Northwest Express 13th September 2012 by northwest express

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Property auctions a plunge to the bottom Minister for state takes one A on the chin!

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Former Boxer and Minister for Sport and Tourism, Michael Ring TD, was only too glad to "take it on the chin" from Ballina Boxing Club's five-time National Champion Jamie Conroy, after he officially opened the club's new €50,000 Training and Fitness Centre - dedicated to Ballina and Ireland's Boxing "Great" - the late Dick Hearns. Pictured are Vincent Hearns, son of the late Dick Hearns, Ballina Town Council Mayor Willie Nolan and members of Ballina Boxing Club, former national champion PJ Melia, Vincent McMahon Secretary, Gerry Hickey, Treasurer Joe Lavelle and Brian O'Donnell. Picture Henry Wills

N apartment for €8,000? No, we’re not referring to cost of renting. It is the reserve purchase price. In the forthcoming Allsop Property Auction scheduled for October 3rd, a parcel of three long leasehold two-bedroom apartments in Tubbercurry, Co. Sligo, has a reserve price of €25,000. A contributor to boards.ie noted that even if these properties exceeded the reserve (the standard uplift in some previous Alsop sales has been 10% above the reserve) such prices have strong negative implications for other property prices. The properties in question are long leasehold (999 years), situated on the eastern side of The Fairways, close to the junction with the Ballymote Road (R194). They have a reception room/kitchen, two bedrooms, bathroom with wc and wash basin. Some local auctioneers who are seeking €40k+ for similar properties would contend that these prices are “sensationalist” to say the least, and Allsop may be just seeking attention with such low reserves. However, when we look at some of the asking prices elsewhere in the region we wonder if they are far off the mark. While many commentators talk in terms of a 50% drop from the peak, anecdotal evidence would indicate that the drop is much greater . . . and Daft.ie in its latest report suggests that over 30% of sales are now on a cash basis. According to Kelly-Walsh, who are acting for the Receivers at the Marella development in Enniscrone, the asking prices for the three and four-bedroomed holiday homes are between €90,000 and €120,000. When one contrasts this with asking prices which were in excess of €350,000 for the same properties in 2008 the percentages speak for themselves. A four-bedroom detached house at Cartron Point, Sligo, has an asking price of €75,000 on Daft.ie, similar to asking prices in the estate in 1997. Continued on Page 2

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Northwest Express September 13th, 2012

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Sligo hotel prices down to €79 on average

Pictured are models Aoife Cogan and Sara Morrissey with Seamus MacCormaic, director of market management UK & Ireland, Hotels.com, announcing details of the latest Hotels.com Hotel Price Index (HPI).

otel room rates in Sligo fell 1% in the first half of 2012 according to the latest Hotels.com Hotel Price IndexTM (HPI®). At €79 per night, Sligo is slightly behind the national average of €81 indicating the excellent value on offer in Sligo at present. On a national level, hotel room rates in Ireland remained stable in the first six months of the year compared to the same period last year. At €81 per night, hoteliers have managed to maintain price levels following a modest 4% price increase in 2011 which followed on the back of the high profile state visits last year.

Globally, hotel room prices rose 4% in the same period. This continued stabilisation can be attributed to a number of factors including advanced bookings for festivals and concerts, the return of the conferencing market and the continued value on offer throughout the country. Ireland remains one of the best value destinations in Western Europe with only Portugal (€77) and Malta (€73) less expensive than Ireland at present. Dublin hotel rates rose by 3% in the first half of 2012 compared with 2011 bringing the average hotel price to €77 per night.

The capital’s prices continue to recover, particularly in the five-star and conferencing sectors while advanced bookings for high profile concerts such as Bruce Springsteen and The Stone Roses and festivals such as Dublin City of Science and the Tall Ships have all helped boost prices. However, room rates in Dublin are recovering from several years of steep decline and are still no way near 2008 prices when the average room rate in the capital was €105 per night. Dublin is still one of the best value capital cities in Europe with prices significantly less than London (€137), Stockholm (€135), Oslo (€112) and Rome (€103). Athens is the only Western European capital city cheaper than Dublin at €73 per night. Hotel prices in Belfast rose 18% in the first half of the year to an average of €88. Kilkenny takes the top spot as Ireland’s most expensive destination despite experiencing the largest price drop in Ireland in the first half of the year. Prices in the popular tourist spot fell 8% but the city still commands an average room rate of €96 per night. Galway is the second most expensive destination with prices down just 1% to an average of €94. The city attracted strong leisure business at weekends and advance bookings for popular summer events such as the Galway Arts Festival, the Galway Races and Volvo Ocean Race all helping keep prices stable. At the other end of the scale Limerick is Ireland’s least expensive destination at an average of €64 per night.

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Mayo GAA Feature Page 21 to 25

Property auctions - a plunge to the bottom Continued from front Page So, we can reach our own conclusions on the reserve prices for properties in the West in the forthcoming Allsop sales: Two free-hold semi-detached houses in Headford for €50,000 (one lot); Goldsmith Lodge, Elphin, a freehold three-bedroom detached house, with a reserve of €40,000; a detached four-bedroom two-storey

house on Circular Road, Roscommon town with a reserve of just €50,000; a freehold three-bedroom semi-detached house in Longford for, believe it or not, €20,000; apartments in Carrick-onShannon with reserves of €30,000; a freehold detached four-bedroom house in Laraghmore, Ballyglunin, Tuam with a reserve of €40,000; a three-bedroom end of terrace house in Tarmonbarry, Co. Roscommon, for €55,000.

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Many would contend these reserves do not paint a true picture. These are all “distressed” properties. But, as pointed out by Daft.ie, with so many cash sales and only 4,000 mortgages being granted per quarter by banks (and many of these are re-mortgages), we may have a way to go yet before we reach the bottom . Recent anecdotal reports that banks are not chasing defaulters after foreclosures with the same venom as before is a welcome sign. But it also raises the question of who will pay the balance. It simply means the banks have less money to lend to prospective house purchasers, thus depressing the market even further.

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Northwest Express September 13th, 2012

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Northwest Express September 13th, 2012

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New Suicide Crisis Centre announced for the West

n Monday last, World Suicide Awareness Day, Pieta House announced the opening of its first suicide and self-harm crisis centre in the west of Ireland. Located in Tuam, Co. Galway, this will be Pieta House’s third Centre of Excellence, and will greatly extend the scope of its services which are currently centred around Dublin and Limerick. John Concannon, businessman, philanthropist and star of RTÉ’s The Secret Millionaire,

has been the main driving force behind the campaign to open a Pieta House centre in the West. “The campaign to open a centre here in Tuam has been ongoing for the past 18 months and the support we’ve received from the local community has been really extraordinary,” said John Concannon. “It’s been a three county fundraising effort with Galway, Mayo and Roscommon all working together, and we’re very close to reaching our target amount of €250,000. We have very active committees campaigning and fundraising in each county, and we could not have achieved this great result without their commitment and dedication,” he said. A residential premises on Bishop Street in Tuam has already been secured, and there is a change-ofuse planning application in with the local council. The house is currently just a shell, but unemployed local

tradespeople have generously committed their time and skills to transforming it into a suitable space. This internal work on the house is due to start in five to six weeks’ time. “Last week’s decision by the government to use the €35 million allocated for mental health services this year to offset the deficit in the HSE is very disappointing,” said Joan Freeman, CEO and founder of Pieta House. “This move is further proof that we all need to come together as a community in the fight against suicide and make things happen for ourselves. The opening of our Tuam centre would not have happened without John Concannon, and such local heroes are needed now more than ever,” she said. The demand for Pieta House’s services continues to grow, and the first six months of this year saw a 40% increase in the number of people attending Pieta House. The age groups that saw the biggest increase were men aged 26-44 (62%) and men aged 45-64 (67%).

