Northwest Express March 2014 by northwest express

March 2014 Issue 3 - Volume 15

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Fewer births in Sligo than rest of the west GP’s 36th Annual Seminar B

IRTHS IN Sligo Regional Hospital are the lowest in the north west and western hospital group. The findings were contained in a recent survey of the midwifery working force which was published by the Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation last week. The figures for births at hospitals in the western group show: Sligo Regional Hospital. 1660 births Mayo General Hospital. 1785 births Letterkenny General Hospital. 1881 births Portuncula Hospital, Ballinasloe. 2055 births Galway University Hospital 3377 births

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Pictured at the recent Sligo General Practitioners Society 36th Anuual Seminar are Jimmy and Mary Devins, Marie Hegarty, Catherine Collins and Donal Hegarty

These figures emerge at a time when maternity services nationwide are under review, ahead of a new national strategy. It emerged this month that midwife staffing levels at Letterkenny are way off the international 'best practice' and are much worse than Sligo, Mayo or Galway. Those details are also contained in the INMO survey on the midwife workforce. The ratio of midwife/births in Sligo Regional is 1:36 as against a recommended ratio in UK of one nurse for every 29.5 births. Both Letterkenny and Galway University Hospital have ratios of 1:41. Portuncula achieved a ratio of 1:38, while Mayo General in Castlebar comes closest in the west region to the UK standard with one nurse for every 32 births. At present eighteen midwifery posts remain unfilled at Letterkenny, while the figure at Sligo Regional is ten posts not filled.

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news

Leitrim native charged with murder

A 20-year-old Leitrim native has been charged with the murder of an Offaly man late last year. Matthew Gralton, with an address at Mount Prospect, Roscommon, was charged with the murder of Christy Daly at Bog Lane, Kilbride, Clara on December 29, 2013, last week. Mr Gralton is the younger brother of Ray Gralton (22) who was charged with the murder of 28-yearold mother of two, Sara Staunton in Mayo Abbey, Balla on December 14, 2013. Sergeant Caroline Lyng told the court sitting in Portlaoise that Matthew Gralton made no reply when the charge was made to him. He was remanded in custody to Cloverhill Prison to appear again at a sitting of the District Court on March 5. Mr Gralton is the second man to be charged in connection with the murder of Mr. Daly. 23-year-old Ross Allen of Kilmonaghan Lodge, Clara, Co Offaly is accused of murdering Christy Daly (47) at Kilbride in Clara on December 29, 2013. A father of six, Mr Daly was shot eight times in the chest and the arm almost a week before his body was found in the rural area. His body was discovered sitting upright in a six-foot drain on a bog lane, near where he had been living in a caravan since his release from the Midlands jail in Portlaoise on December 7 last.

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Storm repairs at expense of vital road works

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Eye exams essential to detect glaucoma

HEN it comes to funding for storm damage repairs it looks like it’s a question of robbing Peter to pay Paul as it now appears that repairs to beaches, waterways and coastal towns and villages will be done at the expense of some vital work on some of the country's deadliest accident blackspots. While there has been much publicity given to the storm damage it has now been learnt that due to this commitment some of the cash which might have been used to improve a number of pot-holed roads and dangerous bends is no longer available. It will be used up as part of a multimillion euro repair package following the winter flooding which was the worst in years. While it is unclear if Mayo or Sligo will be impacted a number of road repair projects in Donegal and Roscommon have now been postponed indefinitely. Other counties affected will be Cavan, Kerry, Kilkenny, Laois, Limerick,

Tipperary, Waterford, Westmeath, and Wicklow. We have also learnt that two years after a major plan to carry out crucial road improvements in 60 locations only 31 have been completed. At that time Leo Varadkar, Minister for Transport, announced he was making €100m. available for the programme. In fairness, Mr Varadkar said there was finance earmarked to fund half the required projects – but the other half would only go ahead if additional monies became available. However, it has now emerged that repair work on 29 "blackspots'' has been put on the long finger because of the depletion in funds. It is understood the National Roads Authority has been told the estimated €100m needed to carry out the next phase of the work is now not available. It is also ironic that Mr. Varadkar, in his budget speech, said his priority in 2014 would be maintenance and repair of local, regional and national roads.

Community numbed as second tragedy hits Sligo family THE community of West Sligo is still reeling after the tragic death of local farmer Fergus Feeney (50) in a traffic accident at Corballa, near Ballina, last week. It is particularly poignant since it is less than a year since his son, Gary, died instantly after being struck by an 800kg pipe in a building site accident in New York. Gardai were still investigating the accident at the weekend. Gary and his new wife of six months Kelly had been living near Boston when the tragedy happened on a building project being run by Gary’s uncles. Family and friends were at the week ending attempting to comfort Mr Feeney’s wife, Norma, and daughters Orla and Andrea and sons Stephen and Owen. Garda forensic investigators closed

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all roads leading to the crash to carry out an examination of the scene. Fergus Feeney, died when his 4x4 vehicle left the road and collided with an embankment at Corballa, Co Sligo, off the main Sligo to Ballina Road around 1am. It is understood Mr Feeney suffered a heart attack prior to the incident. The scene of yesterday's crash on the L6606 was just a few hundred metres from where Mr Feeney grew up. He was driving the 15km journey home to Templeboy after attending a wake. Mr. Feeney’s brother, Blair, Feeney, a well-known Dromore-West businessman, was selected recently as a Fine Gael candidate in the forthcoming May local elections.

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Eye doctors are reminding people that the only way the serious eye disease, glaucoma, can be detected is through routine eye examinations. An estimated 3% of Irish people over the age of 50 have glaucoma. If caught early enough, the condition can be treated, however it is usually symptomless in its early stages. At a late stage, it becomes irreversible, resulting in vision loss and blindness. "The importance of having a regular routine eye exam to help prevent avoidable glaucoma-related vision loss cannot be over-emphasised. With early diagnosis and careful regular observation and treatment, damage can usually be kept to a minimum, and good vision can be enjoyed indefinitely," said Dr Aoife Doyle, a consultant ophthalmic surgeon and glaucoma specialist at the Royal Victoria Eye and Ear Hospital in Dublin. She noted that with glaucoma, vision loss is gradual, so those affected are often unaware they have a problem ‘until their sight has been compromised'. "It's crucial that people remember that once vision is lost to glaucoma, it cannot be restored,' she commented. The best way to detect glaucoma is through routine eye examinations. The test to detect it is non-invasive and provides a result immediately. Dr Doyle made her comments to coincide with World Glaucoma Week, which runs until March 15. She noted that those most at risk from the condition are people over the age of 60, those with a family history of the disease and individuals of Hispanic and African descent.

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Northwest Express March, 2014

Crean Kitchens will transform your home Y

our kitchen. The heart of your home. The hub. Where family and friends gather. Where it all gets done: cooking, entertaining, conversation, maths homework. It should be the most inviting room in your home. To us, every kitchen is as individual as its owner and the home it forms the heart of. Whatever lifestyle revolves around your kitchen, making it a place you want to spend your time is an exciting venture. Let Crean Kitchens help you to transform the room with a complete makeover , or make smaller changes to update your kitchen with a new look. We at Crean kitchens let our products and workmanship do the talking. We are not salespeople, we are kitchen people therefore we will guide you through the process , designing your kitchen to suit your needs. We will provide you with a 3D photo image of what your kitchen will look like, and a no obligation quote. We can look after the complete project for you

from removing your existing kitchen to the electrics, plumbing and tiling to ensure the disruption is to a minimum. We template and install our own granite, quartz and solid wood worktops so we are responsible for your kitchen from beginning to final clean up. All our kitchens are manufactured and installed to the most exacting of standards by our team of craftsmen. We manufacture our own carcasses using solid 18mm backs ensuring they are the strongest on the market. By combining the latest in new technology with the finest in traditional methods, they ensure that all our customers are satisfied customers. From our own workshop we can make a radiator cover or dining table to match your kitchen ensuring attention to detail. With our kitchens supplied and fitted complete with sink, tap, soft close systems choice of finishes from â&#x201A;Ź2290 and Wardrobes from â&#x201A;Ź490 why wait??

Northwest Express March, 2014

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Do You Have any news or views for us? email us: info@theexpress.ie

Rossinver’s McMorrow through to the live show R

ossinver’s singer songwriter Craig McMorrow made it through the battle and into the finals on RTE’s the Voice on Sunday night. Craig went up against his friend Christopher Stoodley from Tipperary, both from Team Kian. They sang “Apologize” by One Republic and a powerful performance by Craig meant that Kian picked him to go through to the live shows. Having played and busked together all over the county the pair are good friends and the pressure was on when mentor Kian Egan warned them “don’t fall out about it!” The audience at home heard how 28 year old Craig returned home from England after suffering serious injuries in a car accident. He returned home to Rossinver to live with his parents after suffering a dislocated his hip and fractured pelvis. Craig McMorrow will perform at The Voice live show in the Helix on March 23. Craig told the local press: “I will be looking for everyone to vote for me to keep my dream alive and keep me singing on that stage every week. I want to thank everybody for all the support I have received, it has been amazing. Phelim Gurn of Gurns bar in Manorhamilton has been amazing along with MacManus pharmacy and EJs Menswear who have been backing me all the way.” There were big celebrations in Gurns Bar, Manorhamilton with the McMorrow family and fans on Sunday night.

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Claire, Craig, Romai and Pat Mc Morrow in celebratory mood as Craig gets a step closer to the Voice of Ireland Final

Garda appeal after disappearance of Bundoran woman Gardai in Bundoran, Co Donegal, are seeking the assistance of the public in tracing the whereabouts of Siobhan McGread (51) missing from Bundoran. Siobhan was last seen at approximately 6.30 pm on February 19 on Rougey Walk, Bundoran. She is described as about 5’3” tall, with dark grey hair and blue eyes. When last seen she was wearing a blue tracksuit and white runners. Gardai in Bundoran are appealing for members of the public who may

have seen Siobhan to contact them on 071 984 1203, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111 or any Garda station.

Farmers facing €40m funding loss under CAP deal THE new CAP agreement will mean that €40m mill be taken out of Mayo, farmers were informed at a meeting in Swinford last week. Branding the CAP proposals as ‘unfair’, Eamon Ó Cuív, the Fianna Fáil spokesperson on agriculture, told farmers the deal is not signed off on yet, as most believe, and Ireland has until next August to petition for changes. Deputy Ó Cuív was critical of the role the IFA has played in the CAP negotiations and he called on farmers to ‘concentrate’ minds in the organisation by withdrawing payments made by them to the IFA when they sell stock at marts and to the factories. Deputy Ó Cuív went through a detailed policy paper proposed by his party on the CAP, central to which was the debate of historic payments versus current productivity payments. Under a single farm payment scheme based on how productive a farmer is there would be winners and losers but

TOTAL ACCESS

it was, he said, a fairer system than one based on random grant figures from 15 years ago. Under the Fianna Fáil proposal, he said, at least 85 per cent of farmers would be better off than they will be under Minister Simon Coveney’s proposals. On the new GLAS scheme, Deputy Ó Cuív pointed out that this is not going to be what REPS was. The maximum payment is €5,000 and the scheme involves aspects such as online courses and the cash cow that was REPS is now gone. Said Deputy Ó Cuív: “We need a national debate and farmers should be asked whose proposals do they want. “We have until the end of July to have this debate. “The issue is what is the fairest way of distributing the money? “Farmers should be asked rather than being told this is a fait accompli.” The chairman of the Farm Family Rights Group, Donie Shine, accused Taoiseach Enda Kenny of turning his back on

rural Ireland, which is being decimated, adding that the IFA, to a certain degree, had also turned their backs on farmers. IFA officer Roy O’Brien said the FF policy document was similar to that of the IFA’s but one point he could not agree on was taking €200 million from pillar II and putting it into pillar I. The IFA had lobbied on behalf of everyone - big, small and indifferent. What he had explained to the meeting was the position as it stands at government level. Mayo IFA chairman Padraig Joyce said if regionalisation had been introduced, as the Commissioner wanted, then average payments in the west would be very small. The IFA had worked hard and it was, he said, important to hold the money that’s in the west. Michael Smyth, a FF election candidate for the Ballina/ Swinford area, chaired the meeting and highlighted issues farmers are deeply concerned about, including red

line mapping, retrospective penalties, delayed payments, the fears people have in lodging appeals, the need for a farmers’ charter of rights and a bond to protect their interests where consultants make mistakes that the farmer ultimately ends up paying for.

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re you looking to take a trip to Galway? Look no further than the Forster Court Hotel! Located in the heart of the city, just off Eyre Square and two minutes walk from the bus and train stations, we provide the ideal location from which to explore all that Galway City and County have to offer.

Boasting fifty comfortable and inviting bedrooms, the Hotel offers everything you would expect from a modern, City centre property. Whether you are in Galway on business or pleasure, the Forster Court Hotel gives you style, luxury and personal service at a great price. All guest bedrooms are en-suite and have been decorated to the highest standard. Rooms are non-smoking and equipped with everything you require for a comfortable and enjoyable stay

We are delighted to welcome both individuals and groups and can offer a tailor-made package to suit your requirements. Our fantastic value Golden Years packages include Tea and Scones on arrival, a sumptuous three course meal in Elwoods Restaurant each evening and a full Irish breakfast to set you up for the day. We can also provide a “Meet & Greet” service at the bus or train station on request. There are a number of activities and places of interest in the local area including; Galway Cathedral, Nun’s Island and the Glaway Crystal factory, or why not take a day trip to the Aran Islands, Connemara, Kylemore Abbey or the Cliffs of Moher while you are here? We would be delighted to arrange any of these on your behalf. Golden Years packages are available from Sunday to Thursday. For more information call us now on 091 564 111 and quote “North West Express” or check out our website at www.forstercourthotel.com

Northwest Express March, 2014

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Mayo and Sligo farmers join in protest at beef prices

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Farmers from Mayo and Sligo protest against the beef cuts outside Department of Agriculture buildings in Dublin on Tuesday last. Source: Sam Boal/Photocall Ireland

UNDREDS of beef farmers from Mayo and Sligo joined the thousands who protested outside the Department of Agriculture buildings in Dublin last week over the poor beef prices they are getting at present. Many of them have stated that there's no point in continuing to produce cattle if they're not getting a reasonable price for them and there has been a call to encourage more live exports of cattle to Britain to boost prices. The Irish Farmers' Association (IFA) warned that prices have collapsed this spring and are €200 to €300 lower per animal than last year. IFA President Eddie Downey, addressing the protest, said there was no point in talking about adherence to a 2020 agenda and asking his members to increase beef production when the market at present is unable to handle present production levels. Mr. Downey said Simon Coveney’s Food Harvest 2020 plan is “failing beef farmers”, who face losses up to €175 million this year if prices are not restored. “The minister must reject the factory cuts and specification changes and act immediately to address labelling and live export issues that are curtailing competition

and the movement of stock to our key markets, including Northern Ireland and the UK,” he told the crowds. “The sector needs stability and confidence to be restored without any further delay”. “Some bull beef finishers are at their wits end, unable to get cattle killed. When they do sell them, they are facing price cuts of 50c/kg plus, ranging from €200 to €300 per head. These farmers are facing very real and very substantial financial losses this spring. Local farmer Couser Petrie, from Ballina, said prices were down 50 cent a kilo this year, and there would be no point in handing his farm on to his daughter to continue farming suckler cattle unless they improved. "It was never as bad on price as it is now with expenses as high as they are, I cannot make a living on it," he said. Tommy Robinson, Chairman, Ardagh IFA (Mayo), speaking to North West Express, said cattle are now worth even less than they were last Autumn after the expense of the Winter feeding. Farmers can’t continue to absorb losses like this and there is the imminent danger of some farmers throwing in the towel unless some changes are introduced. A greater degree of fairness and

transparency must be introduced to the beef industry. There is a perception that the factories are profiting at the expense of the farmer. The beef factories take full advantage of the 30-month rule with no apparent advantage to the consumer, he said. He totally concurs with Eddie Downey that we can’t adhere to the 2020 agenda unless there are some changes. IFA Livestock Committee chairman Henry Burns said that this time last year at the height of the horsemeat scandal Minister Coveney went on TV every night of the week to defend the factories, but we won’t have a meat industry without farmers. “A year ago he kept the factories in business. Now he needs to show his support for farmers”, he said. Following the protest, Mr. Cormac Healy from Meat Industry Ireland said that significant volumes of weekly production remain in stock due to lack of sales opportunities. Mr. Leddy had called on Mr. Coveney to become an advocate for live export. This is essential to keep competition in the market, he said, and to bring volumes of finished cattle back to a level that factories can handle.

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Northwest Express March, 2014

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Northwest Express March, 2014

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HEADSTONES

Sligo Girl Susan Vickers is a big hit at Fashion launch S

usan Vickers from Rosses Point in Sligo who is juggling her time in Dublin between working in public relations and modelling looked sparkling this week when she joined top model Vogue Williams McFadden (wife of Brian McFadden) to launch Boohoo.com's Spring Summer 14 collection at Drury Buildings in Drury Street,Dublin. Vogue and Sligo girl Susan showcased a selection of the hundreds of high fashion looks the boohoo.com site has to offer. The collections feature catwalk to closest looks with a super sleek high fashion edge.

The Harlequin Hotel Castlebar

Far Right: Susan Vickers

Shock as 25 welfare offices in Mayo to close

day). Early last week the Government made the shock announcement that 25 social welfare offices in Mayo will close on Friday, March 15th. The services will be centralised to five locations. These five centres will be in Ballina, Castlebar, Westport, Achill and Belmullet. A social welfare office in Ballinrobe has been saved. East Mayo and most of south Mayo will be left completely without social welfare offices after the closures. The five social welfare offices that are to close are in Charlestown, Claremorris, Cong, Kiltimagh and Swinford, with all users of these offices now to be sent to either Ballina or Castlebar. In the

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wenty-five welfare offices in Mayo will close next week, the Government announced yesterday (Mon-

M. Carney, Frenchpark

case of Charlestown, users there face a 54-mile round trip from the town to Ballina, further still if they are living on the south or east side of the town. “The fact is they have pulled a cloak over east and south Mayo,” Fianna Fáil TD Dara Calleary said. “Add in court closures, closure of rural schools and east and south Mayo is doing very poorly. You would wonder what they did to this government,” he said. “The Minister (for Social Protection Joan Burton) has said it [the closures] is part of a rationalisation programme and some of these centres were only open one hour a day, and that now, in the case of Ballina and Castlebar, they will have a five day a week service. “However, people who tend to need to speak to a Community Welfare Officer in particular are often emergency situa-

tions, and we don’t have the public transport in Mayo that people making these decisions seem to think we do,” said Deputy Calleary. “The Government talks about revitalising rural Ireland and then they do something like this. You’d have to wonder. They clearly haven’t looked at a map of Mayo. “If it was up to me, I would have a difficulty in taking services away from rural communities at all, but if it had to happen, I would ensure there was at least an office in east and south Mayo with regular opening hours,” he said. The social welfare offices that are closing in Charlestown, Claremorris, Cong, Kiltimagh and Swinford are each open two days a week in the morning, with the exception of Cong which is open just once a week. In a letter to Deputy Calleary Eoin Brown, the Divisional Manager for the western region of the Department of Social Protection, said the centralisation of services was linked to providing greater services in the Pathways to Work Programme at central Intreo offices like the one opened by An Taoiseach Enda Kenny at Davitt House, Castlebar last month. He said if a person is unable to travel to a new clinic, a phone number will be provided or, if required, a staff member would visit the person’s home.

he Harlequin Hotel, Castlebar's only 4 Star hotel is located in the Town centre of Castlebar, Co Mayo. The Harlequin is located just away from the hustle and bustle of the Town Centre, yet, close enough to enjoy browsing around the boutiques and brand shops like Swamp, Next and New Look as well as, pubs and cafes. Surrounded by all this style and luxury, it's no wonder guests seem a little reluctant to leave and that is why the Harlequin Hotel was the 2012 & 2013 Winner on Trip Advisor for one of Trendiest and Luxurious Hotels in Ireland. At The Harlequin Hotel all of our Rooms are equipped with the usual 4 Star amenities, and with 3 very different colour schemes, running through-out; our Guest Rooms are purposely designed, with your comfort in Mind. Start your Hen party here with a champagne reception on arrival, followed by Dinner in the Harlequin Restaurant, then a complimentary cocktail on us, its going to be a really great…..late night followed by a late check at 1.00 the next day. So, check out our Hen packages from €89 pps, with groups over 12 the Hen stays free and if you would like to come on the Friday night then its €39 pps B&B. For more details call 094-9286200 or email sales@harlequin.ie

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Northwest Express March, 2014

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Ireland’s No.1 Taxi Network Arrives in Sligo H

ailo, the free smartphone app that puts customers’ just two taps away from a licensed vehicle, has now arrived in Sligo. Having experienced great success in Dublin, Cork, Galway and Limerick, Hailo has just announced its Nationwide rollout, meaning it will be available in 20 towns and cities across 15 Counties over the coming weeks. As such, commuters in Sligo can now also enjoy the benefits of being connected to Ireland’s largest taxi network, meaning wherever they are in the country, they can get a Hailo taxi at the tap of a screen.

users after the journey. There is also the added benefit of people being able to retrieve their lost property as the app features a call button, allowing the customer to ring their taxi driver. As Hailo is now

available Nationwide, users of the app can access a taxi wherever they are in the country. The app can be downloaded from the App store or Google play. Go to www.hailocab.com/ireland for more information.

