Senior Times Magazine July - August 2019 (Ireland) by SeniorTimes Ireland

Issue 100 July-August 2019

100th issue!

Times

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The magazine for people who don’t act their age

Doris Day: last of the Hollywood legends

Tracing your Derry ancestors Genealogist Brian Mitchell advises

Unfamiliar Venice

It’s never too late to get fit

Delish from Donegal

Hidden gems in this city jewel

How to make it happen

Recipes from Donegal Table

PLUS: Mary O’Rourke – Creative Writing - Competitions – Motoring – Travel – Gardening - Health - Meeting Place and much more...

The Seniors Alert Scheme enables older people of limited means to continue to live securely in their homes with confidence, independence and peace of mind by providing them with a free personal monitored alarm.

The scheme is funded by the Department of Rural and Community Development via Pobal.

If a ‘GSM unit’ is required (i.e. equipment that needs to connect to a monitoring service via a mobile phone signal rather than through a landline) there may be an additional fee to cover SIM rental costs.

It is administered locally by community and voluntary groups across the country (Registered with Pobal under the Seniors Alert Scheme). To be eligible to apply for a personal alarm, a person must be aged 65 years or older and: Have limited means and resources Live alone for significant periods of time during the day Live with someone who meets the scheme criteria A person who meets the criteria will receive the equipment free of charge.

The first year of monitoring of the equipment is free. After that the participant will be required to pay an annual fee. To find out more about the Seniors Alert Scheme, please contact your local registered community and voluntary group or Pobal. T: 01 511 7222 E: onlinesupport@pobal.ie W: www.pobal.ie

“Congratulations to the staff of Senior Times magazine as they mark 20 years in business with the 100th Edition." Minister for Rural and Community Development, Michael Ring T.D

100th issue!

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July/August 2019

Contents 6

Blonde, bobbed and as pert as a kitten: Aubrey Malone on the life and far from easy times of one of Hollywood’s last genuine legends.

Unfamiliar Venice: 12 Colette Sheridan finds some hidden gems in this jewel of a city A child- caring contract for grandparents? Are you a disgruntled grandparent and believe you are being taken for granted? Lorna Hogg reports.

Guess the year: Another teaser from Gerry Perkins

Mary’s Musings: 28 In her latest observations Mary O’Rourke discusses the Conservative Party fiasco and her loathing of Boris Johnston, recommends summer books and the success of the University of Limerick. What’s on in the arts: Golf: Dermot Gilleece recalls the politically-charged Amateur Championship at Portmarnock in 1949

34 38

Cosmetics: The popularity rise of ‘natural’ products.

Northern Notes:

Whato its Wooster!: Lorna Hogg on PG Wodehouse

Publishing Directors: Brian McCabe, Des Duggan Editorial Director: John Low Editor At Large: Shay Healy Consultant Editor: Jim Collier Advertising: Willie Fallon 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.,

It’s never too late to get fit: Here’s how to make it happen. Conor O’Hagan explains

Wine World:

Delish from Donegal: 62 Recipes from Brian McDermott’s best-selling Donegal Table. Western Ways: George Keegan on happenings along the Western Seaboard in travel, the arts, food and entertainment.

Hillsborough beckons after a £20 million make-over: 68 Lorna Hogg visits the magnificently restored Co Down attraction.

The lady with the lantern: 22 Colette Sheridan visits Nano Nagle place in Cork which has become ne of the city’s most popular visitor attractions. Golf: Driving force. Profile of golf-mad Eddie Jordan

The other side of Portugal: 72 Mairead Robinson discovers the ‘hidden’ delights of the Alentejo region Tracing your Derry-Londonderry ancestors: Genealogist Brian Mitchell advises

Creative writing: Visitor attractions: Motoring: Know your rights: Crossword: Meeting place: Crafts:

80 86 98 101 103 106 108

Issue 100 July-Aug ust

2019

NOW E3.00

/£2.75

Times

This is the 100th issue of Senior Times. Our first issue was published in 1999 to mark The European Year of the Older Person.

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Doris Day:

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100th issu

The magazin

Tracing your Derry

Genealogist Brian

Unfamiliar Venice

Hidden gems in

this city jewel

It’s never too late

How to

to get fit

Delish

ancestors

Mitchell advises

make it happen from Donega PLUS: Mary Recipes from Donegal l O’Rourke – Table Creative Writin Travel – Garde g - Comp ning - Health - Meeting Place etitions – Motoring – and much more. ..

News Now Call for 24-hour helpline for adult abuse

10 per cent of Irish adults have witnessed adult abuse in the past year and 81 per cent have said that tougher laws would encourage them to take greater action to combat abuse – according to new research commissioned by Safeguarding Ireland. The Red C research found that 12 per cent of those who witnessed abuse of a vulnerable adult in the past year did nothing at all, while 47 per cent discussed it with the person being abused and 40 per cent discussed it with a trusted person. Just 15 per cent sought professional advice – and 3 per cent reported what they witnessed to an authority such as the HSE or Gardaí. Safeguarding Ireland said the research it highlighted the need for greater resourcing of safeguarding vulnerable adults, both in terms of effective legislation and a dedicated 24-hour information and support helpline. Safeguarding Ireland Chairperson Patricia Rickard Clarke said: ‘The fact that 10 per cent of Irish adults reported having witnessed abuse shows that official HSE figures (in excess of 10,000 alleged cases reported annually) are just the tip of the iceberg. ‘Based on our adult population (over 18s) of approximately 3.8m, this would imply an estimate of potentially 380,000 witnessed cases of adult abuse per annum. The message from this research is clear – we need tougher laws

to support people to take action and to call out abuse of vulnerable adult’s’. The Red C research was based on a representative sample of 1,000 adults and also found that younger people, and that those from higher social groupings, were more likely to report that they had witnessed abuse. Safeguarding Ireland brings together 30 national organisations from public services, legal and financial services, the health and social care professions, regulatory authorities and NGOs all working together to protect vulnerable adults. (Members include the HSE, HIQA, An Garda Síochana, An Post, financial organisations and patient, disability and carer NGOs.) Safeguarding Ireland also recommended that to better safeguard their future that all adults should plan ahead and make their future choices known including: • Appoint an Enduring Power of Attorney, which gives financial and legal decision-making responsibility to a trusted person. • Talk with a GP or solicitor about making an Advance Healthcare Directive including future healthcare preferences, or place of care. • Find out about the Think Ahead resource. Think Ahead helps members of the public talk about and record their preferences in the event of emergency, serious illness or death (www.thinkahead.ie). • Find out more about managing finances and identifying fraud at www.fraudsmart.ie

2 Senior Times l July - August 2019 l www.seniortimes.ie

More getting cancer but survival rates increasing— Irish Cancer Society More people are getting cancer in Ireland, and worldwide, today. By next year, 2020, one in two of us will receive a cancer diagnosis in our lifetime. This is why support towards research advancements has never been more important. Already, and with the help of public donations, cancer is no longer a death sentence. Six in 10 patients will survive the disease for at least 5 years. This is up from four in 10 just 20 years ago. There is much more that still can be done however. Cancer research carried out by Irish Cancer Society researchers includes cancer prevention, laboratory research, clinical trials and quality-of-life research for survivors, to help the 40,000 people in this country alone, who are affected each year. While research is extremely important for cancer patients being treated, much of our cancer research will benefit the next generation of cancer patients. Many people of Ireland leave a gift in their will to the Irish Cancer Society as their way of improving cancer treatment and care for generations to come. This will help ensure that patients diagnosed with cancer will have access to the most cutting edge treatments and the best possible care. Gifts in Wills, no matter what size, lead to enormous steps towards a future without cancer. ‘Research is everything. It has made a difference to me and hundreds like me; I wouldn’t have survived without research into new and better treatments. Even if it’s not in my lifetime, there is hope that in the future people won’t have to go through this’. Stephanie Powell, Breast Cancer Survivor. For your free information pack contact Aoife McDarby at 01-2316629 or on amcdarby@irishcancer.ie

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A Government of Ireland initiative, managed by the Department of Communications, Climate Action & Environment. For more information visit: www.dccae.gov.ie/DigitalSkills

News Active Retirement Associations ‘worth over E13m to Irish hotel industry’

Active Retirement Associations are worth over 13m to the Irish hotel industry. according to Active Retirement Ireland, the national representative body for over 500 Active Retirement Associations throughout Ireland. The figure is included in a research report by Active Retirement Ireland – ‘Active Tourism in Ireland’ The report is based on surveys completed by over 3,000 members of Active Retirement Associations nationwide. Key findings include: • The vast majority of respondents (81 per cent) had taken two or more leisure trips in the past 12 months. • The majority of respondents (61 per cent) travelled within Ireland, including Northern Ireland, EU countries (excluding Britain): 51 per cent. Destinations outside the EU: 27 per cent. Britain: 25 per cent. 94 per cent of those surveyed had engaged in leisure travel over the past 12 months. • In Ireland, the most popular destination for Active Retirement members was Dublin (visited by 48 per cent of respondents over the previous 12 months), followed by the West of Ireland (44 per cent), and the South-East (37 per cent). • The majority of trips within Ireland (68 per cent) lasted for two to three days. Commenting on the survey findings, Maureen Kavanagh, CEO of Active Retirement Ireland, said: ‘The results show Active Retirement members make a significant contribution to the Irish tourism industry. They travel to hotels around the country frequently, and they stay for multiple nights at a time. This type of ‘senior tourism’ is hugely important role for hotels and hospitality businesses, in particular during offpeak times of the year.’ Obstacles Ms. Kavanagh said that the active retired face certain obstacles in relation to leisure travel within Ireland. ‘Our research found that the private car was the most common mode of transport among members on their domestic trips,’ she said. ‘Despite the fact that the majority of respondents are entitled to the Free Travel Pass, only 32 per cent travelled by public transport. This may be indicative of the lack of access to public transport for many older people, particularly in rural areas. ‘An overwhelming majority of our members, 74 per cent, believe the practice of hotels charging single supplements – a surcharge for travellers occupying a hotel room on their own – is unfair. Many members travel alone, either because they are widowed or out of personal choice, and they shouldn’t be punished for doing so.’ 4 Senior Times l July - August 2019 l www.seniortimes.ie

Highlights of the NCH 2019/2020 programme Grammy award-winning mezzo-soprano, Joyce DiDonato will make a return visit

Sir Mark Elder will conduct The Halle Orchestra

A musical partnership opens the NCH international Concert Series with pianist Yuja Wang and one of the world’s most distinguished orchestras, Staatskapelle Dresden, with principal guest conductor, Myung-Whun Chung. The prolific and Grammy award-winning mezzo-soprano, Joyce DiDonato, will be accompanied by Il pomo d’oro, led by Maxim Emelyanychev in returning to the NCH following their performance in 2017. Camerata Ireland and Barry Douglas will take up an NCH residency as part of their 20th Anniversary at the NCH culminating in their final concert with international guest soloists, cellist Lynn Harrell and violinist Dmitry Sitkovetsky, as part of the International Concert Series. Maltese tenor Joseph Calleja returns to perform a popular programme of opera arias with Irish soprano Claudia Boyle and the RTÉ National Symphony Orchestra conducted by Proinnsías Ó Duinn. Other artists and ensembles performing in the Series include: celebrated English choral group Tenebrae with Aurora Orchestra; violinist Christian Tetzlaff and pianist Lars Vogt; the Berlin based RIAS Kammerchor with conductor Justin Doyle and pianists Bahar and Ufuk Dördüncü; the English Chamber Orchestra with conductor José Serebrier and cellist Natalie Clein; a welcome return by world renowned pianists Simon Trpčeski and Emanuel Ax in two unique recitals; a return by Bach Collegium Japan with Masaaki Suzuki, conductor and guest soloists, making their NCH International Concert Series debut; the Vienna Chamber Orchestra with British pianist Paul Lewis, as well as the London Mozart Players and Howard Shelley, piano/conductor. Rounding off the International Concert Series, The Hallé make a welcome return with its celebrated Music Director Sir Mark Elder and multi-award winning guest pianist Benjamin Grosvenor.

Make room for AerSpace Aer Lingus have introduced a new premium shorthaul travel service which guarantees a first row window or aisle seat with middle seat unoccupied for added comfort. It will comprise Four AerSpace seats per aircraft on short-haul flights with reserved cabin space overhead. The service starts on September and will be available on a wide selection of UK and European routes AerSpace travellers will also have reserved cabin space directly overhead with complimentary lounge access, Fast Track security, priority boarding and on-board refreshments from the Aer Lingus’ onboard menu.

