SIN Vol. 19 Issue 08

NUACHTÁN SAOR IN AISCE VOL.19 Issue 8. 06 FEB 2017

Student Independent News

Ó Maoileannaigh backs USI campaign against “horrid” direct provision

By Martha Brennan NUI Galway’s Students’ Union has joined the fight against the horrors of Ireland’s direct provision scheme and is actively taking part, along with numerous Student Unions across the country, in the protest against what SU President Lorcán Ó Maoileannaigh referred to as the modern day Magdalene Laundries.

On Saturday 20 January the SU and numerous NUI Galway students took part in a protest against direct provision in Galway and the SU President was especially taken back by a woman who had spent the last nine years trapped by the scheme in Galway.

“We’re not campaigning against asylum seekers,” the SU President told SIN. “We’re campaigning against the horrid conditions that they face.”

Direct provision was a system set up as a temporary measure in Ireland in 2000 to house asylum seekers until they are granted refugee status. On average, over 4,500 people spend over three years in the system and 600 asylum seekers in Ireland have spent over seven years imprisoned by direct provision. The system has been referred to as dehumanising by many organisations and has been criticised by the UN and openly condemned by international groups.

Yet as we enter into the second month of 2018 the system has seen no improvements and people are being forced to live in shared, cramped, hotel-sized rooms with only €21.60 a week being allocated per person. The asylum seekers are required to sign in and out of the accommodation and cannot be absent

from their accommodation for more than three consecutive nights. They are not allowed to work or attend third level education and are often not allowed cook for themseleves or their families.

“These centres are like prisons,” Lorcán said.

“The fact that secondary level students in the system can’t enter into third level education is something the USI feels very strongly about.”

The majority of Ireland’s 34 centres are run by private companies who are profiting from the scheme. The USI recently staged a protest of the Aramark-owned Avoca store in Dublin for their connections to three of the centres and Trinity College students also organised a boycott of Aramark owned caterers on their campus, with UCD following suit this semester.

USI President Michael Kerrigan protesting outside Avoca in December. Photo by Roisin Power for University Times

While no NUI Galway restaurants are associated with Aramark, our SU is backing Trinity on their campaign with Lorcán stating that “the fact that there are companies reaping benefits from people’s suffering is not acceptable and the USI is going to do all that it can to help end this”.

“The USI has a seat at a lot of tables and we’re trying to get our universities heard by politicians and bring this to Dáil level,” he said.

“The fact that these centres aren’t being paid attention to and that they are becoming common practice draws striking similarities to the Magdalene Laundries,” he stated. “Politicians of the future are going to need to apologise for these.”

On a lighter note, the Students’ Union made two other announcements recently: they will be taking on NUI Maynooth in another charity boxing event on 16 March.

Meanwhile the referendum 1 February passed by 90% as students were asked: “Do you agree with referendum motion proposed by the Executive Committee of the Students’ Union of the National University of Ireland Galway on 15th January 2018?”

The amendment to the NUI Galway Students’ Union constitution, as proposed by the SU Executive Committee, will result in the following: The Vice-President / Welfare Officer will become the Vice-President / Welfare and Equality Officer with added responsibilities in the area of equality. The current part-time Equality Officer position will be abolished. The current Postgraduate Officer will be abolished. Five new part-time officer positions will be created: the International Students Officer, the Gender and LGBT+ Rights Officer, the Disability Rights Officer, the Postgraduate Taught Officer, and the Postgraduate Research Officer.

CURTAIN CALL GUMS “The Producers” takes the stage at the Blackbox theatre this week

By Riona Hughes Galway University Musical Society’s (GUMS) 18th annual show is fast approaching. “The Producers” will take place in the Black Box Theatre from Tuesday 6 until Saturday 10 of February.

Based on the 1968 laugh-out-loud classic cult comedy of the same name and adapted for stage by Mel Brooks “The Producers” has won a record twelve Tony awards since its debut in 2001. When former king of Broadway, Max Bialystock, produces a string of shows that close on opening night, an unlikely alliance with a neurotic accountant leads to an ingenious scheme: raise far more money than necessary, create a sure-fire flop, take the money and run! This timeless classic will leave audiences rolling in the aisles. GUMS are pulling out all the stops with this daring production - it’s guaranteed not to flop! The hilarious characters, satirical script and catchy songs will have you asking “What kind of musical is this?” The answer? An original one.

GUMS is an amateur society run by NUI Galway students with a passion for musicals. Their productions have been nominated for numerous AIMS awards, most recently nominated for best choreography in 2017. They have received rave reviews throughout their years in NUI Galway and a number of their previous cast members have gone on to study musical theatre in London.

Society auditor Aisling Bonner told SIN she couldn’t wait for the cast’s hard work to be seen by the public, with rehearsals beginning back in October.

Tickets are €15 or €12 for concession (students or OAPs). Tickets are on sale now online at www.tht.ie and from the Town Hall Theatre and the Socs Box in NUI Galway. More information on www.nuigstudents.ie/theproducers or from The SocsBox NUI Galway 091 492852

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SIN Vol. 19 Issue 8

INSIDE Galway-based Clean Cut Meals offer healthy meal prep for students

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New Zealand Prime Minister is pregnant – should we talk about it?

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NETWORKING: what it is and how to do it

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How to be a better writer

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Head to Head: We risk mollycoddling a generation if we change definition of adolescence 9 Food poverty a problem we must face up to

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Lost Looks: 70’s Glam Rock

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BLOGGER-GATE: when do influencers step over the mark?

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10 double date ideas in Galway

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Throwing shade: backlash as limited new foundation range disappoints customers

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FILM REVIEWS: Three Billboards outside Ebbing, Missouri and Coco

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NUI Galway ball season already rolling

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BOOK REVIEW: Stoner by John Williams

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Collingwood heartbreak for NUI Galway in Mervue 25

EDITOR: Sorcha O’Connor editor.sin@gmail.com LAYOUT: Shannon Reeves

An bhfuil rud éigin le rá agat?

Cur litir chuig an Eagarthóir chuig editor@sin.ie.

Find us online: www.sin.ie

Hello everyone! Welcome to the second edition of SIN for this semester. January has finally come to a close and spring has officially started.

It’s been a long month to say the least but its time to shake off the January blues and embrace the change of the seasons – and this issue we have plenty for you to start off on the right foot.

Aine Kenny caught up with the guys behind Clean Cut Meals who shed light on how to keep the good work now that January has come to an end and making those New Year’s resolutions seems like a distant memory.

And if you told yourself you’d be a greener, more eco-friendly citizen of the world for 2018, Martha Brennan got the scoop on the new Recupán campaign running in Galway, which not only helps the planet but your pocket too. Interestingly, this week is plastic-free week around Galway so what better time to challenge yourself to improving your carbon footprint?

Martha also learned more about the Students’

FEATURES EDITORIAL: CONNELL MCHUGH The features section of this issue is easily one of the most diverse since September.

We’ve got everything covered from recent controversies surrounding the world of blogging by Aoife O’Donoghue to the topic of industry networking by Michael Glynn. We’ve got a vox-pop which is sure to divide readers; do NUI Galway students take Valentine’s Day seriously?

Claire VanValkenberg took to the student population to get your views on the matter and they were varied to say the least.

Some of you are traditional romantics and others question the need for the holiday at all. Enjoy the read and be sure to pick up SIN again in two weeks time.

Union’s stance on Direct Provision from President Lorcán Ó Maoileannaigh. It’s a busy time for the Students’ Union at this time of year as they begin preparing for the next Presidential race for the coming academic year, and some changes will be made to the executive format after a referendum held on campus earlier this month to create new part-time officer positions passed.

The GUMS musical takes to the stage in the Blackbox theatre from Tuesday 6 February. We here at SIN hope they break a leg and enjoy the success they deserve after months of rehearsals.

Elsewhere in the paper we have gone Valentine’s mad. We asked students around campus what they thought of the holiday, and we also have date ideas and movie recommendations if you fancy a night in instead of a romantic meal for two.

Meanwhile in the Opinon section, Teo Bandut takes on Roisin McManus in a debate on the prolongation of the adolescent period. Do you think scientist are right to say adolescence lasts till the age of 24 or are we simply mollycoddling a generation?

Graham Gillespie gives us a round up of all things NUI Galway in the sporting world and Gary Elbert looks back on what January offered to the boxing fans of the nation.

There’s plenty more for you to enjoy, so buy your morning coffee and sit back to enjoy your fortnightly dose of SIN. That’s all for now,

Sorcha.

FASHION & LIFESTYLE EDITORIAL: AMY McMAHON Ah Valentine’s Day! Issue eight is jam packed with lovey dovey articles but not too many that you cringe, I promise! Tarryn McGuire gives her top ten double date ideas on what to see and do in Galway. And in case you need something for that date, Grace Kieran has it all sorted for you writing about Missguided’s latest launch. For the singletons out there, Aoife O’Donoghue reassures us all it’s nearly better to be single with her article on the perks of being single.

OPINION EDITORIAL: TEODORA BANDUT

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT EDITORIAL: MICHAEL GLYNN

It is a historic time we find ourselves in, with significant events occurring to cause ripples in the current social and political fabric. What better way to digest it all than to peruse a newspaper filled with the thoughts and advice from your fellow students!

Each fortnight, we endeavour to bring to the forefront the most student-relevant content, and this week, at your disposal you’ll find a discussion on a drive to shift the perception of young people in society as per recent scientific studies. We also take on food this issue with a very interesting opinion piece on… dessert.

You’ll also find a breakdown of what’s to be expected, and taken into account, in the future of transport with self-driving cars and if you’re on the Jordan Peterson bandwagon, you’ll be delighted to see the last article we have in store!

See you again in Issue 9!

What’s that? Another arts and entertainment section in SIN? Yes, how did you know? We’ve got a great issue lined up for you guys, first off for all you lovers out there we’ve got a list of the perfect movies for you to cuddle up to on the couch and smooch or whatever you do. After this we have an article detailing the remaining balls of in NUI Galway that you must go to, ball season isn’t over by a long shot everybody.

Following this we have a criticism of the media and public’s obsession with celebrity relationships, in particular Milly Bobbie Brown. We also have a look at the latest effort form Martin McDonagh Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri. And to finish up the section we have a final review of the delightful animated film Coco. Happy reading people, enjoy.

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What do NUI Galway students really think about Valentine’s Day?

By Claire VanValkenburg

couples don’t do stuff for each other and it gives them a reason to do something nice for each other.

As the chocolate-studded holiday approaches some make plans with their special someone, some craft the perfect pickup line to land that date, while others wish the holiday would disappear. With each passing year holidays like Christmas and Easter seem to become more about selling a product, and less about the true meaning.

We wanted to find out what Valentine’s Day meant to NUI Galway students, so SIN headed to a bustling Sult during lunch and asked men and women, single, taken, or somewhere in between, about their opinions on Valentine’s Day.

Mogue McGovern, Second Year, General Nursing

I think it’s too big of a deal, but I think I’m just saying that because I’m single and it’s horrible. All the advertising is so annoying with red everywhere, it’s just not my cup of tea. I’m pretty sure it’s just because I’m single, and I have a little bit of jealousy.

Eavan McBride, Final Year, Archeology

I think Valentine’s Day is pretty commercialized. As far as if we should take it more seriously, I don’t think so. I could be wrong about that but I think it’s generally just a celebration of love, commitment and intimacy. If you have that, and you want to celebrate that, then you can make it as serious as you like. Otherwise I think it’s just cheap chocolate.

Liam Dooley, First Year, Commerce I’d say it’s more of a joke to be honest. You’re just trying to get people to buy presents like Christmas, so it’s not really much of a holiday. It’s all just so people buy stuff, it’s commercialized. It’s the same as Christmas.

Eva Ní Mhealláin, Second Year, Irish and French

I think it’s nice when you have a partner to share Valentine’s Day with because it’s not a very single-orientated holiday. I think with the cards and the gifts it’s a very commercial holiday. I think it’s nicer when people do what my parents do. They just have a nice romantic dinner, they cook for each other and have a bottle of wine, watch

a movie and snuggle up. I think that’s really cute and a really good tradition. Maybe some years he [my father] went out and bought her flowers or whatever, but he likes to pick his own flowers and stuff because he’s a gardener.

So he’s not very commercial or capitalism-based, it’s romantic. So I like that, but for me I don’t really do much for Valentine’s Day because I haven’t found that special someone yet.

Katie Keely, Second Year, Irish and French

I think the concept is nice, the idea of having a day of celebration and being all romantic and stuff. Historically it’s a nice idea with the story of it, but it’s just gone silly now. It’s pure daft, there’s nothing romantic about it at all now, it’s just “here’s the card and the flowers that the million other girls are going to receive today.” You try and do something different, but I don’t know, I just think we should try and tone it back and make it more personal, it’s not personal anymore. Stop advertising it and let the people come up with it themselves. If you want to get a card, make a card. Don’t go out and get the same one everyone’s going to get, they all look the same.

It’s always the teddy bear holding the heart like, go away, I have a lot of teddy bears, I don’t need to add to my collection.

‘I don’t need to add to my teddy bear collection!’

Jack Moloney, First Year, Commerce

I personally think it’s a nice thing. It’s a time when couples can do stuff for each other, or if someone’s not in a relationship it gives them a reason to try to get into something. That’s my opinion on it. I take it seriously because sometimes

REDUCE, REUSE, RECUPÁN New campaign to help both your pocket and the planet

By Martha Brennan You have probably never put much thought into where your morning coffee cup ends up when thrown in the bin before class, especially if it’s before 10am. However new reports show that here in Ireland we are disposing of over 2 million coffee cups into our landfills each day.

Disposable cups are becoming a huge environmental concern and politicians are now pushing to soon introduce the dreaded ‘latte levy’ which will charge an extra 10-15 cents for a dispos-

able coffee cup - much like the plastic shopping bag levy we have now grown used to.

Local non-profit community group Transition Galway are trying to reduce our coffee cup waste by introducing ReCupán, a scheme being brought into more and more Galway businesses to entice customers to drink from reusable coffee cups.

Local cafes and restaurants are offering customers 10 to 20 cent off of their beverage if they bring in their own cup - a discount happily greeted by caffeine addicted students.

