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26 April 2012 Issue 9 - Volume 13
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An Taisce condemns planning in west
“Flawed” report criticised A day out at the seaside
P
ERHAPS An Taisce, in its report “State of the Nation, a Review of Ireland’s Planning System. 2000-2011” has missed a golden opportunity to highlight the many failures in the Irish planning system which has led to many poor building decisions during the Celtic Tiger era. The report revealed that Donegal has the worst planning record in the country, closely followed by Roscommon, with Leitrim holding the number three (from the bottom) spot. Donegal was given a mark of 12 per cent (32 points) and Roscommon 16 (44 points). Mayo had been placed 5th from the bottom with 82 points. All counties were given the bottom (F) grade. By contrast, Sligo’s authority fared reasonably well, finishing up in 22nd position, (with an E grade of 117 points) from the 34 authorities in the Report. An Taisce, which attempted to identify “the worst councils in Ireland’s planning system”, had graded the counties’ local authorities based on eight different criteria. The categories included overzoning, decisions reversed by An Bord Pleanala after being passed by a local authority, percentage of vacant housing stock, and one-off houses permitted. The body had described the overall findings as “stark and troubling” and made a number of radical proposals. Continued on Page 2
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Minister of State for the OPW Brian Hayes, centre, on a visit Strandhill, Co. Sligo, yesterday to inspect the scene where severe erosion was caused to the walkway and sand dunes at the beach last year. Photo: James Connolly / PicSell8
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An Taisce condemns planning in west
New survey shows that 74% of Sligo people have taken part in a charity event Charity urges people to sign up for its Four Peaks Challenge in June or September to help raise over €500K in vital funds to combat homelessness
Lorraine Kelly, Mary McGuinness and Mark Slee of Focus Ireland Sligo, who are calling on locals to sign up to the charity’s Four Peaks challenge. Photo: James Connolly / PicSell8
A
NEW MRBI survey for Focus Ireland has shown that a massive 74% of big-hearted Sligo people have taken part in an event to raise vital funds for charity at some point in their lives. Focus Ireland issued the results of the survey as it called for people to sign up for the Focus Ireland Four Peaks Challenge which sees teams climb the highest peak in each of the four provinces over one weekend. Participants have an opportunity to take part in either June or September in 2012 with both events aiming to raise a combined total of over €500,000 in vital funds for Focus Ireland. The survey also found that a total of 48% of Sligo people have made the effort in the last year to help
raise money for hard-pressed charities as the impact of the recession on families and single people deepens in local communities nationwide. The Four Peaks Challenge supported by 100-102 Today FM - takes place on two weekends in 2012: June 8th -10th and September 14th – 16th. During the Four Peaks Challenge participants strive to climb the highest mountain in each of the four provinces - Carrauntoohil in Kerry, followed by Mweelrea in Mayo, Slieve Donard in Down and finally Lugnaquilla in Wicklow. Each Four Peaks Challenge team is made up of between three and five walkers plus two drivers. The Four Peaks Challenge weekends are Focus Ireland’s flagship fundraising
events and Focus Ireland is hoping to raise over €500,000 from both challenges. This money is vital to help fund Focus Ireland’s work to support people who are homeless and many thousands more at risk of losing their homes. A total of 90 cents out of every euro raised goes directly to support the charity’s crucial support services and housing programmes. Each team taking part in the Four Peaks has to raise €3,800 in sponsorship which works out at €633 per person in a team of six. The charity said it urgently needs the funds to help it cope with the growing demand for its support services which work to combat and prevent homelessness nationwide. The charity highlighted that there are up to 5,000 people homeless at any one time in Ireland and a shocking one in seven using homeless services is a child. The new Focus Ireland survey also found a keen interest in people taking part in a challenge event for charity (i.e. a sponsored walk/fun run/Triathlon/Marathon etc.) with just under 59% of people in Sligo having taken part/or intending to take part in just such an event. A total of 93% of people took part in these events solely to raise money for charity but just under 7% did it to help improve their fitness and to also lose weight. Meanwhile, Mary Jameson of Focus Ireland Sligo said: "The brave teams that have taken part in this adventure over the years have great stories to tell about the climbs, the high spirits, the encouragement, the breathtaking scenery and of
course the challenges they faced and overcame.” "There are other greater challenges faced by many in society, as over the last couple of years many families and individuals have been faced with the challenge of losing their job. Many have been hit by pay freezes or cuts and find themselves in mortgage arrears. People in the rented market have actually lost their home for these reasons and others.” She continued: “We work hard in Focus Ireland Sligo to provide services that are needed now more than ever to help people move on from homelessness. The reality is that Focus Ireland depends on events like the Four Peaks to bring in the vital funds to support people to move on in life. If people have been thinking about doing something to put themselves to the test while raising money for a good cause I would encourage them to sign up to the Four Peaks.” Along with training days to support participants, Focus Ireland has also launched a dedicated Facebook tab with information and advice on the challenge. The tab also includes training tips and nutritional advice before, during and after training. Participants can share this tab with their team at the click of a button by visiting facebook.com/focusirelandcharity. To sign up for the Four Peaks Challenge people can email events@focusireland.ie or phone 01-881 5900. Alternatively they can log on to www.focusireland.ie and click on the fundraising events section.
Continued from front page. However, an Taisce’s decision to omit the overzoning category from its final calculations, on the basis that overzoning gave unfair advantage to city councils, as cities are mostly zoned, weighted strongly against Mayo, as the county had performed strongly in this category, scoring 32 out of a possible 34. In fact, the revised figure (with overzoning included) pushes Mayo up to 12th from the bottom, with 114 points and into the E category with Sligo. All eight categories will now be included in a revised report and while it won’t make much of a difference to the rankings for most counties, it has resulted in what has now been described by many as a “flawed” report and showing a bias against rural counties. In a statement An Taisce said: “We are working on a new appendix . . . and will regrade the authorities accordingly. Whereas individual authorities may improve in their grading, it does not affect the overall messages of the report that there is a strong correlation between councils that have scored poorly and a range of negative socio-economic and environmental outcomes.” Mayo’s county secretary John Condon says the planning watchdog should withdraw the report completely. “We can’t take it seriously; it is full of errors and they should apologise for issuing such a bad report”. Spokespersons from Donegal and Roscommon councils also criticised the report, principally for lack of transparency in regard to how scores were attributed and mathematical errors in the scoring calculations. On face of it, while the report highlights some glaring deficiencies in the planning system, resulting in overturned decisions, “over-development” and many vacant houses, the decision to exclude the over-zoning factor, while maintaining the one-off housing figures (which are, of course, more likely in rural Ireland anyway) has produced skewed ranking results.