Safety and Convenience Ensured for the Drivers and Passengers Getting a taxi in Sligo has never been so convenient or safe - with just two taps of a smartphone customers are paired with the nearest driver, resulting in shorter waiting times. Users can even watch the taxi arrive live via the app. Each journey is recorded and tracked with both the driver’s photo and roof sign number displayed on passenger phones, ensuring the highest levels of safety for the duration of their Hailo trip. Hailo customers can pay automatically with a credit or debit card, or using cash. There are no additional charges beyond the metre fare, no call out fees and receipts can be emailed to

Sligo Taxi Drivers Can Join the Nationwide Hailo Driver Network Ahead of Hailo’s arrival in Sligo, local drivers have already joined the Hailo network, giving them immediate access to over 430,000 passengers who have downloaded Hailo in Ireland. Hailo is seeking to grow its network of drivers in Sligo even further. All licensed taxi drivers are welcome to join Hailo at www.hailo.ie. Once registered, they can immediately avail of the driver benefits, which include: • Access to Ireland’s largest taxi network with almost half a million downloads of the passenger app • No sign up or base fees, just pay as you go • Fully trackable, safe jobs as drivers can see who they are picking up • Pick up jobs on the street within close proximity of their location • Accept credit and debit cards for all journeys, including those not ordered through the Hailo app, increasing safety and convenience for drivers. “Hailo enables Sligo drivers to generate further business and connect quickly to the nearest customer, ignificantly increasing productivity,” said Aidan McGowan, Sligo taxi driver. “I can now tap in to a network of over 430,000 Hailo app users and as there are no base fees to be paid, I need only pay for the jobs I take.” Sligo commuters who used the service will also receive €10 off their first Hailo fare.

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Hotel room prices remained stable in Sligo HOTEL prices in Sligo rose 1% to €83 per night from 2012 to 2013 according to the latest Hotels.com™ Hotel Price Index™ (HPI™). This modest increase in room rates means that Sligo still offers great value for money and visitors paid less there than in some of Ireland’s other popular tourist destinations such as Killarney (€106), Kilkenny (€97) and Dublin (€96). The Hotels.com Hotel Price Index (HPI) is a regular survey of hotel prices in major destinations around the world. The HPI is based on bookings made on Hotels.com and prices shown are those actually paid by customers (rather than advertised rates) in 2013. On a national level, it was a positive year for Irish tourism as Irish hotel prices

continued to recover in 2013. Overall, room rates were up 4% year-on-year to an average of €94 per night. Many factors can be accredited

with the continued recovery of Irish hotel prices in 2013, including the success of The Gathering nationwide, an abundance of festivals and concerts with top Irish and global artists and of course the many sporting events that took place in Ireland in 2013. With an average price of €106 per night, Killarney remains the Irish destination where visitors paid the most, up 4% year-on-year. As a key tourist destination with a strong supply of four- and five-star accommodation, Killarney’s prices have been maintained slightly above the national average. Dublin experienced the largest rise in room rates in 2013 with prices up 7% yearon-year to €96 per night, just slightly above the national average. A number of key

events helped bolster prices in the capital including Dublin playing host to the Heineken Cup final and two All-Ireland Hurling Finals due to a Clare vs. Cork replay. The return of the business and conferencing market to Dublin also helped keep prices robust. Galway’s prices fell 4% to €96 on average. Rates in the city have settled after the average in 2012 was lifted thanks to the city playing host to the final leg of the Volvo Ocean Race. Room rates in Cork rose 2% in 2013 to an average of €86. Prices in Limerick rose 2% in 2013 to an average of €68 per night. Despite this modest increase, Limerick remains Ireland most affordable destination, offering exceptional value to visitors both at home and abroad.

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Northwest Express March, 2014

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COMMERCIAL RANGE PRE REG COMMERCIALS 141 G VW Transporter 2.0TDI 140BHP 6Sp.....€27,500 141 G VW Transporter 2.0TDI 84BHP.............€22,500 141 G VW Crafter 136BHP Trendline Pack.......€31,500 141 G VW Amarok Highline 180BHP..............€42,000 141 G VW Caddy TDI....................................€15,200 141 G VW Golf TDI Van.....................€23,950 inc VAT 2010 VW Golf Van Comfortline..........€13,500 Inc VAT

FORD RANGE 2013 Ford Transit T260 Custom Van................€16,500 2012 Ford Transit T260..................................€14,500 2010 Ford Transit T260..................................€12,500 2009 Ford Transit T260....................................€9,500 2007 Ford Transit T280 ...................................€6,500 2006 Ford Transit T280....................................€4,500 2004 Ford Transit 350......................................€3,000

2013 MODELS 131 VW Amarok 2.0 TDI 180BHP Highline......€35,000 2013 VW Crafter 2.0TDI MWB.......................€27,500 2013 VW Transporter 2.0TDI LWB..................€22,500 2013 VW Caddy TDI......................................€15,000 2013 VW Caddy TDI 7 Seater Maxi Pass.........€27,800 2013 VW Tiguan 2.0TDI Sports Model...........€28,500

ISUZU RANGE 2005 Isuzu Trooper Dsl...........................€5,000 + VAT 2003 Isuzu Trooper Dsl...................................€3,500 1999 Isuzu Trooper 3.0 DSL..............................€1,500 1997 Isuzu Trooper (Tested)..............................€2,500

TRANSPORTER RANGE 2012 VW Transporter 2.0SWB........................€18,500 2012 VW Transporter 2.0TDI LWB 140BHP ............................................................€17,886 + VAT 2011 VW Transporter 2.0TDI LWB 140BHP ...........................................................€16,260 + VAT 2011 VW Transporter 2.0 DSL SWB................€17,500 2010 VW Transporter 2.5TDI 6Sp Extras.........€16,500 2010 VW Transporter 2.5TDI LWB 6 Speed.....€18,500 2009 VW Transporter 2.5TDI..........................€13,500 CADDY RANGE 2013 VW Caddy Maxi Life 7 Seater DSL.........€26,950 2013 VW Caddy Maxi Life 7 Seater A/T.........€29,500 2013 VW Caddy TDI......................................€15,000 2012 VW Caddy Van TDI Choice...................€13,500 2012 VW Caddy TDI 102BHP A/T...................€16,500 2011 VW Caddy Maxi Life 7 Seater DSL.........€22,500 2011 VW Caddy TDI.......................................€11,500 2010 VW Caddy TDI......................................€10,500 2009 VW Caddy TDI Maxi...............................€9,500 CRAFTER RANGE 2013 VW Crafter 3 tonne 2.0TDI €22,350 + VAT 2010 VW Crafter 3.5 LWB New Model €15,040 +VAT TOUAREG RANGE 2008 VW Touareg 2.5TDI Comm €12,500 2005 VW Touareg 2.5TDI DSG A/T €7,500 2004 VW Touareg 2.5TDI Passenger €6,000 MITSUBISHI RANGE 2014 Mitsubishi Pajero 3.2 DID LWB A/T Exect Model 5 Seater €43,000 + VAT 2014 Mitsubishi Pajero 3.2 Comm SWB €32,115 + VAT 2014 Mitsubishi Pajero 3.2 Comm LWB €34.500 + VAT 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander 2.2 Comm €25,500 + VAT 2014 Mitsubishi ASX 1.8 DSL Comm €22,250 + VAT 2014 Mitsubishi ASX 1.8 DSL Passenger €26,500 2014 Mitsubishi Lancer 1.8 Dsl €21,500 2014Mistubishi Space Star 1.0 5Dr €13,000 2013 Mitsubishi Outlander 2.2 DSL Comm Auto CITROEN RANGE 2010 Citroen Berlingo....................................€10,500 2008 Citroen Dispatch HDI 90BHP 3Seater.......€8,500 2007 Citroen Berlingo DSL...............................€5,000 2006 Citroen Xsara Picasso DSL.......................€7,000 2006 Citroen Berlingo......................................€4,000 2005 Citroen Berlingo DSL...............................€3,500 2005 Citroen Dispatch.....................................€4,500 2004 Citroen Berlingo DSL...............................€3,000 MERCEDES RANGE 2007 Mercedes 315 DSl...................................€8,500 2004 Mercedes Vito T/D..................................€4,500 2008 Mercedes Vito LWB A/T.................€4,500 + VAT TOYOTA RANGE 2011 Toyota Rav4 D4D 4x4 Passenger............€23,500 2008 Toyota Landcruiser 3.0TDI LWB..............€16,500 2004 Toyota Landcruiser LWB...........................€7,500 2002 Toyota Landcruiser LWB..........................€5,000

PEUGEOT RANGE 2008 Peugeot 1.9 HDI Expert...........................€7,500 2007 Peugeot Partner Dsl Van..........................€5,500 2005 Peugeot Partner DSL................................€3,500 2005 Peugeot Expert DSL.................................€4,500 2004 Peugeot Partner DSL................................€2,950 KIA RANGE 2009 Kia Soul 1.6TDI.....................................€11,500 2008 Kia Carnival DSL 7 Seater.......................€9,500 2007 Kia Sportage 2.0 DSL Comm -- Black........€5,000 2006 Kia Sorento DSL Com..............................€6,500 2005 Kia Sedona DSL 7 Seater.........................€7,500 OPEL RANGE 2008 Opel Vivaro DSL Com LWB......................€9,000 2008 Opel 1.3 DSL Van Extras..........................€7,500 2007 Opel Zafari 7 Seater Petrol......................€8,500 2006 Opel Vivaro Dsl Com..............................€6,500 2006 Opel Zafari 7 Seater Petrol......................€7,500 2006 Opel Astra Dsl Van..................................€4,500 2005 Opel Zafari 7 Seater DSL........................€6,500 SUZUKI RANGE 2008 Suzuki Grand Vitara Dsl Pass 4x4..........€13,000 2008 Suzuki SX4 1.6DSL 5DR..........................€8,500 2007 Suzuki Grand Vitara DSL Passenger........€11,500 2005 Suzuki Jimmy .........................................€3,500 2004 Suzuki Grand Vitara Passenger................€5,500 NISSAN RANGE 2011 Nissan Primaster 1.9 DSL LWB Extras......€12,500 2011 Nissan Qashqai 1.5DSL Passenger..........€19,500 2010 Nissan Juke 1.5DSL Extras......................€17,500 2010 Nissan Qashqai 1.5DSL.........................€16,500 2008 Nissan Navara SE Canapy......................€9,500 2006 Nissan Interstar 2.5 ................................€4,500 2006 Nissan Primaster 1.9DSL..........................€5,500 RENAULT RANGE 2011 Renault Master 35LWB H/R....................€13,500 2011 Renault Kangoo 1.5DSL...........................€8,500 2011 Renault Traffic 2.0 DSL...........................€12,500 2007 Renault Master 2.7 Pick up 5 Seater ........€4,500 2006 Renault Master........................................€5,500 2005 Renault Master DSL.................................€4,500 LANDROVER RANGE 2007 Landrover Discovery Comm.....................€9,500 2003 Landrover Discovery 3 Passenger.............€6,000 BUSES RANGE 2013 VW Shuttle 9 Seater Bus........................€39,500 2013 VW Touran TDI......................................€27,500 2013 VW Sharan 2.0DSL................................€37,500 2011 VW Sharan 2.0TDI................................€29,500 2011VW Caravelle 7 Seater Comfortline.........€38,500 2011 VW Shuttle 8 Seater...............................€29,500 2009 VW LT 2.5TDI 15 Seater.........................€27,500 2008 VW Touran 1.9TDI 7 Seater...................€10,500

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Northwest Express March, 2014

news

Sligo store ‘Allure’ scoops top prize at Wedding awards

Allure proprietor Lorraine McGowan with staff, Sarah Flynn and Kay Gramsch receiving the prestigious WeddingsOnline award copy

ligo shop, ‘Allure’ and their website www.allureonlineshop.com which offers beautiful designer accessories and gifts for all occasions and is situated in the Quayside shopping centre has been awarded the title of Best 'Bridal Jewellery and Accessory Designer of the Year’ for the second year in a row at the WeddingsOnline.ie 2014 Awards. The hotly anticipated awards were announced at a glamorous ceremony held at a gala dinner in the stylish surroundings of Clontarf Castle on Monday February 10, with the country’s finest wedding businesses and

services being awarded in 34 categories. Speaking about the award, Allure’s Lorraine McGowan commended her staff and customers for their loyal support. “Our Brides and weddings are a big part of our business and we are absolutely thrilled to be recognised by our customers in this way. Much of our business is developed from positive word-of-mouth recommendations, which is a testament to the quality of our products and service. I would like to thank our dedicated staff who excel at offering advice and support to brides, and a huge thanks to all our customers who took the time to nominate

us.” Since opening Allure has developed a reputation for being the go-to store for bridal jewellery, accessories and gifts. Allure has inspired hundreds of brides to create their perfect wedding look. In addition to their extensive range of Jewellery & Accessories from Ireland & Worldwide, Allure offer handmade jewellery made with swarovski crystal and pearls, stunning neck pieces, tiaras, hair accessories, earrings and bracelets in their bridal range. Their bespoke design service also ensures brides can create a custom-made piece to suit their wedding style. Allure also offers an extensive wedding accessory range including, bridal umbrellas, men's cufflinks, wedding candles, wedding guest books, ring cushions and pens, albums not to mention their topiary and rose trees rental and elegant aisle candelabra rental service. You can view the popular store’s website and online shop at www.allureonlineshop.com or on their facebook page. Over 31,000 brides and grooms nationwide voted for their top suppliers and venues in a wide range of categories, who were then judged by a panel of expert industry specialists, with decisions based on quality of work and a real wedding experience. “The annual weddingsonline Awards have become the industry standard, crucial in recognising the professionalism, achievements and excellent service given by the Irish wedding industry,” said Peter Bryans, MD of weddingsonline Ltd., speaking after the awards ceremony. “I know that all the participants, both nominees and winners alike, are proud and happy that their hard work and dedication has been acknowledged by subscribers to weddingsonline, and so they should be, as those are the votes that really matter.”

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Sligo man is new Chairman of Landscaping Association

Thomas Crummy of Thomas J Crummy Landscaping has been elected Chairman of the Association of Landscape Contractors of Ireland (ALCI). The ALCI was founded in 1971 as a representative body for the developing landscape sector and from its inception it has endeavored to improve quality and standards in the landscape industry in Ireland. It is the leading professional body for landscape contractors in Ireland with over 140 members. Ross Carew, Executive Secretary

of the ALCI commented: “Thomas’s long established reputation in the industry has been formally acknowledged by his peers when they elected him as Chairman of the ALCI. Thomas was instrumental in lobbying the Department of Finance to have landscaping included in the Home Renovation Incentive scheme prior to Budget 2013 which allows home owners a 13.5% VAT rebate for landscaping work carried out by tax-compliant landscape contractors, such as our ALCI members”.

Thomas is a native of Cloonloo in South Sligo and studied at local schools in Cloonloo and Boyle before attending Multyfarnham Agricultural College. He proceeded to qualify in Landscape & Amenity Horticulture at Reaseheath College, Cheshire in 1995, followed by an internship with Ohio State University and later, in 2010 travelled to Atami in Japan to do a further education course in Japanese Garden Art & Garden Construction. Thomas started Thomas J. Crummy Landscaping in 1998. The company’s services include landscape & garden design, garden construction and maintenance and it also operates a Sportsturf Management Division catering to GAA, Rugby, Soccer and Golf Clubs. It has received in excess of twenty national awards for its work including the Bord Bia Landscape Quality Award and was the first and only landscape contractor in the north-west region to achieve this Quality Award for excellence which it has retained since 2005. Additionally, in 2011 the company was awarded the highest industry accolade when it was named the Bord Bia “Landscape Business of the Year 2010-2011. The company is also ISO 9001:2008

Quality Management, ISO 14001:2004 Environmental Management and OHSAS 18001:2007 Health and Safety Management compliant. For more information on services provided by Thomas J Crummy Landscaping visit their website www.thomasjcrummy.com or call 071 9663086.

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Northwest Express March, 2014

news

Kieran Quinn’s Theme Nights at Velvet Rooms What is the theme for this month’s theme night? I chose ‘The Beatles’ for this month’s theme night; previous themes included Tom Waits and Paul Simonpoets of popular music. I try to vary the themes to keep all musicians and audience interested. How many of these nights will there be? I hope to put on 3-4 of these nights throughout the year.

By Valerie Scanlon

ligo pianist Kieran Quinn has announced a new series of themed music nights kicking off on Thursday 20th March in a new venue at the Velvet Room on Kempten Promenade. I spoke to Kieran about the theme nights. Kieran what exactly is the ‘Kieran Quinn’s Theme Nights’? The theme nights are a night

for local musicians to ‘Come Together’ and perform in various combinations. What musicians will be performing on the night? There will be 30-40 musicians performing including Sarah Crummy, Seamie McGowan and Niamh Fitzpatrick, there will also be a house band consisting of myself and other musicians, My fellow ‘Anything Goes’ band members will also be performing.

Can anyone join in on the night? No, this is not an Open Mic type of night; all musicians taking part are fully prepared and have rehearsed to ensure a high quality performance. What made you start doing the Theme Nights? The idea for these nights stemmed from a weekly gig I done in ‘Source’, I got to play with lots of different musicians and on different weeks and I liked the idea of getting them all together for

Thursday 13th March 11-2pm in Manorhamilton Branch Library Tuesday 11th March 11-2pm in Carrick-on-Shannon Branch Library

Abbott Volunteers from Sligo facility visit St. John's National School for Engineers' Week

one night to perform. Did you do these theme nights previously? Were they a success? Yes, this will be the 9th theme night the previous 8 took place in ‘Source’ and were a huge success, tickets regularly sold out in less than 24 hours. The Velvet Room’s capacity is bigger, hopefully meaning everybody who wants to see the show can. Anyone who has played at or attended a theme night knows they are hugely special occasions there is a great sense of community between the musicians and the audience. They are happy, inspiring, joyous and fun events and I look forward to continuing the legacy in the Velvet Room in the coming year. Tickets are €15 with canapés or €10 without and can be bought from Chapters Coffee House, Bridge Street or call 07191 32043 to book.

bbott Ireland’s diagnostic facility in Sligo supported Engineers’ Week Feb 9th – 15th. This week-long programme of nationwide events celebrated the world of engineering in Ireland with the aim of sparking enthusiasm about the engineering profession among school students. Employees from Abbott Sligo visited St. John’s National School where they demonstrated experiments, gave students an insight into being an engineer and made students aware of how engineering is used in everyday life. Picture (left to right): Nana Koranteng, St. John’s NS; Ciara Rushe, St. John’s NS; Rebecca Hally, St. John’s NS ; Ronan Richie, St. John’s NS; Janay Yolova, St. John’s NS; Jake McNiff, St. John’s N ; Anthony Fidgeon, St. John’s NS; Rob Elliott, Abbott; and Ger Hartnett, St. John’s NS.

Chartered Accountants Ireland 5k Run

hartered Accountants Northwest Society are hosting their Annual 5k RUN/WALK in Doorly Park Sligo in aid on the 12th April 2014. The society is delighted to announce Sligo Cancer Support Centre as their partner charity. Sligo Cancer Support Centre is a place of peace and hope where people with cancer and their families can access support, counselling, holistic therapies and healing workshops in a caring and tranquil environment in the North West of Ireland. Due to the increasing demand for cancer support services and the fact that all services provided are free of charge, having sufficient funding to cover costs is a daily challenge. All donations received by the service are used directly to support and care for with a cancer diagnosis. All proceeds from this event will be donated directly to Sligo Cancer Support Services. Entry fee is simply a minimum do-

nation of €10 and children under 12 are free. Sign up today: http://www.charteredaccountants.ie/charity-weekend2014/ To date this event has been very successful, however this year in particular is very special as this is the first year the event is in aid of local charity providing essential services in the Northwest of Ireland. The event is supported by ROM Sligo Fitness Centre and Sligo Athletics. On the day registration and t-shirt collection will take place in ROM at 1pm and the run/walk will start at 2pm at the entrance to Doorly Park. Sligo Atheltics club will be timing participants for those interested. Promised to be a fun day for all, live DJ and refreshments on the day. For regular updates follow us on: Facebook: Chartered Accountants Ireland – Northwest Society

March 2014 • €2.00 • Issue 17

IF IT’S HAPPENING IN SLIGO

THEN WE HAVE IT COVERED! Photos from the Hawkswell Hunt Ball, GP’s Seminar Vintners Ball, Mayors Ball Out and about in the Pubs plus much much more!

