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Once In A While, Right In The Middle Of An Ordinary Life, Love Gives Us A Fairy-Tale...
wicklowvoice.ie October 8 2015
FREE CCO O R P SE N FOR O I RECEPT DINGS ED ALL W D ON KE O O B Y. THE DA
And for the Groom – Live ur Coverage in o Bar of Ireland y v France Rugb Match
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- Carlow -
To celebrate our newly awarded 4 Star status, We are hosting our
Once In A While, Right In The Middle Of An Ordinary Life, on Sunday 11th October from 4pm to 7pm. Love Gives Us • View our beautiful Wedding Banqueting Suite, Civil Ceremony Suite, Reception Area and Bridal Suite. A Fairy-Tale... • Meet our experienced wedding team on the day.
Wedding Showcase
Join us for a Prosecco and Tea or Coffee Reception, Wedding Menu tastings at 5pm and sample our Wedding Wine throughout the evening.
Exclusive Wedding and Post Wedding Packages available to suit all budget Civil Ceremony and Civil Partnerships also catered for. Exclusive Wedding and Post Wedding Packages available to suit all budgets. Civil Ceremony and Civil Partnerships also catered for.
Exclusive Wedding and Post Wedding Packages available to suit all budgets. Seven Oaks Hotel & Leisure Club, Athy Road, Carlow Civil Ceremony and Civil Partnerships also catered for. T: +353 59 91 31308 E: info@sevenoakshotel.com W: www.sevenoakshotel.com Seven Oaks Hotel & Leisure Club, Athy Road, Carlow T: +353 59 91 31308 E: info@sevenoakshotel.com W: www.sevenoakshotel.com
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It costs €277,505 to buy a house here
By Michelle McGlynn
Wicklow is the third most expensive area to buy a home in the country. The average asking price in the county is €277,505 - this is €72,505 higher than the current national aveage. The only areas with a higher asking price than Wicklow are South Dublin county (€520,451) and South Dublin city (€337,411). The Garden County is currently more expensive than North Dublin city by just over €1,000. Prices in the county have risen by 11% from the third quarter in 2014. While the year-on-year figures have risen by a large amount, the prices have cooled with just a 2% rise quarter-on-quarter. The four commuter counties continue to have a high inflation rate (14%) but this has cooled significantly since the first quarter of this year when it peaked at 24%. Since the lowest point of the downturn, housing prices in
Wicklow have soared 37%. In the past 12 months, three bed semi-detached houses and five bed detached homes have seen the highest inflation rate of 17%. A four bedroom bungalow has also seen a significant surge (15%) while a two bed terraced property has gone up by just 9% in comparison. One bedroom apartments have experienced the lowest increase with an inflation rate of 5%. For the first time since 2011, expected house price inflation outside Dublin (4%) exceeds that for the capital (3%). This dramatic change in trends is viewed as a direct result of the new Central Bank lending caps which limit the amount that can be borrowed. “Those rules have effectively tied house prices to incomes, preventing the possibility of another credit-fueled bubble in the capital,” says economist Dr Ronan Lyons, author of the Daft.ie report. Comment: Page 11
Laura Mullett and Aimee Connolly at the opening of Box Burger in Bray last week (see page 8). Pic: Joe Keogh » Lots more pictures from around the county inside
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04| NEWS news in brief Halloween market Bray Beach Hallowe’en Market will haunt the Harbour Bar on October 31 from 12pm-5pm. Float through the many sections of the famous bar, and enjoy a monstrous mix of craft, fashion, food and music stalls while enjoying some live music.
Lakers walk Lakers Annual Sponsored Walk will take place on October 10 in Glendalough. There are three walks to suit all abilities. Walks commence from Glendalough Upper Lake Car Park by kind permission of National Parks and Wildlife Services. Contact Lakers Office 01 2022694 for sponsorship cards.
Mindful parenting There will be a workshop held in Luisne, Kilcoole on Mindful Parenting on October 10 from 2pm-5pm and costs €35. The workshop will introduce you to ways of cultivating a mindful attention to yourself, your children and the dynamics of your relationship.
wicklowvoice.ie October 8 2015
Jack’s back ... for ten more years By Michelle McGlynn All work and no play makes Jack...pretty happy, actually. Wicklow actor Jack Reynor seems to be jumping from one project to another and it looks like he won’t be slowing down any time soon as Hasbro Studios announce four more Transformers films. Speaking in Cannes, Hasbro president Steven Davis revealed that the studio has planned the next 10 years of
the franchise. Jack appeared in the Transformers series for the first time in last year’s Transformers: Age of Extinction which banked over $1bn at the global box office. The fifth instalment has a rough release date for 2017. Meanwhile, the 23-yearold actor is starring in two upcoming projects: John Carney’s Sing Street and Jim Sheridan’s The Secret Scripture. He has also been cast as Brother Wolf in the Warner
Brothers’ Jungle Book: Origins due for release in 2017. The What Richard Did star was in Dublin recently to promote his latest film, the critically acclaimed Macbeth in which he plays Malcolm son of King Duncan. While on the whirlwind press tour for the Shakespearean drama, Jack revealed that he and fiancee Madeline Mulqueen are both too busy with their respective careers to plan their wedding.
news in brief Parish fayre St Patrick’s annual parish fayre will take place in the national school, Chruch Road on October 10 from 12pm3pm. There will be face painting, a fantastic raffle, stalls and refreshments with all money raised going to Syrian refugees and parish funds.
St David’s Craft fair Calling all craft makers and designers, you can sell your goods for Christmas at St David’s, Greystones on December 5 and 6. Stalls are €45 for one day or €70 for two days. For an application email stdavidscraftfair@gmail.com.
Helping hands HotSpot Helping Hands, a new community initiative to increase social awareness in the community, is holding its first event on October 11 from 12.30pm in Greystones. Busking on the streets begins at 12.30pm followed by live stage performances in the Hot Spot Music Club from 2.30pm till the end of the day. Everyone is invited to get involved.
We’re not lovin’ it ... Big Mac leaves a sour taste By Michelle McGlynn
SOME Greystones residents have been left with a bad tatse in their mouths following the decision to grant planning permission for McDonald’s. Those for and against the restaurant have been involved in a, ahem, bitter row on social media for the last week. And there are questions that need to be answered following the decision by An Bord Pleanála, according to Independent councillor Tom Fortune who has questioned the announcement considering permission had been refused previously for a much smaller development. “Permission was refused previously based on the fact that the development would be contrary to proper planning and the sustainable development of the area,” Cllr Fortune told the Wicklow Voice. “It ruled that the size, the low scale and the extensive car parking involved was a radical alteration to the permitted development of the area.” Yet permission has been granted for a much larger development which will include a cafe and a health and fitness centre in the same location. Cllr Fortune is quick to emphasise that no one is opposed to the multinational company and would welcome the 80 jobs that it is set to generate for the area. The main point of contention
for residents is the location and its close proximity to two primary schools, Gaelscoil na gCloch Liatha and Greystones Educate Together as well as Temple Carrig secondary school. Greystones residents have opposed the proposal to build a McDonald’s at the Blacklion centre since it was initially lodged in 2014. As studies over the past few years have shown, childhood obesity is rapidly rising in Ireland with one recent report revealing that one in four Irish children are overweight and a quarter of 11-year-olds are now clinically obese. Some local parents believe that the choice of location was a deliberate attempt to target schoolchildren. Reaction to the announcement on Facebook has varied from “It is up to ucs to teach our kids how bad and unhealthy fast food is” to “No wonder Ireland is getting fatter, all of these unhealthy fast food places” and “Track the obesity rate in Greystones once this opens”. For their part, McDonald’s have stated, “Proximity to local schools is not a deciding factor or part of the criteria for McDonald’s when it comes to assessing suitable locations for new restaurants.” For now, public representatives and concerned parents are assessing what channels are open to them as they continue their fight against the famous Golden Arches.
