Issue 80 March/April 2016 E3.95 (£3.20)
The magazine for people who don’t act their age
Kathryn Thomas has ways of getting you fit!
Profile of Father Peter McVerry ‘My dad and me’ – a daughter’s heart-breaking decision
News Review l Creative Writing l Travel l Health Fashion & Beauty l Profiles l Competitions and much more!
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Issue80 March/April 2016
Contents 32
8 NEWS: 2 Katherine Thomas has ways of getting you fit: 8 Nigel Baxter meets the TV star and learns about her fitness ‘boot camps’ for older people My Dad and me: 12 Anne McCabe recalls her heart-breaking decision in agreeing to her father’s wishes to ignore medication and let him ‘go’ ‘A Faith without justice is a false faith’; 16 Nigel Baxter talks to celebrated anti-drug campaigner and social reformer Father Peter McVerry. Joyce, O’Casey and 1916: 22 In her latest ‘literary journey’ Lorna Hogg traces the activities of James Joyce and Sean O’Casey How to win by a nose: 24 With Spring approaching hay fever sufferers prepare for the worst. But what is hay fever and how can it be managed? Digital tricks: 26 Our new series on how older people are managing new technology Around the counties: 28 Lorna Hogg on the attractions of Co Kildare Setting the right tone: 32 Aine O’Connor explains how right colours in our home can affect our mood and outlook. An Post opens new visitor attractions in Dublin’s GPO: 38 Elder abuse: 42 The background to this disturbingly increasing phenomenon Publishing Directors: Brian McCabe, Des Duggan Editorial Director: John Low Editor At Large: Shay Healy Consultant Editor: Jim Collier Advertising: Willie Fallon - willie@slp.ie Design & Production: www.cornerhouse.ie Contributors: Lorna Hogg, Dermot Gilleece, Maretta Dillon, Jim Collier, Peter Power, Matthew Hughes, Mairead Robinson, Eileen Casey, Debbie Orme, Connie McEvoy Published by S& L Promotions Ltd.,
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Suffer little children: Joe Duffy’s book on the children killed in the Rising Keep a check on your pulse: Two consultants emphasise the importance of checking your pulse regularly Smart moves: Mairead Robinson looks at the growing market for men’s grooming products – and it’s not just for the young uns. Creative writing: How modern medical technology is helping to relieve joint problems: Visitor attractions: Castles, gardens, museums, industrial heritage, the choice is yours. Wine World: What’s on in the arts: Free dementia training resources: Details of the Elevator Project Golf: The saga of Sam Snead’s famous ring;
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Northern Notes:
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Meeting place:
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Know your rights:
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Crossword:
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Crafts:
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Unit 1, 15 Oxford Lane, Ranelagh, Dublin 6 Tel: +353 (01) 4969028. Fax: +353 (01) 4068229 Editorial: John@slp.ie Advertising: info@slp.ie Sign up to our newsletter and be in with a chance to win some great prizes at www.seniortimes.ie Follow us on Facebook and Twitter
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News Now Ageing and advocacy service to promote EC Consumer Centre warns of holiday scams and protect older people rights Sage- Support & Advocacy Service for Older People’s mission is ‘to promote and protect the rights, freedoms and dignity of older people by developing support and advocacy services wherever ageing poses a challenge for individuals.’ In circumstances where people have to depend on others, there is need for support so that rights, freedoms and dignity are promoted and protected. Through advocacy the voice of the older person is honoured, thus ensuring s/he is heard without undue pressure from family and/or systems’ interests. The Sage approach is to collaborate where possible and to challenge where necessary. Sage has developed Standards for Support and Advocacy Work with Older People
which describes advocacy as ‘a process of empowerment of individuals or groups which includes taking action to help people say what they want, secure their rights, represent their interests or obtain the services they need.’ Advocacy can be undertaken by individuals themselves, by their friends and relations, by peers and those who have had similar experiences, by professionals and trained volunteers. Knowing the person’s beliefs, values, wishes and preferences means that an advocate can appropriately support an individual to address issues he/she might face. Active listening and communication are key skills in enabling an advocate in their support and advocacy role. For more information contact 01 536 7330 or go to www.sage.thirdageireland.ie
The European Consumer Centre in Ireland (ECC Ireland) has warned Irish holidaymakers to watch out for unscrupulous traders in popular destinations such as the Canary Islands. ECC Ireland regularly receives complaints about holidaymakers being scammed by traders using various manipulative tactics, with the elderly being especially targeted. In the last few weeks we have had reports of holidaymakers being scammed and sums of money ranging from €200 to even €7,000 taken from their bank accounts and credit cards. Further information about the scams, the tactics used, and some examples of cases, conact The European Consumer Centre Ireland MACRO Centre, 1 Green Street, Dublin 7, D07 X6NR. Tel: (01) 8797643 +353-1-8734328
Give it a Go – action and adventure for the active retired
Motorcycling, surfing, abseiling and mountain biking are just some of the activities on offer at the Give it a Go event taking place in Killarney this June. Organised by Active Retirement Ireland and The Gleneagle Hotel, Give it a Go takes place over four days from June 13th to 16th and celebrates ageing and the freedom and opportunities retirement has to offer. Attendees will have the chance to try out a huge range of activities as well as attending seminars on subjects as varied as social me2 Senior Times l March - April 2016 l www.seniortimes.ie
dia and craft beer tasting. And after a lengthy day of action and adventure, there will be live entertainment into the small hours. ‘When I looked at the big music festivals happening around Ireland, I thought, why not have a huge event for older people - an event that shows ageing as action packed and positive? I approached The Gleneagle Hotel with the concept and they were more than willing to Give it a Go,’ says Maureen Kavanagh, CEO of
Active Retirement Ireland. Accommodation packages for Give it a Go are available at The Gleneagle and Brehon Hotels and these include entry into a selection of the on-site activities, the educational seminars and the event exhibition, as well as nightly entertainment in The Gleneagle’s famous Ballroom. Day visitors are also welcome. For more visit www.gleneaglehotel.com or call 064 6671550.
CORK
MADRID, MENORCA & 20 MORE SUN DESTINATIONS
MADRID
NANTES
MENORCA
JUNE TO SEPTEMBER
JUNE TO SEPTEMBER
JUNE TO AUGUST
Madrid’s charms are sometimes obscured by the sheer number of incredible destinations in Spain, but the Spanish capital is truly one of Europe’s great cities.
Nantes was the historical capital of Brittany, but for almost 200 years it has been the regional centre for the Pays de la Loire region. It’s a city with an obviously rich past but it’s also the gateway to a region that is French to its core.
Menorca is the second largest of the Balearic Islands. It is best known for a gentler pace of life compared to near neighbours Majorca and Ibiza and for the great sandy beaches that dot its coastline.
Iberia Express will be operating direct flights from Cork Airport to Adolfo Suarez Madrid-Barajas Airport in 2016.
www.corkairport.com
CityJet will be commencing weekly direct flights from Cork Airport to Nantes Atlantique Airport in 2016.
From June 2016, Lee Travel and Stein Travel - together with CityJet - will be operating weekly flights direct from Cork Airport to Menorca.
The local restaurant has been working closely with Home Instead Senior Care to deliver awareness-raising and information resources to restaurant employees, which will help them provide a more Dementia Friendly service to
New Fifty Plus Fit supplement for Senior Times
people with dementia, their families and carers who frequent the restaurant. Following the completion of Home Instead Senior Care’s dementia training programme, the Ennis restaurant displays a ‘Dementia Friendly’ window sticker. This lets people in the community know that the restaurant is committed to delivering a dementia friendly service and that they will receive a professional and caring service from employees.
Kicking off in our next issue, Fifty Plus Fit will be a special supplement to Senior Times on everything active for the Over 50s in Ireland. Today’s biggest growth area in sport and active leisure is the level of participation amongst the Over 50s. The evidence of medical and social research confirms that fitness makes a positive difference at any age, while the opportunities to enhance quality of life, health and longevity have never been greater. Old taboos and expectations are being thrown aside as senior sport breaks barriers and enhances lives. Fifty Plus Fit will be your guide to adding active leisure to your lifestyle. With information, inspiration and advice on everything active, we’ll help you to add fun, fitness and health to your life. Fifty Plus Fit will cover all the activities you love - and more, profiling the senior sportsmen and women who are blazing trails across Ireland and the world, giving health and nutrition tips to boost your personal best, advising on gear, fitness routines, clubs, events - and anything else you want to see in Ireland’s magazine for people who don’t act their age. It’s your life, your lifestyle, so let us know at Senior Times what you’re up to - and what you’d like to be up to.. 4 Senior Times l March - April 2016 l www.seniortimes.ie
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DEMENTIA F R I E N D LY
In conjunction with
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New product can reduce your cholesterol in 6 weeks Zerochol, made from natural plant sterols, can, according to the makers, help lower cholesterol in just six weeks. Taken with your main meal of the day, plant sterols can help to reduce the absorption of cholesterol from food into the body, which may reduce the risk of coronary heart disease.
Fifty Plus Fit will be presented by Conor O’Hagan, a writer and editor on sport and fitness for over 25 years
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Food Heaven in Ennis is the first official Dementia Friendly Restaurant in Ennis, thanks to participating in a training programme with leading Alzheimer’s and dementia care provider, Home Instead Senior Care.
PROU DT
First dementia friendly restaurant in Ennis
Changing habits is never easy, so we’re delighted to introduce a new free online support program which provides daily diet and lifestyle tips, healthy snack ideas and recipes to help support your cholesterol lowering efforts. Sign up for the free program to receive daily e-mail updates with information relating to heart health, cholesterol, healthy fats, sugar and how it relates to high cholesterol, how to increase fibre to manage cholesterol plus lifestyle tips, recipes and healthy snack ideas. Available at your local health food store or pharmacy or visit www.zerochol.ie
Nox Hotel Galway is an affordable yet stylish hotel experience with contemporary and atmospheric surroundings for guests to relax and unwind and comfortable rooms for restorative sleep after a long day of shopping and sightseeing. Nox Hotel is ideally located on the Headford Road, providing quick access to Galway’s energetic city centre, Shopping Centre’s and main road routes to the city. Guests can avail of complimentary, surface car-parking and high speed Wi-Fi throughout the hotel. Inspired by Nox, the Roman Goddess of the Night, the hotel is all about sleep. Each of the relaxed and bright modern rooms has been tastefully designed to ensure a relaxing stay and the ideal sleeping environment with superior beds and cosy duvets.
Charity helps COPD sufferers with exercise programmes Siel Bleu Ireland is a health care charity, improving the lives of older adults through interactive, tailored exercise programmes in 16 counties across Ireland. Established in France, Siel Bleu has over 18 years of experience helping to develop a solution to promote proactive ageing for our population. Siel Bleu offers older adults a range of ‘triple impact’ programmes; no matter a person’s age or physical ability, the charity has a programme that will improve their physical capabilities, increase their social inclusion and accelerate psychological happiness. The Exercise, COPD & Me project began with
the unusual partnership between the pharmaceutical company Boehringer Ingelheim, the social enterprise Siel Bleu Ireland and the charity COPD Support Ireland. According to COPD Support Ireland there are an estimated 380,000 Irish adults living with COPD and only 110,000 of those have been diagnosed. With only limited access to hospital-based pulmonary rehabilitation programmes, there is a serious deficit for all areas of COPD management, especially exercise programmes.
The BowelScreen Home Test Kit. It’s free, quick and easy to use.
The National Bowel Screening Programme BowelScreen is a Government-funded programme that offers regular home bowel screening to people aged 60-69 living in Ireland every two years. When it’s your turn you will receive a letter inviting you to participate.
It’s free, easy and you can do it yourself at home.
visit www.bowelscreen.ie to find out more.
BowelScreen is part of the Health Service Executive.
26 hotels nationwide in Select group
RTÉ Fair City star, Jenny Dixon, and GAA TV pundit, Joe Brolly, pictured at the launch of Cystic Fibrosis Ireland’s National Awareness Week and fundraising appeal, which takes place from April 11 to 17. Jenny and Joe are calling on the public to buy a purple rose on 65 Roses Day (Friday April 15), to organise a fun 65-themed challenge fundraiser, or to make a €2 text donation by texting 65ROSES to 50300. There are more than 1,200 people living in Ireland with cystic fibrosis and the charity is hoping to raise €65,000 for much-needed services. For more information, visit www.cfireland.ie or telephone 1890 311 211.
Top Attractions collaborate to launch Dublin’s Northside Attractions Alliance
North Dublin’s most iconic attractions and destinations have launched of a new collaborative tourism initiative, Dublin’s North side Attractions (DNA) Alliance. The DNA Alliance is a cooperative marketing partnership of city centres top attractions and experiences, created to highlight the rich cultural heritage that exists within the northside of Dublin. Together, the Alliance members will create a compelling visitor experience under the Dublin’s DNA brand, establishing a unique cultural quarter of the city by mapping the close proximity of a range of quality, authentic, attractions that offer unique and shared stories specific to this part of the city. Dublin’s DNA offers a number of touring options starting with a hop on / hop off bus route provid ed by Dublin City Sightseeing Tours. A number of guided walking experiences already exist and new DNA walking trails are in development in association with Failte Ireland. Members are Old Jameson Distillery, Glasnevin Cemetery, National Botanic Gardens, GAA Museum and Croke Park Stadium, Mountjoy Square Society, Guinness Storehouse, The James Joyce Centre, The Hugh Lane Gallery, Dublin Tenement , 14 Henrietta Street, 1916 Rebellion Walking Tours, EPIC Ireland and GPO – Witness History Museum 6 Senior Times l March - April 2016 l www.seniortimes.ie
Select Hotels of Ireland comprises of 26 of Ireland’s finest independently owned hotels nationwide. All of Select Hotels are renowned for their Irish hospitality, dedication to service, great food and high standards of accommodation. From capital cities to intimate hideaways, there are many great Irish destinations to choose from. Each hotel in Ireland is unique and independent. So if you are looking for over 50’s breaks in Ireland, a fishing weekend, a city centre stay or a shopping trip we have the perfect destination for you. They all offer great value, such as dinner bed and breakfast from only €49 per person sharing with the Select Exclusive Over 50’s offer. When you stay at any of their hotels as a thank you, you will receive on departure a ‘2 for 1’ voucher which will allow you to book a return two night stay in any of the hotels and get one night free. This great offer starts from only €119 midweek and that includes 2 nights’ bed and breakfast for two people sharing. Check out Select Hotels Special Offers online at www.selecthotels.ie or call Select Hotels Central Reservations Office on 1850 200 560 .
The welcoming bar at Treacys Hotel, Spa & Leisure Centre, Waterford a quality three star heritage hotel that combines modern comfort with quintessential Irish style. The hotel is ideally located on the waterfront in historic Waterford, minutes from Waterford’s Viking Triangle. This prime location makes Treacys Hotel the ideal base for exploring all that County Waterford has to offer. The hotel boasts 163 exquisite guest bedrooms, 5 conference suites and a state of the art Spirit Leisure Centre, equipped with gym, Jacuzzi, sauna and a 20m swimming pool. Our in-house Spirit Beauty Spa offers luxurious treatments to all our guests. For further details on Treacys Hotel Group Tel: +353 (0) 51 877 222 or visit the www.treacysgroup.com
Great value breaks on the French Riviera A four night stay on the French Riviera for €275 is available at the newly-renovated Mimozas Resort in Cannes-Mandelieu.(Flights are extra) The resort is situated close to the popular towns of Grasse, Antibes, Nice, and Mougins.. Mimozas Resort is located a ten minute drive from the heart of Cannes, and a bus service operates nearby.
Research highlights low levels of knowledge of shingles among 50+ The majority of people aged 50 and over in Ireland have poor knowledge of shingles, according to new research supported by Sanofi Pasteur MSD, Age Action, Chronic Pain Ireland and the Patients’ Association of Ireland. The research discovered that while all Irish adults aged 50 and over are aware of shingles, most have a limited knowledge of it. Knowledge levels among both males and females are low. However females are more than twice as likely to know a lot more about shingles than males, at 25% compared to just 12%1. Just 19% of respondents were aware that you cannot catch shingles from someone with chickenpox and only eight per cent knew that you cannot develop shingles unless you previously have had chickenpox. Two out of three cases of shingles occur in people over 50 years of age, and the disease also tends to be more severe in older adults.
‘All natural’ treatment for aching joints Lubrisyn HA is an all-natural hyaluronan (HA) supplement, in liquid form, which is easily absorbed by the body to help replenish synovial fluid and lubricate aching joints. Hyaluronan is already found in the synovial fluid that cushions and lubricates joints, and acts as a shock absorber for the body. A liquid oral form of hyaluronan, LubriSyn HA is taken daily, and is designed to help restore the joint fluid that is degraded through aging and exercise in everyone, and which results in arthritic joints. Any break down in the synovial fluid level diminishes protection for joints, and will lead to bone-on-bone friction and inflammation. The resulting arthritis and chronic pain can impact sporting performance and interfere with daily activity, including mobility, ultimately affecting quality of life. Ironically, from a health perspective, the more individuals exercise, the faster joint fluid can degenerate, and the more likely bone-on-bone inflammation will occur. That friction leads to arthritis, an inflammation of the joints, which ranges from mild to severe and causes pain and immobility. One month’s supply of Lubrisyn HA, an 11.5oz bottle, is available in pharmacists and healthfood stores countrywide, as well as online at www.lubrisyn.ie Even closer to Mimozas Resort is the picturesque village of La Napoule, situated just a 10 minute stroll from the resort. La Napoule with its marina and castle perched dramatically on the edge of the Mediterannean Sea. Mimozas Resort offers a range of selfcatering apartments, all with their own private balcony overlooking either the lake or golf course, with separate sitting rooms and plenty home comforts. Fly direct to Nice airport from Dublin with Ryanair. Book now at www.mimozascannes.com.
The X Factor changed her life. So has FlEXiSEq® ...Flexiseq has taken away the pain “ and I’m even wearing high-heels again – which I couldn’t do for a decade. Now I feel I could go on Strictly Come Dancing, never mind X Factor.
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Drug-free FLEXISEQ® is clinically proven to relieve pain and restore mobility in osteoarthritis and is safe for long-term use* X Factor sensation Mary Byrne is beating her battle with arthritis thanks to drug-free wonder gel FLEXISEq®. The singer was in constant pain and even needed a wheelchair while on holidays – but now has a new lease of life. Mary, 54, says: “I was caught in a vicious circle. The pain brought on depression, and that coupled with the arthritis left me feeling terrible. The pain was so bad I didn’t want to get out of the bed at all in the mornings. Not any more. Now I’m even dancing again, and I don’t remember the last time I took a painkiller. I just apply the gel every morning and night.” Available in all good pharmacies and online.
For enquiries please contact: info@flexiseq.ie or 1 800 939149 www.flexiseq.com
*As effective as celecoxib 100mg twice daily (an oral prescription painkiller). In clinical trials there were no health issues associated with long-term use of FLEXISEQ®.
D RU G - F R
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Profile
‘Operation Education’? Kathryn’s no frontiers approach to life Nigel Baxter meets Kathryn Thomas
As someone who cheerfully admits to have grown up on television, Kathryn Thomas knows her medium of choice can be a demanding one. How demanding? Well, on Valentine Day she ended up working unexpectedly. You sense it might not be the first time. When Senior Times catches up with the popular broadcaster, Kathryn is expecting another film crew in the door any minute - par for the course when she and the other members of the Operation Transformation team are the middle of the season. Indeed, it says much for the Carlow woman and her engaging outlook on life that her priority isn’t that she is up against the clock workwise, but rather the health and travails of the Operation Transformation leaders. The show, now a new year staple, charts the progress of participants as they battle the bulge, spearheaded by selected ‘leaders’. Except this year one of the leaders, Dan Kennedy, was forced to withdraw from the programme after he was diagnosed with severe colitis, a condition which pre-dated his involvement with the show. “He is actually doing great, they caught it just in time,” Kathryn relays with typical effervescence. In fact, she believes Dan’s case high8 Senior Times l March - April 2016 l www.seniortimes.ie
lights the importance of health and how some of us can sometimes put off checking up on warning signs. “The doctor had said that it was worst case of colitis he had seen,” she says. “That puts the great of God into you.” We Irish are, arguably, world class when it comes to not visiting the doctor. We adore procrastination. But as Kathryn says, in this instance: “If he [Dan] had not been on the show, God knows when he would have gone to the doctor. The lesson for viewers is there if something is wrong. He is just glad he still has his bowel, he is great and doing fine.” In many ways the presenter has always been synonymous with health and well-being. She first appeared on our screens on children’s TV sports show Rapid before then landing the enviable job of jetting around the world presenting RTE’s travel programme No Frontiers. The title was apt as Kathryn seemed to end up anywhere and everywhere. However, away from images of beach loungers and backpacking, the programme seems to have informed Kathryn’s outlook on other aspects of her life, not least the aforementioned healthy living and a positive outlook on life in general. It also led her nicely to other career posts such as her time co-presenting Winning Streak and then on to Operation Transformation and The Voice.
“Some people say to me do you, when Operation Transformation starts up in January, do you cut the carbs and lose a few pounds as well, and in fact I don’t,” she says. “I think because I sort of grew up on television, where people have kind of seen me grow up and get older and I have gone from flying around the place in a bikini to doing The Voice and Operation Transformation, so I don’t really feel the pressure of looking a certain way because I’m on the telly, because I have always sort of been on telly, if you know what I mean. “I find it difficult when friends of mine might go to me, ‘Oh my God, you have the live shows, The Voice is starting, do you not get paranoid about that?’, in the same way that they would try and lose a few pounds if they had a wedding coming up. I don’t do that. “Some days I have good weeks and some days I have bad weeks but I think I have to be conscious of it all the time. I would consider myself quite a foodie, I love my food, going out to dinner is one of my favourite joys in my life, I’m now going out with a restaurateur and a chef, who equally loves his food, and we love going out for dinner and trying new things, so because of that I have to exercise and I have to watch what I eat because I am prone to putting on weight as well. So I am just lucky that I love exercise.”
This love of exercise has also dovetailed nicely with a new business venture. She founded Pure Results Bootcamp, modelled on what she says is the best of the bootcamps she has attended in other parts of the world. Last year’s iteration was based down in West Cork and this year some bootcamps will be held in Parknasilla before the venue switches to the Dromore Estate near Kenmare in Co Kerry. As many as 20 individual bootcamps are planned for this year, beginning in April and running until early September. Kathryn says she decided on the idea after attending bootcamps herself and how “I couldn’t find anything I wanted to do [replicate] in that field”. She visited various versions in places like Spain and Los Angeles, on a visit to her sister, and pieced together what she believed would be something that would work here. Plus, she freely admits that over the course of her years working on Operation Transformation, she has picked up much knowledge and advice from the nutrition and exercise gurus on the show. “We don’t invest enough time in ourselves,” she offers regarding why even just the act of taking yourself away from everyone and everything else might be just what so many Irish people need. “It’s a kick-start, when you surround yourself and concentrate yourself in an environment
where it is the sole reason for you being there, it’s about clean living and good sleeping.” She believes that, so far, around 85% of visitors have made the journey because they want to lose weight, but she adds that there is a growing number of people who want to have some time and space for themselves, who maybe want to take stock or re-orientate their lives while in a supportive and healthy environment. Even the phones are packed away, making more room for mental rest and relaxation. She accepts that the term ‘bootcamp’ might put the frighteners on some people, but she quickly dismisses any antiquated notions of people running through car tyres or slogging through a bog. “People want to be able to get away and learn more,” she says. “We do take a more holistic approach. You don’t want to scare the hell out of people. In seven days it’s incredible what happens to not just the body, but the mind.” Different options are available but many people seem to have sampled the three week programme which comprises a week ‘on camp’ followed by a two week aftercare programme with food and fitness plan with follow-up contact from the Pure Results team. The activities are predominately outdoors, be it the early morning jog, or a hike, all weather-permitting, mixed with high intensity interval training, or low impact work through pilates or yoga. The food is free of wheat, sugar and dairy, there’s no caffeine, and it’s all done in
groups of between 20 and 25 people varying in ages and fitness levels. In some ways, as Kathryn explains, it’s actually not unlike the show with which she is now so centrally associated. “When you do seven days away it’s incredible,” she says. “People come down on a Friday very nervous, they don’t know if they’re going to be the fattest, the oldest, the youngest, they don’t know about this and then the guards come down and within a day they realise everyone is in the same boat and that it’s about pushing yourself outside the comfort zone. “People do get quite emotional.” Amid the highs and the lows, she says some people face a certain guilt about being away and spending some time with themselves, and many people are then pleasantly surprised with what they have achieved by the end of it all. Plus, Kathryn is often on-hand herself, no doubt using her people-reading skills honed under the TV lights to ensure that everyone is at their ease. She is also a strong believer that age is no barrier. Pure Results Bootcamp are running an over-60’s week in July, although that is not to define things too much - some versions of the bootcamp so far have had participants in their seventies getting involved. Senior Times l March - April 2016 l www.seniortimes.ie 9
When you hear Kathryn speak about her active parents, it’s clear, as the saying goes, that she didn’t lick it off a stone. “We want to encourage people to get out and walk and jog and dance and hike,” she says. “My mother has a very young attitude. My Dad is in his late sixties, he has slowed down a bit but he still tries to get out walking three times a week.” There’s active, and then there’s active: Kathryn recalls how her mother accompanied her on her travels not too long ago and how the experience also informed her view of what she would like her own life to be like when she gets older. The mother-and-daughter pair were trekking in south east Asia, in northern Vietnam to be precise, a part of the world with which Kathryn was familiar from her No Frontiers days. “I did a lot of trekking up there,” she recalls. “You see the benefits of the diet - women into their seventies and eighties out in the paddy fields. Their skin is incredible, and there is a combined work ethic from the young right through to the very old. They live with their extended family, in a bamboo hut.” When she was trekking with her mother just a few years ago, they ended up staying in one of those bamboo dwellings, up the ladders so they were above the cattle. Kathryn recalls being struck by how she and her mum and
the other travellers slept at one end and at the other a whole extended family network slept easily in their beds, grandparents down to grandchildren. “They have a sense of family that we get, as Irish people,” she says. “I remember saying ‘this wouldn’t be a bad place to grow old.” Not that she is thinking too far ahead, it mist be stressed. Still just in her mid-thirties, the Carlow native admits she is “quite impulsive” and does not try to think too far into the future, preferring to focus on the here and now. She says she is “definitely” more of a short term thinker, adding: “I don’t know what I’m going to be doing for the next five days.” “I’m a big believer in making every day count and to enjoy it while it’s here,” she says. Trying to visualise where she might be in 20 or 30 years time takes some thought, and after pondering it briefly she simply decides that, then as now, health is the most important factor. “I would hope to have my health for as long as possible,” she says with conviction. “And then just to be someone who enjoys life - I don’t want to be someone who loses that.” For the same reason, she hopes that, were she to have children, for example, she wouldn’t feel tethered and that she might take them off backpacking with her were the opportunity to arise. And when she’s older herself, she still wants to be heading “off the beaten track” in places like Asia and Africa.