L L A N I W OU T N O

! S T N E G A S W E N D GO O

TIC S A T N A T F THE MODEL H G I L E TH K GARRY AT MAR

OPENING OF THE VINTAGE LOFT

SWELL SLIGO WE SPEAK TO AOIFE PORTER ISSN 2009-5422

Northwest Express March, 2014

Bitcoin: What The Heck Is It, And How Does It Work? What can you actually buy with bitcoins? A Pint in the Baggot Inn, a Tesla car, tickets and concessions for the Sacramento Kings, and anything you want from Overstock.com. Also, stolen credit card numbers, drugs, and pretty much anything else of questionable legality bought and sold online. It’s great for money laundering too, according to the FBI. How do you store and spend your bitcoins? Is there any actual physical money? Even though there are a handful of bitcoin ATMs in the world, bitcoin is not a physical currency. Spending takes place from one user’s virtual wallet to another user’s virtual wallet, via an exchange of public and private security keys. Physical bitcoins — which can look like coins or bills, or can be any other item — are storage devices for private keys. In one way, storing private keys in physical media is extremely secure; hackers can’t access the box under your bed via a virtual back door. On the other hand, storing private keys in physical media is as insecure as keeping cash on hand; thieves can

he world of finance and economics is pretty complicated as-is, and now there’s “digital money” in the mix making it even worse. Bitcoin is everywhere in the news lately, from hacks to hearings and everything in between. But there are a lot of questions about Bitcoin — starting with, what the heck is all this, anyway? And so, here is everything you wanted to know about Bitcoin, but didn’t actually want to ask your tech-loving, early-adopter friend. What is Bitcoin? Bitcoin is the world’s biggest cryptocurrency. It was introduced in 2009, and is the longest-standing, best-known, and most widelytraded cryptocurrency. Generally, Bitcoin with a capital B means the software and the system; bitcoin with a lowercase b means the actual money. A what? A cryptocurrency is digital money. It’s a virtual medium of exchange, not issued by, backed by, or tied to any particular nation or government. It’s the biggest… but there are others? Yup. The software that runs Bitcoin is open-source, and there are lots of other folks running with it, too. And of course, the internet being what it is, there are novelty versions, like the actually-popular dogecoin or the defunct Coinye West. If it’s not issued by a government, where does it come from and who keeps track of it? The acts of generating new bitcoins

and of tracking Bitcoin transactions go hand in hand, and both are accomplished through a process known as “mining.” This is where it starts to get a little complicated. Basically, mining occurs when a computer or a network of computers runs Bitcoin software. That software creates new entries in Bitcoin’s public record of transactions, called block chains. The math is complicated and hard to forge, so the block chain stays accurate. Because anyone can download and install the Bitcoin software for free, the payment processing and record-keeping for Bitcoin is done in a widely distributed way, rather than on one particular server. When block chains are created, so are new bitcoins — but there’s a hard limit to how many will ever exist. The system was designed to create more bitcoins at first, then to dwindle exponentially over time. The first set of block chains each created 50 bitcoins. The next set each created 25 bitcoins, and so on. New block chains are created roughly every 10 minutes no matter what; when more computers are actively mining, the program they’re running gets harder (and therefore slower) to compensate. The bitcoin FAQ estimates that the final bitcoin will be mined in the year 2140, bringing the permanent circulation to just under 21 million. (Currently, there are roughly 12.4 million bitcoins in the world.) How much is it worth? As of this writing, 1 bitcoin = approximately USD $693. However, the bitcoin exchange rate is intentionally highly flexible.

access the box under your bed via a literal back door. Or you could end up losing the external hard drive with your $5 million on it. Is this risky? It sounds kind of risky. There certainly is a lot of volatility in the bitcoin market. The exchange rate has shifted by over $90 this week alone. The government backing a standard currency — like, say, the US dollar — works hard to keep its money stable. We have the Central bank issuing monetary policy and acting as a central bank to keep the value of the euro from flying up and down like the stock market does. For the first three to four years of its life, bitcoin was actually fairly stable, as historical charts show. The price increased very gradually from roughly $0.05 per bitcoin to more like $5 per bitcoin, which is indeed a good rate of return for early investors. And that concept of “investors” is key. Bitcoin is a market full of speculators, and because it’s not tied to anyone’s monetary policy or oversight, it’s prone to boom and bust. Since the beginning of 2013, the value of bitcoin has jumped as high as $1116 and dropped to $539.

farming & equine

guide

focus on farming

Northwest Express March, 2014

Genpro Forestry enters the Private Forestry Sector G enpro Forestry Ltd based in County Roscommon has established itself to provide forest harvesting and round log timber marketing services to the private forestry sector. The management team behind the company has deep roots within the timber business and has tailored the company to cater for all sizes of private forestry plantations and

in particular plantations which have difficult access for timber removal. Genpro Forestry through forest harvesting aims not only to provide short term revenue to the owner but more importantly increase entire value of the crop at clearfell stage or through woodland improvement schemes. The company will arrange to meet with the owner or the Forest

Manager on site where Genpro Forestry will complete a detailed site assessment in which Genpro Forestry will outline a harvesting plan for either thinnings or clearfell, the expected volumes produced, the product types from sawlog, pallet, stake and pulp wood. The company will identify the markets relative to the forest site for each of the products and offer the owner a price per tonne for standing timber. On agreement, Genpro Forestry will enter into a contract with the forest owner or Forest Manager, complete a harvesting plan, carry out a risk assessment and comply with all Health and Safety requirements. All staff on site employed by the company are qualified in each of their respective roles. Prior to timber removal a docket box is put in place and the owner will receive a text message each time a load is removed. On completion of the harvesting operations the owner or Forest Manager will receive a complete harvesting report. If your forest is ready for thinning or clearfell, please contact Cecil Tivnan at 087 3659441 or email ctivnan@genpro.ie

GenPro Forestry Limited Forest Thinning, Clearfell & Timber Marketing

Cournameeltha, Boyle, Co. Roscommon â&#x20AC;˘ Tel: 087-3659441 â&#x20AC;˘ ctivnan@genpro.ie

Is your forest ready for thinning or clearfell? Is access to your forest a problem? If so please contact GenPro Forestry Ltd for a free consultation. We provide a complete comprehensive service from site assessment, harvesting, extraction and timber marketing followed by a harvesting report for your forest.

Northwest Express March, 2014

19 Stocking All Implements: Tanco Bale Shears, Bale Handlers,Buckets, Sprayers, Fertiliser Spreaders, Bale Splitters etc DON’T GO COLD THIS WINTER, WE ALSO STOCK BOTH 3 POINT AND TRAILED LOG SPLITTERS FINISHED T0 THE HIGHEST STANDARD!

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uperior Insulations Ltd., provides NSAI approved insulation and ventilation solutions to keep your home warm, draught-free and breathable. The Great News is that Superior Insulations can process the SEAI grant application which means that our clients don’t have to pay the grant price when paying for the job – we do it all for you and you get a lovely cosy home. What does this mean in monetary terms? Insulating with attic insulation and cavity bead insulation? Pay €500 less. Insulating with external wall and attic insulation? Pay up to €3850 less. Superior Insulations uses the Ecobead Platinum System – the best cavity wall solution in the market. For homes with no cavity or have the cavity filled, the PowerWall External Wall Insulation system is the superior solution. Superior Insulations also offer a number of insulation solutions for attics, flat roofs and foundations. So many customers are satisfied with their Superior Insulations experience and the testimonials are flowing in. Check out what our customers are saying on our facebook page: Superior Insulations Ltd. Find out more about our products and services at www.superiorinsulations.ie or call or text 086 172 9064 now for a warmer home.

focus on farming

Northwest Express March, 2014

Teagasc assists forest owners whose forests suffered windblow damage T

he wet weather and storms over the last few weeks have led to considerable windblow damage in some Irish forests. The Munster area has been especially hard hit. Estimates of the area blown over and/or damaged range from 4,000 – 8,000 hectares on a national level. Teagasc urges forest owners to take action now. By taking timely action, severe

financial losses can be avoided. John Casey, Forestry Adviser with Teagasc in Cork said: “Extensive damage has occurred to both individual trees on farms and also to forestry plantations. Many landowners are facing into unprecedented numbers of fallen trees and are uncertain as to what their best approach should be. Teagasc advises forest owners to

check their plantations when it is safe to do so, and if necessary to take action now. Most windblown timber can still be salvaged and severe financial losses avoided if the correct action is taken.” He continued “Teagasc can offer you advice and support on what steps to take next. Therefore, if you have any questions at all on procedures on

timber removal, felling licence applications, liability issues or who to contact; talk to your local Forestry Adviser. You will receive independent and objective advice.” John pointed out that it is important to get sound advice as tree felling may require you to obtain a felling licence prior to cutting down the trees. He said: “Teagasc can explain when felling licences may be required and what the relevant steps are. Such licences are issued by the Forest Service. Their Felling Section can be contacted at 053-9160200 if you have any further queries.” To find out what your options are, or what steps to take next, contact your local Forestry Adviser. Contact details are available from your local Teagasc office or visit www.teagasc.ie/forestry/staff. Teagasc’s forestry website has a wealth of relevant information including Felling Licence application forms, contact details for timber harvesting contractors, safety guidelines for forestry operations, a guide to working with chainsaws and much more. Find out more at

www.teagasc.ie/forestry. Teagasc reminds landowners that operating a chainsaw on windblown trees is extremely hazardous. Only fully trained and accredited operators should consider doing such work. This work becomes even more hazardous where road safety and electricity supply lines are involved. Always follow the Health and Safety Authority's guidelines carefully. All parties involved (including forest owners) have legal obligations. Safe work practices aim to minimise, or eliminate, as much risk as possible. Wear safety footwear and clothing when operating a chainsaw. Work in pairs, never alone. Take account of possible sudden movements of timber as a result of work being done on it, or branches under strain. If working near overhead power lines, make sure that no power line is closer than two tree lengths. If in doubt, consult the ESB well in advance. If it is necessary to climb a tree, employ a professional tree surgeon. Do not operate the chainsaw above shoulder height. Leave the site in a safe condition.

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Northwest Express March, 2014

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You can call us at 086-850-9595 or 086-877-8635 Email: enquiries@marqueecolutions.ie • www.marqueesolutions.ie

Northwest Express March, 2014

focus on farming

Horseracing chief concerned at plans for large-scale wind farms T

HE figurehead of the largest horseracing empire in the world has expressed concern about plans for wind farms in Ireland. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al

R.S.

Maktoum is said to be perturbed by proposals for large swathes of turbines in the midlands, where part of his multi-billion euro operation is located. The sheikh, who is also prime

S AND R O O D

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minister of the United Arab Emirates, owns Kildangan Stud in Co Kildare. The stud's managing director Joe Osborne told the Irish Independent that Sheikh Mohammed was aware

RING

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of and concerned about the plans, as were many leading international breeders. Mr Osborne is also chairman of the Irish Thoroughbred Breeders' Association (ITBA), which is among four thoroughbred horse bodies to make a submission to the Department of Environment on proposed revisions to wind energy development guidelines. The four bodies have warned that investments in the bloodstock industry – which directly employs 14,000 people and is worth around €1bn a year to the Irish economy – could be lost if wind turbines were not kept a safe distance from stud farms and training yards. "Look at any of the leading horse breeding areas in the world. None of them have wind turbines," he was quoted as saying. The breeders' groups say they are not opposed to wind farms, but believe they should kept away from thoroughbred operations. "We are not against wind turbines per se, but we believe thoroughbred operations should be factored into any new guidelines," he said. The chief concerns relate to light flicker, shadow and noise caused by turbines.

"Thoroughbreds are not like regular horses. They are more highly strung. It does make them more susceptible to a visual or a noise-related disturbances," Mr Osborne said. "Any new guidelines should consider thoroughbred operations as being given special status in consideration of wind farm applications." The ITBA was joined by the Irish Jockeys Association, the Irish Racehorse Trainers Association and the Association of Irish Racehorse Owners in making submissions to the department. Officials are examining the revision of wind energy development guidelines, which have not been updated since 2006. Three separate plans for largescale farms to serve the UK have been proposed in the midlands. One, from Mainstream Renewable Power, plans to build farms across six counties: Offaly, Laois, Meath, Kildare, Westmeath and Tipperary. Another by Element Power plans to site wind farms in Meath, Westmeath, Kildare, Laois and Offaly. A third project, planned by Bord na Mona, is seeking to use land in Offaly and Kildare.

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Gates can be made to order to suit the size you need

3 in 1 Calving Gate Nationwide delivery available Castlerea, Co. Roscommon • Call Thomas 086-806-2760 www.tullyforge.ie

Northwest Express March, 2014

Farmers wary of high-tech kit costs

Almost half of farmers are planning to invest in precision farming equipment in the next 12 months, but many are holding back because of the high costs, according to a Farmers Weekly poll. The poll asked a range of questions to find out what technology is in use and what the potential uptake is in the near future. The main users of precision technology techniques are arable growers (80%), and predominantly cereal (30%) or rape growers (21%). Almost two-thirds used a tractor-mounted device, with self-propelled sprayers the next most common at 20%. The survey revealed a good spread of the type of devices used, with the most popular being the light-bar system for keeping tramlines on track (16%). Full autosteer systems were in use on 15% of farms, with a further 7% using the more basic steering-wheel-driven alternative. Farmers using real-time kinematics or ultra-precise positioning systems, accurate to about 2cm, accounted for 10% of the respondents. As RTK is among the

most expensive kit, the relatively high uptake was a surprise. On livestock farms, the most common pieces of precision kit were electronic identification, drones for stock checking and heat-detection collars, although none of these accounted for more than 2% of farms in the survey. About 75% of those surveyed said they had invested in better technology to improve profitability through fewer passes, reduce inputs and achieve greater efficiency. The survey revealed that growers were prepared to spend significant sums of money on kit. Over the past five years, almost 20% had spent more than £20,000 and 4% said they had spent upwards of £50,000. But a significant number of responses were from farmers who had decided not to buy precision equipment. Two-thirds said the cost of precision kit was far too high. Others felt the machinery was too complex or not user-friendly (14%) and one in five thought it was not useful to their businesses.

Farm Sheds Fabricated & Erected Telephone: 0044-77-46117236 New sheds for sales Box profile, non-drip roof. 4 full sky lights 6 foot side sheeting and all gable sheeting. 1 door opening in center of gable 32’ x 26’ 6” x 12 foot’ high.. €4,280 + VAT 32’ x 20” x 12 foot’ high.. €3,120 + VAT We can make any size of shed to suit your needs just give me a call • All ridge and galvanised gutters supplied with screws • sheds repaired and resheeted • Sliding doors made and hung • Gutters repaired and fitted all power washing done • All ground work and concrete done • All types of block work and plastering done • All types of digger work done

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focus on farming

Economic Analysis of Rural Towns presented to Galway County Council by Teagasc Head of Rural Economy and Development

eagasc Head of Rural Economy and Development, Prof Cathal O’Donoghue was invited recently to present research undertaken as part of Teagasc’s research support of the Commission for the Economic Development of Rural Areas (CEDRA) to a meeting of Galway County Council. At this meeting Prof O’Donoghue said that “small and medium sized towns have been affected to a greater extent by the economic downturn, with unemployment increasing by 193% in towns under 10,000 inhabitants compared with 115% in cities and 150% nationally”. He noted in his address that: Education levels are lower than the national average in small and medium sized towns and the open countryside. Small and medium sized towns and the open countryside are disproportionally reliant on declining industrial sectors (construction, manufacturing

industry). Poverty rates are higher in small and medium sized towns. The share of working age households with no one in work (jobless households) is 20% higher than the national average at 31%. In his presentation he commented specifically in relation to Galway towns. As part of a Teagasc study, where towns were ranked in relation to unemployment and emigration, a number of facts emerged: Galway has some of the top towns nationally under this measure with Clarinbridge, Barna, Carnmore, Clifden, Craughwell and Oranmore all in the top 10 per cent of towns. Most of these towns are commuter towns and reflect Galway’s economic strength. Ballinasloe and Rossaveal are in the bottom 20 per cent. Gort, however, having been just outside the top 10% in 2006 and 2002 are now in the bottom 10% in the country having lost 350 jobs and lost 15% of its working population

during the crisis. He noted particularly the significant impact of the downturn in Gort which has fallen in these rankings more than any other town in the country. Gort’s decline mirrors, but magnifies the decline seen nationally due to: An over reliance on construction prior to the crash. An unsustainable increase in economic activity over a short period. An unsustainably fast population and housing rise prior to 2006. However, he highlighted that Gort’s historical ranking reflects an underlying historical strength in terms of its economic potential and so has the attributes to grow again if the right decisions are made. It is at the centre point of a high education axis that follows the road between Limerick and Galway, and is thus a rural area with relatively high human capital. This geographic position is also reflected in excellent,

road, rail and airport links as well as close proximity to major tourism assets such as the Burren, Coole Park, Galway Bay and Lough Derg. Indeed geologically, Gort forms part of the Burren lowlands. Gort also has a significant cultural heritage as a central location within the Celtic revival movement at the turn of the last century. Teagasc are working with community leaders in Gort and the surrounding Burren lowlands of South Galway and North Clare as part of its CEDRA plus project to revitalise the area economically. He highlighted the need for dedicated policies and specific actions targeted at the economic development of small and medium sized towns and welcomed the new role that local authorities will play in relation to rural economic development and looks forward to publication of the report of the Commission for the Economic Development of Rural Areas (CEDRA).

Sheep Drover aids batch movement of sheep

ooking much like a giant, complex rat-trap, this is the latest development from Aberdeenshirebased BIBBB equipment. Designed for moving batches of ewes and young lambs about, it comprises three fold-out gates that form a catching/release pen plus five weld-mesh crates with a checkerplate floor for individual sheep. The front part of each of these is separated off with a hinged gate to carry the lambs belonging to that particular ewe. Like the company’s cattle Catcher Crate, it is designed for use on a fore-end loader or handler. When it is dropped off, individual gates at the head of each pen allow single animals to be released, one by one. Price for a fully galvanised unit fitted with pallet-fork slides is £1,450.

DEAD AND WORN-OUT ANIMALS Sales, Service & Repairs Carried out on all Makes & Models

Contact: Tom Rogers Strokestown, Co. Roscommon SAME DAY COLLECTION SERVICE SERVICING LEITRIM & SLIGO FARMERS FOR OVER 20 YEARS

071-9634783 / 9633344 Only Licensed Knackers Yard & Service in NorthWest Lowest Prices and Daily Collection Guaranteed

Annagh, Tourlestrane, Co. Sligo

Mob: 087-2706169

Northwest Express March, 2014

FREE

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Mayo Sligo CO-OP Mart

Sale of Bullocks, Heifers, Weanlings, Cull Cows, Springers , Suck calves & All Sheep every Tuesday Booking via the Office numbers from 9am every Friday Morning. Payment available from the next day on request. Please Note: 1. Please visit our website www.mayosligomart.ie for full calendar of events for Spring & further details of upcoming sales. 2. Export of Friesian Bull Calves over 42kg on Mondays between 11 and 1 O'Clock. Contact Mart office for details. 3. Closing date for entries for the Easter Saturday Pedigree sale is March 16th. Contact the office or visit the website for further details.

Licence under PSRA 002934

email: ballina@auctionmarts.com web: www.mayosligomart.com

Crossmolina Road, Ballina, Co. Mayo

Pre Booking: 096-22555

AI TECHNICIAN LEITRIM Bull fer!lity tes!ng Ireland offers a cost effec!ve on farm analysis of a bulls breeding capability. This is done by carrying out an inspec!on of the bull on the farm and in addi!on to a number of physical and on-site laboratory fer!lity analysis. We also offer Bovine scanning services which involves pregnancy determina!on to ensure breeding suitability of cows. All bulls should have an annual Breeding Bull Capability Examina!on carried out. It is not uncommon for bulls to go infer!le from one season to the next or for them to start to become sub fer!le the only way of determining this is to carry out such an examina!on. Such an examina!on will also ensure that problems such as damaged penis's or warts are observed and allowing for problem stock bulls to be removed from the herd before the start of the breeding season.

Castleard Ballaghaderreen, Co. Roscommon • Tel: 086-7788606 john@bullfer!litytes!ng.ie • www.bullfer!litytes!ng.ie

Providing a Beef & Dairy Insemination Service in the Carrick-on-Shannon, Mohill, Cloone, Gortletteragh, Kiltubrid, Ballinamore and Fenagh areas of Leitrim (including the surrounding areas) on behalf of Sligo A.I. (071 9118892).

Sires Include: RAMBLER was the first son of CF52 in AI and is still a very popular sire among farmers and technicians.

DENNY is an easy calving sire with a super pedigree , rated 5 star across the board combined with his pedigree puts Denny in high demand nation wide , great farmer satisfaction.

ENRICO is a son of the legendary Sympa and is out of Wilodge Vavanelle, who is a full sister to the highly acclaimed 42,000gns sireWilodge Vantastic

FAVORI is the UK herds 2011 calf champion with a 400 day weight of 760kgs

Call for any information on sires or to request a Beef or Dairy Cataloge.