Take me to court? By Michelle McGlynn
Despite recent rumours, Hozier is not suing a fellow musician. The Bray singer has decided against taking a Canadian songwriter to court over claims his smash hit, Take Me To Church plagiarised another song. During a video for German radio station 1Live, Chilly
Gonzales claimed that Hozier’s breakout hit is “almost the exact same thing” as Canadian singer Feist’s How Come You Never Go There which was released one year prior to Church. Responding to reports of an ensuing legal battle, Hozier released a statement saying that Gonzales had issued an apology which was accepted and very much appreciated.
NEWS |05
October 8 2015 wicklowvoice.ie
wicklow people in pictures
Lucky local man Barry O’Donoghue was the winner of €20,000 as part of a promotion for the National Lottery’s Bigger Better Lotto game. Barry, who won after collecting six tokens from the Irish Independent and Sunday Independent, says he is thinking about taking a trip to England for the Rugby World Cup. Pic: Gerry Mooney
Luke Healy and Aaron Wakefield out and about in Bray
Ruben (7) and Mark Dockeray are all smiles in Greystones
Bray Area Partnership ELLE Project students receiving their ECDL and Payroll certs, with Anne Ferris, Vice-Chair of the Oireachtas Justice, Defence and Equality Committee, and Susanne Martin and Peter Brennan, Bray Area Partnership
Oisín Murphy was out and about in Arklow at the weekend and enjoying what might be the last of the good weather. Pic: Yvette O Beirne
Brendan and Maureen Whyte out and about in Bray
Finn (11 months), Angela, Zach (4), Peter and Ben (2) Hayes out and about in Greystones
06| NEWS
wicklowvoice.ie October 8 2015
heading away for a good cause in SA
Paul Crowe, Hollywood; John Sheehan, Bray; Bernadette Keogh, Hollywood; Sandy Dunne, Wicklow; Darren Murray, Wicklow; Frank Doyle, Delgany and Marie Humby, Ashford preparing for the November Mellon Educate Building Blitz in Cape Town. The volunteers will join 250 others to help build 12 classrooms for the children in Masiphumelele township. The charity’s focus is on education with school builds and teacher training programmes. www.melloneducate.com
TEMPTRESS SATURDAY 24 OCTOBER 8PM
Last-minute reprieve for St Brigid’s NS By Michelle McGlynn
Temptress is a startling new take on the Irish ghost story. a DarKLY COMIC play Written by award winning Wicklow writer Philip St John. TICKETS: €16/14 Mermaid Arts Centre, Main Street, Bray 01 2724030 | WWW.MERMAIDARTSCENTRE.IE
There was positive news for students at St Brigid’s National School, Greystones as the Department of Education halted the sale of the adjoining land at the eleventh hour. The convent building and adjoining land next to the primary school was due to be auctioned on October 6 at 3.30pm at Buswells Hotel, Dublin. After months of negotiations, Savills who were handling the sale began calling preferred bidder the night before the auction to inform them that the site was sale agreed. It was confirmed hours before the convent was due to be sold that the Department of Education had agreed to purchase the land. “It is wonderful news for the staff, students and parents of
St Brigid’s,” Social Democrats TD Stephen Donnelly told the Wicklow Voice. “All credit must go to the school, especially Sister Kathleen the principal, the school board and head of the board, Tom Sherlock. “They have clearly put a great deal of work into making this deal a reality and have done a superb job negotiating behind the scenes over the past few months.” When the Holy Faith Order made the decision to put the site up for sale, St Brigid’s saw it as their chance to secure the longterm viability of the school. With housing and other buildings surrounding the school, this site was the only opportunity for the school to expand. The school currently has over 500 students and just one quarter of the land a school of its
size should have. The lack of land and open space leaves little room for sporting activities and means that break times must be phased. The school contacted the Department about securing the land once plans to sell were confirmed and Deputy Donnelly spoke with Minister for Education, Jan O’Sullivan. As the long process continued, it looked unlikely that the land would be purchased by the Department until the last minute deal last Monday. At the moment, there are no definite plans for the site as it is unconfirmed how much money the Department can afford invest following the purchase. The historical convent will remain and it is hoped that it can be used as a fully equipped, modern sports hall.
NEWS|07
October 8 2015 wicklowvoice.ie
news in brief The Elders Irish musicians The Elders will play in the Arklow Bay Hotel on October 22 at 9pm joined by guests Fran Harper, Eimear Harpur and the Penston Vocal Academy. Tickets are ₏10 from the hotel and Kustom Kids, Main Street with proceeds going to Lavander Ward, St Coleman’s Hospital and Arklow Music and Arts.
Laughter yoga Wicklow Mental Health Association will be holding a laughter yoga evening in the Grand Hotel on October 13 at 8pm. Laughter yoga is a revolutionary exercise routine that is fun and uplifting. It is free of charge and you should bring a mat and a blanket.
Beehive closes Well-known Wicklow pub The Beehive closed their doors earlier this week when the current management team decide against renewing their lease option. The owners of the pub are looking for new tenants to take over the premises on a two year lease.
08| NEWS news in brief Monster raffle
The Aoife and Aine Kennedy Memorial Monster Halloween Raffle will be held in Hogan’s Lounge on October 17 at 9pm. All of the proceeds will go towards St Patrick’s Special Needs School, Enniscorthy. Tickets are available from committee members and Hogan’s.
Film industry boost
wicklowvoice.ie October 8 2015
boxing clever BRAY Burger joint creates 40 new jobs By Michelle McGlynn
Wicklow County Council have given the local film industry a boost with their decision to allow for a 100% reduction in development contributions for film studio infrastructure. Councillors have also agreed to make a case to central government for the raising of the cap on the section 481 tax credit scheme.
Table Tennis Arklow Table Tennis club are holding an open evening in the Bridge Christian Community Church, Wexford Road on October 8 from 7pm. Come along for a game and a cup of coffee. The club currently have three teams in the Bray and District league. For more information, call 086 0551801.
