Northwest Express February 23rd 2012

23 February 2012 Issue 4 - Volume 13

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PAGE 6 6 PAGE

Petrol heading for €2 per litre Former President opens Ballina SVP’s new Home Management Centre

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Former president Mary Robinson cuts the tape to officially open Ballina St Vincent de Paul's refurbished Home Management Centre. Included at the tape cutting were St Vincent de Paul co-ordinators Gemma O'Malley and Anne Keane, with local society members, participants and Home Management tutors, Breege Needham, Breda Cloney and Mary Lowry.

Full story on Page 7. Picture Henry Wills

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OTORISTS travelling through western counties in recent weeks will have noticed the steady increases in petrol and diesel prices. Nationally, the cost of petrol has smashed through the €1.60 a litre mark and is heading towards €1.70 in some stations -- with fears that the €2 barrier will soon be breached.

In some stations in Mayo where prices are €1.51 for diesel and €1.57 for petrol retailers will contend there are making little or no profit at this level. In theory it is almost a loss leader in order to maintain the core business. Prices are slightly higher in Sligo, Roscommon and Galway. Hardpressed motorists are advised to shop around to bag better bargains as fears mount that costs will continue to rocket.

Hauliers operating on the continent are buying diesel there before returning to Ireland as it is significantly cheaper. The increase comes as provisional figures show the tax take from petrol last year totalled €1.51bn -- up from €1.47bn in 2006. In addition the IRHA is currently lobbying the Government strongly for some solution to the green diesel issue, while seeking an essential user fuel rebate for licensed, tax compliant road haulage operators.

A Northwest Express survey of petrol prices in the west has found that charges can waver from as high as 160.9c a litre in most petrol stations in Sligo and Roscommon, to under 157c in other parts of the West. Continued on Page 2

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Petrol heading for €2 per litre continued from front page

Prices were hiked in the recent budget and consumers also face the prospect of further increases as tensions mount in the Middle East over Iran's nuclear ambitions.

Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad last week stopped supplies of oil to the UK and France, and has threatened to extend the boycott to other EU countries. The price of crude oil yesterday reached its highest level since June, jumping to $121.15 (€91.4) a barrel.

Against this background, the AA has voiced fears the price hikes will continue.

"We are literally getting phone calls from motorists every day of the week complaining bitterly and genuinely very worried about the effects it's having on their lifestyle," said AA spokesman Conor Faulkner.

In Mayo one of the highest prices for petrol was in the Topaz garage in Swinford, where unleaded was being sold earlier this week for 160.9c a litre, and diesel for 156.9. By contrast further along the road the Topaz station on the Foxford rd in Ballina was charging 155.9c for unleaded, and 153.9c for diesel.

Commuters travelling in Sligo could buy petrol at the Gulf Oil service station in Collooney for 160.9c a litre. In fact most stations in Sligo are selling unleaded for 160.9 with the exception of Excol on the Mail coach road where one can buy unleaded for 158.9. Sligo Fuels at the Quays in Sligo are still the cheapest around where unleaded is being sold for 157.9 a

litre or 153.9 for diesel. Darragh, manager of Sligo Fuels said that it was hard to know where it was going to end. “People with two cars are now making do with the one and more and more people are making those short journeys by bicycle or on foot to save unnecesary use of the car.

It's obvious that it pays to shop around.

AA Ireland said there has been five separate tax increases on petrol and diesel since the Budget of October 2008, adding about 22c per litre to the retail price.

Meanwhile, the provisional figures for the

tax-take on diesel last year was €1.24bn, up from €1.1bn in 2006.

In Dublin petrol is now retailing at a price of €1.69 per litre.

The carbon charge and excise amounts to just under 59c, meaning the total tax take amounts to 53.5pc of the retail price.

For petrol charged at a retail price of €1.59 per litre, the VAT at 23pc would be just under 30c. Carbon tax and excise duty come in at under 59c per litre, meaning the total tax would be just under 89c per litre.

North Connaught College offers a wide range of courses

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NORTH Connaught College situated on the Sligo Road in Tubbercurry provides education and training programmes of the highest quality. They offer adults of all ages the opportunity to take advantage of professional courses, mostly one year, leading to qualifications which are nationally accredited, and which are delivered by experienced staff in a caring and supportive atmosphere. Students receive encouragement and guidance to progress to degree programmes, maybe to start their own business or to pursue employment opportunities with their new qualifications.

New this year was an advanced Certificate in Security Management and Administration at FETAC level 6, which appealed to those who have already achieved level 5 qualifications in security studies and were interested in advancing their career at management level.

Other courses range from the very popular Beauty Therapy 2 year course to nursing studies, childcare and childcare supervision, business and advanced ad-

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Beauty Therapy students are able to qualify in three examination boards including the prestigious Swiss awarding body CISESCO and the college’s facilities and training have been warmly praised.

So if you are a school leaver this year, or an adult considering returning to education or indeed just curious about what education opportunities are available locally visit their web site www.northconnaugthcollege.net or phone the college on 0719185035.

Come along to the OPEN EVENING on Wednesday 14th March from 4 to 7pm. Meet the tutors, see the facilities and get an opportunity to take part in various demonstrations.

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regionalnews

Sligo experience was major boost for Cook

FORMER Sligo Rovers boss Paul Cook says he had to come to Ireland if he had any chance of fulfilling his managerial dream and now his five year spell at Sligo has made him better equipped as a manager.

Meanwhile the hunt for his successor at the Showgrounds continues with names like colourful

Monaghan boss, Roddy Collins in the mix.

Cook, quoted in the Lancashire Telegraph, regrets leaving Accrington Stanley as a coach in 2006 and taking up a managerial role with Sourthport, where he lasted just seven months before he was forced to leave.

“Southport wasn’t difficult, it was just a disaster!” he told the paper.

“It was mission impossible. Southport is a good football club and I wish them every success but it was a bad move for me, I should never have taken the job. I was young, I was inexperienced and I thought I could change the world.

“When you’ve been sacked at a club after a few months, the chances of you getting another job in England are nil, it’s that simple.

“Basically you’ve been so tarnished by that club that you don’t know what you’re doing and you’re not good enough to manage, so no-one is going to give you another job.

“So I didn’t really have another choice other than to go to Ireland and try to prove that I could manage. I like to think with what I’ve done for Sligo Rovers over five years has been testament that I can manage, I do know what I’m doing and with the right backing we can have success.

“Four-and-a-half or five years later I’m a little bit more experienced, I’ve got a better knowledge of management and I’d like to think I’m a better manager. “For Accrington to come after me after so many quality applicants is a great pat on the back for me. But that’s gone, what you’ve done at previous clubs doesn’t really count because that period of your life is over.”

McSharry says Taoiseach is looking after his own constituency THE decentralisation issue has come to life again in the north-west following recent announcements.

Sligo-North Leitrim Senator Marc Mac Sharry has described as disgraceful the Fine Gael/Labour Government’s decision to close the decentralised office of the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, Tubbercurry, County Sligo and relocate it to Ballina, County Mayo.

“Under this plan the leasing arrangements in Tubbercurry will be terminated, short-terms lease will be sought and staff will be encouraged to agree to relocate to Ballina. There are many people who will quite rightly be asking why they are being moved out of Sligo and into the Taoiseach’s own constituency when they are more than happy to work where they are.

The Department of Public Expenditure says ‘it is proposed to retain some staff in situ in the short term, under flexible leasing arrangements, with the aim of maximising the number of staff moving to Ballina over time, and the redeployment of the remaining staff to other civil and public service employers in the general vicinity being facilitated through existing redeployment mechanisms.’

Senator Mac Sharry said: “This is another example of the lack of priority

being shown to Sligo by this government. It is now one year on since Fine Gael made one of its most cynical election promises to restore cancer services to Sligo General Hospital with no in- Marc Mac Sharry tention of delivering on it. John Perry even stated publicly that he would resign from Fine Gael is this was not done but has since abandoned his commitments.”

“Minister Perry has said it was a ‘mistake’ to make the promise on surgical cancer services in Sligo. But the Ministers commitment wasn’t a slip of the tongue. It was deliberate and politically motivated and he should apologise for it. Fine Gael and Labour have again failed the people of Sligo with the announcement of the closure of the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs’ office in Tubbercurry and move it into the Taoiseach’s constituency in Ballina.This decision should be immediately reversed and I am calling on FG and Labour’s TD and Senators to ensure that it is.”