Conor Guckian-087 2060714 • www.sligoai.com

Northwest Express March, 2014 Northwest Express March, 2014

GH Agri – Galway Homeopathics

focus on farming

Ask the Vet:

Opico combi drill aims for accuracy and speed Watery mouth in lambs

H Agri – Galway Homeopathics, manufacture, wholesale and retail a range of award winning Homeopathic Veterinary Medicine & Immunisation Programmes for the control and treatment various on-farm disease and ailments. From our best selling homeopathic based Programmes treating Mastitis, IBR Lepto & BVD & a range of other ailments; to our patented vitamin and mineral supplements & organic cleansers and seaweed fertilizer. Our main customers are large commercial dairy and beef farmers but we treat small organic farm animals of all shapes and sizes. Our products are 100% natural and perfectly safe for the animals, the farmer and the food chain. Using antibiotics, pharmaceutical medicines and chemicals will mean a farmer has to restrict entry into the food chain; milk has to be dumped for up to 3-4 days when antibiotics are used for treating mastitis; antibiotic treated beef herds held for months

longer, which in turn increases risk of exposure to more disease. What make us different? • One of the key differences is that we are 100% natural and our products are approved by the Irish Organic Farmers Association. This is good for the animals, the farmer and the end consumer. • No Meat or Milk Withdrawal • GH Agri – Galway Homeopathics is the only company in Ireland licensed to manufacture and supply homeopathic veterinary medicine We are licensed by • Department of Agriculture Food and the Marine • Irish Medicines Board • Irish Organic Farmers and Growers Association • Also licensed by the Veterinary Medical Directorate in the UK

esley Bingham is a farm vet at Westpoint Vets. Each year I end up with a few lambs going down with wet mouth. The lambing area is disinfected with lime between uses. I also make sure lambs drink ASAP, but no matter what I do, some still go down with it. I want to prevent as many losses as possible through use of a vaccine and was wondering what is best? Watery mouth is caused by an overgrowth of E coli bacteria in a lamb’s gut. The bacteria is everywhere in the environment, but concentrated in faeces and therefore the environment and faeces-spoilt fleeces can be a source of contamination. Lambs are born with no natural protection against this problem. As soon as a newborn lamb drinks colostrum the pH in the lamb’s stomach is reduced. The bacteria cannot survive these acidic conditions and will be killed. However, if intake of colostrum is delayed for any reason, the

bacteria will very quickly move through the stomach and populate the small intestine. This leads to gut stasis causing the common signs of retained meconium (first poo) and inability to swallow, causing the watery mouth. There is usually gas trapped in the intestines as well. Lambs will become dull and lethargic very quickly, which often progresses to death. Natural suckling must happen quickly to ensure colostrum intake is sufficient. But prevention should be focused on hygiene at the time lambs are born. Few farms can control wa-

tery mouth by hygiene alone and have to rely on preventative antibiotics. These are not vaccinations, but antibiotics that kill some of the bacteria before it gets the chance to overpopulate the gut. It must be given as soon as possible after birth to be effective, ideally within 15 minutes. There are several licensed products available containing different antibiotics. Using antibiotics as a preventative method increases the risks of resistant bacteria arising, so it is sensible to delay use until you actually start to see problems. Product choice will depend on your individual farm history, so contact your vet for more information. Advice given is based on the information provided and can’t necessarily apply to situations where other factors exist. If the advice required relates to a specific animal or disease problem the reader should to contact their own vet or advisor with appropriate knowledge of the particular circumstances that they face.

Solving the problem of Mas!!s and High Soma!c Cell Count – Consistently Dose now for BVD, Lepto, Salmonella and IBR – 12 months protec!on Free Backup Service and Product Our customers are commercial farmers who use our Programmes year a#er year with con!nued results for mas!!s, reduced SCC, scour, BVD, Lepto, IBR, Salmonella, increased fer!lity, and general condi!on. • No withdrawal of milk during treatments • lower SCC from penalty to bonus prices for milk, • Reduce vets bills • No an!bio!c resistance • Easy to administer • 12 months backup product & service included with every programme

From €10 ahead a full year’s treatment “I treat using the Scour Programme and get the results”

Denis McAuley, Downpatrick 60 strong Belgian Blue/Fresian suckler herd

“The 3in1 BVD Programme has kept me in business”

Donie Aherne, Kilteely, Co Limerick, 80 sucklers, 86 01yr & 6012yr olds. “I’m using Mas!!s Programme for the past 4 years, milk yields are op!mal, cell count is consistently

within bonus levels and my overall TBC is down to record levels.” Pat Ahearne milking 100 cows for Dairygold near Cork Airport

he latest grain and fert drill option on the market comes from Opico, which has mounted a 3m Alitalia pneumatic drill on a heavy-duty Orso power harrow and added a frontmounted fertiliser distribution system. The firm’s Perfecta double-disc coulters are designed to place seed and

fertiliser together accurately, says the company. The 1,260-litre front fertiliser tank comes with either hydraulic or ptodriven fans and metering can either be mechanical via land-wheel or electronic via radar/GPS. The wheels are positioned under the front tank, which spreads the weight and also

acts as a front press. See also: Opico hatches a new He-Va rape drill Fertiliser application rate is controlled using Maschio’s cartridge-type metering system – the same system that is used to control seed rate on the drill. The Alitalia drill is mounted on the 600mm packer roller of the power harrow and not on the power harrow itself. This, says the company, ensures the drill follows the ground contours and prevents damage from stones. Seed hoppers are available with either 1500 litre or 2000 litre capacity. Seed metering is electronic and uses RDS technology to deliver accurate variable rate control.The firm’s Quick-Match attachment system is also said to give easy attachment of the power harrow to the drill using a 3-point linkage. The 3m Alitalia/Orso combination costs £44,110 and the extra grain and fertiliser kit costs £23,197.

MUSCLERIGHT Muscleright can enhance the performance of your stock. More muscle and quality carcasses, available for cattle and sheep. TRANSRIGHT SUPER Is a combination of Bioplex mineals, vitamins and probiotics which can help improve the food conversion, relieve stress, improve lung and bronchial performance. It can also help aid good hair, sound hooves and also prevent scours. RINGWORMER Is a combination of minerals and vitamins in a powder format. it is fed to livestock with ringworm, so no handling of stock and no catching yourself! It aids the removal of Ringworm. To discuss the above or purchase any of our products please do not hesitate to contact us on

Landline: 071-9647014 Mob: 087-6698077 / 087-7834906 or email info@natural-nutritional.eu

• Large range of New and Used Trailers and farm machinery • Extensive range of spare parts for all type of and farm machinery • Complete sales and service of all our products • Main importers and distributors for Hudson trailers • Larger components can be ordered with next day delivery gauranteed • New and Used products

Our opening hours Mon-Fri: 8am-6pm Saturday: 8am-2pm

Licensed by: • DAFM • Irish Medicines Board • Approved by IOFGA

For more informa!on on any of our fully licensed veterinary medicine programmes please contact: GH Agri Galway Homeopathics, The Mall, Tuam, Co Galway Telephone: Sales: 093-25495 • 087-2602549 (any!me) Email: marke!ng@galwayhomoeopathics.com • www.galwayhomoeopathics.com

Doory,Ballymahon,Co. Longford www.geretyfarmmachinery.ie Phone/Fax: 04493 57447 • Mobile: 086 8873815

Northwest Express March, 2014 Northwest Express March, 2014

GH Agri – Galway Homeopathics

focus on farming

Ask the Vet:

Opico combi drill aims for accuracy and speed Watery mouth in lambs

From €10 ahead a full year’s treatment “I treat using the Scour Programme and get the results”

Denis McAuley, Downpatrick 60 strong Belgian Blue/Fresian suckler herd

“The 3in1 BVD Programme has kept me in business”

Donie Aherne, Kilteely, Co Limerick, 80 sucklers, 86 01yr & 6012yr olds. “I’m using Mas!!s Programme for the past 4 years, milk yields are op!mal, cell count is consistently

within bonus levels and my overall TBC is down to record levels.” Pat Ahearne milking 100 cows for Dairygold near Cork Airport

Landline: 071-9647014 Mob: 087-6698077 / 087-7834906 or email info@natural-nutritional.eu

Our opening hours Mon-Fri: 8am-6pm Saturday: 8am-2pm

Licensed by: • DAFM • Irish Medicines Board • Approved by IOFGA

Doory,Ballymahon,Co. Longford www.geretyfarmmachinery.ie Phone/Fax: 04493 57447 • Mobile: 086 8873815

focus on farming Spuds going for cattle feed as prices plummet to €75/tonne

Northwest Express March, 2014

€20 Per Straw • €150 for 10 Royalty €40 on Pedigree Resistration

ollowing record prices just 12 months ago, potato growers now find themselves being forced to consider selling produce at a 10th of the price or as cattle feed. "While up to €750/t was being quoted this time last year, the best I can manage for the last three months is €75/t," Balbriggan-based grower Paul Delehan was quoted in the Independent. He has two thirds of his crop still in store after failing to sell any produce since last November. On the back of 2013's strong prices, growers increased the planted area by 15pc in 2013 to just over 25,000ac. The IFA's potato development officer Pat Farrell claimed that the general run of prices for growers supplying supermarkets here was from €125-250/t, compared to €600/t last year. But Mr Delehan fears if he doesn't take up the offer of €75/t now, he'll end up selling the bulk of his crop for cattle feed. "This year, buyers will reject produce for the slightest defect. Even though the price is now a 10th of last year, it's the best I have to go with because I'm hearing of lots of lads selling more marginal stuff as cattle fed for just €25/t," he said. Excellent growing and harvesting conditions last autumn resulted in a bumper crop. Some growers reported yields of up to 20t/ac, almost double that of the previous year when many fields were abandoned due to the wet conditions. Prices during the bumper harvest in autumn 2010 were bolstered by huge demand from Russia where drought had decimated yields.

Phillips limousins For sale 5 star replacement icbf index easy calving PBR LM bulls 14 to 20 mts, all bulls bvd, johnes & fertility tested. For sale 5 star replacement index PBR LM maiden & in calf heifers.

WEAK Growers were paid up to €200/t for tens of thousands of tonnes that were shipped to St Petersberg in Russia. However, weak export demand, coupled with declining domestic sales, has hammered prices this year.

Electronic feeders reduce costs and boost performance

t Ermine Farms’ 730sow farrow-to-finishing business in Lindsey, the use of electronic feeders has seen the farm reduce feed costs by a considerable £821 during lactation. The farm has eight feeders in freedom farrowing crates and seven in conventional farrowing crates, which enable sows to dispense feed to suit their appetite. Usually sows would be hand-fed twice a day, but farm manager Sam Gilliot says the feeders have reduced labour inputs considerably. “It used to take nearly four hours a day for feeding and now it only takes us half an hour to complete checks, so it is saving three hours a day. “All you have to do is look at your computer and go check the ones that haven’t fed.” Feed saving has been significant and by measuring feed waste they found sows in conventional crates fed by hand wasted about 7kg in a 28-day period compared with pigs fed through the automated feeders. Mr Gilliot believes sows are not wasting feed because they are in control of how much they eat and are able to dispense feed to suit their appetite. As a result he estimates the electronic feeder is

generating a significant saving of £821.50 during the lactation period throughout the year (see table above). “It is quite frightening really,” he admits. On top of this, piglets in the system have weighed on average 1kg more compared with those suckling hand-fed sows. “Sows are not being dictated when they can eat by people. They can eat when they want,” says Mr Gilliot who believes this is helping to boost milk supply. It is also helping the farm to better target body condition scores of 3 -3.5 on exit of the lactation period, because daily feed intake is monitored on the computer and a traffic light system enables farmworkers to adjust feed curves accordingly. Mr Gilliot says it allows staff to take decisive action sooner. “You can increase or decrease feed straight away and you can see if you have a poorly sow because feed intakes will have dropped across two consecutive feeds.” Herd consumption can also acts as a precursor for early disease. “Feeding in lactation is probably the most important – and the most difficult – thing to execute in the sows’ cycle,” explains BPEX knowledge transfer manager

Angela Cliff. “We really want the sow to maintain her body condition. If she looses a lot of weight it becomes difficult to get a good performance in the next breeding cycle.” But Ms Cliff describes it as a “battle” for the sow to eat enough to retain condition while feeding her piglets. “The objective during lactation is to get as much feed as possible into them to maintain body condition and achieve high weaning weights. “If you’re giving sows their feed in small allocations it is going to be fresher when they get it, which in itself helps improve appetite,” she explains. Through observing feeding patterns it was also found lactating sows ate less at night. “It is interesting, because dry sows prefer to eat during the night,” says Ms Cliff. Mr Gilliot directed feed intakes accordingly, with sows receiving 30% of their allowance in the morning and 20% in the evening. At a cost of £600 per feeder Mr Gilliot says it would cost in excess of £105,000 to put in the 175 feeders they would require. But he believes labour saving costs would help pay for the system in the long term.

Man available with

3 Tonne Hitachi Mini Digger

7.5 Tonne Lorry and Dumper Also Available

Covering the Midlands and West • Site Clearance • Gardens • Roads and driveways • Sheds, foundations etc, • Cleaning out of farm sheds • Highly experienced

Tel: 086-8209009

Northwest Express March, 2014

Mcgrath Electrical and security for all your Domestic, Industrial Security and Automation needs

cgrath Electrical and security automation was establised in 2000 by Jason Mcgrath and has quickly risen to to be a leader in electrical security and automation sector. At Mcgrath Electrics they provide an excellent service on all types of electrical ,security & automation installations. They are friendly, professional and reliable, they cover all aspects of Domestic, Commercial, Agricultural & Industrial installations including all Electrical installations, Fire Alarms, Digital & IP CCTV, Ethernet Networks, Access Control, Gate & Barrier automation & Industrial Automation. They are fully insured registered electrical contractors, and private security authority licenced in the security installations sector. At mcgrath electrics they undertake all types of industrial electrical & automation installations. They also offer annual maintenance contracts servicing all your electrical & automation systems to the current regulations to enable you to keep operating 24/7. McGrath electrics also carry out electrical peridoc inspections,emergency lighting certifications, fire alarm certifications,All of our electrical and security installations are carried out by quailified electricians with annaul trainning every year on new equipment and regulations. Gate & barrier automation They specialise in offering the most convenient and customised access control and automatic electrics gates & barriers for any type of application. Their Electric

Gates & barriers are built up with all advance techniques that add to your security along with easy opening systems, video intercoms, gsm intercoms,car detection loops, they are authorised installers of the faac range of gate automation.

E G A L U A H

& RECOVE

SERVICE

TELEPHONE MICHAEL ON: 087-7861975

Fire alarms They provide fire alarms and safety solutions to residential, commercial and industrial businesses .. Whether you need a new fire alarm installation,fire alarm certification, fire alarm upgrade or repair ,McGrath are here to offer help and advice you ring us to discuss your requirements. Standards Standards & Association At mcgrath electrics all our security installations are to European Standards EN50131. They are registered with E.Q.A ireland security standards and the private security authority ,they are also registered with safe electric ireland and the thus ensuring the highest standards for installation and after sales service. All systems systems comply with the regulatory bodies, they are licenced with the Private Security Authority (P.S.A.) and all systems meet with Insurance company requirements and the Garda Policy for Intruder Alarm Response. Mcgrath electrics carry out electrical and security installations throughout connaught and the midlands covering galway, tuam, mayo, castlebar, sligo, roscommon, clare, athlone, leitrim, They can be contacted on 086 - 8701485

Truck available to transport backload of tractors / machinery, Teleporters, Forklifts, Diggers up to 13 tonne or anything else you need moved. Bales also Transported All types of bales transported as backloads and of rounds or squares . Bales of sillage hay and straw bought and sold.

Nationwide and UK service Licenced and insured.

Sales & Service Phone: 086-8701485 • www.mcgrathelectrics.ie

Automatic Yard Security Gates

Protect your farm with heavy duty automated sliding gate and open & close it with your mobile phone from anywhere.

Internet Calving Cameras

View your CCTV system or calving cameras on Your iphones & ipads From anywhere.

Farm Watch Alarms

Protect your yard with A farm watch alarm system which will contact your mobile in the invent of a break in.

Your Local Electrical & Security Installation Company Covering Galway • Mayo • Sligo • Roscommon

Northwest Express March, 2014

D n E C e o T k o c N i ps A W FOR EXPORT Ch Pressure Treated with Wheels, Removable Floors and Felt Lined

TRUCKS: Daf, Man, Merc, Mitsubishi, Volvo etc TRAILERS: 40ft-45ft Trailers, Curtainsiders, Flatbeds, Tippers & Box Trailers ALL END OF LIFE VEHICLES FOR EXPORT: Cars, Vans, Plant & machinery, Diggers, Forklifts, old Machinery, etc

Chicken coops 3’3”x 6’ €170 • 8’x4’ €250 • 6’8”x5’5” €290 Hen house with egg box 3’ x 4’6” x 5’ high €200 Dog house 4’x4’ x 56” high €260 • Dog house 4’x42”x52” high €220 Pyramid planter 4 "er 4ins wide €80.

LOW LOADER & FLAT TRAILER HIRE FULLY LICENSED & INSURED

Contact Charles on 087-9499431

Telephone 094-9540944

EQUINE DENTAL TECHNICIAN

APPROVED AEOS, TAMS & REPS CONTRACTOR

• Full dental examination and diagnosis • Routine cleaning file floating and rasping, bit seat etc • Removal of hooks and ramps in teeth • Gentle treatment of horses guaranteed

Modern Equine Dentistry advices checking horses teeth every 6 months. This is very important for young horses up to 5 years of age, but also for older horses that may have any abnormality Prices €30 per horse for 2 or more horses in a yard €40 for a single horse (call out fee may apply for single horse depending on distance to travel)

Serving Mayo and surrounding counties Tel: 087-9544468

CascoAgri

Farm Fencing, Stock Proofing, Post & Rail, Existing Farm Building Repair

Livestock Handling Facilities, Concrete Yards & Slabs, Slatted Tanks Retaining Walls/Block Walls Land Drainage and Reclamation Qualty Work Guaranteed Tel: 087-6484244 • Email: cascoj@eircom.net

Northwest Express March, 2014

Your

full line dealer

Full range of Kubota equipment in stock including GR series mowers, RTV400 and RTV900 utility vehicles, L40 series tractors and M series tractors. Also large selection of genuine Kubota spares and oils.

Your Yamaha ATV dealer Full range in stock from 125-700cc Also agents for Nugent equipment and trailers, Quad X ATV accessories, Belmac Equipment and a host of other brands. Large selection of second hand Tractors, ATVs, RTVs and attachments for tractors and ATVs.

Plant & Agri Machinery Sales, Castlebar Road, Westport, Co. Mayo Telephone: (098) 29122 / (087) 2411120

Winter Feeding & Housing Equipment

Delivery available • Mayo, Galway, Roscommon and all other counties

Jourdain feeding equipment • All sizes available • Locking Barriers • Diagonal Barriers • 2 Bar feed rails • 3 Bar feed rails 4 bar and 5 bar dividing gates with choice of ends(gate end, panel end, drinker end, calf creep end, man escape end) all sizes availble

• Calf Creep Feeders • Gates fold over top, ideal for ad lib feeding • Hanging Gate Feeders • 1.2 meters, adjustable feed control and neck protectors • De horning Crates fully galvanized • Feeding Trough suitable of ab lib feeding or diet feeders • Heavy duty crush panels with matching posts

Call for more details Tel: 086-1612617

HORSE MATS ARE ALSO AVAILABLE

Northwest Express March, 2014

Enda Egan

Master Farrier

MFA (Irish master farrier Association Member)

Telephone: 086-8770711

Diane Wilson

Equine Dental Technician Covering Sligo , Leitrim and Roscommon

Graduate of American School of Equine Dentistry now taking bookings. I specialise in hand floating tailored to each horses individual needs. Discounts for more than one horse at the same venue.