Over 50 Galway businesses are taking part in the scheme including the Bialann, Friars, Sult and Zinc on campus.

Other cafes where the discount is being enjoyed are Mocha Beans, McCambridges, Butlers, Coffeewerk + Press, Espresso 44 and 37 West.

Fran Conneely, a manager at Mocha Beans, said that the cafes were more than happy to introduce the scheme when approached.

“It’s great to see people getting involved and bringing in their own cups” he told SIN.

“We’ve really noticed an increase in reusable cup usage since we started doing the discount,” he said.

“Especially with this new levy being brought in people are definitely more open to using a plastic cup”.

You can buy reusable cups from any Mocha Beans location and they offer your first coffee or tea for free and 10 cent off of every beverage after that.

Espresso 44 on Shop Street are also offering 10 cent off hot drinks in conjunction with ReCupán, which is handy for their many student cus-

tomers. Laura Porter, a barista in the popular cafe, said that Espresso 44 “want to try to entice more people to come in with their own cups” by taking part in the scheme.

“We actually already had a lot of customers using their own cups so we wanted to give back, and ReCupan enabled us to do that by offering this discount,” she said.

The coffee shop has noticed a lot more reusable cup flow since they introduced the scheme, which the staff are delighted with.

“Eventually we’d love to maybe bring in biodegradable cups, but this is a great way to

start helping the environment for now,” she added.

With so many Galway coffee shops now taking part in the scheme, and with the danger of the dreaded ‘latte levy’ looming, there is no better time to pick up a reusable cup. Besides the selection of cheap cups in Penney’s and Tk Maxx, many of the participating cafes that we all frequent are selling branded ‘Keep Cups’ like Mocha Beans, such as McCambridges and 37 West, and offer a free coffee with the purchase. Your purse, and our landfills, will thank you for it.

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SIN Vol. 19 Issue 8

NUI Galway study investigates teachers’ attitudes to religious education

By Jessica Hannon A study conducted by NUI Galway researchers in the School of Education in the university found that Initial Teacher Education (ITE) applicants are currently more inclined to comply with religious teaching practises rather than endorse or reject them.

The first study of its kind carried out in Ireland, it was prompted by the fact that 96pc of religious teaching is carried out in denominational state schools, highlighting the fact that religious diversity in teaching is both critically important and a complex undertaking.

The report also took into account the religious affiliations and religiosity of applicants and entrants to the Undergraduate Primary and ITE programmes in Ireland.

It funded by the Irish Research Council as part of the ‘NUI Gal-

way Diversity in Initial Teacher Education (DITE) in Ireland’ research project, and was led by principal investigators Dr Manuela Heinz, Dr Elaine Keane and Dr Kevin Davison from the School of Education at NUI Galway.

According to the report “given the highly complex and historic interconnectedness of publicly funded education and religion characterising the Irish school system and the associated employment equality issues, a critical investigation of the religious affiliations and convictions of Ireland’s teaching body is long overdue.”

Growing religious pluralism and secularism both in Ireland and on an international platform has sparked debate about the compatibility of these denominational schools with the many contemporary held views of religion in Ireland, and to date the position of teachers in a predominantly denominational primary

school system had received little attention in academic circles.

What’s perhaps innovative about the study is that it sheds light on the fact that the silence and invisibility of many atheist, non-practicing Catholics, minority faith students and practicing teachers is now being addressed. The study highlights the need to critically examine teacher education policy and practice, including the ITE curricular and pedagogical spaces, school cultures and employment legislation, from a social justice perspective that includes a religious diversity dimension.

Perhaps surprising are the findings of the study published in the European Journal of Teacher Education: the study suggests low levels of religious practice and religiosity among ITE applicants, many of whom would prefer to teach religion using a non-confessional approach. The study raises critical questions regarding the

experiences, constitutional rights and professional practice of increasingly secular and/or non-practicing Catholic teacher cohorts in a predominantly Catholic primary education system.

Dr Heinz states that the survey was conducted on an anonymous basis with researchers noting a high non-response rate (25%) to open ended religiously motivated questions - “which may indicate that a significant proportion of ITE applicants were reluctant or felt uncomfortable to disclose their personal thoughts regarding the requirement for primary teachers to teach religion in the majority of primary schools in Ireland” - even in an anonymous survey.

Heinz also noted the “widespread tendency of complying with, rather than endorsing or rejecting, the teaching of religion with many respondents using language like ‘it’s no problem’, ‘part of the job’, ‘grand’,

or ‘doesn’t bother me’ in their responses.”

What’s perhaps alarming in the findings is the realisation that many applicants entering the teaching profession in Ireland feel like they have no choice with regards to the element of religious education in Ireland, tracing it back to their own school days and perhaps believing they cannot stray from the education status quo in an education system that still remains heavily influenced by the teachings of the Catholic Church.

Unsurprisingly one of the conclusions form the study was the prospect of a clash between the applicant’s private beliefs and professional lives and requirements, with an emphasis on the idea that some highly motivated and suitable candidates for the teaching council in Ireland may be deterred by the experience of entering a third level learning and future professional space

that is permeated by a religious, predominantly Catholic ethos, especially if applicants are of a religious minority or an atheist belief or viewpoint.

The study suggests that it is time to ask whether it is fair, ethical or moral to put individuals who are committed to the education of our children in this difficult situation.

Dr Heinz states: “In our study, the great majority of respondents indicated a clear preference towards teaching children about different faiths/world views/religions with some respondents stressing the importance of tolerance, equal treatment and/or of children making up their own minds with regard to religious beliefs.”

By asking how future teachers feel about teaching religion, the study asks participants to not only think about what they want to teach but what their students want to learn about.

Galway-based Clean Cut Meals offer healthy meal prep for students

By Aine Kenny Clean Cut Meals is the first meal prep company based in the west of Ireland and was founded in 2015 by Conor McCallion and Michael Dyer.

Clean Cut Meals offers different meal plans to cater to everyone’s needs. The Galway-based company offer menus tailored to fat loss, lean muscle building, and even students. They deliver directly to your door, eliminating the need to sweat it out in the kitchen.

Conor is now the Managing Director of the company and Michael is the Executive Chef.

Conor and Michael studied in the Galway Mayo Institute of Technology, earning business degrees in Hotel and Catering Management and in Culinary Arts Management respectively. Both of these Galway men also hold diplomas in diet and nutrition. SIN caught up with Conor to see how Clean Cut Meals is the cutting-edge choice when it comes to fresh and healthy meal prep.

Conor explained how he and Michael first got the idea for a meal prep company when they were on a J1 in San Francisco.

“Firstly, we were both pretty into the gym, and we would work in construction Monday-Friday and hit the gym in between,” he said.

“We saw that people were bringing their meals in, fully-prepared in Tupperware, and we thought

there’s nothing really like that back home,” added Conor. They saw a gap in the market and ran with it, and now Clean Cut Meals has been going strong for two years.

Conor believes that healthy eating is becoming more and more popular with each passing year.

“I think people are starting to realise that being healthy, and eating healthy, is a lifestyle choice,” he said.

“It is not even just adults, lots of students want to eat healthy, even primary school kids are becoming more conscious of it… it really is a huge market.”

Clean Cut Meals offer a student meal plan which provides two meals a day. Dishes on the menu include turkey curry with brown rice, sweet chilli chicken with noodles and even burrito bowls. A week’s worth of ready-to-go food costs €64.95 and a month’s worth costs €239.95. All food is freshly prepared, vacuum-packed and delivered to your door in a refrigerated box. Customers can also gain loyalty points to get a reduction on their future orders.

Conor says he thinks it is particularly difficult for students to eat healthy, especially when they’re on a budget.

“There are simple things you can make, like chicken, broccoli, brown rice… good nutrition is important, especially close to exams.”

Now that January has faded away into February, many people start to give up on their New Year’s Resolutions, and they decide to ditch the healthy eating. Conor says having a meal plan in place can help people to stay motivated and on track.

“If you have meal prep done, the food will be waiting for you in the fridge. You can also make your own fake-aways at home,” Conor advised.

“Our meal plans change every four weeks so you won’t get bored of eating the same food,” he promised.

Clean Cut Meals also offer addons such as protein balls, which are mainly mixed nuts flavoured with vanilla essence, honey and coconut. They also have a range of healthy juices and soups.

All of Clean Cut Meals’ suppliers are Irish. Conor and Michael used to go down to the local markets in Galway but the business became too big so they had to source their foods from bigger suppliers.

“We get our food from Total Produce and Pallas Foods,” Conor explained. This Galway meal prep company seems to be going from strength to strength, just like their customers, who include Galway football captain Damian Comer and MMA and boxing star Dee Fitzpatrick.

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New Zealand Prime Minister is pregnant – should we talk about it?

By Claire VanValkenburg

attitude of Ardern herself.

Ardern announced she will take six New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda weeks of leave, during which Deputy Ardern announced her first pregnancy Prime Minister, Winston Peters, will this month and recieved mixed reac- take on the duties of Prime Minister. tions, spurring conversations about Opinion writer Duncan Garner thinks motherhood, politics and media.

Ardern needs more time.

According to The Guardian, over “I urge you to take six months 800 news stories relating to the preg- instead of six weeks,” Garner said. nancy have been published, earning “Only the world’s most miserable of it the title “Jacindababymania.” Some meanies would object.” commentators are bashing the media But Ardern’s perspective on what a for being sexist, while others have woman can accomplish in her career adopted the no-nonsense, business and private life has others saying this is a step forward for women and politics. Jennifer Curtin, a professor of politics, and the director of the public policy institute at Auckland University was quoted in a recent Guardian article about her thoughts on the event.

“Ardern has been in politics for a long time. We know from research that there’s no perfect time to have a baby [in politics], and women are more likely than male colleagues to be childless, which suggests it hasn’t been a mother-friendly profession,” Curtin told The Guardian. “So she is absolutely breaking norms and doing gender equality a Jacinda Ardern. Photo: Governorhuge public service, unwitGeneral New Zealand. tingly or otherwise.”

However, others are criticizing the event as a whole, saying the pregnancy should not be publicized at all because it creates sexist attitudes towards female politicians that their male counterparts would not receive.

Bernadette O’Sullivan, NUI Galway lecturer of English with an emphasis on Media Ethics and Features Writing, is appalled that this is even a story in the media sphere.

“How can the media… be obsessing about this woman’s private pregnancy? I feel it has nothing to do with her job as a prime minister,” she told SIN. “I think it’s wrong that she should have to be publicly accountable for doing what is the most natural, but also the most powerful and wonderful thing a woman can do, if she chooses to do it.”

Despite Ardern’s businesslike attitude, and hope for the future of female politicians, people are left wondering when society will stop treating pregnancy “as if it were an illness.”

“I feel that if she were male nobody would even care. I despair that a woman who’s obviously talented and who has risen to this level, which is so difficult for a woman to do in the first place, [is] now a womb,” added Bernadette.

Dr Méabh Ní Fhuartháin, NUI Galway lecturer for the Centre for Irish Studies, said Ardern’s attitude about the frenzy has helped keep the conver-

sation under control.

“Broadly speaking, I think her eminently practical and responsible responses have controlled the conversation, I hope that lasts,” she said.

“Jacindababymania” comes in the wake of Arden’s response to a New Zealand reporter who asked about her “baby plans” six hours after she was elected as leader of the Labour Party in early August.

Ardern responded saying it was “unacceptable” for the reporter to ask any woman about her plans to have children, and that those decisions “should not predetermine” a woman’s status in the workplace.

Dr Ní Fhuartháin said she sees a trend in how the media react to women in politics contrasting with attitudes towards their male counterparts.

“Undoubtedly, the questions she faces on her ‘baby plans’ are sexist, and yes, it is hard to think of any similar context in which a male politician would be questioned in the same way,” she said.

“But there are complex reactions no matter what decision a mother makes. And make no mistake, it is always the mother’s behaviours that are critiqued.”

Ardern’s reaction to the reporter went viral and three months later she was elected Prime Minister of New Zealand, becoming the world’s youngest female world leader and

the first Prime Minister to be sworn in while pregnant.

Now, Ardern is responding to the mixed reactions to her announcement with what The Guardian described as a “no-nonsense” attitude.

When a reporter asked Ardern how she managed hiding her morning sickness while also setting up her position as Prime Minister she responded, “It’s what ladies do.”

Ardern said her and her partner, Clarke Gayford, will “be joining the many parents out there who wear two hats,” and that she wants to honor the hard work many women put into their careers and families.

NUI Galway Feminist Society Auditor, Hayley Little, considers the surrounding cultural norms and expectations set in place for women in politics that may have contributed to the media explosion over Ardern’s pregnancy.

“What do gentlemen do? What does the government do to support working mothers? What do employers do to ensure mothers feel welcome and equal in the workplace? We [women] are tired of having our abilities called into question,” Little said.

Ardern said going forward she plans to be fully contactable and devoted to her duties as Prime Minister. During a recent press conference, she expressed her excitement “expand from two to three,” as Ardern and her partner welcome the newborn this spring.

Wrongful convictions expert speaks at NUI Galway

By Connell McHugh On Wednesday 24, President of the Innocence Project in Iowa, Dr Brian Farrell, spoke at a seminar in NUI Galway’s Human Rights Centre.

The seminar, which was open to the public, went into detail about wrongful convictions (particularly in the USA) and the use of DNA evidence in prosecutions. The seminar room was full with about thirty people in attendance.

Farrell outlined the work that the Innocence Project has done since its conception in 1992. It was set up

by Barry Scheck and Peter Neufeld as a “legal non-profit with a goal of investigating and identifying claims of wrongful conviction and employing DNA technology to try to substantiate those claims.” The success of the original Innocence Project has since led to almost 70 similar organisations to be established in other locations in America, the United Kingdom and Ireland.

The work that began in 1992 has now led to 353 exonerations of innocent individuals in the United

States. Farrell expanded on this number, giving interesting statistics; “of those 353 individuals, 20 had been sentenced to death, the average sentence was 14 years that was served before the exoneration occurred, 70% were minorities and about 40% of these exonerations also led to the identification of the actual perpetrator,” he told the room, clearly proud of the work the group has done in the past.

While the general population may have once thought that it seemed a simple task to identify a criminal due to the popularity of TV shows such as CSI and Criminal Minds, Farrell explained the difficulty with DNA evidence.