Clockwise from top left: Sarah Reynolds; Dwayne Ninnis and Amanda Curneen; and Niamh Tierney and Laura Mullett at Box Burger. Pix: Joe Keogh
A new restaurant in has created 40 new jobs on Bray Seafront. Box Burger is based in the old Railway Building, the 160 year old building has been utilised to give the restaurant a unique personality. Officially opened last week, the launch saw many of Ireland’s glitterati in attendance. Among the familiar faces were top models, Holly Keating and Sinead Duffy. Food blogs such as LovinDublin and Gourmet Grazing turned out to give their verdict on the seafront’s latest offering. “We are delighted to be bringing 40 new jobs to the town,” owner Conor Duggan told the Wicklow Voice. “The turnout at the launch was fantastic and it was great to receive such a positive response. “Of course, we couldn’t do it without the support of our wonderful customers and we would like to thank them for all of their support.” The addition of Box Burger has cemented Bray’s reputation as a foodie destination. The number of people travelling from Dublin to dine out in the town has increased in recent years and this trend is sure to continue with the introduction of Box Burger. The menu offers a range of choices from the classic beef to the more unusual Mac & Cheese Burger - a 100% prime Irish beef patty and a patty made with macaroni and cheese with even more cheese on top. Box Burger offers a range of alternatives to the burger as Sinead D well as an extensive cockHolly Keatiuffy and pic); Kate ng (main tail menu and a selection B D anielle Ga arry and of craft beers from local Niamh O’S yson; and brewery, Wicklow Wolf. ha (G ourmetGraughnessy The new restaurant zi Cormac D ng) and is brought to you by ooley the same people behind Platform Pizza, Ocean Bar and Grill and the Martello Hotel.
October 8 2015 wicklowvoice.ie
ADVERTISING|09
10 | OPINION
opinion&comment
We need more direct democracy
A
rising from the Prime Time Investigation of the Aras Attracta nursing home revelations which showed residents being slapped, kicked, verbally abused, force fed and physically restrained, the HSE’s independently appointed review group has set up a public consultation inviting concerned and interested members of the public to have their say on urgent changes and reforms in the provision of care for people with intellectual disabilities. Any decent human being who watched the RTÉ production or read the many reports last December will recall being completely shocked with what they saw. The emotional response was understandably one of disbelief, disgust and ultimately anger. What’s now important is that changes are put in place so that we never let this happen again. We’re talking about the most vulnerable people in our society. We owe it to them. Questions need to be answered on the best approach: whether through legislation or procedures, involving training, funding or oversight. The time to act is now, not a few years down the line when another incident occurs and people wonder why nothing was done after Aras Attracta. The public consultation process should be welcomed and engaged with. It’s an active step in the right direction for Wicklow residents including parents, guardians, friends, care professionals - especially those who have experience of care services for the intellectually disabled. They now have the opportunity to have their genuinely held concerns and grievances listened to and hopefully acted upon. Ideally this information will lead to meaningful and constructive reform within the intellectual disability care sector. We don’t know whether that will happen. What will happen is that the review group will have the benefit of relevant feedback from those who actually use care services. Inclusion Ireland, the leading national association for people with intellectual disabilities, have been entrusted with the responsibility of hosting submissions from the public through their website. The questions asked are refreshingly straightforward. For example, One asks, what action can providers take to ensure people are treated with dignity and respect? While another asks, how to prevent neglect. The only downside I see is that many
people are not aware that the public consultation period even exists. Real change is difficult to achieve without residents being informed, encouraged and empowered to speak up and directly offer their wisdom to the policy making process. We’ve seen this before. Poor decision making by government and we are left shaking our heads wondering who dropped the ball, and why it wasn’t picked up on. Irish Water is a classic example. It doesn’t have to be this way. Wicklow residents and community groups have a fountain of valuable knowledge that needs to be tapped into by policy-makers. Public consultations are one way of doing just that. At the moment that’s about as near as it gets to meaningful ‘Direct Democracy’ or what some politicians call ‘Subsidiarity’ in our country. Wicklow TDs have talked a lot about the theory of reform. They claim they would like to empower Wicklow people. Yet here we are with a rare chance for public-lead reform that concerns many of us and our representatives sit on their hands. Could they not use up some of their precious airtime or print space to let parents and carers know that they too can make a difference? Is that too much to ask? It’s sad and cynical to hear zero from our representatives. That said I’m confident that, as with other real-life issues, people will overcome this incompetence. By demanding their representatives to be more forthcoming - to inform them of real democratic processes. Public consultation is too often overlooked by our representatives and yet it’s continuously open to public input in some shape or another. Not just at election time. The prevailing political assumption that people ‘just don’t care’ needs to be turned on its head. James Doyle is a North Wicklow Fianna Fáil Activist, Solicitor and Part-Time Farmer.
What’s important is that changes are made so that we never let this happen again
“L
“You’ll play, of course,” John told me. “Everyone from Ireland is a natural rugby player.”
Tweets of the week
Footy Accumulators @FootyAccums “Tomorrow’s headline: Robbie Keane found dead, Roy Keane in questioning.”
Rhys James @rhysjamesy “Daddy, how are babies made? Son, when a man and woman love each other very much he buys a subscription to Netflix and invites her to chill” Dara Ó Briain @daraobriain “Quite touched by how many people saw the news about the Physics Nobel prize today and thought to alert me. The Neutrinos...have...mutated!” Rubber Bandits @Rubberbandits “Why in the song Lady in Red does Chris de Burgh pronounce the word ‘dance’ as ‘dawnce’ but not ‘romance’ as ‘romawnce’? Is he on Twitter?”
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 James Doyle with Michael Wolsey
Why I never played rugby for Ireland
ike many a good story, this one involves an Irishman, an English man and a Scotsman. One cut short my rugby-playing career, another revived it and the third brought it to an end, once and for all. The Irishman went by the distinctive name of Derek Peekar. He was the son of a farmer and a giant of a lad. The same description could have been applied to half the boys at the school I attended; six foot and growing, built like combine harvesters, heads like bulls, hands like shovels. They all loved rugby and that went down very well with the school. I was in the other half. We were city kids of normal proportions and we mostly preferred soccer, which the school would not let us play. On the rugby field we spent most of our time trying to avoid the farming fraternity who took a delight in ploughing us into the mud. To this end I acquired a set of skills which, had I put them to different use, might actually have made me a reasonable rugby player. I developed good tactical awareness which helped me avoid contact with other players, not to mention the ball. I had good handling ability - so if, by some mischance, I did end up with ball, I could get rid of it almost instantly. Since I rarely presented anything like an attacking threat, I had little to fear from tackles. But, just in case, I developed a neat little swivel-and-turn movement which sent many a foe in the wrong direction. Throwing away the ball as I turned, helped greatly to reduce the danger. Sometimes it even looked like a pass. My plan was to appear active enough to avoid the wrath of games’ teachers while also avoiding the fists and feet of farmers’ sons. I may have overdone the first part of the equation for I got picked for a trial for the school’s under-15 side. I had no real fear of being selected but I did fear the boys out there who were ready to kill for that honour. It was a poor kick that caused the trouble. The ball bounced tamely in front of me and there was no honourable way I could avoid it. But there, behind the ball, was a sight to chill the heart - Derek Peekar, six foot of agricultural aggression, bearing down on me at full pelt. There was no time for pretence or fancy manoeuvres. I swivel-turned out of the way and
waved the ball, and Derek, through for a splendid try. “Well you’ll never make the team anyway,” growled the disgusted teacher. Ah, sweet music to my ears. And that would have been the end of my rugby days, but for the Englishman. John Pugh was editor of the Liverpool Daily Post, a newspaper where I worked a decade or so after my moment of school infamy. John had been a good rugby player and was a keen follower of the game. He had a high regard for Irish rugby, based mainly on a long-standing friendship with Willie John McBride. In a fit of enthusiasm for his favourite sport he organised a match between the Daily Post and a team from two Edinburgh newspapers. The venture was illfated, for hardly anyone on the Daily Post staff knew anything about rugby. “You’ll play, of course,” John told me. “Everyone from Ireland is a natural rugby player.” Well, I had to oblige. The honour of my nation was at stake - not to mention any hope of promotion at work. And so, on a chilly day in November. I stood on a park pitch in bleak Birkenhead. Memories came flooding back and they weren’t good. We were facing 15 clones of my school mates, each 10 years older and five stone heavier. And there was Derek Peekar, who had cleverly morphed into a Scotsman called Malcolm. Twenty minutes into the game, he was bearing down on me with undisguised menace. The honour of Ireland insisted that I stand up to him. Commonsense said I should get out of the way. Commonsense won. But I was out of practice. My swivel-turn was not as speedy as it used to be and I felt a searing pain as I went down with 18 stone of Scotsman on top of me. Legend, which I encouraged, had it that I risked life and limb for my team. But in truth the injury was not inflicted by Malcolm. The damage was done when I tried to escape. The doctor in Birkenhead hospital had two bits of good news. With the help of a metal pin, the broken ankle would heal perfectly ... “but I’m afraid you’ll never play rugby again.” Two women visiting a man in the next bed overheard and were shocked. “He’ll never play rugby again,” they repeated sadly. And I never did. Your loss, Joe Schmidt. Eat your heart out.