Covering all Connacht

Telephone 071-9646889 for prompt reliable service

D.M.D. Manufacturing Ltd Horse Scale/Weigher This easy to use scale is essential for the serious breeders and competitors. It comes with a non-slip, noise reducing matt for the animal’s comfort. The platform has a specially designed molded frame to provide enough strength and surface space that the animal will feel safe and secure on the Scale. • Moulded lightweight aluminium frame • Capacity of 3 ton • Non-Slip, noise reducing cover mat • Non-Slip adjustable legs • Total weight of product- 70 kilos • Comes with the option of a Basic Indicator or a Recording Indicator Display • Recording Indicator Displays will record weight for recall • All electronics are fully enclosed • IP 67 Rated • Vermin Resistant wiring IRISH MADE • 1 YEAR GUARANTEE • 24 HR BACK UP FREE NATIONWIDE DELIVERY

If you can’t measure it, then you can’t monitor it

Bonniconlon, Co. Mayo • Telephone: 086-3970001 • email: info@dmdmanfacturingltd.com To See our full range including Sheep and Cattle Products visit www.dmdmanufacturingltd.com

Northwest Express March, 2014

Connacht Spring Show Sunday 18th May 2013, Ballinrobe Race Course, Ballinrobe Co Mayo

MANOR

STUD

Tulsk, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon Stallions standing at Manor Stud Creggan Emperor. - R.I.D. Chestnut, 16.1 Hands By: Holy Cross. Dam: Carrick Row Star

Imperial Blue Diamond. Irish Sport Horse

Bay, 17.1 Hands By: Master Imp. Dam: Diamond Lady Blue, by Diamond Lad

ll roads will once again lead to Ballinrobe Racecourse on the 18th May for the third Annual Connacht Spring Show, which promises to be one of the best shows to be held in the West of Ireland in recent years. Incorporating the Connacht International Sheep Shearing Championships, the Spring Show will boast a comprehensive and diverse range of exhibitions and displays, and foremost among them will be the large farm machinery show. All leading machinery dealers will be in attendance to display their wares and answer queries from interested customers. As well as the latest in farm machinery, there will be cars, 4x4s and other farmrelated vehicles. There will also be a large selection of trade stands focusing on bio-fuels, livestock supplies, veterinary supplies, landscaping and grass care products. Following the success of last years sheep show this years show is looking even better as John Farrell from Roscommon will be at the helm. John, a well known Charolis sheep breeder says he is looking forward to be part of this years event. There will also be sheep dog demonstrations. This event will encompass all aspects of farming and rural life, said one of the organisers Paddy Rock. It will bring everyone who is connected in any way with farming and rural Ireland to the same venue, so it is very much a one-stop-shop for farmers and their families. Our record setting attempts are set to continue with what will undoubtabily be one of the highlights of the show as we attempt to set another new Irish Record this year for the largest Number Of Teddy’s ever to attend a Supermacs Teddy Bears Tea Party. All funds raised from this endeavour will go to Pieta House. The event will be co-ordinated by the transition year students from Ballinrobe Community School. Please bring your Teddy and all other Teddy’s you can gather. The Connacht and International Open Sheep Shearing Championships. Here you can see shearers of all ages compete in their various grades for the titles that are on offer. Most of these will have travelled from all over the world and throughout the British Isles looking for an opportunity to familiarise themselves with local sheep as they prepare for to compete in the World Championships in Wexford. Special guests will be the South

African Hand Sheep Shearing Team. Following the success of last years Pony Show we are delighted to welcome Gain Foods on board as the main sponsor of this years show and it looks like we will have lots of increased entries in all sections, Connemara, IPS and Welsh. We are also delighted to welcome to our Welsh pony section The Welsh Overseas Bronze Medals Classes (the first ever to be held in the west of Ireland and with these medals much sought after, competition should be intense). Further details on all sections through or web site www.connachtspringshow.com. The Best of the West Food Emporium will once again feature all well known artisan food producers in the region and will give those visiting it an opportunity to taste what is best in the west. Our special guest will be Catherine Leyden (Odlums) who will give a talk on home baking. Crafts from within the region will be well represented and by Mayo Crafts who will be presenting their products in a stand alone marquee. This years show will feature strongly on a Family Fun Day with a special appearance of the Exploration Dome and will contain lots of novelty events most noteably The Irish Open Egg Throwing Championships Featuring the Dutch Egg Throwing Team, Sheep Racing, Bouncing Castles and much more novelty events. There’s also a Connacht Tug-Of-War competition with teams competing from all over the province. Our 6th Annual Connacht Dog Show sponsored by Gain Foods will be of particular interest to dog lovers every where as it boasts 25 classes with 1st 2nd & 3rd in all classes. This a perfect opportunity for you to get your dogs ready for the IKC Shows with a good size dog ring which will be on grass. The Connacht Spring Show promises to be an unforgettable weekend with lots more events to be announced in the coming weeks. Follow us on facebook !!! For further information on Trade Stands Contact Ray @087-2898229 Machinery Stands: Contact Rachel on 086-0366296 To book a stand in the Food Emporium contact Paddy on 087-9337712 or Aileen on 087-6756488…. http://www.connachtspringshow.com

Oisín Ná Coillte Dubh. Registered Connamara Pony Class 1 Grey, 14.2 Hands By: Oisín. Dam: Corran Silver. By: Mervyn Pookhaun

For Appointments Tel: 071-9639163 Mobile: 086-3550636

Northwest Express March, 2014

farmingServices

Ireland joint-fourth in Florida the huge challenges ahead, and of course we must build on last night's performance." Ireland finished on a 17-fault total over the two rounds, and the Irish team scores were as follows: Shane Sweetnam/Eregast Van’T Kiezelhof (Owner: Spy Coast Farm LLC ) 4/4 Richie Moloney/Carrabis Z (Owner: Equinimity LLC) 8/0 Paul O'Shea/Lilli (Owner: Georgina Bloomberg) 5/4 Cian O'Connor/Quidam's Cherie (Owner: Adena Springs Stables) 0/8

RELAND'S show jumping team finished equal fourth with Brazil at Wellington in Florida in their first Nations' Cup of 2014 on Friday night, after a marathon competition that saw 12 teams taking part. A clear round from Cian O'Connor and Quidam's Cherie helped the Irish make the cut for the second round, in which eight nations

took part, and a further clear from Richie Moloney on Carrabis Z in the second round ensured that the Irish team stayed within the top rank. While Ireland was not competing for points in the American and Caribbean section of the Furusiyya FEI league, they were nevertheless battling with teams from Canada, Mexico, and the host nation USA, for

whom points were essential. Canada ended up winning the competition, with the USA in third place and Mexico in sixth. Irish team manager Robert Splaine said: "The Canadians and the USA are always particularly strong at this show, as it is part of the qualification series for them in the Furusiyya league. "However, our performance was

AI TECHNICIAN ROSCOMMON Ai service available from BOVA AI services with an excellent range of beef bulls for this years breeding season also very easy calving limousin and angus bulls for heifers this spring ie. Dubai thz.Tadgh syt and Many more bulls.

encouraging and we had some new partnerships making their debut in a Nations' Cup. "Once again, we owe a huge debt to the owners. We need top horses and without owners we cannot fulfil our ambitions, and it was pleasing to see a new one being involved last night. "It is important also not to underestimate

Michael O’ Connell Tractors Sales And Service Caraun, Claregalway, Co. Galway

SPECIALISING IN SPARE PARTS FOR ALL MAKES OF TRACTORS Large Stock Of All Makes Of Tractors For Sale Specialising In Deutz, Same,Lamborghini And Hurlimann Tractor Parts And Repair

Service And Repair To All Makes Of Tractors Carried Out. Collection And Delivery Service Available

Contact Numbers: 086 252 9314 • 091 799 116

Maloney & Matthews LTD

DEAD AND WORN OUT WANTED ANIMAL COLLECTION

Ford, Massey Fergusons, Fiats, New Hollands & Valmets 2WD & 4WD Anything Considered Running or Not Also Wanted All Rubber Wheeled & Track Diggers Any Condition Cash on Collection

Call Fermanagh on 0044-7818-452267

McDaid Welding All types of work carried out

Contact: JIM MATTHEWS - Tubbercurry

TEL: 071-9121928 / 087-7988064

KEVIN SWEENEY A.I. Technician

Culleens, Co. Sligo - Tel: 086-8583550 Also other farm services carried out including: • Dehorning • Debudding • Castration • Tagging • Bvd tagging • Dosing

Colin McLoughlin: 086-2613884

• Agricultural Buildings • Welding Repairs • Gates • Portable Clothes Lines Tel: 085-1582056

3 TON EXCAVATOR

SALE | FARM QUADS | SALE Annual Sale on through FEBRUARY REDUCTIONS on ALL STOCK

Available for HIRE at keen rates Daily Rates from €100 e/w Driver Groundworker / Plant Operator ALL TYPES OF GROUND WORK carried out by certified driver

We Deliver to every County, Every Week Parts and Tyres Also Available PETER & ARON OF IRISH QUDS - Annual Farm Quad SALE We have the largest selection of clean, used Hondas in Ireland. 250cc to 800cc. We Specialise in low hours and miles quads. 2x4, 4x4 Pre Season Servicing Nationwide Delivery / Collection. We sell more farm quads to more farmers than anyone. All Serviced and with a minimum 3 month guarantee.

Tel. PETER 087-6777569 - www.quads.ie - info@quads.ie

Officially Approved Honda Dealer in Connacht, Irish Quads, Mulranny, Westport

Contact 086-0641365

Northwest Express March, 2014

farmingServices K&C MULVANEY Ltd.

Mayo Sligo

Dead & Worn out Animals

CO-OP Mart

Collection Service Daily Collection in all Areas Telephone: MULVANEYS at: Tel: 049-4338331 or 086-8551932 / 086-3827008

REP’S APPROVED QUALITY

Removes All Infection And Bacteria From Slatted Sheds

DRIVEWAYS • HOUSES • OUTHOUSES

WEEKLY TUESDAY SALE OF Bullocks, Heifers, Cows and Weanlings Along with usual Sheep Sale Also Suck Calf Sale @ 10am Weekly PREBOOKING ESSENTIAL Registered by PSRA under licence number 002934.

email: ballina@auctionmarts.com web: www.mayosligomart.com

Crossmolina Road, Ballina, Co. Mayo

Pre Booking: 096-22555

MORANS

• Tractor And Trailer For Hire • Mini Digger With Driver For Hire For All Types Of Household Or Farm Work

• Upgrading Septic Tanks New Percolation Systems Installed

Phone Martin Now For A Quote 086-173 0135 • Covering The North West

DEAD AND WORN-OUT ANIMALS Contact: Tom Rogers Strokestown, Co. Roscommon SAME DAY COLLECTION SERVICE SERVICING LEITRIM & SLIGO FARMERS FOR OVER 20 YEARS

071-9634783 / 9633344

Only Licensed Knackers Yard & Service in NorthWest Lowest Prices and Daily Collection Guaranteed

FARM FENCING

Domonic Frizzell for all your farm and reps fencing.

Barbed sheep and electric wire Digging and Hedging Services available 16 Years Experience

087-6806781 / 071-9186927

Irish Shamrock Trees Whitethorn & Beech Hedging Trees and more

• Aeos & REPS Specialists • All trees and tree plants • Refridgerated trees • Trees from €2.00 • All year round planting • Best Value Trees in Ireland.

Tel: 087-2743914 24 HR www.irishshamrocktrees.com

FOR SALE: • Ford 5000 4x2 Good • Ford 6600 4x2 Good • Ford 6610 4x2 Good • Ford 7810 4x2 Good • Ford TW15 off farm • MF 290 4x2 Good • Zetor 8011 4x2 Off farm • Fiat 1180H 4x2 off farm • Sumitomo SH300 Good • Cab to suit MF 265 etc. • Cab glass and parts • To suit MF and Ford • Buckets to suit case 580 • Wheels to suit MF&Ford • Pick up hitch to suit • MF and Ford • Quick hitch to suit

Hitachi120 and 150. • Tipping gear to suit Volvo FH12 WANTED: Tractors • Ford 4000 up to 8210 • 5640 up to 7840 2 and 4x4 • TM series (classics) • MF 165 up to 390 • All Belarus tractors •Fiat 4x4 tractors 90 series

Sumitomo and kobelco Trucks • Volvo FM12 and Fh12 from 1999 up • Scania 124 1998 up

Excavators Hitachi 60-1 up to 400-1 Zaxis /Zx 100 up to 450 Komatsu dash 6 and 7

Ballina, Co. Mayo • Tel: 087-413-9687

TULSK-MACHINERY

Dead Animal Collection Ardkeenagh, Tulsk, Co.Roscommon

BALLISODARE Tel: 071-9133417 or 087-6530767 PROMPT CALL-OUT Your Local Collector For Sligo Rams and Ewe’s Scrapie Tested

O’BRIEN TRACTORS

Bohola, Claremorris, Co. Mayo Tel 094-9384217 Mob: 087-9969455 www.obrientractors.com.

MAIN DEALERS URSUS • LANDINI • McCORMICK SALES • SERVICE • SPARE PARTS Loaders new and Used. Also attachments: • Bucket Grabs • Forks • Bale Splitters • Bale handlers • Selection of Part-worn tyres 2010 2009 2011 2004 2002

Landini Powermondial 110 C/W Loader N H T6020 LS Landini 5H 110 C/W Loader New Holland TL70 2wd Ursus 490 2wd

NEW TRACTORS ALWAYS IN STOCK Finance Arranged

Tel: 086-7919095 • PZ 185 drum mower 6! cut • Galvanized grass harrows 8!/14! • Lely lotus 4 rotor tedder • Potatoes li!er • Pz haybob complete recon. • Cheap pz haybob • Slurry tanker comp galv 1600 gal • Slurry injectors • Galvanized yard scraper 8!

• Malone transport box 6 ! • New nugent transport box 5! • Spring teed harrows • Heavy grubbers • Mole plough • Clean kverneland 3 furrow plough • 6 ! topper • 8 ! fully of side topper • 7 ! disc harrow

TRACTORS WANTED ALL TYPES OF FORD TRACTORS WANTED 4600 • 5600 • 6600 • 7600 • 4610 • 5610 • 6610

ALSO NEW HOLLAND TRACTORS TS&TSA • SL/SLDP • TM 120 • TM125 • TM130 • 8160 • 8260 • 8360 ALSO MASSEY FERGUSON 130 • 165 • 185 • 188 • 168 • 240 • 265 • 250 • 275 • 290 •550 • 565 • 575 • 590 675 • 690 • 698 • 699 • 365 • 375 • 390 • 398 • 300 • 500 • 600 • 40 Series SL/SLDP Masy Ferguson Balers - 124 • 120/20 John Deere 342 / 550 Class Combines - Dominator & Lexion New Holland Combines - All Models John Deere Combines - 955 • 965 • 975 • 1075 • 1077 • 1178 IN ANY CONDITION RUNNERS / NON RUNNERS • FOR BREAKING / EXPORT OR RESALE • ALL TYPES OF DIGGERS AND TELEPORTERS WANTED • RUNNERS AND NON RUNNERS • ALL TYPES OF ZETOR AND JOHN DEERE TRACTORS

Tel: 087-279-7553

FARM DIRECT WANTED ALL TYPES OF TRACTORS & TRACK MACHINES

Drenches for Sheep and Cattle Sheep Dip Farm Sprays eg. Crop Sprays Dairy Hygiene Products High Quality Animal Licks for maximum performance Grass Seed Electric Fencing Equipment

Tractors 2/4WD in any condition for resale-export & breaking Wanted Massey Ferguson's; MF165-168-175-178-185-188-565575-590-675-690-699-265-275-290. Fords-Fiats-John Deere-Zetor-Belarus-Universal Ect. All tractors considered in any condition, non runners also. Wanted all Plant Machinery; Hitachi-Komatsu-Jcb/ JS-Kobelco-Sumitomo-Cat-Mitsubishi Ect. Engines /gearboxs ,also wanted in any condition.

Tel: 087-680-6540 • e: buyplant10@gmail.com

FIRE HOSE REELS IDEAL FOR WASH DOWN We stock a large selection of fire hose reels from brand new reels to second hand reels as seen in the photos. The second hand reels have just being removed from an office block in holland and are like new complete with 30 metres of hosing attached complete with a swing out bracket to allow the reel to swing 180 degrees from the wall or pillar. The new fire hose reels we stock are manufactured in Holland and again come complete with 30 metres of 1" hosing, a swing out bracket and lever valve which are also shown in the photos. They are supplied with a three year warranty and are built to a very high standard designed to be used in milking parlours, poultry and piggery houses etc. All reels both new and second hand can be delivered next day across Ireland !!! Our main line of business is manufacturing Dairy Hygiene products using German Chemistry and in turn supplying DAIRY FARMERS DIRECT and PURCHASING GROUPS across Ireland & the uk

Northwest Express March, 2014

ELIMINATE MASTITIS & REDUCE S.C.C NOW Topsan SC PLUS German chemistry containing stabilised CHLORINE-DIOXIDE solution for reduced cost, greater efficiency & results you demand. Topsan sc plus is a ready to use solution for both pre&post applications. It can be used as a teat dip/ spray or foam. Topsan from TopChem is the dairy s first and only stabilised chlorine dioxide no mix in activator teat spray on the Irish and English market place. We have exclusive rights and licensing for the distribution for Topsan throughout these provinces. Again it's the only product that contains two biocides in solution compared to all the other teat sprays that have only one in solution at any time. Topsan gives the cow up to 12 hours teat protection against all strains of bacteria e.g E. coli or mastitis e.g hyperkeratosis. Topsan contains 25% emollients for maximum teat conditioning and 5% Japanese mint oil to create oxytocin which in turn helps to release milk let down when it's used as a pre spray . NEXT DAY DELIVERY ACROSS IRELAND!!

Northwest Express March, 2014

w rldnews

Do You Have any news or views for us? email us: info@theexpress.ie

Russia TV Presenter Quits On Air In Protest A

presenter for a Russian government-funded TV channel has resigned live on air, after accusing the station of "whitewashing the actions" of Vladimir Putin. Liz Wahl, a US anchor for Russia

Today America, told viewers during the broadcast: "I'm proud to be an American and believe in disseminating the truth and that is why after this newscast, I'm resigning." Her grandparents fled to the US as refugees during the

1956 Hungarian Revolution to escape the Soviet Union. Moscow has been accused of invading Ukraine's Crimea region after months of pro-European protests there saw the nation's pro-Russian president, Viktor

Yanukovych, ousted. Russia denies this, claiming the troops operating there are "selfdefence" forces who do not answer to Moscow. In a statement on Ms Wahl's actions, Russia Today said: "When a journalist disagrees with the editorial position of his or her organisation, the usual course of action is to address those grievances with the editor, and, if they cannot be resolved, to quit like a professional. "But when someone makes a big public show of a personal decision, it is nothing more than a selfpromotional stunt. We wish Liz the best of luck on her chosen path." Ms Wahl later tweeted: "I am grateful and humbled by the outpouring of support I have received." Another host from the channel criticised the actions of pro-Russian forces earlier this week. Abby Martin labelled the intervention "wrong" and said she was "strongly against" military involvement. The channel responded by saying Ms Martin "does not possess a deep knowledge of reality of the situation in Crimea" and that she would be sent there to "make up her own mind from the epicentre of the story".

Bitcoin Boss's 'Unnatural' Death Probed By Police

olice have confirmed they are investigating the "unnatural death" of a Bitcoin exchange chief executive - the latest setback for the troubled virtual currency. Autumn Radtke, 28, an American, was found dead at the base of a Singapore apartment block on February 26. Officers say it is unclear how the boss of First Meta died, but they have ruled out foul play amid unconfirmed reports link-

ing her with depression. Her death was announced as the virtual currency community attempts to shore up its future after the collapse of Tokyo-based Mt Gox, one of the longest-established Bitcoin exchanges, due to a suspected theft worth nearly half a billion dollars. Canada-based Flexcoin was also forced to shut down, saying that someone attacked its systems and stole nearly $600,000 worth of Bitcoins. There was nothing to

suggest that First Meta was in trouble and reports suggested that while online last month Ms Radtke linked to an article on entrepreneurs suffering depression, commenting above the link: "Everything has its price." The Singapore Police Force said it received a call early on February 26 requesting assistance at a public housing block on the fringe of the central business district. "A woman in her 20s was found lying motionless,"

police said in a statement. "She was pronounced dead at scene by paramedics. Police are investigating the unnatural death." The term "unnatural death" is used to refer to suspected suicides and other deaths not due to natural causes like an illness. The cause of death is subsequently determined by a coroner. First Meta confirmed her death in a statement on its website: "The First Meta team is shocked and saddened by the tragic loss of our friend and CEO Autumn Radtke. "Our deepest condolences go out to her family, friends and loved ones. Autumn was an inspiration to all of us and she will be sorely missed." According to her profile on business networking site LinkedIn, Ms Radtke began her career in enterprise cloud computing and "passed on an opportunity to work at Apple to stay in the fast-paced world of technology start-ups". She moved to Singapore in 2012 to head First Meta, a webbased exchange for users to buy, sell and trade virtual currencies for real money. First Meta last year secured funding of $464,000 from Silicon Valley-based technology firm Plug and Play Tech Center.

Legoland Closes Hotel Over Far Right Threats

egoland has closed its Windsor hotel last weekend after threats were made to staff and visitors over a Muslim family fun day that had been due to be held at the theme park. More than 4,000 people were expected to attend the private event organised by the Muslim Research and Development Foundation (MRDF). But following threats from far-right groups the fun day was cancelled on February 24 and now Legoland has gone a step further and closed its hotel for the weekend. The Berkshire theme park itself is due to reopen to the public for the 2014 season on March 14. A Legoland spokeswoman said the park had been contacted by a number of right wing groups "relentlessly and aggressively online and via the telephone". "The safety and security of our guests and our members of staff has to be our number one priority, which is why weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve made the difficult decision to close the hotel," she said. Before the fun day was cancelled, a BNP blogger said Legoland should be "ashamed of themselves for bowing to these Muslims". The blogger added: "This is disgusting and should NOT be allowed to go ahead. "If someone would organise a white Christian-only day, people would be up in arms, calling them racist and God knows what, but no one says a thing when it's Muslims." A picture of a Muslim Legoland worker was also posted on Facebook with an offensive comment, a Legoland spokeswoman said. Legoland said it had told callers it would also hire the park to them: "We certainly do not discriminate in any way. "The company who have hired the park also welcome friends and family of all faiths." The MRDF also said the fun day was "open to people of all faiths and backgrounds", as were many of the events its holds designed to bring communities closer together. A statement said: "Although we worked hard with Legoland to find a solution to the threats and negative press, Legoland made the decision to cancel the event as they could not guarantee the safety of the attendees and their staff." Legoland said people booked to stay in the hotel would get a full refund. "We are extremely sorry that weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve had to cancel guest bookings and whole heartedly understand the disappointment of those families that will be unable to attend," said the spokeswoman. Thames Valley Police said abusive and threatening messages would not be tolerated and an investigation was under way to determine whether any offence has been committed under the Malicious Communications Act (1988) in connection with offensive messages posted on social media.