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If your health is your wealth, then Kathryn is quids in, even if she is so busy she has to share February 14 with a film crew and is in the middle of six day working weeks thanks to Operation Transformation. “I used to be the travel girl, and people used to stop me in Dunnes or wherever else and they would ask where to go on their honeymoon or where to go on their summer holiday,” she says. “Whereas in recent years I have become sort of the health girl.” She might not consider herself to be an expert, but it’s a fair assumption that some of that learning has definitely rubbed off.
” H T N I O I W N S I U H T T I T D E O R G C I “ MY G OKIN
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WE LOOK AT THINGS DIFFERENTLY
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Ethics
My dad and me Death is inevitable for all of us. The only option is to try to control, in some way, how we die. Anna McCabe recalls her heart-breaking decision in agreeing with her father’s wishes to ignore medication and let him ‘go’. Above the Ladies hand dryer in Dundrum Town Centre, Dublin last week was a quote that caught my eye; it read: “Life is not about how many breaths you take, but how often life takes your breath away.” It is typical of the pseudo-profound statements that appear everywhere nowadays, from greeting cards to posts on Facebook. Generally I don’t give them much thought. However, within a couple of days I heard Chris Eubanks (the boxer) utter a similar phrase on radio: “Life’s journey is not about arriving to the grave in a well preserved body, but about sliding in sideways saying, ‘gee, what a ride’.” That one made me smile. It is hard to disagree with such sentiments. I imagine most of us, when talking in the abstract, think we should all live life to the full, and if that means we head off this mortal coil a bit sooner, then so be it. But how do we react in reality when a loved one who has had a good long life becomes ill? Do we rush them to the hospital expecting, if not explicitly begging, for everything to be done to save them? It is hard not to. Human instinct is to “do something” to somehow “fix it”. This is the 21st century after all, and our expectations of medicine are infinite. Three months ago my dear old Dad contracted pneumonia. He had just 12 Senior Times l March - April 2016 l www.seniortimes.ie
had his 89th birthday. For the past few years he had been paralysed due to a spinal problem. He had partial movement in his left arm, but otherwise had no control over his body. Nevertheless, his mind and wit were as sharp as ever. He was well cared for in a nearby nursing home and I visited him most days. We did the crossword and we chatted about current events and rugby – he loved rugby, especially if Ireland or Leinster were doing well. Michael didn’t like having to be spoon-fed, though he rarely said so. He was frustrated that he couldn’t read a newspaper or a book because he couldn’t hold it, or turn a page, or sometimes because his eyesight couldn’t quite focus, even with his glasses. He was aggravated that he couldn’t change the TV channel if the programme I had set for him turned out not to be so good. I told him a million times to use the call bell and ask the staff, but sure …. “I don’t like to bother them”! He had his Black Bush whiskey which he was able to manage via a non-spill beaker and straw. He was generally well in himself and invariably in good form. Occasionally his urinary catheter would get blocked and we would have a trip to the Mater A&E to get a new one (it could no longer go in the normal route and had to go in through an opening in his abdomen). Michael’s life was very limited but he always had a smile.
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When I had a conversation with him about what I should do if he “took a turn”, he told me not to send him to the hospital, because “this is no life”. That was in 2010. So in October 2015 when he got pneumonia, we had the chat again. It was harder this time, because it was no longer hypothetical. I explained that he could be treated with oral antibiotics in the nursing home or we could go to hospital where they would give IV antibiotics. The oral antibiotics might not work, I told him. He nodded. He said he wanted to stay in the nursing home. We both knew what that meant. It was heart-breaking. The next few weeks were difficult. It was much harder than I imagined to do nothing; to let him go. I had to keep reminding myself that I couldn’t ask him to stay for me; nor to put up with the limitations his failing body had placed on him, for one minute more than he had to. It isn’t what I wanted that mattered, nor anyone else, but what Michael wanted. He died on November 10th. He had a good death; maybe not the easiest, but he had every possible pain relief and I was with him. He was conscious up to the day before he died and he was able to whisper to us what he wanted. A nursing friend of mine reminded me that we used to call pneumonia “the old man’s friend” because it took them away from possibly worse illnesses or disabilities. We have forgotten such sayings now, but I would maintain they are still true. Death is inevitable for all of us. It will come. The only option is to try to control, in some way, how we die. On December 30th 2015, Michael D.
Walking
Make A Wish charity walk for Sardinia and Corsica Make-A-Wish Ireland is organising a fundraising walking challenge to the Islands of Sardinia and Corsica. This unique challenge is a fantastic way to raise money to help grant wishes to brave children aged between 3 - 17 years battling life-threatening threatening illnesses such as cancer, Leukaemia and Cystic Fibrosis. This year, Make-A-Wish is hoping to grant 182 magical wishes, and their fundraising walking challenge will ensure they increase funding to help reach their target of wishes in 2016.
Higgins signed the Assisted Decision-Making (Capacity) Act (2015) into law. One of its provisions is providing a legal framework for Advance Healthcare Directives (AHDs). Sometimes referred to as “living wills”, AHDs allow people to specify the extent of medical treatment or intervention they wish to receive, or more importantly, to decline, in the event they become unconscious or unable to communicate in the future. Everyone has the right to decline any treatment if they so wish. In most situations we can readily do that ourselves. AHDs provide for scenarios where we may not be conscious or able to communicate those wishes. Effectively, they provide a means for people to state in advance what they would wish for, in terms of medical treatment, at the end of their life. I contend that everyone should consider completing an AHD and critically, to have that conversation with family about what you might want, or not want, if you become suddenly seriously ill. The website www. thinkahead.ie has detailed information on AHDs, including template forms. Alternatively people can write requesting a booklet to: Forum on End of Life, 3rd Floor, Morrison Chambers, 32 Nassau Street, Dublin 2. Anna McCabe is a mature student in Health & Society at DCU. Her final year Health Action Project entitled “Advance Advice”is to help raise public awareness regarding AHDs. Her Facebook page has additional information on this topic: www.facebook.com/advanceadvice Participants will also be part of an unforgettable experience, as the well planned and organised walk is one of the most scenic routes around Europe. Susan O’Dwyer, Chief Executive Officer, Make-A-Wish said: ‘We are looking for walkers of all capabilities to join us and Walk for Wishes. The total amount to be raised by each participant for the walk is a minimum of €3,500, which includes all cost aspects of the trip.’ Places are limited so if you are interested in joining Make-A-Wish, contact Make-A-Wish Fundraising Officer Mary Quille at mary@makeawish.ie or call the office on 01 205 2012.
Second annual Easter Dublin walking festival The second annual Dublin Walking Festival takes place this Easter weekend the 25th to the 27th March. The festival takes in a selection of routes across the Dublin Mountains, and with walks categorised as easy, moderate or strenuous, there should be something for almost everyone. “This walking festival has been designed for cater for almost everyone, be they young, old, novice or experienced”, said Terry Lambert of Hilltop Treks, the organiser of the festival. “We are using great trails in the Dublin Mountains such as the Dublin Mountains Way, and our friends at Trails and Tales will guide the walk at Bohernabreena and its beautiful reservoir. And with the kind support of South Dublin County Council we have been able to provide family friendly routes for young children too.” Highlights of the festival include a hike to Seahan Mountain for the experienced walker, a Full Moon Walk overlooking the lights of Dublin and the Irish coastline, a photography walk, and the historical walks of the Hell Fire Club and Massy’s Woods with local historian Frank Tracy. “Dublin is blessed to have such great walking areas and access routes on its doorstep”, said Terry. “It’s great fun for everyone and a great excuse to enjoy the great outdoors that Dublin has to offer.”
On the Pink Lady walk, one of the walks in the Festival 14 Senior Times l March - April 2016 l www.seniortimes.ie
For further details and prices visit http://www.hilltoptreks.com/walking-holidays/dublin-walking-festival Or contact Terry Lambert, Hilltop Treks at 087 7849 599
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Society
‘A faith without justice is a false faith’ Nigel Baxter talks to celebrated anti-drug campaigner and social reformer Father Peter McVerry
Father Peter McVerry is one of the best known campaigners on behalf of young people and the homeless in the country, and to listen to him speak about his life and times, it’s easy to appreciate that, for him, this was the only route he was ever going to take. Today the McVerry Trust is a sizeable organisation dedicated to helping the most marginalised in society, from homeless young people to teenagers who are being threatened by drug dealers over debts. Born in Belfast but growing up in Newry, he is now synonymous with our nation’s capital city, but his initial inspiration goes back to his youth in the North. ‘I think I got it from my father,’ he says, describing a central aspect of his childhood. His father was a doctor, ‘at a time before doctors had a practice’, and as such was on call day and night all through the week. Fr McVerry recalls the phone ringing during the wee hours regu-
16 Senior Times l March - April 2016 l www.seniortimes.ie
larly during the week, sometimes two or three times in a single night, and his father getting up without complaint, taking his bag and heading away to wherever he was needed. One of four children, Peter grew up in a financially secure household and he followed in his father footsteps by attending Clongowes College, beginning in 1956 and ending in 1962. He joined the Jesuits the same year and his Jesuitical education in Clongowes prefigured the direction he took in his life, that of vocation on behalf of the less well off. Becoming a religious at that time was ‘very desirable in a family’, he says, unlike today when parents might be more likely to dissuade someone just finishing secondary school from taking a vocation. But for Peter, he was simply following in his own way his father’s lead – ‘a sense of service’. Peter McVerry was finally ordained in 1975 after 13 years which included four years undertaking a degree in chemistry and maths
Father McVerry after he was presented with the French Human Rights Prize
and two years teaching in Belvedere College. But it was the latter - and in particular, time running a youth club at the rear of the campus
for children in nearby flats - that laid the path for his future endeavours, rather than the bunsen burners of the science labs. At the youth club he was running football teams and engaging with local youth. Around him, he says, ‘the commitment to justice was very strong in the seventies, and the Jesuits here said we should be doing something for justice and so we got a flat from Dublin Corporation and they were looking for volunteers’. Peter McVerry was one of those volunteers for the flat in the deprived Summerhill/Sean McDermott St part of the city. He admits that he was ‘appalled at the conditions that people had to live in’ in what was the most disadvantaged part of the country at that time. Keen to make as effective a contribution as he could to the people of the area, Peter lived among the community in the flat. ‘It was clear to me very quickly that working with young people was a priority,’ he says. He recalls how schooling barely extended to the age of 12 in the area at the time, with households in which parents did not have work and children loitering on the street ‘started to do a little bit of robbing’
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Father McVerry pushes comedian Neil Delahunt at charity event.
which, as they became older, became a bigger bit of robbing, invariably ending in prison. So he opened a craft centre and ran employment schemes, but it was coming across a nine-year-old on the street which prompted moves to open a hostel which he then ran for a number of years. With the demolition of much of the older buildings in Dublin city centre in the early 1980s, including Sean McDermott St, meant the onset of the problem which arguably has blighted the city ever since - heroin. ‘Back in 1970 the problem we had was off-licences selling cider to the kids,’ he says, ‘but then heroin got to Dublin and no one knew anything about dirty needles and HIV and Hep C. For kids who had nothing and were miserable heroin seemed to be heaven on earth. Then the kids started dying from heroin and Aids, but it took a long time for the full horror of heroin to become apparent.’ It resulted in Peter and co. opening a residential detox unit, as the waiting lists for treatment in state facilities were simply too long. Yet, despite the horrors that heroin wreaked across swathes of Dublin in the eighties, Peter now believes the situation has deteriorated in the years since. ‘It has got much worse,’ he says, recalling how heroin - while still in use - has become a drug for older people, but younger people replaced it first with crack cocaine, then so-called ‘head shop drugs’ and more recently with crystal meth - all substances that he believes have had an even worse impact on society and which he describes as ‘literally dynamite’. So
while he welcomes moves by the Government to introduce supervised injecting rooms, he believes it should have happened a long time ago. The social causes of drug use are still possibly even worse than they were back then,’ he continues, ‘when there were exits out of poverty. Today, if you are in poverty, you’re stuck in it. He says ‘nixers’ and jobs on building sites used to be a possible avenue for people to better themselves, to extricate themselves from the grind of poverty. Today those jobs are out of reach, and the lure of drugs is as strong as ever. The continuing cycle of poverty and pain would dampen the mood of most people, but not Peter.
but they do if their son or daughter starts using drugs. The only thing that changed me was direct personal contact.’ This, he says, can remove the stigma around homelessness and challenge the ‘myths’ attached to people living in poverty - especially at a time when so many people are homeless or in danger of becoming so, people and families who have always worked or never touched drugs.
‘I think the little you can do for people who are homeless, the little means a lot to them,’ he says. ‘They show their appreciation. The most important thing you can do is treat people with respect.’
Nowadays, such is its size, the McVerry Trust operates almost independent of its founder. ‘It’s got too big for me to manage and I’m too old to manage it so we made the decision 10 years ago to make it as independent of me as possible,’ he says, adding that if he were to pass on, ‘it will carry on on its merry way - which is the way it should be’.
That does not always happen, and helping the most marginalised in society is not always a priority for those in politics or the general public. Yet Peter McVerry believes everyone should take a closer interest in what is going on in the margins. ‘There is an African proverb: if your neighbour is hungry, your chickens aren’t safe,’ he says. People need opportunities, he believes, and it is in everyone’s interests – ‘80 per cent of people in prison come from deprived areas and it costs the tax payer a fortune to keep them there. ‘It was only when I went to live there in Sean McDermott St that I appreciated what life was like for the people there. People in society don’t have a clue and I don’t expect them to,
18 Senior Times l March - April 2016 l www.seniortimes.ie
He believes the same applies to the Travelling Community, citing the actions of residents recently in stopping the setting up of a temporary halting site for some of the family members of those who lost their lives in the Carrickmines fire.
He now spends his days calling into the drop-in centres, talking to the clients, seeing if there’s anything he can do to. He finds that many people still have a ‘strong spiritual sense’ and are receptive to aspects of religion, but ‘not an institutional message’. For his own part, he could never have imagined a life in a parish somewhere, with baptisms and weddings. So he carries on with his drive or a more just society. ‘A faith without justice is a false faith,’ he says. ‘A commitment to a more just society is central to the Gospel, and to the Christian message.’.
Down Cathedral was built on the ancient Hill of Down in the 12th century. It has some marvellous stained glass windows and has recently been renovated and was officially reopened on last St Patrick’s Day by the Archbishop of Canterbury.
John West health promotion
The importance of fish in your diet
At John West, we have been helping consumers to get fish goodness through our extensive range of quality products for decades. As you are aware as part of a healthy diet, it is recommended to eat fish twice a week, and oil-rich fish at least once a week. But why? Healthy eyes, healthy minds Did you know your brain is mostly made out of fat? Take away the water and most of what you are left with is actually fat. About 60% of the fats in the brain are omega-3 with DHA, a type of omega-3 found in fish, being the main type. Omega-3 fats are essential for healthy brain development both in the womb they also play a role in maintaining normal brain function in adults. Oil-rich fish is a key source of the omega-3 fats EPA and DHA. Tinned fish like salmon, sardines and mackerel are all great places to add omega-3 to your diet. But the benefits of omega-3s go way beyond the brain. The omega-3 DHA also contributes to the maintenance of normal vision. Heart When it comes to the heart, omega-3s have even more benefits! EPA and DHA contribute to the normal function of the heart*, helping to maintain normal blood pressure** and even helping to keep blood triglyceride levels normal***. Tryglycerides are a type of fat found in your blood that is thought to contribute to heart disease at high levels. 20 Senior Times l March - April 2016 l www.seniortimes.ie
Bones Vitamin D helps your body to absorb calcium and calcium contributes to the maintenance of normal bone and teeth. Usually, your body makes vitamin D when sun shines on your skin but in Ireland we get so little sunlight that many people are deficient in vitamin D. You need at least 5 micrograms of vitamin D every day and oil-rich fish is a great place to get it. 100g of tuna has 3.6mcg of vitamin D, 100g of sardines have 5.6 mcg and 100g of red salmon has a whopping 17mcg. The great advantage of tinned fish is that the bones are easy to digest – this means you can get calcium from tinned salmon and sardines as well as vitamin D. Tinned sardines are very rich in calcium which means you can get 2/3 of your daily calcium in one serving. Vitamin D and calcium together help to reduce the loss of bone mineral in post-menopausal women making tinned fish a great food to include in your daily diet.**** So go on! Visit john-west.ie/our-recipes to see for yourself how easy, quick and convenient it is to create a fantastic lunch or evening meals using John West’s wide range of fish. Get inspired by the John West recipes and start cooking fish this week. It is easy, and more importantly it is good for you! *The benefit is obtained with a daily intake of 250mg of EPA and DHA. **The benefit is obtained with a daily intake of 3g of EPA and DHA ***The benefit is obtained with a daily intake of 2g of DHA ****Women aged over 50 and the beneficial effect is obtained with a daily intake of at least 1200mg of calcium and 20micrograms of vitamin D from all sources. 100g tin of mackerel has 3900mg of Omega-3. 100g tin of red salmon has 1500mg. 100g tin sardines has 1200mg of omega-3. (Source: McCance and Widdowson (2002). The Composition of Foods Sixth Summary Edition).
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Literary Dublin
Joyce, O’Casey and 1916
Who better to give us a picture of an era than those who lived through them? When that era is the Dublin of 1916, two of Ireland’s internationally renowned writers, James Joyce and Sean O’Casey were strongly inspired by their native city. Lorna Hogg traces their activities leading up to 1916. James Joyce was born in February 2nd 1882, at 41, Brighton Square in Dublin’s genteel Rathgar. The man who would be described as writer of ‘the greatest novel of the twentieth century’ was an avid reader from an early stage. He was influenced by Byron and the Classics and later, Shakespeare and Wilde. However, his home life – in which he would be joined by six brothers and three sisters, has been described as `chaotic’, complete with an alcoholic father. John Joyce was an ambitious man, determined that his eldest living son should become a gentleman, and managed to get James into Clongowes, then the school for established upper class and Catholic gentry. Next came Belvedere, where Joyce proved an able enough student to later enter UCD. Joyce was a good singer in a musical family, and very interested in music, influenced by Feis Coil, ballads and religious chants, through to opera and traditional songs. It became clear that he did not fit easily into his contemporary society. Yet many youthful experiences inform his novels, from theatres and shops to individuals, excursions and walks. As a young man, he had a fight in St. Stephen’s Green, where he was helped by a man called Alfred Hunter. Along with his wife, Hunter provided the character inspirations for Leopold and Molly Bloom at 7, Eccles Street. For a time Joyce lived in The Martello Tower at Sandycove, with his close friend Oliver St. John Gogarty – who became Buck Mulligan in Ulysses. Joyce was especially close to his brother Stanislaus, and the two often walked the city streets, day and night. As a budding writer, he also spent time in Paris and went to London, determined to meet Yeats. Whilst the two came from different backgrounds and had different temperaments, Yeats helped Joyce with introductions. Lady Gregory also helped, resulting in him writing for the Dublin Daily Express. 22 Senior Times l March - April 2016 l www.seniortimes.ie
In 1904, he famously met Galway chambermaid Nora Barnacle on Nassau Street, and a great love affair started. His career was also developing - some of his stories from ‘Dubliners’ went into print. However, Joyce was anxious to escape the narrow confines of the Dublin at that time. Aided by funds from Lady Gregory, the two left for Trieste, where Joyce tutored English. Various family members came over to stay, and the couple had two children, Giorgio and Lucia. The young family spent time in Zurich and Budapest, with trips home. However, after a row with a Dublin publisher in 1912, over the manuscript for his first collection, `Dubliners’, Joyce left Ireland for good. His students introduced him to some wealthy patrons, who provided Joyce with the financial security to write. He also lectured, and made a name for himself with his novel, ‘Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man.’ However, it was his work ‘Ulysses’ (1922) which attracted outrage, especially from the Catholic clergy, then acclaim, followed by censorship and then piracy. Joyce’s innovative style, utilising ‘stream of consciousness,’ literary allusions and free dream association, gained him fame as an avant garde writer, and as the man who revolutionised 20th century fiction. He married Nora in 1931, and the family lived between Trieste and Paris, until his death in Zurich on 13th January, 1941. His grave is in Fluntern Cemetery.
Joycean trails Start at the Joycean Centre, 35, North Great Georges Street, for details of literary exhibitions and events. North Hardwick Street appeared in ‘The Boarding House’ and the bells from St. George’s Church, Hardwick Place also appear in his works. Belvedere College is nearby, as is No 7
Eccles Street, site of Bloom’s journey to buy kidneys. There is a statue of the writer in North Earl Street, and The Gresham Hotel features in ‘The Dead.’
Dublin ‘literary’ pubs
Gardiner Street leads southwards to Railway Street, one of the last remaining names of old Monto, home to Bella Cohen, who featured in ‘Ulysses’. The Abbey Theatre, on the site of the original building, and Prince’s Street, where Bloom worked in Freeman’s Journal, were well known to him. Batchelor’s Walk and O’Connell Street were also familiar sights.
The Bleeding Horse, Upper Camden St., mentioned by O’Casey
Southside, The National Library, where he studied, Merrion Square and Grafton Street along with Nassau Street, where he met Nora, are mustsees. It’s an easy walk to the DART station in Pearse Street, for a trip out to Sandycove and the James Joyce Tower, and on to Bray, where the family lived for a time.
O’Casey: the self-made man of letters Sean O’Casey, dramatist, memorist and socialist, was born John Casey (sometimes ‘Cassidy’) on 30th March, 1880, into a Church of Ireland family living in ‘genteel poverty’ at 85, Upper Dorset street, Dublin. His father died when he was six, and from then, his life was one of constant moves around the city, with his seven (although he claimed twelve) siblings. After school, he worked in a shop, Easons and also with the nearby Northern Railways. Driven by social awareness, the Celtic Revival and growing sense of nationalism, John Casey gaelicised his name to Sean O’Casey. He became interested in the Nationalist cause, joined the Irish Transport and General Workers Union, and took part in the Lockout. O’Casey lived as a child at 9, Innisfallen Parade and later at 25, Hawthorn Terrace and 18 Abercorn Avenue. His memories of life and Dublin at that time are recalled in his six volume autobiography. They detailing the city and its life and times, from splendid horse drawn processions to the Vice regal court, to the poverty and street life. His background, contemporary Irish politics, and experiences of friends and family all inspired O’Casey to write. After several rejections from the Abbey Theatre, in 1923 ` In the Shadow of a Gunman,’ the first in his Dublin trilogy of plays was staged there. A tragicomedy, it was set in Mountjoy Square where he lived for a time. `Juno and the Paycock,’ staged in 1924, was another tragicomedy, brought the Dublin dialect onstage. In 1926, ‘The Plough and the Stars’ had a dramatic reception, with rioting in the audience, some of whom were upset at O’Casey’s ironical interpretation of the Rising. Speaking for the Irish working class, his plays aroused both controversy and international interest. ‘ Juno’, was staged in London and O’Casey also won the prestigious Hawthornden Prize. In London to accept it, he met and fell in love with glamorous and successful actress, Dubliner Eileen Carey, (her stage name). O’Casey moved to London, the couple married in 1927 and raised three children. They moved to Totnes in Devon in 1938, where they lived until O’Casey’s death on September 18th, 1964.
The People’s playwright O’Casey’s Northside Dublin begins at birthplace in Upper Dorset Street. In the East Wall, a community centre is named for him and plaques mark his homes at 25, Hawthorn Terrace and 9, Innisfallen Parade. Connolly (previously Amiens Street) Station, Mountjoy Square, and of course, The Abbey Theatre, are must-sees. Finish up with one of the best ways to experience and celebrate both writers’ lives and work - a literary pub crawl!
