vinos Restaurant and Cafe, ideally located beside the dart in Greystones, has been serving great food with great passion for over eight years! The Café is open for breakfast from 7am daily, where you can savour the divine freshly baked cakes with a cup of Illy Coffee. This family-run, family-friendly restaurant and cafe is a great place to enjoy a quiet dinner or celebrate any occasion. Experience first-hand the dedication put into the dishes served, with an early bird set menu and mouthwatering fish specials prepared each day! Choose between casual or formal dining, sit in, sit out or take away. Plenty of the dishes are suitable for Coeliac and Vegetarian diets.

Zero One Unit 5, Watson and Johnson Centre, Church Road, Greystones, 01 2870002, zeroonesalon.ie Special offer: €15 blow drys. Purchase a voucher worth €60 for just €50. Free Prosecco. 10% off all products.

ZERO ONE is Greystones luxury hair salon and it has become a favourite with locals since opening its doors last December. They specialise in luxury hair extensions, Aveda colour, upstyles and braids. ZERO ONE salon has a new growing team of highly qualified staff that includes Suzie Pollock, Julie Taggart, Sharon Skerret and Louise McCauley all of whom are senior stylists. ZERO ONE staff receive extensive training from leading colourist Louise Oglesby who has over 25 years in the industry and has worked as a leading colourist educator in two of Ireland’s leading hair salons. Leading hair extension expert Edel Kavangh and L’Oreal colour award finalist Zoe Kelly are still part of the original ZERO ONE team.

The Hungry Monk

lifestyle | 15

November 26 2015 wicklowvoice.ie

Peter Byrne

food in wicklow

Head Chef at Sika Restaurant in The Powerscourt Hotel

INGREDIENTS 1 head Celery, leaves intact, coarsely chopped 1 Onion, sliced finely 2 peeled shallots, sliced finely 2 cloves garlic, crushed 2 Tablespoons Celery Seed 1 med. ROOSTER Potato, sliced finely 100 grams Butter Salt and Pepper

Celery and buttermilk soup Method: Place onion, shallots, garlic, potato, butter, and water in a pot. Bring to a simmer and stir occasionally until potatoes are soft.

Add celery and celery seed to pot. Add

enough water to just cover vegetables.

Bring to a boil, stirring so nothing sticks.

When celery is soft but still slightly crunchy, puree as quickly as possible with

a blender.

Moving quickly will ensure a bright green colour and fresh celery flavour.

Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Gradually add buttermilk to taste, to give the soup a bit of acidity but not enough to overpower the celery flavour.

Serve with chopped chives and whole celery leaves.

16| SPECIAL REPORT

wicklowvoice.ie November 26 2015

Everest School of Music Unit 2, Raven Hall, Dargle Road, Bray, 01 2861933 Everest Music Centre have been part of Bray’s business community for almost 30 years and during this time they have been proud to offer the best prices and high standard customer service. Specialising in all musical instruments from guitars, amps, effects, keyboards, pianos, drums and violins, they offer a guaranteed after sales service. Their online store allows you the chance to buy from the comfort of your home with the option of collection or delivery for a flat rate charge of just ₏5. Everest Music Centre also have purpose built music rooms where they run their music school for both adults and children offering lessons in guitar, piano and drums.

AC Garage Unit 6, Industrial Yarns, Bray, 01 2040848 For all your car needs, drop in to AC Garage where they offer the highest quality work and wonderful customer service. Whether you just need an

Christmas oil service or something a little bit bigger, AC Garage will have you back on the road in no time.

From exhaust repair and electrical problems to suspensions and timing belts, AC Garage offer their services at extremely competitive prices for quality work.

Get your car in tip top shape today, book in with AC Garages and enjoy excellent and reliable service.

Fitzpatrick Motors Dublin Road, Bray, 01 2041030 The team at Fitzpatrick Motors are always on hand to give you the help and advice that you need. If you are looking for a new or used vehicle they can introduce you to the extensive range of Ford cars or commercials, arrange a financial package to suit your individual needs and give you the reassurance of their full after sales service. If you already own a Ford vehicle then Fitzpatrick Motors can offer you first class servicing and repairs by their team of Ford trained technicians.