Childcare Emergency Plan launched in Galway

GALWAY has taken the lead in creating Ireland's first Critical Incident Plan for emergencies in childcare services.

The initiative is funded by the Department of Children and Youth Affairs and provides an emergency planning and response system designed for childcare providers.

The toolkit addresses situations including extreme weather conditions, chemical spills or medical emergencies and is to be rolled out nationwide.

The plan, led by Galway City and County Childcare Committee, was officially launched by Mary McLoughlin, Principal Officer at the Department of Children and Youth Affairs at the Clayton Hotel last Saturday.

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Castlebar hosts innovative Legal Education Event

At the Legal Education event in Castlebar last week: l-r Lianne Murphy (PILA), Michael Smyth ( FG Phelan & Co.Solicitors), Michelle Rooney (MCP), Bernadette Byrne (MCP), Maria McHale (MCP) and Maeve Regan (PILA).

MAYO Community Platform (MCP), working in partnership with Public Interest Law Alliance (PILA), hosted an innovative free Legal Education Event on Wednesday, 15th of February in Castlebar, Co. Mayo. The event was organised to build the capacity of organisations working with people experiencing poverty and social exclusion to use the legal system.

The event was attended by representatives from NGOs, community and voluntary groups and the statutory sector.

The central inputs on the day were provided by Michael Smyth, Solicitor with FG Phelan & Co Solicitors, who delivered a presentation on mental health

law for the morning session. Michael spoke about the Mental Health Act 2001 and also took an in depth look at capacity and consent issues. Thomas J Walsh, Solicitor with Thomas J Walsh solicitors, delivered a presentation on family law for the afternoon session.Thomas spoke in great detail about the areas of access, custody and maintenance issues as well as domestic violence legislation, including the law around protection and barring orders.

Lianne Murphy from the Public Interest Law Alliance said: "We are delighted to be able to host this Legal Education Event in partnership with the Mayo Community Platform in Co. Mayo. It is

important to raise awareness around the areas of mental health law and family law, and to increase individuals' and organisations' capacity and knowledge which I believe we have achieved here today. I would like to acknowledge the two solicitors who contributed their knowledge and time pro bono, which was crucial to the success of the event".

Michelle Rooney from the Mayo Community Platform said: "The day was a huge success and extremely informative. It was great to see such a large turnout and we are confident that those who took part were able to take valuable learning away with them.The Mayo Community Platform is committed to building on the success of this event, and continuing to work collaboratively to support those affected by poverty and social exclusion." Mayo Community Platform is a dynamic network of community development organisations which is committed to working collectively to address issues of poverty and inequality in Mayo.The platform seeks to have a critical voice on local and regional decision-making structures with responsibility for equality, social inclusion and community development.

PILA is a project of FLAC - Free Legal Advice Centres. It operates a pro bono referral scheme that matches expertise in the legal profession with specific legal needs in NGOs and community organisations. Through the scheme it aims to increase the capacity of organisations to use law in the public interest through legal education, law reform and litigation.

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Former President opens Ballina SVP’s new Home Management Centre

Mary Robinson pictured with Anne Keane and Gemma O'Malley and Mayo North East Leader 's Rita Hopkins and Gerry Mulherin.

Picture Henry Wills

Mary Robinson, the former president is pictured in the state-of-the- art new kitchen with partipants and Home Management tutors, Breege Needhan Mary Lowrey and Breda Cloney. Picture Henry Wills

FORMER President of Ireland Mary Robinson cut the ribbon on Ballina SVP’s newly refurbished home management centre on Friday 17th February. Classes have being ongoing there for the past 15 years to teach participants cookery, nutrition and budget-

ing skills. It was decided to refurbish the centre in order for students to have a more “hands on” role and to have a better working environment.

Funding for this project partly came from SVP’s charity shop proceeds and from Mayo North East Leader pro-

gramme to whom SVP is grateful. Following the opening Mrs.Robinson attended the Ballina Network Group’s Spring meeting – a meeting which is organised by SVP and is attended by voluntary and statutory bodies in the loosely termed “caring sector”

Former president Mary Robinson cuts the tape to officially open Ballina St Vincent de Paul's refurbished Home Management Centre.

Included at the tape cutting were St Vincent de Paul co-ordinators Gemma O'Malley and Anne Keane, with local society members, participants and Home Management tutors, Breege Needham, Breda Cloney and Mary Lowrey. Picture Henry Wills

localnews

Ballina gets ready for bumper Westfest line-up

Do You Have any news or photos for us?

Email them into us at

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TRADITIONAL CRAFTSMEN & STONE CARVERS IN MAYO SINCE 1909

Don’t limit yourself to showroom models

Connacht Captin and Irish rugby international Gavin Duffy (left) pictured with Michelle Mulherin,T.D., Dara Calleary,T.D., and Olwyn Murray, singer, at the launch of Westfest in Hotel Ballina last week.

ALL roads west will lead to Ballina at the height of Summer 2012 when top performers will take to the stage for Westfest. An additional day has been added to cater for younger music fans and the town is ideally situated for bus and rail transportation to this top musical event which takes place from June 29th to July 1st.

Scottish band The Proclaimers will be among the headline acts at Ballina’s Showgrounds. The band has enjoyed several chart successes in the UK and around Europe with their version of (I’m Gonna Be) 500 Miles among their best known hits.

It is understood that the organisers are in negotiations with a number of prominent acts and that announcements in relation to the bill line-up will be made at regular intervals over the coming weeks.

The build-up to the event commenced with an excellent evening of live music at a cere-

mony to mark the official launch of the promotion in Hotel Ballina last Saturday night.The featured guest was Jamie Lawson who received a warm welcome from the appreciative audience.

There was a top-class performance from Foxford trad and folk band The Craic Away Jacks as well as from the talented RnBs from East Mayo with special guest, You’re A Star finalist, Olwyn Murray from Ballyhaunis. The event was free of charge and open to all the public.

After a tremendously successful inaugural year Westfest is expected to be bigger and better this year and is receiving strong support from the local Chamber of Commerce and other interests. It should prove a major boost for the town this Summer.

Those interested in finding out about accommodation and amenities in Ballina should check out www.discoverireland.com.

Graphic Designer WANTED Must be fluent in Graphic Design and Page Layout An Understanding of QuarkXpress, Photoshop, Illustrator, Adobe PDF and Mac OSX is essential.

• Candiate must be eager to learn and enthusiastic.

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• Industry experience preferred but not essential Send your CV and Covering Letter with examples of work to steve@theexpress.ie Or Call Stephen on 085-7725560

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Families save €500 as health insurers cover children free FAMILIES will be able to save almost €500 a year in private health insurance after all three providers offered to cover children for free for a year.

Health insurers Aviva and Quinn have responded to the VHI by offering the same deal on children, in a desperate attempt to stop people giving up cover.

Healthcare experts said the move would go some way to countering the multiple price hikes being imposed by all three private medical insurers.

Around 6,000 people a month are giving up health insurance.

The move to try to attract families comes at a time of the year when around 850,000 people renew their cover.

VHI kicked off the move. The state-owned insurer is offering free cover for children under the age of 18 on the One Plus and Parents & Kids plans for a year.

A family with two children will save €460 a year on the Parents & Kids plan and €460 on the One Plus Plan, according to Dermot Goode of healthinsurancesavings.ie.

However, the catch with VHI is that the offers only apply to those renewing, or switching to the VHI, between this month and March 16.

Mr Goode said VHI does not allow its customers to break out of or cancel their policies inside the 12-month period of the contract.

Aviva and Quinn do allow customers to change their renewal dates, he said.

Quinn is offering free cover for children and students on its Essential Select plan. This will save a family with two adults and two children

€460 over a year.The offer runs until the bank holiday on March 19.

Aviva has launched a new plan called Family Value, with children under the age of 18 insured for free.

Mr Goode said it was expected that the offer would remain open until Friday, March 16.

Mr Goode said families should make sure that the plans with the free cover for children meet their needs.

"They should note that each of these plans have excesses in private hospitals and in some cases, these excesses may exceed the savings made," he said.

An excess is the amount of money you have to pay yourself before you get a payout on a claim.