“To have DNA applicable in a case, you have to have biological material at the scene of the crime and you have to have that be somehow relevant to identifying the individual. All of your DNA will probably be left in this room when you leave,” he told his audience.

“But that does not link you to a crime if one were to happen here. So DNA is wonderful, but it has, in some ways, limited utility.”

There have been 2158 cases of wrongful convictions in the US, and instead of discussing the most interesting ones in speeches and at conferences, Farrell instead focusses on “the lessons that we’ve learned from wrongful convictions and what they can teach us about how to improve the integrity of the criminal justice system going forward.”

The science behind convictions is not as conclusive and uniform across all states in the US as one may think.

Each state has different policies and investigation techniques when solving a case, and this can lead to unfair treatment of suspects. Fans of Making a Murderer and The Confession Tapes, both of which were hugely popular on Netflix, understand that forced confessions are more common than one would like to admit. Farrell admits that shows such as these are helping to show the public that there needs to be reform in the justice system and that “convictions can very easily be wrong.”

Farrell closed the talk by allowing Peter Pringle and Sunny Jacobs to speak, a married couple who met after

they were both released from death row for crimes they did not commit.

They now live in Connemara and are human rights campaigners, helping

those who have been wrongly convicted to be re-integrated into society.

More information about the couple can be found at s­ unnyandpeter.com

Dr Brian Farrell, lecturer in law and human rights, University of Iowa and President of the Innocence Project Iowa. Photo: Brian Farrell

6 NEWS & F E AT U R ES

SIN Vol. 19 Issue 8

Theresa May appoints a Minister for Loneliness in the UK: what does this say about society today?

By Mark Laherty UK Prime Minister Theresa May has appointed a “Minister for Loneliness” to tackle the social and health issues caused by social isolation, appointing the Minister for Sport and Civil Society Tracey Crouch to the role.

The appointment comes after the release of a report on loneliness last year by the Jo Cox Commission on Loneliness, a committee formed in honour of the 41-year-old Labour MP who was murdered by a rightwing terrorist during the Brexit referendum in 2016. Addressing loneliness was a cause championed by the late Cox. “For far too many people,

loneliness is the sad reality of Campaign to End Loneliness, a modern life,” May said at the British philanthropy, says that launch of the new government more than half of Britons over effort.

“I want to confront this challenge for our society and for all of us to take action to address the loneliness endured by the elderly, by carers, by those who have lost loved ones — people who have no one to talk to or share their thoughts and experiences with.”

Stewart Dakers of the Guardian reacted positively to the idea of a Loneliness Minister but Tracey Crouch, Minister for expressed concern about Loneliness to the UK Government. how effective it would Photo: Chris McAndrew be. Meanwhile, The

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75 live alone and about half a million older Britons can go a week without seeing or speaking to anyone.

But what is the cause of this?

You might think that the blame rests on families who leave their old folks behind but that’s not the whole picture. It’s also created by society. The gradual move from public to private lives has been in motion since before most students of this university were born.

Nowadays we often define our identity in terms of the brands we like. Social relationships obviously aren’t dead but they’re not what they were.

You’ll often hear some of the older generation bemoaning the advance of technology but

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is controversy around its shortcomings. It’s true that some would like to see the British health service privatised but that’s not the angle anyone is taking here.

Will Britain’s new ministerial position get results? That remains to be seen. Is this a political move by a Conservative party that wants the electorate to stop seeing them as the bad guys? Maybe. But it’s also a serious statement that they understand Britain’s mental health problem is important and needs solutions and action.

Whether this is the right course of action is unclear but for a government to take no action at all in this situation would be a grave error.

NETWORKING: what it is and how to do it

By Michael Glynn

NUI GALWAY FOURTH ANNUAL

that’s not nearly the biggest reason. It’sv more to do with society treating people as consumers first and foremost.

The new ministerial position has not been without its critics. Sociology lecturer Ashley Frawley wrote in Spiked that it is not the government’s place or responsibility to ensure that we are happy. Perhaps the business of government and politics should just be balancing the books and making everything run correctly.

But then again, aren’t adequate mental health resources part of that? Part of a government’s responsibility to its citizens is to run an adequate health service. That’s why the NHS exists in Britain and there

A common trope of film and television is the business man who is constantly talking about all the opportunities he must take to network. His career seemingly hinges on this idea of networking and if he doesn’t partake, he will lose the job he already has and end up penniless and unhappy.

In reality, networking is the act of getting your face and name into the heads of as many people who are in a position to help you as possible. There are many ways in which this can be accomplished and not all of them are good.

This basic description of the act highlights an easy pit fall, someone who is memorable is not always looked upon favourably, everyone remembers the mean person in school or those that offended them in some way.

Forbes has made a few suggestions on how to appropriately approach a networking event:

1. Be yourself This could possibly be one of the most important pieces of advice in this article, if you begin a relationship with someone based on a falsity, then you’ll end up living that lie for the remainder of the relationship; which most likely will be short.

2. Treat people like friends The idea of networking is that you are making a new acquaintance who you will share contact details, which will hopefully blossom into a business relationship. What’s the best way to make an acquaintance?

Treat them like a friend.

Would you go to a friend, interrupt his/her conversation, hand over a business card, talk about yourself and then walk away? Of course not.

All too quickly you can annoy someone and scare them off by being forceful or inappropriate, and sure as anything that person will remember you. They won’t, however, want to do business with you.

Find who you want to talk to, approach them when they are free, or ask to be introduced if you have a mutual acquaintance; and build a rapport with them.

The scariest part of this whole process for you is most likely the event itself, going into a room full of strangers is a lot of pressure, especially when you are looking to gain something from it. However, you must do this. As the old saying goes “don’t ask, don’t get,” and you can’t even ask if you’re not in the room to begin with. You’ll have to go to where the networking opportunities are.

Before you’ve braved the terrors of public mingling, you’ll need to take a moment and plan out what you are going to do for the night. Will you attempt to talk to everyone for a few minutes? A couple of people for the whole night? Figure out what will best suit your interests and don’t be afraid to adapt that ‘game-plan’ as the night wears on. Just avoid ‘working the room’, this isn’t your birthday party where you have to thank each guest who came. People can sense when they don’t truly have your attention as you’ve already spotted the next person you want to talk to.

Another important point is to enjoy yourself, but not too much; be outgoing and sociable but be careful of the traditional methods of social lubrication, the bar is not always your friend.

All in all just don’t stress and you will probably come out unscathed, people are generally good and they will want to help you should you ask for it, whether it be advice that they can give you, or the name of a person who may be exactly what you are looking for. Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there and rub shoulders with your peers.

N UAC H T

February 06 2017

7

GNÉ -ALTANNA

7

How to be a better writer The Writing Process – Preparing and Planning

By Aoife O’Donoghue This column is here to help the students of NUI Galway with all aspects of academic writing. Writing for academic purposes is an essential student skill, yet for many, it is a daunting task. Run in conjunction with the Academic Writing Centre (AWC) at the James Hardiman Library, the column will focus on a different aspect of the writing process every issue, giving advice, sharing ideas and hopefully easing the burden of assignments. You can find me in the AWC every Tuesday and Thursday from 11-1 for one-to-one tutoring.

In the previous issue we began to explore the concept of writing as a process. It may have come as a surprise to some that the process starts before you ever begin to write. However, this is a crucial aspect of becoming a proficient academic writer. Learning to analyse the task ahead of you and subsequently focus your research and writing is essential, making the writing process easier down the line.

What comes next is the preparation and planning of your essay. While it may be possible to simply start writing at this stage without planning ahead, more often than not this will lead to an incoherent and unbalanced paper. To avoid this, it’s important to figure out beforehand what you want your essay to say and how you want to say it.

Much of the ideas behind our essays will have come from

information we have received in lectures and from the ideas and debates we have encountered in our research of the academic literature. What is most important however, especially in an assignment that calls for analysis or argument, is what we think about those ideas.

As well as showing an understanding of the literature, we need to show an opinion on the literature. Lecturers will often seek original thought or novel interpretations.

This understandably can seem overwhelming, especially if you’re still trying to get your head around a new concept.

So how do you make an essay your own? How do you form your own ideas about a topic so many others have discussed before? How do write an entire essay on it? Having begun your research, it’s essential to start making sense of it. There are many different methods of tack-

ling a topic, breaking it down and deciding your opinion on it, but generally they can come under the same heading: Brainstorming.

Some Brainstorming Techniques: Free Writing: Free writing is essentially writing without restriction. It is an excellent and simple way to get ideas flowing and to ease you into writing. Set yourself some time, say five minutes, to freely write whatever comes into your mind about the topic at hand.

Do not pay attention to spelling, grammar, punctuation or even if what you are writing makes sense. Just simply write! When the five minutes is up, you stop and read what you wrote. Then you reread and evaluate the ideas you have generated. From there you can cut out the bad ones, focus in on the good ones and build the body of your essay from that foundation.

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Spider Diagrams and Mind Maps: Most of us are familiar with the concept of a mind map, but perhaps we don’t appreciate their usefulness. In the centre of the page, write down the essay title, or what the paper is broadly about. From there, branch off into themes or subsections relating to that topic. Branch off from each section again, perhaps noting a particular author or paper you read or an idea that struck you when thought about that topic. Every branch should lead back and relate to the core idea at the centre of the page, and therefore the diagram will act as a visual representation of the relationships between the ideas.

Once you have brainstormed, you should find yourself with a clearer idea of the direction of your essay. This is the essential building block to one of the most crucial aspects of your

paper: The Thesis Statement.

A thesis statement is a concise summary of the key claim or point of your essay. Any analytical, explanatory or argumentative essay should contain a thesis statement. It should be specific, covering only what you will discuss in your paper and should be backed up with evidence gathered from your research throughout the essay.

Ideally, the statement appears within the introductory paragraph so as to give the reader an indication of the content of the essay.

Naturally, the specifics of your essay may change as you write, and so you may need to review your thesis statement to ensure it reflects exactly what you have discussed in the paper.

However, having a thesis statement is also an excellent way of grounding an essay and keeping all the content within it relevant to an overall goal.

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TUAIRIM

February 06 2017

HEAD to head

9

We risk mollycoddling a generation if we change definition of adolescence

24-years-old is a more realistic We do ourselves no favours if age for reaching adulthood we refuse to grow up

By Roisin McMannus Recent studies have found that adolescence now fits better into the age bracket of 10 – 24 as opposed to concluding at the usual age of 19. I agree with those scientists who believe that 10 – 24 is a more suited period for adolescence.

For starters, it has been proven that our brains continue to develop right into our twenties, according to scientists talking to the BBC. Why, then, would we pinpoint an age before we even enter this decade of our twenties as being the end of our so-called youth? No harm ever came with giving people more space for growing. Along with this, the current economic crisis has been known to force people right into their twenties and thirties to stay at home and save money to save up and buy a home for a much greater price than in the past. It’s not very often nowadays that you hear of young people moving out of the home to purchase their own property. Times have changed, and humans have developed and adjusted along with these times.

It has been confirmed that puberty in young boys throughout

the developed world now occurs roughly around the age of ten with young girls also within the developed world starting their menstrual cycles on average around the age of 13. This age for girls has witnessed a drop of four years in the previous 150 years. Why put a label of adulthood on us at such a young age of 20 when studies continue to prove to us that we do progress past this age?

From a personal point of view, I recently turned twenty and before the publishing of these studies (which prove this advanced age of adolescence), the thought of being a genuine adult threw me into an almost quarter life crisis of sorts for some time.

I began to obsess over how I yet had so much to do in my time and couldn’t stop thinking of a time when I was eight and felt how quickly time passed for me for the first time. How the concept of time operated for me back then was on a scale that I could only describe as the ‘Olympic scale’: I measured time passing in the four years that happened between each games and was unable to fathom how after the games in 2008 when I was 11 the next games would take place when I was 14, wild. A child

genius some would say.

I can and will openly admit that I don’t know how to act as an adult. I don’t own a property, I have no intention of getting married within the coming decade, therefore I also don’t intend to have any children in this timeframe, I still don’t know how to drive, and I don’t fully understand how taxes work yet or any of the money jazz to be frank.

Other than paying online for accommodation in Galway - something I would be unable to do without the much-appreciated help of my parents - I have yet to act out the role of adult for myself.

The thought that in my parents’ youth some of their friends were settling down and raising children at my age is bonkers to me. You would rarely hear of someone my age with a family today. Therefore, I think it’s fair to say that our outdated labels on adulthood should evolve and adapt suitably along with this shift. However, we shouldn’t prolong our adolescence past the newly approved age of 24.

At that stage, I hope that I will know how to drive, understand how taxes work, and hopefully avoiding an actual quarter-life crisis.

By Teodora Bandut When Britney first sang the muchloved ballad about her state of emotional in-between “I’m not a girl, not yet a woman” she was 20-years-old. At this age, the sentiment would resonate with most, as we escape the tormenting years of mood swings, crippling dichotomy of low self-esteem and perceived omnipotence feeling somewhat liberated. Scientists, it seems, now want to keep us a little bit longer in this “not a girl, not a woman” ambiguous melting pot, insisting that the adolescence period in modern times lasts until we are 24. Not ideal.

This drive for conceptional development is the response of scientists and sociologists to the circumstances in which a large portion of young people of today find themselves. It is an attempt to better reflect the current climate by causing a shift in perception. The facts are all there, we get married eight years later than the average age in the 70s, we opt for much longer periods of education in third-level institutions before our first jobs, and we delay the milestones that

are decidedly to make us “adults”.

In other words, we are a generation of master procrastinators.

The solution however is not to prolong our teens - which happens to be linguistically impossible (at least in the English language). The problem lies in the fact that we have too much choice, which ironically inhibits the choosing process.

We struggle to make a decision because we are increasingly more afraid of getting it wrong. To make a sweeping generalisation, there is no reason, other than your own miscalculations, for in 2018 to not live your “best life” as a socially well-placed college graduate - so we look for scapegoats. By accepting this newly widened adolescence, we would in some ways be absolved of more immediate responsibilities and there is less of an incentive to “get your life together” sooner rather than later. In ways, this helps alleviate the pressure for a few more years, but by no means is it a permanent answer to future uncertainties.