Whatever your motoring needs, Fitzpatrick Motors are there for you. Call in today.

Courtney Food Service Castle Street, Bray, 01 2829822 At Courtney Food Service you will find a large range of fresh and frozen products all packed in Approved and HACCP compliant factory

SPECIAL REPORT|17

November 26 2015 wicklowvoice.ie

over the Fran O’Toole Bridge of the above and make our own burgers which are also tested by Foodtech Laboratories. They supply pubs, restaurants, hotels, nursing homes and schools around the Dublin area. This enables them to buy by the pallet, making savings and passing them on to their valued shop customers.

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.

Craft Framing Gallery

Cycleplus Unit 16 Meridan Point Shopping Centre, Greystones, 01 2871504

eliminating the risk of contamination. Their fresh food products are all tested in Foodtech Laboratories on a regular basis.

They are licensed to cut beef, lamb, pork, bacon, poultry and game. Courtney Food Service are also licensed to mince any

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

An Garda Síochána

Crime Prevention

IF YOU LOVE IT, LOCK UP AND LIGHT UP.

Simple steps can help protect your home.

Whether you are at home or going out, remember to turn on some lights, use timer switches, lock all doors and windows, use an alarm, store keys away from windows and letter boxes, and don’t keep large amounts of cash or jewellery in your home.

Lock Up and Light Up as part of An Garda Síochána’s Operation Thor.

www.garda.ie

€

3 Dublin 2866728

Road,

Bray,

01

For all your professional framing needs, be sure to go to Craft Framing Gallery. Ian makes all of his own frames with great

care and dedication. The results are stunning and are guaranteed to stand the test of time.

Whether you are looking to frame a treasured photograph, a painting or even a jersey, Craft Framing Gallery can create a

frame to suit your style and needs. With many years experience, you will be provided with top quality service. For an extra special Christmas gift, why not get a beloved photograph professionally framed?

18 | SPECIAL REPORT wicklowvoice.ie November 26 2015

November 26 2015 wicklowvoice.ie

SPECIAL REPORT| 19

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20 | WHAT’S HOT WILDLIFE

with Justin Ivory

Starlings. Pic: John Fox

Mesmerising Murmurations Last week we introduced the natural phenomenon that is a murmuration – the huge winter pre-roost flocks of starlings and their balletic aerial displays.

This week we will look at the Why and How of murmurations.

Firstly why do starlings gather to roost in such large numbers?

Starlings are very social birds and having spent the day dispersed in smaller parties feeding up to 50 miles from the roost site, when they reunite in the evening they most likely are exchanging information about good feeding locations.

Roosting in large, densely packed groups helps generate heat and conserve energy – vital for survival through cold winter nights.

Roosting in large numbers also significantly reduces the chances of an individual falling victim to a predator.

How do such a large number of individuals move with such exquisite fluidity and perfect unison as to appear like a single, living entity?

Scientists having being studying murmurations for years and have recently discovered that the flock movement is the result of a series of short-range reactions – each individual bird is reacting to the birds nearest to it. Further studies have shown that one bird’s movement affects its seven closest neighbours and in turn each of these neighbours’ movements affect their closest seven neighbours and on through the flock.

Why seven? That is not fully clear yet but, given the speed with which a flock changes and moves; seven is probably the optimum number for the balance between an individuals’ response times and maintaining the cohesiveness of the group.

Why the constant, shapeshifting movements through the air?

Such a large group of birds is going to attract the attention of predators such as sparrowhawks and peregrine falcons. The movements we so enjoy are essentially evasive manoeuvres. The constant movement of such a large flock also makes it difficult for a raptor to pin-point a chosen target quarry to attack.

wicklowvoice.ie November 26 2015

night out of the week McGettigan’s Bray The Royal Hotel, Main Street, Bray, 01 2862935, royalhotel.ie McGettigan’s are set to open their doors in The Royal Hotel, Bray on December 4. This is a project very close to the family as they have been part of the Bray community for many years. Join them to celebrate and welcome them to the county with a drink and a meal. You are sure to have a great time when you go to McGettigan’s.