VHI Healthcare said two last month that its prices were set to rise by up to 12.5pc next month. It is the third rise from the Stateowned insurer in just over a year, and follows a similar number of rises from rivals Aviva and Quinn.

Next month's rises will see families that have the VHI Parents & Kids plan having to shell out an additional €280 for cover.

Since January 2011 the cost of this plan for a family of two adults and two children has shot up by more than €600.

However, before the free cover for children, it was open to families to escape the hikes from all three insurers by opting for cheaper corporate plans that offer similar benefits.

Families also save by opting to drop down to cheaper plans or by switching providers, Mr Goode said.

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Spring 2012 Training Schedule Sligo County Enterprise Board is offering a limited number of positions on the following programmes/workshops as part of its Spring Training schedule.

• Start your Own Business Programme 2 - February 29 th to April 4th, 6 x 3 hour evening sessions, 1 session per week, 6.00pm-9.00pm.

• Facebook for Business – Beginners Workshop - February 28th, 10.00am-5.00pm.

• Costing & Pricing for your Business Workshop – March 1st, 9.30am-4.30pm.

• Using LinkedIn to benefit your Business Workshop – March 6th, 10.00am -1.00pm.

• Making your Website work harder for your Business Workshop- March 13th, 10.00am – 5.00pm.

• Facebook for Business – Advanced Workshop.-March 20th, 10.00am-5.00pm.

• Financial Management & Taxation for your Business Programme 3 x 0.5 days, March 22nd, March 29 th, April 5 th, 9.30am-1.30pm.

For further info. & venue details, contact Sligo County Enterprise Board at 071 9144779 or visit: http://www.sligoenterprise.ie/Book-Training-Online/Spring-Training-Programme to reserve your place.

SALES EXECUTIVE REQUIRED To service existing and new customers. Good telephone manner is essential and ability to work hard and on own initiative. Can be based in either Sligo or Ballina

Please apply with CV to seamus@theexpress.ie or Call 085-2498067

regionalnews People living in fear of burglaries ALL over the West and north-west break-ins and burglaries are become daily and nightly occurrances.

In Ballymote and Kiltimagh diggers have been stolen in recent weeks and police in Ballymote and Swinford are seeking information. Ironically, in the Ballymote case, a number of motorists were actually delayed when a lorry with extensive lighting took the digger from a field at Templehouse Road.

A meeting in Ballaghaderreen on Monday night heard that people in the town are living in fear daily following months of being terrorized. On Sunday night week, four houses in the Abbeyfield estate were burgled, the latest in a spate of burglaries in the area. The vacant houses were broken into and copper cylinders and piping stolen.

The public meeting, held in Durkin’s Hotel and attended by a large crowd, discussed the crime epidemic, which is now the cause of great concern in the town. Michael Scally, who owns one of the houses burgled, said that he was furious that these criminals were continually reoffending. “We are living in fear each day and being terrorised by

these criminals who have no heed on law and order. It’s gotten to the stage where they go to prison and as soon as they come out they are causing havoc again.They will end up forcing us to take the law into our own hands.

We will not take this anymore,” he said.

Gardai in Ballymote were last week seeking public assistance in locating a digger stolen from just outside Ballymote. The caterpillar 315 yellow digger was parked in a field on the Templehouse Road about a mile from the town and it was stolen at about 6.30 this morning. A number of motorists were actually delayed along the Templehouse Road as a lorry with extensive lighting took the machine out of the field The digger was located early this week north of the border.

In a separate incident a caterpillar bulldozer was taken from Lisduff, Kiltimagh earlier this month.The incident happened in the early hours of Wednesday (Feb 8) when a blue tractor with a low loader was seen in the Lisduff area on that morning. Anyone with any information is asked to contact Swinford or any garda station.

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Austerity Protest date pushed back as momentum grows

GROUPS from the north west will be joining thousands of others in what now promises to be a massive protest march against austerity on the capital planned for Wednesday, 29th February. Such as been the interest expressed in the protest, the organizers were forced to cancel plans for the event originally planned for this Wednesday, 22nd.

According to Donegal Action Against Austerity, the protest which was originally organised to coincide with a blockade of the capital by the Road Haulage Association, has taken on a life of its own, and the group have been inundated with messages of support, and pledges from groups country wide.

“We have had no option but to postpone the protest until the 29th, as so many people want to be part of what we have planned. However this has meant that we have to co-ordinate with different groups around the country, who are all in the same frame of mind as ourselves, and we want to ensure that this is done right,” said John McLaughlin, one of the organisers, from Donegal Action Against Austerity. “While the hauliers have their own agenda, we wanted to make this about more than one group, about the people who are hurting more than anything, so this is something that people can really support and get involved in.

Focus groups and protestors from counties including Donegal, Galway, Roscommon, in addition to Limerick, Cork and Dublin, are joining in with the protest, and while no confirmation has been forthcoming about the hauliers’ blockade of the capital, the groups are adamant that they will make the government listen, with or without the hauliers.

PRO for the group, Ryan Stewart said, “There is a real willingness from people to be part of some-

thing here.We have held meetings in towns and villages around Donegal, and the response has been tremendous, with hundreds attending each meeting, thousands in total. There are also people coming out to voice their opinion, who may not have had the courage to do so before.With the number of cuts, levies and taxes being imposed, people really have had enough, and they just want to do something about it. The forgotten county wants to give the government something to remember this time.”

Páraic Ó Conghaola, from Connemara, who led a protest of over 5000 to the Dail only a month ago, added: “There is strength in numbers, and we have the numbers. We must stand together if we are to win and show this Government that the blood of the people of rural Ireland is boiling, and we will not stop until we get justice and equality for all.”

“Come to Dublin and stand proudly with your fellow Irish people and show them we will not lie down. County by county, people are committing to this, and we have to make a stand. Whatever your cause may be, get out and get your voice heard.”

The groups have announced that the Spire on O’Connell Street will be the rally point from 12 noon, on the 29th February, and that a march to the Dail will leave from 1:30pm. Buses are being organised to bring people to and from the capital, and anyone wishing to travel is being asked to contact the group by email or text. They are asked to text their name and town to 086 3383 090 to book a spot on a coach.

For more information, email: donegalprotests@gmail.com. Outside of Donegal, please email mynativeireland@gmail.com

Mayo Psychiatric Nurses numbers halved IT has been described as a crisis for mental health patients in Mayo. The reduction by 112 in the number of psychiatric nurses in Mayo in just two years has created serious concerns about the ongoing service in the county.

In just 24 months the number of psychiatric nurses has fallen from 247 to 137.The drop is a combination of the moratorium on recruitment and the Government’s early retirement scheme. According to SIPTU’s Nursing Sector President Padraig Heverin: “because there’s generally an older age profile there’s a significantly higher proportion of nurses retiring in Mayo and the West generally than in more urbanised parts of the country”.

Recently, it was announced that up to 400 psychiatric would be going under the Government’s early retirement scheme with Mayo set to potentially lose

up to an additional 15 nurses in 2012.

Mr. Heverin, who is also a psychiatric nurse at St. Mary’s Hospital, Castlebar, said that while a few years ago nurses were traditionally working past the retirement age of 55, until 57 or 60, all are now opting to go at 55 which is leaving services with massively inadequate resources. He was concerned that wards that had six nurses were now struggling to operate with three. “It will come to a point when we cannot do any more. At times there have been wards and units with nobody in them.We’ll have to close wards eventually because it’s impossible to continue.”

Mr. Heverin was also highly critical of the delay in the HSE West budget allocation which he said he enquired about last November. I don’t think it’s unreasonable to expect to know what the figures are for 2012.

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Thousands ditch pay TV to save money ahead of digital deadline T

HOUSANDS of householders are ditching their TV subscriptions and moving to free services that can save them hundreds of euros each year.

And industry experts predict the move away from pricey subscriptions will accelerate in advance of the switch from an analogue to digital-only television service in October. They said many consumers were considering if they could afford the yearly pricetag of €300 to €950 for TV services when there were high-quality alternatives available for free.

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Figures obtained by a national paper show that more than 44,000 homes have moved to free TV services in the last two years. Industry sources indicate that this has accelerated since RTE announced it would move to the Saorview digital-only service this October.