“Although this increase is encouraging, we still find that men are far less likely than women to seek help, particularly those in the under-25 age group. We urge people to contact us if they believe that one of their family members or friends may be in difficulty,” said Joan Freeman. Pieta House provides its services free of charge and by the end of this year will have helped more than 8,000 people since its establishment in 2006. As 80% of Pieta House’s funding comes from public donations, local fundraising is vital to ensure that the organisation can cope with the increasing numbers seeking help. “We believe that mental health is a basic human right and we want to reinforce the message that communities need to embrace those in suicidal distress,” said Joan Freeman. “I hope the success of John Concannon’s campaign against suicide in the West will inspire others to come together and make a positive difference in their own areas,” she said.

Castlebar and Ballina getting cleaner

MAYO’S County town, Castlebar, and the north Mayo capital of Ballina, have waged some of the best anti-litter campaigns in the country, according to a survey by Irish Business Against Litter (IBAL). Castlebar came in fourth and Ballina secured 9th spot in the national ratings. Castlebar Town Councillor Eugene McCormack said that the news was ‘absolutely wonderful’ for Castlebar. “This is an endorsement of all the hard work by the different organisations, particularly the Tidy Towns committee, local businesses and of course the town council. They have all put great efforts into cleaning-up and enhancing the town. Some months ago we had a lot of visitors during the choral festival and we were delighted to receive much positive commentary about recent developments; the jewel in the crown is of course the works at Lough Lannagh. The main street project has also greatly improved the atmosphere and quality of the town,” Cllr McCormack said. He said monies were already ringfenced for the next phase of developments at Lough Lannagh, which will see the extension of the walkway to Islandeady, subject to landholder approval. A spokesman for An Taisce said:

“Castlebar was very good in 2011 and gets its best result ever in the eleven years of IBAL Anti-Litter League in 2012. Nine out of ten sites surveyed got the top litter grade. It was one of four towns to achieve this excellent result. What sets Castlebar and other top ranking towns apart is not just the lack of litter but the way in which the environment is presented and maintained. Some neglected buildings on Ellison Street were the only blemish.” Speaking about Ballina, the spokesman said: “Ballina continues to get closer to the top – like Castlebar. This is Ballina’s best result since IBAL Anti-Litter League began 11 years ago. Eight out of the ten sites surveyed got the top litter grade. The train station and all four approach roads set a very high standard. In the majority of the sites it wasn’t just the lack of litter but the overall presentation and maintenance of the sites, for example, St Oliver Plunkett School, St. Mary’s Secondary School and Amana residential estate.” Dr Tom Kavanagh, IBAL’s chairman, congratulated both towns for achieving such high ratings in the national survey, which rated the towns according to the criteria of: ‘Cleaner than European Norms’.

Driving licensing changes coming into effect on the 19th January 2013 AT present you can get a licence or permit for a truck at age 18 and a bus at age 21. These ages are changing in January to 21 and 24 respectively for larger and articulated trucks and buses (C &EC, D &ED). The minimum age will remain unchanged for the small truck and minibus (C1, EC1, D1, ED1). The rule change will apply effective from the 19th January, any person on that date holding an existing full licence and who is under the new minimum age can continue to drive unaffected. A person holding a learner permit for either vehicle, after that date while able to drive on the permit until it expires, won’t be able to take out a full licence unless they meet the new higher minimum age. The new rule will not apply to professional drivers. They are already subject to more stringent rules of CPC. They can get a permit or full licence as they do now. The change will impact on bus and truck drivers who are presently intending to take the normal (non-CPC) licence. They do, however, have the option to take the CPC route which will involve doing an additional theory test as well as enhanced driving test and by doing so avoid the higher minimum age restriction. The RSA have promised to make extra driving tests available over the coming months for learners who want to take a test in advance of January 2013. 5 year renewal for truck and bus licences. Full licences issued after the 19th January 2013 in bus and truck categories will expire afer five years, as opposed to the current ten year expiry date. All current licences at that date will last until expiry date on the licence and will thereafter expire every five years. A medical report will be needed with every renewal of a truck or bus licence. This information has been supplied by Declan Duignan at Duignan School of Motoring, Carrick-on-Shannon. If you need any further information or need to get your driving test done before the end of 2012 contact Declan.

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Northwest Express September 13th, 2012

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Carrick Supermac’s goes for gold

T’S celebration time for Supermac’s in Carrick-on-Shannon who have beaten off stiff competition from hundreds of excellent Irish Restaurants in its bid to go for gold at this year’s National Q Mark Awards. The prestigious nomination will see Enda McGovern, the Restaurant’s owner

and his team donning their tuxedos and evening gowns to be photographed by the paparazzi, as they walk the red carpet at this year’s star-studded Q Mark ceremony, which takes place on September 28th at Dublin’s Burlington Hotel. At last week’s announcement of finalists at EIQA House in Dublin, the team

from Supermac’s were being tipped as being the hot contenders to win one of the most prestigious categories; The Q Mark Award for Hygiene and Food Safety in the category for Fast Service Restaurants, having also been nominated last year. The award honours Restaurants for their achievement in being recognised as having the highest standard of Hygiene and Food Safety in the country. Supermac’s in Carrick-on-Shannon was opened in 2004 and are proud to be part of the largest indigenous brand in the quick service sector. As a supporter of the local community they are delighted to offer employment to twenty people from the local area and endeavour to offer a wide menu to suit all tastes. The Q Mark is recognised by a staggering 87% of Irish consumers as guaranteeing us with services of the highest standards of quality and excellence, so we should be very proud to have Supermac’s named in these prestigious awards, as it is a testament to the hard work and commitment they show us, their customers. They can be sure that we will be lending them our total support for the final in Dublin, on September 28, as we already consider them to be a Leitrim winner for being named amongst those at the top of The ‘Q’.

20 % increase in international students at IT Sligo

IT Sligo has witnessed a 20 per cent increase in the number of international students enrolling this year. Some 150 students from France, USA, Germany, Spain, Italy, Belgium, Austria, Sweden, Finland, Czech Republic and Oman joined the group of almost 1,300 first years who registered at the Institute this week. The Mayor of Sligo, Cllr David Cawley, hosted a Civic Reception for the international students at City Hall. Mayor Cawley praised the Institute for its ‘impressive’ and ‘ambitious’ interna-

tional strategy. “There is also an important civic dimension to this agenda,” he said. “Sligo Borough Council and IT Sligo have worked together on a number of programmes, and we share your ambition to promote and showcase Sligo to an international audience.” During their first week in Sligo, the students were provided with a full induction by the Institute’s International Office, which included tours of local attractions like Knocknarea Mountain and Glencar Waterfall. The President of IT Sligo, Professor Terri

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Scott extended a warm welcome to the students on behalf of the IT Sligo community; “The students bring an energy and vibrancy to Sligo and we’re delighted to welcome them back in even bigger number this year,” said Professor Terri Scott, President of IT Sligo. “The increase we’re experiencing in our full-time and international students at the start of this academic year is a result of a concerted effort to build on our student numbers and to further enhance the reach of the Institute.” “We extend a particularly warm welcome to our international students. In line with the national prioritization on internationalisation in higher education, we aim to increase our international students to 250 by 2014, or 6.3 per cent of our student numbers,” she said. “In the last 40 years, IT Sligo has grown from a small RTC to the modern 70acre campus it is today - providing courses in Science, Engineering, Design, Business and Social Sciences - and we have ambitious plans for its future. Together with our counterparts in GMIT and LYIT, we are collaborating in a strategic partnership called the Connacht-Ulster Alliance. Together the 3 institutes of technology have a stated ambition to be re-designated as a Technological University. Gaining this redesignation is critical for the West and North West because it will impact considerably on the economic future of this part of the country.” Re-designation with Technological University status will only be facilitated if higher education institutions meet rigorous criteria laid out by Government, explained Professor Scott, but the ambition of the Connacht-Ulster Alliance is to meet that criterion and to maintain an equality of access to higher education in the Connacht-Ulster region. The anticipated timeframe for the process as set out by Government in the National Strategy for Higher Education is up to five years. Next week lectures resume at the Institute with almost 4,000 full-time students coming to Sligo to continue their studies.