The Bailey , Duke Street, popular with Joyce
The Brazen Head, Lower Bridge St, features in Ulysses Davy Byrnes, Duke Street, popular with Joyce. Fitzgeralds, Norseman J.J. O’Neills, Temple Bar, feature in Ulysses and Dubliners. Horse and Tram Mooneys ,Eden Quay. Features in Ulysses Larry O’Rourkes, Eccles Street, features in Ulysses Oval, Middle Abbey Street, features in Ulysses Mulligan, Poolbeg Street, features in Dubliners. More information Dublin Writers Museum, Parnell Square: www.writersmuseum.com James Joyce Centre: www.jamesjoyce.ie Walks: www.visitdublin.com www.dublinpubcrawl.com www.walkingtours.ie
We are seeking to expand our team of Community Fundraisers in 2016. Would you like to join us? We have an opportunity for someone in your area to help us raise funds by canvassing for donors (who are willing to support us through regular monthly donations) and also to get involved in a number of other community based fundraising activities. We are looking for a committed, energetic and enthusiastic person to support our essential work. If you feel this would interest you and you have about 20 hours or more per week to spare, then this could be an ideal opportunity. We offer commission and training and we are looking for the right person to join our team, in your area, for the long-term.
For further information, please contact Paul McCarthy on 086 036 7553, paul.mccarthy@hospicefoundation.ie
Health
How to win by a nose With Spring approaching hay fever sufferers prepare for the worst. But what is hay fever and how can it be managed? What triggers hay fever? There are more than 30 types of pollen and 20 types of spores which can trigger hay fever (seasonal allergic rhinitis). Grass pollen is the most common (in particular Timothy grass). Tree pollen can also cause problems, in particular elder trees, horse chestnut, hazel and most commonly birch. Weeds like plantains, mugwort, nettles and docks are triggers, as are wind-pollinated flowers, for example the daisy family. Spores are also produced by fungi (for example mushrooms) and moulds (for example compost heaps). Moulds can also be the fungi that grow on decaying food, dead leaves and walls and windows in damp houses. They produce millions of spores which float about in the air and provoke allergic reactions. For some people, symptoms are triggered by just one or two of the above and others are affected by more. Asthma and hay fever If you have asthma hay fever can make your symptoms worse, so the most important step you can take ahead of the pollen season is to make sure your asthma is under control. If you don’t already have an Asthma Action Plan to help you manage your asthma then get one today by contacting the Asthma Society of Ireland’s Adviceline at 1850 44 54 64 or visiting asthma.ie
A big problem is that hay fever sufferers often don’t start taking medication until the symptoms start to occur. Hay fever treatment should be taken regularly and before symptoms begin, as it is more difficult to control symptoms that are already well established. Only taking medications occasionally on the worst days is much less effective. Hay fever can make asthma symptoms worse and people with asthma may not recognise the warning signs of an attack, especially when the symptoms of asthma and hay fever are so similar, and both may be triggered by pollen. Preparation is vital, says the CEO of the Asthma Society of Ireland, Sharon Cosgrove: “It is worrying that people frequently fail to prepare for the onslaught of the hay fever season, leaving themselves at risk from a reaction to pollen and other allergens. The advice is simple: check pollen levels before you leave the house either at www.asthma.ie or using our free iPhone app Asthma Coach. Parents of children who suffer from hay fever should make sure they have all they need to deal with hay fever this upcoming spring and summer.” The Asthma Society of Ireland’s top tips for managing the condition: • Be prepared - visit your doctor or nurse to put a plan in place for managing your asthma and allergies.
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• Don’t wait for your hay fever symptoms to start; you can start taking nasal steroid sprays and non-drowsy antihistamines now. • Get your asthma under control – the best way to manage any asthma trigger, including pollen is to have your asthma well controlled. Take your preventer medication daily, as prescribed and make sure you are taking your inhaler properly. • Keep an eye on the pollen count at www.asthma.ie • Know your triggers and reduce your exposure to them if you can- simple strategies like washing hair before bed, changing from your outdoor clothes before entering the bedroom, keeping pets out of bedrooms and keeping car windows closed on the journey to school can make a noticeable difference. • It’s vital that you have your asthma reliever inhaler with you during all times in case you experience worsening symptoms. For more information visit the Asthma Society of Ireland website https:// www.asthma.ie/get-help/living-well-withasthma/hay-fever-rhinitis/hay-feverrhinitis
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Cetriz for the relief of hayfever symptoms1 Date of preparation: February 2016. FADGP-162-01. Contains Cetirizine. Always read the leaflet carefully. 1. CETRIZ SmPC.
DIGITAL TRICKS Interview by Maretta Dillon
Michael Judd will be appearing in The Importance of Being Oscar at Bewley’s Theatre, Powerscourt Centre, Dublin 2 for five weeks in June 2016.
encounters with new technology Michael Judd, a professional actor in his mid-50s, has been working in Irish theatre film and TV since the 1980s. Like many others in that decade, he emigrated to the US and the New York stage in particular, where he worked for a period of 14 years. While in New York, he co-founded the theatre company Banba’s Crown with his wife Sinead Colreavy and four other actors. In 2002, he returned to Ireland and has taken on many roles including that of Oscar Wilde in his and Sinead’s own adaptation of Micheál macLiammóir The Importance of Being Oscar.
Michael is also a recent graduate of PRIME – an initiative of Irish Theatre Institute (ITI) in association with Age & Opportunity’s Bealtaine Festival – which offers bespoke training to a group of older theatre actors to allow them further develop their own professional skills including their digital skills.
are aspects of this business that you are totally unaware of’. That opened my eyes. PRIME was very instrumental in sharpening my skills in the digital skills because the whole profession of acting has changed.
Do you think that PRIME was a help to you?
What is the most important change for you in terms of how you use digital technology in your acting career?
A friend of mine told me about PRIME. We had worked together and I knew he was very focussed on his career. ‘Michael’, he said, ‘you have to pull your horns in and realise that there
When on the PRIME course, we met with casting agent Maureen Hughes and she said to me ‘Michael’, I know who you are but you don’t have any online presence. I won’t think of you
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when casting someone if I don’t see you online’. I now know that creating an online presence is important. You have to keep updating yourself, out of sight out of mind. What do you think about the new requirement to tape audition pieces? They are new methods of communicating with people. Prior to digital, face to face auditioning was usual but now I can upload pieces directly to casting agents. People only see you now when they have viewed your work online. You might have been called in before but you could have been completely wrong for the part. Now I can do showreels of work I have done.
Washington. There’s also great talk radio from New York. A friend of mine, Malachy McCourt, does an art programme every Wednesday which keeps me abreast of what’s happening there. That’s another thing about digital. We set up a theatre company when I was in New York and have recently revived it. We have a website and now I can SKYPE my acting friends. We can talk and work out ideas from home but there is nothing like meeting face to face. The technology is a valuable tool but I know some actors don’t want to go down that route but you have to if you want to remain viable. I have to get a smartphone soon! Final thought
Do you think this is a better way of working? With digital you can send your stuff over to the UK for example and they will only call you if you are on a narrow list. Before this you would have had to be resident there to look for work but digital has opened up more areas to work in. I have done voice overs in Ireland but now if they are looking for a genuine Irish voice in America, it’s possible to record your voice and submit to specialised websites. The acting profession is still very competitive but now you have a wider net of opportunities to choose from. What digital technology do you use? I do have an internet radio and I love it. I can listen to public radio from
I heard the musician, will.i.am, say recently on The Voice that it’s never been an easier time to upload your stuff – do it, don’t be waiting for permission. The older you get you do realise that you have a uniqueness; you have more to talk about. You never grow old in showbusiness! Michael will be appearing in The Importance of Being Oscar at Bewley’s Theatre, Powerscourt Centre, Dublin 2 for five weeks in June 2016. More details on www.banbascrowntheatre.com For more information about PRIME: Continuing Professional Development (CPD)- an initiative for older actors, please see www.irishtheatreinstitute.ie
Health
How to eat right for your age Dr John Collier advises
50+ers often report a renewed sense of purpose as they let go of earlier self-images and look ahead to the next phase. They’re “over themselves” and don’t feel so pushed and pulled by many stressors that 20-somethings might struggle with. In your 50s, some physical signs of aging are definitely starting to pop up. • Joints are now creaking. Formerly lean parts may be squishy, even if you’re fit. • Your circadian rhythm may have shifted. While you partied to 5 AM in your 20s, you’re now finding 5 AM is your wake-up time. • If you’re female, you’re noticing menopause symptoms; if you’re male, you’re noticing lower testosterone.
• Your exercise has to do with rehabbing injuries and controlling inflammation. Follow these nutritional habits to keep yourself healthy and fit. • Adjust your caloric intake as your metabolism continues to slow down. • Protein is not just for athletes! Try to get a min of 50g/day to keep your muscles working and stop muscles loss. • Make an effort to get essential fatty acids to keep your brain sharp (Omega-3 fatty acids in particular). • Try evidence-based anti-inflammatory supplementation, such as: garlic, turmeric, cocoa, tea and berries. • Watch your blood sugar levels and stay moving. Regular activity helps keep muscles strong as well as regulate glucose levels to prevent Type 2 diabetes. • Keep on enjoying your favourite fitness activities, but factor in more time for mobility. • Focus on nutrition, towards quality food choices and prevention of chronic disease, such as protein-rich foods and nutrient-dense foods such as fruits and vegetables. Fibre from these are important too to keep things moving! • Combating isolation is crucial as there is a direct link connecting isolation with malnourishment. It is much less motivating to cook for one! So invite friends over, call in on family or join a dinner club and make sure there is healthy food around you the whole time! Dr John Collier is CEO of www.Lifekitchen.ie. ‘Have your weekly box of fresh and seasonal meals, carefully prepared from selected recipes. Choose your menu today, have it delivered and eat better’.
Travel
Go racing and much more in County Kildare Lorna Hogg on the charms and attractions of the ‘horsey’ county
The Irish National Stud is a wonderful attraction that symbolises all that is great about County Kildare, the beating heart of Ireland’s thoroughbred industry. It is a unique attraction of outstanding natural beauty and home to some of the most magnificent horses. The Irish National Stud is far more than just a centre of equine excellence. It is also home to some of Ireland’s finest natural treasures. The breathtakingly beautiful Japanese Gardens traces the passage of a soul from birth to death and beyond. Visitors can also savour the serene St. Fiachra’s Garden, a stunningly raw representation of our country’s singular landscape. From horses to horticulture, the Irish National Stud & Gardens offers you a unique experience that can be enjoyed at your own leisure or as part of a guided tour.
Kildare. Racing, and so much more. A landscape including peaceful canal walks, with top rated food at riverside pubs: wooded villages, rich pasture land and stately homes: superb gardens, an internationally renowned golf course and luxurious hotels: top shopping, heritage walks and award winning food. With excellent access to all, via two motorways and railway lines, a canal and regular bus services, you have ideal destinations for holidays, short breaks and days out. County Kildare is known worldwide for its horses, plus their racing, breeding and training. The sport of Kings and Emirs rules here, with 1,977 hectares of Curragh plains and surrounding lush countryside dotted with meticulously maintained studs and stables. Million euro horses live here, in luxury that we can only dream of, with walk in swimming pools, plus physiotherapists and nutritionists on call to maintain their potential!
The results can be seen at the county’s many racing festivals. Punchestown is the home of Irish National Hunt racing, and the Irish National Hunt Festival, 26th -30th April, is its highlight. The La Touche Cross Country Race, the Champion Hurdle Day and the Gold Cup are included – along with plenty of celebrations. Check Festival Panoramic Restaurant deals for details.
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The Irish Derby at The Curragh is an international favourite, and this year’s Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby Festival runs from June 24-26th. As they say, ‘party in style’ with racing, fashion, music and entertainment. Food choices range from the luxurious private hospitality packages, to artisan and local food choices in the Derby Food Paddock. The most stylish ladies will compete here – this year’s prize is worth
A WONDERFUL EXPERIENCE FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY
From horses to horticulture, the Irish National Stud & Gardens offers a unique experience that may be enjoyed as part of a guided tour or at your own leisure. • Guided tours of the stud & gardens • World Famous Japanese Gardens • St. Fiachra’s Garden • Horse Museum • Newborn Foals • Restaurant
• Children’s Playground • Free Coach/Car Park • Meet our Living Legends; Beef Or Salmon, Kicking King, Hardy Eustace, Moscow Flyer & Rite Of Passage
Irish National Stud & Gardens, Tully, Kildare, Co. Kildare Visit www.irishnationalstud.ie to purchase tickets online
T: +353 (0) 45 521617 E: reservations@instourism.net
Open 7 Days: 9.30am - 5pm from 1st February to 6th November. Located 30 miles south of Dublin in Kildare, off the M7, Exit 13 onto the R415. Senior Times Zincuflex advert.pdf
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€20,000. There is a wide variety of racing packages on offer, from race day tickets to Race and Stay hotel deals. With a racing season from March to October, the Curragh Racecourse has a wide programme. Classics include the Irish Guineas on May 21st/22nd, Irish Oaks on July 16th/17th, and Cesarewitch in October. The Irish National Stud & Gardens has long been a favourite with visitors. However, wide coverage as part of the State Visit of Queen Elizabeth in 2011 showcased its attractions, both at home and internationally. See how champions have been made here for over a century, with the stallions at Tully’s famous Stud Farm. Visit the Living Legends team, including Moscow Flyer, Hardy Eustace and Rite of Passage. Pride of place at the Horse Museum is, of course, reserved for the skeleton of Arkle, the greatest steeplechaser to have lived anywhere and at any time. The National Stud has tours throughout the day, and also has an excellent restaurant, noted for its baking.
Gardeners time St. Fiachra’s Garden, created in 1999, complements the Japanese Gardens perfectly. It pays tribute to the Irish natural landscape in its basic state – woodland, wetland, water, the world known to the early monastic movement. Burtown House, near Athy, shows the dediction and continuity of care over three generations in an artist’s garden. Known for its snowdrops, later in the season it has herbaceous borders, shrubberies, rock garden and a yew walk. Don’t miss the excellent Gallery Cafe, supplied by the organic kitchen garden. Leixlip Castle, home to the Hon. Desmond Guinness, at the confluence of the rivers Liffey and Rye, is surrounded by gardens of his creation. Entered by a gate mentioned in an eighteenth century Dublin book, the layout also owes much to his wife Penny. Leixlip Castle, especially noted for its splendid Brussels tapestries, and a beautiful large eighteenth century Doll’s House, now welcomes visitors, with regular opening hours, but check beforehand. Tel. 01 6244430
Golfing masters Ever since the Ryder Cup was played at the K Club in 2006, its course has been on golfing wish lists. With the luxurious Kildare Hotel, Spa and Country Club at hand, there is something for all tastes. Luxury golfing packages are available, overnighting at the hotel, with dinner and playing a championship course. Excellent golf is also available at Moyvalley Hotel and Golf Club.
The great outdoors Kildare has many peaceful and unspoiled walking areas, especially its canal towpaths, many with friendly pubs offering good food. Pretty towpath stretches include Sallins to Robertstown, and circular walks from Lowtown. Complete the experience with a canal boat day trip, from Barrowline Cruisers at Vicarstown. The Bog of Allen Nature Centre, near Rathangan, encourages peatland education and research – it’s possible to walk right into the Bog, or take workshop. If you’re looking for a family day out, Lullymore Heritage and Discovery Park offers a road train even a Funky Forest, whilst The Millennium Maze, near Prosperous, is perfect for getting lost! Mondello has a full race calendar, and also offers the chance to drive a Formula 1 style car. Over 2-3 hours, you’ll receive instruction, practice in a saloon car, then follow a pace car and then drive 10 timed laps in a Formula 1 style single seater. However, if your preference is for the 1903 Gordon Bennett Race speed of 49 mph, follow the famous race route over the Athy to Kildare stage, www.gordonbennettroute.com with breaks for sightseeing.
Shopping breaks Newbridge Silverware has a wide range of silverware and jewellery and its 2016 collection has just been released. Get some inspiration at the Museum of Style, one of the Ireland’s top attractions. Costumes worn by Diana Princess of Wales, Princess Grace of Monaco, Audrey Hepburn, and Marilyn Monroe are just a few of the clothes of display. Make time for their
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excellent cafe, popular for lunches and teas. Kildare Village offers an excellent range of discounted goods from top rated designer stores, including labels such as Anya Hindmarch, Barbour, Wolford, Reiss and L.K. Bennett. There are also cafes to suit all tastes. You can go by train and connecting shuttle bus, or with Dublin Coach with their M7 and N7 routes.
History and heritage Horses, golf and shopping just not your thing? Kildare also has a wide range of historical and heritage attractions, ranging through Quaker, Steam and Military Museums, toa Round Tower and Pewter Mill. The Quaker Museum, Ballitore was once home to the Leadbeater family, who settled here from Yorkshire in the seventeenth century, and the Meeting House is still in use. Castletown House, Leixlip, and the country’s finest Palladian style mansion, remains a popular local attraction, as does its Courtyard Cafe. Kildare Town Heritage Centre tells the story of the county in a multi media presentation. You can also vist St. Brigid’s Cathedral and the Round Tower, whilst nearby Moone High Cross is one of the finest in Ireland. The craft of pewter making was once well established in Ireland, and was recently revived at the Pewter Mill at Timolin. If your interests include family research or things military, the Curragh Military Museum has plenty to intrigue. See where recruits trained for the British Army for almost a century, learn about the famous long serving Brown Bess musket, and the local environment. Those who love steam engines will enjoy demonstrations, ranging from equipment from an old Dublin laundry machine and steam powered electric lighting machines, plus inventor’s models at the Steam Museum at Straffan.
For details of hotels, events, festivals, museums and attractions, go to www.intokildare.ie
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Interior decor
Aine O’Connor explains how the right colours in our home can affect our mood and outlook.
Colour affects every part of our lives, be it at home or at our favourite pub or restaurant. Colour can change our mood and dramatically change our attitudes to the space we live in. Our choice of colour says a lot about who we are and our outlook- it’s a reflection of character and personality. As an effective means of adding an inexpensive dynamic to your environment, a coat of paint can be the difference between your having cabin fever or contentedly hibernating tones and softwinter. greysHappily, for for Neutral the remainder of the spring, and fromburst DFSof fresh withthis its sofa sense of cushions renewal and energy is just around the corner. After months of dark greens in evergreen shrubbery there’s the promise of the bright limes of new growth. To bring that spring renewal indoors, a fast refresher of your home décor is a worthwhile weekend project to get you out of the doldrums. Perhaps you’ve embraced the greys of midwinter skies and have echoed the light open airiness of bright, pearly greys in your kitchen or sitting room. Or maybe you identify more readily with the elegant decorum of darker hues such as pewter and charcoal. Whether you opt for the cocooning atmosphere of predominantly dark grey on the walls and cabinetry facades, grey has been the neutral of choice for a number of years now, having thoroughly supplanted the beige and buttermilk tones of brown as the grounding colour for upmarket aspirational decorating
schemes. Seasonally ousted last summer by hot pinks, grey resumed its primary position with the coming of autumn and the advent of winter this year. Coupled with a bright accent colour such as yellow, it’s a combination that’s at once soothing and restful, while inherently cheerful and dynamic. Complimented with an appropriate lighting scheme, grey is the investment colour of choice when considering revamping your home. Although as with any creative project, the sky isn’t necessarily the limit and your personal preferences will dictate your ultimate choice of colour palette, there’s a plethora of furniture, accessories and home décor in the grey/yellow combination at the moment. Depending on what got done at Christmas you may be looking at refreshing the dining room for some upcoming Spring entertaining; the sitting room for the post-prandial shenanigans, or the bedrooms, all the while knowing that the object of the refresher project is to spruce up the décor and simultaneously return it to a modern incarnation of what the house looked like when you were happiest in it . Maybe you’re adding oomph to your heating system with a stove in the fireplace, or capacity to your kitchen for larger numbers of people than previously, so have a look at fentonfires.ie for its collection of wood-burning or multi-fuel stoves, or oconnorkitchens.ie for hand-crafted kitchen cabinetry. If you already
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Setting the right tone have a cream or vanilla primary colour on your walls you may get away with investing in soft furnishings to embrace the fashionable trend to grey greatness. See here pictured the luxe Geo bedding set for on trend bedrooms from Next Interiors with its geometric patterns (a key motif for fashionable interiors) on the bedlinen. Texture-wise think ‘metallic’ as it adds a lustre to the surface that reflects light and sparks light to animate a room. Also by adding a tactile interest to the materials you choose to surround you, the metallic option is a good counterpoint to the furry, snuggly, hairy, fleecy fabrics the grandkids love and deposit throughout your home. Such as the grey embellished cushion pictured. Grey and yellow is a particularly rich palette with hints of silver in the grey and gold in the yellow either as a rose gold like a copper or, yellow gold, or even a duller manila, to lift the base note. The colour psychologists at Kildare based-Irish company Colortrend recommend yellow for its optimism. ‘At Colortrend, we recommend yellow for mental stimulation, to activate memory and encourage communication. It’s great for creating feelings of joy, energy, confidence, imagination and optimism. Yellow sings of playfulness, spontaneity, light, laughter and communication. Yellow inspires intuition, innovation, aspiration and warmth,’ grounded in framework colours such as Grafton Port for depth, grey and yellow could be a rich starting point for your DIY renovation this year. Vivid colour schemes However, never dismiss the powerful attributes of a well-chosen vivid colour scheme. When living with bold choices is a badge of honour and pride for you, you can invest in equally bold statement colours for specific functions in your home. For instance, the Colortrend psychology gurus have pinpointed an orange: Squeeze; from the Colortrend Interior Colour Collection on a feature wall in a teenager’s bedroom to help inspire ambition and determination while retaining a feeling of warmth and security. Think of it for areas in your home in which you’d like to feel energized,
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“orange stimulates our appetites and our desire to be active. Orange encourages us to be social and generous too! An orange can be used to suggest charisma, encouragement, motivation, excitement, health and fitness. Orange says you are person of assurance, independence, ambition, action, and success.” To minimize the disruptive chaos during the renovations, turn to a kitchen and bedroom cabinetry expert such as newcastledesign. ie to devise storage, a coherent plan for camp beds perhaps, temporary sleepover mattresses or settle beds that can be rolled under a built-in single bedframe and bespoke cabinetry that elegantly marries contemporary functions with classical design in painted kitchen or bedroom furniture. When one of the reasons you love the winter months is that it’s shooting season, you may already have given up the ghost and no longer call your utility room the utility room as it’s been taken over by the family’s collection of sturdy all-weather boots, so the first point of call for anyone coming into the house is to get off the wet muddy footwear and have a collection of warm dry toasty socks to hand, and hard-wearing painted cabinetry that’s resistant to scuff marks with perhaps underfloor heating to add a touch of luxury to the purely functional boot room might be your trigger for finding new tiles to kit out the old scullery (now boot room) floor. Have a look at trunksurfaces.com for some pretty spiffy, limed herringbone hardwood or stone floors
for inspiration. Happily for those of us still in love with walnut shades of hardwood surfaces, the new greys complement the rich tones inherent in walnut grain and again add another layer of deluxe decor that’s disproportionate to the relatively small outlay or expense involved in acquiring it. Clever cheats are probably all over the designer delights found in the Dunnes Stores homeware collections by Paul Costello, and are baking up a confectionary storm with the bakeware in Helen James’ Considered Collection, not to mention the artful charm of Carolyn Donnelly’s Eclectic collection of accessories and furniture. There’s something for everyone here whether you err towards
Muted yellow sofa and retro 1950’s style table and cabinet from Marks & Spencer
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urban or rustic themes as the primary expression of your stylishly cosy home. Urbane rather than urban is probably the keyword for the Harvey Norman range of 50s-inspired shapes in its Fable collection of sofas that are available in a range of sizes from two-seater through two and a half seater to three seater, so works both as a coherent suite of furniture or as a single accent piece in your living room or reception area such as your hall. Its smart silhouette is thanks to its pocket spring seats that offer firm support and its wooden angled feet echo its retro design.
Control your home heating & hot water on the move With Hive from Bord Gáis Energy
Do you ever find yourself wondering if you left the hot water on at home, or wishing that the heating would be on to welcome you home on a cold day?
Hive Active Heating™ from Bord Gáis Energy is a smart thermostat that lets you control your home heating and hot water through your mobile, tablet or laptop, making these worries a thing of the past. Hive has a sleek chrome finish with an intuitive LED display, and fits neatly into any home, contemporary or classic. Heating can be controlled by the steel dial, as well as through the app. The on-demand controls are supplemented with a variety of innovative and practical features such as childlocking, temperature control and scheduling. There’s also the clever Geolocation feature which alerts you if you’ve gone out and
left the heating on, putting an end to heating an empty house when no one is home. Hive is available to anyone on the gas network with a broadband connection*; you don’t have to be a Bord Gáis Energy customer. Hive is installed by a Bord Gáis Energy Service Engineer. Download the app, and you’ll find you never have to worry about your heating and hot water timers again. Also, by heating the home only when it’s needed, Hive can help improve energy efficiency and save you up to ¤120 per year on energy bills.†
Fully installed, the Hive kit, including the app download, will be available for a one-off cost of €299. For more information or to arrange an installation, visit bordgaisenergy.ie/hive or call 1850 427 131. * Installation and compatible boiler required. Broadband connection required and compatible smartphone. † Saving is based on annual gas usage of 13,800kWh at the Bord Gáis Energy standard rate on 02.06.15 when entry-level remote heating controls are installed as per SEAI Energy Savings. Savings are dependent on customer behaviour change in their usage.