Northwest Express March, 2014

Oscars Pizza Man Gets $1,000 Tip From Ellen

he delivery man who ended up handing out pizza to some of Hollywood's biggest stars has been given a $1,000 tip by host Ellen DeGeneres. Edgar Martirosyan, who owns Big Mama's & Papa's with his brother, appeared on The Ellen Show on Monday night to talk about how he ended up on stage at the Dolby Theatre. He revealed that his pizza place had received an order which he believed was just for producers and writers. However, when he arrived he was greeted by DeGeneres who took him by surprise by leading him out to where the stars were sitting. "I was shocked, it was really crazy for me," he said. Brad Pitt helped hand out slices to the stars The pizza was dished out to many of the stars sat on the front rows, including Brad Pitt, Meryl Streep and best supporting actor winner Jared

Leto. However, Mr Martirosyan revealed it was Julia Roberts who left him star-struck. "She was my like woman in dreams," the Russian said before explaining how he had watched her films when he lived in Moscow. During the awards show DeGeneres collected a tip for Big Mama's and Papa's with many stars putting cash into singer Pharrell Williams' hat. Mr Martirosyan looked thrilled as he was given the money by the comedian on her chat show. The pizza delivery was not the only stunt DeGeneres pulled at the ceremony. She also managed to pose with Meryl Streep, Jennifer Lawrence, Brad Pitt, Bradley Cooper, Julia Roberts and Angelina Jolie, among others for a record-breaking selfie. The photo, tweeted by DeGeneres moments after it was taken, went on to become the most retweeted photo in the website's history.

Fawlty Towers Star Has 'Mild Alzheimer's'

awlty Towers star Prunella Scales is suffering from "mild Alzheimer's", her husband Timothy West has revealed. The actor, 79, talks about Scales' condition in a new documentary called Grand Canal Journeys. The 81-year-old actress is best known for her role as Basil Fawlty's wife Sybil in the comedy with John Cleese but has had a successful career since. West tells the programme, which is broadcast on More4

later this month, that Scales suffers from "a sort of mild Alzheimer's", the Radio Times said. The couple have been navigating Britain's canals on a slow boat ever since they first sparked a passion for the hobby when they borrowed a friend's boat for a fortnight in the 1970s. And West tells the programme, in which the pair embark on four canal journeys across Britain, that the journeys are perfect for his wife because of the difficulties with her

memory. "She can't remember things very well, but you don't have to remember things on the canal," he says. "You can just enjoy things as they happen - so it's perfect for her." Scales says that she was determined not to let the condition keep her from the stage. "I always say I want to die on the eighth curtain call," she says. "Eight will mean the show's been rather a success. I just hope I'm somewhere near the middle and have been reasonably good in the part." The pair celebrated their golden wedding anniversary last October with a trip down the River Thames on paddle steamer the Waverley. Alzheimer's Society's director of external affairs, Dr Alison Cook, said: "Alzheimer's Society would like to thank Timothy West for speaking out about his wife Prunella Scales' dementia and raising awareness of the condition. "Their recent adventure navigating Britain's canals shows that it is possible to live well with dementia and plan to carry on enjoying life. "We would urge anyone who is concerned about themselves or a loved one to speak to their GP today or contact Alzheimer's Society for advice and support."

Cowell Worried About referring Pets To Son

imon Cowell has admitted he was worried he might like his dogs more than his son before baby Eric was born. In an interview with his ex-girlfriend Terri Seymour, the X Factor creator said he was "born to be a dad" and would consider having more children. The 54-year-old said: "I wouldn't rule out (more children). "Well, I've got (Yorkshire terriers) Squiddly and Diddly, and I couldn't imagine Squiddly or just Diddly ... "I had a brother when I was younger, so I kind of think it's cool to have two or three ... two." Cowell had to make a mad dash from London, where he was filming Britain's Got Talent, to be at girlfriend Lauren Silverman's side when she gave birth to Eric in New York on Valentine's Day. He said he cried when his first son was born and said any trepidation he felt

quickly dissipated. "I actually said to Lauren beforehand, 'What if I like the dogs more than him?', because I've never had a baby before, and she said, 'You're gonna be absolutely fine', and then literally within seconds of him being born, I got it," he said. He told Seymour on Extra that his mother Julie was "really excited" and "touched" that the couple had decided to name the baby Eric, after Simon's father. He added: "I look at him, Eric, and I think of my dad all the time, so it's a really good thing." He said of life since the baby was born: "Lauren's actually been crying more than Eric, so I've had to put one of those pacifiers in her which she likes ... has to be fed every three hours, otherwise she gets a little bit grumpy, and Eric's absolutely fine!"

Chris Brown Ordered Back To Rehab By Judge

Los Angeles judge has ordered Chris Brown to stay in an anger management and drug rehab programme for another two months and then return to court. The R&B singer started the programme at a rehab centre in LA three months ago following his arrest over allegations he punched a man. The Grammy winner is still on probation following his attack on then-girlfriend Rihanna in 2009, and several subsequent incidents have risked violating the terms of his probation. The judge in California scheduled Brown's

next court hearing in LA for April 23. It will come after what is expected to be a brief assault trial in Washington DC earlier that month. In that incident, Brown and his bodyguard are accused of punching a photographer and breaking his nose outside a hotel where he had a nightclub appearance. Brown, 24, denies the charge. Brown's lawyers have asked the judge to await the outcome of the Washington case before hearing evidence on whether the musician should go to jail for a probation violation.

Northwest Express March, 2014

The WhistleBlast Quartet for Ballina Arts Centre

Country Music starlet Kimmie Rhodes Comes to Ballina Arts Centre

n Thursday 27th March at, 8pm Ballina Arts Centre welcomes Country Music starlet Kimmie Rhodes. The Texan singer-songwriter Kimmie Rhodes’s multi-platinum selling songs have been recorded by such stellar acts as Willie Nelson, Wynonna Judd, Trisha Yearwood, Amy Grant, Joe Ely, John Farnham, Waylon Jennings, Peter Frampton, Mark Knopfler and Emmylou Harris. A creative and prolific artist, she has recorded and released a total of fifteen solo albums, written and produced three musical plays and with a back catalogue of hundreds of songs; she also has published a book. Kimmie latest album, titled Kimmie Rhodes Covers. For the first time, the ‘songwriter’s songwriter’, puts down her pen to devote an entire album to singing the songs of others whose music, has served as milestones of her storied performing, recording career and her life. Her promotional tours have created a solid fan base in the U.K., Ireland and Europe. She has headlined with her band at festivals all over the world. So come along for a good old Hootenanny. Tickets: €15/€12 check www.ballinaartscentre.com for more information or call 096 73593

Ballina Arts Centre presents the WhistleBlast Quartet on Wednesday 12th March, 7.30pm. The WhistleBlast Quartet members include Ken Edge (Saxophones and Clarinet), Mary Curran (French Horn), Síle Daly (Oboe and Cor Anglais) and Andrew Synnott (Piano) they will perform for all ages in this fun-filled, informal and informative Family Concert. The Music will include Saint Saen’s Danse Macabre, Bizet’s Carmen Medley, well-known Irish tunes, a new work by composer John Buckley, film themes and many more! The Quartet prides itself on making live classical music accessible to all so please come along for some fun and great music. Tickets: €10/€5 check www.ballinaartscentre.com for more information or call 096 73593

Charles Dickens Classic David Copperfield

Martin McDonagh’s A Skull in Connemara On Tuesday the 18th of March, 8pm Ballina Arts Centre presents Martin McDonagh’s A Skull in Connemara. The play is produced by the Decadent theatre group under the direction of Andrew Flynn staring Garrett Keogh, Maria McDermottroe, Patrick Ryan and Jarlath Tivan. The play tells the story of Mick Dowd who is hired for one week each autumn to disinter the bones in certain sections of his local cemetery, making way for new arrivals. As the time approaches for him to dig up those of his own late wife, strange rumours regarding

his involvement in her sudden death seven years earlier begin to resurface… nosey neighbours, troublesome teenagers and an ambitious Garda contribute to this dark, funny play. Winner of the Evening Standard & George Devine Awards for Most Promising Playwright 1996. Martin McDonagh’s brilliant black comedy, A Skull in Connemara is one of McDonagh’s funniest plays. Nominated for an Olivier award in 1997 the play is guaranteed to make you laugh, squirm and avoid graveyards! This is a show not to be missed.

Tickets: €18/€15 check www.ballinaartscentre.com for more information or call 096 73593

allina Arts Centre presents a stage adaptation of the Charles Dickens Classic, David Copperfield on Friday 28th March, 8pm performed by Hotbuckle theatre Productions. The play is based on the Charles dickens novel David Copperfield. The play tells the story of when young David Copperfield’s sheltered life with his doting mother is thrown into turmoil when she marries the ruthless and violent Murdstone. Thrust into an uncaring world of poverty and hardship, David must work out who to trust if he is to grow into the man he should become. Gently guided by his closest friend Agnes and his eccentric aunt Betsey Trotwood, can David stay on his true path? Featuring iconic characters such as Uriah Heep and Wilkins Micawber. Charles Dickens’s David Copperfield has remained in the hearts of readers for generations. Capturing the haunting beauty of the

Yarmouth coast and bustling Victorian London, Hotbuckle use their distinctive style to tell this beloved story of Dickens’s

favourite child. Tickets: €15/€12 check www.ballinaartscentre.com for more information or call 096 73593

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Northwest Express March, 2014

S-Class Coupé combines modern luxury and state-of-the art technology.

Mercedes Benz says the new SClass Coupé combines the classic proportions of a large, sporty coupé with modern luxury and state-of-the art technology. As a world premiere, the breathtaking two-door coupé can be optionally equipped with the 'Magic Body Control' suspension system with curve tilting function. Additional technical highlights are the head-up display and touch pad feature. Optionally available expressive headlamps, each featuring 47 Swarovski crystals, produce a uniquely striking appearance. "As exclusive as it gets - the ultimate in aesthetic sportiness," said Ola Källenius, Member of the Board of Management, Sales and Marketing Mercedes-Benz Cars. "The breathtaking design of

the Concept S-Class Coupé, marked by sporty-classic proportions and sensual purity, is transferred to the seriesproduction S-Class Coupé virtually unaltered. "The large coupé has always been the supreme pinnacle of our model range and that's why it's now called the "S-Class" again." "The world premiere of the active curve tilting function demonstrates the possibilities offered by Mercedes-Benz Intelligent Drive," noted Prof Dr

Thomas Weber, member of the board of management of Daimler AG with Responsibility for Corporate Research and Mercedes-Benz Cars Development. "The vehicle leans into bends much like a motorcyclist, thereby reducing the lateral acceleration acting on the vehicle's occupants. "On country roads in particular, this means greater driving pleasure and ride comfort for our customers."

The new S-Class Coupé will have its world premiere at the Geneva International Motor Show (March 6-16 2014). The two-door car will be available with a 4663cc V8 biturbo engine. The S 500 Coupé has a nominal output of 455hp; its torque level peaks at 700nm. The sporty motoring experience is significantly enhanced by the emotional sound produced by the exhaust system.

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Northwest Express March, 2014

VW Caddy recalled

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olkswagen AG says that as part of its continuous vehicle field observation, Quality Assurance has detected defects on Caddy models. The ball pins, which attach the tailgate gas-pressure dampers to the vehicle, may be predamaged on the third-generation of Caddy models fitted with tailgates and built since 2003. To prevent the tailgate from dropping down unexpectedly if the ball pin becomes detached, a new mount for the gas-pressure damper will be fitted as a precaution and as part of a worldwide recall. This recall affects a total number of 589,000 Caddy models (523 vehicles in Ireland) that were built between November 2003 and January 2013 and are fitted with tailgates (not with folding doors fixed to the sides). VW says the vehicle owners affected will be informed.

ESB Electric Cars The ESB wants a team of 'ecar ambassadors' to drive electric cars as part of 'The Great Electric Drive' EV promotio It is inviting members of the public and the business community to take part in an electric car trial for 2014 - featuring a wide range of ecars. The ESB is looking for ambassadors across a wide variety of ages, lifestyles, occupations and commuting patterns to get involved in this initiative. The selected ambassadors will trial one of the following electric vehicles: the Nissan Euro LEAF, Renault Zoe, Renault Twizy, Renault Kangoo ZE commercial van, Mitsubishi iMiEV, Mitsubishi Outlander Plug-in Hybrid SUV, Citroen C Zero or the BMWi3. ESB ecars, in conjunction with European Programmes including TEN-T, Green eMotion, Mobi.Europe etc, is involved in a number of trials and surveys to analyse the charging infrastructure and collect data on ongoing consumer behaviour and trends. More details can be found on the ESB website.

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Northwest Express March, 2014

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Northwest Express March, 2014

Opel Rocks

ocking up to the Geneva Motor Show is Opel's urban minicrossover, the Adam Rocks.The latest edition to Opel's Adam range was previewed as a concept at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show, and after receiving a rapturous reception, the production model is poised to make a show debut a year later. Compared with other members of the Adam family, Rocks is taller, wider and tougher in appearance, while also offering a full-length, electric, folding canvas roof. Adam Rocks' new crossover body style is supported by a chassis that is raised 15mm with a wider stance. Agile parkour athletes, who move

from one place to another, negotiating urban obstacles in between, were the inspiration for this sporty crossover concept. Parts of the chassis system have been modified or re-tuned, including dampers, springs, the rear suspension geometry and steering. The higher, wider looks are matched by a choice of 17-inch or 18-inch alloy wheels. These can be further personalised with new wheel clips in 'Wild' design and different colours that are unique to Rocks. Protective, anthracitecoloured cladding is wrapped tightly around the Adam Rocks, giving it a tough, muscular look. The front trapezoidal grille, with a chrome central brand bar, is embedded in the cladding,

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while contrasting, satin chrome 'boomerang' elements frame the front fog lamps/indicator housings and the reversing/fog lamps at the rear. An integrated rear roof spoiler and LED daytime running lights also come as standard. Silver skid plates front and rear and a bold chrome exhaust complete the exterior design. New exterior paint colours will be introduced with Adam Rocks, starting with the vibrant yellow Goldbusters. Rocks is the first model to feature Opel's all-new, 1.0-litre, Ecotec Direct Injection Turbo three-cylinder engine. Opel says it raises the bar for threecylinder engine refinement, with up to 115hp and 166nm.

ore than half of truck drivers in Europe have problems with back, neck and shoulder pain, according to a study by Volvo Trucks. New Volvo Dynamic Steering makes it possible to control a truck with minimal effort - and reduces the risk of injury for the driver. Long days behind the wheel cause many truck drivers to feel pain in their upper back. Henrik Gustafsson, aged 27, is one of them. Five years ago, when driving long-haul transport to Norway, he developed a problem with a muscle behind his left shoulder. Gustafsson stopped driving long-haul because of this and started driving timber in the forest with his father. He also took up weight training, but the problem did not disappear completely. However, a year-and-a-half ago Gustafsson was given the opportunity to drive the new Volvo FH, equipped with Volvo Dynamic Steering, in field tests. Since then his back has felt much better. "The difference now is that I don't have to be on edge and drive in a guarded way. With Volvo Dynamic Steering the truck is very stable," he said. The problems associated with industrial injuries have long been recognised. In a study by Volvo Trucks involving 160 truck drivers in Europe, over half had problems with back, shoulder and neck pain. In the study, conducted in 2011 and 2012, the majority of participants were men who drove long-haul operations. Peter Bark, who conducts research on health and safety issues at the Transport Research Institute explained why: "Tightening muscles in the arms and neck, together with repetitive movements, put a large strain on certain muscle groups. "Tensing the shoulders also leads to fatigue, which can then spread to the back of the neck". The new Volvo Dynamic Steering greatly reduces the movements of the steering wheel, which would otherwise be created by uneven roads. It not only makes steering easier and more comfortable for the driver, it also impacts less on the muscles and joints in the long term.

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hile the next Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG has been rumored to get a new twin-turbocharged, 4.0-liter V8 with somewhere between 450 and 500 horsepower, the looks of the actual car have been a mystery â&#x20AC;&#x201C; at least until now. Our spy shooters have caught Affalterbach's latest creation during coldweather testing in Sweden, and it's surprisingly understated. The front and rear are still under camouflage, but a few details can be made out. The front air dam has been significantly enlarged, presumably to feed cool air to those two reputed turbos. At the rear, you can glimpse the quad

exhaust outlets integrated into the diffuser. The boot also appears to be hiding a tiny lip spoiler. The ride height also seems somewhat lower than stock, as would be expected for an AMG model. Otherwise, there aren't many changes on the outside â&#x20AC;&#x201C; at least not yet. There are still some lingering questions about the Mercedes' upcoming model. For example, we don't know if the C63 name is staying or if the smaller engine will force a change. The sport sedan is expected to be revealed by the early portion of 2015, but its official debut date and location remains unknown. Photo: autoblog.com

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Northwest Express March, 2014

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The information provided to you on this page is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for medical advice and it is important that you do not make medical decisions without first consulting your doctor or other healthcare professional.

Improve Your Hearing partner to sound off small two or three-second bursts around you. Then just point where the noise came from. Limit your choices initially to the eight compass points (including northeast etc). Later on, vary the drill by having your partner alter the distance at which he sounds off. You should not only name directions, but the approximate distance away from where the noise was made. Noise Filtering Exercise This drill is for filtering sound and it's simple to do also. Tune in to a station that plays a moderately fast music. It shouldn’t be too loud. Then, talk to a friend. Do not raise your voice and carry on a conversation without leaning in to hear-better. Then after a few minutes, add a second radio playing a different music. Then later throw in a third... you get the picture. This helps you filter out any extraneous noise and improves your ear's ability to pick out only the sounds you want to hear.

EARING is the ability to perceive sound by detecting vibrations through an organ such as the ear. It is one of the traditional five senses. The inability to hear is called deafness. Most people are prone to loss-of-hearing or getting bad hearing as they get older. Hearing cannot be restored with medicines. In such case, you will need hearing aids to compensate for your lack of hearing. This article will talk about the things you can do to improve your hearing now, while it's still fully functional. Here are five assorted tips and drills you can do to make sure you maintain your hearing ability.

Maintenance is Important Avoid loud noises, as these can damage your eardrums. Listening to loud music or with plug-in headphones as opposed to the foam or rubber types that just nestle on your ears is a quick way to lose hearing. Being subjected to incredibly loud, shrill, and irritating noises every day such as power tools in your workplace or road-works are detrimental to your hearing. Avoid them at all cost. Regular EENT (eyes, ears, nose & throat) Check-ups Add visiting an EENT doctor to your list of bi-annual check-ups alongside your usual ones, like vis-

JB’s DENTURE CLINIC Homes, Hospital, Nursing Homes. Appointments by arrangement Mon-Thu 9.30 - 6pm Fri 9.30 - 5pm

Garden/Tone St, Ballina

Tel: 096-72189 / 087-6389500

its to the dentist and general medical check-ups. This helps maintain all your senses, not just hearing. EENTs can give you preventive medications to treat any mild problems you may have with hearing before these worsen. Vitamins and Medication There are four vitamins and medications that have been tested and proven to help in the maintenance of hearing. These haven't been noted to significantly enhance a person's hearing acuity, but they have been known to prevent the deterioration of hearing ability. These four vitamins, with corresponding dosages, are the following: Acetyl-Carnitine (150mg

a day), Alpa-Lipoic acid (150 mg a day), Glutathione (50 mg a day), and Coenzyme Q10 (60 mg a day). Sound Source Location Exercise Here is the first drill for sharpening your hearing. This helps your ear's directional sense and requires a partner. Get some small noisemaker like a horn or even a small radio speaker. Go to a large room with very little acoustic bounce off and furniture. If you can do this in an open-air environment so much the better, but you'll look a bit funny to any passer-by so you might want to find a private spot. Now, the drill is simple. Starting at a regular distance get your

North West Counselling

Counselling for people with addictions eg. Drugs, Alcohol, Gambling • ALSO COVERS GENERAL COUNSELLING Counsellors are professionally trained • Relapse Programme and are fully accredited or working • One-to-one Counselling towards accreditation. • Referral system for private clients to White Oaks Rehabilitation Centre For appointments ring: 087-2879707 OR 074-9723822 • Addiction and General counselling available Afternoon, evening and weekend Email: tabourhouse2004@eircom.net Tabor House, Drimark, Donegal Town appointments available

Helping people to recover

Keeping Your Ears Clean Bacteria, (known as “wax”) builds up in ears very fast. Although this is the case, a small amount of bacteria is actually good for your ears. It protects the skin of the human ear canal, assists in cleaning and lubrication, and also provides some protection from other bacteria, fungi, insects and water. But excess wax can press against the eardrum and/or occlude the external auditory canal and impair hearing. That is why it is essential to use ear-buds or sprays to clean your ears twice or three times a month. Avoid cleaning your ears everyday as this will irritate your ears.