Unique décor, delicious Irish food & drink, the best Irish and international entertainment and sporting events are the ingredients that have made McGettigan’s such a success. McGettigan’s pride themselves on serving top class, award winning food. The menu includes classic dishes such as; Steak burger, Beer battered fish and chips, the Full Irish breakfast and signature McGettigan’s favourites such as the Buffalo hot wings.

Coffee morning of the week SADD Foundation coffee morning The Grand Hotel, Wicklow Town, December 11, 10am-12pm SADD (Sylvester Áaron Denis Delahunt) Foundation are holding a coffee morning to raise funds for Cuddle Cots and Féileacáin. Cuddle Cots are special cots for stillborn babies or infants who have died and Féileacáin provide maternity hospitals with memory boxes and support for bereaved parents. The cover charge for the event is €5 (children go free) and there will be raffle tickets on sale at the door. All of the money raised will go towards the two groups that provide essential services to bereaved families. There will be a kiddie corner and face painting to keep the younger children entertained and a surprise guest will even be dropping in at 10.30am - I’ll give you a hint, he’s making a list and checking it twice. The Foundation was set up by the Delahunts after their son Sylvester Áaron was born sleeping on December 11, 2012. The past two coffee mornings have raised €9,875, resulting in four Cuddle Cots being donated - one of which is being used in the local area.

book of the week Irelandopedia

By Fatti and John Burke Get ready to go on an exciting adventure around Ireland.Unleash your imagination and sense of adventure as you discover Ireland like you’ve never seen it before. Armchair travellers of any age will be totally absorbed by Fatti Burke’s detailed illustrations and her father John’s fabulous facts, which can be discovered on every page.

Spot the ghosts in Dunluce Castle. Can you find the vanishing lake?

Eat a blaa in Waterford and a yellowman in Antrim. Travel to the highest peak and the smallest harbour - even discover which county Elvis Presley’s ancestors were from. Go fact-hunting and collect knowledge, county by county, until you have an Irelandopedic knowledge yourself. This book would make a fantastic Christmas gift for anyone who loves quirky facts.

TV SHOW of the week The Late Late Toy Show RTE One, November 27, 9.30pm Christmas officially begins once the Late Late Toy Show is on. Get cosy in front of the fire and drink some hot chocolate - ok, wine - while you watch the magic unfold because no one does a toy show quite like us. Enjoy as the children willfully ignore what it is they were supposed to do and watch as Ryan tries to reign it all in while appearing to have the time of his life. And of course, there is always

Parenting idea of the week SPECS Bray launch Taylor Centre, Vevay Road, Bray, November 30, 1.30pm-3.30pm If you are a parent and would like to find out more about how Supporting Parents and Early Childhood Services (SPECS) can support you in your parenting role, please come along to the SPECS Bray launch. Dr Niall Muldoon, Ombudsman for Children, will be the keynote speaking on the day. SPECS Bray will officially be launched by Minsiter Simon Harris. SPECS is a new initiative in the greater Bray area that aims to work with parents, schools and other agencies to improve outcomes for children from pregnancy through to school age. The launch will be a wonderful opportunity to find out more about SPECS and ask any questions you may have. There will be tea/coffee and sandwiches provided and feel free to bring the kids along.

that one child. The one everybody will be talking about and whose YouTube clip will be shared all over Facebook on Saturday. We already love that kid. Feel that familiar jealousy of all those people who got tickets when you didn’t. It’s alright, there’s always next year. Of course, now we get to talk about how we didn’t have all these fancy, technological toys in our day. No sir, it was a ball and a string and you were pleased with it. We’re not kids anymore but when you watch the Toy Show you can recapture that feeling.

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November 26 2015 wicklowvoice.ie

MOVIE of the week The Good Dinosaur Gaiety cinema, Arklow Set in a world where dinosaurs never became extinct, Pixar’s delightful animation charts the friendship between a small boy and a giant apatosaurus. Sixty-five million years ago, a giant asteroid races towards Earth - but it misses. This simple twist of fate leads to dinosaurs peaceably toiling in the fields. A big-hearted 70-foottall apatosaurus named Arlo (Lucas Neff) then befriends a small human boy named Spot. While travelling through a harsh and mysterious landscape, Arlo learns the power of confronting his fears and discovers what he is truly capable of. The stellar cast includes Frances McDormand, Bill Hader, Judty Greer, Neil Patrick Harris and John Lithgow. Pixar movies are known for creating sharp, funny and emotive films that appeal to adults as much as they do to children and it looks like The Good Dinosaur is set to follow in this tradition.