Irish Hospice conference on dying Forum 2019 is a one day conference organised around the theme of Dying is Everyone’s Business. All of the forum speakers and events centre round what Irish people think is required for a good death and grieving as told to members in the People’s Charter on Death, Dying and Bereavement . The forum brings together experts, professionals and the public to exchange views and partake in deep engagement, insight and empowerment. The conference is on Thursday 24 October at Dublin Castle and is open to the general public and those professionals interested in end-of-life and bereavement care. Further information regarding the forum can be found at: Irish Hospice Foundation, Morrison Chambers, 32, Nassau Street, Dublin 2 T: 01 6793188. www.hospicefoundation.ie

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Blonde, bobbed and as pert as a kitten

Aubrey Malone on the life and far from easy times of one of Hollywood’s last genuine legends It’s probably a cliché to say Doris Day’s death signalled the end of an era but like a lot of clichés it’s perhaps true. Apart from Kim Novak I can’t think of anyone else that’s still among us from Hollywood’s Golden Age. She burst out of the screen like a cannonball and continued bursting until the kitchen sink movement told her it didn’t want her brand of joie-de-vivre anymore. Glum Realism had arrived. In all the tributes that have been paid to her since she died, nobody mentioned that her first husband, trombonist Al Jorden, once asked her to engage in a suicide pact with him. He bought a gun and shoved it into her stomach with the words, ‘Go on, blow your brains out.’ He promised he would then do the same thing. She talked him out of it so he just beat her senseless instead. In fact beating her up was one of the things he did best – and most – in the marriage. After she became pregnant he tried to make her have an abortion. Thankfully she resisted. She was hardly out of her teens at the time. The fact that she managed to carve out a career as all this was going on was a testament to her resilience. Jorden eventually killed himself. By then Day had moved on to another bad marriage, to George Weidler. Whenever I see a Doris Day film that fails to thrill me with its drama I think how much more

gripping a movie about her life would have been than all those so-called ‘sex comedies’ she made with Rock Hudson. As someone said, ‘Day’s sex comedies were characterised by two things: 1) They had no sex and 2) They weren’t very funny. How could anyone take a plot seriously when it involved a gay man chasing a virgin? She grew up believing she was born on the same day as Marlon Brando: April 3rd, 1924. Could two more different stars be imagined in one’s wildest dreams? It was only in later years she learned that she was actually born two years before Brando, though they did share a birthday. Her surname was Kappelhoff. If it was left like this, maybe she’d have been bequeathed more interesting roles. Being called ‘Day’ seemed to give her an upbeat quality to live up to – just like being Julie Andrews perhaps made her feel she had to be effervescent all the time. A rose by any other name might be more chameleon. But you couldn’t dislike Doris Day. She found it very difficult to dislike other people too. Maybe this was why she had so many bad marriages. This Pollyanna was too trusting. She saw the glass half full even when it was leaking fast. She took the shady men life threw at her just like she lapped up the substandard films the

6 Senior Times l July - August 2019 l www.seniortimes.ie

Love Me Or Leave Me, 1959

studios shoehorned her into. When she was called on to act, as in films like Love Me or Leave Me with James Cagney, she proved up to the task. Unfortunately she didn’t seek out such roles often enough. When they weren’t forthcoming she didn’t rebel like a Bette Davis. It wasn’t in her nature. Don MacPherson said of her, ‘She was one of those fixtures in the American home in the early fifties. Outside was the cruel world of the Korean War and the atomic bomb. Inside was an advertisement from Good Housekeeping with Doris in the kitchen – blonde, bobbed and as pert as a kitten.’ Because of her sunny disposition, anything of more significance seemed to be denied to her. Great film roles lay buried under those bland song-and-dance routines at which she revelled. John Simon wrote, ‘The only real talent Miss Day possesses is that of being absolutely sanitary. Her personality is untouched by human emotions, her brow unclouded by human thought, her form unsmudged by the slightest evidence of femininity. Until this spun-sugar zombie melts from our screen there’s little chance of the American film coming of age.’ Such bile wasn’t confined to Simon but he was close to its nadir. Eisenhower’s America offered sirens like Marilyn Monroe for night time and girls-next-door like Day for, well, day. The attraction of Monroe was the fact that you didn’t know what

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Calamity Jane, 1953

itised, the sensual allure of the dead Monroe replaced with Day’s wholesome bubbliness.

With Sinatra in Young At Heart, 1953

As we remember her public face..bobbed, blonde and bubbly.

you were going to get from her. The attraction of Day was the fact that you did. Significantly, she appeared in the remake of Monroe’s last (uncompleted) film, Something’s Got to Give. It was re-titled Move Over, Darling. We were now in the sixties. Movies had become san8 Senior Times l July - August 2019 l www.seniortimes.ie

The critics may have hated her but she was hardly the type of woman to let this bother her. Why should she have? The tills at the box office were ringing and the cinemas were full wherever one of her films was showing. I’m reminded of something Sean Haughey said about his father: ‘Everyone hated him but the public.’ Like a lot of people tagged with being simple, if not simplistic, there was more to Ms Kappelhoff than met the eye. Her husbands may have thought of her as a dumb blonde but that was only because she was too busy to nurture her image. She was sure enough of herself to care less how she came across. She had a natural outdoorsy beauty that was uncomplicated and she didn’t spend too much time embellishing it. ‘Any girl can be glamorous,’ she said, ‘Just stand there and look stupid.’ She was aware she lived in a world of Harvey Weinstein-like misogyny but she could still be a woman in it. When a man did something silly, she said, people said, ‘Isn’t he silly?’ But if a woman did likewise the comment became, ‘Aren’t women silly?’ She didn’t bridle against such lazy generalisations, preferring to just smile at them and move on. What you saw was what you got with her. She hated pretentiousness. She found Kirk Douglas precious on the set of Young Man with a Horn. She said the film was one of the most joyless experiences of her life. He gave most of his attention to Lauren Bacall, the ‘bad girl’ of the piece. Good girls were boring in his eyes. Hudson, on the contrary, she just laughed with.

The shooting times of their films had to be organised around their hysterical outbursts. Oscar Levant famously said he knew her before she was a virgin. It’s this chaste quality we mainly associate with her. But as with other celluloid virgins like, say, Andrews or Deborah Kerr, there’s a lot more to them if we delve beneath the surface. Day became something of a gay icon, for instance, and this wasn’t anything to do with her friendship with Hudson. It was more because of Calamity Jane, the 1953 feature where she played into a totally androgynous identity. After divorcing Jorden, the woman who called herself ‘Miss Chastity Belt’ - without any sign of a tongue in her cheek - married the saxophonist George Weidler. That marriage collapsed after a few years too. He was unfaithful to her, like so many men before and after him. It was more ‘sexy phones’ than saxophones. She ran from Weidler into the arms of the producer-cum-agent Marty Melcher. In time she would become his most lucrative client. They married on April 3rd 1951, her 29th birthday. It was joked that he asked for 15 per cent of her wedding dress and everything else she possessed. ‘It should have been April 1st,’ she remarked afterwards, with black humour. She became his April Fool. He robbed her blind after becoming friendly with her business manager, Jerome Rosenthal. The two of them helped themselves to her money as she slaved at the studio and they sat at home counting her dollars. She came home and cooked the dinner while they cooked the books.

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Melcher died in 1968. It was only after his death she realised how much he’d swindled her, transferring over $20 million of her money to secret accounts in Switzerland that he rapidly depleted, thereby leaving her $500,000 in debt. Things could only have gotten worse if he’d lived. She could be thankful for that small mercy. She needed money fast. She was offered the role of Mrs Robinson in The Graduate but demurred. ‘I can’t see myself putting my tongue down the throat of a man half my age,’ she blasted. The film could have revived her career. Instead it revived that of Anne Bancroft. She received an Oscar nomination for playing the seductive cougar. Day, for her part, went on to appear in a film called With Six You Get Eggroll. Hamlet it wasn’t. It was her last film as it turned out. She also appeared in a TV series called (with remarkable imagination) The Doris Day Show. It ran for five years. She hated every moment of it but it put bread on the table - if not eggrolls. After it ended she took her leave of Hollywood. It was the dignified thing to do. Her time was past. It was all sex and violence now. The Graduate was just the tip of the iceberg. ‘When people reach a certain age,’ Peter Ustinov once pronounced, ‘litigation takes the place of sex.’ So it seemed to be for Day. She now took a legal action against Rosenthal. She was awarded $22 million by the courts but only saw a fraction of this. He kept appealing the judgments against him and crunching the numbers. In the end she only pocketed $3 million. In 1976 she married the restaurateur Barry Comden but that marriage foundered too. She didn’t go for husband Number 5. She once said she wanted to have one husband and four children. Unfortunately it worked out the other way round.

One of her last photographs, with her sister Jackie

Why did she choose so many poor men for husbands? Maybe because they were the only ones out there. ‘Everyone in Hollywood is either divorced or wants to do your hair,’ she complained. Maybe that was a reference to Rock Hudson, gay men often being associated with hairdressing. Come to think of it, he might have been the best husband for her after all. They could have stayed out of the boudoir and ate eggroll until the cows came home. In later life, like Brigitte Bardot, she became a devotee of animal trusts. ‘I never met an animal I didn’t like,’ she proclaimed. It was a pity she couldn’t say the same about the men in her life. Her main occupation became finding homes for stray dogs. She preferred talking about these than about her films or songs. The curse that seemed to be placed on her life even extended into her children. Her son Terry, whom she had by Jorden and who was adopted by Melcher, was a record producer. He had the misfortune to reject the work of a young hopeful called Charles Manson. This was not, repeat not, a man you said no to. Manson vowed revenge on him. It was Terry’s former house he attacked in 1969 in a barrage of vio

10 Senior Times l July - August 2019 l www.seniortimes.ie

lence that saw many people tortured and killed, among them Sharon Tate and her unborn child. He expected to find Terry inside, having had an argument with him in the building not long before. For once Lady Luck smiled on Doris. Her son was saved and Manson incarcerated for life. ‘Wrinkles are hereditary,’ she said once, ‘You get them from your children.’ She was being tongue-in-cheek here. Terry was her protector, her guardian. Most of her wrinkles were probably caused by her husbands. Terry, sadly, died in 2004 of melanoma. Doris trudged on until she almost reached the century mark. How did she last so long considering she had such stress in her life? Because of her natural bonhomie, I would suggest. She had the ability to say to life, ‘No matter what you throw at me I’m not going to let it get to me.’ No Calamity could dent this Jane. ‘Old age isn’t so bad,’ she said elsewhere, ‘when you consider the alternative.’ But I think she’ll be good with that too. Que sera sera.

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Travel

Unfamiliar Venice

Colette Sheridan finds some hidden gems in this jewel of a city Gazing out the kitchen window of our fourth floor Air BnB apartment in Venice during the May Bank Holiday weekend, I saw a roof garden just opposite, created amid terracotta tiles, with herbs, vegetables and flowers growing, far from the dangers of flooding at ground level. (Depressingly, a 50cm rise in sea levels could see the Italian city submerge beneath the waves. ) It was also far from the sounds of this booming tourist city that sees a staggering 25 million tourists visit every year. By 2025, this figure is expected to rise to 38 million. It's no surprise then that when strolling through the alleyways, narrow streets and bright expansive plazas, the sounds are of people chattering, laughing and clacking their heels, with some dragging suitcases on wheels. While the sight and sound of so many tourists, as opposed to locals, may be a turn-off, it is a pleasure to note the absence of car and truck engine noise in this city of 118 islands and 400 bridges, negotiated by boarding a vaporetto (motorboat bus) or a romantic gondola, if you can afford it. Our marble-floored apartment in San Polo was spacious and fairly minimalist with the only frippery being a large vase of yellow and coral coloured tulips. According to legend, the first inhabitants of the city of Venice settled on the cluster of islands called the Rivus Altus (high bank) later known as the Rialto. This ancient area is still the busiest part of San Polo. While every tourist heads for the crowded Rialto markets, selling fish, meat, fruit and vegetables, you should make the effort to rise at dawn and see the delivery

barges arriving and the stallholders setting up for the day. Look out for the statue of a kneeling figure supporting a staircase leading to a small column in the Campo San Giacomo (opposite the church). It is the Hunchback of the Rialto. It marked the end of the gauntlet from Piazza San Marco (St Mark's Square), run by naked miscreants in the Middle Ages - an alternative to prison. Bridge of Sighs Prisoners are associated with the famous Bridge of Sighs. Tourists take photographs of it and lovers kiss in gondolas as they pass under it. But few actually go inside the bridge. But that

is to miss out on the amazing views from it. The bridge was given its name because it provided the route that prisoners walked on the way to their execution at Piazza San Marco. The prisoners could see final glimpses of Venice through tiny gaps in the bridge. This view is reputed to have caused the prisoners to sigh at the beauty of the city, hence the name. Literature buffs will be enchanted by Libreria Acqua Alta, a second-hand bookshop on the waterfront. It is home to hundreds of books, both new and used, as well as a cat. The books are eccentrically placed in old gondolas, canoes, bathtubs and barrels. Encyclopaedias line the walls and are used as steps in a unique staircase. You could while away a couple of hours wading through the selection of Italian and international books. Go out to the garden where you'll spot plants standing alongside a sturdy staircase, made from old colourful books. Another staircase worth checking out - that will leave you dizzy after climbing it - is the Scala Contarini del Bovolo (Bovolo staircase). It's a spiral staircase with wonderful views - and no tourist crowds. It forms part of the Palazzo Contarini del Bolovo and is hidden inside a small court, minutes from Piazza San Marco. At the top of this staircase, in an alley, are breathtaking views over the rooftops of Venice.

Look out for the statue of a kneeling figure supporting a staircase leading to a small column in the Campo San Giacomo (opposite the church). It is the Hunchback of the Rialto.

12 Senior Times l July - August 2019 l www.seniortimes.ie

All that climbing of stairs will leave you in need of refreshments. It's worth checking out establishments that cater to locals rather than tourists. The Bar Do Mori (San Polo 429), is a traditional Venetian haunt that is so informal

Travel The Scala Contarini del Bovolo (Bovolo staircase offers wonderful view of the city. It forms part of the Palazzo Contarini del Bolovo and is hidden inside a small court, minutes from Piazza San Marco.

Literature buffs will be enchanted by Libreria Acqua Alta, a second-hand bookshop on the waterfront. It is home to hundreds of books, both new and used, as well as a cat. The books are eccentrically placed in old gondolas.

The Bar Do Mori (San Polo 429), is a traditional Venetian haunt that is so informal and local that it doesn't even have tables.

and local that it doesn't even have tables. Food and drinks are served at the long wooden bar. It is believed to date back to the fifteenth century and apparently, the lothario Casanova used to drop in there with his friends. The fare includes cicchetti (light food) which ranges from small sandwiches stuffed with cheeses and cured meats to fried artichoke hearts. Wash down the food with the local sweet fizzy red wine.

travelling companions. (The other companion arrived later that afternoon and was disappointed with a restaurant that charged her E25 for a modest salad. This included a E2.50 cover charge for merely walking in the door. She asked for bread twice but it never appeared. An Americano cost her E5.50. We decided the charmless waiter, touting for business at the restaurant door, despised tourists seeing them as a necessary evil.)