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PARTICIPANTS are now being sought for the upcoming Dragon’s Den styled event scheduled for Roscommon on Wednesday, May 23rd, and led by renowned Dragon Bobby Kerr. The event is funded by Roscommon LEADER Partnership and co-ordinated by WESTBIC. It is an idealopportunity for those budding entrepreneurs in the county with new business ideas, as well as those considering expansion of their existing enterprises, to present their proposals to a panel of experts and receive constructive feedback and advice. The event builds on similar events run in the county last year, when 16 projects were presented to the expert panel. According to event co-ordinator James Donlon “the objective is to provide as much encouragement as possible to new entrepreneurs, to assist them in evaluating their proposals and identifying the next steps they should take. Email: info@theexpress.ie Web: www.theexpress.ie Free Classifieds: info@theexpress.ie or visit www.theexpress.ie and click free classifieds.
Northwest Express April 26th, 2012
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Relay for Life Donegal Charity Cycle - Sunday 29th April
Top pic: Margaret Farrell and Andrew Keane Bottom pic: Winners: Caroline Wilson and Kevin McLoughlin.
Group of dancers who participated in Knockmore GAA’s successful event at Hotel Ballina
Consumer Protection Roadshow in Sligo THE Central Bank of Ireland is hosting a series of regional events throughout Ireland to engage directly with brokers/retail intermediaries, and to assist them in terms of compliance with requirements in relation to Consumer Protection Code, Minimum Competency and Fitness and Probity. These events will allow brokers the opportunity to meet with representatives of the Central Bank in person and put forward any questions they may have. The next event in the series is being held in the Radisson Blu Hotel, in Rosses Point, Sligo on Thursday 26th of April at 12.30pm. According to Director for Consumer Protection at the Central Bank, Bernard Sheridan ‘one of the goals of the Central Bank is to protect consumers and a large part of this is ensuring that people who sell financial products are suitable and qualified. The Central Bank requires that people working in defined roles selling financial products to consumers should be competent and capable, honest, ethical, should act with integrity and be financially sound’ The Central Bank has a number of statutory codes which must be adhered to
by sellers of financial products. The most significant of these, the Consumer Protection Code, first published in 2006 and revised for 2012, contains a number of significant provisions protecting consumers It’s important for consumers to know what they should expect from brokers and other authorised persons/firms selling financial products, for example: • Before a product is sold a seller must ‘get to know’ the consumer so they can recommend the most suitable product to match the needs of the consumer; • When information is given to a consumer about a product it must be clear, accurate, up to date, and written in plain English; • When a financial product is being advertised claims about the product must not be misleading; and • A regulated person/entity must have written procedures in place for the effective handling of errors which affect consumers Further information on consumer protection is available from the Central Bank website, www.centralbank.ie.
Sligo – Italian connections, thanks to Ryanair RYANAIR is helping to open up the West to foreign influences. A group of influential Italian journalists flew into Ireland West Airport Knock last week on the brand new Ryanair flight from Milan (Bergamo), en route to Sligo as part of a factfinding trip to the west and north-west. The visit was organised by Tourism Ireland, in conjunction with Fáilte Ireland and Ryanair. Given that the journalists all represented media outlets from northern Italy, within easy reach of Milan (Bergamo) Airport, the aim of the visit was to highlight the new Ryanair route and the connectivity between Italy and this part of Ireland. It was also an opportunity to showcase some of what Sligo has to offer potential Italian holidaymakers. During their time in Sligo, the journalists enjoyed the Eagles Flying show in Ballymote; visited Yeats' grave and Drumcliffe church and paid a visit to The Model Arts centre. Their itinerary also included the megalithic tombs at Carrowmore, a bodhrán workshop at the Radisson Blu Hotel and a visit to the Kilcullen Seaweed Baths in Enniscrone. The group stayed at Markree Castle in Collooney.
FOUR Masters Cycling Club will hold a charity cycle in aid of Relay for Life Donegal this Sunday 29th April from Letterkenny. Relay For Life is a 24-hour community celebration which honours all those who are affected by cancer. The Relay For Life events raise vital funds to support the work of the Irish Cancer Society. Our Relay For Life Charity cycle will include a 10-mile beginners cycle, a 20 mile novice cycle and an experienced 48 mile run to Doohary via Meenaroy and back to Letterkenny via Gartan. Sign on for all events will take place in the Aura Leisure Centre in Letterkenny from 8.45am to 9.45am. The 48 mile cycle will leave at 10am, followed by the 20 mile cycle at 10.10am and the 10 mile cycle at 10.20am. What better way to spend your Sunday morning with the family than get the kids out and get active. Both the 10 mile and 20 mile routes are open to all ages with the 48 mile route open to over 16's only. The entry fee for all events is €20.00. Kids under 16 accompanied by an adult go free and reduced family entry fee of €30.00 applied. All money raised for this event will go to the Irish Cancer Society through Relay for Life Donegal. Light refreshments will be available afterwards in the Aura Leisure centre where shower and changing facilites are also available. As all money raised is going to a very worthwhile event we are asking for a minimum entry fee of €20.00. You can just pay the €20.00 and take part or you may gather sponsorship. Sponsorship cards are available from Castle Cycles Raphoe, Eamonn Tinney & Sons Letterkenny, or can be posted by contacting Liam Tinney on 087 2902515.
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Northwest Express April 26th, 2012
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Leitrim has best record for re-homing stray dogs T
he 2011 figures from the Department of Environment, Community and Local government showed that just four out of 411 dogs taken in last year, were put to sleep by Leitrim Animal Welfare Trust, located outside of Drumkeerin. Leitrim can be proud that the facility re homed 370 dogs last year, giving it an 89% re-homing rate. Last year there were 2,278 individual licences for dogs in the county - a high percentage for a small population. Leitrim Animal Welfare Trust took over the running of the Leitrim Dog Pound in 2004. On a national level statistics have shown that, on average, 44 dogs are abandoned in Ireland each day, whilst a further 10 dogs are put to sleep every day. In order to help curb these startling figures, Pedigree has once again launched the Pedigree Adoption Drive which will run from until May 31. In addition, dog lovers across the country will also be able to show their support by becoming a fan of the Pedigree Ireland Facebook page, www.facebook.com/PedigreeIreland. For every new fan, Pedigree will donate a bowl of dog food to a re-homing centre. Pedigree plans to match last year’s achievements by donating €100,000 in cash and food to Irish dog charities.
Time running out for Knockmore Post Office
Above: TDs and local politicians with the local committee in Knockmore following a public meeting held to discuss options to avert the closure of the local post office. Inset: 8-year-old Judy Langan explains why she needs her local Post Office.