OPINION| 11
October 8 2015 wicklowvoice.ie
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Have you got a story? Then email info@wicklowvoice.ie
Supply and demand
Photographed at Ireland’s Best Young Entrepreneur, Co. Wicklow final awards presentation at the Wicklow Local Enterprise Office are Andrew Doyle TD, Minister Richard Bruton, James Keogh of Rathwood, Cllr Irene Winters, Chief Executive of Wicklow County Council Bryan Doyle and Head of Enterprise at LEO Wicklow Sheelagh Daly. Pic: Roger Kenny
Tops of the towns keeps us all tidy
T
he upward trend in results achieved by the county’s entrants in this year’s Tidy Towns Awards was a welcome and significant achievement. It confirmed what those involved in the many Tidy Towns efforts across the county already knew – that a huge effort is being put in at local levels to put individual towns and the county as a whole on the map as destinations to live, work or visit. It was nice to see this confirmed and recognised by the judging panel. Apart from the obvious tourism objective, where any place hoping to attract visitors needs to put its best foot forward, entering a competition like the Tidy Towns is also about bringing a community together in a voluntary way to harness a collective pride in achieving something. The efforts and the rewards are shared. When you consider the many modules that simply entering involves completing (Overall Development Ap-
Brian Quigley proach, The Built Environment, Landscaping, Wildlife and Natural Amenities, Litter Control, Tidiness, Waste Minimisation, Residential Areas, Roads and Streets) there can be no doubt that nothing would be achieved without the input and positivity of many, many people. The prestige involved in scoring well in (or even simply entering) the Tidy Towns Awards stems from the long histroy the competition enjoys. You can trace it right back to the 1950’s, where from 1953 to 1957 an early version of the competition existed as the National Spring Clean Campaign. This evolved into the Tidy Towns in 1958 (it was launched by Bord Failte – now Failte Ireland) and the event is still run-
ning – 2015 being the 58th staging of the competition. Now Ireland’s most popular and well-known local environmental initiative, Tidy Towns in its early years was associated with An Tostal – a nationwide celebration of all things Irish. The first staging had barely more than 50 entrant towns; now there are upwards of 700. Since 1995 The Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government has assumed responsibility for the competition, and in recent years SuperValu have come on board as sponsor. When you consider this combined association of business, communities and government to produce something positive you can see how the Tidy Towns is a model for how other aspects of our nation could be run. Wicklow has a proud history in the Tidy Towns, with Overall Winner titles for Kiltegan in 1973 and Aughrim in 2007 (the fiftieth calendar year the event was run in). Aughrim has also received recognition by winning the Small Town award on a num-
ber of occasions (since 2002 the competition, as well as announcing an overall winner, has had break-out section awards for Village, Small Town, Large Town and Large Urban Centre). Given the town’s illustrious history in the competition, it was great to see Aughrim adding to their achievements by being announced this year as Wicklow’s tidiest town for the second successive year. The focus of the Tidy Towns Awards has undergone a subtle shift over the years, with the emphasis now firmly placed on participating rather than winning. This is a very wise and inclusive philosophy – in any competition anyone who takes part should be applauded. If you can improve your yearon-year score (as everywhere in Wicklow did this summer) then that is an added bonus. The written report that is sent to each entrant is always complimentary in its feedback and offers positive suggestions for the future – exactly the right way to encourage towns to keep participating. If only everything could be run along these lines!
The death recently in Dublin city of homeless man Alan Murphy, not far from where another homeless man, Jonathan Corrie died last Christmas, brought back into sharp focus the problem of homelessness in our society. That both these deaths happened a stone’s throw away from Leinster House is all the more poignant. Homelessness is now at crisis levels, and the winter is just around the corner. The government should be declaring the situation an emergency and looking for all-party support to find a solution. It should go to or near the top of the agenda for the forthcoming election, not be swept aside as people are hoodwinked with some tax cuts to buy their votes. While they are at it they could add a few other aspects to the housing situation in general to the agenda. Why are our councils not building more homes for families who need them, families who instead are being housed in bed and breakfast accomodation after being evicted from their dwelling because the rent was put up or because their home was repossessed? Is it because the budget for this kind of programme has had some or all of its funds diverted to keep Irish Water afloat? The government need to answer. There is a mounting human cost to the austerity years. The problem of accomodation is not always better at the other end of the spectrum, where people are fortunate enough to have good jobs. Recently PayPal, which employs 2,400 people in and near the capital, asked staff to consider renting a room in their home to new recruits who are finding it impossible to get rented accomodation. The nature of their business means staff with different language backgrounds need to be brought in from abroad, and they will obviously be looking to rent in the short term, which means competing for Dublin nd Wicklow’s already limited rental market with the student community and everyone else. The problem is so serious that PayPal even suggested their business could be adversely affected if they can’t bring in staff because there is nowhere for them to live. This should act as a very loud alarm bell to the politicians. Our economic recovery could be in jeopardy not because we can’t attract business here but because we don’t have sufficient accomodation and other supporting structures in place. Rent prices in Dublin and Wicklow are being driven up and up because too many people want to live, work and study in the capital, and there are too few rental units to accommodate them all. This means the landlords get richer and can pick and choose who they rent to, while at the other end of the scale hard-pressed families are being forced out to live in bed and breakfast accomodation as an ongoing solution. Given that these same families have already shouldered a huge burden during the recession years, it’s not unfair to say that the government is failing the people who need it the most. The problem of high rents seems to have been made worse not better by the Central Bank measures (in relation to prospective house buyers having a percentage of the price saved up) which was supposed to take the heat out of rising house prices. Declaring a state of emergency over the homelessness / housing crisis could allow various solutions to the problem be floated and discussed. Could the incoming government as a priority set about renewing the many derelict dwellings and buildings in various parts of the city to provide more homes and rented accomodation? Could they incentivise to a better degree businesses to set up or locate in other parts of the country? Could their be incentives beyond what currently exits for people to move to more rural areas, areas which would welcome an influx of new families? Could the number of local authority builds be prioritised with the revenues from our recovery so that it approximates something more like what is actually required? There may not be answers to all of these questions found in the short term, but they should be asked and discussed. Now is the time to debate all aspects of this issue. Nobody should be without a home in 2015 in a wealthy country like Ireland. No child should have to go to school from a bed and breakfast when it is not an insurmountable problem to provide that child’s family with their own home. Maybe ask these questions of the politicians on the campaign trails rather than letting them tell you about the giveaway budget they are lining up. - BQ
12 | SPORT wicklowvoice.ie October 8 2015
Well done to
Wicklow Senior hurl
Congratulations to Bray Emmets GAA for winning the Wicklow Senior Hurling Championship Final From
well done to teacher Peter Kiely and all the other Past Pupils
SPORT | 13
October 8 2015 wicklowvoice.ie
o bray emmets
ling champions 2015
Congratulations!
well done Bray Emmets and well played Carnew Emmets
well done Bray Emmets on your great win!