Admittedly, a careful balance between the introduction into adulthood and the melting of innocence needs to be struck, but

elongating the transition might not result in better-adjusted adults. For example, allowing more time and leniency for teenage behaviour won’t do anybody any good. If you ask me, an additional five years of dependence on parents would certainly make us even more wary of parenthood in the future too.

I should point out that as much as we want to wait to be certain, absolute certainty will never find us. Adulthood, dare I say, is as much of a social construct as a lot of other things we take for granted. Behind it, we find the well-hidden secret that we just get more used to not being on top of it all, thus handling our own incompetence in a way that makes us look more competent. The more practice at this “fake it till you make it” business, the better, I think. No one expects a 21-yearold to have it all figured out, but having higher demands from us than a 17-year-old is justified and most importantly, beneficial in the long run. Life only gets harder and the expectation that we must become more capable, mature and responsible can only steer us in the right direction.

Self-driving cars: here to stay or firmly in the future?

By Connell McHugh While self-driving cars may have sounded like something that would only feature in a James Bond movie from the sixties, the reality is that they are becoming part of the vehicular industry. Three weeks ago, California police confronted a Tesla which was stopped in the middle of a five-lane highway. The driver had fallen asleep and told the police the car was in autopilot. In a separate incident, a Tesla in autopilot rear-ended a Californian fire-truck as it was attending an incident on a freeway. Autonomous cars are here, but they may not be here to stay if incidents like this occur regularly. Will the pros outweigh the cons?

Pros:

1. Human error is eliminated Despite the fact that the above two incidents are a result of computer error, statistically speaking that is nothing in comparison to human error while driving, which accounts for 81% of car accidents in the US, according to the US Department of Transportation. That figure eventually leads to 88 deaths per day in the US due to car accidents.

Putting it simply, every computer knows what

9x17 is instantly, but most humans have to take some time to think about it and most would reach for a calculator. Automated cars have algorithms to determine appropriate stopping distance, distance from other vehicles and other data that decreases the chances of car accidents dramatically. Computers cannot get distracted. Humans can.

2. Insurance premiums If all cars have a miniscule chance of being involved in an accident, then ultimately car insurance costs will plummet. Car insurance in Ireland averages at €900 a year in a report by the Irish Times in 2016.

Nobody would complain if that figure was reduced.

Health insurance costs associated with road traffic accidents would also fall.

If your car knew when and where it could park at certain times there would be a reduction in illegal parking fines. Gasoline usage would be maximised.

Life would be dandy.

Or would it?

1. Cost

Cons:

The initial cost of a car that has such advanced technology so as to eradicate the need for human interference would be more than the average person can afford. The engineering, power and computer requirements, software, and sensors of Google’s selfdriving car currently adds up to more than $100,000.

Not only would it alienate a large amount of the population, but jobs would be lost. Taxi drivers would be no more and the delivery service of many countries would be disrupted.

3. Trivial benefits Imagine a car that dropped you outside the cinema and the parked itself. It would be possible with automated cars. You would save time on your commute if all cars were automated, as they would collectively behave in a phenomenon called ‘platooning’, reducing traffic, according to Eno Transportation.

2. Lack of precedent Self-driving cars may be a shiny and new idea, but there is no telling what would happen if two of them were involved in an accident. Would the passengers be liable? Or the car company? The ‘drivers’ will still require some sort of knowledge

of driving, but how much will that knowledge have to be? Will driving tests still be required? Anybody’s laptop can be infected with a virus, so who is to say that the same couldn’t happen to the cars?

These questions seem like they could amount to an interesting Black Mirror episode, but they are legitimate concerns for the future if these cars are implemented in the majority.

3. They can fail Tesla itself has advised drivers not to use the autopilot setting in heavy rain or snow as they can interfere with the car’s sensors, cameras and depth perception. We’ve all come to a set of traffic lights that are broken and may or may not be stationed by a member of the Garda Síochána. The cars would not be able to reliably react to human hand signals. There are too many opportunities for accidents with no guidance as to how to solve them.

Ultimately, humans will surely become complacent if they believe that the computer can do no wrong, and that is where issues will lie. They are still way off from being implemented in an impactful manner, but the day they do, may come sooner than we think.

10 OPI NI O N

SIN Vol. 19 Issue 8

Food poverty a problem we must face up to

By Samantha Dunne In school, my third-year teacher shared an insider tip about how best to differentiate between the spelling of a saccharine, post-dinner course and an arid terrestrial landscape.

“Dessert gets one more S,” Mrs Bourne said.

“Because who doesn’t want more dessert?”

In my third-year mind, the concept was simple - I would brave the piles of steaming Brussel sprouts to earn a place in the Clean Plate Club, a mem-

while deserts, in this context “food deserts”, are a reality the malnourished, impoverished people endure.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, “food deserts are areas that lack access to affordable fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lowfat milk, and other foods that make up the full range of a healthy diet.”

When we think lack of food, we might conjure an image of a starving village in a faraway land, a picture that flashes across our news programs frequently. But the problem also exists closer to home.

ment of Agriculture, “about 2.3 million people (or 2.2 percent of all US households) live more than one mile away from a supermarket and do not own a car.”

Food deserts aren’t specific to one region; they’re widespread throughout even the developed world, especially in financially disadvantaged households or areas. Proximity and income level are two significant factors in determining health level. Malnutrition is just as deadly as undernutrition.

Hunger is the short-term consequence; cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, cancer, and other health problems are the longterm effects. When faced with hunger, however, a survival instinct kicks in. We’ll take the fattening, greasy fast food sandwich and fries just around the corner over the fresh farmer’s market salmon and broccoli three kilometers up the road.

A growling stomach speaks louder than a stammering heart.

Dr. Eva Orsmond mentioned how income level determines health after travelling around different towns in Ireland for RTE’s Ireland’s Health Divide documentary.

2013 data from the Department of Social Protection shows “600,000 people experience food poverty in Ireland,” according to Guardian reporter Kathleen Kerridge. And Europe isn’t the only Western continent facing food poverty. bership which came with a chocolatey bowl of ice cream or a sliver of fruit-flavored pie at the close of the night.

But now that I’m older I’ve come to associate desserts and deserts in different terms, ones that divide our society. Desserts are a treat the over nourished, privileged classes indulge,

2013 data from the Department of Social Protection shows “600,000 people experience food poverty in Ireland,” according to Guardian reporter Kathleen Kerridge. And Europe isn’t the only Western continent facing food poverty.

According to the Economic Research Service of the US Depart-

“Now I see how the cards are stacked against people who live in disadvantaged areas,” she said.

A 2016 Safefood study calculates the price we must pay for health: “€55 for a single adult to €160 per week for a family of two adults and two children - unaffordable sums for those on social welfare”. Living paycheck-to-paycheck forces people to forfeit certain daily expenses, and food is usually the first to go. Cutting back on rent isn’t an option, so instead, people will restrict or amend their diets.

One of the goals of Europe 2020, the European Union’s 10-year strategy to improve national and European economy and welfare, is to eliminate poverty and social exclusion. Eurostat studies show, in 2016, 17.3% of the EU population faces income poverty. A statistic like this may make us feel hopeless, like poverty is too big an issue to handle.

We see government systems reinforce societal divides, increasing distance between underfed and overstuffed.

But we can handle it.

So, how can we help? Community progress becomes global progress—starting small is the first step. Donating food, volunteering at food banks, starting a community garden or simply educating those around you about the realities of food

poverty are easy ways to get involved.

There are many community projects in Ireland with a focus on food poverty. Healthy Food for All is just one initiative working toward that Europe 2020 goal. “[Healthy Food for All is about] supporting local communities to address the food needs in their own area,” according to director Sinead Keenan.

“We’re managing a three-year programme which funds 10 projects [Community Food Initiatives] across Ireland – running a garden, supermarket tours, cookery classes, talking about the issues and the challenges that people face in accessing healthy diets.”

Some projects include baking and cooking classes at the F2 Centre in Fatima and breakfast club at St. Eithne’s National School in Edenmore.

One focuses on exchanging healthy food tips and recipes, the other on feeding hungry schoolchildren.

Next time you’re sitting in a heated restaurant, gorging on courses tailored to your palette, remember the person, maybe on the other side of the iced café window, groveling for morsels to feed a family of four. I only wish food poverty were as simple as spelling, that the letter ‘s’ could bridge the societal distance between dessert and desert.

Jordan Peterson: a welcome force against groupthink

By Gary Elbert Among common findings of psychological research investigating the components and attraction of group mentality formation, is that each group believes itself almost unanimously to be correct and the opposing group to be incorrect. This clear demarcation extends to each group being unable to view the other group as human, such is the perceived dichotomy of value-afforded legitimacy.

Attempts to debate are thus distilled into opposite counter-points where goals such as acceptance, alignment of the self and ultimately self-validation become superior drives, and ultimately the most important drive of all, the search for truth.

When Dr Jordan Peterson agreed to be interviewed by Cathy Newman on Channel 4 the outcome of the nowviral interview has once again raised questions about the validity of this left-right divide that scars western society. The interview also triggered a wider debate about the nature of group thought as a destructive and nihilistic force when it comes to rational and sober discussions.

Newman seemed to enter the interview on the offensive, her opinion and self-identity firmly in the corner of oppressed women and positioning herself as a crusader against inequal-

ity. Her mind was already made up about who Jordan Peterson was and what he represents beforehand, and she pursued the interview in a pernicious style while the acerbic and rational Peterson opted to rely on basic details like empirical evidence and facts, which are quite important apparently.

Only seven women are leading the top 100 FTSE companies stated Newman, presenting this as indisputable evidence of a tyrannical patriarchal elite continuing to oppress the women of the world. Peterson countered this with evidence of a highly imbalanced number of women choosing to enter compassionate professions and results of endless studies which prove that in general women are more agreeable and conscientious than men.

Newman took this as generalising women, absurdly ignoring the actual data which again proves this scenario.

Newman made the common mistake of entering the debate unresearched, unqualified and equipped only with a highly personalised emotional attitude based on superficial knowledge and as the interview progressed she was clearly well out of her depth. And no, that’s not a misogynistic statement, the evidence of the interview is clear for all to see: one person speaks calmly and thoughtfully based on years of reading and academic excellence, the other is

reduced to trying to discredit Peterson by using his analogy of lobster’s nervous systems being almost identical to humans and furthermore the hierarchies of human organisation are present too in lobsters, thus giving credence to one of Petersons core beliefs; we may strive for equality of opportunity, but full equality of wealth and achievement is a utopian dream. Without the presence of inequality, ambition and selfdevelopment begin to decay. One person striving to achieve something will by the very nature of his or her actions trigger inequality.

Interestingly, Peterson confirmed to Joe Rogan on a YouTube broadcast that Newman had been very pleasant up until the point that the camera started rolling.

Extreme left ideologues dislike Peterson who is now arguably the world’s foremost public intellectual if not the first truly significant one this century.

Peterson rails against the virus (as he perceives it) of neo-Marxism in third level institutions from Yale and Harvard, and he believes the humanities

are suffering terribly because of this proliferation of left-wing academics who are effectively failing to prepare students for life after college by offering them reasons why society is so bad but failing to offer any solutions.

Yes, the world can be unfair, says Peterson but hey it’s a hell of a lot better than it’s ever been. So instead of wallowing in the sheer unfairness of

politics is not about transphobia but rather his determination not to cede the linguistic territory to neo-Marxist ideologues. Whether you agree or disagree, we should applaud his stance as a vital and necessary consequence of living in a free and democratic environment where diversity of opinion and freedom of expression are the foundations of our existence.

When Dr Jordan Peterson agreed to be interviewed by Cathy Newman on Channel 4 the outcome of the now-viral interview has once again raised questions about the validity of this left-right divide that scars western society. The interview also triggered a wider debate about the nature of group thought as a destructive and nihilistic force when it comes to rational and sober discussions. the way society has organised itself after millions of years of evolution, Peterson wants us to clean our room, keep a daily schedule, walk tall and straight in the world, and maximise our potential. His refusal to embrace the ideologies involved in identity

Dr Jordan Peterson promotes optimisation of our individual capabilities rather than hiding behind groups. It’s the kind of advice we can all do with.

That way we can be masters of our own destinies not pawns in a game beyond our control.

What Will You Do In

2018 ?

Learn Sign Language SU Sign Language 10 Week course starts 30th January

Have the Best Summer Ever SU Working & Travelling Abroad Fair Wednesday 24th January

Raise Money For Charity

SU Charity Collection Day Saturday 3rd February for Domestic Violence Response & AMACH!

Run For Election SU Election Nominations open Thursday 22nd February

Learn To Save Lives SU Life Skills First Aid Responder Course / CFR Course / ASIST

Climb A Mountain SU Charity Croagh Patrick Climb Saturday 17th February

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12 FA SH I ON & L I F E ST Y L E

SIN Vol. 19 Issue 8

LOST LOOKS: 70’s Glam Rock

By Brigid Fox

“L

ost Looks” is a new feature in the Lifestyle and Fashion section of SIN. These articles will be dedicated to studying musicians that influenced a specific genre and their impact on fashion during this time. The purpose of these pieces is to show a connection between the music in an era and its effect on fashion, questioning whether the two go hand in hand or if they are completely segregated.

Following this, a look will be created inspired by the week’s theme, taking the key characteristics of the fashion and giving it a modern twinge. This week’s genre is 70’s glam rock which will explore the history of the most influential artists at this time and their place in fashion.

As the style and music from the “Age of Aquarius” sixties ceased, the 70’s sought to push its boundaries further both musically and artistically; for many this meant revolutionary fashion and style. Thus, 70’s glam rock was born. Thrusting in certain characteristics and styles from the previous vibrant sixties, 70’s glam rock brought colour, vibrancy and most importantly, glitter. Also known as “glitter rock”, 70’s glam rock saw the birth of glitter makeup, platform boots, leather body suits and everything eccentric.

It is impossible to discuss this genre of both music and fashion without mentioning its most prominent influencer to this day, David Bowie. Although famous for his musical talents, it is difficult to study Bowie without exploring into his obscure fashion sense. In

mentioned in an interview with Lucy Hall in the Culture Rock Magazine. More current to this, her hairstyle was an inspiration for the Friends character Rachel in the earlier seasons, known for her choppy, layered bob.