TV audience measurement body TAM Ireland said the number of Irish homes with Freesat -- a free satellite-based service offering most of the major UK channels -- as their primary source of TV reception stood at 170,000 just before Christmas.

The number had increased from 124,000 in early 2010.

"As people are sizing up their options in the build-up to the official analogue switchoff in October this year it is expected to grow further," TAM Ireland said.

Sales of Saorview-approved digital TVs -which can receive TV3 and RTE's digital stations -- exceeded 67,000 in 2011, while another 8,000 consumers purchased Saorview approved set-top boxes to receive Irish channels on existing TVs. Official figures from cable-television provider UPC, meanwhile, show it lost 16,600 TV subscribers in Ireland in the first nine months of 2011, bringing their total down to 473,300.

A UPC spokeswoman said the loss of TV

subscribers was down to competition in the market and emigration, with some customers switching to free services given the tough economic climate.

Sky does not release figures for its Irish subscriber base, but figures from research firm AC Nielsen show it has 675,000 TV customers here -- up from 637,000 a year ago.

Mayo woman Nancy Horan moved from UPC to a freeview satellite/aerial service last month The new equipment and installation cost her around €300 and the picture quality and range of channels is superb.

"It will pay for itself within two and a half years and I will never have to pay another TV bill again. I needed to look at my costs when I retired, and I couldn't be happier with this service," she said.The availability of free highdefinition sports coverage on RTE 2 HD on Saorview is proving a big incentive to switch as this channel is not available on any subscription service, said Tony Moore, owner of Satellite.ie which installs satellites and aerials along the east coast.

Michael Hickey, of freesat.ie, said that many elderly people paying €300 a year for a piped TV service were switching to a free service, as were many families who liked their Sky Sports but couldn't afford it any more because they'd lost their jobs.

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IT Sligo’s ambition to achieve a Technological University for BMW region – Scott

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ommenting on the official initiation of Reform of Irish Higher Education by the Higher Education Authority this week, President of IT Sligo, Professor Terri Scott, said that it is the ambition of IT Sligo to be part of a Technological University in the Border Midlands and Western Region.

“The Higher Education Authority is now starting to implement the National Strategy for Higher Education which was published at the start of last year,” Professor Scott explained.

“A new model of higher education is planned for Ireland, which will include a more coherent, complementary system of higher education.This will require greater collaboration and clustering amongst institutions to bring about greater efficiencies.”

Part of the model proposed is the establishment of a small number of Technological Universities.

President Scott and Senior Management at IT Sligo have had detailed discussions with other Institutes of Technologies in the BMW region (AIT, GMIT, LyIT, and DkIT) going back some months now, and it is the ambition of

the five Institutes to achieve Technological University status for the region.

“Each higher education institutions will initially become part of a cluster, the makeup of which has yet to be finalised. This clustering arrangement will mean enhanced cooperation, but each Higher Education Institution will retain its autonomy,” Professor Scott explained.

“Ultimately a small number of Institutes of Technology who, when teamed together, meet required criteria in areas such as research output and student levels, will be redesignated Technological Universities. We want to be part of a grouping that achieves that for the BMW region.

“The provision and access to top quality higher education is essential to deliver investment, enterprise creation and regional development.

Our ambition to be part of a Technological University is grounded on a track record of achievement in supporting industry and the professions for the past 40 years. To build on our strengths, the time has come for us to form strategic alliances to benefit Sligo and the wider region,” she concluded.

O A C e h t f o e c i t s l Kel l y e u a j h c a n R i y b T he … y a d o t Sy s tem er at just seventeen years old” and “Forced to commit to one specific careg for life” are justa a selection of “Choose carefully, for you are choosin of numerous national newspapers headlines screaming from the front page is the annual completion of the CAO in recent weeks. The reason? Why, it y that results in such chaotic and entr form, necessary to ensure college across the country. panicked scenes in Secondary Schools d as sensationalised and hyperbolic cise Such headlines are all too often criti ink’ run rife throughout the counas mutterings of ‘a paper never refuses ent with a recent first-hand experitry. However as a first year college studr. At the tender age of seventeen ence of the CAO episode, I beg to diffe em which consistently demands a years old surely such a narrowing syst pect for even the most hardy of secdecisive verdict, is a frightening pros erience. exp ond level students? Such was my my childhood dream of becoming a As I was always determined to pursue at a definite advantage over the less was capable Primary School Teacher I friend spent weeks agonising over decisive of my counterparts. One such profession of Human Nutritionist, the the choice of a medicine career or to attempt the Nutrition pathway; she having eventually made the decision on the required date. This was not to hesitantly submitted her CAO form ng failed to secure sufficient CAO points for her first conclude successfully though as havi which was in fact, Speech Therapy, as opposed to her initial choice, on being offered her second, accept due to her failure to complete the challenging addidoctoring desires she was unable to entry into such a profession. tional H-Pat assessment required forct of the injustice of this system; admittedly no such system The above story highlights one aspe nation’s youth population. However on reflection it apwill satisfy one hundred percent of any introduced various other application processes for third pears that several other countries have

level education which offer applicants a much wider range of course, whilst all the time allowing for the characteristic indecisiveness of the teenage population of society today. In America for example the system offers students the opportunity to try a variety of subjects and even courses in their initial year, before they are then required to make a better- informed decision regarding their future. Similarly in England, applicants generally choose between two and four academic students in their University experience initially before deciding which they want to progress in later college years.

Many of our Governmental Educational Experts insist that the CAO is the most suitable system, given the impressive choice of career options available in Ireland today. I openly agree that for the 32% of Irish Leaving certificate students who, in a recent survey claimed to be definite about their career plans, the CAO system is an appropriate effort at monitoring college admittance. However, surely the other 68% of our current Leaving Cert students deserve support and assistance in the form of a negogiatable and personal college admissions system? How can one justify that a system that satisfactorily serves just one third of the target audience is the “best one in light of our country’s current situation”, in the words of a defiant nation leader in recent weeks.

The current CAO system is supported with the widely held belief that if you are not suited to your initial choice you have the liberty of changing to a more suited course, following the completion of one year. However in my experience, it is rarely so simple, for many the loss of the necessary grant makes it an impossible transition, for others the loss of previously held scholarships, on failing to complete their initial course makes this equally unrealistic. For this reason, the choice of many seventeen to nineteen year olds’ as they attempt to settle into the final few months of their schooling experience, haunted by thoughts of the approaching Leaving Cert, acts as one of the most influential in their lives. This is an element of the system which I believe to be particularly harsh and one which must be addressed without delay by the officials of our country today.

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Woodie’s DIY and Crown Paints Sponsor new TV3 Series ‘Neville’s Doorstep Challenge’ Win a Free Room Makeover for €1000

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Pictured at the launch of ‘Neville’s Doorstep Challenge’ in Woodie’s DIY are Padraic Timlin Managing Director of Crown Paints, Ray Colman CEO of Woodie’s DIY and Interior Designer Neville Knott.

eville Knott, Ireland’s best known interior designer is taking to the streets of Ireland in TV3’s brand new series ‘Neville’s Doorstep Challenge’ in association with Woodie’s DIY & Garden Centres and Crown Paints.

Aiming to transform the nation’s tired rooms and give them the wow factor, Neville will be knocking on homes around the country to see if yours is the house that gets the Neville treatment! This is a once in a lifetime chance to have a top rate makeover in one of your rooms – and all for free.The only catch is - you need to be at home as he only knocks once! ‘Neville’s Doorstep Challenge’ is the interior show for the times we live in. Great design tips on a budget, interior inspiration and a whole lot of fun.

Ray Colman CEO of Woodie’s DIY said that “Woodie’s are delighted to be involved with Neville’s Doorstep Challenge. The program format is certainly reflective of the way people are tackling DIY in the current economic climate.The program will demonstrate how to makeover a room on a very tight budget and inspire them to spruce up a tired looking room without the big expense. Woodie’s are delighted to support this home grown production which we believe will strike the right cord with the viewer.”Speaking about the show, Padraic Timlin, Managing Director, Crown Paints said, “We’ve worked with Neville as our colour consultant for a number of years now so we’re delighted to be involved.We know he’s the perfect person to transform a room and we’re looking forward to seeing the results!”

Very soon Neville will be knocking on doors all over Ireland. If you have a room that is in need of a makeover and you would like Neville to call to your house, apply now but be quick as the closing date is February 29th.