IT looks like the end of the road for Knockmore Post Office Action Committee’s trojan efforts to retain their local office in the village. After several meetings, including one with An Taoiseach, Enda Kenny, last week, during which he undertook to make representations on their behalf, it now seems, barring some last-minute “miracle”, that Knockmore Post Office will close, as scheduled, at the end of this month. It seems An Post have made a policy decision to close all post offices where there is a retirement, such as the case in Knockmore, whether the outlet is
profitable or not. Local Councillor Seamus Weir said they had wasted their time trying to negotiate with An Post. The Councillor had just come from a meeting with An Post, accompanied by local TDs and the Save Knockmore Post Office Action Committee. They had presented a comprehensive business plan to the officials to try to convince them to keep the post office open. Councillor Weir said the elected representatives have no power to try to persuade companies like An Post; it was the CEOs who have the power. “The TDs are doing their utmost but we are absolutely wasting
our time dealing with An Post. The company have told us they want to close all post offices if someone retires. It doesn’t matter if they are making a mint, they will close them. We have built a community and they are taking what little business we have. We have a business plan in place, but you might as well be talking to the wall,” Councillor Weir told a meeting of Mayo County Council last week.” The communities research shows the business is profitable, but An Post says the post offices in Foxford and Ballina will serve the needs of the Knockmore community.
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Northwest Express April 26th, 2012
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Former GAA president launches Gaelcholáiste Chomáin book
Gaelcholáiste Chomáin principal Jason Ó Mongáin makes a presentation of the Gaelcholáiste Chomáin book to former GAA president Dr. Mickey Loftus
F
ormer GAA president Dr. Mickey Loftus was on hand on Thursday night last to officially launch the Coláiste Chomáin commemorative book ‘Ceiliúradh Oideachais i gColáiste Chomáin’.
Gaelcholáiste Chomáin has stood the test of time, nurturing and encouraging students along their academic career,” he stated. O’Mongáin went on to say, “Gaelcholáiste Chomáin has an amazing history and this book outlines the educational legacy of so many people from this region over the years. There are wonderful contributions from past principals and students and the archive photographs that the students unearthed will rekindle many happy memories for those associated with the school over the years.” Gaelcholáiste Chomáin came under the management of County Mayo V.E.C in 1972 and since then the college has developed both academically and socially. The school ethos from the beginning has been ‘Mol an óige agus tiocfaidh sí – encourage young people and they will respond’. “I would like to congratulate the students and their teacher Áine Ní Mhaoldomhnaigh for their commitment and dedication to this project. They have delved into the school annals and archives to shine a spotlight on the delicate tapestry of Gaelcholáiste Chomáin over the years and I hope people will enjoy their professional publication,” stated Ó Mongáin.
months researching student life and secondary education in the small rural village of Rossport and their 100 page publication is full of folklore, heritage and history. Speaking at the launch Dr. Mickey Loftus complimented the students and school saying the book would be a very valuable resource in years to come. “This book is a very professional publication and I am sure it will be treasured and cherished in years to come,” he said. Dr. Katie Sweeney, CEO of Mayo VEC, said at the launch that it was clear to everyone that Gaelcholáiste Chomáin was going from strength to strength. “Gaelcholáiste Chomáin is providing the highest standard of education in Irish and it is very evident that the students are benefitting as a result. The TY students at Gaelcholáiste Chomáin deserve great credit for their publication and I am sure they have benefitted greatly from the project,” she said. Gaelcholáiste Chomáin principal Jason Ó Mongáin stated at the launch that the publication was a community effort with every strand of the parish supporting the students’ initiative. “Despite numerous set backs and struggles for survival over the past half century,
Hugging the coast, twenty miles north of Belmullet, Gaelcholáiste Chomáin was established by Gael Linn as a secondary school in 1959. TY students from Gaelcholáiste Chomáin have spent the last six
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Donegal pupil shortlisted for Schools’ Photo Competition
Apple Flower - Kelsee Fay
Squatters in Leitrim’s ghost estates SQUATTERS are starting to move into some of Leitrim’s empty housing stock, prompting renewed calls for a more speedy resolution to the oversupply of housing in the county.
CSO figures indicate that over a third of homes in the county are unoccupied that With CSO figures indicating
over a third of homes in the county are unoccupied and a Government survey last year showing that a sub stantial number of estates in Co. Leitrim are only partially occupied,
or incomplete, the situation facing the county has reached a crisis point according to one local councillor. Cllr John McCartin lives in the village of Newtowngore where only 13 out of 40 homes are actually oc cupied. Numbers of residents in the village have changed little since before the Celtic Tiger build although some of the ing boom and estates are ingood condition there of are homes at various stages completion, something Cllr Mc a massive health Cartin says poses and safety risk. evi Cllr McCartinsaid there was had moved dence that squatters
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into homes in the village with dirty mattresses, litter and human excrement left in and near incomplete and unoccupied estates. “I have seen evidence of squatting myself and I have huge concerns about how people are getting access to these buildings and potentially, the health and safety issues that arise because people are living in building sites,” he said. The Fine Gael councillor said there was also evidence that vermin were also making themselves at home in the unsecured buildings. “The average life span of an unoccupied house with no services is three to seven years and we have already seen a huge deterioration in the condition of unfinished housing stock throughout the county. We have to face the reality that viable houses must be used and those that aren’t must be immediately knocked,” he said.
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In this home in Newtowngore squatters have also caused substantial damage to the walls.
IT’S le crunch time for Donegal primary school pupil Kelsee Fay! Seven year old Kelsee from Gartan National School in Letterkenny is just one of twelve pupils from across Ireland shortlisted in the Le Crunch Photobyte Schools Photography Competition 2012. Kelsee’s unique apple themed photograph captured the judges attention and will now be displayed at a very special exhibition in the Hugh Lane Gallery in Dublin at the Le Crunch Photobyte Competition 2012 Grand Final on the 14th of May! The photograph will also be on display at Le Crunch stands in selected Dunnes Stores across Ireland and the public will be invited to vote for their favourite composition. Primary and Post-Primary students across Ireland have spent the last month focusing their creative juices on creating a photographic masterpiece and the final twelve students are now in with a chance of winning thousands of Euros in prizes! Kelsee and her school are incredibly excited and proud to have been selected from so many entries across the whole of Ireland to represent Donegal in the national finals. Schools from Galway, Clare, Wicklow, Cork, Waterford, Limerick, Tipperary, Louth and Monaghan have also been short-listed. Photographer Aidan Oliver, one of the judges, said the standard was fantastic, with some of the younger pupils, in particular, delivering way beyond expectations.
Northwest Express April 26th, 2012
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Northwest Express April 26th, 2012
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Cycle for the North West MS Respite Centre on 16th June Photo: L-R Vincent Hunt, Liam Hunt, Oisin Davey(front, Matt Mc Carrick, Helen Kilcullen, Sr. Mary Henry, Nora Durcan, Eoin Davey, Eamon O’Dowd and Dermot Egan Photo: James Burke
T
he MS North West Therapy Centre has recently acquired a five-bedded Respite Centre at Woodhaven, Sea Road, Sligo. The building will provide a spacious treatment facility and residential accommodation in a scenic location for people in the North West with Multiple Sclerosis and other neurological conditions, and their families and friends.