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Northwest Express September 13th, 2012

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Out and about at The Royal Theatre Castlebar for the...

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Northwest Express September 13th, 2012

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Attending the opening of the William Vincent Wallace exhibition in Ballina Library to commence the town's week-long bicentenary celebrations of the famous composer were from left, Dara Calleary TD., Ballina Town Mayor Collr. Willie Nolan, Dr. David Grant, committee members Collr. Barry McLoughlin and Liam McHale, 93 years old Joan Allen (also pictured right) who performed in the Ballina production of the composer's opera Maritana in 1935 and Mons P.J. Gallagher, who was a young ticket seller at the production. The bicentenary celebrations continue this week and culminate in a Gala Tribute Concert in St Muredach's Cathedral next Sunday 16th Sept at 8p.m. Picture Henry Wills.

New campaign launched by Women’s Aid

WOMEN'S Aid are encouraging women living with domestic abuse in the North West to speak up and seek help. Statistics reveal one in five women in Ireland is affected by domestic abuse but a third of those will never tell anyone what is happening to them In 2011, the Women's Aid National Freephone Helpline answered over 11,000 calls from thousands of abused women living in a constant state of fear. The Women's Aid National Freephone Helpline 1800 341 900 is open from 10am to 10pm, 7 days a week, free of charge, throughout the Republic. Speaking at the launch of their Don't Be Afraid campaign,

Deirdre Martin says the campaign will provide information of where women can seek help in Sligo, Leitrim and Donegal.

Politicians asked to resign if they support cuts?

THE Roscommon Hospital Action Committee has called for Government Oireachtas members and county councillors in Roscommon to resign if they “insist on choosing The Troika and the banks over vulnerable people.” Condemning €140m in Health Budget cuts announced “by the Minister of Health James Reilly through the HSE,” the HAC says that once again it is the most vulnerable people in society who are set to suffer. The HAC said: “Those who will suffer are older people who need home help to enable them to live at home….also in the firing line are home care packages for children and adults with special needs who require or whose minders require assistance to care for them at home.” The HAC statement continued: “The Minister has made a u-turn on the cuts proposed to care assistants for people with disabilities, but only after he was shamed by public protests and Trioka intervention. “The government and the Minister’s spin on these cuts is shameful. The facts are very simple: James Reilly, Minister of Health, introduced the Health Budget for 2012 which was approved by the Oireachtas. In that budget he specified that he as Minister would generate income from Health insurers by charging private patients when they use public beds and (that) he would reduce

the spend on medicines by negotiating price reductions with suppliers. These two measures were, in total, to generate/save €129m. The cut now being applied is €130m. “We are not supporters of the HSE or anything but, but in this situation the Minister, not the HSE, is the one incapable of – and not for the first time – delivering on his commitments. A cut of €130m being proposed in the health budget is the equivalent of a cut of €520m in a full year. Everybody knew last June that the Health Budget was over-expended, but the Minister did nothing. The cuts he and the government are proposing to home helps and home care packages is totally contrary to both Fine Gael and Labour Health Policy who declared to the electorate that they would expand community care, home care and primary care, as these services are more beneficial to users and more cost-effective than Acute Hospital or Nursing Home Care. We keep hearing about the large mandate the government was given by the electorate but as happened in Roscommon with A&E services – and now happening with home help and home care – these were election promises/lies.” The statement also said the government (and Minister) know the country was in financial difficulties before the election, but it didn’t stop them making their election promises.

THIRTY qualified nurses were laid off in Mayo last week by HSE West, it has been revealed. Local representatives have voiced their serious concerns about the development. Independent Councillor Michael Kilcoyne confirmed 20 nurses were being made redundant at Mayo General Hospital while a further 10 were let go by the county’s mental health services. The Castlebar representative said the nurses in question had been appointed following the retirement of staff earlier this year. He has also revealed that 16 beds are to close at the Castlebar facility. He stated: “The fact 30 nurses and 16 beds are being taken out of the equation is devastating news for the sick and infirm. Mayo General Hospital was already at crisis point before the losses were announced while the mental health service is now expected to operate with a skeleton staff. It’s a shocking indictment on the health and political systems and begs the question in regard to where it’s all going to end. It is the patients that will suffer most.” The announcment came in a week in which the HSE revealed its intentions to implement further cuts of €125 million. Meanwhile, the medical assessment unit at Mayo General Hospital is to close this week for an indefinite period. Councillor Kilcoyne said staff had been informed of the decision and the facility is being shut down due to a shortage of nurses. The medical assessment unit is used to assess patients referred to the Mayo General Hospital by their GP and also accommodates overspill when the emergency department is full. The closure of the unit will mean longer waiting times for those attending A&E.

Northwest Express September 13th, 2012

Loss Assessors YOUR DEFINITIVE GUIDE

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We represent you! We offer a fast professional service so don’t leave your claim to chance! Our first consultation is free, so don't hesitate to contact us. Leitrim: Tel: 071 983 3780 Mob: 086 600 7800 Tullaghan, Co. Leitrim

Donegal: Tel: 071 983 3865 Unit 3, Main Street, Bundoran, Co. Donegal

info@expertassessors.ie • www.expertassessors.ie White & Associates is regulated by the Cental Bank of Ireland (formely the Irish Financial Services Regulatory Authority)

Your Loss Assessor will handle all aspects of the claims process

A Loss Assessor represents policyholders when they need to submit an Insurance claim, and our members have experience in dealing with all types of claim, for both private individuals and businesses. Your Assessor will handle all aspects of the claims process, meeting with the Insurers' representatives, the Loss Adjuster or any other professional appointed by them, preparing your claim and negotiating the best possible settlement for you.They will also handle cases where liability for your claim has been refused by insurers, or where problems have arisen regarding policy liability or delays.

A Loss Assessor will:

• Attend on you immediately • Prepare the claim • Negotiate best terms for settlement on your behalf

For what type of claim is a Loss Assessor needed?

