SIN Vol. 24 Issue 08

Nearly 3000 learner drivers in Galway waiting months before test date

By Emma van Oosterhout

Learner drivers across the country are facing average waiting list times of 19 weeks for their driving tests, with the longest waits being in Galway’s Westside test centre, with waits of up to 39 weeks.

Loughrea’s learner drivers are left waiting 30 weeks for a test. Galway’s Carnmore

testing centre follows with waits of 21 weeks, with Tuam coming in fourth for the county with a 20 week waiting period.

According to the Road Safety Authority, 50,000 learner drivers are eligible to sit their driving test. The majority of these are waiting for available test appointments or have just been called to book their test. Some learner drivers are waiting until August or September for their test slots.

Another issue faced by learner drivers is that when they are invited to book a test, they face a further wait of over a month at times.

One Galway student has explained how she had booked her driving test at the start of January and has been left waiting until the end of May at the earliest for a slot in the Tuam test centre. Another student had booked her test in August of last year, but her test was not arranged until December.

The lack of available driving tests is also having a knock-on effect for students who are commuting to university due to the shortage of affordable accommodation in Galway city. Some towns and villages that are close to the city have little to no transport options available to them.

Seán Canney, TD for Galway East suggested that the RSA should “put more testers on and employ some external qualified testers to clear the backlog.”

Mr Canney also described what he has witnessed regarding students struggling to secure a driving test slot: “I have come across some cases where students need the licence in order to go to college as the cost of accommodation is out of control. Especially students living close to the city but with no public transport.”

Éamon Ó Cuív, TD for Galway West detailed that he “would like the Minister [of Transport] to insist on waiting times of less than four weeks and if necessary to provide the resources to achieve this.”

Catherine Connolly, TD for Galway West said that her “office has contacted the Road Safety Authority seeking clarification on the matter.” She also said that she “is very concerned to hear that there is a backlog for driving tests in Galway,” and has described the matter as “unacceptable”.

The RSA and Department of Transport have been asked to comment on this issue, but no response has been received thus far.

“ I have come across some cases where students need the licence in order to go to college as the cost of accommodation is out of control. Especially students living close to the city but with no public transport.”

By Valerie McHugh Editor

Dearest readers, happy February! Welcome to issue 8, our second edition of SIN for 2023. Welcome to the new contributors that have made their SIN debut this issue too; we are delighted to have you on the team. Congratulations also to all of our SIN regulars who have done fantastic work on their pieces. It’s been a busy few weeks, and you have all been simply the best.

Our reporter Emma van Oosterhout takes the front page this week! Emma has all the latest figures on driving test waits around Galway, and has been chatting to some local representatives about the issue. Make sure to give it a read, and get in touch with SIN if you’ve your own experiences with driving centre waits!

There are plenty of fantastic articles in this issue too, so make sure to have a good flick through it!

In our usual housekeeping, if you would like to get involved with SIN, make sure to email editor.sin@gmail.com for more information. We can add you straight to our WhatsApp group from there! You can find us over on Instagram and Twitter too, where you can follow everything we get up to too. We’d love to hear from you, so do get in touch!

For now, here is issue 8. We hope you enjoy all of the pieces! Happy early Valentine’s Day, and I will see you in two weeks!

Galway teddies get annual check-up at Sláinte Society Teddy Bear Hospital

By Steven Fox

Galway’s teddy bear community were able to access vital healthcare services this week, as the Teddy Bear Hospital returned to University of Galway after a two-year hiatus.

The triage, which was hosted by the University’s SláinteSoc, aimed to dispel the fear that many children may have of the hospital experience. The teddies were given bandages,

Many of the children accompanying the furry patients had never been inside a hospital before. The hope from the day is that seeing that the procedures do their teddies no harm will make their own hospital visits less scary.

“When we get the chance to slow down and explain things, they understand and it does take away that fear,” says Aoife.

The event was very popular with the

been really good. Their teddies have all gone home safe and sound and all healed,” she said.

A range of conditions and injuries were on display. The sheer volume highlighted the vital role that the Teddy Bear Hospital plays in Galway’s teddy community. Car accidents, falls from bedsd, and even one patient whose symptoms put them “near death”, were diagnosed, treated, and cured

“ Wait times in the Teddy Bear Hospital contrast sharply with the wider Irish health service, avera

The moments that make a leader: 5 moments that define Jacinda Ardern’s time as Prime Minister

By Fionn Sexton Connolly

Jacinda Ardern announced her resignation as Prime Minister of New Zealand unexpectedly on 19 January, sparking heartfelt tributes to her both at home, and internationally. Ardern was known internationally for her warm leadership style, and the wave of popularity that followed her elevation to the premiership in 2017 has been dubbed: ‘Jacindamania’.

Ardern won the respect of many New Zealanders in the aftermath of the Christchurch mosque shootings which left 51 dead. Her visit to the scene of the horror, and her speech following it demonstrated the calm, kind, yet firm leadership she brought to the island nation.

Despite her immense popularity abroad, Ardern faced criticism at home over the length and extent of covid restrictions, as well as her handling of the cost-of-living crisis. Aside from the criticism any politician gets, Ardern was repeatedly targeted by a vicious and misogynistic campaign of abuse online. Instead of just being seen as the symbol for young women everywhere, she also started representing the anonymous hatred and violence women are subjected to online every day. Nevertheless, time should be taken to look over what has been an illuminating career, and to take stock of a leader who leaves a legacy of kindness, honesty, and self-respect. Let’s look at 5 moments that stand out:

1. 2017 General Election

After a tumultuous 2016, 2017 was not expected to be any less negative. The October win for Ardern and her party led to a minority coalition with New Zealand first and thrust the ‘relentlessly positive’ MP onto the international stage for the first time. Her message of ending child poverty and improving relations between the government and Māori groups resonated with people in New Zealand, leading to a huge uptick in popularity for her party.

2. Taking Maternity Leave

The decision of Ardern to take maternity leave during her first term as prime minister was ground-breaking in New Zealand, as well as trend setting. The conversation around maternity leave for politicians in Ireland has led to a change in the law here. The visibility of a world leader taking maternity leave was vital in advancing that right for women worldwide.

3. The Pandemic response that led the world.

As many around the world languished under restrictions, New Zealand was open for business following the successful zero-tolerance approach to COVID-19 by Ardern and her government. The rapid pace of restrictions and the closure of the border stopped much of the pandemic before it came to New Zealand. Despite criticism of the lockdown following the peak of the pandemic, Ardern’s strategy kept deaths low during a time when millions were dying worldwide due to failing healthcare systems.

4. The Christchurch Shootings.

The world watched in terror on 15 March when 51 people in the Al Noor Mosque and the Linwood Prayer Centre were brutally gunned down by Brenton Harrison Tarrant. The shooting was the deadliest in New Zealand history and led to a series of gun control reform bills passing through parliament. Ardern spoke eloquently and simply following the attacks, extending her sympathies not only as a politician, but as a mother as well.

5.Resignation

The reasons cited by Ardern for her exit have been few so far; mainly citing the weight and complexity of the job, as well as not hav ing ‘enough gas in the tank’ to continue serving in the role. A regular receiver of online vit riol and abuse, there has been much speculation made over her reasoning. Many have come to praise her decision to quit, and following the online reaction to it, have come to see her actions as vindicated.

Jacinda Ardern.

Photo: New Zealand Labour Party, CC BY-SA 3.0 NZ, via Wikimedia Commons

My toxic relationship with Instagram

By Laura Egan

I have at least four different social media apps on my phone at any given time. TikTok, Snapchat, Twitter, Instagram, it’s all pretty standard for our generation. Our self-image, even our brain chemistry, is permanently shaped by it. This isn’t news. It’s been repeated over and over. The dangers of social media, constant comparison chipping away at us. These airbrushed split seconds of perfection continue to shape the standards we hold ourselves to.

Who is the first person that pops up in your Instagram search bar? When I was a teenager, it was probably one of Love Island’s latest bombshells, maybe one of the Kardashian’s, or someone equally unattainable. I continuously scrolled through the many smooth faces, toned bodies and generally perfect lives of which I could never hope to compare. That’s the nature of social media, so we are told.

It made me feel bad, yes, but worse, it made me mean. Spiteful little consolations I would tell myself to make up for my per-

Is that really it, though? Social media is bad and toxic. It will make you hate yourself. The only way to be happy and confident is to throw your smart phone in the sea. Invest in a Blokia now to achieve inner peace. I don’t know about you, but I was looking for something a bit less drastic.

The good news is, in my humble opinion, there are other ways. If I have learned anything from my years of social media use, and hopefully I have, it’s that I am in control of my feed, not the other way around.

I think I was 17 the first time I purged my following list and started to make use of the “I am not interested in this” button. Anyone whose posts made me feel worse about myself had to go. Nothing personal, no bad feelings, just taking space away from the toxic, judgmental little doom scroller that lives in my brain. Celebrities, influencers, brands, even people that I knew, they were all on the chopping block. That was step one.

Step two took a bit more time. It meant filling my feed with people who genuinely made me feel good. Try to find creators who are bringing a bit more honesty and compassion to the platforms that brought you beauty filters and diet tea ads. People of all shapes, sizes and colours are bringing little bits of brightness to their corners of the internet. A younger me might have called them cringe, and maybe they are, but as turns out there are worse things to be.

Social media has done plenty of damage in its short life, but it’s also not going anywhere fast. I think it’s easy to call these platforms toxic, to say they’re purely bad and if we all left them tomorrow, the world would be a better place. The reality is that the impact of social media on our self-image is as much about how we use it as anything else. I still find myself caught in an endless scroll, but these days the faces, bodies and lives I surround myself with tend to lift me up rather than bring me down.

Photo: Tracey Le Blanc on Pexels

Our Local

By Megan Milne-Thompson

Local Libraries come in a lot of different shapes and sizes. You can find them in re-converted churches, such as in Loughrea, they can be built to purpose like in Scarrif, Co. Clare (not the Star Wars planet with the same name), to absolutely tiny spaces that fit in one room. Despite the variety, every local library preforms an essential role, providing place for the community. This role is the one that has come to the fore with the surge of digital media, with lots more interaction occurring online. But the shift to online resources does not change the central roles these spaces hold in the community. Rather they have integrated technology to help serve the adapting needs of the community. Modernisation has impacted these spaces, even if the building and the books look the same. Free requesting is allowed for books in any local library in Ireland, if it is on the shelf in one you can pick it up there. Digital media is also now available through your local library with Borrowbox, whether you want a audiobook or a eBook, you can use this app to borrow it just like you would in the library. LOTE 4 KIDS is a new app that allows people to access books for children in multiple languages, with the aim to accommodate families who are not primarily English speaking.