We were so taken with the Amarone wine bar (San Polo 1131) serving delicious food, that after a light lunch, we ate there again that evening. (A bottle of Amarone doesn't come cheap here, however, in a premises where all the waiters wear aprons with the words: 'Life is too short to waste it on bad wine.') Lunch was a generous platter of bruschetta for me with an anti pasti board, including juicy aubergine, for one of my

Instead of filling up with dessert at the table, why not take a stroll in search of some good gelato. Look out for stores that carry the Gelato Artigianale sign or Propria Produziona (made in the premises.) Magnificent art While magnificent art can be seen in churches, museums and galleries, you don't expect to be

allowed into a sacristy to view great artworks. But that's the part of the Church of Santa Maria Della Salute where three major Titians are on the ceiling. Instead of craning your neck skywards, a large mirror is provided onto which Cain and Abel, The Slaughter of Isaac and David and Goliath can be reflected. It took Titian thirty-five years to paint the artwork in the sacristy. The art is truly awesome. On a wet Sunday, we headed out to Il Ghetto, the Jewish quarter, one of the most fascinating areas in the city. According to an old guide book on Venice that I picked up, 'ghetto' is a Venetian word and all the forlorn ghettos in the world were named after this little island in Cannaregio. It was once the home of an iron foundry known as 'Geto.' From the 14th century, members of the Jewish

Senior Times l July - August 2019 l www.seniortimes.ie 13

Travel The Church of Santa Maria Della Salute is a popular tourist attraction but did you know that it houses three major Titians?

Il Ghetto, the Jewish quarter, one of the most fascinating areas in the city.

community were allowed to live in Venice for no more than fifteen years. They were permitted to earn their livelihoods through money lending, second hand trading and years later, as doctors and musicians. It wasn't until 1516, that they won the right to live permanently in the city - with stipulations. The island was closed off from sunset until dawn by heavy gates across its access bridges. During these hours, no members of the Jewish community, except doctors visiting patients, could leave the Ghetto. During the day, they could move about freely, but they had to wear a distinguishing badge. They had limited property rights and were subjected to various financial penalties. Despite this, they were better tolerated in Venice than elsewhere in Europe and the Ghetto became the destination goal of Jewish people escaping persecution.

The cloisters at the monastery on San Francesco del Deserto, a peaceful island frequently neglected by visitors.

Five synagogues were built by each wave of immigrants including Sephardic Jews from Spain and Portugal who joined the original Ashkenazim and Levantine Jews from the Ottoman Empire. Overcrowding was a problem so the only way to build was upwards. Some buildings have seven storeys and the synagogues were incorporated into existing houses. In 1797, after the Republic's fall, the Ghetto closed and Jewish Venetians gained citizen Campo San Polo Grande

The Gam Gam restaurant in the Jewish quarter

ship in 1866. In 1943, 200 Jewish Venetians were deported and perished in the concentration camps. Today's population is around 500. Few families still live in the Ghetto but it is the spiritual and cultural home for the community and is visited by thousands of members of the Jewish community from all over the world. We visited the Jewish museum and went on a guided tour of three of the synagogues. Their socio-economic stratification was revealed with the more opulent one built for the wealthier Jews in the area. Afterwards, we had lunch in a local restaurant which was non-kosher. Had we been aware of Venice's only kosher restaurant, we'd have gone there. Called Gam-Gam, it offers a wide selection of Jewish and Israeli dishes - an alternative to Italian fare. Located at the edge of the Jewish Ghetto, it serves hummus, falafel, roasted aubergine and schnitzel, among other dishes.

14 Senior Times l July - August 2019 l www.seniortimes.ie

A peaceful island frequently neglected by visitors is San Francesco del Deserto which houses a monastery. With 4,000 cypress trees, the monastery gardens are worth strolling through and the medieval cloisters merit a visit. St Francis arrived on the island in 1220. Legend has it that he planted his stick into the ground and it grew into a pine tree. The birds then flocked in to sing to him. Whatever about the veracity of this story, it's a rather sweet one just like our memories of La Serenissima. Information Italian State Tourist Board, 1 Princes Street, Westminster, London W1B 2AY. Tel: 0044 2017 74071254. Email: Stefania.gatta@enit.it www.enit.it Aer Lingus and Ryanair fly from Dublin to Venice

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Childcare

A child-caring contract for grandparents? Are you a disgruntled grandparent and believe you are being taken for granted? Perhaps its time you drew up a contract with your son or daughter to look after their children. Lorna Hogg reports. ‘You’re at your Granny’s..’ The old Irish saying has never been more relevant, as increasing numbers of grandparents help overstretched and overworked parents with childcare. Many familes, including Irish ones, see ‘grannycare’ as an ideal solution, with utterly trustworthy and inbuilt loving care from familiar, responsible adults. Yet there can also be problems – over clashes in values, standards of behaviour and lifestyle, as well as the amount of time involved, or even potential interference. Should to-day’s grandparents expect payment for care – or feel insulted by it? Is there a way to encourage the invaluable bonus that intergenerational relationships can offer? Or are grandparents out of practice as childminders, and not modern enough to be ideal role-models to-day? Granny care.. Mairead longed for her son and his partner to produce grandchildren..’I looked forward to doing all the granny things – and vowed to myself not to interfere. But increasingly, I’ve become shocked by the children’s behaviour. I’m used to them messing up my home, and breaking things. However, when I took them round to see a cousin, they went upstairs and opened drawers and cupboards and took her belongings out.

‘In the park, they pick flowers, and kick and break trees and shrubs. I have to say it – they can behave like hooligans. When I told their mother, she laughed and talked about ‘free play’ and said she liked their spirit.. I feel it’s a criticism of my style of bringing up my son. But I see the looks they get from people – and not all children behave like that. But I feel it’s not my place to say anything..’ Eimear is grateful to her mother for looking after the children, sometimes at very short notice. So, she cannot bring herself to comment how concerned she is that her children’s dietary habits are being broken.’I’m really trying to cut down on sugar - bars, drinks, and so on. I see their friends – straight into cafes after school, and they’re high as kites in half an hour. But my mother bakes, and loves to give them treats. She says ‘they’re only young once, let them enjoy themselves’ and so on. My father in law also takes them into McDonalds regularly, and they just say ‘oh, we’ll go with granny’ when I try to control diets..’ Mary has long looked forward to grandchildren, but now finds that ‘I am really tired after looking after them. I suppose I had more energy with my own... I was really rather relieved when my daughter suddenly cancelled a visit at the last minute. The thing is – I hate saying no, but I’m starting to miss my own life as well. I had to

16 Senior Times l July - August 2019 l www.seniortimes.ie

cancel a reunion with old school friends recently. I feel guilty about this, as some people say – ‘sure, it fills up your day – what else would you be doing anyway?’. It can also be expensive. I didn’t eat out as much as a child. Fizzy drinks, lattes, sweets – they’re expensive now – especially when they invite their friends along. Maybe I’m just out of touch..’ A ‘granny contract’ One solution can be to draw up a ‘granny contract’ so that parents, grandparents and grandchildren know what to expect. These can range from behaviour through to safety concerns, food, bedtimes, TV viewing and internet/ social media. There are several samples online, and most cover the following issues: Set boundaries about arrangements for care: e.g. short notice for care, and how much care time suits both of you. What about bills e.g food and entertainment – who will pay? Are you happy to ‘fill in’ with care – or do you want to be paid/have expenses covered for extra childcare – and what counts as extra? Will all bills be picked up – what will be reimbursed? Draw up a timetable: Who will collect and return children? When should they eat? Snacks?

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Take your Health to Heart! 80% of heart disease is preventable, simply by making a few dietary and lifestyle changes! If your cholesterol is high, there are many positive dietary and lifestyle changes you can make to help reduce cholesterol. Taking plant sterols daily should be your first step in lowering LDL “bad” cholesterol. Plant sterols are naturally occurring substances found in plants. They work by blocking the absorption of cholesterol in the small intestine, which contributes to a significant decrease in the blood LDL “bad” cholesterol level. New research confirms that 1.6 g (2 tablets) Zerochol® plant sterols can lower cholesterol by 17% in 3 months, without any side effects.

Alongside taking plant sterols, you should consider increasing your intake of omega-3 food (oily fish such as mackerel, sardines, anchovies, salmon) or supplementation with omega-3 fish oil. Thousands of clinical studies have shown that increased intake of omega-3 fats EPA and DHA enhance overall cardiovascular function. Omega-3 fats EPA and DHA have been shown to reduce triglycerides (a major risk factor for heart disease), help reduce cholesterol, reduce blood pressure if high and help to maintain heart function, overall improving heart health considerably. More information: zerochol.ie and eskimo3.ie

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Childcare machinery and controls in the home. Does the grandparent know how to use kitchen equip ment, how to use any apps to turn items on and off? What about locks on doors and storage of products dangerous to children? Who is to be called in an emergency? Is the number always easily readable, and constantly on display? What about breakdown care in a car? For love and money?; In the UK, a recent poll for Age UK found that 40 per cent of British grandparents over the age of 50 have provided regular childcare for grandchildren.

How long do they play, and visit the park? What about homework, and playdates? How much TV viewing is allowed, and when?

cation - about hours, emotional manipulation, tiredness, and even feeling used at short notice calls, can help with solutions.

Talk it through: We all know that it’s much better to talk about standards, expectations and areas of potential conflict beforehand rather than during a row. Be honest about your availability to look after the children –your time, hours of availability etc. Work out how much notice you need – do you want to be constantly on call, or have a framework? Vagueness can lead to genuine misunderstandings. Some grandparents, especially those who spend long hours with grandchildren, can start to step into the parental role, producing confusion for children. However, good regular commmuni

‘It was different in my day’: It was, and accepting different views, perspectives and views on behaviour, diet, TV viewing, bedtimes and manners can be very difficult for grandparents. The views and values of parents must come first – even if grandparents feel mistakes are being made, and they could handle situations better. Safety: This can be one of the most sensitive and important of areas – from driving ability to eyesight, speed of movement and reaction, physical strength and technical skills to use

Also in the UK, non- working grannies under state pension age can top up their pension points, when regularly caring for grandchildren under the age of 12. If this allows a parent to return to work, the latter may be able to pass on unused National Insurance tax credit points to the grandparent. This would help to build up a grandparent’s credits towards a full state pension. In Ireland last year, a suggestion was put forward by the Independent Alliance that there should be a 'Granny Grant’ of E1000, paid to a grandparents who cares for a child for over 10 hours per week, thus allowing a parent to return to the workforce. The scheme would cost around E70 million per annum. www.thisismoney.co.uk https://aarp/relationships/grandparents/ info

100 up for Senior Times! It’s our Birthday! Senior Times magazine is celebrating its 100th edition in the July-August 2019 issue. We would like to thank all our readers and advertisers over the past 20 years which has enabled us to produce, dare we say it, a super magazine! Here’s to the next 20 years! Given the occasion we thought it might be fun to see who else is marking their 100th anniversary this year. Here’s a selection - in no particular order! 1919 / Composer Irving Berlin agreed to write one act of the 1919 Follies. The song, A Pretty Girl Is Like A Melody was the hit of the show. It later featured in the 1936 MGM musical, The Great Ziegfeld. The song was the centrepiece musical number performed on a huge set comprising a spiral staircase, which has been compared to a wedding cake or ‘giant meringue’. 1919 / Communist Party of the United States of America (CPUSA) is founded. It has a long and complex history that ties closely with the American labor movement. It was influential in American politics in the first half of the 20th century becoming known for opposing racism and racial segregation. Feb 26, 1919 / The Grand Canyon celebrates

100 years since its designation as a national park in the US. That year it welcomed 44,000 visitors. Now it expects about six million people a year. The park encompasses 277 miles of the Colorado River and adjacent uplands. July 04, 1919 / Jack Dempsey beat champion Jess Willard (who retired in the third round) in Toledo, Ohio to win the world heavyweight championship. It was by all accounts a brutal encounter. Willard rose and was knocked down seven times in the first round and suffered tremendous damage at the hands of the challenger Dempsey.

Nov 19, 1919 / Sylvia Beach opened her now famous bookshop Shakespeare and Company in Paris. The shop stocked many publications which had been banned elsewhere. Beach published James Joyce’s Ulysses in 1922 which was also banned. Joyce nicknamed the shop "Stratford-on-Odéon" and he was known to use it as his office.

July 20, 1919 / Edmund Hillary was born in Auckland, New Zealand and became interested in climbing when he was 16 after a trip to Mount Ruapehu. On 29 May 1953, Hillary and Nepalese Sherpa mountaineer Tenzing Norgay became the first climbers confirmed to have reached the summit of Mount Everest.

Dec 3, 1919 / Artist Auguste Renoir died in Cagnes-sur-Mer, close to the Mediterranean coast at the age of 88. He was a leading painter in the development of the Impressionist style. After a series of rejections by the Paris Salon juries, he joined forces with other artists including Monet, Sisley, Pissarro, to mount the first Impressionist exhibition in April 1874, in which Renoir displayed six paintings. His house is now the excellent Renoir Museum, containing family furniture, 14 paintings and 30 sculptures, surrounded by olive trees and with panoramic views down to Cap d’Antibes.

Aug 25, 1919 / The first scheduled airplane passenger service took place when the first commercial flight flew from London to Paris. The plane was a converted bomber, a leftover from World War I. The world had got a little smaller.