The exquisite glamour of sharp tailoring as popularized by the TV series Madmen got an extra lease of life with the global release of a ‘frock film’ starring Cate Blanchett and Rooney Mara about the 1950s psychological thriller writer Patricia Highsmith. Prepare to see much of the mid-century design icons throughout the high street collections so everything from your sofas to your foot stools will have a 50s sensibility and a 21st century twist. Tan leather could fulfil the accent colour in your own take on a grey and yellow theme and your home will be at the cutting edge of retro interior design. Striking design and coloured duvet from Next
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For more information and to book, contact Sue Booth-Forbes. Telephone: 027 74441 E-mail: anamcararetreat@gmail.com Web site: www.anamcararetreat.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/anamcararetreat/?ref=hl
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An Post GPO Witness History visitor attraction on schedule to open for Easter 2016
History
The extensively damaged GPO in 1916
One of the inter-active features of the visitor attraction
An Post is ‘on track’ to open a new €7 million GPO Witness History visitor attraction for Easter to commemorate the events of 1916. The attraction is an interactive visitor facility bringing history to life though technology, video, sound and authentic artefacts. The centrepiece of the visitor attraction will be an immersive semi-circular audiovisual space which will put visitors right inside the GPO during the five days in which it was both the military command centre, and the seat of the Provisional Irish Government. Aline FitzGerald, General Manager on behalf of Shannon Heritage, who will manage the facility, said, ‘The aim of the centre is to give visitors a real sense of what it was like to be in the GPO and Dublin at that time and to reflect on how those days shaped Ireland in the 100 years since. We are looking forward to welcoming our domestic and overseas visitors to this wonderful new visitor centre and pre-bookings are very strong at this point.’
The Rising Immersive Audiovisual Space
• Selection of the art music and literature inspired by, or created in reaction to, the 1916 Rising.
• An immersive semicircular audiovisual space puts visitors right inside the GPO during the Rising
• Touch screen allows visitors to debate the relevance of the ideals of the 1916 Proclamation.
• Digital recreation of Dublin as it was in 1916: Immersive street level experience and ‘God’s Eye’ strategic overview of events
• Visitors encouraged to reflect on their own vision for the next hundred years of the Irish Republic.
• Feel the full terror of the devastating British artillery bombardment
Advance tickets booking system
Features of the attractions include:
Family Orientated Educational Activities • Hands-on activity area • Dressed set of the GPO • Print proclamations and bulletins • Learn morse code • Send messages across a barricaded street via a pulley • Sort letters and monitor phonecalls • Compose newspaper reports A Contested Legacy • Chart the problematic relationship between the two sides of the divide in the 100 years hence.
38 Senior Times l March - April 2016 l www.seniortimes.ie
In preparation for the €7 million Centre’s opening in March, a booking system enabling people to book advance tickets is ‘live’ on www.gpowitnesshistory.ie The booking system allows visitors to secure their tickets well in advance, affording Irish and international tourists alike the opportunity to schedule this immersive and entertaining cultural experience amongst the wide range of delights that Dublin has to offer visitors of all ages and interests. www.gpowitnesshistory.ie provides details on the visitor centre - one of the Government’s key 2016 commemoration projects - the exhibits, an outline of the role the GPO had to play in the 1916 Rising as well as a broader history of the GPO itself.
Are you Compassionate, competent, committed, creative, courageous. Sage needs volunteers to provide support and advocacy services with and for people in all care settings. Training, support and supervision will be provided to all successful applicants. Advocacy is a process of empowerment to ensure the wishes and preferences of the person are heard.
For more information and an application form log on to www.sage.thirdageireland.ie/recruitment Or contact: Michelle Rooney Education, Training and Support Coordinator E: michelle.rooney@sage.thirdageireland.ie T: 086 183 1428
COMPETITIONS
Six pairs of tickets to be won to the REVOLUTION 1916 Exhibition
Win a midweek break for two including a 2 course evening meal at The Millrace Hotel Leisure Club & Spa
Ambassador Theatre, O’Connell St, Dublin The organisers, in association with Senior Times, are offering six pairs of tickets to see REVOLUTION 1916 Exhibition in the Ambassador Theatre O’Connell St Dublin which recently opened and runs for the next few months. The exhibition will feature the largest private collection of 1916 artefacts, with over 500 items on display, on loan from the Irish Volunteers Commemorative Organisation (IVCO). Exhibits will include an original 1916 Proclamation, uniforms from the Irish Volunteers, Cumann na mBan and na Fianna, 1916 weapons including Howth Mausers, German Lugers, Peter the Painter C96 machine pistol as favoured by Pádraig Pearse, French Bayonets and even the actual door handle of the G.P.O. from 1916.
How to enter: To enter the competition, simply answer the following question: How many items will be on display in the exhibition? Send your entry to 1916 Competition, Senior Times, Unit 1, 15 Oxford Lane, Ranelagh, Dublin 6. Or email to john@slp.ie Deadline for receipt of entries is 20th April. The first six correct entries received are the winners.
VISITOR INFORMATION Dates and Times: Open daily from 10.00am to 6pm from 27 February 2016. Tickets: From €15 for adults / from €12 for children. Note ticket prices include booking fee Ticket Outlets: Available from Ticketmaster and venue box office Telephone bookings: Tel 24 hrs: 0818 719 300 (ROI) | Tel: 0844 277 4455 (N Ireland)
Tel:- 053 9375100 www.millracehotel.com The Millrace Hotel, Leisure Club & Spa is located in the picturesque town of Bunclody in Wexford on the edge of the beautiful Hall-Dare Estate, home to The Bunclody Golf & Fishing Club. The hotel has 60 Bedrooms which consists of 3 fabulous suites and the remaining are Standard, Family Interconnecting rooms & newly refurbished Deluxe rooms. Step into the peaceful cocoon of the newly refurbished Danu Spa and experience rituals that work in natural synergy with skin, body and mind. The Mill Bar & Bistro serves food from 12.30pm-9.00pm daily. There is live entertainment in the Mill bar every Friday and Saturday night from 10.00pm. The Mill Bar offers great value along with a friendly atmosphere. To win this break just answer the following question:-
How many bedrooms does the hotel have? Email answers to lgalvin@millracehotel.com Or by post to: Hotel Reviews Ireland Competition Lorraine Galvin, Millrace Hotel Leisure Club & Spa Carrigduff, Bunclody, Co. Wexford Deadline for receipt of entries is 20th April. First correct entry drawn is the winner
Fundraising Walking Challenge 2016 THE ISLANDS OF SARDINIA AND CORSICA - ITALY & FRANCE Sunday 09 - Sunday 16 October 2016
If you would like to take part in this very interesting challenge please contact Make-A-Wish Fundraising Officer Mary Quille Email: mary@makeawish.ie Phone: (01) 205 2012
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Open your Eyes to Elder Abuse The vast majority of older people live full and active lives, enjoying good health, happiness and independence. Most older people play a valuable role in their communities and in society generally. However, a small number of older people may experience mistreatment, abuse or neglect.
Any person or organisation may be guilty of abuse. Most often it is someone known to the older person, for example, a family member, relative, friend or carer. Advantage may also be taken of an older person by unscrupulous individuals, such as bogus traders and callers. Elder abuse can happen to anyone. If it happens to you, remember, you are not alone and you are NOT at fault. You do not need to continue suffering abuse. If you or someone you know is being abused, talk to someone you trust • a family member or close friend. • Your health professional - your family doctor, public health nurse or community health worker, Social Worker, HSE Safeguarding & Protection Team or anyone at your local health centre. • Your local Garda Station • Your bank or solicitor • Nursing home owner or the nurse in charge • The HSE Information Line (1850 24 1850) who can give you details of HSE staff in your local area who can help you. You could be in a position to help an older person who may be at risk of abuse. Be vigilant. Look out for signs of abuse. If you suspect abuse, seek advice. The earlier you express your concerns, the sooner help can be provided and relationships supported. HSE Information Line 1850 24 1850, Monday to Saturday 8am to 8pm or www.hse.ie/go/elderabuse/ 42 Senior Times l March - April 2016 l www.seniortimes.ie
There’s no excuse for elder abuse
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Book review
Suffer little children..
A nun distributing bread after the Rising
Children of the Rising, by Joe Duffy, Hachette Ireland, €19.99 This is a highly readable and well researched account of one aspect of the Rising which has been largely ignored up to now and Joe Duffy is to be congratulated for highlighting the suffering of not only those children who were killed or wounded but also those who lives were blighted by the tumultuous events of Easter week 1916. It is not a dry, scholarly work, and all
Luke Kelly was ten when he was shot cycling over O’Connell Bridge
the better for that, as it chronologically traces the conflict from the very beginning, noting that within 24 hours of the Rising starting 14 children were killed. The first child to die in the Rising, Sean (John) Frances Foster, was shot in his pram on Church Street on Easter Monday. He was one of forty children, aged sixteen and under, who died in the Easter Rising.
week of the 1916 Rising, and up to now almost never commemorated. Boys, girls, rich, poor, Catholic, Protestant – no child was guaranteed immunity from the bullet and bomb that week where teeming tenement life existed side by side with immense wealth.
Children of the Rising is the first ever account of the young lives violently lost during the
The first child to be killed in the Rising, Sean (John) Frances Foster
John Foster, father of the first casualty of the rising, with his brother Patrick
44 Senior Times l March - April 2016 l www.seniortimes.ie
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Health
Keep a check on your pulse Dr John Keaney & Dr Gábor Széplaki of the Mater Private Hospital, Dublin emphasise the importance of checking your pulse regularly which can even help prevent a stroke. Below they answer some common questions relating to your pulse. Is your pulse rate the same as your heart rate? In essence yes. The pulse rate is the measurement of the heart rate. The pulse rate is the number of times the heart beats. How is it measured? To measure your heart rate, simply check your pulse when you are ‘resting’; it only takes 30 seconds. Hold out your right hand, palm facing upwards. Place the index and middle finger of your left hand on your right wrist. Your fingers should be along the same side as your thumb. Press lightly until you can feel a pulse – if you can’t feel anything, you may need to press a little harder or move your fingers around. It might be easier with 3 fingers, when you first start. Once you have found the pulse count the beats for 30 seconds. Multiply the result by 2 and you have your pulse. What is a ‘normal’ pulse rate? A ‘normal’ pulse is made up of the pulse rate and rhythm. You should expect to count 60-90 beats per minute in a steady rhythm
Does your pulse rate change as you get older? Generally, no. If your pulse changes significantly with age, then get it checked by your GP as it could indicate a different health issue. Is there a particular method which ensures the most effective reading? A pulse check can be an effective reading of the heart rate, but may be difficult in some patients. Home blood pressure monitors may also measure heart rate, but are less accurate when the heart rhythm is irregular. Other generally reliable methods include smartphone apps but t he ‘gold standard’ for confirming heart rate and rhythm is with a heart tracing called an ECG. When is the best time to measure your pulse rate? When you are ‘resting’. This means not straight after exercise or drinking tea/coffee as opposed to being in the bed. Most people check it first thing in the morning. When should you be concerned about your pulse rate? The key is the combination of the rate and the rhythm of your pulse. If the rhythm is not steady or organised in a regular pattern, then we advise you contact your GP; also if your beats are consistently above 100 or below 40 beats in a minute. If you feel unwell and your pulse is generally slow, contact your GP.
What factors affect the pulse rate? Why should I be worried about my pulse? Stress, exercise and exertion can raise it; as would caffeine, alcohol and other such stimulants. Other conditions which may increase your heart rate include infection, anaemia (low blood count) and an overactive thyroid. Interestingly, the fitter you are, the lower your resting heart rate is likely to be. If you are taking medication, does this affect your pulse rate? Some medication for high blood pressure – for example beta blockers such as atenolol, or calcium antagonists such as diltiazem – can lower the heart rate and so you may have a low pulse.
Dr John Keany, Tel: 1800 200 550 Consultant Cardiologist with subspecialist expertise in Electrophysiology (heart rhythm problems)
An irregular pulse can indicate the presence of a heart rhythm problem such as Atrial Fibrillation (Afib). Patients with A fib have a 5 times higher risk of stroke and of a more severe stroke. Often there are no symptoms. An irregular pulse can be a sign but in most cases you can’t even feel it and won’t know it is irregular without checking it.
Dr Gábor Széplaki, Tel: 1800 200 550 Consultant Cardiologist with subspecialist expertise in Electrophysiology (heart rhythm problems)
If I have a problem how do you treat it?
blood and reduce this risk. In addition you may be started on medications to control your heart rate and rhythm. Often your GP will refer you to a Cardiologist with expertise in rhythm problems who may use more specialist cardiac medications or s procedures to help manage the problem
Your GP will initially assess and manage your symptoms and assess your risk of stroke. If you have other risk factors for stroke, you may be started on medications to help thin the
Afib is: a leading risk factor for stroke and more common in people over age 60; but it often has no obvious symptoms, making it difficult for people to know that they have it.
46 Senior Times l March - April 2016 l www.seniortimes.ie
PULSE CHECK 01
02
03
04
))
(( •
Face the palm of your hand upwards.
With the other hand, place your index and middle finger on your wrist.
Press and find the pulsation.
Using a clock or watch, count the beats for 30 seconds.
NORMAL PULSE 60-100 BEATS PER MINUTE IN A REGULAR RHYTHM If the beat is regular, multiply by 2 the number of beats counted in 30 seconds. This is your beats per minute. If the beat is irregular, repeat the steps above but count for a full 60 seconds. This is your beats per minute.
Contact your doctor if your pulse is: • fast & racing some or most of • consistently above 120 beats the time and you feel unwell • consistently below 40 beats • slow some or most of the • beating in an irregular rhythm time and you feel unwell
Mater Private Heart & Vascular Centre Expertise in cardiac rhythm disorders We are ready to care for you at our daily clinics Call the Arrhythmia Clinic on 1800 200 550
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Mens grooming
Smart moves Mairead Robinson looks at the growing market for men’s grooming products – and it’s not just for the young uns.
As 2016 dawned, a lot of interesting facts and figures began to emerge regarding men’s grooming habits and the so called ‘gender neutral bathroom cabinet’. Gone are the days when men would slap on some aftershave, sniff their armpits, and leave the house! Some key points from recent data include the fact that one third of men admit to borrowing their partner’s beauty products; 20% of women claim their partner takes longer to get ready than they do; 41% of men thoroughly enjoy shopping for grooming products and a staggering 70% of men cannot leave the house without checking their appearance in the mirror. In case you thought this only applies to younger ‘David Beckham’ type guys, the reality is that men have been historically concerned about their appearance and appeal – remember the over-powering smell of Old Spice on that first date years ago ladies? The slicked back Brylcream hair? And what about the famous
comb-over? The sale of hair-pieces, wigs and ‘crown-toppers’ for men has been flourishing for years. In recent years the industry has developed more effective and natural looking alternatives to the wig. The difference between now and in previous years of course is that these days it is quite acceptable for men to purchase and enjoy a huge range of grooming and pampering treatments and products, exactly as it is for women. That key area of appearance concerning men of all ages for many years is thinning and balding hair. And with famous actors and footballers among many high-profile alpha-males opting for hair transplants, this treatment is highly popular among those who can afford it. There are also other less-expensive options for men who are concerned about thinning hair and going bald. Statistics show that one in two men will experience thinning hair at some stage in their lives. There are a number of factors that can impact on the health of the hair and hair growth and these include hereditary, stress, medication and poor nutrition. As hair
48 Senior Times l March - April 2016 l www.seniortimes.ie
Viviscal Hair Growth Programme grows from the follicle, or root, underneath the skin, it is fed by blood vessels. So it is sensible to nourish the follicle on the scalp from within. Viviscal Man Hair Growth Programme is the number one male hair growth supplement in the US and contains key active hair growth ingredients including AminoMar C, Vitamin C, Zinc and Flaxseed. These nutrients infuse the follicles deep within the scalp. Two tablets a day work from within to slow down shedding and thinning and promote thicker, healthier hair growth. Another product from Viviscal is their Volumising Hair Fibres which contain microscopic, electrostatically charged fibres
Nuxe Node DS (€13.50) and Fluid (€10.50)
with Keratin that stick to the hair and create a ‘volumising’ appearance. You simply tap the fibres liberally onto your dry hair until your scalp is no longer visible and your hair looks thicker. It is available in six different shades which can be mixed to ensure your hair looks completely natural. It is not just women who suffer from sensitive scalp and dandruff can be a difficult condition to deal with if the most common products are too harsh on your skin. Bioderma have just introduced two products from its Node range to the Irish market. Node Fluide is a daily non-detergent shampoo that respects the physiological balance of even the most sensitive hair and scalp while Node DS+ is an intensive dermatological shampoo that prevents recurrence of persistent dandruff and soothes itching. Moisturising creams Moisturising creams, eye and skin care are becoming increasingly popular for men and
Nuxe recently launched their Nuxellence Men range which includes their new Youth and Energy Revealing Anti-Ageing Fluid, the first such men’s skincare product on the Irish market. In 2010 Nuxe launched their original Men range which was designed to make men’s lives easier byharnessing the strenfths of active tree extracts. Men have been quick to realise the benefits, elevating the MultiPurpose Eye Cream, the Moisturizing Multi-Purpose Gel and the Multi-Use Shower Gel to first place in their category. We have mentioned IDC recently with their patented Regen+16 technology which is very popular with women worldwide due to the success of their anti-ageing products. They also produce an integral after-shave and anti-ageing care for men formulated for the face, eyes and neck. It tones the skin after shaving, soothes and hydrates and targets the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It also has a matting effect which helps to control oily skin.
Nivea Men Crème (€5.99) Nivea has a moisturising cream for men, which is suitable for both hands, face and body and is very affordable and widely available. It comes in a “man size” tin and certainly deserves a place in every bathroom. Men should check out the great range of beauty products available specifically for them. And here is a tip for women who live with men who have not yet discovered the benefits of using products designed for them. It would be a good idea to purchase some of these products for them - at least start with a moisturiser such as this, and it might stop the man in your life using all your own products! As always, if you have any queries or comments regarding beauty and skin care you can contact me at mairead.seniorbeauty@gmail.com
Senior Times l March - April 2016 l www.seniortimes.ie 49
Lack of sunlight and its role in disease
Researchers are concerned over the widespread vitamin D deficiency that has been affecting even seemingly healthy individuals. Lack of sunlight is the main reason for this deficit which has been linked with a number of different illnesses. From seafood to sunscreen In 2010, a study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism showed that at least 59 per cent of the general population in the modern world is vitamin D deficient, with a large proportion having extremely low levels of this ‘sunshine vitamin’. One problem is that we are not consuming enough of the foods which are good sources of vitamin D, mainly oily fish and organ meats. To make matters worse, our extensive use of SPF blocks the natural synthesis of vitamin D that takes place in the skin in response to sun exposure. Deficiency and disease Vitamin D deficiency increases the risk of many different health problems, including auto-immune conditions, osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease and even cancer. The ‘D’ is for D-fense Vitamin D is vital for the production of anti-microbial proteins that help fight infection. Japanese scientists successfully demonstrated that school children who received a daily vitamin D supplement were nearly 60% less likely to catch the flu, compared with those who did not get the extra vitamin D. Down in the dumps? Research results reported in the by the Vitamin D Council, highlight a link between vitamin D deficiency and depression. Canadian
researchers reviewed 14 studies, consisting of 31,424 participants and found a strong correlation between depression and a lack of Vitamin D. The lower the Vitamin D level, the greater the chance of depression. However it seems to be a bit of a chicken and egg type situation. It’s yet to be confirmed if people get depressed because of a deficiency of Vitamin D, or if depression lowers the vitamin level. Researchers have also found that patients with schizophrenia and manic depression are often born during the time of year where a mother’s vitamin D levels are low, typically in the spring and winter. Heart health Using a meta-analysis study, British researchers from the University of Warwick found that middle-aged and elderly people with high levels of vitamin D were at least 33 per cent less likely of developing heart disease. In the heart, vitamin D binds to specific receptors and produces its “calming”, protective effects. Their research is based on nearly 100,000 men and women of different ethnic backgrounds. American scientists from the Washington University School of Medicine have discovered that it is particularly dangerous for diabetics to have too little vitamin D, as it impairs their ability to clear cholesterol from their blood vessels. Did you know? There are two types of vitamin D. D2 and D3. D3 is the active form (the same kind that is produced when our skin is exposed to sunlight). It is much more efficient at boosting body stores and should always be favoured when picking a supplement.
50 Senior Times l March - April 2016 l www.seniortimes.ie
Vitamin D production is inhibited by the use of SPF’s. A factor of 8 or higher will block production by 95%! It is almost impossible to obtain adequate vitamin D through diet alone. The best food sources are oily fish, egg yolks and organ meats. Our ability to absorb vitamin D decreases as we age. Overweight or obese individuals are less able to produce vitamin D from the sun. If you have dark skin, you’ll need about 25 times more sun exposure than a light skinned person. Dark pigmentation reduces the production of vitamin D. When we sun bathe, the darker the tan, the less vitamin D that is produced. This is the body’s way of maintaining balance. Your body cannot absorb calcium without adequate vitamin D. Vitamin D opens up channels in bones so that calcium can enter. What to look for in a supplement - Active vitamin D3 from organic lanolin (for optimal bio-availability) - Dissolved in cold pressed olive oil for antioxidant protection and superior absorption - Blister packed capsules to prevent contamination from bacteria. Also protects the chemical composition from oxygen, heat, air and moisture.
Get your “Sunshine vitamin” (even in Ireland!)
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Creative Writing Eileen Casey
Radio days Ageing Matters (Liffey Sound 96.4fm) and Circle & Square (The Literature of Shopping Centre) Looking back to the past can often affect the way we see the future. In this regard, I’d like to steer you towards community radio and its ability to effect change in many ways. At the end of 2015, I had the pleasure of being part of a ten week media expression course concerning advocacy. The course was facilitated by Una Ruddock and took place, under the auspices of Craol (representative, co-ordinating, lobbying body and support organisation for Irish Community Radio), at Liffey Sound FM Radio Station. Each Monday for ten weeks, we gathered at Ballyowen Road, Lucan, Co. Dublin, in order to put together an advocacy-based radio programme. Under an over-arching title Ageing Matters we would eventually become part of a nationwide initiative with regard to broadcast. ’Speaking up a Change’ was the title of the media course; it aimed to ‘empower and enthuse learners to express themselves through broadcast media, including a practical introduction to the use of radio as a medium
The media course was facilitated by Una Ruddock and took place, under the auspices of Craol (representative, co-ordinating, lobbying body and support organisation for Irish Community Radio), at Liffey Sound FM Radio Station.
for expression and the importance of active engagement with the media.’ Most of the group were already heavily involved with advocacy, belonging to organisations such as ‘Older Voices for Change’. These strong, articulate and intelligent women were active in their communities in many positive ways. It was awe inspiring to realise all the work that goes on behind the scenes by unsung heroes (and heroines). The one and only gentleman on the course was part of a music group called RAMS (Retired Active Men), set up for the purpose of encouraging men (retired, widowed or isolated in some way from the larger world) to come out of isolation and take a more active role in their communities. Aside from Una’s excellent guidance (she has been involved for over twenty years in the voluntary sector, developing and working with programmes from inception to sustainability), I really enjoyed being with the group. Among their many interests were yoga, dancing, opera, poetry and generally being clued into what’s going on in the world around them. I found such
52 Senior Times l March - April 2016 l www.seniortimes.ie
‘lively minds’ invigorating and proved the truism that advancing years is no barrier to a vibrant inner life. The course initially taught us that there are many ways to get our voices heard through the media: local, commercial radio, community radio, national TV, supermarket notice boards, facebook, twitter, a national newspaper, a parish newsletter, an advertising poster etc. The best element of all however was the hands on experience we gained from being in a community radio environment. Understanding how a mixing desk works, ACD player plus leads and microphones, proved a tremendous learning curve, definitely as far as I was concerned. At the end of the ten weeks we had put together a viable programme which included interviews, reflections and comedy from a blend of unique and informative voices. One of my highlights was a trip to Dáil Eireann with my colleague from the course Wendy, to interview the then Kathleen Lynch, Minister for State for Primary Care , Mental Health & Disability.