ARE YOU OVER WEIGHT? Something special coming up Safe Herbal Programme. Paddy and Mena MrDermott looking after your weight for over 14 years. Call: 048-66327490 Herbalife Distributors

Westport Foot Clinic Westport, Co. Mayo

Chiropodist: Martin Mc Nally Tel: 087 222 6260

“In Humbert’s Footsteps” launch at Belleek, Ballina

Kevin Connolly, Michelle Mulhern (TD), Johny O Malley, Steve Dunford & Brendan Flynn (Ballina Beverages)

Steve Dunford (organiser), Tony Clarke (Coillte), Audrey Robinson (Ballina Beverages), Kevin Connolly (Chamber of Commerce)

PROMOTING A HEALTHY & POSITIVE LIFESTYLE February 2014

Michelle Mulhern & Noel Gilard a decendent of the french soiliders who came here in 1798

DELIVERIES PICK UP AND DROP OFFS Man with own large van

Can deliver all OVER IRELAND Toys & Flat packs assembled House removals Deliveries Collections Nothing too small we can deliver 24/7

Simple ways to save on your cruise

GALWAY everyday & Nationwide

TELEPHONE: 087-0617364

New advice for new grandparents

Regulated by the Financial Authority Nationwide Service

OU T NOW I

Healthy Living Youth Boosters

! S T N E G A S W E N A L L GO O D N

Edward Neary & Co Chartered Quantity Surveyors & Loss Assessors We take the hassle out of your insurance claim - simply we act on your behalf; commercial or residential. Have you suffered flood, storm or fire damage? Burst Pipes, water or oil leaks, vandalism, business interferance?

• Bills of Quantities • Estimating Tenders • Dispute Resolution • Project Management

Housing Adaptation Grant for People with a Disability

A 2 NIGHT BREAK IN GALWAY!

We look after the paperwork in negotiating your insurance claim. We act on your behalf to get the best possible outcome.

Holborn St., Sligo

Tel: 071-9145320 • 086-3838837 Email: info@nearysurveyors.ie

Northwest Express June 20th, 2013

COMMERCIALS

2005 TRANSIT SWB, 2 Litre Diesel, Good COndition, DOE 12/13,Average milage, €2400 Tel: 087-1922872 BEDFORD DIESEL MOBILE LIBRARY 1990 import from UK. Fully serviced, automatic doors. All alloy body 18’ x 10’ high x 8’ width. Very small mileage, makes it ideal to camper or a site office. Price: €2,300 Tel: 085-7653336 03’ FORD TRANSIT White colour, 90'000 miles on the clock. Just had 1 owner from new. MOT, just expired, But will pass test. Van is ideal for a removals van, or conversion to camper van. Genuine reason for sale. Sligo area. Price: €1,300 ono. Tel: 086-0866592 VW CADDY DIESEL 02, DOE test 12 Months, 4

new tyres and timing belt and water pump done. €2,300. Tel: 086-8943676

JACOB EWE 4 HORN Pure blac scanned in lamb. Tel: 087-2853594

FEATURED

1998 TRANSIT TIPPER 52,000 miles. Tel: 087-6075089

MASSEY FERGUSON 690 Dutch import, 2WD, Recon engine, PTO Overhauler, mint condition. Tel: 0868191714

VIDEO CASSETTES TO GIVE AWAY Second hand and new, any charity organisation can avail of them. Tel: 0719189197

FARM EQUIPMENT & LIVESTOCK

CAR TRAILER Lightweight, 8x4, spare wheel, lights, ramp foor, suitable for lawnmower. €600. Tel: 089-4186059 HAY FOR SALE Top Quality squar ebales of hay suitable for sheep or horses in Dromore West area. Also New Wings / Mudguards for Fergusson 20 Diesel or 35. 0894186059 SELECTION OF HORSE DRAWN FARM MACHINERY From €80 up. Tel: 0894186059

Telephone 048-6634-8671

info@presleyjoinery.com

Bellanaleck Co. Fermanagh

PURE BRED CHARLOIS BULL CALF 7 months old. Tel: 086-3383391 7.5 TONNE LOADS OF FIREWOOD and Turf. Tel: 087-1413238 GREENHOUSE FOR SALE. 8x6ft aluminium with safety glass. Comes with free wormery (all alive and wiggling!) €200. (086) 1700315 SCHRIEBER UNIT TV Display cabinet, perfect condition, size 160cm high x 150cm wide. First to see will take home. Free to take away. Tel: 071-9150583 or 087-2562164

MODERNLY EQUIPPED AND SPACIOUS HAIR SALON Excellent location in cnetre of small town, great business opportunity for experienced hairstylist. Call: 086-3564804 COLLIE P. BRED FEMALE Starting to work, good focus on sheep, very quiet for children, black with half white head. €200 Young dogs “coming on” available sometimes. West Sligo Tel: 086-0396536 REAL AUTHENTIC JEWELLERY 2 x Women's Rings. 1 x 25carrot. Also Diamond

SHANE CANAVAN TV SATELLITE AND SERVICES

For all our needs in home entertainment contact Shane on 087-271-1217 or email: cavanshane@gmail.com

Manufacturers of

• Quality Staircases • Bespoke Joinery •Doors • Frames • Windows

• Free to air Satellite Systems • Saorview / Freesat • Audio Systems • Combi Systems • Satellite Installation and repairs • Sky Repairs • Cameras

FREE PRIVATE CLASSIFIED

embraced Broach available. Sligo Town area. Please call 087-7128857 If there is no answer, please txt details, & I will call back. PRICE NEGOTIABLE

Rathedmond Road, Finisklin, Sligo 071-919 2011

MOTORS

PARTS OR REPAIR 1.8 Diesel 1.8 Astra 2001, Gold in colour, coupe, 3 door, good tyres, NCT Feb 14, Electrics problems, exhaust fell off! Good car nice to frive. All electrics. €400 Tel: 085-1851265 WANTED: FORD FOCUS 1.4 HATCHBACK 2002002 Must have NCT,Will pay up to €1100. Call Gerard on 086-2102214 2002 TRANSIT MWB Diesel, Great condition inside and outside. 140,000 miles, serviced, DOE 12/13 €1800. New tyres. Tel: 086-8981773 2005 MITSUBISHI CARISMA 1.3 Petrol, 90,000 km, classic, abs, power steering, electric windows, full leather, central console anti roll bar bushings only. Serviced. New tyres.€850 Tel: 087-4151430 2001 TOYOTA CELICA Coupe, 1800cc, 140 BHP, Black, NCT Aug 2014, air con, cd player, all electrics, fogs, S/l, new tyres, disc pads etc. immac Condition. Tel: 087-225-0744 Sligo area. 2008 DAIHATSU TERIOS 1.5 grey metallic, only 27,000 miles, ABS brakes, light on fuel, alloy wheels, electric windows, roof rails, tinted / privacy glass, petrol engine, beautiful condition, NCT April 2014, well looked after and serviced. Spare wheel never used. Tel: 087-9429954

General Hardware, Sliding Door Gear, uPvc Door & Window Fittings, Kitchen & Bedroom accessories Fitting Service Available

BUY ONLINE @ www.silvershardware.com

D.C WELDING Lifestock feeding equipment made to customer own needs Mobile welding service General farm repairs

Contact Declan, Claremorris, Co.Mayo.

Tel: 086-2291268

WRITE YOUR ADVERT HERE:

NO. OF ISSUES TO APPEAR IN (MAX 3) : HEADING TO APPEAR UNDER: SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS: THE FOLLOWING DETAILS ARE FOR OFFICE USE ONLY AND WILL NOT BE PUBLISHED. These details MUST be completed for all adverts NAME: ADDRESS:

TELEPHONE NUMBER: EMAIL: Please tick if you do not wish to avail of offers and information Northwest Express may offer from time to time

(MAX 30 WORDS) Post the completed form to FREE CLASSIFIEDS, Northwest Express, Office 3, Unit 7, North West Business Park, Collooney, Co. Sligo STRICTLY PRIVATE ADVERTISERS ONLY - BUSINESSES CAN CALL 071-9154538 AND SPEAK TO ONE OF OUR FRIENDLY SALES REPRESENTATIVES ABOUT OUR EXCELLENT RATES.

Northwest Express March, 2014

47 BUILDING

Tom Vesey Precast Concrete Aluminium Soffit & Fascia Covering Mayo & West Sligo

Tel 096-45423 or 087-2858333

IRISH AGRÉMENT BOARD BUILDING PRODUCT CERTIFICATION

CERTIFICATE No. 96/0072 SR6 1991

• Twin Chamber Septic Tanks • Septic Tanks • Water Harvesting Tanks • Bio Treatment Tanks • Chimney Caps & Kerbs • Paving slabs & Ballustrades • Readymix Concrete available for collection • Off standard items made to order

• • • • • • • •

Grinder Pumps Waste Water Pumps Flower Pots Georgian Columns Fencing & Gate Posts Lintens & Sills Flue Starters Cattle Grids

For Quality And Keenest Prices in Connaught, deliveries to all areas!

Graffymore, Newport Road, Castlebar, Co Mayo

Tel: 094-90 236 39 •FAX: 094-90 264 66 email: veseyconcrete@eircom.net www.tomveseyconcrete.com Visit www.dg-upvcwindows.com

Loftus Guttering Services Facia Soffit Supplied and Fitted uPVC / Aluminium / Seamless Gutters Choice of Colours White, Cream, Black, Red, Blue, Brown and Green Woodgrain Boards in Light Oak, Mahogany, Cedar Wood and Black Ash C2 Reg. Killasser, Swinford, Co, Mayo

Covering County Mayo, Sligo & Roscommon

Tel: 087-2387338

PML WINDOWS & DOORS • Conservatories • Windows & Doors • Fasia, Soffit & Guttering • Full Replacement Work & New Work Carried Out • Maintenance Work Carried Out To A High Level

Keep The Heat in your home

Change The Pane Keep the Frame

Mob: 086-605-8838

Email: mike@pmlwindows.com

CONCRETING

• Replace Fogged Up Glazing • Upgrade to Low E Glass... 60% more Efficient • Upgrade Single To Double Glazing

We also provide a 24 Hour Emergency Glass replacement service to the Sligo area

All types of concreting

Floors, Footpaths, Streets, Kerbs, Brick Paving, Tarmacadam, etc Call Seamus: 086-8617606

Your Advert Here!

NOEL DALY Mobile: 086-3670879

Supplied and Fitted All Grant Work Undertaken

Whitethorn & Beech Hedging Trees and more • Aeos & REPS Specialists • All trees and tree plants • Trees from €2.00 • All year round planting • Best Value Trees in Ireland. We pride ourselves on our truly friendly and efficient service.

Tel: 087-2743914 24 HR www.irishshamrocktrees.com

TILING

• Limestone • Ceramic • Quarry • Mosaic • Granite • Porcelain • Terracotta

Irish Shamrock Trees

Specialising in Wetrooms, Detailed Tiling and Bathroom Construction From Start to Finish, including Plumbing and Electrical.

Tel: 087-287-9904

Northwest Express March, 2014

48 BUILDING

Remodels Extensions Maintenance

• Safe Removal of red staining from dash walls without the need for powerwashing or other harsh treatments.

C2 Reg • Insured • 30 years experience

•Remove moss, lichen and algae from walls, patios, decking, concrete and driveways etc.

Building Contractors

• Professionally trained team. • Prices from €170 for a complete exterior treatment.

Call Eddie McDaid

TELEPHONE: 087-7589202 www.algoclearpro.ie • edwardmcdaid@gmail.com

MAINTENANCE MAN All new construction, extensions and renovations Covering: Sligo, Leitrim, Roscommon and Mayo

Tom 0876786275

NO JOB TOO BIG OR TOO SMALL

D.G. Blocklaying & Sub-Contractor

• No Job too Big or Small • Free Quotations Tel David: 087-1219658

Prop. Kevin Burns Belcoo, Co. Fermanagh

Suppliers & Installers of uPVC Windows & Doors

Plastering & Building Contractor

• 1st and 2nd Fix • Kitchens • Flooring • Roofing • Decking • Wardrobes • A!c Conversions

GLASS PARTS ETC REPLACED Brendan Gormley

CHIMNEY REPAIRS IRELAND • 20 year guarantee • 25 years experience • Relining and rebuilding • Smoke and soot problems solved • Free estimates • Free assistance with insurance claims

• Drainage • Footpaths • Brick Paving & Kerbing • Ra! Founda"ons • Plant Hire

071-9183860

3 Ton Dumper / Digger & Roller For Hire

087-2562669

JOHN HASTINGS: 087-2416533

MAKERS, SUPPLIERS & FITTERS MACE MIDDLE, CLAREMORRIS.

White, Wood Grain and Light Oak Finish All Windows Internally Glazed

www.mcganns.com

Tel: 087-2443903 After 6pm Tel: 048-66386525

• Angles • Beading • Centre Pieces • Corbels • Corner Pieces • Cornices • Dado Rails • Niches • Plaques

For all your carpentry needs at keen rates

HOUSE SERVICES & SEPTIC TANKS

TO WINDOWS, DOORS & PATIO DOORS

Athlone Road, Longford Tel: 043-3345721 & Golf Links Road, Roscommon Tel: 090-6637620

North West Windows

Tom Cawley

087-2218487

10,000 Sq ft showrooms the bigest in the West of Ireland • Bathroom suites •Tiles •Shower Doors Timber flooring and much more under one roof

www.chimneyrepairs.ie

Call Gerry on 086-8547841 / 086-2343447

Phone for a FREE QUOTE

Bathroom wall and floor tiles from €6.99 sq yd Porcelian Floor tiles from €12.95 sq yd

Tel : Office 1800 283067 / 087-7997671

• Carpentry • Plumbing • Electrical • Painting • Decoration • Block Walls • All Household Maintenance

• Extensions • Renovations • Dry Lining • C2 Reg & Insured

Tile & Bathroom Centre

Complete Chimney Care and Repair

A full listing of products and rates are available on request

TELEPHONE: 094-9388208 MOBILE: 087-2503184

Modern Chimney Cleaning Stoves, Ranges, Open Fires Chimney Fire Repair, Rebuild, Reline Camera Inspection Fully Insured 25 Year Guarantee All Counties Covered North and South Contact John: 087-6257243

email: doortec2@hotmail.com - Mobile: 087-2725297

Northwest Express March, 2014

BUILDING

CHIMNEYS

SKIP HIRE Septic Tank Emptying

Cashel Chimney Repairs Ltd Reline & Rebuild - Years of Experience Free Quotes and Surveys No height restrictions - Nationwide - Suppliers and fitters of Stoves - Attic Insulation

Frank Gallagher, O’Connell Street, Ballymote, Co. Sligo

We also fit Tanks, Percolation Areas, Polishing filters, Pumps etc

Tel: 071-9197777 / 087-2311754

Tel: 091-770775 / Pat 087-2458126

E-mail: cashelchimneyrepairsltd@gmail.com

Waste Permit No. wwcpo-12-11041

GLASS Gilroy Glass Ltd LG & GLAZING Hazelwood Rd, Sligo

• Manufacturers of double glazed units to trade and retail

www.lg-glass.ie

• Stockists of all types of glass • Glass cut while you wait

Tel: 071-9145400 Fax: 071-9140132 Mobile: 087-2341 985

CHIMNEY PROBLEMS

National Guild Of Master Craftsmen CALL PAT: 087 250 0636 091 789 836 CALL GABRIEL: 087 226 6236 093 287 75

FREEFONE: 1800 200 510

Relining, Repairing, Rebuilding Normally no opening of walls , Free Insurance Quotes, National Guild of Master Craftsman NATIONWIDE SERVICE

Oil Kits Supplied and Fitted, Stoves and Ranges Fitted

Damaged Chimney Repair Contractors Rapid Repair Service Decorative Mirrors Glass Shower Units Coloured Glass Internal Doors Glass Stairs & Balustrade

Tel: 087-6196013 / 085-1248560 Email: info@ballinachimneys.ie

RELINE • REBUILD • REPAIR

• All Work Certified • Minimum Disruption • 30 Years Experience • Nationwide Service

Re-lining Re-building Stove Installation Twin wall flue specialists insurance claims processed

Fully Insured and Free Quotes

info.damchimney@gmail.com

• Replace your existing double glazed units with energy efficient units •Complete glazing service

0911

CHIMNEY FIRE

Westport Road, Castlebar

Tel: 094-9022000

Thermal Imaging Smoke Testing Draught Testing Problem Solving CCTV Chimney Inspections

Declan 087-9974893

Your Advert Here! GARDENING AND SHEDS

EAST BROTHERS GARDEN MACHINERY Doon Boyle, Co. Roscommon Tel: 071-9662710, www.eastmachinery.ie

Doon Boyle, Co. Roscommon Tel: 071-9662710 www.eastbrothersmachinery.ie

www.fuchsialandscapes.com

• Garden Design • Remodelling & Landscaping • Maintenance Contracts • Domestic & Commercial • Tree Surgery & more Fetac & NPTC Certified Fully Insured

Tel: 087-7590677 • Mayo: 094-9014053 Galway 091-423740 • Meath 045-810096

WHEELIE BIN SERVICE SKIP HIRE (All Sizes)

096-32500 www.loftusrecycling.com

Chainsaws, Tillers, Outboard Motors, Power Washers, Generators, Electric Fences, Farm Machinery Spares

EMERGENCY STORM CALL OUT SERVICE Tel: 090-9684700 • 086-8076766 • 086-3543928

• Emergency Tree Removal • Woodchipping Service • Dangerous Tree Removal / Felling • Deadwooding • Crown Thinning and Reduction • Site Clearance • Hedge Cutting • Commercial and Domestic Email: connaught.tree.care@gmail.com • www.connaughttreecare.com

Northwest Express March, 2014

50 GARDENING AND SHEDS

INTERIOR AND UPHOLSTERY

MULTIPURPOSE GARDEN SHEDS & GARAGES

All the main supports of our garages are constructed of heavy duty box section steel for strength and durability and are hot dipped galvanised for longer Life. Our Units are built to withstand the harshest weather conditions.The sheeting is hot dipped galvanised and pvc coated to the colour of your choice. “You tell us the size you want and we will price on that exact size” Sheds delivered & Erected Nationwide For no extra cost

Furniture recovering and restoration including covering of chairs, 3 piece suites, headboards, car seats and boat seats. Hotel and Bar seating, Office furniture and other Contract / Commercial furniture. Repair of sails, tents and other outdoor gear for sports and leisure. We provide a service of Colour consultancy and Interior advice. We retail upholstery fabrics and essentials. Collection and delivery can be arranged at a small fee, depending on distance.

Boradruma, Snugboro, Castlebar • Tel: 094 9023532 / 086 8350608 Open Monday - Friday: 9am - 5pm • Visit us online at www.boradrumaupholstery.ie

SPECIAL OFFERS

3M X 3M (10’ X 10’)...............................................€850 2M X 2M (7’ X 7’)...................................................€750 2.5M X 1.8M (8’ X 6’)...................................€450 6M X 9M (20’ X 30’).............................................€3900 CALL US TODAY FOR MORE SPECIALS!

Bar, Hotels Private Houses All Upholstery undertaken Huge Selection of fabrics Contact: 086-8361070 or 071-9622700

Contact: Ray Lynch Corlis, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon Clare Office - Contact Eugene at the Indoor Market - 085-2188506 Phone: 086-8943034 or 094-9621938 AGENTS REQUIRED

PLUMBING AND HEATING

INSULATION PRODUCTS

GERARD

DEVANEY

www.superiorinsulations.ie

Superior Insulations, Charlestown, Co. Mayo

Lo Call: 1890 253 221

Contact our Friendly Sales team on 071-9154538 for details of our excellent advertising deals

Just pay for the cost of the insulation job less the SEAI grant amount!

Your Advert Here!

Pay €500 Less for Cavity & Attic Insulation Pay up to €3850 less for External Insulation

The complete plumbing & heating Service. Tel: 071 9168046 Mob: 087 2903690

The Biggest & Best Value Fireplace Showrooms in Ireland

Save €€€s by calling to us Fireplaces • Stoves • Gas • Oil• Solid Fuel • Electric • Granite Worktop Specialists

086 731 2801

Sligo Road, Enniskillen. Phone: 048 66 326 327 Kiltimagh, Co.Mayo

RIGHT PRICE FIREPLACES & STOVES €200 SCRAPPAGE

• Heating Control Upgrades • Boiler Service & Installation • Solar Panels

SCHEME

Full Plumbing & Heating Services Available National Guild Of Master Craftsmen

Mobile: 086-2380126 Phone: 094 9382459 info@ecoheating.ie www.ecoheating.ie

SCRAP METAL

OUR PRICES WILL NOT BE BEATEN! Eﬀrinagh Village, Carrick-on-Shannon, Co. Leitrim Tel: 071-9623345 / 086-6073181

TERRYS STOVES www.terrysstoves.com

• Free Survey available • Solid Fuel Stoves • Gas Fires

people with energy

When buying a stove you need good information on the wide range that is available I will help you get the product that best suits your needs.