A spokesperson for Loughrea library states that the abolition of fines for late returns was the best recent innovation, as they had a big return of books and people who could not pay the fines. So, take the opportunity to return that book you checked out when you were eight and never returned, it is still on that shelf somewhere! While your there maybe check out what is on the shelves and what events they are hosting, never underestimate a librarian, you will defiantly find something you did not expect. Or ask if you can host an event, display your artwork, the space is truly yours, as part of that most precious thing, a community.

Libraries can also act at a point of contact between local government and the community. Look for those binders and posters that say “Community development plans” or “Rural area development project” these are opportunities to directly impact the way your local area will change and develop. These changes will not be the changes needed unless those implementing them know what needs to change, and those who form the community know best what it needs and wants.

These are amazing spaces, they provide areas to study for anyone, whether studying independently or as a group, students well know that this is not guaranteed for everyone at home. Not only is a space to study provided, multiple uses of the space to learn as a group, play games, accommodate community events, and provide activities for all ages. Artists can use this space to

exhibit and sell work. They are necessary to the community, they can provide access to internet, computers, and most obviously material for education and entertainment. In this world where access to these things is not universal, they become vital.

These local libraries allow inexpensive access to media that may otherwise be too pricey and give books you want to read but do not wish to own. It is a personal library with benefits. So, show your local a little love and appreciation.

Photo by Pixabay

The Rachel Diaries

By Rachel Garvey Features Editor

I wish this week was better, but life has a funny way of playing serious tricks on me. Earlier on in the week, I was called up to the manager’s office in work and was told how my probationary period would be extended by four weeks. I nearly died despite being with this particular workplace three years previous before taking a year’s hiatus at the start of January 2022.

My work performance remains perfect, but my absences were the cause of this terrible extension. It’s difficult to take in the information when you’ve been told how disappointing you are in terms of sick days, but these particular sick days were genuine; two days to recover from a month-long viral infection, one day to recover from an injury and two days where my mental health had me in chains with crippling anxiety.

However, the lighter side brings some good news. The good news is what I live for because for every bad day a good day follows along behind it. My youngest hamster, Peanut, is becoming more chill in my palm despite the odd frustrated nibble when he’s done with attention, but his older brother, Pipsqueak, lives for my cuddles. He’s a real Mammy’s boy; I’m proud of that. My novel is nearing the 20,000-word mark and even though my job has knocked my confidence down, seeing my novel come together so nicely is boosting it up bit by bit. Think of the novel, Rach, think of the novel and how this could launch your writing career. Happy thoughts.

Lastly, it was an amazing feeling to see a generous number of new faces in SIN’s meeting last Monday. I remember looking

Lift off

By Kara Wilson

Thirty hours and three flights later, I have arrived. All my problems and anxieties pushed to the future by my past self no longer have anywhere to hide and live with present me. But this is the transition period, and for those like me who crave change as much as they loathe it, what helps is to find the little comforts. The little comforts that hide in the transition period. Fortunately, I find myself at the stage in which my transition period in Ireland is nostalgic. What was once a period of great distend is now something I look back upon in wistfulness. When I was young and clueless, my first time in Penny’s, my first time on campus, my first time walking down Shop Street, my first night out. All these times that I initially experienced covered in a weighted blanket of anxiety are now times I look back on fondly. It’s a strange thing, to know that the time I live in now will feel the same way in retrospect as my 18-year-old experiences, but at the same time, comforting.

I find comfort in the familiar feelings of outlandishness. I was the same type of delusional exhausted when I landed in Valencia as I was when I landed in Dublin. I sent the same text of assurance in loca-

way I did in Corrib Village the first time. The anxious feeling of sweating profusely carrying the big brown paper bag filled with towels, sheets, and bits for the new room is the same feeling even if the bag reads Primark instead of Penny’s. The initial sense of “there’s no way I’m ever going to be able to figure out my way around.” feels the same. The first “big shop” at the grocery store feels the same. The first time you have to ask someone to repeat themselves because you can’t understand their Spanish feels the same as not being able to understand their brogue.

These are feelings of alienation and strain but are comforting in the fact that I know I’ve felt them before and that I know it will all be okay. For now, I’m just settling in, walking around, picking up bits and pieces, working on my “Spain playlist”, I’m transitioning. With classes starting next week, I anticipate an increase in newness, social experiences, and discomfort. I think that the farther away from the nostalgia I get, the more out of my comfort zone, the more I will learn, and the more I’ll have to write about. So, for now I relish living in it, and to venture out scares me as much as it excites me. But I’m ready, I’ve done my big shop, my big Primark haul, I’ve gotten my MetroCard, I’m starting to find my way

over at Valerie, the editor and giving her a thumbs up to express excitement over new faces and articles being taken up. It really is a good feeling. If anyone needs me then you’ll find me by my post-box awaiting the load of parcels I impulse bought recently. What? It’s retail therapy and a girl has to treat herself when she’s feeling down. Okay, enough of my sad life, lets move on to the other articles that I’ve due.

“ The good news is what I live for because for every bad day a good day follows along behind it.

Photo by Rakicevic Nenad on Pexels

The ROMAN-tic history of Valentine’s Day

By Nicola Gunnion

St. Valentine, the love hero back in 270 A.D, broke the rules by arranging marriages in secret and since the end of the 5th century, people started breaking the bank every 14 February.

Ever heard of love and marriage in a lottery? Luck at first sight, originated at the Roman festival, Lupercalia, which officially commenced in springtime.

‘Tis the season for the most popular wingmen – cupid and doves who bring in that sugar, spice, and everything nice feeling and ignite a spark in those McDreamy eyes.

Paris, known as the city of love, is not the only place with a trail of hearts and roses. Hundreds of people in the Philippines gather at a public wedding ceremony every Valentine’s Day declaring their love and saying, “I do.”

People in Finland, and Estonia celebrate by hopping on the love bus hoping to meet their significant other. The Danes add some humour to their tradition by sending out an anonymous love note, the gaekkebrev, signed “from your valentine” along with white flowers called “snowdrops”.

Korea encourages love all year long on the 14th of every month with karaoke, black bean noodles, soju, silver rings, wine, movies, and homemade candies. They call it “12 days of love”.

Indians celebrate the month of love with great excitement, promises, and gifts. The week before the actual occasion, a majority of youngsters strictly follow what I call, “The Valentine calendar”. Each day signifies a unique way of expressing love. The week starts with roses followed by the proposal which is then topped up with chocolates, a teddy, a hug, and that magical kiss.

Picture this: standing on the Bridge of Sighs in Venice and the Gondola ride into the sunset with reflections of yellow lights capturing the perfect moment. A dream come true, isn’t it? This was my idea of an ideal way to celebrate the day of love.

Looking back at how my dad would wake me and my brother minutes before 12 pm, handing us a gift and saying, “This is for Mom. Hurry! Let’s go wish her a Happy Valentine’s Day;” made me realize hot air balloons, letting go of lanterns, and fancy dinner dates are not the only way to express love. The simple things matter the most like, the smile and happiness on Mom’s face when she opens the present and that cute little note addressed to her.

Quoting my favourite lyrics that Jax summarised so beautifully in her song, “I need a man who loves me like my father loves my Mom”.

Happy Valentine’s Day

Photo by Jill Wellington on Pexels

Dylan Meets: Eimear Noone, conductor &

Eimear Noone is an Irish conductor and composer best known for her award-winning work on video game music. She has conducted the Philadelphia Orchestra, the Royal Philharmonic, Orchestre National de Bretagne, the Sydney Symphony, the Danish National Symphony Orchestra, and several other national orchestras.

You have conducted so many orchestras, is there anything of which you are particularly proud?

What is your background and where did you go to school and college?

I went to my local national school St Gabriel’s in Kilconnell, Ballinasloe. I had excellent teachers, and it was Ms. Margaret Bleahene who picked me out when I was five years of age and told my parents that I should be a musician. I then went to Ardscoil Mhuire in Ballinasloe, followed by a year at Yeats College in Galway. During my time in secondary school, I was also attending the college of music in Dublin. I would take the train at 6 am on a Saturday to Dublin and attend music classes for the day. I subsequently studied music in Trinity College.

How did your love of music start for you, are there other members of your family involved in music?

It’s hard to find an Irish family who doesn’t have musical talent in it. My grandfather Joe Shea was a very good traditional musician, but other than that I didn’t come from a family of professional musicians. I always had a huge love of music. My first time on stage was aged four singing at St Cuan’s College in Castleblakeney, because my Aunt was at school there and she brought me out on stage to sing.

So many orchestra conductors are male, did you face adversity in your dream to enter a traditionally maleorientated career?

Yes, I think any woman in a profession that’s male-dominated and requires leadership is going to come up against some adversity, and yes, I’m no different. Things fortunately are improving and there are wonderful programmes to address the imbalance, like the Female Conductor Programme at the National Concert Hall in Dublin, which I’m proud to support. When I was starting up as a young conductor there was very little support and I had to make my own way really.

I’m proud of being able to travel the world as a musician and meet other orchestra members who I think as family and meeting extended family all over the world. I am very privileged to be able to make a living from music. I am also proud of being able to make history as the first women to conduct at the academy awards in 2020, but my proudest moment is fighting for the rights of pregnant women in the state of California.

You made history in 2020 at the 92nd Academy Awards when you became the first woman to conduct the orchestra at the Oscars. How was that experience for you? That experience was joyful and uplifting. My musical colleagues were the ones that appointed me to the position and that meant the world to me. The orchestra musicians are players that I would have worked with throughout my career in Los Angeles and I felt very supported and very much appreciative of my musical colleagues at that moment.

What was your experience like of conducting in a sold-out national concert hall in Dublin?

We were completely blown away by the response of the public and the press and by the amazing star musicians that supported us such as David Agnew, Frank McNamara, Treasa Lowe and Gabriel Byrne, who showed up to our first concert. We had a wonderful film director Ronan O’Leary who supported us throughout. I was overawed to see a full house at our first concert at the National Concert Hall. It really was such a memorable experience.

You have risen to prominence as a world-renowned conductor and composer This is a dream come through for you, did you work incredibly hard to get to this level?

Yes, myself and my colleagues in Ireland, Los Angeles and across the world worked incredibly hard. There were many obstacles and difficult situations along the way. I think Irish people have a great capacity for tenacity and have a wonderful work ethic.

Did the pandemic affect your work much?

Yes, absolutely it effected every musician on the planet. We were lucky we were

working on a film called ‘’Two by Two Overboard’’ at the time. Almost all of my concerts were cancelled except for places like Norway as they didn’t go into lockdown the way we did. Before my concert in Norway, I had to quarantine for a week just to work, but It was an extreme situation for every musician and thankfully now there are still concerts coming in on the books for 2024 that were supposed to happen in 2020. We were lucky we still worked during the pandemic on compositional projects but not every musician was so lucky. I think our appreciation for each other grew during the pandemic as we missed physically working with each other.