18 Senior Times l July - August 2019 l www.seniortimes.ie

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Looking back in time

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In WORLD news the third and final reactor at the Chernobyl nuclear power plant in Ukraine is shut down, meaning the whole plant is now closed. The first resident astronauts enter the International Space Station. Nine people die and a further 26 are injured during Pearl Jam's set at Denmark's Roskilde music festival. Manchester doctor Harold Shipman is found guilty of murdering 15 of his patients. In IRELAND Sunday's were given meaning with the Government abolishing the so-called 'holy hour' law which had made pubs close between the hours of 2pm and 4pm on Sunday afternoons. The infamous Maze prison in Co Down is closed. The Provisional IRA begins weapon decommissioning. Devolution in Northern Ireland is suspended before being returned. Journalist and broadcaster Jonathan Philbin-Bowman dies. Other notable Irish deaths this year included actor Tony Doyle, composer Brian Boydell, Cork hurler Paddy Barry, Fine Gael TD John Boland, and tenor Frank Patterson. In SPORT Vijay Singh wins golf's Masters at Augusta. The sport's other three majors - the US Open, the British Open, and the US PGA Championship - are all won by Tiger Woods. In horse racing, Papillon wins the Grand National, while Looks Like Trouble wins the Cheltenham Gold Cup. France win their second soccer European Championship, beating Italy in the final in Rotterdam, meaning they hold both the European Championship and the World Cup at the same time - only the 20 Senior Times l July - August 2019 l www.seniortimes.ie

second team (behind (West) Germany to do so). Manchester United win England's Premier League - the club's fifth title in seven seasons - finishing ten points ahead of second placed Arsenal. Arsenal also finish runners-up in the UEFA Cup, beaten on penalties by Turkish club Galatasaray. Real Madrid beat Valencia in the Champions League final and Chelsea win the FA Cup, by beating Aston Villa. In the League of Ireland Shelbourne win the Premier League and FAI Cup double. In GAA, Kerry and Kilkenny are crowned All-Ireland football and hurling champions respectively. In tennis, Pete Sampras wins his fourth consecutive men's title at Wimbledon; while Venus Williams wins her first of five Wimbledon women's titles. Williams also wins the US Open. The Australian Open titles were won by Andre Agassi and Lindsay Davenport. In FILM, Steven Soderbergh's Traffic won the best film Oscar, but Tom Cruise in Mission Impossible 2, Tom Hanks in Cast Away and Russell Crowe in Gladiator were the most watched. Meanwhile, in TELEVISION, this year saw the Dora the Explorer's debut. An uncertain year for MUSIC sees little more exciting than Britney Spears' Oops...I Did It Again and Motorhead's We are Motorhead released, while Metallica sues free music streaming service Napster. Answer on page 94

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History The Tranquil Gardens at Nano Nagle Place

The lady with the lantern Colette Sheridan visits Nano Nagle Place, Cork which has become one of the city’s most popular visitor attractions What has become one of Cork city's big visitor attractions is Nano Nagle Place, an oasis of calm and an impressive amenity in the inner city on Douglas Street. The centre, which has welcomed 75,000 people since opening in the summer of 2017, is a fitting legacy for the ‘Lady with the Lantern.’ Nano was thus known because she negotiated the dark streets and warrens of the city at night, tending to the poor and destitute. But it is as an educator of impoverished children that this founder of the Presentation Sisters (known to generations of Corkonians as ‘South Pres’) in 1775 is best known. Voted Irish Woman of the Millennium in 2000 in recognition of her importance as a pioneer of female education in Ireland, and declared venerable by Pope Francis in 2013, Nano would undoubtedly be proud of the heritage centre and gardens opened in her memory. The E10.5m Nano Nagle Place includes a state-of-the-art heritage centre with video installations; a shop selling Nano Nagle-branded notebooks as well as an interesting book on the educator entitled One Pace Beyond: The Life of Nano Nagle; a convent; five loft apartments and offices including one that houses the order’s archive. There is also a cemetery where Nano is buried, close to an attractive turquoise water feature. There is a Victorian High Gothic Revival Chapel. A wild garden grows sunflowers and poppies in the summer and there are ‘contemplative gardens.’ A cafe, the Good Day Deli, is one of the Sunday Times' best 100 restaurants in Ireland. University College Cork and Cork Institute of Technology's joint school of architecture has been built on the surrounding land. Nano Nagle Place occupies 3.75 acres, comprising a triangle that takes in Douglas Street, Nicholas Street and Evergreen Street. There are just three nuns living in Nano Nagle Place, including Sr Emma Rooney, originally from the Presentation Sisters’ Newfoundland 22 Senior Times l July - August 2019 l www.seniortimes.ie

Nano Nagle was voted Irish Woman of the Millenium in 2000

Province. She is of Irish ancestry and has an interest in eco-spirituality which she teaches at the centre. The investment in this wonderful addition to Cork city comes from the Presentation Order, located in twenty-four countries and operating as a self-financing registered charity. Nano Nagle Place is on a firm financial footing, says CEO Shane Clarke, a Dubliner with a background in urban design who relocated from London to take up what he says is an exciting job. The income comes from the school of architecture rental fees as well as from the heritage centre, rental from the cafe and the shop. Some of the apartments are available for short term rentals.

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History At Nano Nagle Place, immigrants are given free English classes and are advised about how to live in Cork. The centre’s Lantern Community Project provides a welcome for people, regardless of their backgrounds, where they can give voice to their hopes and express their creativity to work towards a better world. Immigrant mothers of young children are encouraged to attend the community project. The centre is steeped in history - with a distinctly modern twist. Through touch screens in the heritage centre, the story of Cork city in the eighteenth century is relayed. It was over-crowded and many of the citizens lived in dire poverty. One particularly narrow lane, just ten feet wide, was named Broad Lane, indicating mordant humour despite the misery. Nano could have lived a dazzling life. Born into a wealthy family in Ballygriffin, Co Cork in 1718, she was baptised Honora but adopted the affectionate name used by her family. Educated mainly in France, she had, for a while, a hectic social life in Paris. It involved ‘balls, parties and theatre outings,’ according to one report. There were various moments in Nano’s life when she was assailed by the sights and smells of poverty that made her want to help the poor. Apparently, after one of the parties she attended in the French capital, she noticed a group of wretched looking people, trying to keep warm in a church doorway. Another Damascene moment came when a bolt of silk that Nano bought in Paris went missing. Nano’s sister, Ann, admitted that she had sold it so that she could buy medicine for a poor family. That resonated with Nano who, forsaking her glamorous life, decided to work with the less privileged. Due to the Penal Laws which forbade Catholic education, Nano’s teaching work had to be carried out in secret. She started out in a mud cabin on Cove Street, now Douglas Street. It was fronted by a bread shop to conceal its real purpose. In all, she opened seven schools in Cork, two of which were for boys. Her work was bankrolled by her wealthy solicitor uncle, Joseph Nagle. He converted to Protestantism so that he could hold property on behalf of the Catholic members of his family. However, by 1778, Nano, despite being astute with money, was in debt, having spent most of her fortune on maintaining her schools. She had to elicit support from the rich merchants of Cork. Some were happy to donate. Others looked down on Nano and her illegal work. She was insulted on the street on occasion and her pupils were dismissed as ‘beggars’ brats.’ But there are women – some prominent – forever in Nano’s debt. On one of the walls of the heritage centre in Nano Nagle Place, there is a quotation from feminist, Germaine Greer which reads as follows: “I think one of the reasons why I was never properly domesticated is because I was actually socialised by a gang of mad women in flapping black habits. I am more like them than I am like my mother. I owe them more in a way because they love me more and they worked harder on me than my mother. They really loved us. I realise that now, although I didn’t realise it at the time..” (Germaine Greer is a past pupil of Sea Presentation College, Victoria, Australia. The quotation is from a 2003 book, Convent Girls published by Virago.) According to M Raphael Consedine, author of One Pace Beyond: The Life of Nano Nagle, contemporary documents about Nano,the educator, are few. But what exists ‘reveal a fascinating woman - daring, yet cautious; forthright to the point of bluntness, yet sensitive and wonderfully gentle, a visionary whose desires reached to the ends of the earth, yet a practical woman intensely alive to the demands of the 'here and now' in which she found herself.’ A local priest at the time, Fr Francis Moylan, described Nano as ‘a living assertion of the Catholic right to teach Catholic children the Catholic way of life, and because she is that, these cabin schools of hers are only paving the way for something more permanent.’ 24 Senior Times l July - August 2019 l www.seniortimes.ie

Nano Nagle’s grave

Nano's work is documented in the icon room on the site. A large piece of stained glass by Desmond Hynes tells the story in brightly coloured panels, vividly lit from the back. There is a representation of a teacher and pupils, a male figure portraying Nano's Uncle Joseph, the alms house that Nano set up and the Virgin Mary in whom Nano had great faith. Nano, who also brought the Ursuline Convent to Cork, was an indefatigable worker. After her death from TB in 1784, the sisters of her order kept many of her possessions which became objects of devotion. They include her cotton bonnet. It has been restored and is treasured along with other objects belonging to this pioneering woman. She certainly made her mark, not just in Cork but around the world. Nano Nagle Place is open from 10am until 5pm from Tuesday to Sunday. Tel: 021 4193680

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Saorview Connect - a premium TV service with no contract and no monthly bills Saorview Connect – the advanced, connected, free-to-air television service – has just released its new recording function in response to consumer demand. Saorview Connect includes benefits such as catch-up TV and Spotlight, which gives you all the best daily programme recommendations. Saorview Connect is now complete with top of the range functionality allowing customers to pause and record live TV plus they can series link their favourite programmes on Saorview. Speaking about the new recording features, Richard Waghorn, Director of Transformation and Technology at RTÉ, said: “The Saorview team and I are delighted to announce the availability of the recording features on Saorview Connect. It was developed in response to consumer feedback, and this is the most advanced Saorview box yet, delivering a premium quality TV experience for Irish consumers.” With the new recording feature on Saorview Connect, users can record one TV channel while watching another and use the smart library to organise and manage recordings. This service also allows you to: · Record all your favourite shows

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What do I need to get the service? A Saorview aerial and WIFI or wired broadband to access features such as On Demand Players, and a satellite dish to receive over 60 additional channels that are not part of Saorview. You will also need an external USB 3.0 drive for recordings. How do I get Saorview Connect? The Saorview Connect box can be purchased in electrical stores around the country for about E159. If you have broadband, an aerial and satellite dish in place it’s relatively easy to set up yourself. If you only record and delete shows a few times a week expect to pay E20 for a small USB 3.0 memory stick or up to c60 for 500gb of memory which gives you up to 100 hours storage (recommended). For installation, talk to your local TV retailer or call Shomar Ltd Dublin, distributors of the Powerpoint set-top box on 01 4092203. Shomar work with Retailers and Installers around the country who can arrange for the supply and installation of the box to your home or put you in touch with your local supplier. You can also visit the Saorview website for more information. www.saorview.ie

The all-new, all amazing Saorview Connect – still with no contract and no monthly bills. · 7 Day TV Guide on Saorview with a Roll-Back Guide to allow you watch a show you’ve missed. 26 Senior Times July - August 2019 l www.seniortimes.ie

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Mary’s Musings

In her latest observations Mary O’Rourke discusses the Conservative Party fiasco and her loathing of Boris Johnston, recommended summer books and the success of The University of Limerick

Enda and I and our two sons, used to go to Clifden together when the children were all young, and they all had great times there playing on the beaches and swimming.

Hello to all the readers of this lovely magazine, Senior Times.

there, with no executive power and, one would assume, no will to do anything.

It seems so long since we spoke together, and yet I looked back on my last copy and I found events haven’t really moved on that much. I wrote then about Brexit and about Theresa May as Prime Minister. Since then, of course, we know she tried three times to get her withdrawal agreement voted upon in the House of Commons, and each time she was turned down. She was of the opinion to go again, but in the end she decided to retire.

I really feel sorry for her. I distinctly have the opinion that she was a decent woman at heart, but somehow she didn’t have the best of advisors, or perhaps she didn’t feel empowered to be able to trust them so that they could together, she and they, see a way forward. Be that as it may, the Prime Minister is there in a temporary capacity while the Conservative Party continues its search for a replacement head of the party, who in turn will become the new Prime Minister.

Now I don’t know how many of the readers would have seen her on TV outside Number 10 Downing Street. No matter what your opinion was of her, or what you thought of how she ran the UK, she really cut a very sad and sorry figure as she gave her lines of resignation. Now, with the Conservative Party on the search for a new leader, Theresa May is still in Number 10 and she is in a position of interim, or temporary, Prime Minister. So in a way, she is just swinging

So that brings me to the adventures which are going on as I write this column, of the TV debates, one on Channel 4 and the other on BBC1, between the main contenders for the Conservative leadership. There is no doubt that Boris Johnson is the way-out winner within the ranks of the MPs, and two people will then go out to the wider Conservative membership throughout the whole of the UK.

28 Senior Times l July - August 2019 l www.seniortimes.ie

By the time you read the July/August edition of Senior Times, the Conservative membership throughout the country will be voting, and it is my belief that the result of that will be Boris Johnson. Now I have been on various programmes in which everyone bewails the fact, but all the commentary, both written and on radio and TV, says the same thing – Boris Johnson, who says he is leaving the EU on October 31 no matter what happens, with no deal or a very hard deal. We in Ireland know this is the worst outcome we could hope to have. And yet I think the only thing that both Leo Varadkar and Simon Coveney can do is live with what they have, and it is my belief also that perhaps Boris will not turn out to be the ogre that he portrays himself to be. I very much doubt that, and yet when I hear his faux posh accent and the blatant untruths he hurls about as he debates, I say to myself, “Oh my goodness, what are we letting ourselves in for, with regard to all of Ireland?” So again, the same old story: Theresa May is

Mary’s Musings gone, with my personal sympathy, because I feel in her heart she tried to do the best for Ireland. But she is gone, Boris will come in, and we will have to cope with that. It appears that by July 22, the Conservative associations throughout the UK will have made their decision, and then we will have to live with that. October 31 is always associated with Hallowe’en and things of the underworld; when that date comes, we will know exactly what Ireland will be facing. But on to more pleasant things. Reading for one – I have just read a recent book called From a Low and Quiet Sea by Donal Ryan. Now Donal Ryan, as you know, is an Irish writer and perhaps some of the readers will have read The Spinning Heart which was an earlier one of his, or his short story collection A Slanting of the Sun. He is a former civil servant who now lectures in creative writing at the University of Limerick, and lives outside Limerick with his wife and two young children. I would strongly urge you, through the library or purchase or loan or whatever, to try to get the book From a Low and Quiet Sea. I read it and exulted in it,

and then I read it again and thought a lot about it and meditated on the characters. Donal Ryan has a wonderful way of writing: spare, elegant but oh so telling in his characterisation and his plot-making as the book moves along. I cannot praise it enough, and I hope some of you will take up my advice on this matter!

Rosita Boland. I know Rosita and have met with her in my previous life; she is a very esteemed journalist and author and I look forward to reading her acclaimed book Elsewhere.

Kevin Barry – I have been recommended his latest book Night Boat to Tangier.