The services of a Loss Assessor should be sought for all claims following loss by: •Fire • Theft • Flood • Storm • Business Interruption • Oil & Chemical Pollution • Subsidence • Computer Loss • Transit • Natural Disaster • Motor • Third Party Property Claims

Why should I need a Loss Assessor? The only reason why anyone effects insurance is against the possibility of a claim. So when a claim does arise you have the right to expect that your

Insurance Company will deal with it in a sympathetic manner and in such a way that does not leave you financially disadvantaged. Sadly, the reality is often very different. In dealing with a claim of any size, the Insurance Company will appoint a LOSS ADJUSTER or representative. He is ENGAGED and PAID by the Insurance Company. There are always grey areas Claims assessing is not an exact science and there are many instances where there is no absolute answer to the way a claim for a particular item should be settled. Human nature being what it is, the Loss Adjuster is likely to lean towards his principals, the Insurance Company. LOSS ASSESSORS charge a fee agreed with you in advance, for the work undertaken ON YOUR BEHALF

When should I appoint my Loss Assessor?

Loss Assessors and Claims Managers

Tel: 096-60070 / 087-7995510 • • Members of the Insurance Institute • of Ireland • and offer a • Nationwide Service • •

Burst Pipes/Water Ingress Flood Damage Fire and Smoke Damage Storm and Lightning Damage Subsidence • Oil Leaks Business Interruption • Theft Malicious Damage/Vandalism

Contact our office for a free, no obligation, review of your insurance policy documentation.

Breaffy, Ballina, Co. Mayo e:info@sbassociates.ie • www.sbassociates.ie

The way a claim is prepared and presented if every bit as important as the way in which it is negotiated and settled. You therefore need to appoint a LOSS ASSESSOR as soon as you realise that you have a claim. DON’T WAIT until things start to go wrong – when the Insurance Company’s LOSS ADJUSTER tells you that you are not entitled to claim for something which you were convinced forms part of your claim – or when the LOSS ADJUSTER tries to reduce the amount you are claiming. Often quoting “small print” in the policy

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 interferences? We look after the paperwork in negotiating your insurance claim. We act on your behalf to get the best possible outcome. Regulated by the Financial AuthorityNationwide Service

Holborn St., Sligo

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

Northwest Express September 13th, 2012

news

Do You Have any news or photos for us? Email them into us at

email: info@theexpress.ie

Mayo’s national digital switchover week 17–23 September

Pictured at the recent Mature Living Exhibition, Castlebar, are Gerard Duffy - Mayo Outreach Programme, May Kelly, Eileen McDermott, Mary McGarry, Anne Mulligan, Annie Gimartin and Caroline Wilson - Mayo Outreach Champion

ational Digital Switchover Week will take place from 17th – 23rd September, 2012 and organisers have announced a series of events and initiatives throughout Mayo to encourage those who have not yet switched to digital TV to do so during the week. Details were announced on Monday by the Minister for Communications, Energy & Natural Resources, Mr. Pat Rabbitte whose Department has developed National Digital Switchover Week in partnership with The Wheel and Irish Rural Link. The week will see 26 local Digital Outreach Champions across the country - including Caroline Wilson of Knockmore-Rathduff Recreation & Resource Centre organise events in their communities to encourage those who

have not yet switched to digital TV to do so during National Digital Switchover Week. The week of events will conclude just one month before the analogue TV network in Ireland is switched off at 10.00am on Wednesday 24th October, 2012. From coffee mornings to information events in local shopping centres and from family fun day events to open days in local community centres, National Digital Switchover Week will feature a whole range of events and initiatives across Mayo aimed at encouraging local communities throughout the county to get informed, make the switch to digital TV and not leave it until the last minute. Retailers throughout Mayo will also be offering special deals as part of National Digital Switchover Week. ll those still using the old analogue TV

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Midwest Hospice Morning

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Info Event followed Ballinrobe Family Reby “ The Fog” source Centre

network will continue to see a ‘bug’ on the bottom right corner of their TV screen which will be a permanent reminder and countdown to analogue switchover date, October 24th. This ‘bug’ will remain on all analogue TV screens until October 24th or until those TV sets have been switched to the digital network. A full list of National Digital Switchover Week events and guidance on the Digital Switchover are available at www.goingdigital.ie, through LoCall 1890 940 980 (English language) and 1890 940 970 (Irish language). Caroline Wilson can be reached at 086 2899296 or wcaroline79@gmail.com

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Contract to upgrade water treatment plant at Tourmakeady

...Bespoke Fireplaces made to order Signing the contract between Mayo County Council and Response Engineering in respect of an Upgrade for the water treatment plant at Tourmakeady Pictured are: Front Row l-R Tony Considine and John Knowles of Response Engineering, Cllr Cyril Burke Cathaoirleach Mayo Co. Council, Peter Hynes, Mayo Co. Manager, Paul Benson M.C.C.Ciaran McGovern of Tobins Consulting Engineers. Back Row Lto R Noel Burke and Gilbert Groarke Mayo Co Council,Jim Moore senior resident engineer,Peter Duggan and Ms Lavinia Horan, Mayo County Council. Photo: Tom Campbell

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Northwest Express September 13th, 2012

news

Do You Have any news or photos for us? Email them into us at

email: info@theexpress.ie

Hotel Westport Welcomes 107 Members of 'Pats Peak 2012' to Ireland

Eithne Cosgrove, Director of Sales & Marketing at Hotel Westport, Richard Graham, MP in the UK Houses of Parliament, Former Cathaoirleach of Westport Town Council Christy Hyland, Jim Hickman the President of the Gloucester North, Rotary Club, Ann Moore Westport Town Clerk and Counsellor Teresa Maguire.

by Rachael Kelly

ivil unrest, impending hurricane and ongoing violence were left behind by the worlds media as pictures of Prince Harry became viral, filled front pages globally and became the top trending on twitter. While many envy the lifestyle of the British monarchy it is at times such as these when a young man, single without responsibility finds photographs of himself enjoying friendly banter with his mates splashed across the world, that we realise just how different life has been for these young royals. Many are quick to condemn the actions of the Prince in engaging in an apparent game of strip poker yet there are few who haven’t been involved in similar incidents in their youth, many alcohol fuelled. Placed in such a public position it is obvious that Harry’s antics are always going to receive more attention yet is it really so

Prince Harry photos scandalous and outrageous that a young twenty seven year old on holidays with his friends strips. Or is it more shocking that the world’s media can justify printing such photographs across entire pages when current affairs and real life problems are pushed to later pages. Likewise, can we denounce such messing when the reality is that these pictures would never have caused the widespread had his ‘friends’ respected his privacy. Harry engaged in such behaviour thinking he was among people he could trust yet one of those betrayed him, in exchange for a rumoured one million pound cheque. Surely the most disturbing outcome of these pictures is the reality that it appears we are living in a society where you can put a price on friendship. While Harry may have received the most affluent education, worn only designer clothes and be son of the people’s princess he has also been forced from an early age to realise that there are in fact few people he can trust. While representing the UK on various occasions it is undoubtedly essential that Harry appear professional, respectful and act in the typical proper manner that the Windsor family continue to do so well it is unfair to expect Harry, or indeed any member of royalty to sacrifice their youth to do so. Prince Harry is one of the most-recognised and loved figure in Britain, with

many favouring both his own and elder brother William’s more laidback, approachable manner to the sterner, more uppity conduct previously associated with the British monarchy. And while these pictures weren’t ideal and I’m sure have caused many headaches in Buckingham they relay the fact that even Prince Harry is human. So although the pictures are somewhat damaging or as many criticise degrading of

the monarchy they were never intended to be in the eyes of the public. Prince Harry was simply living his life and the media have attempted to profit from his position.

self motivated people to run their own business from home, earn €300 €3,000 per month full or part time full training given telephone Liza 0871219666

Northwest Express September 13th, 2012

Ballina, Co. Mayo

entertainment guide

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Weddings, Private Parties, Communions, etc. Full Packages available, see Website for details

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When?