In order to provide this much needed facility the MS North West Therapy Centre needs in the region of €1,000,000. A group of cyclists from Sligo and the surrounding counties are willing to take on a 120km cycle around Sligo to contribute to those much needed funds. They need as many people as possible to get on their bikes on
TRADITIONAL CRAFTSMEN & STONE CARVERS IN MAYO SINCE 1909
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the 16th June! This will be a fun cycle and can be done in stages, so you do not need to commit to the full 120km! The cycle is leaving the MS Therapy Centre, Ballytivnan, at 9.00 am sharp on the 16th June and the route is: Sligo-SkreenCorballa-Bonniconlon-Tubbercurry -Cloonacool-Coolaney-Sligo.
T-shirts will be provided for those who have registered by the 19th May and registration forms and further information can be downloaded from http://www.mstherapycentre.ie or requested from msrespitecycle@gmail.com or from Bairbre at 071-9144748. You can check out our Facebook Page: Respite Centre Cycle.
50% rise in those seeking SVP help in Galway STRUGGLING families in Galway are turning to the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul (SVP) in record numbers to make ends meet – there has been a 50 per cent increase in demand for the charity’s services locally so far this year. The SVP Galway Conference, comprised of 25 local conferences in Connemara, the city and its outskirts, have reported a 50 per cent surge in demand in the first three months of 2012. Last year, the charity dealt with around 1,000 families in the months January, February and March but over the corresponding period in 2012 that has increased by 500 to 1,500 needy families who are struggling to pay for food, electricity, fuel, mortgages and other bills. SVP estimates that around 30 per cent of the families looking for help are ‘new’ and have never before turned to the charity – in fact, in many cases, the families now needing support are the ones who used to make contributions to the charity rather than the other way round. In all of 2011, SVP supported around 4,000 families in Connemara and the city, which entailed approximately 12,000 visits. On the evidence of the demand in the first three months of this year, if the trend continues, the numbers will reach 6,000 families and 18 visits by the year end. SVP Galway Area President, Val McNicholas, said one of the reasons for the increase is that employees in the public sector are referring cases to the charity because the State organisations do not have the resources at their Page 20 & 21 disposal.
Community Information Day to showcase services in Sligo and Mayo RESIDENTS in Counties Sligo and Mayo are invited to attend a Community Information Day on Thursday, 26th April 2012 to find out about services available in their community. The Community Information Day, organised by The West Sligo Family Resource Centre, Easkey, Co Sligo, will bring together approximately 35 service providers at The Ocean Sands Hotel, Enniscrone, Co Sligo from 11am – 3pm. People attending will have the opportunity to talk face-to-face with representatives from each of these providers. In promoting general Health, The Marie Keating Foundation will have their mobile unit and nurse on site. As well as information packs on all key cancers, there will be smokelyzer breath testing kits as well as tar-in-a-jar which is used as an educational aid for people considering giving up smoking. As part of their Healthy Living Campaign, they have Body Fat Scales on board and can give advice on Diet/Healthy Living. The HSE, Mental Health Ireland, GROW and Sligo Sports & Recreation Partnership will also be available on the day for any queries you may have. Thinking of starting your own business? The Sligo Enterprise Board, 2Market.ie and Sligo Leader Partnership will be delighted to advise you. Need Educational\Training Opportunities? Have a look at the educational programmes on offer by the VEC, TUS, West Sligo Family Resource Centre and Ballina Family Resource Centre. Have queries regarding rights\entitlements come and talk to Citizens Information. Need some advice
on Money Budgeting and MABS will guide you. Thinking of Volunteering in your Community? Talk to Sligo Volunteers Centre for opportunities in your area. THE NORTH WEST SIMON COMMUNITY supports people who are struggling to manage their tenancy, offering assistance, advice and information regarding rent, home care and personal support., They also are currently running a 10 week Life-Skills Programme for Isolated Men where they can learn basic cookery, home care and self-care in the Community Centre, Dromore West. The West Sligo Family Resource Centre Coordinator, Patrick Hegarty, encouraged everyone to attend the day. “Counties Sligo and Mayo has seen some tough times over the past few years and it’s important for the community to know that help is available,” Pat said. “For people living in a small town or a rural community it can be difficult to find out about available services, what they can offer, and how to get access to them. “The information day provides an opportunity to get a hold of all this information in the one spot, on the one day, and talk to representatives face-toface. “Even if people don’t need any help right now, it’s a good idea to come along and see what’s available; you never know what’s down the track. “You may even be able to pass on the information to help a family member, neighbour or friend.” For more information, telephone The West Sligo Family Resource Centre on 096 49088.
Northwest Express April 26th, 2012
11
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Northwest Express April 26th, 2012
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Reel You In Productions – Local Student Film Company.
R
eel You in Productions are a student film company based in IT Sligo. The company uses local resources and talents and aims to provide a stepping stone for the unknown talent in the west of Ireland. It also gives a chance for those who are interested in the film industry to gain experience. The team are currently working on their first short film
"Pest Control", written by Kieran Ducker. The film will be directed by Catherine Jackson and produced by Rachel Gunning. The film is due to be released in summer 2012 where it will be premiered in The Model Arts Centre in Sligo and entered into film festivals in Ireland and abroad. The “Pest Control” cast includes Ronan Geoghegan, who graduated from Performing Arts in IT Sligo, Sarah Mc Gearty and David Kelly,
d l o h e s u o H e h T e g r a h C
who are both current Performing Arts students, Niall Colleary, a Performing Arts lecturer, Barry Cullen, Ben Heath, Aoibhinn Lynch, and Joan Gallagher. For more information on Reel You In Productions, have a look at their website at www.reelyouinproductions.com. The company can also be found on facebook and twitter and Fund It. Your continued support and interest is greatly appreciated.