Go to tv3.ie/doorstep to apply

Padraic Timlin Managing Director of Crown Paints, Interior Designer Neville Knott and Ray Colman CEO of Woodie’s DIY.

AA Roadwatch announcing that the AA now rescues homes as well as cars

Pictured Above: Home Emergency Response launched, Arwen Foley, AA Roadwatch pictured announcing that the AA now rescues homes as well as cars.

Multi Award winning flute player - Michael McGoldrick (Irish roots stem from Castlebar)

Pictured bottom left: AA Home Emergency Response launched. Arwen Foley, AA Roadwatch with AA Patrol engineer VJ Gangart pictured at announcement that the AA now rescues homes as well as cars

Donal Maguire Top Left: Arwen Foley, AA Roadwatch pictured with Brendan Nevin, AA Ireland CEO announcing that the AA now rescues homes as well as cars. Pic: Mac Innes Photography. For Details contact:

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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.

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Barrett-Browning letters go online

THE love letters of 19th century poets Elizabeth Barrett and Robert Browning are going online.

Wellesley College and Baylor University in Texas have teamed up to digitise the 573 letters exchanged between the couple in 1845 and 1846.

The letters capture their courtship and all the way through their forbidden marriage.

The first letter, sent by Browning in January 1845 begins: "I love your verses with all my heart, dear Miss Barrett."

Although transcriptions of their correspondence have been published in the past, the hand-written letters could only be seen at Wellesley College where the collection has been kept since 1930.

But from Valentine's Day, the famous love letters will become available online, where readers can see the creased paper, fading ink, quill pen crossings-out and even the envelopes the two poets used.

The letters can be seen at www.wellesley.edu/browning.

BAE hails battery breakthrough Scientists at BAE Systems has claimed to have developed an alternative to standard batteries which could lighten the load of soldiers' rucksacks.

The so-called structural batteries could reduce the weight carried by troops as electrical energy is stored within the physical structure of equipment, instead of in traditional batteries.

The manufacturer has said successful demonstrations of the technology have been completed in a torch and a drone, highlighting its potential use in consumer and military devices.

The Ministry of Defence is understood to have shown an interest in British troops using the batteries.

Alex Parfitt, capability technology leader for materials at BAE Systems, said: "Structural batteries can be used in virtually anything that requires electricity from small gadgets to entire vehicles.

"It can not only support our soldiers on the frontline, but also revolutionise technology in the consumer market by allowing more efficient, elegant and lighter designs."

The technology has been developed by merging battery chemistries into materials that can be moulded into the structure of the devices themselves.

technology news Frock fit for any gadget lover & science

IT looks like a technology-loving fashionista's dream and a technophobe's worst nightmare, but this is one dress that is more likely to be looked at than worn.

Made from 500 metres of cables that would be found lying around the home connected to

electrical devices, it was designed by young British designer Craig Lawrence who has dressed the likes of pop star Lady Gaga and model Daisy Lowe.

The frock, commissioned by Currys and PC World, features the stores' Sandstrom cables,

and was unveiled on Thursday in London.

Mr Lawrence said: "This has been a challenging but enjoyable project to work on.

"The Sandstrom cables used to create this piece have really given the dress its natural, voluminous, structural form.

"Its texturised, multi-faceted exterior allows the finished piece to capture light in a way that isn't too dissimilar to the reflective surface of sequins, while the multi-coloured wires encased in the cabling itself have been split up to add colour and depth to the overall dress."

Andrea Silver, Currys and PC World marketing director, said: "This is a very unique and unusual collaboration for us, and we are incredibly excited about unveiling the finished dress ahead of London Fashion Week."

The dress will be displayed in the Currys and PC World Tottenham Court Road store for a week before touring Currys and PC World stores, including Westfield Stratford, Birmingham, Manchester Trafford Centre and Bristol.

It will then be showcased at The Gadget Show Live in April before being exhibited at London's Fashion and Textile Museum in August.

ÂŁ25m boost for mobile phone network A ÂŁ25 million upgrade to mobile phone networks in Northern Ireland is set to improve coverage for many users.

Enterprise minister Arlene Foster welcomed a commitment from the providers of Orange, T-Mobile and Three UK to boost levels across the region.

The initiative will expand their 3G coverage to an area encompassing 94% of the population of Northern Ireland by the end of this year, up significantly from around 54% at present.

Other mobile networks will not be affected by the move.

Mrs Foster welcomed the investment after a meeting with representatives from the companies. "This is excellent news for Northern Ireland," she said. "My department has for a number of years recognised the importance of state-of-the-art telecommunications networks to the development of the economy."

Mrs Foster said the Stormont Executive was also committed to improving the 4G platform to support the latest mobile technologies.

"News of an investment of this size in the growing mobile sector comes at an important time," she said. "My department has consulted extensively on telecoms investment priorities for 2011-2015 and has received endorsement

for proposals to examine ways to deliver improvements in high-speed mobile delivery.

"We are in detailed discussions with the UK Government to source sizeable funding to deliver a 4G platform to allow us to benefit from the next evolution of mobile services."

Mrs Foster said she intended to bring together the Mobile Operators Association, representative body for the UK's main mobile

network operators, the network operators and fellow MLAs to discuss opportunities.

"I have been approached by the Mobile Operators Association and asked to sponsor an event at Parliament Buildings to stimulate debate on development of mobile networks," she said. "I will be writing to all MLAs in due course to encourage them to come along to this event and engage with the key stakeholders."

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Soft toy floating down river sparks penguin rescue dash

A full-scale animal rescue was launched by emergency services after members of the public mistook a soft toy floating down a river for a real-life penguin in distress.

Rescuers were scrambled after a 999 call was made about a 'penguin' floating down a river on a block of ice.

The alert - in Heidelberg, Germany - started when passers by saw what they believed was a living bird bobbing down the River Necker.

It appeared as if the penguin was stuck to the ice and in distress because it was not moving, prompting the animal lovers to take action and call the police.

But after sending a rescue squad, red-faced officers discovered the bird was simply a soft toy frozen into the ice by pranksters.

'It was someone's idea of a joke about the freezing weather,' explained one officer.

'But people thought it was a real penguin that has escaped from a local zoo.'

Father mistakenly shows porn at kids' party instead of The Smurfs DVD

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Diner suffers heart attack tucking into 6,000 calorie Triple Bypass Burger An American diner had to be rushed to hospital after suffering a cardiac arrest while eating a 6,000 calorie 'burger to die for' at the Heart Attack Grill.

T

he unidentified man was half-way through his mega-meal when he began suffering chest pains at the restaurant chain's Las Vegas branch.

Paramedics rushed to the scene and stretchered out the customer, believed to be in his 40s, into an assisting ambulance. The infamous diner, which uses the phrase- 'A taste worth dying for'- has previously come under criticism in the US for its irresponsible promotion of unhealthy eating.

Owner Jon Basso has denied the incident was a publicity stunt, saying: 'The gentleman could barely talk. He was sweating, suffering. 'I actually felt horrible for him because the tourists were taking photos of him as if it were some type of stunt.'

'Even with our own morbid sense of humour, we would never pull a stunt like that.' The gut-busting burger, a favourite with hungry customers, contains three slabs of meat, 12 slices of bacon and is usually accompanied by 'Flatliner Fries'. Last year the company ran a promotion offering a free meal to any customers, known to staff as 'patients', weighing over 25st.

The recommended daily allowance for men is just 2,000 calories however some meals in the diner top over 8,000.

A controversial advert run by the company last year caused outrage promoting the restaurant's fat-tastic food- including the Quadruple Bypass Burger. It featured the line: 'In some cases mild death may occur.'

Obesity remains a major killer in the US who spend an estimated $316.4 billion every year to fight the disease.

A waitress poses with the calorie packed burger

Swiss man replaces car's broken heater with a wood burning stove When his Volvo's heater broke, Pascal Prokop took drastic action to avoid the bitter Swiss winter and installed a wood burning stove in the front of his car.

A child's birthday party took on an unusually adult theme when a father mistakenly played pornographic images from his laptop, instead of a rented copy of The Smurfs, to the children. Police say they don’t plan to charge the father, from Utah in the United States, over the incident, which was said to be 'fleeting but obvious'. Tremonton police chief Dave Nance told the Standard-Examiner of Ogden the man had rented a copy of The Smurfs and loaded the disc into his laptop.