HOROSCOPES

Fundraiser of the week Breadline Africa Fundraiser Various locations in Wicklow and South County Dublin A new soup cookbook has been launched by Breadline Africa Ireland.

Packed full of recipes for delicious soups, it’s the perfect thing to warm you up this winter. It also makes an ideal Christmas gift. All the proceeds of the book sales are going straight to Breadline Africa. The cookbook costs just €10. You can buy them in

La Creperie Pierre Grise in Greystones and Corner Note coffee shop in Dalkey. Breadline Africa provides infrastructure projects that benefit early childhood development (ECD – providing educational support to children between the ages of one and six years), and children and youth in literacy. Today, Breadline Africa is one of the biggest suppliers of converted shipping containers for poverty relief in South Africa and has delivered more than 285 containers to poverty-stricken communities across the country.

Wedding fair of the week Lawless Hotel Aughrim, Co Wicklow, 0402 36146, November 29, 2pm-5pm

Mary Coughlan The Mermaid Arts Centre, Main Street, Bray, December 4, 8pm Mary Coughlan is a renowned Irish jazz, blues and folk singer.

Her smoky, bluesy, boozy drawl has always been a seduction, no matter what the subject.

Throughout her career Mary has drawn heavily from legendary heroes, Billie Holiday, Peggy Lee, Van Morrison and Edith

Bray Beach Christmas Market returns to The Harbour Bar for an exciting weekend of festive fun this December. With everything from clothes to cakes, vinyl to skincare, and crystals to photography, there is sure to be something for everyone. As well as rambling around the boutique stalls you can also mosey into the laid-back lounge to enjoy a tasty tipple, complementing your Big Dog’s Galley gargantuan portion of gourmet goodness. All this and more, in the famous Harbour Bar with it’s Christmassy atmosphere, warm, toasty fires and quality live music thrown in for good measure. All welcome and admission is free. If you are interested in obtaining a stall, get in touch via Facebook at Bray Beach Flea Market.

Gemini- This week is an 8 If the financial situation seems unstable, make adaptations and compromises. Communication breakdowns could stall the action.

Cancer- This week is an 8 Handle practical priorities, and weigh pros and cons before making reservations. Will the trip generate business?

Someone’s demanding action.

Virgo- This week is a 7 Work with a partner to get farther. Learn how to make your system better.

Let go of a preconception.

Misunderstandings are likely.

GIG of the week

Bray Beach Christmas Market The Harbour Bar, Bray Seafront, December 12 and 13, 12pm-5pm

Taurus- This week is a 9 Accommodate someone’s demands. A new scheme occurs to you, but hold on to your money. First, get organised.

Leo- This week is a 6 What you’re learning contradicts what you thought.

Don’t get stopped by the past.

Guard your resources. Keep your agreements.

Lawless Hotel are calling on all couples who are planning, thinking of planning or just looking to come along to view our top class venue to join them at their first wedding fair in ten years. Boasting a magnificent function room and gardens with views of the river that would enhance any couples memories, the Lawless Hotel has everything you could want for your special day. Their local wedding experts will be present to advise and discuss their prices and packages. With many years of wedding experience, their good advice and guidance will help you decide what you require and what best suits your special day. For more information see lawlesshotel.ie or email reservations@lawlesshotel.ie

Christmas Market of the week

Aries- This week is a 5 Make time for private rituals.

You’re especially sensitive.

Allow for miracles. Beware misunderstandings.

Piaf. All are present in her delivery yet, Mary, with her naked honesty makes every song her own. Her first album since 2008, Scars on the Calendar features entirely new songs and compositions.

Mary and a full band will perform songs from the new album alongside classics. Tickets are €20/18 and there are packages deals available, see mermaidartscentre.ie for details.

Libra- This week is an 5 Fulfill promises you’ve made.