I have two other books which have been recommended to me and which I have lined up for reading. One is called Night Boat to Tangier by Kevin Barry, and the other is Elsewhere by Rosita Boland. Now I know Rosita and have met with her in my previous life; she is a very esteemed journalist and author and I look forward to reading her acclaimed book. I know of Kevin Barry

because of course I’ve read other books he has written, but this particular one is, I believe, really worth reading. So, if the summer continues on its ragged way and we don’t have any prolonged spell of good weather, I will be immersing myself in my books again. But more about all those anon. As I write, the young people have finished their Junior and Leaving Certificate examinations, and of course will be awaiting the results of same come early August. Recently I was down in Limerick at the 30th anniversary of the enactment of the University of Limerick Act, which set up the university there. It was a nice celebration, and I was glad to have been the

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Exclusive 5-Day Escorted Trip Gardens & Chateaux of the Loire Valley with Celebrity Gardener, Peter Dowdall 11 - 15 September 2019 Peter Dowdall is the Gardening Columnist with the Irish Examiner newspaper and has been a regular on Irish TV since 1999. He currently presents the Gardening elements of the Today Show on RTE, has presented several gardening series on RTE and was the gardening presenter on TV3 for five years. “ I’m really looking forward to the trip of the Chateaux Gardens of the Loire. Much thought has gone into this itinerary and we will visit some of the finest gardens in the region, each one offering something that bit different. “

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30 Senior Times l May - June 2019 l www.seniortimes.ie

Trip Details: Day 1: Wednesday, 11 September 2019 - Paris Depart Dublin - Arrive in Paris. Welcome to the City of Lights. Upon arriving at Charles de Gaulle Airport your Travel Director and Driver will await you with a group arrival transfer. Spend your day strolling past iconic landmarks in search of hidden treasures, before joining your fellow travellers and Travel Director for a Welcome Reception and an orientation drive through the city. Hotel: Novotel Tour Eiffel or similar Meal(s): Welcome Reception Day 2: Thursday, 12 September 2019 - Tours Depart Paris and venture to the Loire Valley where you’ll visit Chateau of Beauregar, with its unique gallery of portraits and 315 years of history. This jewel of French heritage, with the landscaped park of 40 ha and classified Remarkable Garden, offers an unforgettable trip full of surprises. After enjoying a packed lunch, head to Chaumont-sur-Loire to explore the Chateau de Chaumont and the International Festival of Gardens held here each year. Hotel: Mercure Tours Nord or similar Meal(s): Buffet Breakfast, Packed Lunch Day 3 – Friday, 13 September 2019 - Tours Château de Villandry and Loire Valley Wine Tasting Excursion With a local expert. Head to Château de Villandry, the Jewel of the Loire, to visit the gardens. Ensure you don’t miss the water, ornamental and kitchen gardens. Enjoy an introduction to their wine at Leonardo da Vinci’s residence in Amboise. You’ll taste Chenin Blanc, which is the “royal grape” according to the wine expert in Leonardo’s Caves. Meal(s): Buffet Breakfast Day 4 – Saturday, 14 September 2019 - Nates Tours – Nantes Embark on a beautiful journey to Maulevrier where we visit Parc Oriental, the largest Japanese garden in France. Immerse yourself in the world of roses in the pretty Les Chemins de la rose garden, at Douéla-Fontaine. There are more than 1,350 varieties of the ‘queen of flowers’ planted here. Join your Travel Director and newfound friends for a memorable Farewell Dinner. Hotel: Mercure Nantes Centre or similar Meal(s): Buffet Breakfast, Farewell Dinner Day 5 – Sunday, 15 September 2019 - Nates Depart Nantes. After breakfast a group departure transfer is included to Nantes Airport. Meal(s): Buffet Breakfast

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Mary’s Musings

The University of Limerick has been a huge success, and the result of is the wonderful range of courses at all levels, and in all disciplines, which they have on offer in the college.

it, but it has retained that sense of being apart from the real world, even though it has all of the modern things one would need. Most of all it has the wonderful Atlantic Ocean.

Minister who brought that legislation through the Dáil and the Seanad 30 years ago. Dr Ed Walsh and his wife Stephanie were present at the celebration. Ed Walsh was the founding president of the University of Limerick, and he and I planned and worked together with the officials in the Department of Education, and of course the Attorney General, in getting that legislation put together, and then it was up to me to bring it through the Dáil and Seanad. The University of Limerick has been a huge success, and the result of all of it is the wonderful range of courses at all levels, and in all disciplines, which they have on offer in the college, the wonderful research which is undertaken there, and above all, the thousands and thousands of young women and men who have left that college with their mortarboards set straight, imbued with the finest of education and ideas as they face the world. I hope UL continues on its very high level path and I wish it every luck. There is much talk at the moment of changes in the curriculum for Leaving Certificate, following on from changes already made in the Junior Certificate. In 1988 I set up the NCCA, which is the guiding body for curriculum reform, and it has, in the main, performed very well since. However, I would advocate great caution in changing the curriculum at Leaving Cert. In fact, I would put forward the Horace motto Festina lente – hasten slowly. The ‘dumbing down’ is fine at Junior Cert level when minds are unformed, but not going on towards the Leaving Cert, which has achieved recognition as being a sound examination and of course entirely fair in that it is anonymously corrected with an appeal clause at the end of it. So now we’re in the month of July and thoughts are turning to holidays. I’m sure many of the readers will have already planned theirs, or taken up some of the gorgeous ads I see in the pages of Senior Times. Last year, my niece Anita Lenihan and I went for a week to Clifden, à la recherche du temps perdu. Her Dad and Mam and all the Lenihan brood, with Enda and I

Clifden

Ed Walsh was the founding president of the University of Limerick, and he and I planned and worked together with the officials in the Department of Education

and our two sons, used to go to Clifden together when the children were all young, and they all had great times there playing on the beaches and swimming and having a wonderful time as young people. We went for a week last year together and found it terrific. This year, we are planning a visit to Valentia Island for a week. We have already made the arrangements; we are taking a lovely house for the week that overlooks the water and we will have a very good time. Like that, after Enda and I and the children had outgrown, so to speak, Clifden, we moved on to Valentia Island. This was when the children were older and were no longer holidaying with us, but Enda and I had a wonderful two or three years in a row on Valentia Island in the village of Portmagee. I love that part of Kerry, and the island itself is a wonderful terrain. Of course it is no longer an island, there is a bridge over to

32 Senior Times l July - August 2019 l www.seniortimes.ie

It is great for me that Anita and I get on so well together. I find her a wonderful friend and a wonderful companion. She was the youngest child of Brian and Ann, and always a favourite of mine. I hope you all have a nice break, even if it is only for a few days. It is truly great to get away from your natural habitat, see new places, meet new people, taste new foods, and generally feel better after experiencing all of those. I no longer have any desire to go abroad, as I fulfil the old adage of ‘been there, done that’ over all of the years. And so I am very happy to get a nice place in Ireland and to bivouac there for a while. Hi ho for August, and the wild scenery of County Kerry! So when we talk again the next time, we will all, I hope, have had a little holiday and be in good form and looking forward to the autumn and, dare I say it, even looking forward to the winter ahead. That’s my lot for this edition. Until we talk again, go safely.

Slán tamall, Mary O’Rourke

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Maretta Dillon previews what’s on in the arts around the country in the next few months

Culture Moonfish Theatre follow their acclaimed adaptation of Joseph O'Connor's novel Star of the Sea with a unique re-imagining of O'Connor's sequel, Redemption Falls.

Child’s play at The Crawford Children have long been an important subject matter in art. Seen, not Heard is a new exhibition at the Crawford Art Gallery, Cork that includes a selection of artworks depicting children and childhood. Based on the three core themes of Power, Perception and Play, the exhibition will examine how representation of childhood has evolved historically in Ireland, featuring commissioned aristocratic portraits, depictions of children in various socio-economic settings and works capturing glimpsed moments of everyday life. The show asks the viewer to reflect on their own ideas of childhood and on the place of children in society today. (crawfordartgallery.ie). Museum of Contemporary Photography of Ireland is a temporary pop up event as part of Photo Ireland festival during July at The Printworks in Dublin Castle. The museum will launch on July 4 with three different exhibitions including New Irish Work – the latest projects from 10 Irish photographers. Among them is

Sheila Pomeroy’s Feral

34 Senior Times l July - August 2019 l www.seniortimes.ie

Why not come and join us, at Dublin City University, the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first designated Age-Friendly University - leading a global network of Age Friendly Universities. Over 50 Modules in which you can participate without the need to take an exam or assessment. Starting September- December and January to May, these eight-week modules take place weekly across our campuses in Drumcondra and Glasnevin. Our Love of Lifelong Learning Programme starts mid-October with modules in Life Writing, Genealogy, Digital Photography, Psychology, and FREE Computer Classes. Our unique Lifelong Learning Association will keep you connected, informed and offers specialist workshops and social opportunities.

Join us for our Taste of DCU on Friday, September 13th next to experience a day in the university and all it has to offer. Register now at: tasteofdcu2019.eventbrite.ie or call Helen Curran on: 01 700 6490 For further information, or to be added to our contact list, please contact: Christine Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Kelly, Age-Friendly Coordinator T: 01 700 8933 E: christine.okelly@dcu.ie

Culture

Roisin White’s Lay Her Down Upon Her Back in the Photo Island Festival

Antonio Banderas and Asier Etxeandia in Pain and Glory

Roisin White’s photos – Lay Her Down Upon Her Back. This work examines the legacy of the 1860s The Rest Cure when women deemed to be of nervous disposition or hysterical were advised prolonged bed rest. Separately there is a retrospective of the work of Helena Hooker O’Malley, an American who had a decades long love affair with Ireland from the 1930s onwards ignited by her tumultuous relationship with revolutionary and author, Ernie O’Malley. See photoireland.org for more information. 1865 - the end of the US Civil War. Eliza Duane Mooney, daughter of an Irish emigrant, walks across America in search of her brother Jeddo, a child soldier in the Confederate army. Moonfish Theatre follow their acclaimed adaptation of Joseph O'Connor's novel Star of the Sea with a unique re-imagining of O'Connor's sequel, Redemption Falls. Presented as a theatre-gig, this weaves traditional folk song and music, visceral imagery and evocative storytelling in a breath-taking and intense theatrical experience. (moonfishtheatre.com) There is a wealth of festivals happening throughout Ireland this summer including heavy hitters, Galway International Arts Festival and Kilkenny Arts Festival. In between is Cairde Sligo Arts Festival with the suitably

Events around the Country July/August 2019 A MODERN EYE: HELEN HOOKER O'MALLEY'S IRELAND Photography First major retrospective of the photographic work of American-born Helen Hooker O’Malley (1905-1993). Until Sept 1 / Gallery of Photography and National Photographic Archive Admission Free: galleryofphotograpy.ie / nli.ie

madly named Fanzini Productions, Ballet Poulet: two world class Olympian-level idiots bring to you their latest masterpiece in a car park. Explore more at cairdefestival.com Pain and Glory is the new film from Spanish filmmaker Pedro Almodóvar, probably one of Europe’s most acclaimed auteurs. Antonio Banderas stars as an aging film director who reflects on the choices he has made in life. These encounters, both real and imagined, conjure up images of his childhood, first desire, adult love in the post Franco Madrid of the 1980s, breakups, writing and the void that only film making can fill. Expect to be moved.

SEEN, NOT HEARD Visual Arts How children are seen in art: historical to contemporary art collections and in the work of Irish artists. Until October 28 / Crawford Art Gallery, Cork. Information: crawfordartgallery.ie

CAIRDE SLIGO ARTS FESTIVAL Festival An eight day cultural adventure, featuring a diverse programme of events to ignite the imagination. July 6 -13 / various venues in Sligo town. Information: cairdefestival.com

MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY PHOTOGRAPHY OF IRELAND Photography Four exhibitions including New Irish Works, symposia, guided tours, artists and curatorial talks. July 4- 28 / as part of Photo Ireland Festival Information + booking: photoireland.org

EARAGAIL ARTS FESTIVAL Festival Made in Donegal is the byline for this arts festival featuring all that’s happening in the North West. July 10-28 / various venues in Co. Donegal Information + booking: eaf.ie

36 Senior Times l July - August 2019 l www.seniortimes.ie

Finally, if you would like your event to feature in our list of What’s On please email: events.country@gmail.com

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Golf Portmarnock, venue for the 1949 Amateur championship

When the (British) Amateur Championship played ‘under new management’ Dermot Gilleece recalls the politically-charged Amateur Championship at Portmarnock in 1949. With a recent staging of the Amateur Championship, Portmarnock GC repeated its experience of 70 years ago. And if some eyebrows may have been raised at the idea of an intrinsically British event being held outside the United Kingdom, it was as nothing compared to the rumpus generated by the Royal and Ancient’s insistence on coming to Dublin in May 1949. At this remove, it is appropriate we should remind ourselves of the political situation in these parts when the decision was originally made in the hallowed halls of St Andrews. For a start, the 26 counties had become Eire or Ireland, under the 1937 constitution and crucially, it remained within the British Commonwealth. King George was head of state while the president was limited to symbolic duties within the state; never outside it. All of this was to change dramatically when the Republic of Ireland Act came into force on April 18th 1949, seven months after the Taoiseach, John A Costello, had made the surprise announcement on a trip to Canada. As a consequence, the country's membership of the commonwealth was terminated automatically and the President of Ireland finally became, unambiguously, the Irish head of state. Writing in The Sunday Times of October 31st 1948, Henry Longhurst was none too pleased with the arrangement. ‘Far be it from me,’ he wrote, ‘in this humble corner on a Sunday morning to get mixed up with politics, but it does seem strange that we should play a British championship in a country which is taking every legitimate step to inform the world that it is, as it were, ‘under entirely new management’, and will have no truck with the word, British.” Scoffing at the old adage about golf knowing no boundaries, dear Henry went on to suggest that a dangerous precedent would be set if the championship went ahead. ‘The boundaries for the British Amateur 38 Senior Times l July - August 2019 l www.seniortimes.ie

Max McCready captured the title for Ireland.

Championship are the boundaries of the United Kingdom,’ he went on. ‘If we are still to play at Portmarnock, interesting precedents will be established..... we will, for the first time, be compelled to arm ourselves with

Golf passports or other documents required for the identification of aliens.’ By that stage, however, it was apparently too late to change the arrangements. And on a lighter note, the championship threw up a fascinating fourth round match in which the Honourable Patrick Campbell faced Dr Billy O'Sullivan. Campbell, of course, was a distinguished journalist who was employed by the now defunct Sunday Dispatch to report on happenings at Portmarnock. It proved to be a delightful piece, despite being completed as early as the Wednesday evening. This made it necessary for the editor to add this tailpiece: ‘Patrick Campbell beat Dr O'Sullivan in the fourth round, but was knocked out by a KG Thom in the fifth _ and we have not heard from him since.’ One sensed that the editor wasn't especially discommoded by his columnist's absence, given that Campbell could hardly have improved on Wednesday's contribution.