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Ferris Wheel from Circle & Square by Ronan Kennedy
During the interview, Minister Lynch spoke at length about The National Positive Ageing Strategy launched in 2011. One of her priorities was to change how we think and she believes that ‘language changes attitude and attitude changes everything.’ She reminded us that getting out of the bed each morning relied on the roll of the dice as regards getting back into it again in the evening. Life is very fragile and a positive approach to ageing means changing perception so that ‘burden’ is not the inevitable label attached to those who are lucky enough to reach the later stages of life. Thanks to TILDA (Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing, Trinity College), areas where additional money needs to be spent have been identified. Minister Lynch said that this additional money was obtained. I asked her about intergenerational projects and how important it is to call these gatherings ‘intergenerational exchanges’ thereby giving each generation the same weight in terms of integrity. She countered with the fact that these exchanges happen naturally (she herself is blessed with eight grandchildren) but that the most desirable gathering would ideally bring together four different generations. She stressed the difficulty of placing expectations where the gap between the ages is large so it does indeed make sense to try and close those gaps where possible. 2016 however, ‘will be a year for looking back and then those who live longer will truly come into their own.’ Wendy raised the very interesting point about overworked staff in care units, how there is a danger of empathy and compassion being sacrificed in favour of rote. In this regard the Minister agreed that these qualities are extremely important to hold onto and that it’s about ‘recognising a person as a person’. Taking five minutes to give time can prevent a situation from turning into an emergency. When an adverse event occurs (when something that’s avoidable happens), how relatives are dealt with often has the greater impact. Inevitably it’s how we age will determine our care. People can require limited assistance or more than this. Others require full time, hands on attention. 2016 will be a year when various approaches to positive ageing (including holistic) will be explored. I found Minister Lynch to be extremely gracious and positive as a person and she was very generous with her time for myself and Wendy on the day we interviewed her. ‘Ageing Matters’ can be heard on Liffey Sound 96.4FM info@liffeysoundfm.ie
The mall is the medium When is a shopping centre not like a shopping centre? Easy! When it’s the imaginative location for fiction, prose, poetry, drama and art photography. Not as frequently as you might think however. Ewan Morrison (writing in The Guardian on 25th April, 2012) makes the point that there are few works of fiction set in shopping malls. This state of affairs Morrison regards as ‘a disturbing omission in literary history, given we live in a world that is rapidly homogenised by these structures.’ Morrison was hard pressed to name ten titles themed around shopping centre, one of which Au Bonheur des Dames (The Ladies Delight) by Zola appeared in 1883. Zola’s novel charts the rise of the modern department store in the late 19th century when the emerging bourgeois women became the main spenders. Paradoxically, an underclass of women had to serve the desires of these upper class women and work like slaves to deliver ‘delight’. Circle & Square, a new publication hot off the press, can now be added to the canon of shopping centre literature. Brim filled with prose, fiction, drama, poetry and ‘art’ photography, it was easy enough for me to conceive of such an anthology in the first place. An escalator has the power to bring mythology into my consciousness (Orpheus descending into Hades in search of Eurydice), co-existing with the decision of whether to have steak or salad for dinner. Not to mention the car park where all sorts of dramatic events can occur. Louise Phillips, one of Circle & Square’s
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guest writers, uses flash fiction to bring her main character (‘Layla’) into the car park of a shopping centre, having fled from an abusive husband. It’s early morning and the vast space of an empty car park further heightens that sense of isolation. Phillips uses the setting eerily well, as one would expect from a best-selling crime novelist. Kevin Power (Bad Day in Blackrock) in a short story ‘A Mistake’ reveals a sharply observed psychological narrative, rooted in the darker layers of family history. Power is published with his mother Joan, ‘The Tulip Queue’, a story perfectly balanced between past and present. All of the stories and poems in Circle & Square highlight the fictional, biographical and historical riches a shopping centre possesses in terms of themes for writing. ‘Circle & Square is blessed to have guest writers with international reputations. Professor of Poetry, Paula Meehan shows why she is a master of her craft. The opening of from Geomantic (an extract from a larger work) brings two different kinds of shopping list to the reader, two different lists with two entirely different emotional outcomes. Ferdia McAnna’s poem ‘Punk Songs for Pagans’ demonstrates he is equally at home in the world of poetry as he is with the novel. The tradition of mentoring writers is very strong in South Dublin. The writers in Platform One show themselves to best advantage in this publication. All of the poets, fiction writers, dramatists acquit themselves with tremendous vitality and imaginative approach.
Kinsale’s Blue Haven Collection welcomes you with open arms!
One of the luxuriously appointed bedrooms
The Blue Haven Collection is set in the heart of stunning Kinsale and consists of two luxurious accommodation properties, the 4 star Blue Haven Hotel and the 5 star Old Bank Townhouse, as well as The Seafood Cafe, Blue Haven Bar & Bistro, Hamlets Bar and Aperitif Wine and Tapas Bar. From the moment you arrive, you’ll feel like you are home... with the restful bedrooms, amazing food and plenty of nooks and crannies to relax in, this mix of interesting properties is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle. Whether you’re planning a group trip, a short break or a shopping spree, then the good news is that you’ve just found an affordable yet luxurious base in Kinsale., 25 minutes from Cork City. You’ll love the seamless blend of boutique and contemporary luxury, whether you’re relaxing in the lounge with a coffee, enjoying tapas and fine wines, an Aperitif, or sampling the seafood
Our Bank House Gourmet Cafe in our Seafood Cafe. The Blue Haven Bistro offers a varied menu at excellent prices, and most of the world renowned restaurants, that are right on your doorstep, have amazing value early bird and lunch menus.
include exploring West Cork, or even into Kerry if you’re feeling adventurous!
The Blue Haven Collection will welcome you with open arms and is just a gentle stroll from dozens of great restaurants, cosy cafes and interesting craft shops. Cork is only two and half hours by train from Dublin, and Kinsale is just a hop, skip and a jump down the road... only 45 minutes by bus. Ask about our special over 50s packages and you will get amazing value and a few extras included.
www.bluehavenkinsale.com
Interesting walking trails and bike hire locally make Kinsale a great base to explore the coastal routes. While day trips from Kinsale
The Blue Haven Collection Kinsale... for the time of your life!
The Blue Haven Hotel 3-4 Pearse Street, Kinsale, Co Cork Tel: 021 4772209. Email: info@bluehavenkinsale.com Senior Times l March - April 2016 l www.seniortimes.ie 55
Bubbleator by Paddy Sayers from Circle & Square
As befits what can loosely be termed an ‘emporium’ where various elements of the human psyche are catered to, themes in ‘Circle & Square,’ inhabit mind, body and spirit. ‘Squaring the Circle,’ may well be a mathematical conundrum. However, in Buddhist beliefs, circles have no beginning or end, becoming the eternal whole. For every culture this form represents the sun, earth and moon while a square shape symbolises stability and the familiar; in short, a combination of the human and the divine. The world of creative energies, to some extent, inhabits both these realms, a theme lyrically conveyed by Tony Shields in his poem ‘Imagination.’ Shields envisages imagination as having the form of a swan, who ‘struggles to rise into the clear, blue sky.’ This evocative image captures the creative enterprise perfectly, the ‘blue sky,’ easily transforming to the white page. Such a rich abundance of poetry, fiction and prose renders it impossible to explore each work on an individual basis in this editorial. What can be said of all the writings is that each conveys the truth of real lives, lives that connect and intersect in various ways within the physical space that is ‘shopping centre.’ These paths also include the imaginative and the metaphorical (I’m thinking of Molly McCloskey writing in The Irish Times about ‘Shopping for Words’). The last words go to Dermot Bolger who says: “To open Circle & Square is like entering the sort of fascinating café which every shopping centre should ideally possess: a cornucopia of engaging voices and fascinating stories that any reader would happily eavesdrop on. This is an anthology where a shopping expedition or a Luas journey can also bring you on a succession of intriguing and inventive voyages into the past and future. Prepare to be entertained.”
Ritual By Aine Lyons Fridays are always the same. First the post office to collect our pensions, happy if the sun shines, moan with the others if it rains.
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Like well trained soldiers we queue in line for Lotto tickets. Surely this week we’ll be gifted with gold. I shop for shoes in Debenhams while you rest on a seat with the morning news. The smell of coffee draws us in despite good intentions, latte and cream cakes. Nearly forgot the chemist and our pills. Our journey through the shopping centre follows a pattern peopled by familiar faces. Young mums, babies in buggies, a smiling friend comes into view. We exchange news of neighbours happy or sad. Our trolley is always full. Lots of biscuits and fizzy drinks we love to see the grandchildren enjoya rose tree to plant in the garden. Old legs. Happy to go home.
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Ritual’ by Aine Lyons is included in ‘Circle & Square’. Ainé debut poetry collection will be published in April by Fiery Arrow Press to celebrate her 80th year. Circle & Square (Fiery Arrow Press) can be obtained directly from eileencasey@eircom.net (12euro to include post & packaging) or via Waterstones Bookshop. The publication received sponsorship from South Dublin County Council, Luas and The Square Shopping Centre, Tallaght.
Your legacy can make a lasting impact Most of us will be in a position to give more in our will than we could ever give while we are alive. Leaving a bequest won’t cost you anything in your lifetime but will impact well into the future and make a huge difference to people’s lives. When making or updating your will you should of course take care of your family and friends first. But then please consider leaving something, no matter how small, of whatever is left to The Irish Hospice Foundation.
To find out more about leaving a gift in your will to The Irish Hospice Foundation, please contact Anna Sadlier on 01 679 3188 anna.sadlier@hospicefoundation.ie
www.hospicefoundation.ie
Charity Number: CHY 6830
ESCAPE TO THE WEST Enjoy Active Retirement Breaks at Salthill Hotel
Join us for 3, 4 or 5 night breaks at Salthill Hotel and enjoy some local activities in the beautiful surroundings of the Wild Atlantic Way.
Your Breakaway Includes:
- Overnight accommodation in our classic double or twin rooms - 4 course evening meal daily - Full Irish breakfast daily February
March
April
May
September
October
November
5 nights
€259.00
€259.00
€279.00
€299.00
€299.00
€279.00
€259.00
4 nights
€219.00
€219.00
€239.00
€259.00
€259.00
€239.00
€219.00
3 nights
€179.00
€179.00
€199.00
€219.00
€219.00
€199.00
€179.00
Prices based on per person sharing. No Single Supplement November and February. Rates available midweek only (Sunday to Thursday). Group discounts available - Please contact the hotel direct.
Discover Galway’s Finest Four Star Hotel
Call: 091 522711 Email: reservations@salthillhotel.com Visit: www.salthillhotel.com Salthill Hotel, Promenade, Galway.
www.sportssurgeryclinic.com
Athletes aren’t just considered the people we watch at games or on television but an emerging generation of people who refuse to succumb to a sedentary lifestyle as they get older; the 80 year old gentleman who still cycles 10 miles a day; the 76 year old lady who likes to climb Croagh Patrick; the 69 year old who enjoys completing the Dublin marathon every year. With aging, various changes occur within the articular cartilage that lines the surfaces of joints. Arthritis produces quite different changes; water content increases and other collagens and proteins decrease. Rather than offering a histology lesson, this serves to show that arthritis is not the inevitable consequence of getting older. We should look at arthritis like any other disease that can be successfully addressed if and when it starts interfering with your normal activities or your quality of life. With regard to the knee, various options are potentially available depending on the problem.
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Health
Improved medical technology can keep you active longer A total knee replacement replaces the entire joint but sometimes it is possible to replace only a portion of the joint, a partial knee replacement. These are generally smaller operations with a quicker recovery time and usually a more normal feeling knee afterwards. Return to certain sporting activities is also more likely – swimming, cycling and even things like doubles tennis are fine but most surgeons recommend avoiding prolonged jogging. In general, surgery makes it more rather than less likely to return to activities. New and improving technology also allows us to insert a knee replacement more accurately so that not only is the leg straightened in a more natural way but it should also feel more stable. This is known as computer navigation and I now routinely use it for all my knee replacement surgeries.
Also we know that weight bearing exercise is actually good for joint surfaces. Think of the cartilage like a sponge that fills and empties its water content with each step and this allows nutrients to flow within it. It also has the advantages of increasing bone density and thus avoiding osteoporosis and also stronger leg muscles are strongly associated with maintaining independence as we get even older. So get out and about and enjoy your hobbies again and if your hip or knee is stopping you from doing that, maybe it’s time to get it seen and treated. Gavin McHugh is a Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon at the Sports Surgery Clinic, Northwood Avenue, Santry Demesne, Dublin 9, Tel: (01) 5262367. Email: gavinmchugh@sportssurgeryclinic.com
24/02/2015 12:11
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T: 066-7199100 E: reservations@felspointhotel.com www.felspointhotel.com
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Belvedere House from the terraces
Attractions
The bridge at Woodstock Gardens which have recently been restored
Castles, museums, gardens, industrial heritage, nature reserves..the choice is yours There’s never been a better choice available to you if you are planning a private or group visit to any of the many attractions around Ireland to suit all interests and tastes: heritage sites, abbeys, castles, museums, gardens, industrial sites, nature reserves, activity-based options.. the list is endless. We have selected a number here which you may wish to consider in the coming weeks and months. Huge choice from the OPW A huge range of heritage sites fall under the care of the Office of Public Works. This experience offers free admission to many fee paying sites on the first Wednesday of every month. The annual visitors pass at just €25 is great value or a family pass at €60 open the door to a vast
Not to be missed!
array of heritage experiences at a very low cost. Ireland presents the visitor with a unique heritage experience no matter what area you choose to visit. Dublin is home to some of the country’s finest architectural examples spanning two millennia, some of which are now used as museums, state apartments and state residences. Boasting the largest public city park in all of Europe, Dublin also has many fine examples of civic parks and gardens and it is home to the National Botanic Gardens Compare these elegant buildings with the more elaborate ecclesiastical setting of the Rock of Cashel in Co Tipperary. The grandeur of the parks and castles contrasts with the remains of a 5,000 years old civilisation found at the Céide Fields in Co Mayo or the spectacular prehistoric stone fort at Dún Aonghasa on Galway’s Aran Islands, both framed by the wild Atlantic Ocean. A diversity of landscapes can be enjoyed by nature lovers in the richness of our natural heritage. Off the southern coast is a world famous island garden of rare beauty – Ilnacullin or Garinish Island. On the south east coast the John F Kennedy Arboretum in Wexford has a plant collection of international standing containing 4,500 varieties of trees and shrubs from all temperate regions of the world, while Emo Court in Co Laois combines beautiful gardens and parkland with a Gandon designed neo-classical mansion. Towards the east, in December, the morning sun of the Winter Solstice awakens another unique World Heritage Site at Newgrange, Co Meath and lights thepath of history to the seat of the ancient High Kings of Ireland at Tara. Or visit the wooded glens and ancient monastery of Glendalough which hosted US first lady Michelle Obama and her daughters in June, 2013. Full details of the many heritage sites that can be visited on www.heritageireland.ie Fascinating insight into prison life at Cork Gaol Cork City Gaol is located 2km north west from Patrick’s Street and while the magnificent castle like building is now a major and unique visitor attraction, this Gaol once housed 19th / early 20th century prisoners. Visitors get a fascinating insight into day to day prison life at a time when the high walls ensured no escape and denied law abiding citizens the opportunity to see one of the finest examples of Ireland’s architectural heritage.
this exhibition WILL RUN UNTIL DEC 2016 WWW.DUNDALKMUSEUM.IE CONTACT: 042 9392999
60 Senior Times l March - April 2016 l www.seniortimes.ie
Stepping inside visitors are taken back in time to the 19th century. Wandering through the wings of the Gaol, the atmosphere suggests you are accompanied by the shuffling feet of inmates, each representing their particular period in Irish history from pre –famine times to the foundation of the state. The cells are furnished with amazingly life like wax figures; original graffiti on cell walls tell the innermost feelings
1916-2016
Walk through Ireland’s Story. Experience it. An Post’s GPO Witness History is a brand new visitor exhibition and experience in the historical and iconic GPO building on O’Connell Street, Dublin. This engaging, interactive visitor attraction brings history to life through technology, video and sound with authentic artefacts many previously unseen.
Brand New Immersive Exhibition & Visitor Attraction
Opening March 2016
To book or for further information call: +353 (0)1 816 9538 or e: info@gpowitnesshistory.ie
www.gpowitnesshistory.ie
Image courtesy of the National Library of Ireland
Senior Times l March - April 2016 l www.seniortimes.ie 61
The atmospheric inside of Cork Gaol
of some inmates while a very spectacular audio visual tells the social history and contrasting lifestyles of the 19th century Cork and why some people turned to crime, and some ended up in Australia. This exhibition fascinates visitors of all ages and nationalities and the tour is available in up to 12 languages.’ Choice of attractions at Belvedere House, Gardens and Park The magnificent 160 acre Lakeside Estate of Belvedere House, Gardens & Park boasts a fully restored Georgian Villa, built in 1740 by the famous Architect Richard Castles for Robert Rochfort, later Lord Belvedere (‘The Wicked Earl’). A day visitor to Belvedere gets to explore the restored Georgian Belvedere House, Victorian Walled Garden set in a naturalistic designed 18th century parkland, punctuated with Romantic Follies includes the largest in Ireland; “The Jealous Wall” along with Ice House, Gothic Arch & Gazebo. A place of quiet contemplation and also a bustling, vibrant, colourful place with the many events held there, it is a place resonant of the past but relevant to the future. The historic role of the Big House in Ireland was one of dominance and exclusion; hidden away behind high walls designed to keep people out and were surrounded by idyllic landscaped grounds for the enjoyment of the few. Nowadays a big house such as Belvedere (stature not size) in public ownership, the aim is for inclusion not exclusion. Within the welcoming Visitor Services Centre is a Licensed Restaurant and Gift Shop and there are also 4 outdoor children’s playgrounds & many picnic areas on the estate . Whether you are part of a gardening group, historical society, active retirement association, family gathering or group of friends, a visit to Belvedere is a superb day with a difference. Open daily year round. For more information, contact: Tel: 044-9349060 Fax 044-9349002 Email: info@belvedere-house.ie Web: www.belvedere-house.ie Facebook: www.facebook.com/Belvedere-House-Gardens-Park ‘Soft’ adventures sports with walkhikebike As the Sun starts to tease us with a glimpse now and then and the sodden turf begins to dry slowly those of us who are not hardened outdoor enthusiasts contemplate venturing out and exploring our local trails, parks or roads to stretch the legs after what has been a tough Winter. In recent years the Irish public have become more aware of the country we live in and its potential for adventure sports. This term can scare many away as it conjures up images of white water rafting, surfing giant waves or hurtling down steep hills on a mountain bike. These are 62 Senior Times l March - April 2016 l www.seniortimes.ie
When Arigna was a working mine..
all adventure sports there are also ‘Soft Adventures’ with comfortable activities such as walking and cycling. When you mix these with fantastic experiences such as foraging for seaweed in South Kerry and learning how to use this for cooking then this is an adventure too. ‘Our adventures are not just about physical exertion and raising your adrenalin levels. We want the adventure to include discovery, education, immersion and most of all fun’.
Come visit Woodstock Gardens this summer
• Beautiful, recently restored Victorian gardens • Located overlooking the River Nore in picturesque Inistioge, Co. Kilkenny • Walk through our arboretum which is home to a collection of rare and exotic trees • Visit the walled garden where fruits and vegetables are once again grown in abundance • Take time out for tea in a beautiful conservatory overlooking the flower gardens • Open all year round, daylight hours • Facilities:- Tea Rooms, Car Parking, Toilets, Children’s Playground, Mobility buggy available for less able bodied persons, please phone ahead if you wish to avail of this service (free of charge) • Guided tours available by appointment • Admission fee - €4 per car includes admission for all car occupants to the gardens • Buses and coaches strictly by prior booking. • Price available upon request.
Contact: John Delaney - Head gardener at Woodstock on 087 8549785 or Claire Goodwin in Kilkenny County Council Parks Department on 056 7794373 or email woodstock@kilkennycoco.ie Kilkenny County Council, Parks Section, John Street, Kilkenny. T + 353 56 7794373 F + 353 56 7794069
WALK HIKE BIKE
Belvedere
House Gardens & Park, Mullingar, Co. Westmeath
A fascinating Georgian Estate to visit 1hour from Dublin, M4/N4 Exit 15 Opening Times 7days a week all year round from 9.30am Seasonal closing times apply Admission Rates Adult €8. The magnificent 160 acre Lakeside Estate of Belvedere House, Gardens & Park, boasts a fully restored Georgian Villa, built in 1740 for Robert Rochfort, later Lord Belvedere.
We specialise in Active Holidays & Day Tours in Ireland for older Adults. Walking, Hiking or cycling on our world-class handpicked routes with options to suit all abilities. l Group Bookings - Single or Multi Day
l Guided Holidays
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l Club/Society Outings
l Team Building
Tel: 066-7186181 E: info@irelandwalkhikebike.com
www.irelandwalkhikebike.com
With Victorian Walled Garden, with one of Ireland's finest collections of rare and special plants. The naturalistic designed 18th century parkland, punctuated with Romantic Follies, includes the largest in Ireland “The Jealous Wall”.
Student/Senior €6. Child €4. Family Ticket (2 adults + 1 child) €20. Each additional child €3.
There is a licensed Restaurant and Gift Shop on site and there are also 4 outdoor children’s playgrounds, a magical fairy garden & many picnic areas.
Catoca Fine Food and Giftware
Whether you are part of a gardening group, historical society, school tour, active retirement association, family gathering or group of friends, a visit to Belvedere is a superb day out with a difference.
Tel: 044-9349060 info@belvedere-house.ie www.belvedere-house.ie
Belvedere House Gardens & Park 2 for 1 on Admission (not valid for groups or Special Events – Sen/Tim/Sp 2016)
Lisselin on the banks of the Argideen River is part of the West Cork Garden Trail. Details of the Trail are available at tourist offices in Skibbereen, Cork, Clonakilty and Bantry, or email westcorkgardentrail@gmail.com
Active holidays are growing in popularity every year with more and more International guests and locals getting out to explore the world class hiking and cycling destinations around Ireland. For Hiking we have the Kerry Way and Beara Way in the South, the Antrim Coast and Glens in the North and a whole host of other wonderful Multiday Hikes or Single day options dotted all around the country. Unless you have been living under a rock for the last 3 years you cannot help but notice the growing number of ‘ MAMIL’s’ (middle aged men in lycra) on our roads. This rise in the popularity of cycling in Ireland has led many to discover the plethora of hidden back roads and boreens which lead to some of Ireland’s hidden gems. Once Hidden Regions such as Loop Head www.loophead.ie and Sheep’s Head h livingthesheepsheadway.com in Cork have made huge strides in promoting themselves as tourist destinations with fantastic community initiatives and cooperation to ensure their home is someplace we all want to experience. These regions along with others along the Wild Atlantic way and beyond have many options for the hiker or cyclist and you will not be disappointed with the range of options available. Look closer to home when planning your next getaway as Ireland is a wonderland of experiences just waiting to be discovered. Our accommodation and services are as good if not better than you will find anywhere in the world and outside of the well-known tourist hotspots prices are very reasonable for the service you receive. Ireland Walk Hike Bike have spent over 20 years discovering every nook and cranny this Island has to offer and we never tire of sharing this with our guests. From Mountain tops, Woodland strolls, grassy boreens and coastal cycle routes we have hiking, walking and cycling options to suit all ability levels. Whether you want to try it for a day or join on a guided week long holiday we promise you will leave with an added appreciation for the Island you call home. Tel: 066 71 86 181. E-mail: info@irelandwalkhikebike.com www.irelandwalkhikebike.com Beauty surrounds the stunning Woodstock Gardens The beauty spots of Brandon Hill, Inistioge village and the wooded Nore valley enclose the Woodstock Estate, where the once celebrated gardens have recently been restored. Woodstock Gardens and Arboretum are located just outside the village of Inistioge on the banks of the River Nore in County Kilkenny. The gardens were once considered one of the great gardens of Ireland and attracted many important visitors in their Victorian heyday. The design and concept of the original gardens and parklands at Woodstock is attributed to Colonel William Tighe and his wife Lady Louisa Lennox with the main works carried out during the Victorian Period from 1840-1890. The gardens fell into decline in the 1900’s but have now been wonderfully 64 Senior Times l March - April 2016 l www.seniortimes.ie
The County Museum, Dundalk is located in a beautifully restored late 18th century warehouse in the Carroll Centre at Roden Place in Jocelyn Street. Funded by Dundalk Town Council the museum opened in 1994 and offers an extensive programme of permanent exhibitions, temporary displays, drama presentations, music recitals, lecture and film. Tel: 042 9327056. Email: info@dundalkmuseum.ie
restored by Kilkenny County Council in association with the Tighe Estate and the local community. Features include the Turner Conservatory overlooking the Terraced Flower garden, a Walled Garden planted with an abundance of fruits and veg, a Rose Gardens planted with old Victorian varieties of roses, a Monkey Puzzle Avenue boasted to be the longest in Europe and an Arboretum which is home to many wonderful and rare species of trees from around the world. Facilities at Woodstock include a cafe located in the stunning Turner Conservatory, a children’s playground, toilets and car parking. A mobility buggy is available to transport the less able bodied around the gardens. Approaching from Kilkenny, take the first right in Inistioge village and enter through main gateway at the top of the steep High street. From the M9 take Junction 10 and follow the signposts from Knocktopher, through Thomastown and on to Inistioge village.