Evidently, the influence this 70’s glam rock musician had on fashion lingered on for many years after forever being rediscovered to inspire more generations.

From this musical genre and style brought post-modern glam rock with famous bands such as KISS and the New York Dolls who took the 70’s look to a somewhat more aggressive, darker toned level while still maintaining the eccentric, gender bending assets of glitter rock. This progress is relevant as it inspired more modern genres such as hair metal and glam punk that followed years later.

Cherish Marasigan’s article The Evolution of Glam Rock Fashion, Bowie like other artists such as Suzi Quatro, Iggy Pop and T. Rex Marc Bolan impacted the world in two forces: through their style and music.

Androgyny, “gender bending” and eccentricity were the composing trio that made this genre stand out in an ever changing artistic world. Male musicians such as Bowie, Iggy Pop and T. Rex Marc Bolan are specific examples of this genderless fashion, who comfortably portrayed themselves wearing make up, heels, glitter, dresses - all stereotypically feminine styles. A quote by Iggy Pop addressing this shows the careless and free spirited attitude towards fashion at this time possibly influenced by the sixties: “ I’m not ashamed to dress ‘like a woman’ because I don’t think it’s shameful to be a woman”. This could be argued to be very ahead of its time because of its controversial ideas and thoughts that are still relevant today.

Suzi Quatro, a 70’s glam rock musician who played a significant role artistically in this period is also well known for her iconic looks. Her fashion often contrasted with the feminine style of David Bowie and Iggy Pop, alternatively portraying herself in more masculine fashion; leather jackets, jeans and her famous ragged style hair. Her look and music influenced other famous artists like Joan Jett and Siouxsie and the Banshees as

he 70’s glam rock inspired looks given in this article were encouraged by the dominant characteristics of the fashion such as colour, platform boots, leather and vibrancy while adding a personal and modern touch. The first look was inspired by early 70’s glam rock like Bowie or the British band Wizzard. The floral shirt purchased in a charity shop for six euro gave the colour and vibrancy so commonly associated with this genre. Paired with a faux fur vest from Penneys, it reflects the mixed materials and eccentricity of glam rock looks. This was followed by black jeans from Next giving a more modern edge to the look finishing it off with, of course, pink suede platform boots from Penney’s.

The other picture included the previous shirt but was paired with black laced heels and a leather skirt to portray the rock side to this style, more similar to that of Suzi Quatro who famously styled a full leather jumpsuit in her performances. Consistently, it could be a look that transitioned into post glam rock, with inspiration from KISS and the New York Dolls.

Both looks incorporate elements of this 70’s glam rock genre that could definitely be modernised into a fashion look suitable for today. Although certain aspects like full leather jumpsuits (could you imagine the sweat?) and parachute pants debatably should never be brought back into fashion, the past both musically and through its style have many concepts and ideas to offer the present day.

A final note on the connection between music and fashion specific to 70’s glam rock as has been discussed: although these artist like Mott the Hoople, David Bowie, Wizzard and Suzi Quatro to name a couple have made their name through their music, it would be naïve to dismiss their impact on fashion during this time also. Even today, musicians can delve into the fashion world fluidly, releasing lines of clothing that actually sell. The influence of music goes far beyond that of lyrics and chords and the 70’s glam era was no exception.

Androgyny, “gender bending” and eccentricity were the composing trio that made this genre stand out in an ever changing artistic world.

T

FAIS EAN

February 06 2017

7

NÓS MAIRE ACHTÁLA

BLOGGER-GATE: when do influencers overstep the mark?

By Aoife O’Donoghue For the past few years, the blogging business seems to have been on an exponential rise. More and more people have turned to social media platforms including Youtube and Instagram to capitalise on interests such as beauty, fashion, fitness or travel.

While some blogs remain the modest endeavours of people who lead ordinary lives, others have become huge successes, spawning entire brands and utterly changing the lives of the blogger in question. However, recent events within Irish social media circles have called the blogging business into question, with one controversy after another coming to the surface.

Recent times have seen a shift in terminology and many of the more successful bloggers are now presented as ‘influencers’. Ultimately, their job is to create content that literally influences the choices of the thousands of followers they have gained. Posts, images and videos are carefully curated to create an idea that the influencer’s lifestyle is one not only to follow, but one to aspire to and emulate.

Brands and businesses have recognised the power that influencers hold and as such, the world of blogging has turned into a contemporary form of advertisement. In exchange for a blogger featuring a brand and speaking of them positively on a post, the brand may pay the blogger or send them free PR packages of products to try out.

The arrangement benefits both parties; the blogger has new content to publish, along with

payment or free products and the brand gets positive exposure to a targeted audience.

Done right, there is nothing wrong with these arrangements.

However, it has been shown that too often they are done with no transparency or accountability.

Instead of using their autonomy to choose to only promote brands that they truly support, some influencers are accepting every offer that comes their way. As a result, timelines have been filled with posts promoting products such as detox teas or diet supplements that the blogger may never have even used otherwise. Moreover, people who have used such products on the recommendation of bloggers have reported illness, leading to much disillusionment.

Aside from the promotion of products, the purpose of many blogs is the promotion of the blogger themselves. In a crowded world of bloggers vying for the approval of oft-critical followers, it can’t be an easy thing to put your life on display.

As such, it is not the actual lives of the bloggers that we see, but a curated, edited version of them. Naturally, influencers want to put out their best content; however, when the idea of themselves that they convey is a completely false one, it becomes a problem.

In recent weeks, two hugely popular Instagram pages have drawn attention to the dishonesty rampant in the Irish blogging scene. Liberal use of editing tools such as Facetune was called out, with proof that some influencers were editing themselves to appear several dress sizes smaller, or as if they

had flawless skin when in reality they had acne. The argument was that they were creating a false idea of their own perfection that people desperately wanted to emulate when such perfection did not even exist in reality. By setting up this façade, bloggers were alienating ordinary people who would much rather see honest depictions of what real people look like, blemishes and all. As a result, the Advertising Standards Authority of Ireland has warned that bloggers are now obliged to state if their images have been edited, which is a positive step toward transparency.

Many other controversies erupted, such as the discovery of Terrie McEvoy’s rigging of competitions in favour of friends and family, and the revelation that Ciara O’ Doherty and Jennifer Wyrnne are selling items procured cheaply from China at colossal mark-ups while claiming they are ‘handmade Irish’ items. Anger and frustration has consequently been rife. Then in the midst of this somewhat hostile environment, the infamous Paul Stenson of the White Moose Café joined the debate.

Stenson posted on Facebook his letter of reply to a blogger who asked for free accommodation at his Charleville Lodge hotel in exchange for her posting a video about her experience to her YouTube and Instagram.

The tone of the letter is clearly in mockery, criticising her boldness in asking for free service.

The letter has received mixed reactions, with some praising Stenson for calling out bloggers and their unrealistic notions, while others have questioned

“Just wearing jeans and a nice top, hun”

By Grace Kieran “Jeans and a nice top” is the combo that will never let us down. Like hoop earrings, it is a style we can all embrace and root for, timeless and uncomplicated. A reliable friend, they will be there for you on a night out or an arduous family event.

Let’s say you’re going to Electric tonight but it’s freezing, and you do not plan on staying too long. Or perhaps you’re going for a job interview at a trendy café or bar. Or a family barbeque. Or an auntie’s birthday. Or a house party. Essentially, this pairing is the swiss army knife of fash-

ion and you are armed with an effortless look to slay all in sight.

And luckily for us, Missguided has recently masterminded their website to include a category dedicated to our favourite pairing: every blouse, bralette, bodysuit alongside each dynamic denim piece. For those times when the occasion wear tab seems excessive (not to mention expensive) but to dress yourself in everyday clothes would be an insult to the host, this online retailer has answered our prayers.

To quote their website they have created a section “for plunge tops and high neck numbers for those ‘jeans and a nice

top’ kinda events…” proving that they speak the language of the lazy student, indecisive shopper and those not willing to buy a special bra for a backless dress.

In all honesty, it is difficult to review and discuss this new feature without getting distracted by a tunic or two – with over one hundred styles to choose from, my willpower to save money is slowly falling for the versatile pieces on the nice side of fifty euros. The swiss army knife of fashion is quickly tearing a hole in my pocket and frankly I don’t mind – I needed a new pair of jeans anyway.

the need for such a derogatory tone. The blogger identified herself as Elle Darby, an English lifestyle blogger, stating that she had been ‘humiliated’ by the experience.

In the wake of the letter, Darby has received insults and threats from members of the public and in response, members of the blogging community have supported her and criticised Stenson. His reaction was to ‘ban all bloggers’ from his premises for their ‘sense of entitlement’, pointing out that he never named Darby; her exposure was her choice. However, he has condemned the level of abuse Darby has consequently received.

The issue of bloggers has become a serious one and though settling down, the debate is not over yet. Positive change has been welcomed, but there along the way, there has been a clear loss of respect.

FAKE AWAY: keeping up the healthy eating through February

By Saoirse Rafferty After a long winter break of eating our problems away in front of the telly, many of us will be looking forward to a detox from unhealthy eating. In college, this can be difficult to achieve, especially after late nights out and when rushing for early morning lectures. But don’t give up on that new year resolution yet, there’s plenty of convenient healthy and affordable fake away meals that taste so much better made at home. Forget Smacs, homemade chips are the way forward!

Homemade Chips Many people crave chips after a long day in college, traipsing to lectures for what feels like forever. You might be tempted to stroll to a chipper and take the easy, greasy option. But the only effort that goes into homemade chips is 30 minutes of patience. Potatoes are so easy to buy in bulks and can be used for lunch and dinner with any meat, or if you are feeling exotic sweet potatoes have many additional benefits, with heaps of Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and a good dose of iron, calcium, and potassium too.

• Simply preheat the oven to 180 degrees.

• Peel the potatoes and cut them into chunky chips or skinny fries, your choice.

• Rinse to remove excess starch and pat dry with kitchen roll.

• Place on a baking tray with parchment paper and oil.

• Having lots of seasonings and herbs will make the fries even better than a chipper’s. Paprika, garlic and pepper are recommended.

• Set your timer for 20-25 minutes, patience is key.

• Plate them up and enjoy!

9th February 2018

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14 FA SH I ON & L I F E ST Y L E

SIN Vol. 19 Issue 8

10 double date ideas in Galway

By Tarryn McGuire

It’s true, double dates can be awkward and kind of annoying. Whether you’re attempting to pair people who wouldn’t otherwise hang out together, or just trying to make new friends with your partner, it can prove useful to think of a few double date ideas that aren’t completely lame and awkward! So here are the top ten double date ideas to do in Galway: One of Galway’s most adored spots for dates of all kinds is the Jungle Café. Who can say no to a good cup of coffee? On a beautiful sunny day (if we ever get one) this is a cool and different spot to grab a coffee and talk the day away.

Looking for a fun and memorable night out?

Comedy at The Cellar do a weekly live stand-up comedy show featuring some of the best circuit comics from Ireland and abroad. Our very own NUI Galway is hosting the hilarious hypnotist Michael McCoy this month. Following his sold-out Semester One gig, the comedian will be returning to campus at 8pm on Monday 12 February in the O’Flaherty Theatre. With tickets selling for just €5, this would be the perfect way to break the ice and enjoy a fun night out!

The typical Galway date - a walk on the prom, a trip to the aquarium and to finish off this traditional date, you have to get 99.

Do you have a competitive streak? Why not pair up with another couple and hold your own mini tournament day – whether it’s a few games of pool or a bowling match at the Planet on Headford road, a little competition makes for a fun and flirtatious atmosphere, and it’s the ideal time for you to show off your talents (or laugh at your partners lack of them).

For couples that wants to try something a little different, head to Great Escape Rooms in town for some serious bonding time. Work together as a team to solve puzzles, crack codes, and try to escape within one hour! This would be a great way to get to know the other couple and have fun while doing it.

Maybe you and your double date companions are even more adventurous? If you’re not feeling the Valentine’s Day buzz this year, go in the complete opposite direction! If you feel that need for speed, gather your date and mates, and head to Galway City Karting.

Seeing as nobody does it like the French, this makes Java’s creperie the perfect place to take your double date gang. This little haven of French cuisine ticks all the boxes: a rustic, cosy environment with seriously beautiful desserts and crepes. Since us students can’t exactly jet off to Paris, this could be the next best thing.

Let’s be honest, you can’t go wrong with a cinema date. Take advantage of the student deal on

DEPARTURES FROM GALWAY COACH STATION DESTINATION DUBL I N A I R POR T E DUBL I N C I TY CENTR CORK EXPRESS L I ME R I C K E X P R E S S C L I F D E N C O MM U T E R L O U G H R E A C O MM U T E R B A L L I N A S L O E C OMMU A T H L O N E I T C OMMU T

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Tuesdays and head out to the IMC on the Headford road.

If you are all nature lovers, Coole Park in Gort is within driving distance of Galway. Once the home of Lady Gregory, it’s a huge nature reserve that even has its own deer.

Why not wander around the Seven Woods Trail, where WB Yeats famously took inspiration for his poetry? Barna Wo o d s i s a l s o a beautiful and romantic spot for a double date or even to take the best Game of Thrones selfies together; it’s all gnarly tree roots and overhanging branches. Easy to get to and just minutes from the city centre, it’s an absolute gem.

And finally… real Galwegians have to take the leap! Ah sure look, as a bunch of Galway students, you’ve probably heard of the prom and the diving board? But who has actually got the nerves to take the leap into the brisk Atlantic waters? This could be the most adven-

turous double date you’ll ever go on.

If there’s one thing you do this year, make it that one!

The perks of being single

By Aoife O'Donoghue Valentine’s Day is approaching and along with it, the inevitable reminder to a significant portion of the population that they are, in fact, single. For a whole day in February, nay a whole week, shops and advertisements seem to be screaming at us, “Look at you, you have no significant other! You are alone!

No heart shaped box of chocolates for you this year!”

For some, it’s a bit of a downer, but they should not despair – because in reality it’s an optimistic opportunity to buy themselves a heart shape box of chocolates the next day when they are docked to half-price.

So, in support of all the single pringles out there, this is a non-exhaustive list of the perks of being single that might make Valentine’s Day seem like it really is overrated after all.