Joe Carr, seen here with Jack Nicklaus, dropped down the leaderboard

As things turned out, Longhurst's alarmist hyperbole was exposed as groundless by the self same scribe, in a Sunday Times piece of May 29th, the day after Belfast’s Max McCready had captured the title for Ireland. ‘The morning round was played in glorious technicolor,’ he enthused. ‘The white tents and newly-painted red and while clubhouse gleamed in the sun, the sea glistened on either side of the course and the Dublin mountains shimmered purple in the background.’ And there was more. ‘The larks sang fit to burst and a lizard sunned itself on my sleeve as I watched the ninth hole--all in splendid contrast to the pouring rain one learned there was in England,’ he continued. Then, as a little bonus, Longhurst saw fit to endorse Portmarnock as ‘this great links.’ Not a mention of the dire consequences he had predicted prior to the event. One can only assume that splendid combat out on the course, was matched by suitably generous hospitality accorded the scribe from newly-liberated republicans, inside the clubhouse. The championship ran from Monday, May 23rd until Saturday the 28th and a bumper entry of 204 included an unusually large, post-war turnout from the US. Mind you, the Irish challenge had been severely trimmed by the time Campbell and O'Sullivan squared up for their fourth round encounter, though Muskerry's Mick Power, Brennie Scannell of Woodbrook and Sutton's Ray McInally also remained, along with the splendid McCready. Campbell applied himself to the challenge with a system he called ‘Crushing Power’. His preparation for the second round, he informed us, involved exposing himself to the practice ground ‘off the top of which the American competitors have already shaved a couple of inches.’ He went on: ‘I asked a distinguished golf correspondent to watch me playing a couple of shots. Just, I said, To get them really drilled at the hole.' I played seven of my best and two of the ones that leave the elbows numb but not broken. 'Well,' I asked him, 'how does it feel?' He sucked his teeth carefully. 'It feels,' he said, 'like someone rubbing a knife on a plate.' 'But the smooth lurch. The hands and the stomach and the kneecaps sweeping through?' 'You might be keeping goal,' he said, 'at lacrosse.' After a moment, he added: 'Mixed lacrosse.'" Undeterred, Campbell proceeded to ‘build the thing from the ground up’, bringing a group of muscles into play which he had last used ‘while being stunned by a blow on top of the head from a PT instructor during a boxing lesson.’For all the self-mocking, he succeeded in making greater progress than some of the more fancied contenders, including the mighty Joe Carr. And he had reason to feel suitably buoyant after a third-round victory which he wrapped up by the 14th. ‘I am a winner,’ Campbell declared, ‘with no one cheering more loudly than myself.’ Of his 10.30am assignment with O'Sullivan on the Thursday morning, he continued: ‘This is a little soon after sun-up because until now, all my fretwork has taken place after lunch. This has given a reasonable period of time to peer down the throat with mirrors to see if the Irish food had bedded down sufficiently comfortably to retain its position, at least over the first nine holes.

Above: Henry Longhurst: ‘.. it does seem strange that we should play a British championship in a country which is taking every legitimate step to inform the world that it is, as it were, ‘under entirely new management’, Left: The Hon Patrick Campbell: For all the self-mocking, he succeeded in making greater progress than some of the more fancied contenders

‘But if I'm to run out on the first tee tomorrow morning [against O'Sullivan] in racing shorts and Girl Guide's beret, almost before the first two eggs have bounced off the stop-netting, it will be difficult to tell how I'm to face up to the first six-inch putt.’ Meanwhile, with crowds growing by the day, America’s Willie Turnesa was dominating the top half of the draw in which he survived a tense quarter-final clash with Muskerry's Power on the 19th. And McCready caused a major upset with a comfortable victory at the same stage over another gifted American, Frank Stranahan, whose ‘raspberry mousse’ sweater seemed to be a source of considerable irritation to Campbell. By the time Sunday morning's papers were delivered, one suspects there was quite a conflict for golfing devotees, between serious reports on McCready's final victory over Turnesa, and the charming ramblings of Campbell, which were three days out of date by that stage. ‘There's just one point I'd like to make clear,’ he informed the readers of the Sunday Dispatch. ‘Should I beat Dr O'Sullivan in the morning, and subsequently smash my way through to the final, and then tear the raspberry mousse off Frank Stranahan, I am not available for the Walker Cup. This summer, I'm thinking of embroidering a fire-screen.’ For the record, Campbell's victory over O'Sullivan was achieved by the slender margin of 1-up. As his subsequent pieces would demonstrate, one-upmanship knew no boundaries. Senior Times l July - August 2019 l www.seniortimes.ie 39

You are invited to Cork County Hall to see the first Dรกil 100 regional exhibition. This exhibition charts 100 years of Parliamentary Democracy in Ireland from the first public meeting of Dรกil ร ireann on January 21st, 1919 to the current day. Iconic images have been selected to chart important moments in Irish society and explain how they shaped the State today.

Ireland remained neutral during the Second World War, although the North Strand area of Dublin was mistakenly bombed by Nazi Germany in 1943. photo courtesy of the national library of ireland.

Gearmánaigh Bhí Éire neodrach ar feadh an Dara Cogadh Domhanda, cé go ndearna an Ghearmáin Naitsíoch buamáil trí dhearmad ar cheantar na Trá Thuaidh i mBaile Átha Cliath i 1943.

used radio to communicate his message. His most famous broadcast was made in May 1945, in response to Winston Churchill’s attack on Ireland’s policy of neutrality during the war. photo courtesy of the irish press

grianghraf le caoinchead leabharlann náisiúnta na héireann

mheán an raidió go minic chun a raibh le rá aige a chur in iúl. Ba i mí Bealtaine 1945 a cuireadh amach an craoladh ba mhó iomrá aige, mar fhreagra ar ionsaí Winston Churchill ar bheartas neodrachta na hÉireann i rith an chogaidh. grianghraf le caoinchead the irish press

www.oireachtas.ie

The exhibition is free to view and open to the public until August 9th between 9am-5pm Monday to Friday. It will outline the many ways in which the work of Dáil Éireann has changed and developed since that pivotal first public meeting in 1919. Cork County Hall is located on Carrigrohane Rd, Sunday’s Well, Cork.

Cork County Council Comhairle Contae Chorcaí

Celebrating 100 years of Dáil Éireann

This exhibition will be available to view at locations around the country throughout the year with further information available on www.dáil100.ie

Senior Times l May - June 2019 l www.seniortimes.ie 41

Cosmetics and Beauty

The popularity rise of ‘natural’ products Mairead Robinson charts the growth of the beauty industry over the last twenty years It might seem rather ironic to some that the ability to look fresh and natural seems to take more and more effort and intervention as the years go by! But there is certainly no doubt that our idea of beauty is intrinsically linked to youth, and therefore the anti-ageing industry has been busy researching and producing more and more products and treatments to help us in our efforts to look younger than we actually are. Whatever about our appearance looking natural, the products that we are using must now be made up of natural ingredients, preferably organic, and pose as little threat to the environment as possible. This is what the consumer is demanding now, and products are increasingly boasting ‘No Sulfates; No Parabens; No Phthalates; No Paraffin; No Mineral Oil; No Synthetic Colour and No Petrolatum’. And also ‘not tested on

animals’. There is no doubt that there is a rising trend of natural and botanical skincare which is sustainable for both the consumer and the planet. Cruelty –free and vegan friendly are also traits of products that are much in demand in today’s beauty market. The beauty industry has grown phenomenally around the world, and now products are competing for shelf space in our pharmacies and salons. It is a far cry from our mother’s day when a little ‘cold cream’ some lipstick and a dusting of powder was all it took to look glamorous. Between skin care and cosmetic products, we now need a huge amount of products to look well. So how has the industry responded to this demand? One brand that I have become a fan of in recent years is Eminence, whose products are phytoceutical, that is derived from plant based, organic ingredients, so there are no

42 Senior Times l July - August 2019 l www.seniortimes.ie

harmful effects like there can be from cosmeceutical products. They also plant a tree for every product sold, and use cornstarch ‘styroform’ packing for packaging products. Their products are designed to help slow the ageing process without stripping the skin and reducing the signs and symptoms of ageing, acne, rosacea, sun damage, scarring and skin

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Cosmetics and Beauty

sensitivity. They use solar and wind energy to make products, so for those who want to be conscientious about their children and grandchildren’s future, and indeed the future of the planet, it is one to look out for. Nivea is brand well known on the market, and interestingly they have been pioneers of Coenzyme Q10 for over the past twenty years. This duel function ingredient both energises and hydrates the skin as it both protects and stimulates the skin’s natural collagen production. Collagen contributes to the skin’s firmness but it does decrease on average by 1per cent per year. Their new Q10 Power range of skin care is their most powerful anti-ageing range yet, and is available with SPF 15 and SPF 30. Here again ‘natural’ is the key, as the product range is designed to unlock your skin’s own anti-ageing ‘superpower’. Another area of the beauty industry that has undergone huge growth in the last twenty years, is the hair care sector. Years ago it was the blue rinse and tight perm for virtually all women over fifty years of age, and the only treatment available was a ‘Shampoo and Set’ which meant sitting under a hot dryer for long periods. But the chemicals used in hair colour and even in shampoos, let alone harsh heat treatments, have been now replaced by much more gentle and nourishing products. Phyto produce sulphate-free shampoo and conditioner that protects your hair colour and you can wash in cooler water, thus helping the environment too. Another great new sulphate-free shampoo on the market now is Shea Moisture, a clarifying shampoo which removes product build-up while infusing hair with moisture. Formulated with Jamaican

black castor oil and certified organic Shea Butter, this shampoo is a great hit with the women in our family as it exceptionally effective for curly hair. We all noticed a real difference in the condition of our hair when we started using it. Another benefit in the development of the beauty industry over the past twenty years, is the availability of new products that did not exist previously. For skin care I always recommend using a serum every day and night under your moisturiser to maximise hydration for your skin. Also double cleansing is now recommended to remove all make-up and daily grime from your skin. Regarding the condition of mature skin, one issue that we battle with is dark and puffy under eye area. While ensuring you are drinking enough water and getting enough sleep, the next thing is to minimise their appearance. Concealers can help tremendously, but you must use them correctly otherwise you can draw attention to the area and make the appearance worse. Irish company Ayu set up by makeup artist Suzie O’Neill has come up with an instant under eye concealer that is lightweight and conceals and brightens dry and mature skin. It evens out the skin tone under the eyes for a fresher, more youthful look in an instant. A handbag essential that really works – whip

44 Senior Times l July - August 2019 l www.seniortimes.ie

it out before those cameras start clicking! There are also fantastic tutorials online especially for the older demographic, if you are unsure how to use them. www.ayumakeup.ie And finally of course the most important development in the world of health and beauty over the past twenty years has been the realization of the importance of sunscreen. Long gone now are the days of putting olive oil on your skin to attract a tan (or rather fry your skin), and the knowledge that you need a good SPF even in cloudy weather is well documented. Along with protecting your health, it is your most important anti-ageing tool. I am a big fan of Eucerin Photoaging Control SPF 50 for my face during the summer and always when abroad. Another great new product is Eminence Lilikoi Mineral Defence Sport Sunscreen SPF 30 which is a water-resistant mineral sun cream for face and body, which helps with visible signs of ageing and alleviates the appearance of damage from sun exposure and hydrates the skin. One thing you should never scrimp on is your sun protection, so use products like these which form probably the most important part of your twenty-first century health and beauty arsenal.

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Northern

By Debbie Orme

Notes

Northern Ireland rises from thirty years of conflict The last twenty years, since Senior Times was first published, have proved momentous for Northern Ireland. Debbie Orme, gives us a personal view of how life has changed.

‘The Dark Hedges’ internationally popularised by Game Of Thrones which is estimated to have brought more than £206m into the local economy over eight series!

Over the last month, as my sixteen-year-old was doing her GCSEs, I realised one day with some bemusement that her ‘history’ paper featured as one of its subjects: ‘Northern Ireland 1969-1998’. I found this a little bewildering..particularly since this ‘history’ was my life! I was born in 1964, a mere five years before The Troubles broke out. While in my first five years of life I was taken with toys and dolls, the rest of my formative years were spent in the living nightmare that constituted ‘life in Northern Ireland’ at that time. From the late Sixties, Northern Ireland had been plunged into a brutal conflict between republicans and unionists. Violence was perpetrated by paramilitary groups on both sides. Of the 3532 people, who died, the majority were civilians, many of whom were killed in random, tit-for-tat attacks across the sectarian divide. During my childhood and teenage years, life followed a set pattern. There were areas that you went into and those that you avoided. Trips into Belfast city centre – or any shopping area for that matter – involved being frisked at the security gates, and having your bag searched. I vividly remember buying LPs and having the security woman remove them from the album cover – and indeed the plastic covering – and ‘feeling’ the records to ensure that they were what they appeared to be. On rare nights out, we were all attuned to the

invariable bomb alerts, which would see us all pile out onto the streets – usually to wait until the bomb squad had declared the call a hoax. Despite all of this, our lives were – to us at least – ‘normal’. On one occasion I recall being horrorstruck at an American penfriend writing and asking if we ran zigzag to the helicopter to go for our shopping! ‘What the heck,’ I asked incredulous, ‘does she think we’re living in? A war zone?’ Looking back now, I realise, we probably were. What seemed ‘normal’ to us was far from it and even writing this now seems a lifetime away. Why? Because, over the last twenty years, NI has not only risen from the ashes, but is now taking great strides forward on a local, national and indeed, global, level. After so many years of The Troubles, we felt resigned to more of the same, but then, in the 1990s, progress suddenly started to be made. Dialogue between SDLP leader, John Hume, and Sinn Féin leader, Gerry Adams, made moves towards consensus across the nationalist community, while ceasefires announced by the IRA and the loyalists in 1994 were welcomed.

46 Senior Times l July - August 2019 l www.seniortimes.ie

Suddenly, we saw a glimmer of light. A slither of hope for the future.