14 | lifestyle
wicklowvoice.ie October 8 2015
my favourite things
WHAT’s HOT
with Michelle McGlynn info@wicklowvoice.ie
Star in stripes This autumn, we’ll be keeping on the straight and narrow with plenty of pinstripe. It’s a classic look for a reason: you can wear it any way, any time. Pinstripes is a smart look in the office or it can add a colourful splash with bright accessories. Choose from narrow lines or chunky strips, this trend looks great on everyone.
Main pic: Box top €34.99; Culottes €34.99; Sunglasses €20; all Very.co.uk. Below: Jumpsuit €49.99 and tailored trousers €29.99, both Dorothy Perkins. Rainbow heel, Dune, €115. Right: Midi dress, New Look, €22.99 Below right: Top €25, Jeans €39.99, both Dorothy Perkins
lifestyle | 15
October 8 2015 wicklowvoice.ie
Peter Byrne
Head Chef at Sika Restaurant in The Powerscourt Hotel
food in wicklow
Ingredients 2 shallots 1 clove garlic 300 grams carnaroli risotto rice 1 litre chicken stock 1 squash cut into ½ inch pieces 50 grams parmesan/ grated 50 grams unsalted butter 100 grams pine nuts/ roasted 100 grams crozier blue cheese
METHOD Add the stock to a pan and warm gently until steaming. Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a saucepan on a low-medium heat. Add the shallots and garlic and cook until soft but not coloured. Add the rice and cook for 1 minute, stirring continuously until the grains turn slightly translucent. Add the white wine and reduce until the pan is almost dry Add the diced butternut squash and cook for a further 2-3 minutes to coat in the oil Begin to add the stock, approximately 200ml at a time. Simmer gently and stir occasionally
until the liquid is absorbed by the rice, ensuring the contents of the pan do not stick to the base Continue to add the stock in 200ml additions until used up and absorbed (add more stock if required, the rice should be al dente). Remove the pan from the heat and add the Parmesan Stir in the cubes of butter until the risotto is rich and glossy. Add salt, pepper or lemon juice to taste Stir in the pine nuts and blue cheese reserving some of both for garnish. Divide the risotto into bowls or onto plates and garnish with the remaining cheese and pine nut
€10 OFF
COLOUR* WITH CUTTING
Butternut squash, pine nut and blue cheese risotto ALL WEEK UNTIL SATURDAY 31 OCTOBER 2015
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OFF
FULL HEAD EASI-MECHE WITH CUT
Visit our
Wedding Open Day Saturday 17th October 2015 from 10am-5pm RSVP to Nessa Kearney for a personal appointment T: 01 287 0811 E: nessa.kearney@druidsglenresort.com The five-star Druids Glen Hotel & Golf Resort provides an idyllic setting for a memorable day. Whether you intend to have an extravagant wedding or a small intimate gathering of those closest to you, our dedicated wedding co-ordinator and banqueting team provide an excellent personal service. The attention is all yours, as it should be, as we cater for one wedding per day in the chandelier lit James Joyce Ballroom and civil ceremonies in the Oscar Wilde Suite.
www.druidsglenresort.com | Newtownmountkennedy, Co. Wicklow.
Bridgewater S/C, Arklow. Tel: 040 241 189. Late Nights Thursday & Friday. Open Sundays 12-5pm. Bray S/C, Wicklow. Tel: 01 286 0040. Late Nights: Thursday & Friday. *Offer excludes pop colour, masking and floodlight services
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16 | WHAT’S HOT WILDLIFE
with Justin Ivory
Dates for your diary The current patch of glorious autumn weather should be all the enticement you need to get out and explore the great outdoors. The list of the events below will help you do just that. Rut Watch October 10, 11am to 4pm Get up close and personal with the annual deer rut. National Park staff shall have telescopes set up on the Spinc walking trail between 11am and 4pm. Anyone walking on this route is welcome to stop by, view the deer through the telescopes and discuss the deer and their ecology with our staff. The Spinc trail takes three hours. All are welcome, although the hike may be too long for young children. Please note, that participants will not be escorted on the hike. Hiking boots and rain gear are recommended. Bring binoculars if you have them. All dogs must be kept on leads. This event is free of charge, but please be aware that the Upper Lake car park (Wicklow Co. Co.) has a €4 charge. Autumn Migration at Kilcoole October 11, 10.30am Outing along the coast at Kilcoole to look for Autumn migrants with the Wicklow Branch of BirdWatch Ireland. Meet at Kilcoole train station car park. This is a free event. All are welcome. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Waterproof clothing and suitable footwear advised. Mushroom Hunt at Killruddery Estate, October 11, 9.30am to 4.30pm Hunt and forage on the Killruddery Estate and discover the mysteries of mushrooms with Ireland’s premier mycologist Bill O’Dea. Once you have gathered all your mushrooms, you’ll return to base and take part in cooking your findings with Bill and the Killruddery cook Seamus. As you will be walking the Killruddery Estate it is recommend that you wear comfortable, waterproof walking shoes. Booking is necessary. Tickets are €70 pp or €63 for Killruddery members. Booking is necessary and can be done online.
wicklowvoice.ie October 8 2015
Wedding showcase of the week Seven Oaks hotel and Leisure club wedding showcase Athy Road, Co Carlow, 059 9131308, October 11, 4pm-7pm Seven Oaks Hotel and Leisure Club invite you to enjoy your fairytale wedding with them. With their newly awarded four-star status, Seven Oaks is a beautiful location for your special day. Join them for their wedding showcase where you can view all they have to offer. View the stunning wedding ballroom, gorgeous civil service suite and the luxurious bridal suite. Everything will be set up so you can see exactly how it will look on your wedding day. There will be a Prosecco and tea/coffee reception on your arrival with wedding menu tastings from 5pm. There will also be tastings for wedding wines. The Seven Oaks wedding team will be on hand to discuss packages to suit your individual needs and answer any queries you may have. All weddings booked on the day will receive a free Prosecco reception. All couples will be entered into a draw to receive a complimentary wedding package upgrade on the day. There’s no need to fret, rugby fans as the hotel have thoughtfully decided to screen the Ireland v France match so you won’t miss a thing!