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his scintillating production of ABBA THE SHOW which takes places on Monday 8th October at 8pm, represents all that is best from one of the worlds most popular and successful hit recording groups and features all the hits and more, in

this truly dynamic and nostalgic two-hour production. Taking you back to the time when flares were all the rage, and glitter was great, the show is performed, in costume, by the award winning group, ‘Bjorn out of Smackee’.

Now firmly established as the finest production of its kind currently on the circuit, this presentation has already met with great success all over the world, which has included trips to Vienna, Athens and Monte Carlo, in addition to a very successful tour of Ireland, where the show is held in particular esteem. The highlight was TWO SELL OUT PERFORMANCES at the Waterfront in Belfast, and the Cork Opera House, where the show played to 2000 people each night!! So dust off your flares, and start working on those groovy moves! The group say that they are on a mission to leave everyone saying ‘THANK YOU FOR THE MUSIC’, and to make you feel like a ‘DANCING QUEEN’ all over again! The group are enjoying high sales of their show DVD and CD, now on general release, and believe it or not, people are buying it in Sweden, the home soil of the original Abba! The cast consists of; Benny: Barry Walker, Bjorn: Rob Mackenzie, Agnetha: Dawn Glenville, Frida: Margaret Barnes. Also Keith Liddle on Keyboards and Tom Mollins on bass. Tickets €22.65 are available from the Royal Theatre Box office on 0818 300 000 or 094 9023111.Also from www.RoyalTheatre.ie or ticketmaster.

CONTEMPO QUARTET & JOHN FEELEY AT THE LINENHALL THERE’S a night of Classical gold on the cards when ConTempo String Quartet and top Irish guitarist John Feeley perform at the Linenhall Arts Centre in Castlebar on Thursday 20th September at 8.00pm as part of Galway Music Residency’s 10th year anniversary celebrations. The Galway Music Residency is the oldest residency programme in Ireland and the only one of its kind in existence in this country. It has served the people of Galway and beyond with performances, masterclasses, workshops and more. ConTempo String Quartet from Romania has been at the heart of the residency from the early days, moving to Galway as four young twenty-somethings and now 10 years later living permanently in Galway. To mark this milestone,The Galway Music Residency has invited some musicians who have worked with ConTempo over the past 10 years to return for this Celebratory Tour. For this very special concert, ConTempo share the stage with John Feeley, acclaimed by The Washington Post as “Ireland's leading classical guitarist”. The programme includes a selection of quartets, quintets and guitar solos, including, Luigi Boccherini’s Guitar Quintet in E minor, G. 451, which is featured on The Galway Music Residency 10th Anniversary Celebration CD. Funding for this concert has been provided by The Arts Council. "ConTempo… polished and professional… full of exuber-

ance and with a fine sense of ensemble … real sensitivity … exceptional performance." - The Strad ( Wigmore Hall concert review) ConTempo String Quartet and John Feeley perform at the Linenhall Arts

Centre on Thursday 20th September 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 September 13th, 2012

FLORISTRY SCHOOL

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www.mayoplumber.ie • info@mayoplumber.ie Boiler Service €65 • Gas Cooker Service €60 • Leaks Repaired from €45 Outside Taps Supplied and Fitted €85 • Electric Shower Replacement €330 Condensing Gas Boiler Replacement €1395 (5 Yr Warranty) Condensing Oil Boiler Replacement €1495 • Thermostatic Rad Valve Fitted €28

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Come in and check out our new workshop and showroom. With almost 20 years experience Inland Inflatable Service has moved to a new purpose built 8000 sq foot Rib and Inflatable Boat Service and Repair Center in Collooney, Co Sligo. Inland Inflatable Service has a large selection of Inflatable boats in our new showroom. We also offer Sales and Service of Yamaha and Honda Outboards.

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Northwest Express September 13th, 2012

tech news & science

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

FBI disputes Apple hacker claims

The FBI is disputing a computer hacker group's claim that it stole personal identification data on more than a million Apple device owners from an FBI agent's laptop. The FBI said it has never asked for and never possessed the database that the group, which calls itself AntiSec, is posting on a website. The group released a link to a database of more than a million Apple device identification numbers. Federal officials are warning that computer users should be careful when clicking on such links because they may contain malware that can infect computers. AntiSec is a hacker group affiliated with Anonymous, a collection of activists who have targeted governments, officials or corporations over a variety of political grievances. Apple did not respond to requests for comment.

Property app targets deposit rows A mobile phone app that could reduce disputes between landlords and their tenants has been launched. Housing charity Shelter Scotland created the free Housemate app for iPhones in a bid to help prevent and resolve rows over tenancy deposits. Director Graeme Brown hailed it as a "simple but highly effective" tool. The Housemate app, which is sponsored by the property services group Orchard and Shipman, generates a full digital inventory of a property's contents and condition, with photos included. The creators of the app hope these inventories will be so comprehensive that there will be few grounds for argument between landlords and their tenants when it comes to returning a deposit at the end of a tenancy. Mr Brown said: "Too many tenants have all or part of their deposit withheld unfairly and their chances of arguing successfully for its return are often compromised by a lack of evidence. "With Housemate, both tenant and landlord will have the proof they need. "Not only does it create a full record of what a property contains and the condition it's in, it also includes photographic evidence. "The resulting inventory can then be shared via email. It's simple but highly effective. "We hope that for users of Housemate arguments over deposits will become a thing of the past and landlords and tenants alike can enjoy a positive, mutually-beneficial relationship."

'Online squatting' hits record levels as businesses are warned about practice

omplaints about online ‘squatters’ have reached a record high in the past year - a practice that sees users try to secure a genuine trademark or celebrity’s name online. Disputes over internet domain names, which are dealt with by the World Intellectual Property

Organisation, totalled 2,944 in the 12 months to July, a six per cent increase on the year before, said legal information provider Sweet & Maxwell. John Olsen, partner at law firm Edwards Wildman, and editor of Domain Names: Global Practice and Procedure, said

one of the key reasons for this happening was the increase in online sales from big brands. 'As online retail becomes more profitable, household name brands are taking the defence of their domain names much more seriously,' Olsen said. 'They are doing all that

they can to protect their revenue streams - domain names are the key to the door of online retail.' He added businesses needed to be aware 'squatters' were registering these domain names so they could hold them to ransom or sell fake goods in their name.

Pirate Bay co-founder Gottfrid Svartholm arrested in Cambodia

GOTTFRID Svartholm, one of the three founders of the Pirate Bay website, has been arrested on an

international arrest warrant in Cambodia, police have confirmed. The 27-year-old was held in Phnom Penh over a warrant issued by Sweden five months ago. His arrest was made at the request of the Swedish government for a crime related to information technology,' Cambodia police spokesman Kirth Chantharith told the AFP news agency. 'We don't have an extradition treaty with Sweden but we'll look into our laws and see how we can handle this case.' Svartholm was convicted alongside Pirate Bay co-founders Fredrik Neij and Peter Sunde, as well as financier Carl Lundstroem, over copyright violations in 2009. The latter three had their oneyear jail terms reduced to be-

tween four and ten months in a 2010 appeal but were still ordered to 46million kronor (£4.4million) in damages. The sentence for Svartholm was upheld however after he failed to attend a court appearance.

Their website was officially shut down in 2006, three years after it was founded, but users still find ways to use its torrents to share TV, film and music files. It is thought Pirate Bay could still have 30million users globally.