However, when he turned the projector on for the children, pornographic images flashed on the screen instead.Authorities got involved after the father complained somebody had tampered with the DVD. But when police checked and found nothing wrong, they suggested the most likely scenario was that the porn was already on the laptop - and he'd pressed the wrong button.

Officials aren't pursuing any charges because the incident was most likely an accident, Chief Nance added.

Ss Europe is brought to its knees by the big freeze, motorists have been advised to take extra precautions when making long journeys.

Drivers and passengers are now making sure they have torches, blankets, food rations, wellies, a thermos of sweet hot tea and a map, just in case their journey is interrupted by an unexpected blizzard.

But if Pascal falls prey to the current precipitation predicament, he won't be too bothered. He drives a 1990 Volvo 240 - a model that is usually seen with a couple of black labradors and muddy football boots in the back - but

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Pascal, who lives near Zurich, removed the passenger seat and in its place put a metal mounting bracket to which he then bolted the stove.

So he doesn't choke, he also installed a chimney that funnels out the carbon monoxide and smoke.

He decided to install the contraption after the car's heater broke. Swiss officials are fine with the modification, and have even granted him a permit from the country's technical inspection authority.

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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.

Do I Have a Drinking Problem?

4 Key Questions to Ask Yourself can sometimes be hard to know when you begin to drink too much.

You are at risk of drinking too much and should talk to your doctor if you are: 1. A woman who has more than 3 drinks at one time or more than 7 drinks a week. A standard drink is 1 can of beer, 1 glass of wine, or 1 mixed drink.

2. A man who has more than 4 drinks at one time or more than 14 drinks a week.

by Megan Fennell

A

lcohol abuse means having unhealthy or dangerous drinking habits, such as drinking every day or drinking too much at a time. Alcohol abuse can harm your relationships, cause you to miss work, and lead to legal problems such as driving while drunk (intoxicated). When you abuse alcohol, you continue to drink even though you know your drinking is causing problems.

If you continue to abuse alcohol, it can lead to alcohol dependence.Alcohol dependence is also called alcoholism.Alcoholism is the physical or emotional dependence on alcohol. It comes in different forms: A person suffering from alcoholism might get drunk every day, or wait for the weekend to binge. Regardless of the drinking pattern, long-term heavy alcohol consumption affects the liver, heart, and brain, and it can be difficult to overcome without help. You are physically or mentally addicted to alcohol.You have a strong need, or craving, to drink. You feel like you must drink just to get by.

You might be dependent on alcohol if you have three or more of the following problems in a year: • You cannot quit drinking or control how much you drink.

• You need to drink more to get the same effect.

• You have withdrawal symptoms when you stop drinking. These include feeling sick to your stomach, sweating, shakiness, and anxiety.

• You spend a lot of time drinking and recovering from drinking, or you have given up other activities so you can drink.

• You have tried to quit drinking or to cut back the amount you drink but haven't been able to.

• You continue to drink even though it harms your relationships and causes you to develop physical problems.

What are some signs of alcohol abuse or dependence?

Certain behaviours may mean that you're having trouble with alcohol.These include: drinking in the morning, being drunk often for long periods of time, drinking alone, changing what you drink, such as switching from beer to wine because you think it will help you drink less or keep you from getting drunk, feeling guilty after drinking, making excuses for your drinking or doing things to hide your drinking, such as buying alcohol at different stores, not remembering what you did while you were drinking (blackouts), worrying that you won't get enough alcohol for an evening or weekend.

How are alcohol problems diagnosed?

Alcohol problems may be diagnosed at a routine doctor visit or when you see your doctor for another problem. If a partner or friend thinks you have an alcohol problem, he or she may urge you to see your doctor.

Your doctor will ask questions about your symptoms and past health, and he or she will do a physical exam and sometimes a mental health assessment. The mental health assessment checks to see whether you may have a mental health problem, such as depression.

Your doctor also may ask questions or do tests to look for health problems linked to alcohol, such as cirrhosis.

How are they treated?

Treatment depends on how bad your alcohol problem is. Some people are able to cut back to a moderate level of drinking with help from a counsellor. People who are addicted to alcohol may need medical treatment and may need to stay in a hospital or treatment centre.

Your doctor may decide you need detoxification, or detox, before you start treatment.

Detox flushes out the alcohol in your body.You need detox when you are physically addicted to alcohol. When you go through detox, you may need medicine to help with withdrawal symptoms. ter detox, you focus on staying alcohol-free, or sober. Most people receive some type of therapy, such as group counselling.You also may need medicine to help you stay sober.

When you are sober, you've taken the first step toward recovery.To gain full recovery, you need to take steps to improve other areas of your life, such as learning to deal with work and family.This makes it easier to stay sober.

You will likely need support to stay sober and in recovery. This can include counselling and support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous.

Recovery is a long-term process, not something you can achieve in a few weeks.

Treatment doesn't focus on alcohol use alone. It addresses other parts of your life, like your relationships, work, medical problems, and living situation. Treatment and recovery support you in making positive changes so you can live without alcohol.

STOP SMOKING IN ONE HOUR AND STAY STOPPED FOR GOOD

What can you do if you or another person has a problem with alcohol?

If you feel you have an alcohol problem, get help. Even if you are successful in other areas of your life, visit a doctor or go to a self-help group.The earlier you get help, the easier it will be to cut back or quit.

Helping someone with an alcohol problem is hard. If you're covering for the person, you need to stop. For example, don't make excuses for the person when he or she misses work.

You may be able to help by talking to the person about what his or her drinking does to you and others.Talk to the person in private, when the person is not using drugs or alcohol and when you are both calm. If the person agrees to get help, call for an appointment right away.

Don't wait.

If you think you might have a drinking problem, take a short quiz to check your symptoms: 1. Have I ever felt I should cut down on my drinking?

2. Have people annoyed me by criticizing my drinking?

3. Have I ever felt bad or guilty about my drinking?

4. Have I ever had a drink first thing in the morning to steady my nerves or to get rid of a hangover?

If you answered “yes” to two or more questions, you should get help.Talk to your doctor, and check out groups like ModerationManagemen.org, a recovery program and national support network for people who have decided to reduce their drinking.

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Alcoholism is a long-term (chronic) disease.

It's not a weakness or a lack of willpower. Like many other diseases, it has a course that can be predicted, has known symptoms, and is influenced by your genes and your life situation.

N.B. REMEMBER, HALF OF ALL REGULAR SMOKERS WILL BE KILLED BY THEIR HABIT

How much drinking is too much?

Alcohol is part of many people’s lives and may have a place in cultural and family traditions. It

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Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) – What Is It?

by Megan Fennell

Chronic fatigue syndrome, sometimes called CFS, is a condition that makes you feel so tired that you can't do all of your normal, daily activities. There are other symptoms too, but being very tired for at least 6 months is the main one.

Many people improve in a year or two and do not have a relapse. Some people continue to have severe fatigue and other symptoms for many years.

The disease is not well understood. Most experts now believe that it is a separate illness with its own set of symptoms. But some doctors do not believe this.

There are no tests for CFS. Because of this, many people have trouble accepting their disease or getting their friends and family to do so. Having people who believe your diagnosis and support you is very important. Having a doctor you can trust is critical.

Your tiredness is real. It’s not “in your head.”

It is your body's reaction to a combination of emotional and physical factors.

What causes CFS? Doctors don't know what causes CFS. Sometimes it begins after an illness like the flu, but there is no proof of any connection. It's likely that a number of factors or triggers come together to cause CFS. What are the symptoms?

Extreme tiredness, or fatigue, is the main symptom. If you have CFS: 1. You may feel exhausted all or much of the time.

2. You may have problems sleeping, or you may wake up feeling tired or not rested.

3. It may be harder for you to think clearly, to concentrate, and to remember things.

4. You may also have headaches, muscle and joint pain, a sore throat, and tender glands in your neck or armpits.

5.Your symptoms may flare up after a mental or physical activity that used to be no problem for you.

6. Depression is common with CFS, and it can make your other symptoms worse. Antidepressant medicines can help you feel better.

How is CFS diagnosed?