Event of the week Presentation College Bray Past Pupil’s Union dinner Barracuda, Strand Road, Bray, October 23 Following on from last year’s success, Presentation College Bray Past Pupil’s Union are back with another fantastic line-up for their annual dinner. This year’s guest speaker will be former Irish Women’s Rugby Grand Slam winning coach, Philip ‘Goose’ Doyle. Philip is now coaching Presentation’s Junior Cup Team and this dinner will be a wonderful way to welcome him to the school. Joining him on the night will be former Pres coach and Ireland international Nick Popplewell and other former coaches Simon Doyle, Jimmy Canice, Pat Gregory and more. Director and past pupil Simon Fitzmaurice will receive an award in recognition of his success in the film industry. International cricketer Ed Joyce will also be honoured at the event. Due to unprecedented demand a small number of extra tickets have been made available. Avoid disappointment and book yours today at presbrayppu.com/presidentsdinner.
book of the week The Maximalist: The rise and fall of Tony O’Reilly By Matt Cooper Strikingly good-looking, athletically gifted, irresistably charismatic and phenomenally wealthy, he had everything any man could want. For many, he was a hero, the living embodiment of Irish potential; for others, he was an arrogant and overbearing presence at the heart of power. Without doubt, he was the most powerful unelected Irishman of the past 50 years. His philosophy was simple: I am a maximalist...I want more of everything. But it was never enough. And today, O’Reilly’s empire and the formidible reputation it established lie in tatters. In this landmark biography, Matt Cooper draws on an abundance of new material, including interviews with many of O’Reilly’s closest family, friends, associates and rivals, to uncover the man behind the myth. An Irish epic, it documents in unflinching detail and with great subtlety the meteoric rise and slow unravelling of an Irish icon.
TV SHOW of the week Homeland RTE 2, Tuesdays, 9pm Season five of this espionage thriller will be set in Berlin. It picks up two years after the events of last season with Carrie Mathison (Claire Danes) struggling to reconcile her guilt and disillusionment after years of working on the front lines in the war on terror. Carrie finds herself in a self-imposed exile in Berlin, estranged from the CIA and working as the head of security
Album of the week Helios/Erebus By God is an Astronaut Wicklow band God Is An Astronaut have just released their seventh album, Helios/Erebus and it is a marvellous record, possibly their best since their early albums. The band have been touring heavily this year and audience reaction to this new material has been very positive indeed. Now returned to a four-piece line-up, the music has moved on since the previous effort Origins, with more extended space-rock and ambient segments built on top of their trademark post-rock sound. The first track Agneya is a real statement of intent, and another early track, Vetus Memoria showcases the twin pleasures of extended guitar and keyboard workouts that work independently or together in underpinning the bands music. GIAA eschew vocals in favour of the sonic experience, and when the music is this good, who needs vocals? - By Brian Quigley
for a German philanthropist. But Carrie soon finds herself back in the thick of things, in a scenario that not only engages her savvy in navigating the Middle East, but also evokes shadows from her past. Real life storylines in this series include ISIS, Vladimir Putin, the Charlie Hebdo shooting and Edward Snowden. New faces joining the cast include Miranda Otto as a CIA station chief and Sebastian Koch as a German businessman/philanthropist.
6 7 8 9 10
WHAT’S HOT| 17
October 8 2015 wicklowvoice.ie
MOVIE of the week Sicario Gaiety Cinema, Arklow It’s only October but it looks like Oscar season is kicking off already with the release of Sicario, starring Emily Blunt. After rising through the ranks of her male dominated profession, idealistic FBI agent Kate Macer (Blunt) receives a top assignment. Recruited by mysterious government official Matt Graver (Josh Brolin), Kate joins a task force for the escalating war against drugs. Led by the intense and shadowy Alejandro (Benicio Del Toro), the team travels back and forth across the US-Mexican border, using one cartel boss (Bernardo Saracino) to flush out a bigger one (Julio Cesar Cedillo). Blunt gives a steely performance in this ensemble drama which will no doubt generate awards buzz for the actress.
HOROSCOPES
Slimming tip of the week Slimming World The Wilton Hotel, Bray, Wednesdays, 7.30pm, 086 4661566 Since Slimming World Bray opened its first 7.30pm class on a Wednesday in September 2013, the people of Bray have become 20,101 pounds lighter. They have done this while still enjoying their treats like cake, pizza, their favourite tipple and eating foods like potatoes, pasta, rice, beans, bread and takeaways. The generous eating plan makes
slimming easier than you ever thought possible. Instead of telling you what you can or can’t eat, Food Optimising puts you in control. You don’t need to worry about weighing all your food, counting points or monitoring every mouthful. The support offered at Slimming World is based on a deep understanding of how you feel and a passionate desire to help you achieve your personal weight loss goals - and maintain them for life. If you want to know more, give Grainne a call today.
Alpha CC Units 3-4 Rosebank, Herbert Road, 01 2861800, alphacc.ie
Virgo- This week is a 9 Crazy dreams seem possible, but breakdown potential is high. Don’t try new tricks. Advance your career. Look before leaping.
GIG of the week
Open Day of the week Vault Shop Arklow Youth Centre, Coomie Lane, Arklow, October 10, 10.30am-4pm East Wicklow Youth Service invite you to the official launch of the Vault Shop. Come on down to the shop which is beside the new library on the main street any time between 10.30am and 4pm to check out what’s on offer. There will be a free raffle ticket with every purchase made which will put you in a draw on the day for a fabulous prize. Some young people who have excelled at both local and national level in their local club have been invited to co-host the opening of the shop. After you have visited the shop, head across the road to the youth centre where the Youth Service will be showcasing the various services they provide. There will be tea and nibbles available in the youth centre and members of the team will be on hand to answer any questions you might have. Pictured are some of the young people involved with the Arkow Youth Centre.
Gemini- This week is a 6 Discover a magnetic attraction. Avoid a conflict of interests. Heed the voice of experience. A hunch could get profitable.
Leo- This week is a 7 Watch for unexpected changes. Listen. Revise plans. Friends come through for you. Make a decision together. Avoid stepping on toes.
Alpha CC have recently celebrated their 30th anniversary. At the heart of the company’s success is the ability to provide a full 360° set of IT and consultancy services to both SME and large corporate clients. Online services offered include IT cleaning, IT solutions, cloud and online services, they also specialise and consult on data protection. You can run your business more efficiently when you take advantage of the Office 365 Business Premium which includes all the features of both Microsoft Business Essentials and Microsoft Business in one integrated plan. Pictured are l-r: Jonathan Donnelly, Ruth Donnelly, Eoin Doran and Michael Nangle of Alpha CC.
Ireland’s Ambassador of Comedy Conal Gallen is back on stage with his hilarious new one man show. After taking over 18 months out to tour his hugely successful comedy play, A Bit on the Side, Conal is back with what promises to be his best show yet, jam-packed with over two hours of hilarious jokes, stories and songs which will have you in stitches from start to finish. He has been writing a whole set of brand new material along with some firm
Taurus- This week is a 7 Don’t be intimidated. Ask for what you were promised. Someone important is paying attention. Pay bills before treats. Don’t waste your money.
Cancer- This week is an 8 Study a mystery and discover a secret. Finish your work in private. Keep your wits. Slow things down. Deadlines loom
Business of the week
Conal Gallen Arklow Bay Hotel, Sea Road, October 18, 7.30pm
Aries- This week is a 6 Shyness, lack of confidence, money problems or trouble in a partnership keep your mood quiet. Avoid controversy and fuss.
fan favourites to give his audience, what he considers his best show yet. After 25 years of entertaining audiences around the world, Conal Gallen has perfected the art of stand up comedy like no other. He gets reactions to his hilarious jokes and stories that most comedians can only dream about. Loved by audiences young and old, Conal has proved time and time again why he is Ireland’s funniest man with his hilarious, side-splitting brand of comedy. Early booking is advised, contact the Arklow Bay Hotel on 0402 26200.