At this point, US President, Bill Clinton, began to take a real interest in NI and sent his special envoy, George Mitchell, to eventually chair the talks between the various parties and groups. When Tony Blair became British PM in 1997, he saw the necessity of including Sinn Féin in the process. After much talking between the British and Irish governments, on 10 April 1998, the Good Friday Agreement was signed at Hillsborough Castle by Mr Blair and the Irish Taoiseach, Bertie Ahern. This agreement was a watershed because, for the first time, it acknowledged both the constitutional status of Northern Ireland as part of the UK and the principle of consent – ie, that while it reflected the majority of NI citizens, it also stated that a united Ireland would come about if and when a majority of people in NI and ROI wanted it. The Good Friday Agreement, which was opposed by the Democratic Unionist Party, was put to a referendum on 22 May 1998 and 71 per cent of people voted ‘yes’. This effectively ended 30 years of political and sectarian conflict – years which had seen NI constantly on the global media radar – and for all the wrong reasons. The years that followed were still turbulent and uncertain, but one good thing that came out of the agreement was that the NI Assembly was established and met for the first time on 1 July 1998 – albeit in ‘shadow form’ until full powers were devolved to the Assembly in December 1999. No sooner had David Trimble, the leader of the Ulster Unionists, become First Minister, however, the violence returned to the headlines when 29 people were killed by a car bombing in Omagh: the worst single attack in nearly 30 years of violence.

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Northern Notes Since then, the Assembly has operated intermittently and has been suspended on five occasions, including the current impasse, which has seen the Assembly inactive since January 2017. The changing face of NI – the ‘chuckle brothers’ One of the strangest things to come out of the Assembly was what turned out to be a great friendship between the Democratic Unionist Party’s leader, Dr Ian Paisley, and Sinn Féin’s chief negotiator, Martin McGuinness. In May 2006, when the Assembly was once again restored, Paisley refused Sinn Féin’s nomination to be First Minister alongside McGuinness as Deputy First Minister. Amazingly, after much negotiation, in May 2007, power-sharing returned to the province, with Paisley and McGuinness as First and Deputy First Minister. Very soon, the two men were appearing side by side, seemingly enjoying each other’s company. Nicknamed the ‘chuckle brothers’ because they always seemed to be laughing, the friendship of these two men, who represented the political extremes in Northern Ireland, was considered a symbol of the ‘new Northern Ireland’ and offered the face for the future of NI. The two men’s friendship continued until Paisley’s death in 2014, after which Paisley’s widow Eileen revealed that McGuinness had been very supportive to the family during her husband's long illness and said their friendship had meant a great deal to her husband. ‘His friendship with Martin McGuinness,’ she said, ‘had meant something very special to him.’ McGuinness himself spoke about their friendship at the time. ‘Despite our differences,’ he said, ‘I found him to be a charismatic and powerful personality. He always treated me and those who worked with me with respect and courtesy. The peace process and I have lost a friend.’ How NI business was affected Throughout The Troubles, the economy of NI was unsurprisingly affected by the violence, the political instability and the consequent inability to compete in a growing global market. Regular bombings saw business owners across the province rebuild, reopen and relocate at an alarming rate, determined as it was to never give in. The Europa Hotel in Belfast was a classic example. As it now approaches its 50th anniversary, the hotel – which is probably Belfast’s most famous place to stay – is a reminder of the resilience and fortitude of many business people across the province. Ignominiously known as 'Europe's most bombed hotel’, the Europa was damaged 33 times by IRA bombs between 1970 and 1994 and played hosts to

Ignominiously known as 'Europe's most bombed hotel’, the Europa was damaged 33 times by IRA bombs between 1970 and 1994 and played hosts to President Bill Clinton during his two visits to Belfast in 1995 and 1998.

President Bill Clinton during his two visits to Belfast in 1995 and 1998. The use of hardboard as a temporary substitute for shattered glass led to the hotel being known as 'the hardboard hotel', but, throughout it all, the hotel was never destroyed and only closed its doors twice in its almost 50-year history! NI economy gets a boost Once the peace process was set in motion, it was clear that the groundwork had been established to allow economic progress. In 1994, the NI branch of the Confederation of British Industry (the CBI) produced a publication called ‘Peace – a challenging New Era’. Fortunately, following the paper’s publication, the media began to focus on the ‘peace dividend’. The NI government capitalised on this and started to promote this approach by hosting events such as the investment conference in Belfast in 1994. This new approach paid off almost immediately, with the tourism sector increasing by up to 20 per cent within the year. In 1996, the CBI joined six other leading business and trade organisations to form the Group of Seven, which became known as the G7. The group’s main aim was to promote a single peace message, which articulated a strong necessity for NI to decide on a ‘stark choice between a future of peace and prosperity, or a destiny as being remembered as one of the world’s most irredeemable trouble spots’. In June 1998, just as the Good Friday agreement was signed, the GP organised a visit to NI for a delegation of leading businessmen. At this point, 30 per cent of all foreign direct investment was from the United States and by 2002-2003 more than £120 million poured into the province from the States. The future, it seemed, was finally looking positive – from all angles. Going forward Since the peace process began, the NI economy has continued to grow at a steady rate. Perhaps unsurprisingly, one of the fast-

48 Senior Times l July - August 2019 l www.seniortimes.ie

est-growing sectors is that of tourism. Recent statistics have shown that, in 2017, there were an estimated 4.9 million overnight trips in Northern Ireland, with expenditure estimated at £926m: the highest estimates on record. Overnight trips to Northern Ireland by external visitors was estimated to be 2.7 million, while an estimated 2.1 million hotel room nights were sold in NI. Hotel room occupancy was estimated to be 73 per cent in 2017: a figure reflected in the fact that hotels are popping up all over the province at an alarming – but welcome – rate of knots! In 2017, 112 cruise ships docked at NI ports: a major increase from the 33, which docked in 2011! Picture perfect! While many may be visiting the province for the stunning scenery and landscapes, NI’s popularity as a filming location is worth an amazing £270m to the economy, with global hit, Game Of Thrones alone, estimated to have brought more than £206m into the local economy over eight series! NI also now boasts ‘the world’s most famous tourist attraction’! Opened in 2012 to mark the centenary of the sinking of the iconic ship, Titanic Belfast generated £105 million in additional tourism spend for the NI economy over its first three years. In addition to the 576,000 visitors from NI, more than 71 per cent of visitors were from outside of NI. Over the last three years half a million visitors’ main reason to visit Northern Ireland was to see Titanic Belfast. What peace means to me Living in Northern Ireland fills me with a mixture of pride and frustration. In the last twenty years we’ve come so far but, unfortunately, there are always throwbacks to the dark past. For all of the region’s achievements, the strands of green and orange underpin everything and it only takes the slightest thing to bring them to the fore. Nevertheless, thankfully, for the most part, the number of positive factors about life here today are keeping the voices of nationalism and loyalism quietened while we continue to strengthen our place on the international stage. The number of food companies exporting around the world has risen dramatically and we’re becoming renowned for more than our violent past. You can’t walk through Belfast city centre now without hearing a myriad of languages. Hotels are popping up everywhere – and most are full to capacity. New and exciting restaurants are offering top quality cosmopolitan cuisine. It may have taken some time, but NI hospitality has finally kicked into gear and people are now realising what the province has to offer. Next month the 148th Open takes place in Portrush and the eyes of the world will be on the North Coast. And this time – it will be for the right reasons!

Literature

PG Wodehouse: at the height of his career in 1930s Hollywood, was earning a salary of over £100,000 per year.

Whato, it’s Wodehouse! In the latest of her literary reflections Lorna Hogg sketches the life and times of PG Wodehouse A comedy series, set in the 1920s, about the mishaps of an idle, rich young man and his butler was quite a gamble for television producers in the 1990s. However , P.G Wodehouse’s Jeeves and Wooster won a new generation of followers – thanks to the comic talents of actors Stephen Fry and Hugh Laurie. Its distinctive blend of ‘airy nonchalance and refined gormlessness’ caught the mood of the books, in a way matched only by the televised version of The Forsyte Saga. These days, thanks to television re-runs and box sets, it retains a place in both literary and TV history. Pelham Grenville Wodehouse was born in Guildford, Surrey on 15th October 1881, the third son of a British magistrate based in Hong Kong. His travels started early, leaving for Hong Kong, then a British colony, as a baby. He was cared for by a Chrinese nanny, as were most children in his position. Aged two, he returned to the UK, whilst his parents continued to live in Hong Kong. Whilst this was the norm of the time, some feel that the separation from his parents created an emotional isolation – Wodehouse later estimated that from the age of three until 15 years, he saw his parents for just six months. Ironically, however this separation would allow his imagination to develop, as he created a world of his own. His time at Dame School was not enjoyable. However, when it became clear that his poor eyesight ruled out a naval carer, at the age of twelve he was sent to Dulwich College in London, which he truly enjoyed. An Oxbridge career was prevented by his parents’s financial difficulties, following changes in currency exchange rates. So, the young Woodhouse 50 Senior Times l July - August 2019 l www.seniortimes.ie

joined the Hong Kong and Shanghai Bank (now part of banking giant HSBC) which he did not enjoy. He did, however, start writing, submitting pieces to magazines, and in 1901, he was published in The Globe. His first novel, The Pothunters appeared in 1902. and he would describe this time as his ‘apprentice days’

Literature

Stephen Fry and Hugh Laurie in the hit TV series Jeeves and Wooster

Wodehouse and wife Ethel in Long island later in life

A brief visit to New York gave him an appetite for writing, and he also started writing short stories and novels After some work with London stage producers, in 1906 he became the resident lyricist at the Aldwych Theatre, and his stage experience informed his writing.

The development of some of eccentric characters, including the Blandings Castle set, plus, of course, Jeeves and Wooster came from this time. There was also a spell in Hollywood, and writing for Broadway.

In 1909, Wodehouse returned to New York, where he was welcomed, and stayed until 1914. He met his future wife, the widowed Ethel Wayman, and created a little family unit of his own, growing to love and later adopt her daughter. The family was very happy – Ethel understood him, and provided a caring background, so that he could focus on his work. That work included farce and comedy, plus some work on Broadway.

His success in Hollywood meant these were his years of peak earnings Detractors have dismissed Wodehouse’s writings as anonyingly flippant, arch and even ‘musical comedy without the music..’ Yet a considerable amount of work went into the novels’ creation. He started with some 400 pages of notes on each, and a full plot before beginning the stories. Wodehouse wrote from 4.pm until 7pm daily, and put his success down to his attitude to life, and the fact that he could see the

Literature

PG Wodehouse with his wife and daughter in Le Touquet in 1924

humorous side of things. He earned that success – and at the height of his career in 1930s Hollywood, was earning a salary of over £100,000 per year. He could never, however, have guessed that his life would soon change – and not for the better. Both the British and American tax authorities took great interest in the `bi-located’ Wodehouse at this time, and he decided to move to Le Touquet in France. The pretty Normandy town was a virtual ‘Little England,’ loved by the smart social set – and was occupied by the Germans in 1940. In 1941, in the midst of a game of croquet, the Gestapo arrived to arrest him, and Wodehouse found himself interned in an old castle, in four to a cell squalor. However, he ended up at the luxurious Hotel Adlon, in Berlin, where he paid his own bills from his frozen bank account, until he was released on his 60th birthday. However, shortly aftewards, he was trapped into making five broadcasts on German radio to the United States. One of his topics was a humorous talk –‘How be an Internee without Previous Experience.’ The broadcast was, of course, picked up in a war ravaged Britain. Many people took his talks to be treasonable. Some colleagues, however, defended him. Malcolm Muggeridge said that a charge of treason was ridiculous, whilst Orwell claimed that Wodhouse could not tbe convicted of anything other than stupidity.

Sitting out the war in Berlin

Wooster wordbite

He could never return to the UK, but spent the rest of his life in the States. Many back home never forgave him during his lifetime, and he was blocked for a Knigthhood three times. Harold Wilson eventually gave him one just before his death. In the early 2000s, M15 released files which showed Wodehouse to be unwary, easily manipulated and unworldly, but not traitorous. He died on 14th February 1975.

‘The voice of love called to me – but it was a wrong number..’

Woodhouse’s humour, with its similies, prefixes and creativity with the English language brought in a new generation of fans between 1990 and 1994, thanks to talents of actors Stepehen Fry and Hugh Laurie. This has ensured that despite the dislike, and even occasional contempt of more serious authors, his continued fame is assured.

‘If he had a mind, there was something on it..’

52 Senior Times l July - August 2019 l www.seniortimes.ie

‘I could see that if not actually disgruntled, he was far from being gruntled.’ ‘....and she’s got brains enough for two, which is the exact quantity the girl who marries you will need...’

‘At the age of eleven or thereabouts women acquire a poise and an ability to handle difficult situations which a man, if he is lucky, manages to achieve somewhere in the later seventies.’

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Fit The

Edited by Conor O’Hagan

indoor & outdoor activities supplement Fitness

It’s never too late to get fit Here’s how to make it happen. Conor O’Hagan explains Why exercise?

mental. We are designed to move, and that’s how we work best and longest.

Slowing down with age is part of the normal order of things – the way we expect our lives to progress. Whether it’s because of health or mobility issues, increasing weight or just taking advantage of the opportunity to do less and relax more, it can seem natural to drop down a gear. Or two.

The physical

Truth is, though, the ‘retirement years’ not only place a higher premium on physical activity – for most of us they actually offer more opportunity for it than middle age, when work, family and life in general seem to conspire against our best intentions. Physical activity has been shown to be the most significant contributor to longevity – and that’s true even when it begins only in later life. But aside from the merely statistical benefits of exercise, there is ample, incontrovertible evidence in our daily lives that getting or remaining active contributes hugely to quality of life. Regular movement increases energy, reduces risk of countless diseases, eases pain and strengthens vital bodily functions – physical and 54 Senior Times l July - August 2019 l www.seniortimes.ie

Almost universally, the biggest single motivator for physical exercise in the developed world – at any age – is weight loss. Whether the motivation is cosmetic, functional or health-related, losing weight is king, and as our metabolism slows and muscle mass starts to decline, burning calories becomes even more of an issue. There is a huge and ever-growing body of evidence that exercise reduces the risk of many chronic diseases, including almost all the major killers. Aside from heart disease in its many forms and many major cancers, exercise has been shown to reduce the risk of Alzheimers, diabetes and osteoporosis. In recent years the role of sleep in maintaining both health and quality of life has seen a major reappraisal. Whereas once we prided ourselves on how little sleep we could manage on, today sleep quality is known

Fitness

to influence susceptibility to many major health issues both mental and physical. Regular exercise promotes longer, better sleep and better function in almost all aspects of life.