As well as conducting orchestras, do you also conduct music for video games and television?

Yes I conduct recording sessions all the time, either things that Craig and I have written or that colleagues have written. I have to say the least stressful work for me is being in the recording studio, and the interesting thing is when I am conducting for a recording session I generally don’t get to see the music. I go into a different headspace when conducting music that I have written as if the composer is somebody else.

You must work with a diverse group of people, has this allowed you the opportunity to travel worldwide?

Well the important thing about traveling for anybody is really getting to know people of different cultures and religions across the world. The one thing that comes from that is you simply realise how similar we all are, and the thing about music is it’s a great leveller. It’s all about what you can bring to the moment and something I appreciate about the music world for me is being able part to diversify across different types of music and bringing the orchestra together with RnB, video game music, rock music, traditional Irish music and all kinds of world music. I work and interact with Composers from China, Japan, and the United States. I have had the opportunity of working with people who are differently abled, people in the LGBTQ community and I have wonderful colleagues in the trans community, and for us it’s all about the music and what each individual can contribute in the moment. Once the music starts all you can feel is the spirit of colleagues around you.

Photo via Eimear Noone on Twitter

composer

Which do you prefer more, conducting live performances or composing music?

They’re completely different experiences, but the ultimate experience is conducting a live piece that you have written, and conducting it in a country that you hadn’t even imagined performing in. There is a piece I wrote called ‘’Malach, Angel Messenger’’ and in the choir part I have hidden some Irish words, but I have spelled them fanatically, so that if you read English, you can sing ag siúl le Dia (walking with God) and I have experienced that with a Chinese choir singing it in Irish, or a choir in the United States. So both have frustrations and both of them have a different magic but ultimately both have opened my mind in different ways.

You were in concert in June 2022 at the Royal Albert Hall. Is this an incredible place to perform and does it hold many memories for you?

I used to go to the Royal Albert Hall as a student for the proms on a cheap flight and queue for the cheap tickets. My Aunt Marian would on occasion buy me nice tickets so that I could get to the concerts that would have a small audience. I have great memories as a student of just being memorised at watching some of the greatest talent in the world at the Royal Albert Hall. I have got to perform there, and I am performing there again in 2023. It is an orchestra with great attitude, and I got to bring along Aisling McGlynn. a wonderful young Irish singer and give her a chance to be a soloist at the Royal Albert Hall. I love the Royal Albert Hall and to be there on its 150th anniversary year was special.

Out of all your outstanding career moments, which one stands out as the most interesting?

The Oscars really stand out because it was such an out-of-body experience, but I want to have a different answer for you every year. For now, it’s the academy awards and the Royal Albert Hall but next year who knows it might be something different.

What are your hobbies and interests, outside of music?

All my time for hobbies and interests are taken up but I do get to play video games with my kids.

Will you ever write a book on your life and the incredible successes you have had?

Yes, I think instead of it being more of an autobiography, it would be more about what musical life has taught me as a human being, and how that can be applied to other walks of life.

That basic witch; A guide to the occult

By Rachel Garvey

The occult; a word in which people have heard, but have little knowledge about. However, the individuals that have heard of the occult link it to people who have bad intentions; those who practice witchcraft and perform spells to cause harm to people, Satan worshippers and those who try to trick vulnerable people by playing with Ouija boards and Tarot cards to gain profit.

However, these rumours can be false because of how close-minded society can be on a subject they don’t have knowledge on, but have learned of in the past through the Salem witch trials and horror movies. The word means “mystical, supernatural or magical powers, practices or phenomena.”

Society needs to realise that the occult is all around them; take a walk-through Galway city and you’ll come across three crystal stores that house beautiful crystals and tarot cards, it’s in the libraries and bookstores who shelf the books on Witchcraft, Demonology and the supernatural. It’s even linked in with lighting candles and incense, a daily routine for some and completely innocent.

There was always an interest since I was young, the majority of my family members would ask me questions about ghosts, but my interest didn’t properly reach its full potential until 2019 when I lost my Nan and I plunged into a world of grief. I asked God again and again “Why did you have to take her from me?”, but I feel I’ll never get an answer. That grief turned to curiosity and I wondered if there was a life after death. I believed in that concept because I believed in ghosts, but I wanted to learn everything and anything I could find on the subject. Reading books about hauntings and ghosts not being able to cross over led me down the road of crystals. After purchasing my first rose quartz, deemed the crystal of love, my belief was validated as a few days later, I met the love of my life. Over

a year down the road, we are still happy together; I thank that crystal every day. As the months drew by, I amassed an army of crystals that would help with my mental health, bring good fortune and aid sleep.

Ed and Lorraine Warren, famous, but now deceased, became my idols. Ed Warren was a famous demonologist and Lorraine was a clairvoyant and their case work was shown in The Conjuring movie franchise. One course, numerous 100% scored assessments and a certificate later; I was thrilled to have knowledge of how to deal with demons whether they haunted a house or a person or attached itself to an object. When someone is attacked by another person, they can go to the guards, but who do they call when they’re attacked by something they can’t see?

We were taught that the occult was bad; witches were burned at the stake and tortured because they practiced healing using herbs and consorting with the devil and anything that went against God would be threatened with the thought of going to hell by churches.

I am proud to say that I am a student of the “dark arts”. I’m honoured to be studying demonology and searching abandoned locations for ghosts and even when I got my Baphomet tattoo and was sent a letter by a church that warned me to “drop it”, I wrote back saying how proud I was to be studying such material and that the church had zero influence in what I could or couldn’t put on my body. Drop it, they said. I will continue to pick up every bit of knowledge I can.

IN PASCAL WE TRUST?

By Fionn Sexton Connolly

Fine Gael sweetheart and Michael Noonan protégé Pascal Donohoe has admitted to breaching election donation regulations twice following a drawn-out saga. As the headaches mount for the government both domestically and internationally, it would be safe to assume that financial lynchpin Pascal Donohoe had all his paperwork squared away. If there is any government minister you can imagine doing paperwork with childlike glee, it would be him, so how does such a mistake happen? Easily, it seems.

The revelation that the Eurogroup president breached regulations in 2016 and 2020 is incredibly serious, as it shows us how vulnerable our system is to lobbying and corporate interests. Now with that said, is anyone really is surprised? The electorate aren’t fools; we know that politicians are not entirely sure of who is helping them as long as there is someone helping them. It is expected that any number of people try to lend a hand to a TD for any number of reasons, but if the numbers don’t add up, it tends to invigorate the opposition. With the Dáil in session once again following the Christmas break, many were expecting an almighty frontal assault on the government benches. The scandal had reached its second week by the time Pascal made his statement, but instead of it fermenting into a public relations bomb, it briefly illuminated the terrified faces of the opposition and fizzled out.

any plan of attack that they may have had. Take into consideration the ongoing court case in the Special Criminal Court involving a former Sinn Féin councillor who donated a significant sum to Mary Lou McDonald and the chances of Donohoe being forced out fall to zero.

There is the question of whether Donohoe has a moral duty to resign, as the previous coalition mar tyrs had to do, but it seems there is no appetite for this in Leinster House. No poli tician will call for the head of a senior minister over errors that could plague the books of many wan nabe ministers. It is hard to argue that Pascal Donohoe should be allowed to stay on as a minister because of how badly Fine Gael have done in their 11 years in power, but if his head should roll then it should be for something other than a set of errors in his SIPO returns. If someone was using a legal loop hole to avoid declaring their donations (looking at you, Mary Lou), then it is time to close the loop hole. Why

should not go over this, it would be reputationally disastrous for the president of the Eurogroup to resign over this during the worst financial crisis since 2008. The departure of Donohoe would spell doom for a coalition eying up the finish line after a tough period in government. As hard as it is to say this of the man: Pascal is a

There are conflicting sayings about publicity, but it is safe to say that any publicity surrounding the anti-establishment party acting exactly like the establishment, is bad. The revelations that there were errors in the records sent to the Standards In Public Office (SIPO) by Sinn Féin virtually annihilated

hasn’t it been closed already then? It is quite simple: This is not a bug, it’s a feature. Ireland has not left behind the wheel er-dealer antics of Haughey and Reynolds; it has just put them on a statutory footing to avoid unwanted attention. Pascal

“ If there is any government minister you can imagine doing paperwork with childlike glee, it would be him. The revelation that the Eurogroup president breached regulations in 2016 and 2020 is incredibly serious, as it shows us how vulnerable our system is to lobbying and corporate interests. Now with that said, is anyone really is surprised?

Public Domain via Wikimedia Commons

Look at me while I’m speaking to you

By Rachel Garvey

There are two sides to every story; the generation of the 90’s babies and the generation of the babies that were born in recent years and our grandchildren and great grandchildren won’t know who to believe in this social media-socialising war.

I come from the generation of 90’s babies – 1998 to be exact. Growing up was filled with outdoor days, horse-riding, and colouring books. However, when my attention turns to my two younger siblings, born in 2005 and 2009, it’s phones and phones and more phones. The conversations stem from TikTok. The majority of the time I sit there and shake my head at the videos I’m subjected to when I visit my parents’ house.

It starts with me asking “How was school today?” and their answer is often a shrug with their eyes attached to their screens.

It’s disheartening because I think that eye contact is very important when having a conversation with someone; not staring at them and unblinking like a Wednesday Addams, but general eye-contact. A conversation about non-social media subjects would be lovely over a cup of tea too.

I’m guilty as charged when it comes to spending a lot of time on my phone. We live in a house in the countryside where there’s little to no signal and our internet data suffers as a result. Being in a place where there is signal especially in the city, we take advantage and get caught up on who’s posting what or what messages didn’t come through in the no-signal-zone.

We’ve all done it; the looking straight at our screens when someone is in our company and trying to converse with us. We assure them we are listening, but in reality, it’s difficult to listen to the important details when your eyes skim through an Instagram feed.

The Tommy Tiernan Troubles

A friend of mine has this rule; whenever we’re in the car together as a group, there’s a ‘no phones allowed’ rule. Replying to a message is accepted, but overuse of our phones is frowned upon because socialising in person proves to be something that needs emphasising.

Personally, that rule is a favourite of mine. I once had a friend, yes, had a friend that constantly gave off to me for my mobile phone usage, but it was perfectly okay for her to be on hers all the time in my company. It drove me mad.

I see this in everyday life; groups of friends together, but none of them talk to each other because they’re all on their phones.

Couples in restaurants who don’t start eating their food straightaway because they need to capture their food at all camera angles and letting people know where they are through location.

People taking pictures of their friends only for them to tell them that it doesn’t look right and to take a better one through a different filter.

It’s all around us and creating a barricade over having genuine social interactions. My boyfriend and I keep our phones away while we’re in a restaurant and we slaughter our food when it’s brought to the table.