Libra- This week is a 5 Study the road ahead. Weigh options. Don’t get mad when others remind you to stay on task. Travel appeals, but it’s not without peril. Scorpio- This week is an 8 Show your love for an elder. Avoid doing stuff you know will irritate your partner. Organise paperwork and keep accounts current. Sagittarius- This week is a 7 Give kind words, not expensive treats. Complications could arise. Compromise is required. Somebody would like to share your load. Capricorn- This week is a 6 Obstacles merit careful steps. Avoid reacting automatically, and wait on big decisions. Focus on the job at hand. Slow down to get things done quicker. Aquarius- This week is a 9 Patience serves you. Don’t fall for a trick. A temporary clash between love and money could irritate. Get creative in your spare time. Pisces- This week is a 5 Wait to advance. Arguments are to be expected. Get feedback from close family and friends first. Get some time to yourself. Don’t overlook domestic chores.
18 | ADVERTISING wicklowvoice.ie October 8 2015
ADVERTISING | 19
October 8 2015 wicklowvoice.ie
ryan & brien bigger and BETTER than ever as stephen thomas joins the team
David Ryan and Stephen Thomas (also below) outside Ryan & Brien on the Boghall Road Advertorial Ryan and Brien are getting bigger and better. The team on the Boghall Road, Bray are delighted to welcome new member Stephen Thomas on board. “Stephen is a great addition to our team here and we couldn’t be happier to have him with us,” Eric Ryan told the Wicklow Voice. A Nissan specialist for 15 years, Stephen brings a wealth of knowledge and experience with him. For all your Nissan needs, Stephen’s your man and he is more than happy to assist you with any problems or queries you may have. As the winter months are setting in, it is vitally important that you ensure your car is prepared for whatever the Irish weather m a y throw our way. Ryan and Brien offer a comprehensive winter service to have your car ready for all weathers. Road safety experts are
warning people to have their tyres checked before the cold weather arrives as worn tyres are a leading cause of accidents during the winter season. Ryan and Brien can also service your air conditioning so it will be in top condition to clear fog from your windscreen guaranteeing you a clear view of the road ahead.
Specialists in both German and French cars, Ryan and Brien have top of the range diagnostic equipment on site allowing them to detect a range of mechanical and electrical faults. If your car is due for its
NCT, bring it to the team for a full pre-NCT check and repairs including an engine decarboniser and suspension tester. Ryan and Brien are the only non-franchised garage to offer a rolling road brake tester as is used at the NCT centre. With the rolling road, they can ensure that your car stops in line and safely. This test is crucial for your own safety and the safety of those around you because the ability to stop quickly is essential for road safety. If you are in the market for a new car, then check out the great value of top quality cars on offer at Ryan and Brien with Ryan’s Auto Sales. Ryan’s Auto Sales specialise in Suzuki and top of the line low-milage vehicles from a variety of makes and models. There is something to suit every budget but be sure to pay them a visit today before someone snaps up your dream car.
Selection of Used Cars C4 Picasso, 2013, Platinum model, 7 seater, ...............................................€19,500 Suzuki Aldo, 2010, 1 litre, .............................................................................€6,250 Suzuki Swift, 2013, automatic, 1.2 litre, ......................................................€12,950 Suzuki Swift, 2011, 1.3 diesel, ....................................................................€10,500 Honda Jazz, 2008, automatic, ........................................................................€7,500 Honda Jazz, 2009, automatic, ........................................................................€8,500 Suzuki SX4, 2008, automatic, ........................................................................€8,500 Renault Scenic, 2008, 1.4 litre, ......................................................................€5,250 Toyota Avensis, 2008, D4D Terra model, 2 litre, sat nav, ............................€8,950 Peugeot 3008, 2011, automatic, ...................................................................€14,950 Renault Clio, 2011, 1.5 diesel, sat nav, ........................................................€11,950 Fiat Punto Evo, 2010, .....................................................................................€8,950 Honda CRV, 2004, .........................................................................................€2,500 Citreon C4 vtr+, 2012, .................................................................................€14,950 Nissan Micra, 2009, automatic, .....................................................................€7,500
We Care For Your Car and Your Pocket No 1 for Fast Friendly Service in Sales & Repairs With the lastest diagnostic equipment in technology & a car to suit everyones budget Ryan & Brien Ltd. are your one stop motoring specialists.
20 | SPECIAL REPORT wicklowvoice.ie October 8 2015
fix it for the fes Did someone say the Yes we know it’s only October but if you want to get those pesky jobs done before Christmas, you need to start thinking now ... Here’s a few tips: 1. Take a holistic approach Before jumping into a renovation project, think about what you want to achieve. 2. Enlist help Under the new building regulations, a registered architect, building surveyor or chartered engineer is required to act as a registered certifier for construction work that extends to more
than 40sq m. 3. Take your time with design While it may be tempting to skip on professional fees, an architect will also be able to give you a good estimate of cost. 4. Check planning permissions If your renovation project includes an extension of more than 40sq m, you will need to apply for planning permission. 5. Secure financing Some banks have announced funds to provide loans or mortgage top-ups to people who want to carry out renovation work. 6. Take advantage of incentives Homeowners may claim up to €4,050 in tax relief on renovations thanks to the Government’s new Home Renovation Initiative.
Buying? Selling? Contact one of our team today e: info@ wicklowvoice.ie w: www. wicklowvoice.ie t: 01 901 5565
October 8 2015 wicklowvoice.ie
stivities! ‘c’ word 7. Include the detail Include as much detail as possible when you go to tender so you can easily compare quotes. A detailed tender will help you control costs. 8. Approach a selection of builders When sourcing builders, get a mix of recommendations: a couple from your architect, a couple from your surveyor and a couple from friends. 9. Make sure your builder is compliant Currently anyone can set up as a builder, so it can be difficult to know if they’re reputable. 10. Be safe and be covered If you’re using an architect, surveyor or engineer, they should have their own professional indemnity insurance. Builders should be covered for public liability.
SPECIAL REPORT| 21
22 | SPORT
wicklowvoice.ie October 8 2015
will take place on October 8 in the Parkview Hotel, Newtownmountkennedy at 5pm. It would be great to see representatives from as many schools as possible in attendance. This is the place to share your views and make an impact on gaelic games in the schools in your area. New members always welcome.
sport in brief An Tochar A very busy week ahead at the club as the season draws to a close with games in Pairc an Tochar every night this week. The U10 boys and girls mixed internal league will be on the training pitch on October 8. On October 9, the U12 boys league with Rathnew, Eire Og and Ashford will be held. Congrats to Eddie and Suzanne Kavanagh on their new arrival. Failte mór roimh baby Elliot Kavanagh. The club extends sympathies to the Byrne family, Tomariland on the death of Ena Byrne. Ar dheis De go raibh a anam.