You never have to share food or compromise on what food you want. That packet of biscuits in the cupboard is solely for your consumption and no one can dispute your decision to order a burrito bowl for the third time that week.

There’s no long, drawn out debate about what film to watch on Netflix. Even better, there’s no obligation to wait on another person to watch the next episode of your current favourite show.

If you’re already a lucky enough student to have a double bed, you can count yourself an even luckier single student because you’ll never have to share it. No one stealing the covers, snoring loudly or breathing in your ear.

You can even lie diagonally across the whole thing if you feel like it.

Saving money. Let’s face it, between date nights, anniversaries, birthdays and Christmas, other halves are expensive. When you’re single, you can use all that money you’d have spent on someone else and put it towards something just for you, because you deserve it.

Being single gives you time to dedicate to me, myself and I, the importance of which should not be underestimated in a world that rarely allows you time to stop and think. Whether it’s simply an evening in with a good book, or a big decision to go travel the world by yourself, you can do it without having to take the needs and wants of a whole other person into consideration.

February 06 2017

FAIS EAN

THROWING SHADE:

backlash as limited new foundation range disappoints customers

By Olivia Hanna On 15 January beauty brand Tarte released their highly anticipated Shape-Tape Foundation range.

The range was a follow-up to their acclaimed Shape-Tape concealer. The foundation is sold in two formulas, matte and hydrating, and comes in 15 shades. However the release resulted in near instant backlash from beauty bloggers and customers alike against the selection of shades available.

Criticism arose as people complained that there was only one truly dark shade in the entire fifteen shade range.

“The shade range for this foundation sucks,” wrote one commenter on the Tarte website.

“I had to mix together 2 shade(s) to make my color and no one wants that. The formula itself is great for my skin type, but I won’t be able to use it again until there are more deeper skin tones.”

Tarte published an apology on their Instagram stories two days after the release:

“We want to let you know, we hear you and the final shade range that we launched was definitely not a full representation of all of you… We wanted to get the product out as fast as possible, and we made the decision to move forward because all the shades were ready to go. We know there is no excuse, and we take full responsibility for launching this way… We’re doing everything in our power to bring those unfinished shades to market as fast as we can, at any cost.”

Though Tarte promises new shades, it truly is inexcusable to marginalize a large part of their consumer base. It reflects poorly on the brand when another brand Fenty Beauty launched a 45-shade foundation range last fall.

It helps that consumers and influencers are speaking up and boycotting exclusive ranges such as this but why exactly does this continue to happen? Is it lack of inclusivity within the company itself, or just plain laziness? Whatever it is, it needs to stop, because everyone deserves to feel beautiful and included.

7

NÓS MAIRE ACHTÁLA

15

TANYA BURR: iconic pieces for less than €30

Upcoming Anastasia Beverly Hills palette leaked online

By Amanda Leeson The much loved, Instagram famous beauty brand Anastasia Beverly Hills suffered a blow when it’s upcoming eyeshadow palette was leaked online.

The new palette which ABH have in the pipeline was shown to beauty lovers before the brand could even tease its impending arrival.

The palette is said to have originally been leaked from a website called “Kicks in Sweden”.

Addressing the leak on Instagram, the ABH team posted an official picture accompanied by this caption: “Unfortunately our next palette was leaked on Instagram today before we could have a chance to present it to the world. We are a bit heartbroken as we planned videos to tease the launch, along with our reveal video and subsequent campaign photography.

You will still see it all, but the element of surprise is gone, however before more of you see leaked photos

of SOFT GLAM, we want a chance to show those of you that haven’t yet seen the leaked photos.”

Leaked photos or not, we are super excited to get our hands on the new palette. However this is certainly not what they would have wanted, as the brand previously took a knock following the release of its earlier Subculture palette. The palette received some less than impressive reviews and was criticised for its poorly pressed shadows.

However, ABH seem to be returning to their cult-favourite formula when it comes to inspiration for its latest offering. The soon to be released Soft Glam palette definitely follows in the footsteps of the original, iconic shades and shadows. From the first official pictures released via the Anastasia Beverly Hills Instagram page, this palette is set to be the little sister of the mauve-themed palette, boasting soft pink shades with an array of nude tones.

Set for release in March, we have a few more weeks to wait before we can put it to the test.

Stock up your makeup bag cruelty-free

By Amy McMahon We all love MAC products, it’s a known fact.

Nothing compares to the Soft & Gentle highlight or Velvet Teddy lipstick – a Kylie Jenner favourite, might I add. But knowing MAC’s products are tested on animals begs the question, is it really worth it? It has been brought to my attention more and more how MAC makeup isn’t cruelty-free. I believe testing on animals isn’t just in any way and I can’t comprehend how people still do it.

Before I began researching, the only brand I knew to be cruelty free was Lush. Seeing as we don’t have a Lush in Galway, I thought I was out of luck. As it turns out more brands are cruelty-free than you would think. Drugstore and higher end brands both stock makeup that aren’t tested on animals, such as Bare Minerals, Tarte, Essence, NYX, Charlotte Tilbury, Urban Decay and Catrice just to name a few.

With such a price range, there really isn’t any excuse for profits, or whatever business jargon companies may come up with. Essence is one of the cheapest brands out there, with most products costing around one to five euro. Yet, they don’t test on animals to maximise profits and taking short cuts. Big brands like MAC, Rimmel, Maybelline, L’Oreal and so many more really don’t have a leg to stand on.

Cruelty-free makeup is the way forward. In a time when a voice means so much and people are protesting for equality and women’s rights constantly, don’t you think it’s time we give a voice to those without one? Testing on animals is wrong.

Simple as, no bells or whistles.

Personally, I’m aiming to only buy cruelty-free makeup from now on. I think it’s the only way to make a stand, changing the world one lipstick at a time.

By Amy McMahon I’ve been watching Tanya Burr’s YouTube videos for years now, along with the 3.7 million followers she has. With a blog, YouTube channel and her own line of makeup, Tanya Burr is a force to be reckoned with. As a 28-year-old, she combines her youthful spirit with a grownup elegance.

When thinking of Tanya’s iconic style, a couple of key pieces came to mind. All are available online, and all very Tanya-esque.

More a summer staple, but a staple never-

theless, this mid-wash denim wrap skirt from ASOS is just €29.73 and is perfect for any outfit. Ms Burr already owns and loves this piece.

Even though it is more suited to summer style, swap bare legs and a tan for tights and boots.

Just like that you’re sorted for whatever the Galway weather will throw at you.

Another must have, this doubled-up gold necklace is just €13 available from Topshop. A classic Tanya Burr accessory.

Tanya is always seen wearing a necklace very similar to this all year round. It comes in silver too, you’ll be glad to know.

NUI Galway Students’ Union Ents Presents/Cuireann Comhaltas na Mac Léinn

Michael McCoy Comedy Hypnotist

8pm Monday 12th of February 2018 8 i.n., Dé Luain, An 12 Feabhra 2018 i dtéatar Uí Fhlaithearta Tickets €5 from the SU Office and the SU Engineering Desk €5 An ticéad, le fail ó Oifig an Chomhaltais agus ó dheasc Innealtóireachta an Chomhaltas All proceeds go to Draíocht.

Tabharfar an t-airgead ar fad do Draíocht.

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February 06 2017

REVIEW: Three Billboards outside Ebbing, Missouri

By Graham Gillespie In a year where the Hollywood awards season has been defined by the #metoo campaign, it seems fitting that one of the frontrunners for the Oscars next month would be Three Billboards outside Ebbing, Missouri. London-Irish director and writer Martin McDonagh’s portrait of middle America follows a defiant, fiery protagonist in Mildred Hayes (Frances McDormand), who decides to rent out three billboards on the edge of town a year on from the rape and murder of her daughter.

She uses these billboards to question the local police force, and in particular the well-liked Chief Willoughby, played

by Woody Harrelson, as to why there has been no arrests made. The billboards are unsurpringsly divisive in the town as the locals sympathise with Mildred’s pain, but disagree with hanging a more or less decent citizen like Willoughby out to dry, especially since he’s been diagnosed with cancer. As a result, Mildred becomes a pariah within the community for the billboards, and Ebbing Police Station’s resident racist Officer Dixon (Sam Rockwell) only exacerbates the whole situation by becoming involved in a typically violent fashion.

McDormand’s brilliant performance as a woman who is at the end of her tether drives a cleverly written plot, and she might well provide the stiffest opposition to Saoirse Ronan for the Best Actress Academy Award. Indeed, each of the three main actors - McDormand, Harrelson, and Rockwell - have all been

REVIEW: Coco

By Marie Coady DIRECTORS: Lee Unkrich, Adrian Molina

CAST: Anthony Gonzalez, Gael García Bernal, Benjamin Bratt, Alanna Ubach Pixar’s second release of 2017 has finally shuffled over to our shores, but despite revolving around dead people, it’s much fresher than the stale Cars 3.

Long ago, a musician left Mexico in search of stardom. Unfortunately, he didn’t bring his wife Imelda or daughter Coco along for the ride, so Imelda turned to shoemaking and passed a bitter hatred of music down through the generations. Years later, her great-great grandson Miguel has secret ambitions to be a musician, just like his Elvis-esque hero Ernesto de la Cruz.

After accidently smashing Imelda’s photo on the ofrenda (an altar commemorating the dead), he discovers that her hated husband must have

nominated for Oscars, which is a testament to not only how superbly acted these roles are but also how well-written and defined the characters were by McDonagh.

Despite being a fairly dark story, the film still has several moments of levity throughout. Much like McDonagh’s previous offerings In Bruges and Seven Psychopaths, the comedy helps offset the violence. Despite limited screen time, it is Mildred's ex-husband’s 19-year-old girlfriend Gabriella who is the source of perhaps the film’s funniest scenes. With the film also having a number of domestic violence scenes, sometimes just before Gabriella helps lift the mood, the humour is greatly needed, and it is an impressive feat that the film refuses to be weighed down by its heavy subject matter and still finds plenty of light amongst the darkness.

Although the film has many positives, the way that Three Billboards deals with issues of race has come under scrutiny. A particular criticism of the film has been the character arc of the aforementioned momma’s boy cop Dixon. At the films outset, we learn that Dixon is a nasty individual who has tortured black people in the past.

However, as the story progresses the initially villainous character undergoes a sort of transformation, which suggests he might be a somewhat redeemable character.

This aspect of the film has been controversial prompting Alison Willmore in a Buzzfeed article to write that the film “treats racism like it’s just another

quaint regional detail”. The lack of any major black characters in the film also means that we only really get a perspective from one side. McDonagh defended his film’s treatment of race stating in a Guardian interview by Xan Brooks that; “I can totally see where the backlash is coming from. But I don’t think I redeem him (Dixon), or forgive him, or try to make him a hero because the point is that there are no heroes or villains.”

Three Billboard outside Ebbing, Missouri probably did handle the issue of race a bit clumsily, but it shouldn’t take away from a rousing and resonant performance by Frances McDormand.

Mildred Hayes is far from perfect, but she is an apt heroine for the world we live in today.

8/10

been de la Cruz and conspires to enter a talent show. Naturally, this doesn’t go down well with his slipper-wielding granny. Livid, Miguel takes off to de la Cruz’s crypt on the night of Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) and is magically transported, in living form, to the afterlife.

Ironically, the Land of the Dead is teeming with life, and we learn that our skeletal ancestors pop over to our world on Día de los Muertos to invisibly party with us. Miguel can go home with his family’s blessing, but Imelda will only grant him release if he gives up his musical aspirations. Sneaking away, he recruits the sketchy Héctor to help him find de la Cruz and get his blessing instead. If they fail, Miguel risks becoming a permanent resident of the Land of the Dead…

Plot-wise, there’s an awful lot going on, resulting in an exposition-heavy first act that drags. Thankfully, once Miguel bumps into Imelda the pace ramps up, with some of Pixar’s darkest scenes yet woven seamlessly with countless moments of splendour and joy. Their vibrant CGI work continues to up the ante - jowls and mangy dogs have never looked so palpable - and the

soundtrack by Frozen’s Robert Lopez and Kristen Anderson-Lopez plays loving homage to traditional Mexican music. The serene original song ‘Remember Me’ gets many outings in various forms, but you’ll still weep at its role in the climax. The cast have great chemistry, and as nearly all the actors are of Mexican descent, whitewashing (a huge problem in animation) is avoided.

Coco’s finest aspect is how deeply it digs into difficult themes. It introduces children to the concept of death without traumatising them, but the film also considers things that might go over their heads like dementia, betrayal, family rifts and being forgotten. Adults might find themselves leaving the cinema melancholier than youngsters. Luckily, there’s plenty of hope to offset this. The ending may be Pixar’s most clever and poignant one ever.

In a time when we reduce Mexican culture to sugar-skull Hallowe’en costumes, Narcos and wall jokes, Coco is refreshing. The pacing issues stop it from reaching the upper echelons of Pixar productions, but it will nevertheless stand the test of time.

8/10

7

SIAMSAÍOCHT

17

Romantic movies to cuddle up in front of this St Valentine’s Day

By Mark Laherty It’s coming up to V-Day. Maybe you’ll want to find a great romantic movie to watch with your friends, that special someone, or even maybe just by yourself because you deserve selflove too and me-time and a rom-com go hand in hand.

Whoever you find yourself with, here’s some great love stories from the silver screen for you to enjoy.

Coco Pixar’s latest effort isn’t an obvious love story as such but if you want a cute flick about bonds of love then try to catch this at the cinema. It follows music-loving kid Miguel as he gets stuck in the afterlife and searches for a way home. The real heart of the story lies in the relationships between Miguel and the various people in his family. He fights and bickers with his family from the mortal world but learns to better understand them over the course of his adventure.

What’s also interesting is that he meets deceased family members in the afterlife. The film is based on the Mexican festival of the Day of the Dead.

The afterlife depicted here isn’t so spooky as it sounds - it’s mostly populated with comedy skeletons. However the threat is real: Miguel’s newfound skeleton family will only agree to return him to the mortal world if he promises to give up music. What kind of a bargain is that to inflict on a kid?

The weirdness is never fully justified but it all clicks together nicely as the movie tells the story of a family across multiple generations.

Once This is Ireland’s most successful entry in the global canon of musical theatre. The theatre adaptation recently returned for the tenth anniversary of the original film. Hopefully you were lucky enough to catch it.