Sometimes we’ll take a nice picture of each other to capture a memory for our scrapbook, but when we’re together or in other’s company, we converse without a device in our hand.

It’s a problem – ongoing and growing – but the lesson we need to remember is; we can live without our phones for the times we socialise with other beings.

We genuinely can converse with others about general life subjects like college or work or hobbies as opposed to how many likes our pictures get on Instagram or how our snap scores grow every day, because social media shouldn’t hold a top spot in your life. The online world should not define your life. The online world should not control how you interact with people.

Your life should depend on the connections you make with people and that course you were thinking of taking in your extra time and not our follower count on apps that will surpass our lifetimes.

Social media; we need to minus the media and be social.

By Finnian Cox

Taxi company ‘Free Now’ has pulled its sponsorship of the Tommy Tiernan show amid criticism raised by activist Emer O’Neill regarding an alleged racist joke told in a vicar street gig last week.

Fellow RTÉ presenter and activist Emer O’Neill was at the show, and posted her disapproval of the joke. In an interview, Ms O’Neill spoke about the discomfort she felt as a person of colour, saying she “wanted the ground to swallow me up.”

The controversy has re-animated the unending debate about so-called cancel culture – is it a real thing or is this simply an example of calling out racism and dealing with it? A heated discourse has been happening on twitter, with a range of posts being made regarding Ms O’Neill, Free Now, and the joke.

Members of the far-right Irish Freedom Party have claimed Tiernan is a victim of the “woke mob.” Considering Mr Tiernan’s outspoken support of, and interviews with members of the LGBTQ+ community, this alleged martyrdom seems shallow in my eyes.

Whether this mob is real or not, the sponsorship that was pulled was a six-figure sum,

leading many to accuse the company of virtue signalling. In a statement, the taxi giant said that it was disappointed at the joke, as it works “in close partnership with taxi drivers throughout the country to provide an important transport service”.

Other commentors include Chair of the Irish Muslim council and former guest of the show, Dr Umar Al-Qadri, who said that Mr Tiernan is “an amazing being and one with a pure soul”, and that he found it unfair that he was receiving this treatment. Ms O’Neill said the apology that Tiernan made to her in private was powerful, and that she accepted it fully.

Despite this, Ms O’Neill has been subject to critical and in many cases abusive comments under her recent posts accusing her of attention seeking and encouraging cancel culture with the aim of personal gain. Considering her lack of attacks on Mr Tiernan himself however, and explanation of her reasoning, these claims seem unreasonable in my view.

Ms O’Neill said the apology that Tiernan made to her in private was powerful, and that she accepted it fully. Despite this, Ms O’Neill has been subject to abusive comments.

Photo by Aaron Burden on Pexels

Review: The Last of Us

By Steven Fox

A common problem that arises in adaptions of games to or television is in how much of the source material must be changed for it to fit into its new medium. This is an argument frequently made against adaptions of books to screen. The conventions of one medium do not necessarily transfer to the other, and so sometimes sequences have to be changed, or even outright removed. Thus so with games.

The Last of Us’ first episode gives the indication that it will buck this trend, and provide a title that could stand alone without leaning on the reputation of its source material. We will primarily focus on giving a snapshot of the strength of the opening half of the episode, as it provides a microcosm of its strengths that it will hopefully continue.

From the outset, the originals tone – a grim melancholy, interspersed with a constant threat – are maintained, primarily through the retaining of the original’s opening theme, Gustavo Santaolalla’s ‘The Last of Us’. As the tone is suggested, so can it be built upon.

Our opening scene provides a flashback to a chat-show from the 1960s. Two scientists are being interviewed on the possibility of humanity being wiped out by a pandemic-scale virus or infection. One of the scientists (Jon Hanna), posits his theory that, if

certain conditions were to change, such as the earth’s temperature increasing, then the real threat will be from something that cannot be counteracted by vaccines or other medicines: fungi.

As we cut forward to 2023, we follow our main characters, father and daughter Joel (Pedor Pascal), and Sarah (Nico Parker) through the day that their world’s collapsed. It starts small, the two eating breakfast on Joel’s birthday, and hearing about a significant event in Jakarta, Indonesia. They don’t really consider it newsworthy aside from Joel not knowing where or what Jakarta is.

Sarah travels to school, and on the way home stops off at a shop to have Joel’s watch fixed as his birthday present. As she stands in the shop, police cars and fire engines rush by, likely responding to an accident. As the shop owner fixes the watch, his wife runs out from the back room, speaking to him in panicked Arabic, and forcing Sarah out the door, telling her to go home as she locks the door.

By the time she returns home, the emergency services have been replaced by fighter jets flying overhead over her sleepy suburb towards the city of Austin, Texas. The stakes are obviously rising.

By 2am the next morning, Sarah awakes to explosions and shouting coming from the distance. What follows is a whirlwind escape with her father and uncle Tommy from the end of the world.

This is where the programme’s strength as an adaption is strongest: it builds a sense of terror, not through a constant threat of harm to our characters, but through an underlying and intangible sense danger. The high-octane drama of the end of the first half is only so effective because of this slow build.

To go into any more detail would be to spoil some of its finest moments, so suffice it to say, The Last of Us does well both as an adaption and as a stand-alone product. It is well worth a Monday evening.

The Last of Us airs on Sky Atlantic every Monday.

From the outset, the originals tone – a grim melancholy, interspersed with a constant threat – are maintained, primarily through the retaining of the original’s opening theme, Gustavo Santaolalla’s ‘The Last of Us’. As the tone is suggested, so can it be built upon.

Photo via Rotten Tomatoes

Active and Sportswear trends for 2023

By Shea Benson

Active and sportswear trends for 2023 are heavily influenced by the rise of “Athleisure,” a trend that blurs the lines between traditional gym clothing and casual wear. As a result, athletic apparel

The athletic wear industry is also seeing increased interest from Chinese consumers, with sales of athletic wear growing faster than luxury goods over the last five years.

Finally, streetwear apparel styles are becoming more popular, with more brands making unisex clothing in colour

sustainability, inclusivity, and the integration of fashion and function.

The athletic apparel industry is continuously evolving, with new trends emerging every year. The growth of the athleisure trend has led to a blurring of the lines between traditional gym clothing

their individual needs.

practices, is commendable. to grow in the future. Overall,

Minimalism in modern design: bland or tasteful

By Shea Benson

Minimalism in modern design has long been a controversial topic, with some praising its clean lines and simplicity, while others decry it as cold and lacking in personality. One trend that has come to symbolize this debate is the use of “greige” in interior design, art, and fashion.

Some argue that the use of greige is a sign of a lack of creativity and originality in modern design. The monochromatic colour scheme is often seen as a way to create a sense of uniformity and homogeneity, rather than individuality and uniqueness. In this way, it is seen as a reflection of the larger societal trend towards conformity and the rejection of individuality.

On the other hand, others argue that minimalism and the use of greige in design is a tasteful and sophisticated choice. The simplicity and clean lines of minimalism can be seen as a form of elegance and restraint. In this way, the use of greige can be seen as a way to create a sense of calm and serenity in a space. It can also be seen as a way to create a sense of timelessness, as the colour scheme is not tied to any specific era or trend.

One thing that is certain is that minimalism and the use of greige are not new trends. The modernist movement, which began in the

We live in a society.

By Suhasini Srinivasaragavan

We live in a world that is built off of complex and multifaceted relationships. With the introduction of the internet in the 1990s, human society, which was completely physical until then, permeated into the digital sphere. Now, a lot of us have digital relationships with friends and families, and para-social connections with influencers and celebrities.

With over four billion social media users across platforms (that is over half the total human population) we need to ask what the role of social media is in our lives. Is it an extension of our society? Or is it a gateway into a different one, one that mimics our preexisting views?

Social media does not prioritise you

Social media is foremost a business. A very lucrative one at that. These multi-billion dollar businesses profit off of curated advertisements shown to us through an often invasive analysis of our interests across media platforms.

Of course, the advent of social media had the unintentional side effect of connecting communities across continents. However, we often forget that these businesses did not set out to connect the world or enable

positive and wholesome mass communication for us. They set out to make money, and make money they do. Meta, the largest social media conglomerate owning the likes of Meta, WhatsApp and Instagram made close to 118 Million USD in gross revenue last year. Clearly, their priorities lie elsewhere.

Echo Chamber

We have several real-world examples of how social media exacerbates extremist views. Events like the capitol insurrection and growing right-wing extremism in Ireland are often facilitated through social media platforms. Research proves without doubt that social media affects our perceptions, preferences and attitudes.

early 20th century, was heavily influenced by minimalism and the use of monochromatic colour schemes. This is evident in the work of architects such as Le Corbusier and Mies van der Rohe, who sought to create a sense of simplicity and functionality in their designs.

However, it’s not hard to see why many people find minimalism and greige to be unappealing. The monochromatic colour schemes can be seen as cold and uninviting, lacking in warmth and character. Furthermore, the use of greige can be seen as a form of “design laziness”, as it is a way to make a space look put-together without having to put in the effort to choose colours and patterns. It also has been criticized for being too safe, not taking risks and not being bold enough with design.

Whether minimalism and the use of greige in design is seen as ugly or tasteful is a matter of personal opinion. It can be seen as a sign of a lack of creativity and originality, or it can be seen as a form of elegance and restraint. While minimalism can be seen as a way to create a sense of calm and serenity, it can also be seen as cold and uninviting. It’s not a question of right or wrong, but more of a matter of preference. Ultimately, it’s important to find a balance between simplicity and warmth, and to avoid using minimalism as a crutch to avoid making design decisions.

It is what you make of it

The goal of these businesses is to make you stay and keep wanting more, and they are willing to do anything it takes to get you to do that. However, once you understand how the medium works, you can manipulate it to work for you.

Connecting with family and friends, growing a brand, learning about your favourite topics and meeting people with similar interests, they are all possible using social media. Once you figure out your intention, just follow those pages, click on only what you want to see and in a few days, your ‘for you’ page will be curated to fan the flames of your newest hobbies.

Photo via Pexels

Photo via Pexels

M3gan: She’s not just a doll, she’s family

By Rachel Garvey

In the beginning, we battled with Chucky from the 80’s movie Child’s Play for the sake of our soul being kept in our human bodies. While we lay in bed, we were told tales of Mary Shaw and her ventriloquist doll, Billy from Dead Silence; when you see her in your dreams, be sure you never scream lest she’ll rip your tongue out.

The fight was far from over once Anabelle graced our cinema screens with her presence and her malevolent demonic attachment that linked itself to her doll-like vessel. Audiences love an intense kill doll movie; director and producer James Wan made sure of that when he introduced his new movie trailer for M3gan in late 2022. The film made its release in cinemas on Friday 13th January; a fitting day for a killer doll to cause chaos and death with Bella Poarch’s song Dolls as the trailer soundtrack.