Shankill GAA
Arklow Geraldines Details of AGB AGM’s for Executive, the Men and the Juveniles are as follows: Juvenile Boys AGM will be held on October 13 at 7.30pm in Gaelcholáiste na Mara. Mens AGM will be held on October 13 at 8.30pm in Gaelcholáiste na Mara. The Executive Committee AGM will be held on November 18 in Gaelcholáiste na Mara at 8pm. Nominations and Motions for 2016 to be returned to An Rúnaí (Séamus O’Duinn) not later than October 30. Forms will be posted on the website. All members, parents and supporters are invited to attend. All end of year reports are now due in for all teams. If you haven’t been contacted about submitting your report yet or are unsure about what is required please contact Mary asap at arklowgaa@gmail.com. The U14 Girls Div3 Shield Final against Clann na nGael from Enniskerry will take place
Some of the action that took place at Day Two of the Allianz Cumann na mBunscol Boys Hurling Blitz at Bray Emmets GAA club on September 30. See full story below. on October 10 in Ballinakill at 1pm. The U14A Girls Championship Final against St. Pats will be held in Ballinakill on October 10 at 3.30pm. The Minor Men A Championship Final against Blessington takes place on October 11 in Aughrim at 12.30pm.
Next week’s jackpot is €10,475. Tickets and are on sale in the club shop on match days or you can play the Bray Wanderers Lotto online at www.braywanderers.com. Bray Wanderers are away to Derry City on October 9 in the Premier division. Kick off at the Brandywell is 7.45pm.
Bray Wanderers
Cumann na mBunscol
There was no Lotto jackpot winner on October 4. Numbers drawn were 11, 12, 13 and 17. €30 lucky dip winners were Miriam Duffy c/o Supporters Club, Wally and Bernie c/o Supporters Club, Paul Hunt c/o Bray Lakers, Davie Fitchet c/o Bray Lakers, Kim McCormack c/o V. Walsh.
Bray Emmets GAA club hosted Day Two of the Allianz Cumann na mBunscol Boy’s Hurling Blitz on September 30. It was a glorious sunny day with nine teams in total participating in the blitz. Across all the games a wide range of talent and sportsmanship was displayed by
these skillful young players. There was some excellent scores taken and tremendous teamwork on show. Scoil Chualann were victorious in Division 1 but they were pushed closely by St.Cronan’s, Kilcoole Primary and St.Patricks, Wicklow Town. Glenealy NS were the winners of Division 2 after overcoming the tough challenges of Rathdrum BNS, St Fergals, Newtownmountkennedy Primary and St. Brigids, Greystones. Allianz Cumann na mBunscol thanks all schools for their cooperation in the Blitz and look forward to the next one. Finally, a big thank you to our referees on the day and to Bray Emmets for hosting the Blitz. There are workshops being offered to schools from Leinster
GAA and Allianz Cumann na mBunscol Laighean that offer the basics of hurling and gaelic football. These workshops cover how elements of the PE Curriculum can be covered through gaelic games. These workshops need a minimum of ten teachers but small schools can come together should they be interested. If interested please contact the GDA Officer for your area. North Wicklow Games Development Administrator Garrett Doyle 083 4357460. South Wicklow Games Development Administrator Leighton Glynn 083 3645136. West Wicklow Games Development Administrator Paul Garrigan 083 4366801. The Allianz Cumann na mBunscol, Cill Mhantáin AGM
Men’s adult football teams lost their last league match against Na Gael Oga and are taking a short break before training resumes in preparation for the new season. New players always welcome contact Kevin 086 8449902. There were no juvenile matches over the weekend but the Academy was in full swing as it will be over the entire winter. Training for the boys U12 and girls U9 and 11 years is in the Castle on Saturday morning at 10am when there is no match. The Wednesday night training is in the process of moving indoors from this week so please check with your team manager for details. Juvenile Academy sponsored by O’Donnell’s Pharmacy Shankill is in action every Saturday morning in Shanganagh Castle at 10am 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.
sport| 23
October 8 2015 wicklowvoice.ie
insideback
with Brian Quigley
Emmets erupt as Wanderers wane October 4 was a day of mixed fortunes for Bray Emmets and Bray Wanderers. On a very special and memorable sporting day for the town, GAA side Emmets were in the Wicklow Senior Hurling Championship final in Aughrim and soccer outfit Wanderers were hosting Cork City in the semi-final of the Irish Daily Mail FAI Senior Cup. The matches more or less overlapped, with the soccer on at two and the hurling at two thirty, unfortunately preventing attendance at both. Those who elected to travel to Aughrim were rewarded with a fine Bray Emmets victory, by 1-18 to 1-9 over Carnew Emmets, giving Bray their second successive Wicklow Senior Hurling Championship title. Back at the Carlisle Grounds, Bray Wanderers put up a brave display against the high-flying Leesiders, holding out for an hour before Danny Morrissey fired home the only goal of the
“
The matches overlapped, with the soccer at two and the hurling at two thirty Bray Captain Mikey Lee kisses the cup as County Chairman Martin Coleman looks on after the Senior Hurling Championship final. Pic. Yvette O’Beirne game. The ground was packed and the atmosphere was great, as both sides played some good football and acquitted themselves well in a game that was shown live on RTE television. Wanderers almost forced a replay, with a late strike from
Emeka Onwubiko producing a fine save from Mark McNulty. After the game at the Carlsile Grounds a large contingent of both sets of fans gathered together in Bray seafront’s pubs to watch the Ireland v Italy rugby game, in which Ireland just did enough to get by a
stubborn Italy side by 16-9. This put in the time nicely until the arrival of the victorious Bray Emmets side at the bandstand for the homecoming celebrations! The Ireland win in the rugby capped off a weekend which had seen Greystones
triumph in the All ireland Rugby League Division 2B on October 3, the Seagulls beating Seapoint 21-10 at Dr Hickey Park. Leinster, coached by Newtown’s Leo Cullen, were also victorious, beating Newport Gwent Dragons at the RDS by 37-13 in the Guinness
Pro 12, a result all the more pleasing given that the Leinster squad is depleted significantly due to the Rugby World Cup. Finally, it would be remiss not to mention Greystones golfer Paul Dunne. The 22-year old, who thrilled crowds at The Open this summer, was making his professional debut after his crucial role in the winning Walker Cup side. Competing in the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship at St Andrews and Carnoustie, Dunne finsihed tied nineteenth, on the same score of 12 under par as Shane Lowry and Graeme McDowell. Just to put this into perspective, Dunne finished above Ernie Els and Padraig Harrington didn’t even make the cut. Dunne was actually in the lead at the end of day one, where his eight under round of 64 included a hole-in-one at the 205-yard fifteenth. This man is destined for great things, make no mistake!
24 | ADVERTISING
wicklowvoice.ie October 8 2015
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一伀圀 伀一䰀夀
䤀匀䄀䈀䔀䰀䰀䔀 䜀氀漀戀攀 刀攀琀愀椀氀 倀愀爀欀Ⰰ 一愀愀猀Ⰰ 䌀漀⸀ 䬀椀氀搀愀爀攀 吀㨀 㐀㔀ⴀ㠀㠀㐀㜀㈀㈀⸀
匀䴀䄀䰀䰀 䌀伀刀一䔀刀 䜀刀伀唀倀 㐀 倀䤀䔀䌀䔀
倀 䘀刀䔀䔀 倀䄀刀䬀䤀一䜀
䔀娀 䰀䤀嘀䤀一䜀 䘀唀刀一䤀吀唀刀䔀 ☀ 䤀一吀䔀刀䤀伀刀匀
갠㐀㤀㤀 匀䄀嘀䔀 갠㌀