l e a h c a R y b Kel l y
on domestic property since A new annual charge, the first tax flat rate of €100 has somea rates were abolished in 1997 with ia delight. Introduced by the med de ldwi wor a how escalated into mpt to meet the required atte pressurised Irish government in an cost the government ably prob has ge char savings the household of 2012 more than it shall earn? ner, including the owners of The charge requires every homeow ed, 1.6 million households rental property forming an estimat 000 households are ex200, her furt A that are eligible to pay. ses, or are required to pay a empt, including local authority hou sification unfinished and unclas this in lowered rate, many with r of our affluent Celtic Tiger occupied estates, a cruel reminde era. s of families and individuals Recognising the on-going struggle e repayments, forced to withwho are unable to meet mortgag e to barely have food for striv draw from leisure activities and cted the reluctance and could have both predicted and expe ministers supported their table, surely the government s erou num set to meet this charge. Yet, ys alwa was that ent ntm onte disc the disenchantment did sion to introduce such. However their party’s, our governments’ deci roached to pay the charge. not evaporate as the deadline app d by the Revenue Comhousehold charge, is not collecte the s taxe me inco and pay the hundred Unlike the average erty prop r s responsibility to register thei that there is no fact missioners. It is the householder the but flaw e rativ inist apparent adm ing invoices or issu euro. Many have criticised such an from ent State, prevented the governm proper households database in the
sending bills. Those in opposition to the charge resented the fact that such payment options appeared assumptious and seemed to overlook certain groups in society, particularly the elderly. Charges could be paid by internet, by post or at local authority offices. However for the typical seventy year old person who doesn’t drive, is IT illiterate, there is effectively no choices. The decision not to offer local post offices as a payment point, also sparked outrage. Realising the fact that people were at a time when money was so scarce unwilling to invest, an information leaflet was published but it failed to reach every household. Since its introduction the government have failed to implement the threatened fines and penalties, meaning that the needed revenue is still outstanding. The penalty for the first six months is 10 per cent of the fee plus 1 per cent interest a month – €116 would be paid if the payment is made after six months. After six months, the fines will go up to 20 per cent. The household tax has to date, backfooted the Minister and has the potential for serious embarrassment. In order to qualify as a success it is essential that over one million houses register and pay. Yet is the refusal of millions of property owners to pay the €100 really a reflection of their financial struggles or simply symbolic of the public’s growing unease with politics? As a nineteen year old student I understandably struggle somewhat to understand the complexity of the financial situation in Ireland today. However from close observation and a casual exploration of the opinions of my fellow citizens in recent weeks I now believe that this a necessary step no matter how undesirable. Admittedly times are hard for all of us, however in the true united spirit of our nation by rallying together and joining the fifty per cent who have coughed up the household charge I firmly believe that we will finally begin to overcome the crippling obstacles which currently dominate the Irish economy.
Northwest Express April 26th, 2012
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E
ver Dreamed of being the Rose of Tralee.Well this is your Chance.THE SEARCH IS NOW ON, for The MAYO ROSE…. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to represent MAYO in this year’s Rose of Tralee. For applications forms and further information, contact Donnacha Roche at the Royal Theatre, Castlebar on 094 9023111 or at droche@theroyal.ie. The Selection night is Friday 27th April
and will be compared by iRadio’s Fergal Darcy. The Mayo Rose will win a wonderful selection of prizes from Newbridge Silverware, Carlton Hotel Group and local event sponsors. LIFE-changing experiences come just once a year and that time has arrived for Irish women everywhere to get their skates on to enter the 2012 Rose of Tralee and fulfill their childhood dream. The reigning Rose of Tralee, Tara Talbot has had an amazing few months since she was crowned the winner in front of the third highest TV viewing audience of the year. “It’s amazing how the smallest decisions sometimes lead us to the most extraordinary of places. My decision to enter the Queensland Rose back in March last year was one such small decision that I made in the hope that I would reconnect with the local Irish community, and perhaps make a friend or two along the way. The
thought of winning the title of the International Rose of Tralee seemed almost mythical to me, so far very far removed from my own reality. Nine months later, I find myself carrying my tiara and sash in my handbag, as if it were my purse, or my phone, and I have to say that it is an absolute dream come true,” she said. The one million people tuning into watch the selection nights next August 20th and 21st will only catch a glimpse of each Rose’s amazing journey along the way to Tralee. That journey starts in towns and villages all over Ireland! The Regional Finals of the Rose of Tralee taking place in Portlaoise from June 1st to 3rd and the Rose of Tralee International Festival in Tralee from August 17th to 21st. Any Rose of Tralee, from Alice O’Sullivan in 1959 to Tara Talbot in 2011, will say that the experience is the ultimate reward for anyone who enters the Rose of Tralee - regardless of the outcome in the Dome. However there are some great prizes on offer as well including - a World Travel Fund of €25,000 from the Pilot Training College, a treasure trove of Jewellery & Homeware from lead-sponsors Newbridge Silverware, the use of a car for the year, free accommodation at any Carlton Hotel in Ireland and much more.
DAVID MUNNELLY AT THE LINENHALL THE David Munnelly Band performs at the Linenhall Arts Centre in Castlebar on Wednesday 2nd May at 8.00pm. Over a decade on the road, the David Munnelly band has captivated audiences worldwide led by accordion player par excellence David Munnelly. Founded in 1999, what sets the band apart and puts it in a class of its own is the capability and ease with which it weaves in and out of different musical styles while remaining firmly rooted in the earthy tones of Irish Traditional Music. The band boasts some of the finest talent that Irish music has to offer, with every member bringing his own unique stamp to the overall sound. Looking for an evening of musical skill, energy and excitement? Look no further. “This is a uniquely gifted group of musicians who are having a ball onstage while playing unexcelled Trad music. These guys are the best." - Irish-American News "The Dave Munnelly Band give an incredibly energetic performance..." - BBC World Television The David Munnelly Band performs at the Linenhall Arts Centre on Wednesday 2nd May at 8.00pm. Booking advised. Tel: 094 9023733 The Linenhall Arts Centre acknowledges the financial support of the Arts Council in making this performance possible.
Northwest Express April 26th, 2012
15
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Northwest Express April 26th, 2012
16
naturalhealth By Megan Fennell
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.
6 Psoriatic Arthritis Symptoms Scaly skin Up to 7.5 million Americans have psoriasis, an autoimmune disease that results in scaly skin patches. As many as 30% of people with psoriasis eventually develop psoriatic arthritis. For most people, psoriasis symptoms occur about 5 to 10 years before arthritis. In some cases, the arthritis shows up first. In 10% of people, psoriasis and arthritis are diagnosed simultaneously. The severity of psoriasis doesn’t predict psoriatic arthritis. Some psoriasis symptoms are so mild or easy to overlook that people can be mistakenly diagnosed with osteoarthritis or other types of arthritis.
What is psoriatic arthritis? Psoriatic arthritis is a chronic condition in which the immune system attacks the body, causing joint pain and other symptoms. It tends to develop in people with psoriasis. "The most important thing for these patients is early recognition, diagnosis, and treatment of the disease," says Elaine Husni, MD, vice chair of the Department of Rheumatic and Immunologic Diseases at the Cleveland Clinic. Many symptoms mimic other conditions or arthritis types, so psoriatic arthritis can be missed or misdiagnosed.
Many symptoms mimic other conditions or arthritis types, so psoriatic arthritis can be missed or misdiagnosed.