The story follows a young girl, Cady, who recently lost her parents in a terrible accident and her aunt Gemma taking her in, but Gemma is unsure how look after a child: “I’m not equipped to look after a child, I don’t even look after my own plants”. However, a new project Gemma has been working on arouses the interest of Cady. A new addition is welcomed into the house; an Artificial Intelligence (AI) robot called Model Three Generative Android, M3gan for short. Completed with a beautiful beige dress and golden blonde wig, she’s a real-life Goldilocks to keep any harmful bears at bay as her given mission is to protect Cady from harm. She does just that, but in the wrong way and uses violence against those that cross her path and pose a threat to Cady.

James Wan’s film holds a message behind it; that AI robots could prove to be apart of our future and humans need to take great care when inventing these robotics as the results can go horribly wrong and prove fatal as seen in the movie. As a horror fanatic, it was easy to fall in love with M3gan and since the release of the movie, she has become an internet sensation with various people dressing up as her and performing her humorous dance moves as shown in the film. Famous actress Drew Barrymore dressed up as the doll on her show The Drew Barrymore Show.

A possible sequel is on the cards for the future, but has not been confirmed yet. The movie flows easily from one scene to the next and demonstrates how magnificent AI can be, but the dangers of it too when given free reign and deciding that their own primary user is themselves. The scenes where M3gan is involved prove to be beautiful, but unsettling as if she were a real human being and not a robot. She’s not just a doll, she’s family.

The enduring beauty of the cinema experience

By Darragh Nolan

I love going to the cinema by myself. I’ll admit that it’s partially because it makes me feel like Don Draper from Mad Men, his solo excursions to the downtown theatre an essential part of his creative process/work avoidance strategy.

To be totally honest, I don’t want to have to socialise while I’m trying to escape into two or three hours of immersive joy.

Mostly though, I just love films. And every Hollywood director who insists the cinema is where their art is supposed to be experienced is absolutely right. Film is meant to be taken in, enjoyed, adored on the big screen.

We’ve had a pair of blockbuster reminders of that fact in the past 12 months with Top Gun: Maverick and Avatar: The Way of Water raking it in at the box office. Both pictures broke the limits of what cinema is capable of and have been awarded with Best Picture nominations on top of their huge profits.

There’s simply no replacing the visual brilliance of films like this on the small screen. They’ll both join the streaming merry-go-round eventually but a home viewing won’t come close to replicating the rush of Maverick’s jets zooming by or The Way of Water’s stunning underwater world coming to life in 3D.

The majesty of the big screen goes beyond fighter jets and aliens at war, though. In truth it is the simpler things that matter most for the movie-goer. Having marvelled at the brilliance of The Banshees of Inisherin both in the cinema and via Disney+ I can safely say the former experience blew the latter away.

Perhaps lost amidst a picture boasting four Oscar nominated acting performances is the cinematography of Ben Davis (I will never forgive the Academy for nominating Elvis for Best Cinematography instead). Only on the big screen can his stunning wide shots capturing the hallowed beauty of the islands be not just seen, but really felt.

The visuals of Inis Mór and Achill Island marry perfectly with Carter Burwell’s haunting score (which, mercifully, received a deserved Best Original Score nod) and establish an eery atmosphere through which the entire film can be fully embraced.

Whacking Banshees on the telly will give you some semblance of it and there’s no denying it is a film driven largely by its stellar cast. But if you haven’t seen it in all its glory, have you really seen it?

Whether it’s thrill-a-minute action or the mythical lull of an Irish island the cinema is the place to see it. It is a pilgrimage, the buying of tickets and popcorn is ritual, the viewing nothing short of hours of miraculous apparition.

Remember the first time you saw Schindler’s List? Remember how it felt when the little girl in the red coat appeared on screen?

Blow that moment up on to a 50-foot screen with full surround sound. That’s cinema.

No Time to Die calls Prime Video home these days but what I’ll remember is bursting into tears as a man synonymous with my childhood, Daniel Craig’s 007, reached the end of his 15-year journey. That’s another great thing about going to the cinema alone. There’s no one there next to you to see you weep over the death of a fictional secret agent.

Photo via Rotten Tomatoes

The most anticipated albums of 2023

By Scott Stephens

It’s not even February and there is already new music coming out. Sam Smith, Måneskin, and Mac DeMarco have all released albums and we’re barely into the new year.

As the album cycle picks up again there’ll be much more music to enjoy. That said, let’s see what some of the most anticipated albums of 2023 are.

Lana Del Rey: Did You Know That

There’s a Tunnel Under Ocean Blvd Del Rey’s long titled ninth studio album has already been teased with the title track. The reception of the song certainly makes it an album to be excited for. That, and the long list of features including Bleachers, Jon Batiste, and Father John Misty.

Producer Jack Antonoff will also be helping Del Rey, his third time producing an album with the singer-songwriter. The full project will be available from 24 March.

Stevens, and also a world tour.

They have released the lead single “Tropic Morning News” which Aaron Dessner has said was a “turning point” for the band: “everything suddenly felt like it was coming alive again”. First Two Pages of Frankenstein will be released on 28 April.

Paramore: This Is Why

Following an almost six-year break Paramore are back with their sixth album on February 10. They have already announced a world tour and released three singles, including the title track. Hayley Williams first hinted at a new Paramore album in 2020, saying their next album would

Gorillaz: Cracker Island

The virtual band makes a return on February 24 with their eighth studio album. Multiple tracks, including the title track, were originally intended to be used for a second season of Gorillaz’ web series Song Machine but it was decided the band would make a new album instead. We have already been teased with five singles which included interesting features with artists like Tame Impala and Bootie Brown but there are many more interesting guests we are yet to hear. These include collaborations with Bad Bunny, Beck, and Stevie Nicks. As is usual with Gorillaz, it will be fascinating to see how the band brings together all these different artists together on the full album.

boygenius: the record

The supergroup, consisting of Phoebe Bridgers, Lucy Dacus, and Julien Baker,

The National: First Two Pages of Frankenstein

With many of the band members embarking on solo projects or other works, The National have been relatively quiet since the release of their 2019 album I Am Easy to Find. Now they are back with a full-length album packed with famous features including Taylor Swift and Sufjan

be more “guitar-driven”, and it seems Williams’ prophecy has come true if the teaser tracks are anything to go by.

An album born out of the pandemic, This Is Why seems like it will be inspired by its results, as Williams says you would think “that humans would have found it deep within themselves to be kinder or more empathetic” after COVID.

are following up their self-titled EP with their debut full length album. In the five years since the boygenius EP all three artists have released their own solo albums. And now, the trio have announced their album debut, along with three singles where the members take one turn as the lead each. the record will be available on 31 March.

“ The National have released the lead single ‘Tropic Morning News’ which Aaron Dessner has said was a ‘turning point’ for the band.”

Five Lesbians Eating a Quiche: Review

By Lisa Hamilton

I was lucky enough to see the dress rehearsal of DramSoc’s first show of the semester, Five Lesbians Eating a Quiche before it opened to packed audiences for its three-night run on the 24th of January. This production was directed excellently by Adam O’Connor, a staple figure in the UG DramSoc scene and starred Saorla Fenton (Vern), Tara Mackin (Dale), Honor Faughnan (Ginny), Molly Fahy (Wren) and Emma Greaney (Lulie).

Written by Evan Linder and Andrew Hobgood, this play is set in 1956 and centres on the “widows” of The Susan B. Anthony Society for the Sisters of Gertrude Stein on the day of their annual quiche breakfast where the main motto is “no men, no meat, all matters”. What started as an idyllic day sampling the best quiches in town turns to disaster when, just as the winning quiche is announced to the gathered ladies in the community centre, sirens erupt warning of an Atomic bomb strike which leads to the sealing of exits out of the centre. Now facing the possibility that they are the only ones left after the world has ended, facades drop, secrets are revealed, and the ladies all realise what they all have in common, apart from loving quiche, of course!

This immersive theatre experience began the second you entered the Bank of Ireland Theatre with the “widows” themselves greeting and assigning a name to each audience member who became the other society members present in the community centre. The energy in this production was absolutely electric. The continuous breaking of the fourth wall between the cast and the audience was one of the best I’ve seen in a production. It made us all feel like we were an integral part of the story, which, in my case, made me even more invested in the story and the quirky characters. The plot itself was odd in premise but hilariously brought to life by a talented cast who nailed their parts with such wit and comedic flair that had the audience members cackling with laughter throughout. There was nothing I could fault in this production, and I want to commend the cast, crew and director on an incredible production that has kicked off semester two drama in this university with a bang.

Photos by Lisa Hamilton

Tara Mackin as Dale Saorla Fenton as Vern Molly Fahy as Wren

Honor Faughnan as Ginny

Emma Greaney as Lulie

Sigerson Cup

After a tough battle that saw missed opportunities, questionable decisions from match officials and 20 minutes of extra time, last year's Sigerson cup champions the University of Galway, lost out on a place in the 2023 Sigerson semi-finals to the UL Wolves GAA squad.

Photos by Lisa Hamilton

IRFU Rugby League

The women from the University of Galway WRFC started off their College cup campaign strong with a win over league winners SETU Carlow with a final score of 27-10.

Photos by Lisa Hamilton

Kay Bowen Cup

The University of Galway WRFC hosted the Kay Bowen Cup, which saw six other university squads, including UCD, DCU, UL, Trinity College, Ulster University and Queens University, travel to Dangan Sportsgrounds to compete in a spirited inter-college competition. The day saw a great display of rugby and ended with two finals; one for the shield between the host club UG WRFC and UL; the second for the cup between DCU and UCD. Eventually, DCU and UL were crowned victors, with Kay Bowen presenting her namesake trophy and the competition shield to the winning teams.

Photos by Lisa Hamilton

Fitzgibbon Cup

On the 25th of January, the University of Galway squad took on SETU Waterford in Dangan Sportsgrounds in the latest round of the Fitzgibbon Cup. After an electric clash of the ash, the University of Galway side goes into the next round with a brilliant win under their belts. The final score was 2-23 1-13.

Photos by Lisa Hamilton

Mhaolagáin Cup

After a tough battle, a strong SETU Waterford side overpowered the UG Junior camogie team in round 3 of the Purcell Cup to finish with a final scoreline of 2-11 – 0-3.

Photos by Lisa Hamilton

Teddy Bear Clinic

Sláinte Soc hosted their popular Teddy Bear clinic in the Bailey Allen Hall on the 27th and 28th of January which saw hundreds of Galway school children visit with their bears to learn about healthcare and medicine in a child friendly way. Many tiny, smiling faces left campus with their bears’ ailments addressed and any injuries expertly x-rayed and bandaged by the wonderful team of volunteer nursing and medicine students.