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Northwest Express September 13th, 2012

w rldnews

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

US casino cooks up 10ft wide world record breaking bacon cheeseburger A casino in the US has cooked up the world's biggest bacon cheeseburger.

he giant dish measured ten feet in diameter, weighing more than a tonne and was served up this weekend at the Black Bear Casino Resort near Carlton, Minnesota. It tipped the scales at 2,014lb, making it far larger than the previous record holder at 881lb 13oz, the Duluth News Tribune reports. The burger included a whopping 60lb of bacon, 50lb of lettuce, 50lb of sliced

onions, 40lb of pickles and 40lb of cheese, containing a phenomenal 4.1 million calories. This is comparable to the average quarter-pounder bacon double cheeseburger from Burger King, which amounts to 580 calories in total. Guinness Records representative Philip Robertson verified the biggest burger record, describing the feat as a result of 'remarkable teamwork', before adding that it 'actually tastes really good'.

The monster patty took around four hours to cook using an outdoor oven with propane torches. A crane was used to flip it over and after it was fully assembled gamblers at the casino were invited to dig in as part of the venue's Big Burger Bash. The US is very familiar with super-sized dishes, also holding the record for the world's biggest-ever plate of spaghetti, at 786lb.

Scuba instructor shocks girlfriend with underwater proposal Wat-er way to do it: Ollie Meaden and Hayley Short in their scuba diving gear

A scuba instructor has shown his love knows no bounds – by proposing to his girlfriend 30m (100ft) under the sea. Ollie Meaden stunned Hayley Short by presenting her with a diamond ring during a dive to the sunken ferry MS Zenobia in Cyprus. The 30-year-old also whipped out a waterproof banner asking Miss Short if she would marry him, to which she responded by ‘nodding profusely’. Miss Short, 27, said: ‘It was such a romantic proposal and so well thought out – I was really touched. ‘I had no idea what was going on because I was looking for fish, but when I re-

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alised, I was overjoyed.’ The couple, from Eastney, Hampshire, met at the Portsmouth branch of the British SubAqua Club a year ago and grew close after becoming ‘dive buddies’. They are now starting to prepare for their spring 2014 wedding. Mr Meaden said: ‘I’d been planning the proposal since Christmas. ‘Hayley’s dad lives out of the country so I waited until I could ask his permission – the old-fashioned way.’ Figures show that almost 40 per cent of scuba divers find love underwater and more than half of those go on to establish serious relationships.

Underwater wheelchair dancing dazzles at Cultural Olympiad

AN artist hopes to help change people's perspectives of disability by performing underwater acrobatics in a specially-designed wheelchair. Sue Austin, from Devon, has created a unique performance in which she combines scuba with dance in Creating the Spectacle. She is performing her underwater art as part of the Cultural Olympiad during the Paralympics. Ms Austin, who has been wheelchairbound since 1996 after contracting ME and learned to scuba dive around seven years ago, modified the NHS wheelchair with swimming floats, fins and propulsion units controlled by her feet. She said she had initially been told by engineers the wheelchair design, which was part-funded by National Lottery money, would not work underwater. But after wowing audiences with spectacular underwater performances, Ms Austin told the Daily Mail: 'We've created something new and exciting and it's really getting people talking. 'As a result, they're realising that viewing the world from a different perspective inspires them to be free to explore new experiences.'

McDonald's to open first vegetarian-only restaurant in India THE US food giant, famous for its Big Mac burgers, is keen to tailor its fast-food to suit the country's predominant Hindu and Muslim communities, which has led to the decision to take beef and pork off the menu. It will open its first vegetarian outlet in the middle of next year near the Golden Temple in Amritsar, northern India. 'It will be the first time we have opened a vegetarian restaurant in the world,' explained McDonald's spokesman Rajesh Kumar Maini. McDonald's in India already has a menu that is 50 per cent vegetarian, with the McAloo Tikki, a spicy fried potato-based patty burger, its top seller.

Northwest Express September 13th, 2012

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.

Is Your Diet Good For Your Skin? waist-whittling diet. But the benefits don’t end there—eating Mediterranean may also protect against melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, a recent Italian study suggests. On the cosmetic front, omega-3 fatty acids in fish help keep skin-cell membranes strong and elastic. And antioxidants in leafy greens and olive oil may protect against ultraviolet light and other environmental assaults that can break down collagen and elastin, the structural supports that keep skin plump and smooth. Result: less sagging and fewer wrinkles later. Olive oil, tomatoes, and red wine also have antioxidants that help block the chemical reactions that lead to sun damage, explains Leslie Baumann, MD, chief executive officer of the Baumann Cosmetic and Research Institute in Miami Beach, Florida.

ure, your diet keeps your body slim and healthy, but its impact doesn’t stop there. The food you eat—from wrinklefighting antioxidants in fruits and vegetables to hydrating healthy fats in fish—may matter to your skin almost as much as it does to your waistline. Is your way of noshing helping or hurting your complexion? We asked top docs for their take on the facefriendliness of six popular diets. Read on to see if yours passes the beauty test, and find out how you can alter what you eat for Aplus skin. Mediterranean (such as The Mediterranean Diet and The Mediterranean Prescription) The lowdown: Fish, leafy greens, olive oil, and fruit are the stars of this heart-healthy,

Skin Rx: Red wine contains resveratrol, an antioxidant that’s great for skin—but sip in moderation. Overdoing it can dehydrate you, leaving skin dry. Too much alcohol can also generate free radicals, which can break down collagen, leading to wrinkles, Dr. Baumann says. Vegetarian/vegan (such as The New Becoming Vegetarian and Skinny Bitch) The lowdown: Whether you skip meat and other animal products for your health, ethical reasons, or both, you probably eat more fresh produce and whole grains as a result— good news for your skin. The antioxidants in these eats neutralize the free radicals that contribute to wrinkles, brown spots, and other signs of aging. Plant-based protein sources may also have super skin benefits. For example, beans contain zit-battling zinc and decrease inflammation, a culprit behind redness, pim-

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ples, and premature wrinkles, says Nicholas Perricone, MD, author of Forever Young: The Science of Nutrigenomics for Glowing, Wrinkle-Free Skin and Radiant Health at Every Age. On the other hand, some studies suggest that dairy contributes to acne, Dr. Baumann says; consider other protein sources if breakouts are a problem. Skin Rx: Veggie diets tend to be low in fat, so incorporate ground flaxseeds and olive and safflower oils to help your skin retain water, making it more supple, Dr. Baumann says. High-protein, low-carb (such as South Beach Diet and Atkins) The lowdown: First, the good news: Cutting back on white bread, pasta, and refined sugar in order to fight flab can also lower the secretion of the stress hormone cortisol and minimize breakouts, says Manhattan dermatologist Francesca Fusco, MD. Moderate plans that swap in whole grains, fresh produce, and lean meats also up antioxidants, blemish-busting zinc, and collagenbuilding protein. But beware of more meat-heavy plans: Getting some cholesterol from red meat will shore up skin cells’ protective lipid layer, but "eating too much animal fat can result in an increased production of free radicals, which are thought to interfere with normal cellular processing," says New York City– based aesthetic dermatologist Lisa Airan, MD. "This may cause premature cell death," which can lead to sagging skin. Skin Rx: Drink lots of water to keep skin hydrated. Choose fish and other lean proteins—not just saturated fat–laden red meat. Eat antioxidant-rich leafy greens daily.

addiction counselling • Alcohol • Drug & Substance Abuse • Smoking • Gambling • Overeating • Addictive Sexual Behaviours • Addictive Compulsive Habits We give a personal guarantee that we will get to the root cause of your problem, and we are totally committed to helping our clients achieve their goals.