Joint trouble People with psoriatic arthritis may experience stiff, painful joints that are red and warm to the touch. Morning stiffness can be a particular problem. Such joint problems can be mistaken for rheumatoid arthritis, which is also caused by an autoimmune attack, says Dr. Husni. Like other autoimmune conditions, symptoms tend to flare and subside, only to flare again later on. Psoriatic arthritis is incurable, but treatable. Symptoms can be mild or severe, and may lead to joint destruction, which can require joint replacement surgery. Asymmetrical pain Although not always the case, psoriatic arthritis tends to affect large joints in the legs,
Age and gender Psoriatic arthritis can show up at any age (even in children), but it appears most frequently between 30 and 50. There are five types and men and women are equally likely to get it. About 1 million people in the U.S. have psoriatic arthritis, but there’s no single blood test for it. (There are more than 100 kinds of arthritis and joint-pain conditions, including fibromyalgia, gout, degenerative joint disease, and bursitis.) The most common is osteoarthritis.About 27 million Americans have this type, which is caused by wear and tear of the joints, not an immune reaction.
Swollen fingers Dactylitis, or swelling in the fingers and toes, occurs in about 40% of patients with psoriatic arthritis. Because this symptom is much less common in other types of arthritis, it can help doctors distinguish between psoriatic arthritis and other conditions
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like rheumatoid arthritis. Dactylitis is caused by inflammation of the entire tendon that runs along the fingers or toes. Such "sausage" toes or fingers can occur before someone even has joint problems. Foot pain Psoriatic arthritis can cause pain and swelling beyond the joints. Enthesitis is inflammation of an area where a tendon or ligament connects to bone. If it happens in the foot, it can be misdiagnosed asplantar fasciitis or heel spur, both of which tend to arise from overuse or injury. People with rheumatoid arthritis may also have foot pain, as do those with lupus, another autoimmune condition. Psoriatic arthritis can look like, or be associated with, gout, an arthritis that causes joint pain, often in the big toes.
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like the knees and ankles, or the fingertips. The pain is often asymmetrical; one knee may be affected but not the other. In contrast, rheumatoid arthritis is often symmetrical, affecting both wrists at the same time, for example. There are five subtypes of psoriatic arthritis. Four are asymmetrical, and they account for about 80% of cases, says Stephen Paget, MD, rheumatologist and physician-inchief emeritus at Hospital for Special Surgery, in New York City.
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S.T.O.P. is a registered charity which was set up to assist and support individuals who feel suicidal, are in distress or those who have been bereaved by suicide. Currently S.T.O.P. provide the following services • Provides bereavement support through a suicide bereavement group which meets monthly. • Support and outreach to those bereaved by suicide. • Promotes positive mental health and related issues by attending information evenings and also visiting (when requested) schools, communities and organisations throughout Ireland. • Counselling for those who are feeling suicidal / depressed or have been bereaved by suicide.
If you feel that you could benefit from any of the above support please call Mary on 087-4188053.
Northwest Express April 26th, 2012
17
Mothers Play Important Role in Recovery From Mental Illness By Megan Fennell ARE YOU OVERWEIGHT? Something special coming up - Safe Herbal Programme. Paddy and Mena MrDermott looking after your weight for over 14 years. Call: 04866327490 - Herbalife Distributors
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EGATIVE family attitudes can have an adverse effect on recovery from mental illness, according to a new
study. Researchers found that although family members, particularly mothers, often provide much needed support for the mentally ill, they can also be the source of negative attitudes that stigmatize these patients and impede their recovery. “Negative attitudes of family members have the potential to affect the ways that mentally ill persons view themselves, adversely influencing the likelihood of recovery from the illness,” the study’s lead researcher, Fred Markowitz, a Northern Illinois University professor of sociology, said in a news release from the American Sociological Association. “In short, what mom thinks mat-
ters,” added Markowitz. “It’s a chain of effects that unfolds.” The study, published in the June issue of Social Psychology Quarterly, analysed 129 mothers of adult children diagnosed with schizophrenia over the course of 18 months. “We found that when those with mental illness exhibited greater levels of initial symptoms, lower self-confidence and quality of life, their mothers tended to view them in more stigmatized terms — for example, seeing them as ‘incompetent,’ ‘unpredictable’ and ‘unreliable,’” said Markowitz. When their mothers held these views, the mentally ill patients were more likely to see themselves in the same light, he explained. The researchers also found that when the mentally ill adopted their relatives’ stigmatizing perceptions, their symptoms worsened
For more information or bookings call Patricia Heneghan on 087-6886239 Email: info@galway-counselling.ie and their self-esteem dropped along with Visit: www.galway-counselling.ie
their quality of life. “Our study is part of research that is starting to more fully examine how stigma affects the self-concept and identity of those with mental illness,” Markowitz noted. The study’s authors concluded that no matter how well-intentioned a mentally ill person’s relatives are, stigmatizing attitudes of family members have potentially detrimental effects on a mental patient’s ability to recover. “It is, to a certain extent, a social-psychological process,” explained Markowitz. “The ways in which people, including family members and service providers, think about persons with mental illness affect the beliefs and actions of the individuals with mental illness, in turn shaping the trajectory of recovery.”
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Northwest Express April 26th, 2012
18 Do You Have any news or views for us? email: info@theexpress.ie
Web pioneer slams monitoring plans
tech news & science
Trust urges outdoor childhoods
T CONTROVERSIAL government plans to allow intelligence agencies to monitor the calls, emails, texts and website visits of every person in the UK should be scrapped, the inventor of the world wide web has said. Sir Tim Berners-Lee warned that the "dangerous" new laws would lead to a "destruction of human rights" if they were implemented in their current form. The new legislation, expected in next month's Queen's Speech, will enable GCHQ to access information "on demand" in "real time" without a warrant. But the British computer engineer, who advises the Government on how to make public data more accessible, said there has not been enough discussion on how the sensitive data could be safely stored. In an interview with The Guardian Sir Tim said: "The idea that we should routinely record information about people is obviously very dangerous. "It means that there will be information around which could be stolen, which can be acquired through corrupt officials or corrupt operators, and (could be) used, for example, to blackmail people in the Government or people in the military. We open ourselves out, if we store this information, to it being abused." The internet pioneer added: "The amount of control you have over somebody if you can monitor internet activity is amazing. "You get to know every detail, you get to know, in a way, more intimate details about their life than any person that they talk to because often people will confide in the internet as they find their way through medical websites....or as an adolescent finds their way through a website about homosexuality, wondering what they are and whether they should talk to people about it." Home Secretary Theresa May defended the proposals after they faced fierce criticism from backbench MPs and civil liberties groups. She insisted that suspected terrorists, paedophiles and serious criminals would be targeted by intelligence officials rather than ordinary people. Sir Tim said that if the government pushes ahead with the plans a "very strong independent body" would have to be set up to scrutinise the use of the powers.