Heritage ites Of Ireland S Heritage Sites Of Ireland
OPW Heritage Card — OPW €25 Heritage — €60 Child/Student: €10 Adult: Senior: Card €20 Family: OPW €25 Heritage Card — Adult: Senior: €20 Family: €60 €10for one year. Offers unlimited admission to over 40Child/Student: fee paying sites
Adult: €25 Senior: €20 Family: €60 €10for one year. Offers unlimited admission to over 40Child/Student: fee paying sites Email:heritagecard@opw.ie Tel: 00353 1 6476592 Offers unlimited admission Tel: to over 40 fee paying sites for one year. Email:heritagecard@opw.ie 00353 1 6476592 Email:heritagecard@opw.ie Tel: 00353 1 6476592
www.heritageireland.ie www.heritageireland.ie www.heritageireland.ie
General InformationGeneral InformationEmail: Generalinfo@heritageireland.ie InformationEmail: info@heritageireland.ie Tel: 00353 1 6476000 Email: info@heritageireland.ie Tel: 00353 1 6476000 Tel: 00353 1 6476000
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The Arigna Mining Experience: a day with a difference The Arigna Mining Experience will certainly appeal to those looking for a day out with a difference. Now a popular tourist spot, this visitor centre is located in a beautiful scenic location overlooking Lough Allen and was established to protect the mining heritage of this area. It provides visitors with an insight into coal mining life as it was in the Arigna Valley for centuries. With an ex-Miner as your tour-guide, the visit to the museum includes access to an exhibit area where there is a DVD presentation and a wonderful authentic photographic exhibition. The highlight of the visit is an underground tour to the mine’s coal face where lighting and sound effects add to the reality of the experience. The centre and mine is fully accessible for prams or mobility equipment as there is level entry in to the mine and there are no steps or lifts to gain access. The Arigna Mining Experience and its world class tour is close to the borders of Sligo and Leitrim and is located 12 miles from Carrick-on-Shannon. The centre is open 10-5pm daily, 7 days a week all during the year. (Apart from a short closure period around Christmas). Come visit ‘Santa’ in his underground Grotto with the grandkids in December each year; check our Website and Facebook for details. www.arignaminingexperience.ie Phone: 071-96-46466. Spiritual refreshment at Anam Cara Now could be the perfect time and place to follow your muse! High on a hillside between Coulagh Bay and Mishkish mountain on the Kealincha River - near the colourful village of Eyeries on the Beara peninsula in Co. Cork - awaits Anam Cara. If you find yourself wanting to explore your own creativity, here is a tranquil spot set apart to nurture and to provide sanctuary for novice as well as experienced people working in the creative arts. Whether you retreat to work on your own project or as part of a workshop group, you will find support, creature comforts, and peace – all you need to do your best work. A year-round, all-inclusive residential retreat, Anam Cara offers private and common working rooms and five acres of walking paths, 34 quiet nooks and crannies, gardens and meadows, a riverbank and island as well as a hot tub and sauna. If you are a writer, you can avail yourself of the editorial support provided by Anam Cara’s Director, Sue Booth-Forbes. If you are interested in one of the other arts, Beara is home to a number of creators who could provide support.
Tralee Bay Wetlands Centre where activity and nature combine
For more information and to book either your own retreat, a retreat for a group of your like-minded friends, or a week-long residential workshop retreat, contact Sue at anamcararetreat@gmail.com www.anamcararetreat.com Have you visited Tralee Bay Wetlands Centre yet? Visiting the Kingdom of Kerry this year? Then you absolutely must stop at the new Tralee Bay Wetlands Centre! Situated in the most beautiful natural setting, Tralee Bay Wetlands Centre offers a great place for a group visit offering gentle walks, an interesting guided tour, gift shop and a popular café/ bistro for lunch overlooking the main lake. A 20 metre viewing tower (has lift access) also offers stunning views of the surrounding area and overlooks the estuary of Tralee Bay and out onto the Slieve Mish Mountain ranges. An optional short boat trip meanders through the wetlands reeds and waterways offering close views of nature, especially wetland birds, and a wide variety of wetland habitat. This newly opened, unique visitor attraction with an eco – friendly visitor centre and interactive exhibition is the perfect destination for a variety of groups, from those simply seeking a relaxing day out with friends and lunch to keen birders and wildlife enthusiasts, photographers or conservation and environmental groups. Breakfast, lunch, brunch or delicious home-made scones can be enjoyed in the Lakeside Café. The centre is within a short walking distance of Tralee Town Centre and can also be accessed from the Train Station. www.traleebaywetlands.org 66 Senior Times l March - April 2016 l www.seniortimes.ie
Interactive Exhibition Guided Tours l 20metre Viewing Tower l Gentle Walks l Gift Shop l Wildlife l Lakeside Café l Access for Restricted Mobility
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Group Rates Available FREE customer car and coach parking
Tel: 066 7126700 Email: info@traleebaywetlands.org www.traleebaywetlands.org
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ACTIVE RETIREMENT GROUPS 50+ Group breaks at the Award Winning, 4 Star, Family Owned Villa Rose Hotel & Spa. Contact Leona today for fantastic Group rates from €159 for a 3 Night Break with Breakfast, Dinner and Entertainment!
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Wine World
Bubbly bonanza Mairead Robinson visited Vallformosa, the home of great Spanish cava. Last winter while staying in Barcelona I took a train up to Villafranca de Penedes to visit one of Spain’s top wine producing regions and one that everybody staying in Barcelona should visit. The train is fast, easy and cheap – and it is not difficult to organise winery visits with routes and tours arranged by most wineries and all information on wine tourism is available at the tourist office. While Catalan is the local language, Castilian Spanish is also spoken and most people have a good understanding of English, so you have no problem getting by. Certainly all the wine route information is available in English, and there is no reason why you shouldn’t pay a visit to this region. You can cover a lot in a day, returning to Barcelona in the evening. Alternatively of course, like me, you could choose to stay a couple of days in the area and soak up the laid-back traditional ambiance after the buzz of Barcelona. While a visit to the impressive Torres winery is a must for wine lovers if you have not been there before, checking out traditional sparkling wine was my mission this time and so I chose Vallformosa, who are celebrating one hundred and fifty years of great wine and cava making in Catalunya. During this time five generations of the same family have owned and been closely involved in all aspects of the business. They now export 85% of their production to over 50 countries worldwide. Here in Ireland we know them best for the popular Gran Baron cava brut (available in Dunnes Stores €17.00). But you should also check out 68 Senior Times l March - April 2016 l www.seniortimes.ie
An all time favourite is the Vallformosa pinot noir brut reserva – a stunning sparkler for any and occasion.
The Vallformosa vinyards and winery
restaurant wine lists and independent off-licences for Vallformosa brut reserva; brut nature; cava crut and cava cose. My all time favourite is the Vallformosa pinot noir brut reserva – a stunning sparkler for any and every occasion! At the heart of every wine is the variety of grape used in its production, and Vallformosa grow thirteen different varieties for their wines, including of course Xarel-lo (pronounced charello), an aromatic variety traditional to the Penedes region which gives body and structure and is used in the production of cava. The other two cava grapes are Macabeo and Parellada. Of all their current production at Vallformosa, cava makes up 90% while table wines make up the remaining 10%.
Vallformosa work closely with their local growers and more than 450 local families produce grapes for them in Penedes, and most growers have worked with them for over twenty years. Many of these vineyards are located more than 500 metres above sea level and the day-night temperature difference in the summer is such that the grapes can ripen slower giving the fruit more flavour, aroma and colour. The technical team meet the growers regularly and control the whole process from vineyard to end product. As well as their relationship with the growers, Vallformosa have a very keen environmental policy where sustainability is key and the land is cultivated to obtain high quality harvests using the latest systems to foster sustainable agriculture. I was
Senior Times l March/April 2016 l www.seniortimes.ie 69
The stunning cellar of the winery which is very popular for wedding receptions
particularly impressed with the use of an organic hormone contained in small plastic capsules that are attached to the wires on the vines which attracts the male insects who discover on arrival that there are actually no female insects there! Meanwhile, when the females arrive, they detect the scent which leads them to believe that other females are already there, so off they go! It is simply called ‘The Sexual Confusion Technique’ – and guarantees chemical and insect free vines. Good news for the vines, bad new for bugs. A new initiative from Vallformosa to celebrate their 150th anniversary is the development of The Vallformosa Foundation which is being set up to promote global initiatives to combat cancer. The foundation is involved in various social projects and also takes part in other programmes and partners with local organizations. To reflect the charity nature of this new initiative the labels on the Cava bottles contain the slogan ‘Drink Elegantly, Act Responsibly, Vallformosa Against Cancer’. Along with all the positive and ‘feel good’ aspects of this company’s strategy, something else I loved was the historic building which is set in a stunning location lending itself as a really romantic wedding venue. Weddings can take place among the vineyards and the winery itself has a beautiful event room with a church-like design – just perfect for your guests to enjoy sipping great bubbles while celebrating a wedding in style.
that Gaudi has to offer, take a train up to Villafranca from Barcelona and discover Vallformosa.
And finally, along with the style, friendliness, stunning ambiance and easy accessibility of Vallformosa, the wine itself is simply the best Cava you will find.
If you would like the opportunity to win a bottle of Vallformosa Cava Brut for yourself, check out www.hotelreviewsireland.com where four lucky people can claim this prize. There is a wine competition every month which is free to enter.
You can check out their full range on a visit and tasting the next time you make a trip to one of our favourite cities. After you have experienced all
Enjoy your sparkling wine and welcome in the spring after our wild winter – another reason to celebrate!
70 Senior Times l March - April 2015 l www.seniortimes.ie
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Culture Maretta Dillon reports on happenings around the country over the next few months
War, words and music Ashley Chen in Whack!
Decadent Theatre Company hit the road in February with Patrick McCabe’s, The Dead School, billed as a titanic clash between the forces of modernism and tradition in 1970s Ireland and one of the break out hits of last year’s Galway International Arts Festival. More details from decadenttheatrecompany.ie Not for the faint hearted is Whack!! : a new
dance work that is both physically and technically demanding and which shifts between comedy and tragedy, violence and tenderness. Philip Connaughton from Dublin and Ashley Chen from Paris are the two incredible performers who dreamed up this challenging collaborative piece. The tour begins on February 20 – more details from culturefox.ie
72 Senior Times l March - April 2016 l www.seniortimes.ie
Given this year of commemoration, Drums and Guns, devised by renowned pianist Ian Burnside focuses on World War I and the Easter Rising; war and its impact in times past and present. This is a powerful combination of music and poetry and the collective talents of three international musical institutions: The Royal Irish Academy of Music, The Guildhall School of Music and Drama and The Juilliard
Health
You’re invited to a St Patrick’s Day parade in Poland! Irish medical students who study in Poland and Irish residents of Bydgoszcz ( city size of Cork ) are promoting Ireland during St. Patrick’s weekend. They are organising St. Patrick’s Day celebrations and a parade working arm in arm with the Polish local authorities and with the support of Irish Embassy in Poland. Green fever will start in 17th of March in Poland, with Irish dancing schools, Irish pubs and Irish music sessions in all the big cities. With an increasing number of Irish students choosing to study in these cities, a day to showcase their history and heritage is welcomed.
Attractive Bydgoszcz, a city the size of Cork Please book your stay by email to Hotel Mercure Sepia email: H9441@accor.com and mention ‘’Medical Poland’s Guest’’ to claim discount when booking. 3 day stay in Mercure Sepia Bydgoszcz Single room for 3 nights 148 Euro without breakfast Double room for 2 guests for 3 nights 148 Euro without breakfast
‘During Euro2012 Bydgoszcz developed special ties with Ireland and now it is time to celebrate it. - says Adam Krawczyk, founder of Medical Poland that represents Polish medical universities in Ireland and helps Irish students in Poland. Last year a number of famous Polish buildings went green for a day, including Poznan’s city hall. This year Bydgoszcz is planning to join the celebrations with green city hall, bridge and other buildings.
3 day stay B&B in Mercure Sepia Bydgoszcz Single room for 3 nights 172 Euro Double room for 2 guests for 3 nights 207 Euro Additionally 3-course meal in Mercure Sepia Hotel - 16 Euro
St. Patrick’s weekend in Bydgoszcz includes parade taking place on Saturday 19th March which starts at 12:00, as well as a mass in English taking place at 10:45am. If you would like to join the celebrations in Bydgoszcz and visit the beautiful city, you still can book your flight with Ryanair on 17th March at 5pm from Dublin (after the Dublin parade) directly to Bydgoszcz (approx. 2-hour flight to the airport situated only 15 minutes from the city centre) and stay at the ****Mercure Sepia Hotel, where additional celebrations will take place: http://www.accorhotels.com/gb/hotel-9441-mercure-bydgoszcz-sepia/index.shtml
Dates / Flights (Ryanair) - 2h flight 17 - 20.03.2016 Thursday: Dublin -> Bydgoszcz (departure from Dublin 5:05pm) Sunday: Bydgoszcz -> Dublin (Departure from Bydgoszcz 1:40pm) Cost of return tickets: approx. 96 Euro as of 04.02.2016 – book your flight as soon as possible to avoid increase.
Airport transfers to Hotel Mercure Sepia one way – with dedicated taxi company – 6.20 Euro
Exchange rate 1 Euro is approx. 4.50 Polish Zloty – please check with your bank. A pint in Bydgoszcz is ( 7 Zloty) (approx. 1.50 Euro) and glass of very good wine 9 Zloty (Approx 2 euro only).
Events around the Country March 2016
Joseph Fiennes as Clavius in Risen
School. The poetry of Seamus Heaney, A.E. Houseman, Paula Cunningham, John Clare and Carol Ann Duffy amongst others are featured; with accounts of life during wartime ranging from the heartbroken and the poignant to the humorous and downright saucy. The work premieres in Dublin at the Lir Academy of Dramatic Art on March 9 and 10 before travelling to the UK and the US. More details from riam.ie The Irish premiere of Patrick Marber’s, After Miss Julie, transposes the tragic, erotic classic to an Irish setting. This new version from Marber of Strindberg’s original Miss Julie, sees the action move to Co. Fermanagh. Ciaran McMenamin is the chauffeur with Lisa Dwyer Hogg as the lady of the manor in this powerful drama of gender and class which continues to resonate with audiences. Check out primecutproductions.co.uk for island wide tour dates and venues.
Drums and Guns, devised by renowned pianist Ian Burnside focuses on World War I and the Easter Rising 74 Senior Times l March - April 2016 l www.seniortimes.ie
Risen, an unofficial sequel to The Passion of the Christ, is an unusual twist on the story by imagining what it might have been like for Roman officialdom to find Jesus’ tomb empty and the sort of political headaches that ensued. Joseph Fiennes plays Clavius, a sceptical Roman commander serving under the
“I’m Calling You about a Virus on Your Computer” Have you received a call out of the blue from a person warning you about an issue with your computer that you were unaware existed until you received the call? The caller then urges you to act now to fix the issue; otherwise you’re at major risk. This is a scam, don’t be deceived!
How does the computer virus scam typically work? •
You receive an unexpected call from an unknown person. The caller warns you that your computer has a virus.
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The caller then claims that they are from a technical support area that identified the issue with your computer.
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The caller then offers to fix the problem now for you.
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The caller gives you directions on where to look on your computer, and in some instances asks you to download a piece of software.
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The software downloaded could be a spyware that gives the caller remote access to your computer, including records and passwords.
Never act on an unexpected call from an unknown person who claims you have computer virus issues.
•
•
The caller helpfully shows you where the alleged virus is on your computer.
Never give your banking or credit card information to unknown individuals or businesses.
•
•
The caller then offers to sell you a six or twelve month computer service contract that he claims is meant to help protect you and your computer.
Never download software suggested by unknown callers.
•
•
If you agree, the caller requests your credit card details or asks you to pay by electronic money transfer.
Do your research. Check out the company that contacted you with trusted Government sources, such as Law Enforcement or Consumer Affairs – visit http://www.consumerhelp.ie/
•
Never send money to someone you have never met in person.
•
What you don’t realise is that there was no virus in the first place. However, the scammers may have uploaded spyware onto your computer and may now be processing transactions on your credit card. You work hard for your money; never let a few minutes with a scammer take from you what has taken years or a lifetime to earn. Learn more on how to help protect yourself from fraud by visiting: https://www.westernunion.com/ie/en/fraudawareness.html
Tips to avoid falling victim to the computer virus scam:
Gavin Peniston-Bird, Regional Fraud Risk Manager at Western Union advises: “Awareness is the best defence against scams. These scams can be convincing, but it’s important to check with your local law enforcement or government department like the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission in Ireland”. To learn more about common scams, watch our helpful videos and gain some useful tips, visit our website at: https://www.westernunion.com/ie/en/fraudawareness.html.
© 2016 Western Union Holdings, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Rev. 02/10/2016
Ciaran McMenamin and Lisa Dwyer Hogg in After Miss Julie
Chloë Hanslip
rule of Pontius Pilate, who begrudgingly investigates the disappearance of Jesus’ corpse, hoping to root out answers, only to uncover more questions. He finds himself increasingly intrigued by this man and his followers. Risen opens nationwide on March 18.
WHACK!! Dance A physical and brave tour de force from dancers Connaughton and Chen. From Feb 20 – various venues Information: culturefox.ie
Two of Britain’s leading instrumentalists, violinist Chloë Hanslip and pianist Danny Driver, begin a nationwide tour on March 30 with a programme including Beethoven and Strauss. Hanslip who was something of a child prodigy having made her first album at the age of 13 is joined by Driver who is noted as a master recitalist. Sounds very tempting with further tour details are available from musicnetwork.ie
TIME OUT OF MIND Film Richard Gere plays the newly homeless George looking to repair his relationship with his estranged daughter. March 4 nationwide
Events around the Country March 2016 JUNO AND THE PAYCOCK Gate Theatre Sean O’Casey’s classic play set during the Irish Civil War of the early 1920s and directed by Mark O’Rowe. From Feb 11 Booking: (01) 874 4045 / 874 6042/ boxoffice@gate-theatre.ie CYPRUS AVENUE The Abbey Theatre A co-production with London’s Royal Court Theatre, this is a black comedy about modern day Ulster loyalism. From Feb 16 Information: theabbeytheatre.ie / 353 1 8787222 THE DEAD SCHOOL Theatre Decadent Theatre Company’s acclaimed new version of Pat McCabe’s take on the clash between old and new. Feb 18 - Mar 19 / various venues nationwide Information: decadenttheatrecompany.ie
MARTIN HEALY Visual Arts Artist Martin Healy who works predominantly through the medium of photography and video has a new show. Mar 5 – May 4 / Crawford Art Gallery, Cork Information: crawfordartgallery.ie
Danny Driver
RISEN Film Explores the aftermath of Christ’s disappearance from the tomb from the point of view of a Roman investigator. March 18 nationwide
DRUMS AND GUNS Music + Poetry Three music entities come together to explore the legacy of World War 1 and the Easter Rising. March 9 and 10 Information: riam.ie
SWING Theatre Another chance to catch this engaging comedy about dancing, music, love, friendship and thinking outside the box. Mar 22 – Apr 2 / various venues nationwide Information: fishamble.com
MOUNTAINS TO SEA DLR BOOK FESTIVAL Literature Already confirmed are: Sir Michael Parkinson, Paul Muldoon, Donal Ryan and Pauline Bewick. Mar 9 – 13/ Dun Laoghaire, Co. Dublin Information: mountainstosea.ie
EASTER RISING CENTENARY History 2016 brings about a massive commemoration centred in the city where it all took place, Dublin. Mar 26 - 29 / various Dublin locations Information: ireland.ie
AFTER MISS JULIE Theatre Strindberg’s iconic play is reimagined in Co. Fermanagh in this new adaptation by Patrick Marber. Mar 9 – Apr 9 / various venues nationwide Information: primecutproductions.co.uk
CHLOË HANSLIP AND DANNY DRIVER Music UK violinist Hanslip and pianist Driver join together in a programme of Beethoven and Strauss. Mar 30 – Apr 8 / various venues nationwide Information: musicnetwork.ie
ARAN CELTIC MUSIC FESTIVAL Traditional Arts A celebration of Celtic music, song, dance and heritage on the Aran Islands. March 11 - 13 Information: ceilteach.ie
76 Senior Times l March - April 2016 l www.seniortimes.ie
Finally, if you’d like your event to feature in our list of What’s On please email: events.country@gmail.com
Burglary
Burglary has been getting a lot of attention lately. It seems like every day we hear there are more stories in the news about people whose homes or cars have been broken into and valuable or sentimental items stolen. A very normal response to these stories is fear and concern for one’s self and loved ones. The good news is that there are steps that you can take to help make you and your home safer. While it is not possible to completely prevent burglary and theft, the following steps can make you and your home an unappealing target for would-be burglars.. • Always keep your doors and windows locked. • Keep lights on in the evening. Use timers when you are away from home. Timers can be purchased at hardware stores. • Store keys and other valuables out of sight and away from windows and your letterbox. • Equip your home and car with an alarm system. Set your home alarm even when you are in the house. • Keep hedges and shrubs trimmed to prevent them from providing a hiding place for someone who is trying to break in through a window or door. • Consider lights for the outside of your home so that anyone prowling around can be seen from the street or by a neighbour. If you have continued concerns about the safety and security of your home, you can contact the local Garda Crime Prevention Officer for advice on additional precautions you can take. Making your home more secure will hopefully give you more peace of mind. If you have been a victim of burglary or any other crime, I encourage you to ring the Crime Victims Helpline on Freephone 116006. The Crime Victims Helpline provides information and support to victims of crime and anyone who is impacted by crime. We will provide time and space for you to talk. We listen with empathy and without judgement. You are not alone. The Crime Victims Helpline, Freephone 116006, is open Monday 10.00am to 19.30 , Tuesday through Friday 10.00 to 17.00, and Saturday 14.00 to 16.00. Further information can also be found on our website at www.crimevictimshelpline.ie Michele Puckhaber Coordinator, Crime Victims Helpline
Senior Times l March - April 2016 l www.seniortimes.ie 77
Health
Free dementia training resources for communities, carers and health services
Staff from Aboreteum Garden and Lifestyle Centre, Co Carlow who participated in the Dementia Awareness training for retailers, with Dementia Elevator’s Practice Development Officer, Ann-Marie Coen
Did you know that two thirds of people with dementia are living in their homes, in our communities? Most will continue to carry out everyday activities such as shopping, going to the bank, post office, using public transport and going out for dinner. But many will face additional challenges in carrying out these everyday pursuits. For example, imagine what it might feel like to forget your PIN number at the bank or shop and a long queue is forming behind you, or if you can’t find your train ticket while the ticket inspector is standing over you and other passengers are staring? Nearly all of us are familiar with these types of experiences, yet many people with dementia will face such challenges more frequently due to the progressive changes taking place in the brain. There are many ways we can help people with dementia to remain included in our communities - and it’s worth remembering that small acts of support can go a long way. The Dementia Elevator project based in Dublin City University aims to address this issue. Elevator is a national dementia education and empowerment programme led by Dr Kate Irving, Senior lecturer in Mental Health Nursing in the School of Nursing and Human Sciences. The project is funded by the HSE and The Atlantic Philanthropies. The Elevator team are developing a range of free, online dementia training programmes for public facing services such as retail, financial,
Customer care staff from Blanchardstown Centre who participated in the Dementia Elevator: Dementia Awareness training for retailers, with Practice Development Officer, Ann-Marie Coen
transport and emergency services staff, health and social care staff and dementia family carers. The main motivation behind Dementia Elevator is to ensure that there are people in the community with the right skills at the right time to make staying at home a more obvious choice than is currently the case. Elevator focuses on the person with dementia’s ability rather than their disability.
• Use open body language and a warm, friendly facial expression.
Free training programmes currently available from the Elevator website www.dementiaelevator.ie include a dementia awareness programme for retail staff, an e-learning programme for GPs and a comprehensive skills based resource for families and carers of a person with dementia.
• It is widely reported that people with dementia experience feelings of isolation. If someone you know has been affected by dementia, show your support by keeping in touch with a visit or a phone call.
Upcoming free, online programmes include training for financial, transport and emergency service staff and everyday ethical decisions training for carers. Some ways you can support to people with dementia in your community. • Give the person time, ensuring they don’t feel rushed or under pressure.
78 Senior Times l March - April 2016 l www.seniortimes.ie
• Speak slowly, calmly and clearly using plain language. Maintain eye contact. • If someone is distressed or confused it can help to offer to take them to a quieter place where they can sit down.
Find out more about how to support people with dementia by visiting www.dementiaelevator.ie or for more information please contact Ann-Marie Coen, Practice Development Officer on Email: ann-marie.coen@dcu.ie or call 01 700 6190
Golf Christy O’Connor Junior was disconsolate when he lost a ring which once belonged to Sam Snead..
Lost and found: Sam Snead’s famous ring As a Texan who could claim a town called Dublin as his birthplace, Ben Hogan made surprisingly little contact with this country through a distinguished career. One notable exception in this regard, had to do with a rather special ring which became the property of Christy O’Connor Jnr, who passed from us on January 6th of this year. Another involved correspondence initiated by Killarney golf enthusiast, Finbarr Slattery, almost 30 years ago. The closest Hogan ever came to playing in this country was when the Canada Cup was staged at Portmarnock in 1960. As part of the contract for that event, it was to be organised by the Golfing Union of Ireland, who were also empowered to select the two-man American team. Not surprisingly, they named Hogan and Sam Snead, who had captured the title so
impressively at Wentworth four years previously. As things happened, however, Hogan declined and was replaced by the newly crowned US Open champion, Arnold Palmer, who came to Dublin and partnered Snead to victory. For me, that was the only indication of a Hogan connection with this country until 1996, when I met Finbarr Slattery during the Curtis Cup matches at Killarney. In his possession were copies of two replies he had received to letters written to Hogan, which he showed me. The first was dated June 6th, 1989 on the headed notepaper ‘Ben Hogan, Chairman of the Board.’ It read: ‘Dear Finbarr. Thank you for your very nice letter and for thinking of Valerie [Hogan’s wife] and me. We are well and hope that you are too. I received a copy of the Senior Times l March - April l www.seniortimes.ie 79
Christy O’Connor celebrates his famous two iron shot to the 18th in the 1989 Ryder cup Tournament at The Belfry
Ben Hogan and Sam Snead The Sam Snead backswing in all its glory
Golf Monthly Supplement and when I read it, it brought back a lot of pleasant memories for me also. I doubt Valerie and I will ever make a trip to ‘the old country’ as we just don’t travel anymore, but thanks again for writing. With all good wishes, I am, Sincerely, (signed) Ben Hogan.’ During the days surrounding the funeral of Christy O’Connor Jnr, following his death while on holiday in Tenerife, a prized possession was mislaid, much to the concern of his family. It was a rather special ring which came into the golfer’s possession in 2001 and when we talked about it at the time, all he would disclose was that it hadn’t come cheaply.