The story follows a down-on-hisluck musician (Guy) and an optimistic Czech girl who is new to Ireland (Girl).

Guy is hostile towards Girl at first but her sunnier outlook on life starts to rub off on him. He returns to his dream of writing music through their growing friendship. The only hitch in this love story is that Guy is already sort-of-attached to another woman who is living abroad in the US. The point of this movie isn’t really the movements of the plot but rather its two leads getting to know each other and the warm tone. Much of what’s on show here feels real and sincere. That atmosphere defines the movie as it moves back and forth between feeling optimistic and bittersweet.

Bridesmaids This can loosely be defined as a chick-flick and is mainly targeted at a female audience but there’s a lot for everyone to like in this romcom - not for nothing did the poster scream in neon pink the review quote: “Chick flicks don’t have to suck!”

We meet Annie, who is truly a little bit self-absorbed. We feel bad for her, though; after losing her bakery and her boyfriend, her life is at a dead-end. When her best friend gets engaged, Annie is obsessed with being the best bridesmaid. This usually means foiling all the other bridesmaids. Much of the movie is given over to Annie’s childish impulses and madcap schemes as the cast go through all the preparations for the wedding. This setup is written to its full potential. There are a good few gross sequences which wouldn’t surprise anyone in a male-led comedy but are remarkable here. The script is a masterclass in tightly written structure and its success is really clinched by its pathos. It may be covering wellworn territory but it makes it new and the emotional heart feels honest when it needs to. Definitely worth the watch if you’re looking for a laugh.

10 things I hate about you This 90s flick has got it all: moody teenagers, over-protective parents, high school schemes, and a showstopping performance of “Can’t take my eyes off you” by the great Heath Ledger. Exploring the minefield that is young love, this heart-warming and rather hilarious tale, tells the story of two sisters who take centre stage in high-school drama when their father bans the younger sister and social butterfly Bianca from dating until her older, less agreeable sister Kat has a boyfriend. The lovestruck Cameron who desperately wants to be Bianca’s other half, then strikes a deal with bad boy Patrick to take Kat out for money… what could possibly go wrong? Based on William Shakespeare’s comedy The Taming of the Shrew, this is one film that will bring you right back to the politics, drama, and hormones of secondary school.

Notting Hill A bookshop owner crosses paths with a Hollywood star, and so starts a whirlwind of romance. With Hugh Grant and Julia Roberts heading up this outright hilarious British romcom, this is definitely one to consider for your Valentine’s night in. It’s emotional and funny at the same time, and is simply a classic, “will they, won’t they” affair.

18 A RT S & E NT E RTAIN M EN T

SIN Vol. 19 Issue 8

NUI Galway ball season already rolling

By Graham Gillespie Not even a month into the new semester, students throughout the university are already dusting off their suits and dresses as they get ready for the various NUI Galway balls that are taking place

over the coming weeks. A number of balls have already come and gone with the Science, Medicine and Law Balls last semester - the latter of which featured house duo Waze & Odyssey - all feeling like a distant memory.

More recently the Commerce Ball took place on

PRO and Treasurer of the Eng Soc Lisa Barrow and Marissa Britton who helped organised the Peaky Blinders themed Engineering & Nursing Ball

the 24 January. The night at the Galmont Hotel and Spa was dubbed “A Night at the Casino”, and the hotel was decked out with fortune wheels, roulette tables, and blackjack and poker tables. The afters saw DJ’s Disciples headline, while Irish rap group Hare Squad and band Wild Youth provided support. Tickets to the Comm Ball also provided free entry into Electric the next day.

Following this, last week saw the Engineering and Nursing Ball also take place in the Galmont Hotel on the 31 January. The 2017 Engineering and Nursing Ball included a performance from Hannah Wants. More top DJs were recruited to go behind the decks this year as The Magician, fresh from playing in Carbon Nightclub before Christmas, performed alongside London vocalist Elderbrook.

Like the Comm Ball, tickets also meant free entry into Electric to see Belfast’s Bicep and Hammer perform the following day.

Perhaps the biggest and most popular of all the NUI Galway balls is this Wednesday 6 February with the famous Arts Ball being hosted by the Salthill Hotel. The meal itself will include a welcome from the NUI Galway Sing ‘N’ Tonics choral group,

Nothing is Stranger than our obsession with Millie Bobby Brown

By Marie Coady

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and the college orchestra will provide background music whilst you eat. At the afters, 12 acts will play across three stages, so nobody who opts to make the trip out to by the sea will be short of options.

Mullingar alternative band The Academic who just released their debut album Tales from the Backseat headline the event, whilst Le Boom and Neiked are amongst the notable support. This year’s Arts Ball is also supporting the charity Draíocht NUIG. Another ball that take place during February is the ACS Masquerade Ball at the Bailey Allen Hall on Friday February 16. This year’s edition of the ball has the NUI Galway African Caribbean Society teaming up with Athlone IT Africa society, and as the night occurs during Black History Month the dress code is “Class meets Culture”, which means formal or cultural clothing is allowed. Masquerade masks will also be compulsory for the event.

No date has been announced for the Sports Ball yet, but it is likely to take place in late March/early April. So, despite many of the balls already being behind us, there still plenty of opportunities for more formal clothed shenanigans if that’s what you are looking for.

Celebrity culture is frequently depressing, but one of its most grim aspects is the adultization of child stars. From Tatum O’Neal to Lindsay Lohan, these children are treated like mini adults, often with dire consequences. Which is how we’ve ended up with gossip websites sharing all the juicy details of Stranger Things star Millie Bobby Brown’s new relationship. In case you’ve forgotten, she’s 13. It’s not like we needed any more proof that we’re in the Upside Down, but there you go.

The problem isn’t really the reporting of the story itself. This writer would like you to know that she’s a hypocrite who clicks on Millie Bobby Brown news occasionally. Let’s face it, Millie charms everyone in her path and people are interested in her. She doesn’t have to be off-limits if your publication uses the right tone and sticks to information she shares herself. That’s what she did with this story, via an Instagram photo, so she obviously doesn’t mind the attention.

However, this is not being reported as kids doing cute kid things – media outlets aimed at adults like Us Weekly and Metro are picking up the story and using the same tone they use for adult celebrity couples. That’s weird, right? It’s only a matter of time before the paparazzi are following them around and they get their own portmanteau couple name.

Meanwhile, her fanbase is disgruntled because her “man”, 15-year-old Jacob Sartorious, seems a bit gormless. A singer who rose to fame (if you can call it that) on something called Musical.ly, he Tweets deep thoughts like “i think about the future a lot better w you in it”. We’re being too harsh on the poor lad, aren’t we? Anyway, it’s understandable when those fans are her age, but if you’re an adult getting hopped up about it, it’s time to get a hobby.

The cult of Millie Bobby Brown is an odd one.

She’s held up as being wise for her age and the next Meryl Streep in some circles, but she’s also

criticised for wearing vampy make-up or her outfits being age inappropriate. There was plenty of pearl-clutching when she wore a loose black leather dress to the Stranger Things season two premiere. Leather always equals S&M, right?

Her detractors try to disguise their whispers as concern. However, they’re still scrutinising her body and her sexuality, and getting excited about someone possibly unravelling under the pressures of fame. Former child star Mara Wilson puts it succinctly in an Elle piece about our uncomfortable obsession with Brown: “Young girls at risk, young girls objectified: It’s all titillation to them. These adults fetishize innocence, and the loss of innocence even more. They know what they’re selling.”

We like to think we’ve moved on from when websites counted down the days to the Olsen twins hitting the age of consent, but concern trolling can be just as hurtful. There are a lot of people who have no qualms about calling a child slutty – and she could easily stumble across those comments.

There are legitimate reasons to worry about Brown. She’s the breadwinner for her family – they upped sticks from England to Los Angeles to fulfil her dream of acting. There are signs she’s overworked – as well as Stranger Things, photoshoots, award shows, talk shows and music videos, she’s a big name on the convention circuit. She had to pull out of one last year because she was exhausted. And as mentioned, she has a lot of entitled fans. But you know what? We don’t know Millie or her family, and so we have no idea how stable her life is. There’s no telling how she’ll turn out, but the least we can do is to stop putting her life under a microscope.

Give the girl some breathing room. The only inappropriate thing about her private life is the grown adults acting like we need to know about it. She’s not yet old enough to be gossip fodder outside of Just Jared Jr. For now, let’s celebrate her skills as an actor and let her grow up in peace.

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SIN Vol. 19 Issue 8

BOOK REVIEW: Stoner by John Williams

By Jessica Hannon It’s little more than a mildly exciting story but this still manages to be a page turner at that. Stoner is far from what the title might have you believe, instead it is a 200 page deceptively simple novel by author John Williams chronicling the very ordinary life of a very ordinary man in the University of Missouri, America. Thinking back on the book

now, it’s difficult to pinpoint exactly what it is about the book that keeps readers going back. Is it Stoner’s relatability? Hardly - as an aging man, the only excitement in his life stemming from his quest to retain his respectable job as English professor in the university. Or maybe it’s the way in which the looming, awkward character gets under your skin, that the reader can only feel truly rid of him at the close of the novel?

Written in 1965, this contemporary novel didn’t achieve literary success upon publication, and eventually went out of print. Years later and posthumously, Stoner received validation upon its 2003 re-release.

Today, the novel has gained a cultish following, with the popularity of the novel generally spread by word of mouth, which is how I came to pick it up.

Stoner can be looked at as a novel about work, referring to not only labour but also the work

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that goes into everyday life, as John McGahern put it in his 2006 introduction to the novel. The novel quickly descends into an awkward exchange between the protagonist and readers. Stoner is an undoubtedly awkward young man, leaving home to pursue something he’s not really interested in, only to fall into a teaching career, with little motivation of his own, bar avoiding joining the war effort.

His relationship from day one with other half Edith was forced and extremely tense, a perpetually unsatisfactory marriage which Stoner appears to also avoid dealing effectively with.

This made him an unlikable character in my eyes.

With the exception of his relationship with his daughter, his love for English literature, and his extra-marital relationship which provides a break from his previous belief that ‘love was the heaven of a false religion, toward which one ought to gaze with an amused disbelief’, Stoner could almost be described as being boring and unenthusiastic.

While it ultimately sounds like a depressing read, it surprisingly wasn’t. Amid all the setbacks imposed on him, there is something uplifting about the whole thing. Perhaps it’s Stoner’s sheer determination in the face of adversary, his refusal to give up, his ignorant approach to his home situation, and the fact he returned night after night to an unloving wife and a daughter who is slowly being turned against him by his controlling wife that show a resilience of character that keeps a reader’s interest.

Much of the descriptions of anything remotely emotional in the novel are admittedly draining; Stoner’s movements can be described as ‘strained and clumsy’ and any allusion to romance in the novel is equally draining for readers, awkward and disturbing, especially in relation to his wife.

The protagonist in no way comes across as being approachable, be it in his teaching profession or in his every-day life. In some ways however, Stoner can be empathised with; he was born into a ‘difficult’ family, the dialogue between him and his parents- minimal, the dialogue between him and his host family, also minimal. His marriage and home life is difficult, with his wife Edith battling her own serious personality and mental disorders. Edith then creates a difficult relationship dynamic for Stoner and his daughter Grace, who ultimately and eventually grows up to make her own decisions, and faces her own difficulties in life.

While the novel runs on through one unsatisfactory event in Stoner’s life to another, there is a brief spell midway through his career in which he is offered some respite from his unfulfilling life, in the form of his relationship with Katherine. However, like much else in the novel, the relationship is short lived and ends abruptly. This relationship not only gives Stoner a break from his recent setbacks but it also gives readers a break from the gloomy succession of mild events that string the chapters together.

I can’t tell you if the book is sad or not, the jury still appears to be out on that all over the world. It really is something you’ll need to read for yourself and see what conclusions you come to. The book’s author John Williams looks on Stoner as a hero, something I simultaneously do and don’t agree with. Additionally, some readers view Stoner as a failure - even Stoner himself sees himself as a possible failure in the closing chapters. It’s not really up to mere readers to brand someone as a failure in life though is it? Read this one for yourself - if anything it puts perspective on life!

7/10

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Saturday 17th February 2018 • Dé Sathairn an 17 Feabhra 2018  Sign up now in the Students’ Union Office and the Engineering Building Raise €40 (minimum) to take part.

Entry includes free t-shirt and return bus!  All proceeds go to the SU Charities: Domestic Violence Response and AMACH! The Croagh Patrick Climb is a fun event open to all students and staff of all capabilities.

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February 06 2017

Collingwood heartbreak for NUI Galway in Mervue

By Graham Gillespie COLLINGWOOD CUP ROUND ONE: NUI GALWAY 0 - 1 DUBLIN CITY UNIVERSITY NUI Galway came out the wrong side of a closely contested Collingwood Cup first round clash, losing 1-0 to Dublin City University due to a late Jack O’Connor winner.

The match was played in horrid conditions on Mervue United’s 3G pitch on Wednesday 24 January after Dangan was deemed unplayable earlier that morning. Indeed, the game was even briefly delayed in the first half when the referee called both sets of players to the side-line because of extremely heavy hail stones.

The visitors had the brighter start playing with a gusting wind behind their backs, and they had the first good chance after 13 minutes when Jack Watson slid a nicely weighted through ball down the right to Rory Feely, who in turn pulled the ball back to Jamie Lennon, only for him to blaze his shot over the bar from a central

position about 15 yards out. Not long after, the Dublin university had another opportunity but Jack O’Connor’s header went straight into NUI Galway keeper James Pope’s hands.

Despite their tentative start, NUI Galway slowly grew into the game, and lone-target man Josh Marvelsy nearly opened the scoring on the 25 minute mark but his strike was deflected away via the chest of DCU goalkeeper Shane Fagan.

Moments later, Fagan exhibited cat-like reflexes to claw a looping shot to safety.

A key turning point in a first half that had few chances came five minutes later, when following a previous clash of heads, NUI Galway captain and Galway United player Conor Barry had to be withdrawn.

This was a massive loss for the Corribsiders, who were already without Barry’s United teammate Conor Melody due to injury. DCU took control of the game again towards half time, with only the crossbar preventing Alan O’Sullivan’s long range strike from giving them the lead at the interval.