There are no tests for CFS. Doctors can diagnose it only by ruling out other possible causes of your fatigue. Many other health problems can cause fatigue, and most people with fatigue have something other than chronic fatigue syndrome.

addiction counselling How is it treated?

There is no treatment for CFS itself, but many of its symptoms can be treated. A good relationship with your doctor is important, because the two of you will need to work together to find a combination of medicines and behaviour changes that will help you get better. Some trial and error may be necessary, because no single combination of treatments works for everyone. Home treatment is very important. You may need to change your daily schedule, learn better sleep habits, and start getting regular gentle exercise.

Counselling and a gradual increase in exercise help people with CFS get better. Even though it may not be easy, keeping a good attitude really helps. Try not to get caught in a cycle of frustration, anger, and depression.

Learning to cope with your symptoms and talking to others who have the same illness can help you keep a good attitude.

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Helping people to recover

Did you know?

Word Puzzle!

Here is a game that you can play to test your skill. This game will present you with a matrix filled with letters. The objective is to form words by concatenating adjacent letters. Letters that are to the left, right, on top, bottom, or on a diagonal to each other are all acceptable.

SAMPLE PUZZLE Here are some words that can be found in this sample matrix: any chant panel path trench Here are some words that are not valid in this puzzle: chance - uses the 'c' twice chaps - 's' is not adjacent

PUZZLE TIME ACROSS

by Megan Fennell

Al Capone myths

The “fact” that Al Capone evaded justice numerous times and was finally indicted for income tax evasion is partial myth. Capone was apprehended and served time in prison prior to his conviction for tax fraud.

In the 1920s, the FBI was not authorized to investigate gangsters and organized crime. Capone’s first arrest – by the FBI – was for contempt of court, not for tax evasion. Capone posted bond and was released.

WIN! €25

1. Lou, go above. (anag.) Wexford village famed in song, where Father Murphy led a revolt in 1798. (10) 5. Chin up! Come to Kerry resort with a 4 mile beach on the Dingle peninsula. (4) 9. Act before the French to get the unemployment benefit. (4) 11. "Anarchism is a game at which the ------ can beat you." Shaw. (6) 12. Dogged reversal for the 11 across in Antrim, Armagh, Derry, Down, Fermanagh and Tyrone. (1.1.1.)

13. Jolly time spent in Glengarriff, undisturbed. (3) 14. Fuss at a party function? (3) 15. Cuts off always when there's a ship around. (6) 17.Throw the tar on the playing surface. (5) 18. Is it suitable for Pat to come around? (3) 19.Vehicle returns under prefix. (3) 21. Leg hair disposed of by Queen Bess's favourite tobacconist, involved in massacre at Smerwick Bay. (7) 22. "Now there's ane --- of ane old song." -James Ogilvy on signing the Act of Union of 1706. (3) 23. "I must --- down where all the ladders start in the foul rag and bone shop of the heart." Yeats. (3) 24. At the rear of the boat in finest Erne traditions. (5) 25.Tom goes back in the miller's river, that will take him down a peg or two! (6) 27. "No, ---, never no more, will I play the Wild Rover, ..." Irish ballad. (3) 28. Shoe mender's tool found in Portlaw leather works. (3) 29. Put the Scottish headgear back on the floor. (3) 31. Run, and won in a brand new way. (6) 32. Amount speculated in Buttevant equitation. (4) 33. Hobo put out in Fermanagh underground cave system west of Enniskillen. (4) 34. Fine, as then disturbed by the Irish Republican Brotherhood of old.

(3,7)

The powerful machine inside you

Your heart beats 101,000 times a day. During your lifetime it will beat about 3 billion times and pump about 800 million pints (378 million litres) of blood. A normal heart beats 70 to 80 times a minute. Over 70 to 80 years, it gives a few billion beats.

It is the powerful machine inside you.

DOWN 1. Old Celtic porcine totem seen in Drumshanbo arrangement. (4) 2. Late scold about small Meath town, an angling centre for Lough Sheelin. (9) 3. Compete, that is, after victory. (3) 4. Once in place, a time to start the fairy story. (4) 6. Bernie ceded that his brother's girl be included. (5) 7. She ate holy mixture in Thurles establishment where on 1st November 1884 the G.A.A. was founded. (5,5) 8. Shorn raven in flutter over longest Irish water. (5,7) 10. Rod's own plate gets broken in County Dublin racecourse. (12) 11. Chop stew, nun. (anag.) Kildare steeplechasing course. (11) 16. Holy dabble up in West Cork resort near Schull under Mount Gabriel. (10)

20. Label many in disguise in large Antrim linen town in the River Braid valley.(9) 26. "It is impossible for an Englishman to open his ----without making some other Englishman hate or despise him." Shaw (5) 28. Building feature evident in popular Charleville hotel.

(4) 30. Sots are in the horrors and throw up! (4) 32. Primate involved in Ballina Pentecostal service. (3)

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Our Latest Winner

13% of people are left-handed In medieval times, left-handed people could not become knights because it was thought that they were descendants of the devil, it is said. Spiral staircases in castles ran clockwise to allow knights – all right-handed – to battle intruders effectively. The word for left in French means gauche and in Latin it means sinister.

What cigarettes contain

Peter Gillmurray of Knocknarea, Co. Sligo

To be in with a chance of winning, fill out the crossword and your your name, telephone number and address and post to Puzzle Time Competition, Northwest Express, Unit 3, Riverview House, Barret Street, Ballina, Co. Mayo. - Good Luck!!

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57. goo (1) 58. keg (1) 59. lam (1) 60. lea (1) 61. lee (1) 62. leg (1) 63. lek (1)

64. log (1) 65. loo (1) 66. lot (1) 67. mae (1) 68. mel (1) 69. not (1) 70. oke (1)

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Name: Address: number:  Telephone   

Tobacco is a $200 billion industry, producing six trillion cigarettes a year – about 1,000 cigarettes for each person on earth. :*+)* And this is what you’ll find in cigarettes:  which embalmer use to preserve dead bodies; ~ Formaldehyde,  ~ Toluene, which is commonly used as an ingredient in paint thinner; ~ Acetone, an active ingredient in nail polish remover; ~ Ammonia, which scientists have discovered lets you absorb more nicotine, keeping you hooked on smoking.

First stone lighthouse lit by only 24 candles The first documented lighthouse was the Lighthouse of Alexandria, built in 200 BC on the island of Pharos by the Egyptian (145#.'+02'4('%6%10&+6+10 %#0$'6'56'&#0;6+/'(+456 '#5; &4; 176&114 %*#+45 Emperor Ptolemy. Considered as one of the Seven Wonders of World, it is thought to have been 492 ft (150 metres) high 615''9+..$7;4+%'> 7+6#$.' (14 &1/'56+% #0& the – about three times taller than modern lighthouses. !'. %1//'4%+#. 75' 4+%' >       

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S

earch now underway to find the 2012 Rose of Tralee - 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! Selection events will be

held in every county from March until June with 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.

Each county has a different selection date and application deadline, so the best thing to do, is log on to www.roseoftralee.ie now to download an application form. 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.

Each lady who is chosen to become her county’s Rose will win a wonderful selection of prizes from Newbridge Silverware, Carlton Hotel Group and local event sponsors.

So will you be the next Mayo Rose?

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 wait is finally over….PJ Gallagher is back at the Royal Theatre, Castlebar.

Join star of RTE’s Meet the Neighbours, PJ Gallagher, with his much loved comedy show ‘Raging’ live at the Royal Theatre, on Thursday 19th of April 2012.

PJ has played sold out shows throughout Ireland and at the biggest and best comedy festivals that the country has to offer including Kilkenny Cat Laughs and The Carlsberg Comedy Carnival.

He has been an almost permanent fixture on Irish television since Naked Camera arrived to RTE in 2005 and since then he has gone on to make his own series Makin' Jake, in the USA and documentary, Back in the Saddle, all about his exploits and adventures in his other passion of motorbike racing. He is still racing and hopes to one day make it to the Manx GP. His TV appearances also include The Late Late Show, Tubridy Tonight, The Miriam O Callaghan Show and The Saturday Night Show, among others.

On 2FM, PJ has become a regular contributor to the Colm and Jim Jim Breakfast Show where he can still pretend to be other people and characters, without having to show his face or get caught out!

In May 2010 the mini box set of Naked Camera was released for the last time. This series has already made triple Platinum sales and won an IFTA for best entertainment show in 2006.