And Shake had a photograph to prove it. He explained: ‘A ring was given to the management group, to each salesman and to each regional manager,’ said Shake, who went on to work for the Spalding company. ‘For the salesman of the year, the ring had a ruby, along with a diamond for each year he had reached his quota. I have no doubt that the ring they gave Mr Hogan is the same one that Christy O’Connor has acquired.’
My information was that it was then valued at $2,000 and would now be worth 10 times that amount, largely through the diligence of an American golfing scribe. During his activities on the US Champions Tour, O’Connor acquired the ring from an American collector named Byron Eder of Spring Hill, Florida. The connection came about through the Galwayman’s contract with Orlimar clubs, which Eder happened to represent.
Coleman said: ‘I was national sales manager of the Ben Hogan company at the time and I designed the ring myself. It had 10 diamonds in it but I don’t think he [Hogan] ever wore it except on that night.’ Given how precise he was about the game and the fact that he didn’t wear a glove, Hogan may have felt that the ring would affect his grip. In the event, Coleman claimed that a planned tradition for the Hogan company, launched on that occasion, had disappeared within 10 years. ‘At one stage, I remember seeing the 10-diamond ring in a display case at the company’s headquarters in Fort Worth,”’he said. Its later whereabouts became something of a mystery until O’Connor entered the picture.
Being a long-time admirer of Ben Hogan’s, O’Connor was fascinated to hear that the ring was once the property of the great man, though contemporary figures had no knowledge of it. In the event, there was no way of proving the ring’s authenticity until a golf-writing friend of mine, Dick Mudry, got hooked on the story.
Believed to be one of only 12 in existence, the 10-carat gold ring contains the words ‘Pursuit of Excellence’ around the stones. On the other side is the famous image of Hogan at impact. ‘Judging from what I was able to find out, there were probably less than a dozen of them made,’ said Eder. So, the Irish golfer landed something very special.
Through painstaking research and with the help of Bill Shake and Ray Coleman, former salesman in the Ben Hogan company, Mudry made a stunning discovery. Both claimed to have been witnesses when Hogan was presented with the ring at a special function in 1983, to mark the 30th anniversary of his three Major wins of 1953 – the US Masters, US Open and the Open Championship at Carnoustie.
‘I have always had a great admiration for Ben Hogan,’ said O’Connor, who proudly presented the ring for my inspection when we met during the Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby at The Curragh last June. He also talked of getting a personal note from Hogan, through the influence of golfer Sam Torrance’s father, Bob, who was quite close to the great man. O’Connor went on: ‘I acquired the ring in the belief that he had worn
80 Senior Times l March - April 2016 l www.seniortimes.ie
it and naturally, I was delighted to have that confirmed. It’s something I will always treasure.’ Worn proudly on the little finger of his left hand, the ring was removed while the golfer’s remains were being transferred from Tenerife back to Ireland. It then went missing during the funeral mass at Galway Cathedral on Tuesday, January 12th and when word circulated among family and friends, a thorough search was undertaken of the Cathedral and its grounds, but to no avail. When Wednesday passed with no news, the only hope seemed to rest in the honesty of whoever might chance upon it. Then, while Mary O’Connor, Christy Senior’s wife, was talking on the phone on the Thursday morning to the golfer’s widow, Ann, she was suddenly told the good news. ‘Ann was absolutely delighted, and greatly relieved,”’said Mary. Apparently the ring had dropped inadvertently into the open bag of a family friend. As a charming footnote, Christy Senior, who is now 91, recalled seeing Hogan for the first time during The Open of that historic season of 1953. ‘His ball-striking was fantastic,’ said Himself. ‘Everything was hit on the stick. I remember thinking that he had the look of a man who has mastered the art of hitting a golf ball.’ As an aspiring champion at the time, eager to learn his craft, O’Connor decided to take advantage of an early finish after an early round at Carnoustie. So, he and his good friend Johnny McGonigal – later the professional at Co Sligo GC - went out on the course and watched Hogan for six or seven holes. It proved to be a chastening experience. While watching the way the American icon could pitch the ball onto rock-hard greens and impart backspin, Himself felt utterly deflated. Turning to McGonigal he said disconsolately: ‘We know nothing about this game. Let’s go back to the practice ground.’
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market, Lyric’s™ sound quality is clean and undistorted. It is placed in the ear canal by a specially trained hearing aid audiologist, currently only 7 in the country, in a procedure that takes a few minutes, with no surgery or anaesthesia. Leona Kane from Audi-Lab Hearing Practice says, “The Lyric™ is a major advancement in hearing aid technology and ensures people who were once conscious about wearing a hearing device now have the freedom to go about their daily lives without thinking about their hearing loss. Combining its tiny size with the latest micro-technology, Lyric™ provides users with the opportunity to get the very best from their hearing.”
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Northern
By Debbie Orme
Notes Rock of ages – Bill Morrison recalls his days on the road
Bill Morrison remembering the sixties when Rory Gallagher played the blues in Belfast
Those who remember the 1960s will know that they were an era when music and fashion lifted Belfast onto the world stage. This was a time when Rory Gallagher played the blues and Sam Mahood was the king of soul. When George Best was the world’s greatest footballer and a fashion icon, and when Belfast’s youth danced at clubs like The Pound and the Marquee. In the midst of the musical scene was one Belfast man, who managed to combine his career as a city planner with that as a part-time musician with The Dominoes. Now, 73-yearold Bill Morrison has woven his story into an encyclopaedic musical journey through the Sixties and Seventies in his best-selling tome Big Hand for the Band. ‘One of my main motivations for writing the book,’ Bill tells me, ‘was the unearthing of a box of tapes of my old music, which was recorded live in the Sixties, mainly in the legendary Pound club in Oxford Street and in another called the Marquee in the old Astor Ballroom in Castle Street. I have to say that I was pleasantly surprised at how good it sounded and it made me think that the story of the music scene in the Sixties was worth telling.’ In Big Hand for the Band Bill has captured the atmosphere of Belfast’s golden years with wonderful memories interwoven with hilarious events as he moves through past and present times.
Bill also decided to write the book after he discovered that a number of his former colleagues on the music scene had serious illnesses: something with which Bill could easily identify, having been diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease in 2011. ‘I had known for some time that there was something wrong,’ Bill tells me. ‘The medics thought I may have had a slight stroke or a heart attack, and so they put me through a series of tests. It was following these tests that I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s. It’s obviously not the news that anyone wants to hear but this illness, combined with those of my former colleagues, made me realise that life was short
82 Senior Times l March - April 2016 l www.seniortimes.ie
and that it’s vitally important to do something with your life. Following my diagnosis, I had been inspired by the stories of what fellow sufferers had achieved and I wanted to do something inspirational as well! While the Parkinson’s has certainly slowed me down somewhat, on the positive side, the fact that I waken early in the morning gave me time to write undisturbed.’ There’s no doubt that, throughout the book, Bill doesn’t shy away from giving a moving account of struggling with Parkinson’s and dealing with his diagnosis, and he hopes that, in addition to reminiscing about the bands, his
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‘There is no denying that Parkinson’s triggers bleak reflections,’ he says. ‘Apart from the shake most people associate with the disease, there is an inclination to stoop and walk about with your mouth open; your face becomes expressionless; sleep patterns disturbed. I fumble with loose change, and my handwriting has become tiny. Some days I feel fine; other days I feel totally shattered and have to take cat naps four or five times a day.
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One very positive event that has come out of the publication of the book is Bill’s reconnecting with his former colleagues. As a result, last year - on April Fools Day - he organised a rail excursion to Dublin for bus-pass mates so that they could spend a few hours in the Fair City with colleagues they hadn’t seen for years. (It was, in fact, this get-together that gave rise to the title of Bill’s book.) ‘The idea,’ says Bill, ‘came about from two of my former friends, who were drummers, being diagnosed with throat cancer. They were coping quite well after their operations but I was starting to get a bit concerned about my own Parkinson’s, so we decided to start meeting up for coffee and were then joined by Roy Kane, who had drummed for Van Morrison. Gradually the group started to build up and soon we numbered 20! Then the idea came up that we would get the train to Dublin with our free travel passes. It was a very emotional trip and you can actually see it on our Youtube link (https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=1J5ALz1kDdw) which totally captures the spirit. The craic, as they say, was mighty!’ So mighty, in fact, that Bill and his mates are repeating the trip this April Fools Day. ‘We’re looking forward to this year’s trip to Dublin,’ he says. ‘We followed last year’s up with a trip to Portrush and we now seem to have regular coffee meetings. There’s no doubt that getting together on a regular basis has rejuvenated us and given us a new lease of life.’ (Bill’s book Big Hand for the Band can be bought while stocks last on Amazon and in No Alibis bookshop in Botanic Avenue Belfast.) 84 Senior Times l March - April 2016 l www.seniortimes.ie
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Crossword: Four copies of Alice Taylor’s The Women Mary Lynch, Youghal Noreen Burke, Dublin 5 Fidelma McCall, Dublin 24 Nora Faherty, Galway A break in a Select Hotel Michael McDonald, Dublin 6W Three copies of Neven Maguire’s book Fast Glenda Treacy, Celbridge Terry Pope, Blarney Carmel Healion, Tullamore Three copies of Frank Kelly’s The Next Gig
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‘But many of these manifestations are not obvious to others. People with Parkinson’s don’t lose friends; they stay young at heart and tend to have a wrinkle-free, fresh-faced look about them. And I am not going to give up without a fight. When I’m feeling down, I shall vamp chords on the piano or pick up my guitar and play. When my hands are shaking and my knees are weak I will remember Elvis. I shall fight it on the beaches. I shall fight it in the fields and the streets....’
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Northern Ireland welcomes unique veterans’ centre pensions. In addition, it has secured over £2 million a year in pensions and almost £5 million in back pay and compensation. ‘On average,’ Robert told Senior Times, ‘we see 25 veterans a week and assist them in dealing with their issues. Obviously we don’t tackle all of these issues by ourselves, but work alongside other professional bodies, but the simple fact is that, to date, the veterans in Northern Ireland have been ignored and we want to give them a voice.’ To date, Beyond the Battlefield has been operating out of a building on the Jubilee Road in Newtownards but now the charity is facing a move to Northern Ireland’s only centre dedicated to helping veterans, with the charity opening the doors to its new facility on the town’s Regent Street in the former Town & Country Hotel building. Robert believes that the centre will not only be beneficial for veterans, but for the wider community in general, and predicts that it will become a hub of activity. ‘In addition to our work with the veterans, we’ll also be using the centre through the week to bring different community groups through, so they can get a better understanding of how the military and civilians really do relate to each other. We’re trying to get rid of this taboo that all soldiers are killers out of the way. ‘Our work will be ongoing for some time. Our project will bring enormous help and relief for up to 44,000 veterans who have served, or are still serving, in Her Majesty’s Forces. (The charity actually works with older veterans from as far back as World War II and have actually just secured the Légion d’Honneur for two Normandy veterans!). We anticipate that our work will ease the burden on GPs and the health service – particularly the mental health service. Robert McCartney, founder of the charity Beyond the Battlefield
Until now, soldiers returning to Northern Ireland from campaigns in Iraq or Afghanistan, have had to simply return to ‘normal’ life with no outside assistance. Perhaps unsurprisingly, many have found the transition from the battlefield to domestic life difficult and – faced with financial difficulties, family problems and no employment possibilities - have become ensconced in a life of alcohol, drugs, crime and domestic violence. Put simply, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is rife among those returning from action. Fortunately, since January 2012, the veterans have found support from a local charity ‘Beyond the Battlefield’, which was specifically established to provide them with the assistance they need. And they could have no better support since the charity’s founder, Robert McCartney. ‘Our charity fulfils a number of roles,’ says Robert, ‘and this begins with an assessment to establish a veteran’s needs. This is followed by counselling ex-service people who leave the Forces suffering from a variety of symptoms and problems, which indicate that they are suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). They often also have comorbidity issues and mental health issues, which can include: stress, alcohol abuse, drugs, domestic abuse, suicidal tendencies, bereavement issues and financial difficulties. ‘Our counsellors mainly come from an ex-service background. They’re all fully qualified and are members of at least two professional bodies. We feel that this is highly beneficial to our clients as most healthcare professionals do not have experience of military action and the battlefield.’ Since January 2012, Beyond the Battlefield has counselled over 200 veterans, discharging 162 of them as fit for work and has helped to rehouse 48 homeless veterans. It has also attended 46 successful tribunals, garnering the veterans with an increase of at least 20 per cent in their 86 Senior Times l March - April 2016 l www.seniortimes.ie
‘Going forward, we intend to target all service leavers settling in Northern Ireland by developing and delivering a package consisting of lectures and information sheets, which will inform individuals and families of the issues they face in resettlement and the best way in which these issues can be addressed. We’re also developing a learning package for schools, informing them about life in the services, and the challenges faced by service people and their families. ‘We also intend to set up a programme working with veterans, who have problems and are unemployed; setting up and developing a course, which will lead them back to work through reintroducing them to the social skills and integration they require to be retrained for employment.’ In addition to the Regent Street building, Beyond the Battlefield also has a 92-acre site just outside Killyleagh that was once a farm, but which has now been converted for therapeutic sessions. ‘We couldn’t have found a better building for our needs. There will be counselling rooms at the back, accommodation at the top, which can cater for families, and conference and training facilities on the first floor. It meets every need that a veteran has.’ ‘I want every veteran in Northern Ireland – and beyond – to feel that it’s their centre’, says Robert, ‘and that everybody’s got a piece of it. The centre belongs to every individual veteran, so regardless of his needs, he can actually, quite rightly, walk in through the doors and ask for those needs to be met. We’ll do everything that we can in our power to help him. We’ve already had a lot of experience over the years with the particular issues that affect veterans such as pensions and compensation, but we really need to keep that support going – particularly with regard to the homeless situation. Even over the last few weeks we had to turn seven homeless veterans away, but thankfully, we were able to sort alternative accommodation for them.’
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Meeting Place SPECIAL NOTICES
From Monica: Apologies to all the people who were trying to contact me in November. The appropriate sequence of digits in my phone number should be 228 and NOT 288.
REPLY TO BOX NUMBER M10. DUBLIN GENT looking for lady (not too tall) to practice, waltz, quickstep, tango and foxtrot with a view to taking part in competitions. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER M11
SELF RELIANT CORK CITY GENT, warm, conversationally good, informed. WLTM expansive, confident, self-caring and self-responsible lady for mature, engaging and good company. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER M1
KERRY LADY LATE 60s, RETIRED, with no commitments, NS, SD, caring with GSOH, WLTM sincere gentleman for social life and share general interests and for friendship and possible relationship. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER M12
DUBLIN LADY YOUNG MID 60s, educated, divorced, petite (am told attractive) WLTM unattached male, NS, 60-70 with similar interests which are music, walking, love of nature, good conversation and general interests in life and living! REPLY TO BOX NUMBER M2
RESPECTABLE DUBLIN PROFESSIONAL businessman 60s, NS, tall medium build, told attractive. Many interests, very private. WLTM mature, affectionate, interesting feminine woman for friendship, romance and shared mutual enjoyment. Discretion assured and expected. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER M13
ACTIVE UNATTACHED TIP LADY, 53, semiretired, no ties. Seeks male of female travelling companion anywhere in Ireland. Also interested in city breaks, walking holidays, cruises, anywhere off the beaten track, near or far. I’ve plenty of destinations in my ‘bucket list’ – do you? REPLY TO BOX NUMBER M3 CULTURED, PROFESSIONAL DUBLIN WIDOW, various interests include music, theatre, films, walking, and outdoor life. WLTM sincere gent to share and enjoy happy times together – the best is yet to come! REPLY TO BOX NUMBER M4 SINGLE NORTH EAST LADY, EARLY 60s, attractive, active with outgoing personality, sincere, kind and caring. Enjoy cinema, theatre, walking, hiking, restaurants and travel. WLTM sincere active man with GSOH, for friendship, travel, chatting and the simple things of life. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER M5 DUBLIN-BASED RETIRED, EDUCATED WIDOWER, ND, NS, mid-70s, artistic, WLTM an educated, Dublin-based lady 68-75 for friendship and companionship. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER M6 YOUNG DUBLIN LADY, 61, interests include swimming, walking, reading, travelling, yoga, laughter, fun and GSOH, cycling, spirituality. WLTM soulmate from Dublin area. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER M7 LOVELY WELL-EDUCATED GALWAY WOMAN, late 50s, 5ft 6in, slim build, charming with GSOH, NS/SD, well-travelled, kind and sincere, Taurean. Interests include art, music, painting, reading, theatre, concerts, walking, yoga, healthy lifestyle, golf and bridge. WLTM sincere, attractive mature gentleman for friendship and companionship who has good values, with similar interests and is kind and caring. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER M8 DUBLIN MAN 62, tall, slim, energetically fit, good dress sense, NS, SD witty sense of humour. Likes great outdoors, hill walking, sailing, rugby, history, decent restaurants, cinema, theatre, classical and traditional music. Likes visiting different parts of the country. WLTM an active female 60/65 who enjoys and has a young outlook on life. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER M9 SINGLE DUBLIN MAN 60 NO TIES NS SD GSOH. Interests include good conversation, travel, walking, reading. WLTM sincere down to earth lady 60-65 for friendship, good company and possible relationship.
SINGLE MIDLANDS TEACHER, EARLY 50, enjoys reading, history, computers, sport, foreign holidays, and WLTM interesting male for friendship/relationship.REPLY TO BOX NUMBER M14 SINGLE DUBLIN GENT, 60s, NS, ND, many interests, WLTM refined female from any part of the country. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER M15 PETITE DUBLIN LADY, 60s, returned emigrant WLTM kind, cultured gentleman with a GSOH for friendship/companionship. Hobbies include reading, walking, theatre, classical music, art appreciation, travel, intelligent conversation and world politics. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER B1 ATTRACTIVE SOUTH DUBLIN BUSINESSMAN, 60s, NS, semi-retired, medium build, tall, kind, considerate, WLTM an attractive, mature, affectionate, caring woman for friendship, companionship and to share special moments. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER B2 SINGLE MAYO LADY, MID-50s, with many and varied interests, seeks genuine man for friendship/relationship, to spend and enjoy time together travelling, eating out, chatting, having fun and companionship. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER B3
REPLY TO BOX NUMBER B7 ATTRACTIVE, ARTICULATE NEW YORK WOMAN educationalist, 60s, now living in Ireland and within the Dublin catchment area WLTM a cultured, refined man with no ties. Interests wide and varied and include love of life, good conversation, comedy, theatre, travel, reading and the arts. My life is a tapestry of colours and sharing experiences which makes it more enriching. Are you my long awaited other half? Do answer ASAP REPLY TO BOX NUMBER F1 OFFALY-BASED RETIRED BUSINESSMAN, 66, fit, good looking, SD, NS, GSOH. Varied interests. WLTM a nice lady who is caring with GSOH, SD, NS for friendship and possible relationship. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER F2 ATTRACTIVE DUBLIN LADY, 60s, widowed with no ties, very active and fit, with outgoing personality. NS, SD with many interests. Enjoy walking, dancing, dining out, lively conversation and current affairs. WLTM educated, sincere gent with GSOH, 60s, 70s for friendship/relationship. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER F3 SEPARATED, RETIRED GENT 67, medium height and build, ND, light smoker, enjoys reading, walks, films, music, WLTM female over 50 with view to a relationship. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER F4 CORK LADY 64 SINGLE, likes dancing, gardening, history, animals and walking. Good listener, GSOH, NS, SD, WLTM respectable gent, single or widower, from anywhere in Ireland for friendship/ companionship. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER F5 ATTRACTIVE, PETITE, DUBLIN LADY, single, retired professional, late 60s WLTM kind, sincere, respectable. Interests include dancing, cinema/ theatre and walking and eating out. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER F6 NORTH WEST DONEGAL LADY, very young 64, nature lover, enjoys going for country walks, WLTM meet either male or female for friendship, weekends away, or perhaps form a friendship group. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER F7
GALWAY GENT, 60s, UNATTACHED, with many interests, GSOH. WLTM unattached, kind, sincere lady for friendship and whatever the future holds. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER B4
DUBLIN LADY 60s, retired. Interests include history, dancing, reading, cinema and travelling with gentleman with similar interests. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER F8
MID-SOUTH COAST WIDOW, NS, ND, sincere, refined. Interests include baroque music, rugby, books, gardening, animals and world affairs. WLTM sincere free male/widower 68-73 to share above for friendship and companionship. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER B5
RETIRED FEMALE PRIMARY TEACHER living in the midlands, early 50s, wishes to meet interesting man for friendship or maybe more. Enjoys reading, walking, history, sport. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER F9
KIND, SINCERE SOUTH COUNTY DUBLIN man, 63, 5ft 10in, good appearance medium/slim build divorced, no children, NS, ND, enjoys reading, walking, conversation, radio, own home, and car. WLTM NS lady at least 5ft 3in tall for friendship/ relationship. Phone number please. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER B6 LOVELY LEINSTER LADY, 58, 5ft 4in, slim, blonde WLTM tall, well-built gentleman with Old School values, and above all honesty, and sense of humour. Very feminine, dislike outdoors, love books, theatre, fine dining and good conversation, especially about politics. Strongly business and work orientated. Don’t suffer fools or overly PC people. More Jane Austen than Sex in the City! Interested?
88 Senior Times l March - April 2016 l www.seniortimes.ie
SINGLE TIPPERARY LADY, never married, no ties, well-travelled, own home, GSOH, loves theatre, music, sports, walking, WLTM refined, caring gent 65-75, single or widower. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER F10 CORK LADY MID-60s, sincere and good sense of humour. Enjoys dancing, animals and good conversation and people with a good sense of humour. WLTM sincere single or widower teetotaller gent with a good sense of humour. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER M1 KERRY LADY EARLY 60s, NS, occasional drinker, would like to correspond with honest, caring and respectable person for friendship and companionship. Many interests, including reading, walking, gardening, wildlife, cinema, current affairs
Why not subscribe to Ireland’s publication for people who don’t act their age?