Profit from impeccable service.

The details are important. Use logic and new methods to make life easier Scorpio- This week is a 7 Practice your tricks and play around. Don’t forget a get together. Someone may be counting on you. Keep things simple.

Sagittarius- This week is a 6 Repurpose something you already have. Clean, sort and organise. Play with color and fabrics. Try mood lighting. Keep costs down.

Capricorn- This week is a 9 Check plans and directions.

Solutions come from far away.

In a conflict of interest, avoid antagonising your elders. Make it easy on yourself.

Aquarius- This week is a 9 Return communications quickly. Don’t spend yet. New information could change your choice. Misunderstandings could prove costly.

Pisces- This week is an 8 Assertiveness works well now.

Clean up your speech. Postpone financial discussion. Find ways to cut stress and tension. Ignore nastiness.

22 | SPORT sport in brief An Tochar A very busy and enjoyable annual presentation evening took place on November 22 in Áras an Tóchar.

Dublin star forward Kevin McManamon was on hand to assist with medal presentations and a Q&A with players, parents and coaches.

wicklowvoice.ie November 26 2015 Well done to organisers John Byrne, George Curley, Roisin Langrell, Shay Cullen, Chris Brady and all their many helpers.

Juvenile secretary John Byrne is finalising team managements for next season.

As always, each age group would welcome extra help, no matter how small.

Please email John at john8yrne@gmail.com, if you can lend a hand.

Bray Wanderers

Rachel and Jacob O’Toole (1) are all smiles in Bray

There was no jackpot winner on November 22. Numbers drawn were 3, 9, 25 and 26. €30 lucky dip winners were Breda Flanaghan c/o John Keating, Eileen Horan c/o Bray Lakers, Charles/Theresa c/o D. Crinion, Valerie Brack c/o Bray Lakers, Dave Brennan c/o BW lotto online.

Next week’s jackpot is €11,000. You can play the Bray Wanderers Lotto online at braywanderers.com.

The 2016 season will commence on March 4 and the mid season break will commence on June 6 to June 23 - both days inclusive.

The League will recommence on June 24 which is a rest day in the European championships.

Bray Wanderers U19s and U17s finished their seasons last Sunday away to Cobh Ramblers.

The U19s were defeatd 2-1 with Darragh No one scoring the Wanderers goal.

The U17s defeated Cobh 1-0 with a goal from Luke Clucas.

course the 24 teams of boys and girls who travelled from all over the county to participate in the table quiz.

Rathcoyle NS held out against some fierce competition from teams such as St Kevin’s NS Greystones, Talbotstown NS, Tynock NS and Kilcoole PS to claim victory. Just behind Rathcoyle were St Kevin’s in second and one point behind them again was Talbotstown NS claiming bronze.

We would like to thank all the teachers who helped out on the night and made the table quiz possible. Thanks also to Lynham’s Hotel for hosting us and our sponsor Allianz Insurance.

Allianz Cumann na mBunscol Cill Mhantáin have decided to launch the Young Whistlers programme.

Cumann na mBunscol

The Allianz Cumann na mBunscol Trath na gCeist took place on November 19 in Lynham’s Hotel in Laragh and was a fantastic success.

This was made possible by the support of the schools, the huge amount of parents who provided both lifts and support, and of

10 Visit Passes -

This course is a one day training programme which aims to teach children the skills needed to become a Gaelic football referee. Due to unforeseen circumstances, this was cancelled last week and it will now take place on November 26 at Bray Emmets from 3pm until 4.30pm.

The Cumann na mBunscol Cornmarket Annual Awards will take place on March 11 in the Oriel House Hotel, Ballincollig, Cork.

Shankill GAA Many thanks to the Geraldine P Moran’s club who brought two U8 football teams to the Castle for a blitz which saw a thrilling morning’s football.

Girls U11 traveled to Ballyboden St Endas. It was

great game of football where playing under lights only added to the excitement.

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.

Training for the boys U12 and girls U9 and 11 years is in the Castle on Saturday mornings at 10am when there is no match.

The midweek evening training is in the process of moving indoors so please check with your team manager for details.