For more information or bookings call Patricia Heneghan on 087-6886239 Email: info@galway-counselling.ie Visit: www.galway-counselling.ie

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Tel: 096-72189 087-6389500 Mon-Thu 9.30 - 6pm / Fri 9.30 - 5pm

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St. John’s Place, Westport, Co. Mayo

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. Contact: Michelle Fox Beepark Resource Centre, Newline, Manorhamilton, Co.Leitrim Office: 071 9856070 Mobile: 086 7772009 Email:northweststop@yahoo.ie

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Counsellors are professionally trained and are fully accredited or working towards accreditation. For appointments ring: 087-2879707, 086-4000555 or 074-9723822 Email: tabourhouse2004@eircom.net Tabor House, Drimark, Donegal Town

Helping people to recover

education t!aining

17 Sligo College of Further Education (SCFE) - The North West’s largest provider of Further Education opportunities

t this time of gloom and doom it is gratifying to witness the continued success and development of Sligo College of Further Education. Over the past four years numbers have increased fivefold, millions have been invested in facilities and the range and diversity of courses is changing and increasing every year to meet the needs of students throughout the region and beyond. Mr Joe Carolan, Principal of the College is not surprised at these developments. He attributes the success of the College to a number of factors including the dedication, professionalism and enthusiasm of his staff, the huge ongoing investment in facilities, its links and proximity to Sligo Institute of Technology and its capacity to respond to the needs of industry and Higher Education Institutions throughout Ireland and abroad. SCFE now offers over twenty different courses in areas as diverse as Social Studies, Nursing, Childcare, Business, Tourism, Design, Art, Hairdressing and Beauty, Complementary Therapies, Science, Engineering, Veterinary, Horticulture, Services and Media Studies. All our courses offer students of all ages an alternative route into Third Level education and opportunities to acquire new skills for direct entry into employment. In one year students can attain up to 400 points which can then be used to access many third level courses though the Central Applications Office. Students without Leaving Certificate mathematics will be offered the option of studying a PLC mathematics module to fulfil the entry requirements for Third Level Colleges. Continuous assessment by means of assignments and project work is a feature of all

our courses. This reduces the stress and pressure associated with a single terminal examination and ensures that students who work consistently throughout the year are rewarded. The Department of Education and Skills has invested over €3 million in the College in the past three years and Sligo College of Further Education now has facilities that rank among the very best in the country. A large new extension has been added. The College also has a number of new lecture theatres, a fully equipped hairdressing training salon, a beauty and complementary therapies facility, a fully equipped nursing training facility and an animal grooming room. In addition the College now has six modern computer suites encompassing state of the art technology and can now offer students full catering facilities in its recently refurbished canteen. SCFE is expected to again significantly increase numbers this September and maintain its position as the dominant Further Education College in the Northwest. In these difficult times it is gratifying to see the tremendous strides that Sligo College of Further Education has made over the past few years. It is now recognised as the regional Further Education College for the North West. The College has first class facilities, highly experienced and dedicated staff and is now in a position to continue to play a pivotal role in the continued development of Further Education for counties Donegal, Sligo, Leitrim, Roscommon, Mayo and beyond. We can turn your dreams into reality so why not come and see for yourself what we have on offer at our Open Evening on Tuesday 28th August from 5 to 7 p.m.

Tuesday 28th August 5.00pm – 7pm

Further Education Courses 2012-2013 Beauty Care • Hairdressing Level 5 • Hairdressing with Cosmetic Make-up & Manicure – Level 6 City and Guilds • Complementary Therapies and Massage • Make-Up-Artistry

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Business and Computing • Business Administration/Computer Studies • Business and Legal Studies • Computer Applications and Programming • Tourism Studies and Event Management • Advanced Certificate in Business Level 6 Care and Social Studies • Applied Social Studies • Community Development level 5 • Community Development Level 6 • Childcare and Pre-School Education

• Childcare level 6 • Nursing Studies • Youth Studies

Media Studies • Print Journalism and Photography Design • Architectural Technology • Art and Design • Furniture Design • Interior Design • Creative Design and Textiles Science and Services • Occupational Health and Safety • Veterinary Assistant • Security Studies • Engineering Technology • Horticulture

These courses are 1 and 2 year full-time courses starting in September and are accredited by FETAC, DES, City and Guilds and ITEC. Students can progress from these courses to Higher Education courses in Universities and Institutes of Technology. It is essential for all students who have already applied for courses (excluding hairdressers) to attend at the college on Tuesday 28th August to obtain an interview time for the following week.

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Northwest Express September 13th, 2012

Adult Learning; A second chance Become a Manual Handling Trainer Fetac Level 6 Manual handling Instructor Course Starting in Sligo 25th September

Wage Persons: Part Funding Available Unwaged Persons: At least 3 FREE places available

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Upcoming Training in Sligo and Donegal Courses

Location

Dates

Polish Safepass

Letterkenny

15th Sept

SafePass

Sligo

29th Sept

Manual Handling Instructor

Sligo

Starting 25th Sept

Water Meter Installation

Letterkenny

Starting 27th Sept

Managing Safely in Construction Letterkenny

Starting 28th Sept

Call Caroline at Safetech on 074 9127786 to query or book online on www.safetech.ie

HORT courses at night schools, vocational courses designed to give people a trade or enhance existing skills and attending university courses on a full or part time basis are all forms of adult learning. Adult learning courses usually last between eight weeks and nine months, depending on the nature of the course and the content. For example, a skills course to enhance administration skills will probably last longer than one covering cake decoration. Adult learning courses usually require an individual to attend two to three times a week for one or two hour classes. Adult Learning, further education The classes can be scheduled at any time of day but are most commonly run as evening courses to help people to arrange them around their working patterns or their other commitments, such as caring for children. There may also be two versions of the

same course running simultaneously, one in the day and one in the evening, to give more flexibility & cater for a those with differing schedules. In terms of the course content to be found on adult learning schemes, it varies in relation to the course itself, but the majority of the work and assessment is classroom based with a practical exam or regular exam at the end of the course. However, the typical course content for adult learning varies depending on area of study. In terms of career progression, adult learning courses can considerably enhance your career prospects. A good number of the courses are designed to introduce you to new skills related to your existing career or enhance those that you already have. The ones that can supplement your existing knowledge can enhance your employability for future jobs elsewhere or indeed enhance your position within the company, thus making your promotion prospects more real.

22 High Street, Sligo

Save some Money on

School Books this year The Red Door is a second hand school/college book shop which opens every summer in Sligo. They are situated at the top of High Street They are always looking for books that are in good condition, so if anyone has any old school books drop them in, you might make a few bob!

Buy your Primary and Secondary Books early this year to avoid the September rush, while at the same time dropping in your unwanted books and uniforms for re-sale.

YOUR SCHOOL BOOK LIST With This Voucher Terms and Conditions Apply 1 Voucher Per Customer & Valid Until September 2012

Open Daily 9.30am to 5.30pm

For Further information phone 086-1080903

Student Transport / Weekend Service Donegal / Ballyshannon / Bundoran / Sligo / Roscommon / Carrick / Limerick

For further details Tel: 071-9641059

Student Accommodation Luxury Self Catering Apartments

Luxury Student Accommodation, Guaranteed En-Suite Bedrooms, Broadband Access, Generous Electricity Allowance, Friendly Staff & Security, No Hidden Charges, Each Apartment has 3 bedrooms, you can choose your own Housemates, Minutes walk to IT Sligo & Sligo Town.