SeniorTimes magazine is packed full of informative articles covering health, finance, retirement advice, hobbies and pastimes, interviews with senior personalities, competitions and much, much more! For just €36 you can have 8 issues of SeniorTimes delivered to your door. Last months 96 page issue can be viewed by going to www.seniortimes.ie You can subscribe by: • Phoning us on 01 496 9028 during office hours • Paying via PayPal on the Subscribe Page of the SeniorTimes website • Or by filing out the form below and posting to the address at the bottom I would like to subscribe to SeniorTimes magazine for €36 for eight issues including postage Name ___________________________________ Address _____________________________________ ______________________________________________________ Tel: __________________________ Please debit my Credit/Debit Card: Card Number _____________________________________________ Expiry ___________________________________ Signature ____________________________________ SeniorTimes magazine is published by S&L Promotions Ltd Unit 1 , 15 Oxford Lane, Ranelagh, Dublin 6 • Tel: 01 496 9028 • Email info@slp.ie
etc. Told I am a good humoured and caring person. All genuine replies welcome. Discretion assured and expected. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER M2 DONEGAL WIDOWER, LATE 50s, WLTM woman, 50-65, from North West for friendship and perhaps more. Wide range of interests. SD. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER P1 KERRY LADY EARLY 60s, fit, sincere, outgoing, loves nature, travelling, dancing and fishing. WLTM sincere man for friendship and companionship. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER P2 ROMANTIC DUBLIN GENTLEMAN, 60s, civilised, open, tall, no children, GSOH, positive, loyal, dependable. WLTM cheerful widow to share this wonderful world, in friendship, perhaps romance, perhaps committed relationship. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER P3 DUBLIN BASED LADY, 50s, originally from country, interested in weekends away, cinema, reading, dining out, gardening, outdoor life, music. WLTM man for friendship and possible relationship. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER P4 REFINED, EDUCATED DUBLIN MAN, EARLY 60s, WLTM sincere female from anywhere in Ireland for friendship and maybe more. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER P5 GALWAY LAD, EARLY 50s, NS, SD, enjoys nights out, keep fit, healthy eating and much more. WLTM male 50-60 for a relationship. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER P6 CORK LADY 50sh looking for a male pen friend. Love baking, cycling, swimming, beaches, fresh air, comedy, nature and day trips, travelling. WLTM man of around 50, single, NS. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER P7 LIMERICK LADY MID 60s, unattached, runs own business, young in outlook, caring, sincere, and personable. Interests include film, theatre, dancing and travel. WLTM gent of similar vintage and with same interests. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER P8 DONEGAL LADY, VERY YOUNG 64, nature lover, enjoys going for country walks, WLTM either male or female for friendship away etc. or perhaps form a friendship group. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER P9 DUBLIN LADY 70s WLTM sincere gentleman for friendship, companionship with GSOH similar interests which include travel, walking, reading, bowls and music. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER P10 MATURE, RETIRED BUSINESS LADY, MUNSTER REGION, NS, ND. Still young at heart and searching for that special man to share retirement years. Many interests and include dancing, bridge, walking and travel. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER P11 SINGLE SOUTH DUB GENT, MID 60s, interested in travel, reading, eating out, outdoor life. NS, SD, WLTM friendly lady, mid-50s to mid-60s for companionship and perhaps more. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER T1 DUBLIN LADY, MID-60s, WLTM Dublin-based professional gentleman, 60s to 70s. Love Island hopping in the summer and have lots of interests such as travel, reading and dining out. ALA. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER T2 RESPECTFUL DUBLIN MAN, 60s, never married. Interests include walking, travel, art, etc. Good humoured. WLTM single lady who has never been married for friendship and possible relationship. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER T3
ATTRACTIVE LIMERICK LADY, unattached, semi-retired business woman, interests include cooking, travel, dining out, walking and dancing. Seeks gentleman with similar interests and outlook. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER T4
REPLY TO BOX NUMBER A9 KERRY/LIMERICK BASED LADY, 60s, returned emigrant would like to hear from similar males and females for friendship, travel, socialising. NS. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER A10
MIDLANDS MAN, LATE 50s, retired civil servant, well-travelled. Interests include gardening, fishing, walking, cycling, amateur drama and independent travelling. WLTM a genuine, interesting lady, who enjoys life, for friendship and travelling REPLY TO BOX NUMBER T5
SINGLE PROFESSIONAL, SOUTH DUBLIN LADY, mid 50s, good looking, slim, 160cm, enthusiastic, university degree, interested in walking, ballet, ballroom dancing, theatre, yoga, healthy lifestyle, WLTM A single professional, caring man with similar interests, 55-63, NS, SD, for friendship, companionship, leading to possible relationship. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER A11
SOUTH CO DUBLIN LADY, MID 60s, seeks friends who enjoy travel, opera, classical and popular music, literature and theatre. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER T6 LOVE OF LIFE SOUTH DUBLIN GENT, seeks lady mid-50s who loves life but missing a friend or companion/soulmate to share those special moments. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER T7 DUBLIN GENT, 67, NEVER MARRIED, cheerful, cultured, unpretentious, presentable, respectful. Too many interests to mention. Seeks positive lady to share the joy of life, the joy of living and the joy of laughter. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER T8 NORTH CORK MAN, LATE 50s, single, shy lonely. Interests in many things. WLTM down to earth non-professional lady with no family or ties for shared mutual pleasure. Age or size unimportant. Ideally living in North Cork area. Discretion assured. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER T9 DUBLIN WIDOW NS, 70s, kind, educated (‘I’m told I’m attractive), seeks honest, caring widower for friendship, companionship for the Golden Days! Varied interests: outdoors, current affairs, reading, cinema/theatre, quizzes, travel, and game for a laugh. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER A1 DIVORCED CORK LADY WLTM gent 65-75 for companionship. Interests include archaeology, walking, dancing and adventures. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER A2 DUBLIN NORTHSIDE WIDOWER, early 70s, full of life with many and varied interests. NS, SD. Spring approaching and need a lovely lady to hold my hand! Discretion assured. Seeking friendship and possible relationship. ALA REPLY TO BOX NUMBER A3 SOUTH COUNTY DUBLIN PROFESSIONAL LADY (64) WLTM genuine, unattached gent for friendship, possible relationship. I am petite, considered to be a good conversationalist and very feminine. I have travelled extensively and am interested in the arts, history, science, theology and current affairs. Also enjoy walking and reading. GSOH, NS, SD. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER A6 TIPP LADY WLTM LADIES aged 60-75 from Limerick, Clare Tipperary area for outings and days out and for a having a chat. Interested in crafts, reading, and arts. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER A7 EDUCATED, ATTRACTIVE SOUTH EAST MAN, 66, divorced, no family and no ties WLTM sincere lady 50-75 for mature relationship. Very honest, genuine, respectable, kind and caring. Enjoy walking, reading, current affairs, travel, good conversation, theatre, sport, keeping fit and active. 6ft in height, NS, SD with GSOH. All genuine replies welcome. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER A8 SOUTH EAST FEMALE (60) with an outgoing, positive personality, WLTM genuine gent for friendship and possible relationship. NS, SD with many interests, including walking, travel, dining out and bridge.
90 Senior Times l March - April 2016 l www.seniortimes.ie
MIDLANDS MAN, RETIRED PUBLIC SERVANT, EARLY 60s, WLTM an interesting lady for friendship and travelling. Widely travelled, no ties, enjoys walking, fishing, cycling and outdoor activities and travelling. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER A12 WIDOWED MIDLANDS LADY, 60s. NS, SD, GSOH, enjoys good company, music, dancing, walking, reading, foreign travel and weekends away in Ireland. WLTM gentleman with similar interests. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER A13 WIDOWED DUBLIN LADY, 60s, NS, SD, attractive, active, fit, with outgoing personality. Enjoys walking, music, theatre and dining out. WLTM educated, sincere gent with GSOH for friendship and companionship. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER A15 DUBLIN MAN, LATE 50s, returned emigrant, WLTM men and women with similar experience who may be interested in meeting and possibly to form a group. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER A16 DUBLIN WIDOW, EARLY SIXTIES, but don’t look it, WLTM caring widower for friendship and socialising. Interests include reading, gardening and eating out. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER A17
TO PLACE AN ADVERTISEMENT If you are interested in meeting someone of the opposite or same sex, send your advertisement, with four stamps (which is the average reply rate) enclosed in the envelope, to: Meeting Place, Senior Times, Unit 1, 15 Oxford Lane, Ranelagh, Dublin 6. Or email: john@slp.ie IMPORTANT Ensure you give your approximate age and the area you live, noting your interests. The advertisement should not be more than 60 words. If you are replying to the advertisement via Senior Time’s email, ensure you include your postal address for those not on the Net. (Only Senior Times will have these details). Deadline for receipt of advertisements for the next issue is April 25th 2016 TO REPLY TO AN ADVERTISEMENT Each reply to an advertisement should be enclosed in a plain, stamped envelope, with the box number marked in pencil so that it can be erased before being forwarded to the advertiser. Send these envelopes in a covering envelope to the address above so that we can forward them to the advertiser. There is no limit to the amount of advertisements to which you can reply, provided each one is contained in a plain, stamped envelope. Ensure you give your approximate age and the area you live. For those submitting their advertisements by email ensure that you also supply Senior Times with your postal address so that we can post replies from those who have replied by post. (Only Senior Times will have your postal address).
Citizens Information Service
Know Your Rights Advice from the Citizens Information Service
My house was flooded and badly damaged. What help can I get?
You will be repaid the cost if you meet the requirements. This is provided for by the Cross-Border Healthcare Directive.
The Department of Social Protection’s Humanitarian Assistance Scheme provides means-tested emergency financial help immediately following flooding. The Government has not set a limit on the amount that can be paid to an individual household under this scheme. The amount paid depends on how severe the damage is and your ability to meet these costs. The scheme covers: • Emergency income support payments. • Damage to your home and its essential contents, such as carpets, flooring, furniture and household appliances and bedding. • Structural damage may also be considered. The Department of Social Protection also provides exceptional and urgent needs payments which can help in the aftermath of a flood. If your home has been flooded and you are getting help from the Humanitarian Assistance Scheme, you can apply to have your 2016 Local Property Tax (LPT) payment deferred (even if you do not qualify for deferral under the normal criteria). Contact the LPT Helpline on 1890 200 255 to make the relevant arrangements. The Health Service Executive (HSE) has information on cleaning a home after flooding and dealing with the psychological effects of flooding. The Office of Public Works (OPW) has a website, flooding.ie, that gives information about what to do before, during and after a flood. There are two publications giving details of the help available: • Leaflet – Schemes Available For People Affected by Recent Flooding • Booklet – Government Assistance For People Affected by Flooding
The Directive covers services that are publicly funded and available in Ireland. These include acute hospital services and community-based out-patient care. Other services covered include physiotherapy, ophthalmic, psychology, disability and mental health services. Occupational therapy services and dental and orthodontic services are also covered, but with some exceptions. Treatments that qualify for the Treatment Abroad Scheme (in general, treatments not available in Ireland) are not covered under the Cross-Border Healthcare Directive. You must be referred to the health service that you require abroad in the same way that you would be referred to public health services in Ireland. This referral may be by your GP (family doctor) or public hospital consultant for example. They may also be able to tell you whether the service you require is covered by the Directive. You can also check with the National Contact Point (details below). If the treatment involves an overnight stay in hospital, then it will need to be authorised in advance by the Health Service Executive (HSE). For other treatments, you should check whether prior authorisation is required. You pay the costs of treatment and then apply for a refund when you return to Ireland. The amount repaid is the amount that the treatment would cost in Ireland or the cost of your treatment abroad if that is less. It does not include other costs such as travel. The HSE has published refund amounts for different treatments. To get a refund of treatment costs, you and your healthcare provider abroad must complete a HSE form. You then submit it with the healthcare provider invoice and receipt.
You can get the leaflets on the welfare.ie website or from your local Citizens Information Centre.
For information about prior authorisation, applying for a refund, or for any other queries contact: National Contact Point, Cross-Border Healthcare Directive Department, St Canice’s Hospital, Dublin Road, Kilkenny, Telephone (056) 778 4546, Email: crossborderdirective@hse.ie.
I need to get a medical procedure carried out. I have just found out that I can expect to wait over a year for the procedure in Ireland. Can I get my medical costs refunded if I travel to another country in Europe to have this procedure?
I’m getting Jobseeker’s Allowance and am really interested in working with food. I found a café near me that is willing to offer me a job. They have asked me to do a food safety (HACCP) course first but I can’t afford the course fee. Is there any help with this?
If you are entitled to public health services that are available in Ireland, you can access these services in the European Economic Area (EEA).
You should talk to your Department of Social Protection (DSP) case officer about a Training Support Grant. This scheme can give you quick Senior Times lMarch - April 2016 l www.seniortimes.ie 91
access to short-term training that will help you take up a work opportunity. Your DSP case officer can approve a grant under this scheme where: • A training need is identified that is not provided by DSP directly or any other State provider and is not available quickly or in a suitable location. • The intervention identified is linked to both the activation needs of the jobseeker and labour market conditions. • The intervention is part of the agreed personal progression or action plan to enter or re-enterwork. • They are satisfied that you have provided reasonable evidence or grounds of need (for example, in the form of a job offer or of a potential job offer) or an identified skill gap or a requirement to maintain or achieve accreditation (for example, safe pass, driving licences, HACCP, security industry permits). You can get funding of up to €500 a year under the scheme. (However the maximum contribution that can be approved and paid for essential driver training is €250.) You need to provide a quotation from the training provider. Generally the grant is paid after you have finished the programme, done the relevant assessments and achieved certification. I heard there is a new passport card. Does it replace the passport book? How can I get one?
Our puppy has an identification disc on her collar. Does she need this, or should we just get her microchipped? What are the rules? Under the Control of Dogs Acts 1986 and 1992, dogs must at all times wear a collar with the name and address of the owner inscribed on it or on a plate, badge or disc, so you are right to have an identification disc on your puppy’s collar. However, you must also get her microchipped and registered on an authorised database under the Microchipping of Dogs Regulations 2015. Since September 2015, all newborn pups must be microchipped and registered. From 31 March 2016, the Regulations will apply to all dogs. Even if a dog has already been microchipped (for a pet passport, for instance) it will now have to be registered on an authorised database as well. The microchip can only be implanted by a vet, a veterinary nurse or a person who has been trained by one of the authorised databases. The microchip contains a unique 15-digit number. When you register with an authorised database, this number will be recorded on it along with your name and address details. This means that, if your dog goes missing and is found, you can be identified as the owner and be reunited with your dog. If you move house, you will need to update your contact details on the database. If you plan to buy a new dog, the seller will have to give you its certificate of registration and you should forward it to the relevant database to get the details updated. The Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine has published a list of authorised databases, along with a set of Frequently Asked Questions on agriculture.gov.ie. What are the new employment rights structures? How can I make a complaint about my employer?
No, the new credit-card sized Irish passport card does not replace the passport book. You can use the new passport card for travel within the European Union, the European Economic Area (Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway) and Switzerland. For all other travel you must use your passport book. To apply for the passport card you must be aged 18 or over when applying. It is not available for children. You must hold a valid Irish passport book and the personal details you provide when applying must be exactly the same as those on your passport book. The card is valid for a maximum of five years or for the time remaining on your passport book if this is less than five years. You can apply for the passport card online on the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade website, dfa.ie, or you can use the Department’s passport app for smartphones and tablets. The card costs €35 and there is an additional delivery charge of €5 if you are applying from outside Ireland. When making the application you will need: • Your valid passport book • Your photograph in digital form (it must meet the required passport standard) • A debit or credit card You can track your application’s progress on the Department’s website using the application number issued when you apply. 92 Senior Times l March - April 2016 l www.seniortimes.ie
Since 1 October 2015, the organisations involved in employment rights enforcement are the Workplace Relations Commission and the Labour Court. The Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) is where all complaints are first made. All hearings are now heard by a single WRC adjudicator. The Labour Court deals with all workplace relations appeals, so you may appeal to it against the decisions of an adjudicator. If you wish to make a complaint about breaches of employment legislation you must use the online complaint form available on workplacerelations.ie. You use the same form to make complaints about breaches of equal status legislation. However, for equal status complaints, you must first (in writing) notify the person or organisation that you are complaining about that you plan to lodge a complaint against them. When you fill out the form you will be asked for contact and other details for yourself and your employer. You will be asked to indicate the general area in which the complaint falls (for example, pay, hours of work and so on). Then you will be asked to select the nature of the complaint. For example, under pay it may be non-receipt of a payslip. You will be asked for some other details. You will need to set out your complaint in your own words. When you have completed the form you can submit it electronically to the Workplace Relations Commission. You can read a list of frequently asked questions about making a complaint on workplacerelations.ie.
If you need information about employment law and your employment rights you can contact the Workplace Relations Commission’s Information and Customer Service.
My husband is getting a payment for me with his pension. My mother is in poor health and I have been caring for her for the last year. Can I qualify for a carer’s payment and how will it affect my husband’s pension? If your husband is claiming an Increase for a Qualified Adult for you with his pension, you can apply for a half-rate Carer’s Allowance. If you qualify, you can keep the Increase for a Qualified Adult in full. This will not affect your husband’s pension.
PRSI charge at 4% of your earnings. Finally, deduct your PRSI credit from the PRSI charge. The result is the amount of PRSI you pay. For example, for gross weekly earnings of €377: 1. One-sixth of your earnings over €352.01 is €377- €352.01 = €24.99, divided by 6 = €4.17. 2. Subtract this from the maximum credit of €12, giving you a credit of €7.83. 3. The basic PRSI charge is 4% of €377 = €15.08. 4. You will pay €7.25 PRSI weekly in 2016 (€15.08 minus your €7.83 PRSI credit). A friend of mine was very seriously assaulted but has been told that the person who was arrested will not be prosecuted. Can she find out the reason for this?
You must meet the qualifying criteria for Carer’s Allowance. For example, your mother must require full-time care and attention and you must satisfy a means test. You can read more about the conditions for Carer’s Allowance on citizensinformation.ie. To apply fill in an application form for Carer’s Allowance (CR1). You can get this form online or from your local Intreo centre, social welfare local office or Citizens Information Centre. The form includes a medical report, which must be signed by the person receiving care and completed by their doctor. Note that the application form for Carer’s Allowance asks for a lot of detailed information from you. The Department of Social Protection has to work out your income and the income of your husband to assess the means of your household. The Department must also examine the medical condition of your mother to decide if she needs full-time care and attention. In addition, the Department must be satisfied that you, the carer, are providing full-time care and attention and are able to do so. You can get help with filling in the form from your local Citizens Information Centre. If you satisfy the conditions for Carer’s Allowance it will be awarded at half of the rate that would apply if you were not getting any other payment. You will also be eligible for the Respite Care Grant and a Free Travel Pass. I earn €377 a week and pay Class A PRSI on my earnings. Will I get the new PRSI credit? From 1 January 2016, a new Pay Related Social Insurance (PRSI) credit applies to earnings between€352.01 and€424 per week. (If you earn less than €352 you do not pay any PRSI.) Previously people who earned very little more than €352 had to pay 4% PRSI on all their earnings. The new credit will reduce the amount of PRSI you have to pay. The credit is tapered and the amount of the credit depends on your earnings. The maximum credit is€12. For example, if you earn€352.01 per week, you will get the maximum PRSI credit of €12. On these earnings of €352.01, your PRSI charge (calculated at 4% of your earnings) would be €14.08. After the €12 credit is deducted, you will pay PRSI of €2.08 instead. If you earn between €352.01 and €424 per week, the maximum credit of €12 is reduced by one-sixth of the amount of your weekly earnings over €352.01. You work out how much PRSI you will pay in four steps. First, calculate one-sixth of your earnings over €352.01. Then subtract this from the maximum credit of €12 to get your PRSI credit. Then calculate the basic
Yes she can. Since 16 November 2015, if the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) decides not to prosecute, the victim can ask the DPP for a summary of the reasons for the decision not to prosecute. In a fatal case a family member of the victim can ask. If the decision not to prosecute was made by the Gardaí, you must ask the Gardaí for a summary of the reasons for the decision. To request a summary of the reasons for the decision by the DPP not to prosecute you must send a Request for a Summary of Reasons form to the: Communications and Victims Liaison Unit, Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, Infirmary Road, Dublin 7 The form is available on dppireland.ie or from your local Garda station. You must send your request for reasons within 28 days of the date you are told of the decision not to prosecute. In some cases the DPP might extend this time limit. If you are not satisfied, you can request a review of a decision. The review will be carried out by a lawyer who was not involved in making the original decision. If you have already requested a summary of the reasons for the decision, you must make your request for a review within 28 days of the date on the letter telling you of the reasons. If you have not asked for the reasons for the decision, you must make your request for a review within 56 days (8 weeks) of the date you are told of the decision not to prosecute. To request a review of the DPP’s decision, you should write to the Communications and Victims Liaison Unit. Know Your Rights has been compiled by Citizens Information Service which provides a free and confidential service to the public. Information is also available online at citizensinformation.ie and from the Citizens Information Phone Service, 0761 07 4000. Senior Times lMarch - April 2016 l www.seniortimes.ie 93
Crossword Crossword Number 75 by Zoë Devlin
ACROSS 1 4 7 11 15 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 29 30 31 32 38 40 41 42 45 46 47 51 53 54 55 57 60 61 62 64 65 70 72 73 77 78 79 80 84 85 86 87 92 93 94 95 100 101 102 103 104 105 106 107
Adjust with lead weight to make vertical (5) And 11 Across. Armed insurrection of 1916 (6,6) Solicit votes in electoral campaign (7) See 4 Across. Cor! What a mythical bird! (3) 1836 siege & massacre in San Antonio (5) ‘The ___ of Notre Dame’ by Victor Hugo (9) RTE’s 5-part drama commemorating 4 Across (9) Light informal meals (6) Sir Francis ___, Irish-born painter (5) ‘___ Van Winkle’ story by Washington Irvine (3) Writer of ‘Riddle of the Sands’ or our 4th President (8) 17th c. English diarist, Samuel ___ (5) One hundredth of a litre (2) Doomed, unlucky - like a flat deli ? (3-5) Spielberg film about a man-eating shark (4) Star of ‘Dr Zhivago’, ___ Sharif (4) Zesty or having a pungent tast (7) One of four playing cards with single pip (3) Medal or award (10) One who hears things (8) Pairs often go to this European capital (5) Would a redcoat e’er redo the paint etc. of a house (10) Snoopy, prying, offensively curious (4) Sunshades (8) Mid-day (4) Menagerie where wild animals are housed (3) Type of fastener (3) Beam or type of fish (3) Intricate network or trap (3) Armed conflicts (4) Example regarded as typical, like mice pens? (8) Cancel, annul or reverse an action (4) One who takes advantage .. for a rare old fee? (10) Manservant such as Jeeves (5) Traditional Scottish musical instruments (8) Would this promoter promise air? (10) These are frequently asked questions (1.1.1) A clever type of butcher’s knife! (7) Hardy’s heroine ‘___ of the d’Urbervilles’ (4) Yellow Dutch cheese (4) See 50 Down. A short street for a short saint? (2) It takes two to do this dance (5) Hard bony frame inside animals & people (8) Highly explosive compound (1.1.1) Make amends for one’s misdeeds (5) Person with fair skin and hair (6) Would elves root for FDR? (9) Legendary wife of King Arthur (9) Least favourable outcome .. not the best (5) Glide on snow (3) Warmest season of the year (6) Red-haired star of ‘The Quiet Man’, ___ O’Hara (7) Entertains, diverts, makes laughter (6) Empty-headed, daft, lacking seriousness (5)
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DOWN 1 2 3 4 5 6 8 9 10 12 13 14 16 17 25 26 27 28 33 34 35 36 37 39 43 44 48 49 50 52 56 58 59 63 64 66 67 68 69 71 74 75 76 81 82 83 88 89 90 91 92 96 97 98 99 100
Padraig ___, one of the leaders of 4 Across (6) Oblivious, unsuspectiing (7) Filmed in Enniscorthy, starred Saoirse Ronan (8) Sound reflection or nymph spurned by Narcissus (4) Casual ants love this Christmas saint (5,5) Natives of the former Abyssinia (10) Enquires about .. (4) In an upright orientation (8) Weeps convulsively (4) Spear of frozen water (6) Ulster politician & religious leader, ___ Paisley (3) Strong currents of air (5) You may like this sweet potato? (3) First letter of the Greek alphabet (5) Set of questions evaluating skill or knowledge (11) Dish baked in pastry-lined dish (3) See 88 Down. Reserve.. or idolises these jacket lapels? (7) Daniel O’Donnell or Sinead O’Connor (6) Cork-born Michael ___, killed in ambush 1922 (7) Grant freedom and reduce the bile rate! (8) Shower with love (4) Wheeled vehicle drawn by animal or tractor (5) Donkey or pompous fool (3) Have this hankering for some Japanese money (3) Preserves of fruit or gets stuck (4) Large long-haired Tibetan ox (3) Boyzone singer-songwriter ___ Keating (5) And 85 Across. Irish nationalist - not the meanest grocer! (5,8) The Bard of Avon (11) Overcome by feeling of fright or worship (8) Twitch, especially in the face (3) Have ownership of .. (7) Mariner or sailor (8) Single storey outbuilding (4) Business place where clerical duties are performed (6) Lough ___ is in Counties Leitrim & Roscommon (5) Tom Jones sang of Samson’s barber (7) Undercover agent (3) Group of 3 islands in mouth of Galway Bay (4) US writer & poet, Edgar Allan ___ (3) Air driven backwards by aircraft propeller (10) Those travelling in a bus or train (10) There’s many a listener found in this province (8) Hole in the wall found in the right atmosphere? (1.1.1) Sir Daniel ___-___, star of ‘My Left Foot’ (3-5) And 27 Down. Procedure for voting in next government. (7,8) Located far away, like TV control? (6) Choices made by electors (5) In grounds of Dublin Castle, Chester ___ Library (6) Stately aquatic white long-necked birds (5) It’s quite a feat to eat this Greek cheese! (4) Monster, fiend .. like Shrek perhaps (4) Curved bone between spine and sternum (3) Disorderly state .. or military dining room? (4) Liquor distilled from molasses (3)
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Crafts
Connie McEvoy shows you how to make an egg ‘cosy’ and paint an egg
An egg cup for Easter It was painted freehand using ceramic paintsred straight from it’s wee pot, and a small amount each of blue and yellow mixed in a bottle lid in order to get a matching green for the felt cosy. Paint brush used was a size 2, a cocktail stick was used when taking the blue and yellow ceramic paint from the pots before mixing in the bottle lid (1 end for the blue and the other end for the yellow). This prevented over loading of the brush and allowed for finer strokes where desired when working both tulips and leaves. By starting at the tips using less pressure giving the impression of light and using more pressure working towards the base of motif giving the impression of shade, a predicament was solved as only red, yellow and blue ceramic paints were available!
needle woven leaves, and a fine embroidery needle for working the stem. Some red silk (a small circle) if available for the tulip otherwise felt would suffice, some pins, scissors and a sewing machine.
of stem stitch through both thicknesses at the stem base to include the top of the turned up curved edge, these stitches should be overcast also and serve a dual purpose in acting as a stay to keep the turned up edge in place.
Begin by folding the felt in half, pin in place and draw the cosy shape/outline on both back and front using tailors chalk also the position of the tulip stem on the area that is to be the front of the cosy and mindful of the fact that the stem will extend onto the curved turned up bottom edge.
The leaves are needle-woven next using 2 strands of the same green thread and a tapestry needle. Cut and point a few snips at outer edge of the red silk circle, roll into a tulip shape and hold in place with a few stitches at the base, attach to the stem top and felt with a few more stitches using some green embroidery thread.
Felt Cosy: requirements- 1 piece of green felt measuring 16cms x 8.5cms, 1 skein of 6 strand embroidery thread no 414B light green. A spool of green machine thread- no 40 to match felt, a fine tapestry needle for working
Work the stem first, stem stitch worked using 2 strands of embroidery thread forms a base for the stem which is then over cast with tiny slanted stitches that do not enter the felt. It is important to remember to work 2 or 3 stitches
Remove all pins (except the one that is holding the turned up edge in place) and open the felt flat in order to work embroidery.
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Fold the felt in half again and work tacking stitches along the chalked cosy outline, machine stitch close to the tacking, and cut away all surplus felt using a sharp scissors, remove tacking stitches. The back bottom edge has not been turned up on this cosy but it can be if so desired and will need a tiny stitch to secure the curve in place.
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