The skies briefly cleared for the beginning of the second half, and the side from the capital thought they snatched the lead on 56 minutes, but Mark Walsh’s headed effort was chalked off for offside.

However, midway through the half the home side had their own dominant spell.

The industrious Rory Brennan, who came on for the injured Barry, pushed further forward to support Marvelsy and had a low shot from about 25 yards pushed behind for a corner.

A couple minutes later, Brennan would have NUI Galway’s best chance of the game when he found himself through on goal after getting behind DCU’s back line. Brennan however perhaps took one touch to many, giving Shane Fagan the chance to rush out of his box and chop him down before he could get his shot off, earning the match’s only yellow card in the process.

Just four minutes from time, John Brennan’s side were made to pay for these missed chances as Jack O’Connor found a sliver of space in the NUI Galway box,

before slotting a left footed finish into the bottom right corner to decide the game.

With their victory, DCU join the seven other quarter finalists in Queen’s University, Belfast this week, where the rest of the tournament is being played out. NUI Galway meanwhile, will have to get over their disappointment fast as they have a crucial Premier Division relegation playoff against Athlone IT set to take place over the coming weeks.

NUI GALWAY: James Pope, Mike Whelan, Maurice Nugent, Paul Healy, Gary Kineen, Dara Mullgannon, John Kennedy, Alan Murphy, Andi Peters, Conor Barry Josh Marvelsy.

NUI GALWAY SUBS USED: Rory Brennan (for Barry 30’), Ben Brennan (for Murphy 78’), Colm Kelly (for Rory Brennan 84’) DUBLIN CITY UNIVERSITY: Shane Fagan, Dylan O’Rourke, Gavin Kearney, Ross Taheny, Tristian Noack Hoffman, Eric Whelan, Rory Feely, Jamie Lennon, Alan O’Sullivan, Jack Watson, Jack O’Connor.

DUBLIN CITY UNIVERSITY SUBS USED: Mark Walsh (for Kearney HT).

IT Carlow stage comeback to secure crucial Fitzgibbon win against NUI Galway

By Graham Gillespie FITZGIBBON CUP GROUP D: NUI GALWAY 1 – 16 IT CARLOW 2 – 16 NUI Galway surrendered a four-point halftime lead, allowing IT Carlow to make it two wins from two and guarantee a spot in the Fitzgibbon Cup quarter finals. De La Salle’s Jack Fagan was the key man for last year’s beaten finalists scoring 2 – 2, all of which came in a rousing second half display at a showery Dangan on Thursday 25 January.

The home side got off to a perfect start when corner forward John Fox found the back of the net from close range in the opening moments. Free taker Darragh Burke was also a significant part of why NUI Galway raced into an early lead with him scoring three points within the first 15 minutes, including one from play.

Galway half-back Sean Loftus continued the pressure by striking a stunning long range point from his own half, stretching his teams lead to six points with the score 1 – 7 to 0 – 4 after 20 minutes.

Frees from Martin Kavanagh and goalkeeper Enda Rowland helped keep IT Carlow in touch, but NUI Galway could have pulled even further in front if Cathal Mannion’s shot wasn’t saved by Rowland, who deflected the shot wide for a 65. Mannion partially made up for this when he split the posts from near the left sideline just before half time. However, DJ Carey’s side got two late points through Wexford forward Cathal Dunbar and Kilkenny midfielder Richard Leahy to make it 1 – 9 to 0 – 8 at the midway point.

A whirlwind start to the second half from the visitors evaporated this lead as they scored 1 – 2 without reply, and IT Carlow suddenly found themselves ahead on the 33 minute mark following Fagan getting onto the end of a Kavanagh long ball to grab his first goal of the day. All – Star Conor Whelan’s only two scores of the game, both from the right side, bookended a couple of IT Carlow points before Darragh Burke tied it up again in the 44th minute.

The ten time Fitzgibbon champions looked to have regained control on the

game when they went two points clear after Sean Loftus hit a score which was almost identical to his first half effort.

However Fagan’s second goal with only eight minutes remaining swung the match decisively in IT Carlow’s favour. Points from Dunbar, Fagan and Kavanagh gave their college a three point lead in the dying embers of the match. This left NUI Galway needing a goal, and Darragh Burke’s free nearly got those vital three points, but his shot was blocked on the line by an IT Carlow defender.

The full time whistle meant IT Carlow secured their quarter final place having beaten last year’s winner Mary Immaculate College in their first game. NUI Galway played Mary I in a winner take all match up for the group’s final quarter final place on February 1.

NUI GALWAY: Shane Hennessy (Tipperary), Barry Fitzpatrick (Clare), Conor Cosgrave (Galway), Ciaran O Connor (Galway), Sean Loftus (Galway) 0 – 2, Conor Ryan (Tipperary), Padraic Mannion (Galway), Brian Concannon (Galway), Shane

Fletcher (Tipperary), Cathal Mannion (Galway) 0 – 1 , Darragh Burke (Galway) 0 – 6 (0 – 3f, 0 – 1 65), Conor Whelan (Galway) 0 – 2, John Fox (Limerick) 1 – 1, Michael Lynch (Galway) 0 – 1, Aidan Helebert (Galway) 0 – 3.

NUI GALWAY SUBS USED: Ronan Elwood (Galway) (for Fletcher 44’), Gearoid Loughnane (Galway) (for Lynch 52’), Cian Salmon (Galway) (for Fox 59’).

IT CARLOW: Enda Rowland (Laois) 0 – 1 ( 0 – 1 f), Shane Reck (Wexford), Kevin Hannafin (Kerry), Ross Brown (Waterford), Michael Redmond (Wexford), James Doyle (Carlow,) Michael Harney (Waterford), Colin Dunford (Waterford) 0 – 1, Richard Leahy (Kilkenny) 0 – 1, Sean Downey (Laois), Martin Kavanagh (Carlow) 0 – 8 (0 – 7f, 0 – 1 65’) Charles Dwyer (Laois) 0 – 1, Thomas Nolan (Tipperary), Jack Fagan (Waterford) 2 – 2, Cathal Dunbar (Wexford) 0 – 2.

IT CARLOW SUBS USED: Robert Moran (Kilkenny) (for Brown 37’), Seamus Casey (Wexford) (for Dwyer 57’), Mark Dowling (Laois) (for Nolan 53’).

PyeongChang Winter Olympics 2018: Irish hopefuls to look out for

By Owen Kennedy With the Winter Olympic Games fast approaching, the opening ceremony happens on Thursday 9 February, it seems that most of the general public has the same assumption with them: we pay heed to the fact that they exist and compete once every four years, but we don’t show any great interest in the events unless a certain bobsleigh team defies all the odds set against them. However, this year’s games are shaping up to be one of the best games in the entirety of the competition’s history.

This set of games marks a historic political progression between North and South Korea, with South Korea being the hosts

of the event. International headlines were made back on 8 January when North Korea announced they will be sending 22 of their athletes to the games, along with 24 security guards and 21 media representatives.

Ireland will be sending a whopping four athletes to the games with our Olympic-hopeful being 21-year old Dubliner Cormac Comerford, who came 49th in the World Championships for alpine skiing which he’ll be participating in at the games this year. We’re all holding our breaths in the hope that Comerford will do as good as Clifton Wrottesley did in the skeleton back in Utah in 2002, after coming fourth in the skeleton. Halfpipe snowboarder Seamus O’ Connor is also an Irish athlete to watch out for after he placed ninth back in 2014.

On the topic of the halfpipe, which is one of the most exciting sports to watch, seeing the athletes perform insane tricks and flips at heights of up to eight metres off the ground is truly breath-taking. American Shaun White, or the ‘Flying Tomato’ as he’s called, is considered one of the best at the event, breaking the world record back in 2010 by gaining 48.5 points in the event (the maximum is 50) and taking home gold. He suffered an accident on the superpipe last year whilst training in New Zealand, resulting in him getting 62 stitches on his face.

However, White will be participating this year and will most certainly be one to watch.

Another exhilarating event will be the ice hockey. Although it has become

somewhat of a joke that Canada will end up winning this year as they have over the past two decades, the matches themselves will certainly be thrilling to watch. Two of Canada’s biggest threats this year will be long-time rivals Sweden and the new adversaries Russia who have sky-rocketed up the world ranking over the past two games, now ranking second just below Canada.

Without a doubt, these historic Winter Games look set to become some of the most memorable since their inception.

With the opening ceremony literally days away at this point, the excitement for them seems to continue building. I for one, will be watching as many sports as possible attentively.

25

January boxing report

By Gary Elbert As I write a summation of January’s meagre fight action the news spills through of the GGG Canelo rematch officially set for May, a dart of beaming light during a grey and dull month. The mega showdown happens on the same night as the Haye Bellew return in what is a mouth-watering double header of boxing.

This month saw the return of Argentinian power puncher Lucas Mattysse in a thoroughly boring encounter, and a solid win for Jorge Linares who seems to be hitting his peak as a champion and presents a not easily solved conundrum to stars like Lomachenko and even Mikey Garcia.

Matchroom also confirmed that Spike O’Sullivan has signed terms to face Daniel Jacobs in a special attraction at Brooklyn with Katie Taylor co headlining the bill. It’s a ploy to attract the Irish American fanbase while also providing Jacobs the chance to showcase himself against the ever game Spike.

It’s a pity that Spike has agreed to this just as his career was finding momentum. He comes in as the opponent expected to lose and unless he can display much better head movement than in previous outings one expects Jacobs to be too slick, composed and powerful.

Spike cannot be ruled out as his power is a tremendous equalizer, but Jacobs possesses the more varied toolbox and higher level of experience, but hopefully the eccentric Corkonian can prove us wrong.

Now that the dust has settled from the Stipe Miocic- Francis NGannou heavyweight scrap, the UFC announced that Miocic and light heavyweight king Daniel Cormier will assume the role of coaches on the new season of The Ultimate Fighter before eventually facing off. Miocic was disrespected in the build up to the heavily marketed NGannou assignment and no doubt he will be eager to prove Dana White wrong once again.

Miocic is a breath of fresh air in many ways, he eschews the hype, bling and bad boy talk that fighters usually adopt to maximise their earnings, and he is content on being the work horse blue collar guy who just so happens to be an excellent well rounded functional MMA fighter. Cormier, who is 13-0 as a heavyweight, is more than capable of winning this contest and that fight will kick – off an action packed late spring and summer round of fights.

The Khabib Ferguson fight has also been made official. Hopefully there will be no more tiramisu type spanner in the works in the build-up. Rumour has it that the UFC have booked a football stadium in Russia for September, if as anticipated the mauling Nurmagomedov can sweep aside the tricky challenge of Ferguson.

As the weather starts to clear and we can aim to ingest some natural vitamin D after a long hibernation, the announcements are coming thick and fast on the fight scene with some tasty encounters just around the corner.

President's Cup a Major Success

Pictured are NUI Galway students who competed in the President's Cup. The sporting event (Tag Rugby) attracted large crowds and great day was had by all students and staff members.

The second round of the President's Cup was a major success January 31st. Students from the different colleges participated and played Tag Rugby in a fun, friendly and safe environment.

The next sporting event (Rowing/ERGs) will take place on February 14th.

SCOREBOARD AFTER ROUND TWO 1st place – Business with 18 points 2nd place – Science with 14 points 3rd place – Engineering, Arts and Medicine all have 13 points The College of Business had most participation at the first event, Cricket.

The College of Medicine had most participation at Tag Rugby.

NUI Galway’s ladies’ gaelic football and soccer clubs go head-to-head for charity

NUI Galway Ladies Gaelic captain Chloe Crowe, Match Official David Daly and Ladies Soccer captain Lisa Casserly.

Pictured are members of the Ladies Gaelic Football and Soccer Clubs at the NUI Galway sporting event in aid of Jigsaw.

Some of NUIG's finest women competed against one another in an exhibition match to be remembered, with proceeds going to Jigsaw Galway.

This great occasion saw one half played through soccer and the other through LGFA rules. It was a tight contest at halftime with nothing separating the two sides, but the second half saw a fine display of gaelic football from our GAA stars, and they took a deserving victory. We are sure the scars of defeat will not be too deep for the soccer girls, as they will want to exact revenge against their GAA counterparts in the next meeting of the two heavyweights!

Well done to the NUI Galway Footballers

Pictured are the NUI Galway Sigerson team who successfully defeated IT Sligo in the opening round of the Sigerson Cup last week.

Top Row L-R: Enda Tierney, Peter Cooke, Cian D’Arcy, Sean Mulkerrin, Tadgh O’Malley, Damien Comer, Adam Gallagher and Brian Donovan.

Front Row L-R: Ruairi Greene, Gerard O’Kelly, Aaron O’Connor, Kieran Molloy, Stephen Brennan, Owen Gallagher and Sean Kelly.

NUI Galway supporters, Tony Regan, Enda Fallon, Mike Heskin, Head of Sport, and Seamus O'Grady.

The NUI Galway Footballers are through to the Quarter-finals of the Sigerson Cup, after beating IT Sligo by 3-15 to 1-6, January 24th in Dangan.

It took less than 5 minutes for Damien Comer to find the net and NUIG went on to lead 1-3 to 0-2 after 15 minutes.

IT Sligo responded with a couple of points to double their tally but they were dealt another setback when Limerick's Brian Donovan scored NUIG's second major to leave his side 2-6 to 0-4 in front at the break.

In the second-half, NUIG picked up where they left off as they outscored their opponents by 1-9 to 1-2 with midfielder Peter Cooke in impressive form and Enda Tierney getting forward for a third goal.

NUIG - T O'Malley; S Brennan, S Mulkerrin, A O'Connor; K Molloy, R Greene, G O'Kelly Lynch; C D'Arcy (0-1), P Cooke (0-4, 2f, 1'45); E Tierney (1-1, 0-1f), O Gallagher (0-2), A Gallagher (0-1f); B Donovan (1-0), D Comer (1-2), S Kelly (0-1). Subs: R Forde for A Gallagher, C Kelly for A O'Connor, K Quinn (0-2, 1f) for K Molloy, E Finnerty (0-1) for B Donovan, G Canavan for O Gallagher, R O'Toole for D Comer.

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Election Day: Thursday 8th March 2018 www.su.nuigalway.ie

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