he glories of a 1950s-style childhood free from digital distractions are the focus of a new campaign by the National Trust. The charity's "50 things to do before you're 11 and three-quarters" campaign features stone skimming, mud pie making and climbing trees as recommended activities for children 12 and under who may not normally play outside. The list comes after a report commissioned by the trust revealed fewer than one in 10 children regularly play in wild places compared with almost half a generation ago, and a third have never climbed a tree. In the age of Facebook and smartphones, children are more sedentary than ever even when they are outside, with one in 10 unable to ride a bike. Other highlights of the list of simple outdoor pleasures include running around in the rain, bug hunting, snail racing and flying a kite. The National Trust has recruited five elite rangers from its ranks to encourage families to get involved, including a tree-climbing ex-
pert and stone-skimming supremo. Justin Scully, assistant director of operations for the National Trust in the East of England, said: "We're hoping that the nation's children will embrace our 50 things campaign. It's a great way to encourage more families to enjoy adventures outdoors and
our free weekend is the perfect opportunity to visit. "With heaps of enthusiasm for the outdoors, our staff and volunteers are a fantastic bunch just waiting to encourage kids to tick off the 50 things. The question is, will your family be up for the challenge?"
Louvre goes visual with 3Ds guide
THE Louvre Museum is used to dealing with antiquities, with nearly all of its thousands of works of art dating back to 1848 or earlier. Now it wants to create a relic of its own - the old museum audio guide. The famed Paris museum, whose origins date to the 18th century, is pressing on toward modernity and going visual with new electronic guides in a deal with Japan's Nintendo. The guide provides 3DS game consoles that offer touch-screen, visual-and-audio guidance
for visitors who teem the museum's labyrinthine halls by the millions each year. Billed as an unprecedented innovation at a museum, the game consoles launched this week offer 700 recordings on famed works like the Venus de Milo, Winged Victory of Samothrace and the Mona Lisa - only a tiny sliver of the 35,000-odd works displayed in the museum. The electronic guides, both navigational and informative, offer virtual glimpses of the
artistic touches that are tough for the naked eye to see, like tiny details on towering tableaux on the museum's wood-panelled walls. They will use much of the same information in the Louvre's now-shelved audio guides. Pairing France's highest-of-high-brow museums with a Japanese technology company behind games like Donkey Kong, Mario Brothers and Zelda might not seem like a natural fit. And some may view the electronic guide as a shop window for Nintendo. But Louvre officials say the museum must change with the times and try to access as wide a public possible. Over the years the Louvre has drawn controversy with some of its innovations, including the glass-pyramid entrance by Chinese-American architect IM Pei or its sharing parts of its massive collection with wealthy countries such as the United Arab Emirates - which is to open a Louvre affiliate in 2015. Above all, the console is meant to reach out to the Louvre's customer base: the museum welcomed 8.9 million visitors last year - more than half of them under 30, and about twothirds foreign. The guides, for now available in seven languages, cost five euros (ÂŁ4.13) on top of the museum's 10-euro (ÂŁ8.26) standard admission price. And coming soon: French sign language.
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Northwest Express April 26th, 2012
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Ghostbusters called in to investigate bum-pinching ghoul
Man shot himself without a gun
A cheeky ghost is keeping the bar staff of a city centre pub on their toes with his wandering hands.
T
he randy phantom grabs the buttocks of a victim and gives a ‘very firm pinch’, staff claim. ‘It’s quite shocking – and definitely not a muscle spasm,’ said manager Christian Dixon. ‘It happens day and night. ‘You turn round but there’s no one there. It’s most off-putting.’ Paula Wharton assistant manager of the Queens Arms pub in Birmingham has also felt the vice-like grip of the playful spook. But the 41-year-old won’t have a bad word said against the spirit. ‘I don’t think he’s nasty, he’s just another regular,’ she joked. Mr Dixon is calling in a team of ghostbusters to investigate not just the phantom butt-pincher but a host of other sightings in the 170-year-old watering hole. Another ghost walks through walls and chairs often move on their own.
A US man says he accidentally shot himself - when he dropped a dumbbell on a bullet. The 56-year-old told police officers that no gun was involved in the bullet wound in his shoulder, reports the Modesto Bee. The man said he was lifting dumbbells at his home in Modesto, California, when he accidentally dropped one on a .22 caliber bullet. He claimed the weight of the dumbbell activated the propellant powder in the bullet, which shot toward him and punctured his shoulder. Police spokesman Chris Adams said the officers found the man's story suspicious, but not impossible. The impact of the weight on the rim of one of the bullets could have caused it to shoot in the direction it was pointing, he added. Officers did not find a gun at the home but did find the shell casing from the .22 caliber bullet.
Calling time on spooks: Paula Wharton of the Queens Arms
Driver crashes into telegraph pole in middle of spacious desert
F***ing village to change its name after being bombarded by prank callers
It looks like this New Mexican driver should have gone to Specsavers after accidentally slamming her vehicle into a telegraph pole in the middle of the wide-open desert. THIS astonishing picture, captured in Rio Rancho, Sandoval, is undoubted proof of an extreme case of bad driving across the pond. The careless female motorist inexplicably managed to plough straight into the middle of a 20ft telegraph pole, despite being surrounded by acres of brown and green desert for as far as the eye can see. And she's sure to be hit in the pocket when she receives the repair bill for her vehicle following this moment of madness behind the wheel. As one of the most vast and least densely populated states in the US due to its mountainous territory and desert landscape, it's difficult to see how the motorist managed to get into such a predicament. The damage to the front of the grey car is clearly visible in the snap, with the sheer force of the crash also causing the wooden utility pole to snap on impact. According to a Rio Rancho police officer, the driver of the vehicle, who had no life-threatening injuries, was taken to a local hospital as a precaution. However it is not yet known if she will get back behind the wheel.?
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CALLERS have been ringing up families and businesses simply to ask: ‘Is that F***ing’ – before laughing and hanging up. Signs have been stolen, while the ones that remain often have seen naked couples getting frisky in front of them. US servicemen from across the border in Germany prompted the last vote on the subject in 1996 after driving to the Austrian village just to be photographed by a sign. The 16th-century name for the village was ‘Fugging’ and many want this reinstated. Mayor Franz Meindl added: ‘I wanted the name to stay but it’s got too much now. The only problem is we need all of the F***ing residents to agree.’ If the change goes ahead, it will follow the Stade de Suisse stadium in Bern, Switzerland, which was called W**kdorf before bands were too embarrassed to play there. At least other Austrian villages, such as Oberf***ing and Windpassing, will keep pranksters amused.
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Northwest Express April 26th, 2012
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Northwest Express April 26th, 2012
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Killala in County Mayo lucy b’s hair salon Killala is a pict!resque seaside village six and a half miles nor"h-west of Ballina in nor"h Mayo, famous in Irish histor# for the par" it played in the 1798 rebellion.