Since releasing his second stand up DVD, Just Jokes, with Universal in 2009 PJ has been working on his new six-part series Meet Your Neighbours. Set in a Dublin suburb, PJ plays a host of colourful characters who make up this close-knit community.

Tickets €20 are available from the Royal Theatre Box Office on 0818 300 000 or 094 9023111.

Also online from www.RoyalTheatre.ie or ticketmaster.ie.

This show is at 10pm and includes admission to niteclub after.

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...a hive of business and indust!"

Bunree Business Park....and Industrial Estate

Our Products include: • Acrylic Displays • Display Cases • Slatwall Shelving • Window Displays • Brochure Holders • Lotto Displays • Collection Boxes • Catering Displays • Retail Displays • Newspaper Displays • Pick 'n Mix • Signage • Podiums • Lightboxes • Wall Mounted Displays • Machine Guards • Moulded Panels and Parts • Fabrication and Materials • Plastic Accessories • Funeral Plaques

Bunree Industrial Estate, Ballina, Co. Mayo Tel: 096-70913 • Fax: +353 96 72975 info@collinsplastics.com • www.collinsplastics.com

B

unree Business Park and Industrial Estate employs hundreds of local people and provides a major platform for Ballina’s economy.

Developed just a few years ago, the Business Park, with its anchor tenant, Supervalu, houses a number of top quality retail outlets. Included is Tile Superstores, who also have a presence at Galway Road, Tuam. They now have top value in wall and floor tiles, baths and bathroom accessories. Also adding

variety to this park are Trevor Morrow Furniture and Molloy’s Pharmacy. Topclass storage facilities are available at Ballina Self Storage.

A variety of businesses have units in the Moy Valley Resources’ Centre.

Bunree Industrial Estate has been the prominent centre for small/medium manufacturing and other industry in Ballina over the years. Collins Plastics supply a wide range of products.

Injection Moulds and Dies have built up a reputation for precision engineering.

Archers Builders Providers and household business has been part of the Ballina landscape for decades.

Many visitors to Ballina may not be aware that such a wide range of business and industrial activity takes place in this region of a town which is much more than Europe’s “Salmon Capital”.

Extend your home and summer with one of our conservatories

Suitable for most bungalows

FREE ES ESTIMAT

Ardnaree, Ballina, Co. Mayo • Tel: 086-2545481 • Panel beating • Spray Painting • Colour coding - bumpers, spoliers, mirrors etc (top of the range paint scheme) • Chassis re-alignment • Free replacement car

Recovery & tow in service

design features • A cost-effective way to add an extra room to your house.

• Doors can be positioned on any of the three sides of the conservatory for maximum choice and flexibiliy.

WEST COAST WINDSCREENS

Ballina: 096-70175 • Castlebar: 094-9250697 • Claremorris: 086-2545481 www.mrwindscreen.ie • email: info@mrwindscreen.ie

• Windscreens • Heated rear windows • All Bodyglass (door glasses, vents, quarter glasses) • Agricultural • Plant • Commericals • We Repair Stone chips

• Two or four opening windows to ensure good air circulation and effective temperature control • Lead-free A1 rated windows

WESTERN WINDOWS & GLASS

Aluminimum, PVC-U Windows, Doors & Conservatories

Free mobile service throughout Mayo We direct bill most insurance companies

Unit 4, Abbey Business Park, Ardnaree, Ballina, Co. Mayo Tel: 096-25514 / 096-75521 / 086-8171442 tahennigan@eircom.net

UNIT 12, ABBEY BUSINESS PARK, ARDNAREE, BALLINA TEL: 096-78896 • OPEN MON TO SAT 10am - 6pm

5ltrs of Parazone €4.99 • 5ltrs of Domestos €5.99 5ltrs of Ariel Liquid €16.50 • 5ltrs of Bold Liquid €16.50 5ltrs of Daz Liquid €16.50 90 Washes Ariel Power €18.99 90 Washes Bold Power €18.99 90 Washes Persil Power €18.99 90 Washes Daz and Surf Powder €16.99

Leading Brands at Discounted Prices

4 Rolls of Toilet Paper as low as €1 18 Rolls of Nicky Toilet Rolls €5.50

85 Wash Box of Daz - Special Offer only €12.99 5ltrofComfort €6.50 Cases 24 Cans - Only €9.20 Coke / Diet Coke / Zero Coke / Club Orange / Fanta Cases of 24 Cans - Only €7.99 7up / Pepsi Finish Powerball Dishwasher Tabs 70’sCoke €8.99/ Zero Coke / Club Orange / Fanta 6 Pack Cans - €2.30 - Coke / Diet

WE ARE OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

Discount Exhaust and Tow Bar Centre SUPPLY AND FREE FITTING SERVICE

Huge Range of Exhausts Catalytic Converters and Tow Bars Ardnaree, Ballina, Co. Mayo • bosalmayo@gmail.com

Tel: 096-79733

Motorcycles

Brand New Honda 50 n da 50 o H w e N d n Br a eg R e p. 2 0 1 2 R

only €1749

Abbey Street, Ardnaree, Ballina Co.Mayo Tel: 096 79694 Email: tonybikebizz@gmail.com

Ardnaree & Bunree, Ballina ARDNAREE

...a hive of business and indust#$

T

HE Ardnaree and Bunree areas in Ballina are distinct districts on the east side of the River Moy and have enjoyed a significant growth in business and industry in recent decades. It is interesting to note that these areas, in addition to The Quay, are the oldest parts of Ballina town and were originally part of Co. Sligo until the Local Government Act of 1898. The remains of the Augustinian Abbey dated to 1427 can still be seen on the east bank of the river beside the Neo-Gothic-style St. Muredach’s Cathedral.

The residents of Ardnaree have always maintained an immense pride in their particular part of town, boasting a very fine Gaelic football team for many years. The growth of so many businesses and industries has given this part of town a degree of selfsufficiency and independence with the added boost of additional business flowing from other regions of Ballina.

In recent times a number of business parks have sprung up offering a diverse range of services. In Abbey Business Park, Ardnaree Tool and Plant Hire have carried on an excellent business for 24 years. A more recent addition, Crean

Kitchens, has an unrivalled range of kitchens and accessories, including special homemanufactured products.

The Discount Warehouse provides leading household brands at discounted prices and are anxious to point out they are open to the general public. Western Windows and Doors are renowned for their craft, having moved here from Barrett Street some years ago. Further up the street, it is difficult to match Primary Solution for computer systems and

services. MK Tyres have been tops in their trade for many years, while Gerry McCafferty’s Exclusive Collision Centre and West Coast Windscreens offers a wide range of services to motorists. Tony Meenaghan’s bikes are certainly the “Bizz” and his Discount Exhaust and Towbar Centre has a reputation for efficiency and quality of service. These, in addition to Londis Supermarket and a plethora of other smaller retail and service businesses help to support and maintain a vibrant local community in Ardnaree.

TOOL & PLANT HIRE

Abbey Street, Ballina. Co. Mayo • Tel: 096-70630 / Fax: 096-72222

FOR THE BEST SERVICE: Hire • Sales • Repairs Celebrating 24 years in Business OPEN MONDAY TO SATURDAY 8am - 6pm All small tools and plant repaired and serviced to the highest standard. Always a selection of new and used tools and plant for sale at discounted prices. Hydraulic hoses repaired and made to order. We stock Oils and greases

SALE NOW ON - Calor Gas for only €27 Main Agents for Hitachi / Ryobi / Makita Power Tools Castlegarden / EFCO Lawnmowers / Strimmers / Hedgetrimmers

Unit 3 Abbey Business Park, Ballina

Tel: 096 79590

Email: aiden@creankitchens.ie Web: www.creankitchens.ie

“Passionate about desig!.” Want something different?

2nd Floor, Abbey Quarter, Abbey Street, Ballina, Co. Mayo

We can design and manufacture a door to suit your tastes.

15% OFF all appliances with any kitchen deposit received before

29th FEBRUARY Panel and worktop cutting service available

• • • • • •

Forensic Investigation Tax Compliance Payroll Bureau Business Advisory Company Secretarial Bookkeeping services T: (096) 72050/21123 • F: (096) 79571 E: info@dillonmccarron.ie W: www.dillonmccarron.ie