Photos by Lisa Hamilton

Five apps for meditation newbies

By Roshni Dsouza

When the world keeps going, sometimes we need to stay still. But that’s difficult if we keep going with the world. Human beings are not robots. We need routines, we need to break these routines, and we need to bring them back to break them again. But oftentimes, that’s not possible. The world will keep going, and we are expected to move along with it. If we don’t, people around us are often worried there might be something wrong with us.

Meditation is a way to break the momentum. It requires us to sit still and forces our brain to stop thinking, stop feeling, and just stay still in one position. It’s like when a moving train arrives at it’s destination and remains there for a few minutes before moving again. We don’t, however, have access to resources for meditation all the time, and so might not be able to attend meditation classes or other places of meditation when we are free. This is where meditation apps come in.

Here is some of the apps you could use for meditating:

1. Insight app

This app has podcasts and playlists that help you meditate. There are also playlists that help you sleep. The podcasts are made by licensed practitioners in meditation.

2. Headspace

If you are like me and go to the same internet I go to, you’ve probably seen advertisements of this app multiple times. There’s probably an orange animated character you recognise who illustrates how the app helps in meditation. If you have seen those ads but didn’t know if the app was any good, I’m here to tell you it is. It not only helps with meditation and sleep, it also has videos on how to set boundaries, how to reduce anxiety and the likes. I must, however, let you know that the app is subscription based. There are premium features to be unlocked by paying around €4 a month.

3. Calm app

The Calm app is similar to the other two I mentioned, and most of the meditation videos are under premium subscription. But it also has playlists that will energise you. Sometimes our minds get too calm, and we need a bit of an energy boost that isn’t stress-induced. This app can help you there.

4. Smiling Mind

This app has specialised content for healthcare workers and educators. It is completely free of cost, so you have access to all their content.

5. Healthy Minds

Neuroscientist Dr Richard Davidson founded this app. The motive is to help you meditate and reduce anxiety through four pillars: Awareness, Connection, Insight and Purpose. All four have different types of sessions that help you keep calm and reflect.

Six tips for a healthier sleep

By Beyza Koç

As we start the second semester, you might have set your new year’s resolution on maintaining a healthier sleep routine. Some of us are morning birds and some unlucky souls (such as myself) have night owl tendencies. If you identify with the second group, I’ve got bad news: the system is not made for us and neither is our body. But don’t worry, I have some great tips on how you can get that healthy sleep anyway.

1. Set regular times for sleep.

This might sound impossible for all the last-minute-assignment hustlers like me but just like any other appointment, you need to stick to your schedule. It is important to be realistic because each body has different sleeping needs. For some, six hours might work perfectly, for others that can be extended to 7-8 hours. Consistency is key here. This also means waking up at the same time every day.

2. Reduce screen time before you go to sleep.

This might be a shocker (irony off), but it is true. The guilty pleasure to scroll on Instagram or watch one last episode before going to sleep might sound fun but it affects our sleep routine immensely. Apparently when we are exposed to blue light, the brain sends signals to stop the production of melatonin, the so-called sleep hormone. Instead, try to find other habits before bed: brushing your hair, reading a chapter, or doing skin care, you can get creative here, as long as you create a routine that helps your brain to prepare for sleep.

3. Come to rest.

There is a difference between rest and sleep. Just because our bodies eventually give up, that doesn’t mean our minds do rest as well. Especially in stressful times, try to get rid of negative and

burdensome thoughts. This might look different for everyone: some might meditate or pray, journal, do yoga, or even count sheep. As long as you find something to calm your mind, you do you.

4. Adapt your sleep setting.

Reducing light and noise is probably something you already know. To spice that up, you could put on candles for a good smell (don’t forget to blow them out) or open the window to get fresh air. An ideal sleep temperature is between 15-19°C. A clean bedroom also helps to relax and get cosy.

5. Pay attention to your diet and fitness.

We love a late-night snack, don’t we? Unfortunately, it doesn’t help our sleeping hygiene. Stop eating two hours before you go to sleep. Avoid nicotine, caffeine and alcohol and exercise regularly during the day but not shortly before bed. Physical activity helps to get a deeper sleep. A hot shower afterward can be helpful as well.

6. Exposure to bright light during the day.

The best time to take a power nap is when the sun is at its highest (approximately between 11-13). I know what you are thinking, (how the heck does that work?) but studies prove that short naps (max. 30 min.) during the day improve vigilance, cognitive function, and memory consolidation. It is also proven that those who are exposed to bright sunlight during the morning hours have a better night sleep.

Don’t worry if some of these tips might not work for you. If you suffer from insomnia the fear of staying awake can actually maintain the problem. Just keep in mind that even though sleeping disorders can be frustrating, they are not impossible to overcome.

Photo by Alison McHugh

Pray upon a crystal

By Rachel Garvey

Welcome to this little, but beautiful crystal cor ner where colour comes alive, and feelings of doubt and anxiety vanish in the first touch of tumbled beauty. There is undying scepticism surrounding the work of crystals because the cynical minds think it’s only just a rock. However, the open minds who welcome in belief and faith use crystals for healing purposes, meditation and mindfulness. A random rock would even suffice as long as you focus the energy you’re wanting on that particular stone; a positive energy. I was open-minded when I first started collecting crystals and learning about them; purchasing one at a time and in that first purchase I found out just how magical they can be.

Rose Quartz

A quick visit to Amber just off Francis Street in Galway led me to purchasing my first ever crys tal; a visit I will remember forever. The Rose Quartz is known as the crystal of love. Its appearance symbolises the colour of love; a beautiful pink with a tint of transparency. The crystal is meant to bring you self-love, to teach you that you should love your worth and to bring love into your life. At this time, I felt low and alone and while holding the crystal, I sent as much positive love-filled energy as I could into it. Approximately four days later, I matched with the love of my life and it’s now been over a year and four months that we’ve been together; happy and in love. I thank that crystal for bringing me the one.

cluster shape almost resembles glass. As someone who deals with bad acne and oily skin that never seems to let up; I learned that this gem teaches you to find beauty in your imperfections, flaws and weaknesses. Perhaps my imperfections are a part of who I am. Perhaps that’s okay. It takes time and practice to love what you don’t love about yourself, but this crystal is a patient aid. It also acts as a guard against negative influences which is why I always have it on my altar at home; to keep the positive and drive away negative.

Bloodstone

I love to describe this crystal’s appearance as a drop of blood; essentially like a haemoglobin droplet. I have these miniature bags of crystals that were put together, each with different headings on it; crystals for healing, crystals for emotional balance and so on. The bloodstone fits into my creative aid bag as it is believed to improve creativity, decision-making and intuition. The gem holds a healing property too, a rather fitting one; helping to purify the blood and clear away toxins that may be harmful.

This crystal’s appearance fits in with its name like a glove; the stone is white-grey with tiny black polka-dots to resemble a live Dalmatian dog. However, the appearance and name have nothing to do with dogs except for the fact that both dogs and the stone are support tools through stress as well as bringing tranquillity and making you feel whole again. Stress is a destructor and it breaks you down into pieces, but this gem will keep all of that negative energy at bay and keep you together. This spotty one is meant to strengthen your connection with Mother Earth; a countryside walk surrounded by fields and trees while holding this crystal will have you feeling like you’re in sync with the swaying of tree branches.

Unicorn points

This crystal is a unique one in terms of its name and image; vertical and colourful to resemble a unicorn’s horn. Its shine resembles a mirror as when you look really closely at it, you can see your reflection in it; holding it up to a light bulb will have it shining to say hello. The gem is taught to keep you grounded; anxiety and panic attacks better watch out. The unicorn point also aids one in feeling protected and brings about joy with its sense of magic due to the history of unicorns being depicted as mythical and magical creatures.

Dalmatian Jasper

Photos by Rachel Garvey

An Fóram Oideachais

18:00-19:00

Wednesday 8th February

Dé Céadaoin 8 Feabhra

The Space upstairs in Áras na Mac Léinn

More information from

Tuilleadh eolais le fáil ó

su.eduation@universityofgalway.ie

Everyone is welcome! • Fáilte roimh chách!

By Caoimhe Looney Health & Lifestyle Editor

Valentine’s Day is a holiday that comes around once every year. For some the holiday is about spending time with the ones you love, for others it’s about the discounted chocolate the day after, but the day also has another really great tradition; companies releasing cute limited edition items! Here’s a quick guide to some of the highlights, from makeup to shoes, that you don’t want to miss out on.

1. The MAC Valentine’s Day collection 2023.

For Valentine’s Day this year Mac are redesigning some of their best classic lipsticks into new limited edition pink cases with hearts. There are four shades: ‘Lady Danger’; ‘Relentless Leslie Red’; ‘Tropic Tonic’; ‘Chile’. They are also releasing some of their Glowplay Lip Balms in the same limited edition cases, along with two brand new limited edition shades. The new shades

Limited edition Valentine’s Day collections

are called ‘Bouncing Bloom’ and ‘Rose to the Occasion’.

2. Converse Valentine’s Day collection 2023

Converse are another brand who are releasing limited edition pairs of shoes just for Valentine’s Day this year. They have four new pairs, which come with a range of red embroidered hearts and Valentine’s Day-inspired patterns. The favourite for me are the Converse Chuck Taylor all star move platform hearts. The shoes come in both adults and children’s sizes, with original style converse and a platform style. These are ones that footwear fans shouldn’t miss out on.

3. Pat McGrath Valentine’s Day 2023: Love Collection

For eyeshadow lovers, Pat McGrath is releasing three limited edition eyeshadow palettes in his Valentine’s collection this year. There are three palettes as part of the collection: Velvet Liaison; Sublime Seduction; Iconic Infatuation. Velvet Liaison is Pat McGrath’s first all matte palette, while

Iconic Infatuation comes with a range of pink shades, perfect for that Valentine’s look.

4. Nike Valentine’s

Day 2023 edition

The Nike Valentine’s Day collection features unique editions of the Air Force 1, Air Max 90, Dunk Low, Air More Uptempo, and the Air Trainer 1. Each pair comes in red and pink colour tones. The Air Force 1 seems to be the star of the show with embroidered cherries on the sides and featuring pink and red hearts throughout.

5. LEGO Valentine’s Day 2023

Every year LEGO releases new limited-edition Valentines sets, and they are always a massive hit. Between LEGO flower bouquets and cute heart ornaments, they serve as long lasting decorations for your home. These LEGO sets are a great buy for both yourself or for a partner and the quality time you spend together while making the set is just an added bonus! The best part is the low price for the sets, making this the most affordable limited edition item in this guide.