The Grove, Management Office, Block 8, The Grove, Clarion Rd, Co.Sligo, P: 071 9144858, E: info@thegrovesligo.ie

Northwest Express September 13th, 2012

FULLY STOCKED ART SHOP TREACY COACHES BALLINA SUMMER SALE All Student daily & weekend services to Sligo All Student weekend services to GALWAY commence on 9 Sept Special Friday Service departing from Sligo IT at 1pm weekly Also, Daily Service to SLIGO - departs Ballina at 7.30am and departs SLIGO IT at 5.15pm Monday to Friday

Enquiries to Tel: 096-22563

A CAREER IN BEAUTY THERAPY

Galway’s Longest Established Beauty College NOW ENROLLING FOR THE FOLLOWING COURSES • Full-time CIDESCO day course, commencing September 26th ‘12 (limited number of places) • Part-time Beauty Therapy, commencing October 1st, 1 day (Monday) or two evening options available (Mon & Tues) • Part-time Holistic Massage, commencing October 2nd, 1 day (Tuesday) or one evening (Tuesday)

• Aromatherapy, Spa Therapy & Reflexology, commencing October 2012, Thursday mornings • Electrolysis commencing October 2012, Thursday afternoons. • ITEC Teacher Training commencing September 10th, 2012.

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Northwest Express September 13th, 2012

BEST OF LUCK TO MAYO IN THE ALL IRELAND FINAL FROM EVERYONE AT

Mill Street, Westport, Co. Mayo

BEST OF LUCK MAYO

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Mayo manager James Horan commiserates with Dublin's Paul Flynn

ITH just over a week to go before Mayo and Donegal clash in a novel All-Ireland decider in Croke Park neutrals everywhere are looking forward to heralding new AllIreland champions on Sunday, 23rd September. Donegal qualified for their first AllIreland SFC final in 20 years with a decisive 0-16 to 1-11 victory over Cork almost three weeks ago. Many would argue they should have won by more. On Sunday week Mayo came out on top after an epic battle with Dublin which saw the Westerners hang on for a three-point victory after a Dublin revival mid-way through the second half. Because of their strong defensive system, and superb ability to break from the back to snatch vital scores with consistent ease, Donegal are installed as firm favourites to take the Sam Maguire trophy. Mayo’s apparent capitulation for a period in the second half against the Dubs left fans nervy during a heart-stopping 15-minute period before they finally emerged victorious. Despite their second half slump, however, Mayo showed their determination by coming good at the end. Also, they had suffered several injuries and key players were sidelined for long periods during the second half.

While the absence of Andy Moran has, on paper at least, weakened this Mayo team their all-round teamwork and support play has served them well in the lead-up to this final. The accurate passing and score-taking of players like Alan Dillon and Kevin McLoughlin, the strong performances of the 6’5’’+ midfielders O’Shea and Moran, and the overlapping abilities of defenders like Higgins, Keegan and Donal Vaughan, have combined to produce a formidable unit this Summer. When you add in the free-taking abilities of Cillian O’Connor and the goal-keeping skills of David Clarke this team cannot be dismissed in the lead-up to this unique en-

counter. Donegal have looked the strongest team in Ireland this year and seem to have all the aces in prime positions. Michael Murphy and Colm McFadden have been in superb form, further assisted by McBrearty and the fast-running Mark McHugh. The players’ work-rate, movement and support play has been phenomenal. Their system has been analysed, criticised as wholly defensive by many and praised by others, particularly this year. The strategy is to stop opposing forwards by arranging a mass defence and breaking at speed to notch up scores. Here, defenders like Frank McGlynn, Anthony Thompson and Karl Lacey have been superb, moving upfield at speed after thwarting opponents’ attacks. As we go to press (Wednesday) Mayo are showing a clean bill of health, with “injured” players almost fully recovered after the gruelling Dublin clash . . . and players like Lee Keegan, Enda Varley and McLoughlin up and ready for the fray again. The hype is beginning to build in both counties, particularly in Donegal. Mayo have learned from past experiences in this regard and it is only now the excitement of expectation is beginning to surface. After all, 61 years is a long time to wait for All-Ireland success . . . and Sunday week may finally bring an end to the agony of defeat for the Green and Red.

Dublin's Kevin McManamon attempts a shot on goal during the final moments of the match

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Northwest Express September 13th, 2012

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Seamus O'Shea and Aidan O'Shea were jubilant at the full-time whistle

Dublin's Bernard Brogan (r) was watched closely all day by Kevin Keane of Mayo

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Dublin's Paul Flynn gets his shot away despite the best efforts of Lee Keegan

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Best wishes to Mayo from all at

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Mayo's Keith Higgins is determined to prevent Diarmuid Connolly from progressing.

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Northwest Express September 13th, 2012

LUCK MAYO

23 Best Wishes To Mayo In The All Ireland Final From All At

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Mayo goalkeeper David Clarke makes a crucial save from Bernard Brogan in the closing minutes of the game

Mayo's Barry Moran rises above team-mate Jason Gibbons and Craig Dias of Dublin

Contact Seamus on 096‐22666 Mobile: 086‐8181030 Email: wfs@iol.ie

Best wishes to The Mayo team in the Semi Final from all at Mayo's Aidan O'Shea (l) and Denis Bastick of Dublin wrestle for possession as Eamon Fennell (r) & Barry Moran look on.

Sligo Road, Ballina, Co. Mayo. Tel: 086-3106632

• Par 3 Golf Course • Driving Range (clubs available) • Indoor Mini Golf • Amusement Arcade • Go-Karting • Budget Accomodation Tel: 096-76838 Just 5 mins from Ballina Pick-up and Drop offs from Alan Freeman gets to grips with Dublin goalkeeper Stephen Cluxton

Best Wishes To Mayo In The All Ireland Final From All At

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NEW & USED CAR SALES SERVICE REPAIRS RECOVERY Bunghamstown, Belmullet, Co. Mayo - 097 82082 Kevin Barry Street, Ballina, Co. Mayo - 096 70777 Kevin: 086-2425790 • Ciaran: 086-8870776

Dublin's Ger Brennan is put under pressure by Richie Feeney

Best Wishes To Mayo In The All Ireland Final From All At

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Concrete Pumped, Placed & Finished Domestic & Industrial Floors / Rafts / Tanks Laser Screeding Best wishes to the Mayo team from all at Abrodella Concrete

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Northwest Express September 13th, 2012 Northwest Express September 13th, 2012

Wishes the Mayo Team the best of luck in the All Ireland Final

BEST OF LUCK MAYO

Best wishes to the Mayo GAA team from all at

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Manufacturers and Suppliers of an Extensive Range of Quality Plaster Mouldings Middle Mace, Claremorris, County Mayo Phone: 094-9388208; Mobile: 087-2503184 Best wishes to The Mayo team in the All Ireland Final from all at

Daily Service to SLIGO departs Ballina at 7.30 am and departs SLIGO IT at 5.15pm Monday to Friday

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Best wishes to The Mayo team in the All Ireland Final from all at

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The Mayo squad that beat Down in Croke Park, on August 4th. Picture Ray Macmanus / Sportsfile

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Morgan

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Best wishes to The Mayo team in the All Ireland Final from all at

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