Juvenile Academy sponsored

by O’Donnell’s Pharmacy Shankill is in action this Saturday morning at 10am (check the venue with your team manager) catering for 4-8 year old boys and girls.

Learn the skills of Gaelic football, Hurling and Camogie in a safe and fun environment.

If you would like your child to join the Academy or any of our teams just come along on the day and have fun with your friends, there are no trials, no selection processes and no annual subscription.

The cost is only €2 for each child.

Hurls together with hoodies, fleece tops and beanie hats in our club colours are available in both children’s and adult sizes, must be ordered by November 28 for delivery before Christmas.

2 month Vouchers for

(10 Visit Full Access Gym and Pool Pass) (Swim Only Adult Pass) (Child Swim Pass)

Shoreline Greystones

01 287 8180

Members can bring a friend for free on Fridays

Christmas at Shoreline Leisure

Shoreline Bray

01 276 5660

www.shorelineleisure.ie

sport| 23

November 26 2015 wicklowvoice.ie

insideback

with Brian Quigley

Dunne qualifies with flying colours Greystones golfer Paul Dunne pulled off a remarkable feat last week when he earned a full European Professional Golf Tour card for 2016 at the tour qualifying school at the PGA Catalunya Resort in Girona, Spain. This puts Paul, who came to global prominence by leading the British Open going into the final round this summer as an amateur, straight into the big league.

The qualifying school is the stuff of legend in golf.

Thousands of professionals enter the initial stages (there are three stages, Paul Dunne was one of only seven players to come right through them all and secure a tour card) and there are only 25 cards up for grabs, bringing with them the coveted Category 15 Membership of the European Tour. This means avoiding all the feeder tours, mini tours and sub tours that are the necessary fall-back for the players who didn’t get their card.

Dunne spoke after the gruelling ordeal of ‘’never wanting to come back here again’’ (if European Tour members don’t finish in the top 121 of the Order of Merit they have to go back to Q-School).

Hopefully he will be back there again – specifically in 2022 as a member of the European Ryder Cup team when the Catalunya Resort hosts the event!

Dunne was the only Irish golfer to qualify through Q-School this year. Damien McGrane, Peter Lawrie, Simon

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Thornton and Kevin Phelan all made it through to the last 156 who lined up for six rounds in Girona, but only Dunne was left standing at the end.

What a testament to his talent. What a source of pride for Greystones, Wicklow and Ireland.

Dunne didn’t shoot over par once in the qualifying process.

In total through November he played a whopping 258 holes over the various qualifying stages, shooting thirty two under par. That’s 14 rounds of golf, not to mention the six extra holes required to get through a six-man play-off for the final two spots out of the second qualifying stage in Tarragona.

In the end Dunne took the sixteenth of the twenty five tour cards and shot a combined total of ten under par for the six rounds at Catalunya, putting him in a tie for thirteenth place, three strokes inside the critical top twenty five mark.

He will most likely make his debut as a tour rookie at the Alfred Dunhill Championship at Leopard Creek in South Africa next month.

Well done Paul!

first cross-country race of the year.

She held off a strong challenge from Lizzie Lee to win.

Both athletes will run in next month’s European Cross Country Championships, and both also recently ran the qualifying standard for the marathon for next year’s Olympics.

Title number seven for Fionnuala Kilcoole AC’s Fionnuala McCormack (Britton) won her seventh GloHealth Inter Club Cross Country title at Santry Demense on Sunday last 22 November. This was a tremendous achievement, given that Fionnuala was running her

All hail Randolph!

Surely Darren Randolph’s name will be first in the goalkeeping positions when Martin O’Neill and Roy Keane start to select their squad for France next summer.

The Bray goalkeeper, together with Jonathan Walters, deserves most credit following the superb

play-off win over BosniaHerzegovina.

Darren made some worldclass saves and has surely ousted Shay Given and David Forde from the number one

position in the team.

The wait is on now to see who we will be playing next summer; we will know when the groups are pulled next month, with England a possible opponent.

Pictured at the Allianz Cumann na mBunscol Trath na gCeist which took place in Lynham’s Hotel, Laragh are the team from Rathcoyle National School who claimed first place.

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wicklowvoice.ie November 26 2015