I
n August of 1798 General Humbert arrived into Kilcummin pier from France and combined with the Irish forces against the English forces in the area. This year is chronicled in Irish history as the Year of the French and a book and television history celebrate this unique event. Consequently, Killala has become a popular location for the historian and in fact was used as a major location for the 1981 multi million pound film "The Year of the French". In 1998 Killala celebrated the bicentenary by twinning with a town in Chauve in France. Killala's skyline is dominated by a round tower, dating to the twelth century. There is a Church of Ireland cathedral, which was built in the 17th century over the remains of a ruined Catholic cathedral. The area is rich in archaelogical remains such as: Moyne Abbey Rosserk Abbey Rathfran Abbey Meelick Castle Humberts Rock Céide Fields (the oldest enclosed farms in the world) are a short distance away near Ballycastle.
Unit 3, William Street, Killala, Co. Mayo
Open Tues to Sat 10.00am - 6.00pm Earlier and Later appointments available - Contact Shauna 096-33000
Population from Census 569 (2006) / 650 (2002) / 657 (1996) Accommodation Of course you will find Bed and Breakfast or Rental Accommodation with an excellent choice of Pubs and Restaurants with traditional music and food including fresh seafood dishes. Other services include a Post Office, Taxis, Chemist, Garage and there is a daily bus service in the town. Community Centre Killala Community Centre is one of the largest centres in the north west catering for handball, football, soccer, badminton, volley ball, squash and tennis. It has a fully equipped kitchen, meeting rooms, tourist office and community council offices.
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Northwest Express April 26th, 2012
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Main St!eet, Enniscrone, Co. Sligo
Specialising in Wedding and Engagement Rings Tel: 096-37085 • 087-6165411
Book now for kids Summer camp
The Square, Main St!eet, Enniscrone, Co. Sligo
Gilroys Bar and Ait Eile Restaurant
Ideally located right on the scenic west coast overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and a 5km st!etch of our blue flag beach - a t!"ely beautif"l sight. If you are looking for finely flavoured food then this really is the place! All our food is caref"lly selected #om first rate suppliers before being prepared to perfection.
We have a beginners surf lesson for two people to give away to one lucky reader! To be in with a chance of winning this exciting prize, simply answer the question below:
Q: Which Leading Surf Company Supports Northwest Surf School?
Send your answer, along with your name, address and telephone number to us at info@northwestexpress.ie or Post it to Surfing Competition, IBS Publishing, Office 3, Unit 7, North West Business Park, Collooney, Co. Sligo. Closing Date for entries is 8 May 2012. Terms and Conditions apply.
N
orth West Surf School offers a variety of surf programmes for all ages and skill levels. They offer surfing lessons to individuals or groups, to adults and to kids and also run youth surf camps. Enniscrone beach, where they are based, provides ideal conditions for novice or intermediate surfers as it is 5km long, flat and safe. All the instructors are certified by the Irish Surfing Association and also have Beach Lifeguard qualifications. Surfing is one of today’s most incredible sports and lifestyle you can enjoy. There’s on feeling so exhilarating as catching your first wave, getting your longest wave or just getting to your feet. Let North West Surf School take you to the wonderful world of surfing. Lessons and rental times vary. You can pick a time and they see if they can accomadate you. Early morning or late evening!!! You can rent Softboards, Wetsuits and boots. So if you've had a lesson before, come and put what you've learned to the test. The Surf School is open from March to Start or December (Depending on the weather) For Lessons booking is essental between the months of march to June, September to December. In the Summer months it gets very busy so you need to book to guarantee a space!
North West Surf School Enniscrone, Co. Sligo Tel: 087-9595556 northwestsurf@gmail.com www.nwsurfschool.com
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Northwest Express April 26th, 2012
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The Home For Great Holidays Is Enniscrone
Enniscrone is renowned for its breathtaking coastal beaut" and offers a wealth of amenities for a multit$de of interests. Whether a walk along the scenic shores of Killala Bay or you seek a challenging round of golf, or replenish yourself with a soak in its famous seaweed baths, Enniscrone must be sampled to be appreciated. editorial cour!esy of www.enniscroneonline.com
E
nniscrone is a small seaside village and is situated along the Atlantic Ocean in county Sligo on the Northwest coast of Ireland only 7km from Ballina , Co Mayo and 64 km from
Sligo town it is ideally located for touring the north west scenic routes. It is one of Ireland's most beautiful and inspiring seaside towns, and is one of the best-known holiday centres in the
As featured on "No Frontiers"
KIDS SURFING CAMPS Enniscrone Beach, Sligo Weekly: July / August.
Northwest. Áit Eile Restaurant at Gilroys Bar in Enniscrone, known for its friendly service, very good tasty food, and a great pint. Gilroy's bar is an ideal Irish pub situated in the heart of this seaside village. Situated in the heart of Enniscrone the Pilot Bar is a cosy bar where you are always sure of a nice and warm welcome. the menu at the Pilot Bar is full of heartwarming home cooking inspired dishes, A visit to the pilot bar is a must for refuelling after a big session in the surf. Occasions Jewellers & Gift Shop, is Enniscrone’s first ever jewellery shop and is a store front for Classic Jewellery. The shop caters for all the needs of locals and visitors alike for gifts, jewellery, and Watch and jewellery repairs etc. Please visit our shop. . . you will go away happy! Enniscrone is now well known for surfing the breakers on the beach. During the summer season there two surf schools working from the beach which are both ISA approved. There is
no feeling so exhilarating as catching your first wave, Enniscrone is the perfect place to introduce yourself to the wonderful world of surfing. .whether you are trying surfing for the first time or wishing to improve two surf schools are available in a safe and enjoyable environment with surfboards and wet suits provided. North West Surf School offer a variety of surf programs for all ages and skills levels. Our programs feature youth surf camps, we also offer surfing lessons such as private and group surf lessons for adults and kid's most of the year round. 7th Wave surf school is run by Linda Byrne, Manager of the Irish Junior Surf Team, Irish Junior surfing Champion Ione Byrne, and Gerard Byrne, one time Irish Surf Team Member. Gerard has 35 years surfing experience. Gerard also shapes custom surfboards, and offers a surfboard repair service. The school offers Weekend Surfing Lessons, One to One Lessons, Corporate Groups and Kids Summer Surf Camps.
Easky, Co. Sligo • Tel: 096-49961
Weekend Special Book Now: Get Surfing this summer Ph: Linda/Ger 0879716389 / 0857385399 Check our website: www.surfsligo.com e.mail 7thwavesurf@eircom.net The Country Life Museum
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Northwest Express April 26th, 2012
Northwest Express April 26th, 2012
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