Background: MAC Valentine’s Day collection, photo via MAC Cosmetics. Below, clockwise from left: Nike Valentine’s Day 2023 edition, photo via Nike; Converse Valentine’s Day collection 2023 photo via Converse; Lego Valentine’s Day 2023, photo via Lego; and Pat McGrath Valentine’s Day 2023: Love Collection, photo via Pat McGrath

Skincare for sensitive skin

By Roshni Dsouza

Sensitive skin is often a result of genetics. Other times it is caused by our diet or sleeping patterns (which most times are out of our control). Yet another reason could be your outer environment. Finding the right product for sensitive skin is hard. It’s especially bothersome when you’re trying to treat a skin condition using a particular product but it either makes the condition worse or creates a new one altogether.

When it comes to skincare, the most important thing is to look for ingredients in the product rather than the product itself. Patch-testing (using some of it on a portion of your skin to see if there’s any reaction) is important, too, especially if you have sensitive skin.

1. The Inkey List Oat Cleansing Balm

Face cleansers have the tendency to strip your pores and break the skin barrier depending on their ingredients. This is especially true for water-based cleansers. Too much water on sensitive skin can harm the barrier. Oil-based cleansers like The Inkey List Oat Cleansing Balm serve as a better option. Oats help reduce inflammation which causes redness. It is a fragrance-free product, too, which is a bonus.

2. Avene Tolerance Control Soothing Skin Recovery Cream

Most of the moisturisers that you use would have products that might help other skin types in getting plump, hydrated skin. But for sensitive skin, it is better to have a moisturiser with minimal products so there’s little to no chance of your skin being irritated. The Avene Tolerance Control

4. Benton Deep Green Tea Toner

This K-beauty product is mostly just green tea, which is a great ingredient for sensitive skin. It contains polyphenols which soothe inflammatory skin. The good part about the Benton Deep Green Tea Toner is that it is so non-sticky, you can apply multiple layers of it.

5.

Missha Meditanical Calendula Toner

Calendula is a type of marigold flower. While it does help with itching and soothes the skin, it also boosts collagen production. Although it is very effective for healing redness and irritation, however, it takes a bit of time with it.

These products work best for sensitive skin, or even for skin that for some reason is itchy or irritated. Keep in mind you don’t need to wash your face with a cleanser or use multiple products if you have sensitive skin. Less is more.

Soothing

Skin Recovery Cream is very basic. It has a short list of ingredients, which means it does the job of moisturising without much effort.

3. Purito Centella Unscented Serum

Centella is a plant found in Asian countries. It was used in Ancient India and China to heal skin conditions. Purito as a brand always has minimal ingredients and their top ingredient mostly tends to be centella instead of water (which a lot of products have that can irritate the skin). The Purito Centella Unscented Serum would help calm down irritation and restore the skin barrier.

Top: Benton Deep Green Tea Toner, photo via K-Beauty; bottom: Missha Meditanical Calendula Toner, photo via Calypso

Dhá thionscnamh seolta le haghaidh an Ghaeilge labhartha a spreagadh sa gcathair.

Sheol Méara na Gaillimhe, an Comhairleoir Clodagh Higgins, dhá thionscnamh nua leis an aidhm méadú a chur ar an méid Gaeilge labhartha i gcathair na Gaillimhe.

Ag preasócáid a bhí ar súil in Ollscoil na Gaillimhe le déanaí, cuireadh fáilte roimh na suaitheantais, atá deartha ag Ollscoil na Gaillimhe, rud a dhéanfaidh easca do Ghaeilgeoirí a chéile a aithint. An dara togra ná, An tEolaire – Seirbhís i nGaeilge, liosta de na gnólachtaí agus de na heagraíochtaí sa gcathair atá in ann seirbhís i nGaeilge a chur ar fáil.

Seoladh na tograí seo mar chuid de Phlean Teanga do Chathair na Gaillimhe. Dúradh go mbeidh ról lárnach ag na tograí chun stádas mar, “Baile Seirbhíse Gaeltachta” a bhaint amach do Ghaillimh.

Dúirt Uachtarán Ionaid agus Meabhránaí na hOllscoile, an tOllamh Pól Ó Dochartaigh, go gcuideoidh an tionscnamh seo le haghaidh, “…freastal níos fearr agus níos leithne a dhéanamh ar phobal Gaeilge na hOllscoile’ mar go léireodh na suaitheantais ‘a mhéad daoine atá ag obair ar fud na hOllscoile a bhfuil ar a gcumas agus atá sásta seirbhísí a chur ar fáil i nGaeilge.”

Ag caint ar an dara togra, dúirt Cathaoirleach Gaillimh le Gaeilge, Bernadette Mullarkey, go raibh 64 gnó agus eagraíocht liostáilte san Eolaire agus go raibh 96 duine cláraithe ann faoi láthair ó réimsí earnálacha sa gcathair.

D’iarr sí ar ghnólachtaí agus eagraíochtaí le Gaeilge clárú le bheith san Eolaire, “Mholfainn d’aon duine atá in ann seirbhís i nGaeilge a chur ar fáil, é sin a chur in iúl do ‘chuile dhuine’ trí chlárú le Gaillimh le Gaeilge inniu.”

Beidh eolas maidir le himeachtaí Gaeilge a bheidh ag tarlú sa gcathair le fáil san Eolaire freisin.

Tá súil ag Gaillimh le Gaeilge a bheith ag comhoibriú le Ollscoil na Gaillimhe ar chomhfhiontair straitéiseacha fhéideartha eile sa todhchaí.

Bríd Ní Chonghóile, Príomhfheidhmeannach Ghaillimh le Gaeilge, Uachtarán Ionaid agus Meabhránaí Ollscoil na Gaillimhe, an tOllamh Pól Ó Dochartaigh, Cathaoirleach Ghaillimh le Gaeilge, Bernadette Mullarkey, Méara Chathair na Gaillimhe, An Comhairleoir Clodagh Higgins agus Caroline Ní Fhlatharta, Oifigeach na Gaeilge, Ollscoil na Gaillimhe, ag seoladh suaitheantais nua atá deartha ag Gaeilge Ollscoil na Gaillimhe agus ‘An tEolaire – Seirbhís i nGaeilge’ togra de chuid Ghaillimh le Gaeilge ag preas ócáid in Ollscoil na Gaillimhe le déanaí.

le cainteoirí Gaeilge in earnáil na méain: Poist le fáil gan aon taithí.

Géarghá

Tá easpa Gaeilgeoirí in earnáil na meáin. Sin é a bhí le rá ag Rhiann Flemming atá ag Obair le Fíbín Media, mar Léiritheoir agus Oifigeach Gaeilge.

Bhí ócáid intéirneacht agus poist do chéimithe ar siúl in Ollscoil na Gaillimh ag deireadh na míosa seo caitheadh agus bhí Fíbín Media i láthair ann.

Dúirt Rhiann go bhfuil “bearna mór meilteach” in earnáil na meán ó thaobh daoine le Gaeilge a fháil agus gur é sin an deacracht is mó a bhíonn ag an gcomhlacht.

Léirigh sí an tábhacht a bhaineann leis na postanna taobh thiar den cheamara. Dúirt sí go bhfuil agus go mbíonn go leor daoine ag iarraidh a bheidh ós comhar an cheamara ach níl móra a bhíonn ag iarraidh a bheidh taobh thiar de, go háirithe iad siúd a bhíonn tar éis céim a bhaint amach.

Nuair a cuireadh an cheist, “An bhfuil nó an mbeidh postanna ann (in earnáil na meáin) sna todhchaí?”

D’fhreagair sí ag rá go mbíonn Fíbín Media ag cuardach daoine le Gaeilge i gcónaí. Luaigh sí go mbeidh an comhlach ag earcú 15 duine as seo go dtí deireadh na bliana.

Cuid de na rólanna atá á líonadh acu ná: léiritheoirí, innealtóirí fuaime, ceamaradóirí, eagarthóirí agus scríbhneoirí scripte.

Chomh maith le sin dúirt sí nach bhfuil taithí riachtanach le cur isteach ar an bpost, an rud is tábhachtaí ná go mbeadh Gaeilge ag an iarrathóir.

Ceist eile a cuireadh uirthi ná, cén chaoi a bhfuil sé i gceist ag an gcomhlach dul san iomaíocht le na seirbhisí sruthú ar nós Netflix?

An freagra a chur sí ar seo ná, nach bhfuil aon phlé déanta maidir leis an bealach is fearr le haghaidh a bheidh ar an gcaighdeán céanna le Netflix. Ach, go mbeidh cláracha nua ag dul amach ar RTÉ go luadh. Dúirt sí go mbeidh na cláracha sin ag dul amach go laethúil agus go mbeidh siad le fáil ar seinnteoir RTÉ chomh maith. Rud a dhéanann easca é, mar a dúirt sí féin, “Binge watching” a dhéanamh orthu, an bealach nua a breathnaíonn duine ar chláracha.

Ceann de cláracha a bhí sí ag déanamh tagairt dó ná Simon Says. Beidh an clár seo le feiceáil ar RTÉ Junior ón 6ú lá de mhí Feabhra.

Luaigh sí go bhfuil tóir ar na cláracha trí Ghaeilge a léiríonn siad agus go mbaineann gasúir an-sásamh astú.

Hugh Gavin’s journey to becoming a “Weigan”

By Ciarán Ó Flaithearta Sports Co-editor

“That’s always been the big dream but, I suppose your dreams change when I was 12 and 13 all I wanted to be, was a Wegian.”

The U20 Six Nations gets underway this month and among the up-and-coming young prospects representing Ireland is Galwegians own Hugh Gavin.

The 19-year-old Salthill native began playing rugby in Crowley Park at the age of six and his love for the sport grew from there. Hugh played the age group above his own for the first couple of years under coaches Mickey Sherlock, Gerry Lowry and Gary Gilanders.

He credits his dad and former club captain Barry Gavin for his success and that of his teammates.

“That coaching panel were really good for the club with so many of us going up and playing with the seniors and even playing provincial it’s a real credit to the coaches.”

Gavin impressed at the underage level, earning himself a spot in the Connacht development squads before going to the next step representing the province in the U17 squad against Munster.

The following year, Gavin progressed into the Connacht U18s Inter Pro squad, where he began to flourish: “the first taste of a more professional environment and I really enjoyed that, I took to that and then I got my first Inter Pros start against Ulster.”

HOT MEALS

Saturday from a young age and to finally run out myself in front of the fans and the club legends when the club means so much to them, it’s nice to get out and do your bit for the team.”

While most 19-year-olds are enjoying college life, Gavin is making sacrifices to ensure he can put his “best foot forward”. With training four days a week in the Connacht academy, the first-year Commerce student says it can be difficult to balance rugby and college work, but he always finds time for his mates.

“You obviously have to give up a lot of the night Iife and you’re early to bed most nights but apart from that I see my mates the days I’m in college and weekends.

“It’s just the weekday stuff you can’t be at and you can’t be getting a takeaway with the lads the whole time.”