Buy Once! Buy Right!

Phone: 087‐2066910 or 071‐9197925

SCRAP METALS

WANTED Mohill Road, Carrigallen • WFPLM1000102

For all your scrap Metal Needs • Copper • Brass • Lead • Batteries • Alloys • Cars (ATF) • White Goods • Farm Machinery... etc Collection Service Available Top Prices Paid Contact Mark: 083-150-1833

Northwest Express March, 2014

51 WATER TREATMENT AND SEWAGE SYSTEMS

No.1in the No.2 Business... • Domestic Drain Cleaning • Emergency Service Call Out • Commercial Drain Cleaning • Man Hole Covers Replaced • Odours Investigated • High Velocity Water Jetting • Annual Maintenance Contracts • CCTV Drain Inspection

• Septic Tank Cleaning

Bonniconlon Road, Ballina Sep!c Tank Upgrading

• Pre Cast Sep!c Tanks / Supplied & Fi"ed • Wastewater Treatment Systems • Ter!ary Treatment for Enhanced Treatment Levels EN Cer!fied • Pump Sta!ons for Domes!c & Commercial use • Over 20 Years Experience • Service and Repairs to most models of Treatment System • All Groundwork Services / Machine Hire • Agent for Bord Na Móna / Anua Environmentals • Covering the North West

email: wimsey@eircom.net

Contact Damien: 087 297 4842 or 071 916 8086

M.D.S

24 Hr Emergency Service 365 Days

Maintenance & Drainage • Sewer Pipe, Drain & Gully Cleaning • Septic Tanks & Grease Traps Cleaned • Toilets, Baths, Sinks - Odours Investigated • CCTV Pipe Surveying - Pipe Laying & Repair • Manhole Covers Replaced FREE ESTIMATES - C2 REG - FULLY INSURED

• Water Analysis • Water Filtration • Water Softening • Well Drilling • Pump Supplied and Fitted • Rain Water Collection & Purification • Sewage Treatment Systems IN THE BUSINESS FOR OVER 25 YEARS

For fast efficient service call your local engineer on:

Contact Michael 087-276-7003 / 096-70224 Email: Michaelegan1@eircom.net

SLIGO / LEITRIM 086-8106029 MAYO / GALWAY 086-8177634 ROSCOMMON / ATHLONE 086-3946395 Office: 096-29986 / Fax: 096-45223

Email: waterteck@eircom.net Website: www.waterteck.com Phone: 086-8072249 071-9658976

Dating Classifieds YOUNG GENTLEMAN looking for friendship with view to relationship with lady 50-70. In love with older ladies, likes swimming, walking and cinema. Tel/Text: 089-4771591 RETIRED LADY Likes TV, Cinema, Theatre, and social evenings. WLTM Gent 60+ of similar interestes. Replies to Box 998 the usual address along with a Stamped Envelope ROSCOMMON MAN Seeks curvy femlae, medium height aged 24-45 for friendship and fun. Anytime, can travel. Call or text: 086-3968335 LONELY MAN Kind hearted, loving, honest and caring would like to meet a single girl Filipina or other country in

the world for loving relationship. Call or text Tel: 085-1481578 GALWAY MAN, SPERATED No ties, smoker, social drinker, mid fifties, enjoys all outdoor life WLTM, genuine and honest lady for friendship and share my life with. Replies to box number 1045 at the usual address address along with a Stamped Envelope WIDOWER, 65 seeks lady for friendship, companionship and maybe romance, N/S, S/D. Enjoys nature, seaside, cinema, food, coversation, line dancing and travel. Replies to Box number 1025 at the usual address address along with a Stamped Envelope

WIDOWER OVER 60 Would like to meet lady in similar position for friendship and maybe a little romance. Enjoys nights out, cinema and all sports. Replies to Box 1024 at the usual address address along with a Stamped Envelope. MALE 40 SEEKS Female. I am single, fit outdoors guy. Call or text 0876467174 SINGLE SINCERE LADY LATE 40’S - Interested in meeting a kind and loving male for friendship / relationship. No seperated or divorced. Replies to Box number 1044 at the usual address. EAST MAYO MALE Wants to meet others males for friendship. Own Place. Call: 086-2550981

FREE DATING CLASSIFIED *

OUTGOING SLIGO LADY (61) Likes dancing, swimming, hillwalking, travel, reading, S/D, N/S, interested in meeting honest caring male, similar age and interests for friendship maybe leading to a relationship. Replies to box number 1016 GENT Enjoys swimming, keep fit, walks, conversation, eating in and out, loking for a honest and caring aldy 50-65 ish as a friend and companion. Replies to Box number 1028 at the usual adress. MAYO MAN Would like to meet a nice lady any age, so I can put a lovely smile on your face, discreet and nice time. Would you like? Tel: 087-6372540

TALL, DARK AND HANDSOME MALE Seeks Female for discrete fun, discretion assured. Can Travel. Call: 085-1924230 GENUINE SINGLE MAN Late 40 's, 6ft tall, GSOH, N\S, looking for a Lady 45 - 55. For fun, & romance. Likes eating out, keeping fit, cinema, music. S/D Call or text: 086-0368137

GORGEOUS 51 YEAR OLD GENTLEMAN Kind, caring, loving and sincere seeks Eastern European lady for lasting

friendship. Replies to box number 991 at the usual address along with a stamped envelope

ROSCOMMON GENT 4Would like to meet curvy lady aged 22-45 for discreet fun. Can travel. Call or text: 086-3968335 MALE WLTM CURVY LADY 23-48 For discreet fun and friendship, Text or call: 086-3968335

WRITE YOUR ADVERT HERE:

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All applicants are individually matched by me - Call Jane on 087-3345116

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(MAX 30 WORDS) Post the completed form to FREE CLASSIFIEDS, Northwest Express, Office 3, Unit 7, North West Business Park, Collooney, Co. Sligo

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Northwest Express March, 2014

PRE REG 141 Cars 141 G VW Passat 2.0TDI140BHP H/L 6 Sp Black Met ..................................................................€36,500 141 G VW Passat 1.6TDI Comfortline Estate Grey ...................................................................€31,000 141 G VW Beetle 1.6TDI Black....................€24,500 141 G VW Up 5DR Automatic......................€15,500 141 G VW Tiguan 2.0TDI Life /Leisure White ..................................................................€30,000 141 G VW Golf 1.6TDI Sports Model Black..€25,500 141 G VW Polo 1.2TDI Comfortline Black Met ...................................................................€19,500 141 G VW Passat 1.6TDI Comfortline...........€28,500 141 G VW Jetta 1.6TDI Comfortline..............€26,500 141 G VW Touran 1.6 TDI 7 Seater..............€29,500 141 G VW Polo 1.2 5DR..............................€16,500 PRE REG COMMERCIALS 141 G VW Transporter 2.0TDI 140BHP 6Sp..€27,500 141 G VW Transporter 2.0TDI 84BHP...........€22,500 141 G VW Crafter 136BHP Trendline Pack....€31,500 141 G VW Amarok Highline 180BHP............€42,000 141 G VW Caddy TDI..................................€15,200 141 G VW Golf TDI Van..............................€23,950 BEETLE RANGE 141 G VW Beetle TDI...................................€24,500 131 G VW Beetle TDI...................................€22,500 2007 VW Beetle 1.4 Cabriolet (12K)............€10,500 2007 VW Beetle 1.4......................................€8,500 2004 VW Beetle 1.9TDI..................................€7,500 TIGUAN RANGE 132 G VW Tiguan 2.0TDI 140BHP................€32,500 132 G VW Tiguan 2.0TDI Sports 4x4 140BP.€34,500 131 G VW Tiguan 2.0TDI Sports...................€29,500 2012 VW Tiguan TDI....................................€24,500 2011 VW Tiguan TDI....................................€22,500 2010 VW Tiguan TDI 140BHP.......................€19,500 2008 VW Tiguan TDI 140BHP 4x4................€13,500 PASSAT RANGE 2013 VW Passat 1.6TDI BM.........................€22,500 2013 VW Passat 2.0TDI 140BP Comfortline...€28,500 2012 VW Passat 1.6TDI Comfortline.............€24,000 2012 VW Passat 1.4 TSI C/L A/T.................€22,500 2011 VW Passat 1.4 TSI C/L A/T..................€21,000 2011 VW Passat 1.4 TSI Highline Alcantara Leather ..................................................................€22,000 2011 VW Passat 1.6TDI................................€19,500 2010 VW Passat 1.6TDI................................€14,500 2009 VW Passat TDI....................................€13,500 2007 VW Passat TDI Comfortline....................€8,500 2008 VW Passat 1.4TSI Comfortline.............€10,500 2008 VW Passat 1.9 TDI...............................€11,500 2008 VW Passat 1.4TSI Highline Full Leather.€10,500 2006 VW Passat 1.9TDI Estate........................€7,950 2006 VW Passat 1.9TDI Comfortline...............€6,500 2006 VW Passat 1.9TDI Comfortline...............€5,000 2006 VW Passat 1.9TDI Comfortline...............€4,000 PASSAT CC RANGE 132 G VW Passat CC 140BHP Grey..............€34,500 131 G VW Passat CC 140BHP Choice...........€32,500 2012 VW Passat CC 140BHP White..............€29,500 2011 VW Passat CC 140BHP Beige...............€25,000 2010 VW Passat CC 140BHP Gold................€21,000 2009 VW Passat CC 140BHP Black...............€18,500 JETTA RANGE 131 G VW Jetta 1.6 Highline........................€25,500 2013 VW Jetta 1.6TDI Comfortline...............€22,500

2012 VW Jetta 1.4TSI Comfortline A/T.........€22,500 2012 VW Jetta 1.6TDI..................................€19,500 2011 VW Jetta TDI........................................€17,500 2011 VW Jetta 1.6TDI A/T............................€19,500 2010 VW Jetta TDI Comfortline.....................€14,950 2010 VW Jetta TDI T/L.................................€13,500 2009 VW Jetta 1.6 C/L................................€11,500 2008 VW jetta 1.9 TD..................................€10,500 2008 VW Jetta 1.9TDI Comfortline A/T.........€12,500 2007 VW Jetta 1.9TDI...................................€8,500 2006 VW Jetta TDI........................................€6,500 GOLF RANGE 2013 VW Golf TDI Sports Model .................€22,500 2012 VW Golf “ R” Line...............................€21,500 2012 VW Golf TDI Sports Model..................€19,500 2011 VW Golf TDI........................................€16,950 2011 VW Golf TDI ”R”Line...........................€19,500 2010 VW Golf TDI Highline Extras................€16,500 2010 VW Golf 1.4 5 Dr ...............................€13,500 2010 VW Golf 1.4TDI Trendline....................€13,500 2010 VW Golf 1.6TDI A/T............................€15,500 2009 VW Golf 1.9TDI .................................€12,500 2009 VW Golf 1.4 5Dr................................€11,500 2009 VW Golf 2.0TDI 5DR..........................€13,500 2009 VW Golf 1.9TDI Comfortline A/T..........12,500 2009 VW Golf 1.9TDI 5DR GT Sport.............€11,000 2008 VW Golf 1.4 5DR.................................€9,500 2007 VW Golf 1.9TDI 5DR.............................€7,500 2006 VW Golf 1.4 5DR Sports Model ...........€6,000 2006 VW Golf 1.9TDI....................................€6,500 2005 VW Golf 1.9 TDI...................................€5,500 2004 VW Golf TDI Comfortline......................€4,500 POLO RANGE 132 G VW Polo 1.2 5DR ............................€15,000 131 G VW Polo Cross 1.2TDI 5DR................€18,500 131 G VW Polo Cross 1.2TSI........................€16,500 131 G VW Polo 1.2TDI ................................€16,500 132 G VW Polo 1.2 5DR..............................€14,500 2012 VW Polo 1.2TDI ..................................€13,950 2011 VW Polo TDI........................................€12,500 2011 VW Polo 1.2 5DR.................................€11,500 2010 VW Polo 1.2 5DR................................€10,500 2010 VW Polo 1.6TDI Highline Model 90BHP ...................................................................€12,500 2009 VW Polo 1.4 TDI Sports Model..............€9,500 2008 VW Polo 1.2 5Dr Comfortline................€8,000 2007 VW Polo 1.2 TDI...................................€7,500 2005 VW Polo 1.2 5DR.................................€4,500 2004 VW Polo 5DR.......................................€3,500 2003 VW Polo 1.2 5DR.................................€2,500 AUDI RANGE 2011 Audi A4 2.0TDI...................................€22,500 2009 Audi A4 2.0TDI..................................€15,000 2006 Audi A6 2.0TDI 140BHp.....................€10,500 2006 Audi A6 2.0TDI A/T Full Leather..........€16,500 2006 Audi A4 2.0TDI A/T..............................€8,500 2008 Audi A3 2.0TDI 5DR...........................€13,500 2004 Audi A3 1.6.........................................€4,500 MERCEDES RANGE 2008 Mercedes C180 Kombi A/t..................€13,500 2006 Mercedes ML 270CDI Comm Estate.......€8,500 2005 Mercedes C200 DSL.............................€7,500 2002 Mercedes C270 DSl A/T.......................€3,500 2001 Mercedes C200....................................€3,000 2000 Mercedes C220 DSL..............................€3000 NISSAN RANGE 2011 Nissan Micra 1.05DR...........................€10,500

2011 Nissan Juke 1.5 DSL ( 19K)...................€16,500 2011 Nissan Qashqui 1.5 DSL.......................€19,500 2007 Nissan Micra 1.0 5DR...........................€5,000 2007 Nissan Almera......................................€6,500 2006 Nissan Almera......................................€5,000 2005 Nissan Almera......................................€3,500 2004 Nissan Xtrail 5 Seater............................€5,500 ESTATE CARS 141 G VW Passat 1.6TDI Comfortline Estate..€31,000 131 G VW Passat 1.6TDI Estate....................€26,500 2012 VW Passat 2.0TDI 140BHP Highline Estate Leather .......................................................€27,500 2009 VW Passat TDI Estate Highline Leather..€14,500 2008 VW Passat 1.9TDI Estate......................€11,500 2006 VW Passat 1.9TDI Comfortline Estate......€7,950 2005 VW Passat 1.9TDI Estate.......................€6,500 2002 VW Passat 1.9TDI Estate.......................€3,500 7 SEATER RANGE 141 G VW Touran TDI................................€29,500 2013 VW Sharan TDI...................................€29,500 2013 VW Caddy Maxi Life 7 Seater DSl........€27,500 2013 VW Touran 1.6TDI 5 Seater.................€26,500 2011 VW Caddy Maxi Life 7 Seater DSl........€21,500 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe 4X 4 DSL...............€13,500 2008 VW Touran TDI ..................................€10,500 2008 VW Shuttle 9 Seater............................€18,500 2007 Renault Scenic 1.9DSL Luxury Model......€7,500 2006 Opel Zafari 1.6....................................€6,500 2005 Mitsubishi Pajero 3.2 DSL A/T 7 Seater..€7,500 SHARAN RANGE 2011 VW Sharan 2.0TDI 140BHP 7Seater.....€29,500 2007 VW Sharan 1.9TDI 7 Seater.................€12,500 2006 VW Sharan 1.9TDI 7 Seater...................€7,500 2004 VW Sharan 1.9TDI 7 Seater..................€6,000 HYUNDAI RANGE 2009 Hyundai Getz 1.1 5Dr...........................€6,950 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe 2.2DSL 7 Seater......€13,500 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe 2.2DSL Commercial...€9,000 2006 Hyundai Tucson 2.0DSL Passenger.........€6,500 2005 Hyundai Accent 1.3 5Dr........................€3,000 2004 Hyndai Elantra 1.6................................€2,500 AUTOMATIC RANGE 141 G VW Polo 1.4 5DR Comfortline............€20,500 141 G VW Up 5DR .....................................€15,500 131 G VW Golf 1.6 TDI Plus Comfortline.......€24,500 131 G VW Golf TDI 5DR..............................€22,500 131 G VW Golf 1.6TDI 5DR Match...............€24,500 2012 VW Golf 1.6TDI 5DR sports ...............€21,500 2011 VW Golf 1.6TDI 5DR...........................€19,500 2011 VW Golf 1.6TDI Plus Comfortline..........€21,500 2010 VW Golf 1.6TDI 5DR Comfortline.........€16,500 2009 VW Golf 1.9TDI 5DR Comfortline........€13,500 131 G VW Jetta 1.6TDI Comfortline..............€23,950 2012 VW Jetta 1.6TDI ................................€21,000 2011 VW Jetta 1.6TDI..................................€19,500 2010 VW Jetta 1.9TDI Comfortline................€16,500 2009 VW Jetta 2.0TDI Comfortline...............€13,500 2008 VW Jetta 1.9TDI Comfortline................€11,500

FIAT RANGE 2012 Fiat Panda 1.2 5DR (13K)......................€9,500 2003 Fiat Punto 1.2 5DR................................€1,500 2001 Fiat Punto 1.2 5DR................................€1,000 OPEL RANGE 2012 Opel Astra DSl (SRI) 5DR.....................€15,500 2010 Opel Astra CTI DS...............................€11,500 2010 Opel Insignia 2.0DSL...........................€16,000 2008 Opel Corsa 1.3 CDTI............................€8,500 2008 Opel Corsa 1.2 5DR Club.....................€6,500 2007 Opel Corsa 1.2 5DR.............................€5,000 2007 Opel Vectra 1.6....................................€6,000 2006 Opel Astra 1.4 5DR..............................€5,500 2006 Opel Astra Van.....................................€5,000 2004 Opel Corsa..........................................€3,000 2003 Opel Astra 1.7 DSL...............................€2,500 TOYOTA RANGE 2012 Toyota Corolla D4D Luna DSL..............€18,500 2012 Toyota Auris Hybrid A/T......................€18,000 2011 Toyota RAV 4 DSL (10K)......................€22,950 2011 Toyota Corolla D4D.............................€15,000 2011 Toyota Avensis 2.0DSL.........................€18,500 2009 Toyota Yaris Luna..................................€8,500 2009 Toyota Avensis 2.0DSL........................€12,500 2008 Toyota Auris 1.4 5DR............................€8,000 2008 Toyota Yaris D4D..................................€8,500 2008 Toyota Avensis 2.0DSL..........................€9,500 2007 Toyota RAV4 2.0..................................€8,500 2007 Toyota Avensis 2.0DSL..........................€7,500 2006 Toyota Avensis 2.0DSL..........................€4,950 2006 Toyota Yaris 1.0 5DR.............................€6,000 THIS WEEKS BARGAINS 2010 Daihatsu Terious 1.5............................€10,500 2009 Opel Astra 1.7 DSL...............................€7,500 2008 VW Fox................................................€3,500 2008 Opel Corsa 1.2 5Dr..............................€6,500 2007 Ford Focus 1.6 DSL 5DR........................€7,500 2007 Peugeot 406 DSL..................................€4,500 2006 Ford Focus 1.4 5DR...............................€5,950 2006 Ford Fiesta 5Dr.....................................€5,000 2006 VW Passat 1.9TDI.................................€5,500 2005 Mercedes C200 DSL.............................€6,000 2005 Renault Laguna 1.8...............................€3,000 2005 Toyota Avensis 1.6................................€4,500 2004 Renault Megane 1.5DSL........................€2,500 2004 Mazda 1.6DSL.....................................€2,500 2004 Opel Corsa 1.0 5DR.............................€2,500 2004 Citroen Xsara 1.4..................................€2,500 2004 Opel Zafari 1.6 7Seater........................€2,500 2004 VW Passat 1.6Petrol..............................€4,000 2003 Renault Megane 1.4 H/B......................€2,000 2003 Ford Fusion 1.4DSL...............................€2,850 2002 Skoda 1.4.............................................€1,500 2002 VW Passat 1.9TDI Estate.......................€3,500 2002 Opel Corsa 5Dr ..................................€1,500 2002 Hyundai Getz 1.05DR...........................€1,500 1996 Mitsubishi Colt 1.3.................................€1,500

FORD RANGE 2012 Ford Fiesta 1.4DSL...............................€13,500 2011 Ford Focus 1.6 DSL Extras....................€14,500 2010 Ford Focus 1.6 DSL Extras....................€10,500 2010 Ford Mondeo 2.0DSL..........................€12,500 2008 Ford Mondeo DSL................................€9,500 2008 Ford Focus 1.4 5DR...............................€8,500 2003 Ford fusion 1.4 5DR A/T.......................€3,500

AL HAYES MOTORS LTD.

GALWAY RD., PORTUMNA, CO. GALWAY Tel: 090 9741390, 090 9742200 Tuam: 093 26411

www.alhayesmotors.com

AL: 086-2449645 • DAMIEN: 087-2368841 • DEREK: 086-8119141 • NIALL: 087-6385033 • ALAN: 087-4153872 • RONAN: 087-9031373