Since being selected for the U20s squad, Gavin has been training hard at different camps all over the country. With great strength in depth, Gavin believes the squad is reaping the benefits of healthy competition: “we’ve all been getting better week

University of Galway Mystics triumph over Limerick Sport Huskies to lift InsureMyHouse.ie U20 Women’s National Cup

University of Galway Mystics 97–48 Limerick Sport Huskies

Via Basketball Ireland

University of Galway Mystics claimed the InsureMyHouse.ie U20 Women’s National Cup with a comprehensive 97-48 win over Limerick Sport Huskies at the National Basketball Arena.

Captain Kara McCleane delivered a polished performance with 19 points, eight rebounds, seven assists and five steals, which saw her handed the MVP.

All eight of the University of Galway Mystics squad are playing in the MissQuote.ie Super League and that experience certainly told. Kara McCleane and Hazel Finn also played with Ireland’s U20’s at last summer’s FIBA U20 Women’s European Championship and they were influential in sparking a 49-28 half-time lead, with 16 and 12 points respectively by the break.

Limerick Sport Huskies started with an early 4-0 lead, thanks to baskets from Sophie Moore and Hannah Cremin, before Hazel Finn got going, scoring all six of University Galway Mystics’ opening points, to edge them in front 6-5.

Abbie Pigott got Limerick Sport Huskies back ahead 7-6, before a 16-point run by Paul O’Brien’s team put them in control and they never looked back and led 28-12 by the end of the first.

The second quarter followed the same vein, with University of Galway Mystics in the ascendancy. A three-point jump shot from Pigott in the fourth minute saw Limerick Sport Huskies reduce the deficit to 11 points, 33-22. But Mystics kept their opponents at arms-length and were 21 points ahead by half-time, 49-28.

University of Galway Mystics’ scoring threat was evenly spread throughout the

team; Ava McCleane hit two from the threepoint line in the third quarter and scored eight points in the quarter, while Maedhbh O’Brien had 7 points and Emma Glavin 6 points to hand them a 79-36 lead going into the final quarter. O’Brien and Emma Glavin would post game totals of 20 and 16 points.

Limerick Sport Huskies kept plugging away, Cremin picked up seven points in the final quarter to bring her to a teamhigh 13, but it was to be University of Galway Mystics’ Day.

After the game, Mystics’ head coach Paul O’Brien said “We had six players in double figures, they were fantastic, and they have been fantastic all year. I have to say thanks to the clubs they have come from.

“You look at Tullamore here, the amount of fans they have here brought down, where Ellie and Emma [Glavin] and Maedhbh [O’Brien] are from. Titans, Kara and Ava [McCleane] and Aoibhinn [Walsh] and Moycullen and Maree, so thanks to all of them for trusting us with them at this stage in their careers.

“The players have been great all year and Super League experience definitely stood to them. Huskies are a very, very good team as well, I think that we just had that little bit more physicality from that Super League experience that we’ve had this year. Credit to them for making the final and we’re just delighted to win.”

Teams

University of Galway Mystics: Hazel Finn, Kara McCleane, Aoibhinn Walsh, Caoimhe O’Sullivan, Ellie Glavin, Ava McCleane, Emma Glavin, Maedhbh O’Brien.

Top scorers: Hazel Finn (20), Maedhbh O’Brien (20), Kara McCleane (19), Emma Glavin (16), Ellie Glavin (12).

Limerick Sport Huskies: Hannah Cremin, Keira Shyne, Jessica O’Shea, Bronagh Dollard, Emilie Hamel, Emma O’Sullivan, Sara Brazil, Sophie Moore, Niamh Fahy, Abbie Pigott.

Top scorers: Hannah

Cremin (13), Sophie Moore (10), Abbie Pigott (8), Jessica O’Shea (5), Sara Brazil (5).

InsureMyHouse.ie Under 20 Women's National Cup Final, National Basketball Arena, Dublin 21/1/2023 University of Galway Mystics vs Limerick Sport Huskies Limerick Sport Huskies’ Bronagh Dollard with Maedhbh O’Brien of University of Galway Mystics ©INPHO/Ben Brady

InsureMyHouse.ie Under 20 Women's National Cup Final, National Basketball Arena, Dublin 21/1/2023 University of Galway Mystics vs Limerick Sport Huskies University of Galway Mystics’ Emma Glavin, Kara McCleane and Hazel Finn celebrate with the Under 20 Women's National Cup ©INPHO/Ben Brady

University of Galway Maree edge past DBS Éanna to clinch InsureMyHouse.ie Pat Duffy Men’s National Cup University of Galway Maree 74–69 DBS Éanna

By Cóilín Duffy

Jarett Haines picked the perfect night to score a new season-high of 35 as University of Galway Maree made history with a 74-69 win over Eanna to claim their first InsureMyHouse.ie Pat Duffy Cup Final at

the National Basketball Arena.

They had to fend off a dicey second quarter and produce some big defensive stops at times, but were deserved winners and become the first team from Galway to win the National Cup, in their maiden final appearance.

If the semi-final had a boisterous party atmosphere, the showpiece event was even better between two sides who both lost league fixtures the previous weekend. Any concerns about how they’d start in this matchup were quickly settled.

Maree got off to the perfect start, armed with a 9-0 run. Stephen Commins’ triple and some early success for Zvonimir Cutuk told the story, as Charlie Crowley’s side started stronger.

Eanna were scoreless in the first four minutes despite creating some good shooting looks, aware their slump wouldn’t last much longer.

Neil Lynch drilled a corner three and blocked a shot soon afterwards, with Kristijan Andabaka scoring a transition layup.

Lynch was often at the forefront of Eanna’s attacking moves so it wasn’t surprising to see him tee up teammates with assists before both he and Jarett Haines’ shots agonisingly rattled in-and-out.

Rodrigo Gomez and Marko Tomic traded triples, before Joshua Wilson scored an easy basket after a backdoor cut pass into him by Stefan Desnica.

Tomic, who hadn’t featured since early November, got the crowd increasingly rowdy as he sunk another deep-range shot, while Wilson soon joined him with a basket from long-distance.

Haines made both free throws after being fouled, while Gomez and Sean Jenkins traded baskets before Romonn Nelson almost sunk a buzzer-beater in what was a pulsating end to the first quarter.

Mics in the team huddle picked up some clear instructions from Eanna’s coaching staff: maintain your intensity and Maree would tire.

Closing out on Gomez and defending Cutuk better was easier said than done, mind. Cathal Finn drove into the area and kept his composure through traffic to score, in what was a seven-point surge for Galway out of the break.

Eoin Rockall fought for possession off a loose ball, while Burke stood strong defensively to thwart a promising attack too and Gomez made an important interception.

For all of Maree’s off-ball efforts, Éanna would soon punish them. After a three-minute scoreless run, Scott Kinaman hit a three to finish a good possession packed with ball movement.

Cutuk’s good scoring start continued as the Croatian was rewarded for his anticipation, while the same can be said for

“ The Maree fans couldn’t believe Éanna were allowed to continue unpunished after a clear travel wasn’t called mid-possession, moments before Jenkins put them back in the lead. Haines made them quickly forget that with another mid-range jumpshot, then drained a contested three over Wilson’s outstretched arm on the next possession too.

©INPHO/Ben Brady

Wilson – abruptly earning free throws with aggression before hitting a corner three.

Mark Reynolds was left bloodied and unable to continue with a reported broken nose following an accidental clash with Gomez, an unwelcome blow for Éanna.

Cutuk and a Gomez putback dunk were the pick of Maree’s shots to finish the first-half, but they were guilty of starting a little slow after the interval.

Éanna’s confidence grew as Andabaka assisted on successive threes, while Cutuk had a heavily contested layup attempt swatted away shortly afterwards.

Just as the commentators were wondering where the Galway response would come from, Haines made himself heard.

Rockall’s timely steal was finished emphatically on his alley-oop pass to Gomez, as the guard’s assertiveness was paying dividends.

Match officials should’ve awarded him an and-one play after watching him score through heavy contact, before draining a triple to give them a 45-44 lead.

Back-and-forth the two sides went, and this was finely poised heading into the final ten minutes.

Cutuk levelled the score at 53-53 after knocking down a three, then added another two with a mid-range jumper. Jenkins replied on the next possession, before Haines’ well-timed heave rattled out once again.

The Maree fans couldn’t believe Éanna were allowed to continue unpunished after a clear travel wasn’t called mid-possession, moments before Jenkins put them back in the lead.

Haines made them quickly forget that with another mid-range jumpshot, then drained a contested three over Wilson’s outstretched arm on the next possession too.

His scoring burst continued despite missing a heat check three, while Cutuk and Rockall – the latter penalised for an overzealous challenge – were defensively tenacious near the basket.

Haines drew attention and teed up John Burke for two, before a Gomez steal and more slick ball movement saw Burke hit a corner three – Maree now had a sixpoint advantage to defend.

67-61 the score, as Eanna head coach Darren McGovern reassured his players there was plenty of time to make up the ground. Not much, after Wilson inadvertently stepped out of bounds.

Shortly afterwards, he charged forward in transition from a sudden turnover and had his next shot blocked by Haines –who raced away to score a layup.

Gomez secured a big rebound before Desnica converted a putback finish, but the encounter was iced by that man Haines: another deep three. He was named the Finals MVP after a matchwinning display.

Scorers for University of Galway

Maree: Jarett Haines 35, Zvonimir Cutuk 15, Rodrigo Gomez 13, John Burke 5, Stephen Commins 3, Cathal Finn 2, Eoin Rockall 1.

Scorers for DBS Éanna: Sean Jenkins 14, Marko Tomic 14, Kristijan Andabaka 11, Joshua Wilson 11, Stefan Desnica 8, Scott Kinevane 3, Alex Dolenko 3, Neil Lynch 3, Mark Reynolds 2.

Teams

University of Galway Maree: Stephen Commins, Eoin Rockall, Rodrigo Gomez, Jarett Haines, Zvonmir Cutuk, Cathal Finn, Ben Burke, Zach Light, Matthew Sweeney, John Burke, Malik Thiam, Paul Freeman.

Top scorers: Jarett Haines (35), Zvonimir Cutuk (15), Rodrigo Gomez (13), John Burke (5), Stephen Commins (3).

DBS Éanna: Neil Lynch, Joshua Wilson, Mark Reynolds, Stefan Desnica, Kristijan Andabaka, Hillary Netsiyanwa, Romonn Nelson, Scott Kinevane, Sean Jenkins, Alex Dolenko, Conor Dikcius, Joshua Wilson, Marko Tomic.

Top scorers: Sean Jenkins (14), Marko Tomic (14), Kristijan Andabaka (11), Joshua Wilson (11), Stefan Desnica (8).

InsureMyHouse.ie Pat Duffy Cup Final, National Basketball Arena, Dublin 21/1/2023 DBS Eanna vs University of Galway Maree The University of Galway Maree team celebrate at the final whistle. ©INPHO/Ben Brady