The mental Closely related, mood and confidence – which in a sense are the very indicators of a healthy life – are major beneficiaries of exercise and fitness. Exercise relieves stress; the endorphins produced during physical activity ease depression and anxiety and promote feelings of well-being and confidence. While mental activities have been shown to play an important part in brain health, the brain is a physical organ benefitting from exercise just as do our muscles and joints. Many major studies have confirmed that regular exercise protects against cognitive decline, memory loss and dementia, while boosting the ability to multitask, concentrate and think creatively.

Why not? – the objections Moving from a sedentary lifestyle to an exercise regime comes easily to some people – but not to others. Most of us like to keep things just as they are, and jumping up to stretch the limbs or flex the muscles isn’t always enjoyable at first. In addition, you may have aches and pains to contend with, or you could be afraid of falling. If you’ve never exercised before, you may simply not know where to start, or perhaps you just don’t believe you’re capable of anything worthwhile.

You can’t fight time You might not be able to make a clock go backwards, but many of the effects of ageing that we come to accept are actually far from inevitable and can at the very least be slowed considerably. In addition to the health benefits already mentioned, the ‘use it or lose it’ principle applies to mobility – one of the most debilitating effects of ageing. Regular physical activity helps you look and feel younger and stay independent longer, and the mood benefits of exercise can be just as great at 70 as they were at 20.

I’ll fall In fact, regular exercise, by strengthening muscles, prevents loss of bone mass and improves balance, actually reducing your risk of falling.

I’ll never get fitter True, changes in hormones, metabolism, bone density, and muscle mass mean that strength and performance levels inevitably decline with age, but that doesn’t mean you can’t improve or set and reach goals. The fact is that a sedentary lifestyle erodes athletic ability far more than biological ageing.

I’m too old Never. In fact, the older you are, the more you have to gain. Just listen to your body; don’t try too much too soon and get advice where appropriate (at a gym or club) and you’ll never regret being active. And remem-

Senior Times l July - August 2019 l www.seniortimes.ie 55

Fitness

ber this; if you have no sporting background, the chances are that you don’t suffer from any legacy injuries that many former sportspeople have to deal with.

I’m disabled. Of course, this depends on your specific challenges, but even for those who are wheelchair-bound, there are many ways to engage, from lifting weights to aerobics. The range of age group and disability sports is growing all the time. Ask at your local sports centre or search online.

It hurts Getting moving can help you manage pain and improve your strength and self- confidence. Many older people find that regular activity not only helps stem the decline in strength and vitality that comes with age, but actually improves it. The key is to start off gently.

Fine, but I hate exercising You and me both. Not everyone hops out of bed bright-eyed and bushy-tailed, and if you dread working out, you’re not alone. But you don’t have to flog yourself or wake up the next morning with every muscle screaming; some people love that, others like to step up the work-rate so gradually that they don’t even notice they’re doing it. Both are entirely legit approaches to fitness. In the end, the only good form of exercise is the one you keep doing, which means the one you enjoy. And if that seems to contradict the first sentence of this paragraph, just bear in mind that wanting to do it and enjoying it are two different things. Even as you exercise, there are things you can do to enhance the experience: in the gym (though it’s not really recommended while walking or cycling on the roads), many people enjoy listening to music, podcasts or 56 Senior Times l July - August 2019 l www.seniortimes.ie

audiobooks, while window-shopping and walking are not only mutually conducive, they’re symbiotic! Choosing a competitive activity such as tennis, if you’re that way inclined, can be an unbeatable source of motivation, and the joys of dog ownership need no introduction. There’s simply nothing more likely to get you out in all weathers than a wagging tail. For most of us, though, the surest path to sustainable exercise is doing it in company. Good conversation makes anything a pleasure, so whether it’s with a partner, a friend or with a club, try to engage with others as a source of motivation and encouragement.

The beauty of balance There are four core elements in fitness; some activities and sports address several of them; others are more focused on one aspect and should ideally be complemented with more general exercise in order to achieve all-round fitness.

Cardiovascular ‘Cardio’ sports such as running, walking, cycling and swimming work large muscle groups over extended periods of time – and in doing so give the heart and lungs a good workout. Cardio fitness is the gold standard and benefits daily life and health, lessening fatigue and boosting energy – as well as burning calories.

Strength Building muscle, either by working against body weight or with external resistance from weights or machines, can improve balance, burn fat and make daily life easier- even in mundane tasks such as getting in and out of a car!. It can also do wonders for your self-esteem. Strength training also helps build bone density.

Fitness

Balance The ability to move easily and confidently without fear of falling is a precious asset in later life. Exercise classes such as Yoga, Tai Chi and Pilates can improve or build balance and posture – beneficial not only in daily life but in other forms of exercise and sport.

Yoga. Many people are confused as to the differences between the 5,000 year-old discipline of Yoga and its relatively modern cousin Pilates, but essentially both combine a series of poses with breathing. Moving through the poses helps improve strength, flexibility and balance, and both forms are inclusive of all ages.

Flexibility

So off you go – but first..

Good mobility – and the independence it brings – is largely dependent on range of movement. By maintaining or increasing flexibility through floor exercises, stretches and disciplines such as Yoga, everything from putting your socks on to playing with the grandchildren will be easier, safer and more enjoyable.

Get the OK from your doctor before starting an exercise programme, especially if you have a pre-existing condition. Ask if there are any activities you should avoid.

What to do? Walking. It’s no secret that walking is the perfect way to start exercising – and if you do nothing else, let it be walking. It requires no special equipment, aside from a pair of comfortable walking shoes, and can be done anywhere, at any time. The scientific evidence for walking as the King of Exercise is vast and constantly expanding. Sports or fitness classes. Keeps you motivated while also providing a source of fun, stress relief, and a place to meet friends. For many, the modest subscription you may need to pay is a small but important source of motivation. Swimming. Working out in water reduces stress and strain on the body’s joints; it’s completely impact-free and for those who would rather go it alone, a pool session is pure me-time. For the hardier souls, sea swimming is growing in popularity, with a hard-core but welcoming community of devotees. Cycling. In its various forms, cycling has been the growth sport of the last 20 years – for all ages. A superb route to cardiovascular fitness, cycling offers a range of challenges and outlets unmatched by any other sport.

Consider health concerns. Keep in mind how your ongoing health problems affect your workouts. For example, diabetics may need to adjust the timing of medication and meal plans when setting an exercise schedule. Listen to your body. It’s talking to you. Exercise should never hurt unless you want it to. Stop exercising immediately if you feel dizzy or short of breath, develop chest pain or pressure, break out in a cold sweat, or experience unexpected pain. Consult your doctor And hit the pause button if a joint is red, swollen, or tender to the touch—the best way to cope with injuries is to avoid them in the first place. If you regularly experience pain or discomfort after exercising, try exercising for less time but more frequently throughout the day. Start slow and build up steadily. If you haven’t been active in a while, build up your exercise program little by little. Try spacing workouts in ten-minute increments twice a day. Or try just one class each week. If you’re concerned about falling or have an ongoing heart problem, start with easy chair exercises to slowly increase your fitness and confidence. Prevent injury and dehydration by warming up, cooling down, and keeping water handy. Commit to an exercise schedule for at least 3 or 4 weeks so that it becomes habit, and force yourself to stick with it. This is much easier if you find activities you enjoy. Senior Times l July - August 2019 l www.seniortimes.ie 57

Wine World

Twenty years a growing! Mairead Robinson explores the developing world of wine.

Twenty years ago I embarked on my first wine trip for a wine magazine in the company of a couple of very knowledgeable English journalists from Decanter. Our destination was Romania to see the developments in the wine industry there, and particularly their success with Pinot Noir. It was a fascinating trip for me that spear-headed a journey into the world of wine that is ever-growing and developing. Here in Ireland our own relationship with wine has grown at an amazing pace over the past twenty years, and indeed it is worth looking back even further to see how our tastes have developed. Remember life back in the 60s? We embraced ‘far out’ fashion, music and flower power, however our taste for wine during this time was much more conservative and those who could afford it (as opposed to those of us who were weaned on dreaded Pedrotti) were still in the throes of a grand old love affair with Bordeaux. Claret, Burgundy and Rioja were mainstream and considered reliable, classic and safe for those who knew about wine and could afford to indulge. However, slowly the first green shoots of ‘discovery’ began to sprout up from New World Australia, New Zealand and Chile. Then came the 70s This was the decade that brought us Chianti in a straw basket, Liebfraumilch, and a candle in an empty bottle of Mateus Rose were trending. And of course Babycham was the height of sophistication! Staples of the Seventies, it was all about wines from classic countries and a lot to do with lifestyle and labels.

Then came the 70s This was the decade that brought us Chianti in a straw basket,

And so to the 80s Shoulder pads, Dynasty and a glass of chardonnay or Beaujolais Nouveau, were the order of the day. Wine enthusiasts religiously kept the third Thursday of November free for ‘Le Beaujolais Nouveau Est Arrivé parties’, so we could glug back copious amounts of gamay as soon as it landed – wine shops fiercely competed to be the first to offer its customers the latest vintage. Indeed, this is still the case for many Beaujolais enthusiasts. The early-Nineties is where it gets really interesting as we moved full pelt into the New World. Big Australian Chardonnays were in their heyday and here in Ireland we loved it so much, we even named our daughters after it! This was also a sign our tastes were changing and we were thirsty for high impact wines. Come the late-Nineties, however, we were whispering ‘ABC’ (anything but chardonnay) and shouting for zingy, herbaceous Sauvignon Blanc. Personally I have never fallen for this grape, nor the rather bland Pinot Grigio either. When it comes to white wine, my love and loyalty has always been with Chardonnay in its many guises. Although I never named either of my daughters after it!

58 Senior Times l July - August 2019 l www.seniortimes.ie

And so during the past twenty years we have seen a huge change in our wine consumption in Ireland. While internationally there has been a big increase in emerging brands from globe-trotting winemakers from Europe, California and South America. Provencal Rosé also began to make waves some years ago, with tipplers loving the notion of a Riviera lifestyle. Wine lovers have also become more adventurous and confident about buying bottles from relatively unknown regions and grape varieties, especially Eastern Europe, and basing their purchases on what their taste buds were telling them. This confidence is a great thing, and is partly down to bottle labels being clearer on the varieties contained in the wine. It was down to the New World that we can now know what grapes are in each bottle, as well as the region it comes from. It is fascinating to look at just how our consumption of wine in Ireland has grown, and what countries have become our favourites. In the last twenty years the wine market has doubled! It has grown from 4.5 million 9L cases to 9 million cases today. Chile is our favourite producer, with consumption growing from

Wine World 669,000 cases in 2000 to 2,446,295 in 2017. Australia comes next with consumption jumping from 750,000 to 1,153,079 in the same period. In third place is France who held the lead in 2000 with 1,043,000 and now has only increased to 1,150,665 And in fourth place we have Spain who grew from 257,000 to a massive 1,141,605 These figures show not only how our consumption has increased, but also how our tastes have changed, with New World wines coming out on top. This is certainly the biggest change in wine consumption in recent decades. Issues which have changed the world of wine for us over the past twenty years particularly include the emergence of screwcaps as viable options to cork, the threat posed by global warming and early ripening grapes, and the growth of biodynamic and organic wines on the market in recent years. So too has our taste in glassware developed, and how we like to enjoy our favourite tipple. Nowhere is this more apparent than when drinking sparkling wines – we have gone from round flat glasses to flutes and back to retro flat glasses again. One very positive change has been the change from the dreaded quarter bottles, to wine by the glass, which we can now thankfully enjoy in increasing numbers of restaurants and bars. And as we look to the future, it seems that Natural Wines are growing in interest and popularity. These include Organic and Biodynamic wine production, and as to how much this market will grow remains to be seen. This summer an international conference on the future of wine will be held in Portugal, and it will bring together top winemakers, wine writers and experts to look at the emerging issues facing the industry worldwide in the years to come. It promises to be a fascinating event and I look forward to writing about it in the next issue. In the meantime, enjoy your summer with friends and a glass off something lovely. Cheers!

And of course Babycham was the height of sophistication!

Your chance to win a Doro 8040 Smartphone To celebrate the 100th issue of SeniorTimes we are giving away a Doro 8040 Smartphone for 3 lucky readers. All you have to do is email us at info@slp.ie or send your entry to SeniorTimes, Doro Competition, 15 Oxford Lane, Ranelagh, Dublin 6. Winner is will be drawn on the 1st August 2019.

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Times The magazine for people who don’t act

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Doris Day:

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Tracing your Derry ancestors

Genealogist Brian Mitchell advises

Unfamiliar Venice

Hidden gems in this city jewel

It’s never too late to get fit

How to make it happen

Delish from Donegal

Recipes from Donegal Table

PLUS: Mary O’Rourke – Creative Writing - Competitions – Motoring – Travel – Gardening - Health - Meeting Place and much more...

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Four reasons to travel to Sol Eyes in Spain for eye surgery Cataract surgery is one of the most common procedures performed worldwide. Sooner or later, everyone is affected by cataracts and will need surgery. However, the waiting list for the operation can be anything from a few months to five years, especially in countries with a public healthcare service. Obviously, a long delay impacts on a person’s quality of life. They may feel socially isolated and unable to enjoy a range of activities to the full. However, this is not the only problem associated with delays: the longer the cataracts are left untreated, the more likely it is that symptoms increase and complications arise. This is especially true for older patients, because visual impairment can have a more drastic effect on their daily lives.

What are cataract symptoms? A cataract causes the lens to become cloudy. The patient will have loss of vision leading to trouble with reading, driving and seeing in the dark, as well as a need to use brighter lights. Some people simply adjust to these symptoms and it is only after they have surgery that they realise what they have been missing due to visual impairment.

Sol Eyes is a cataract specialist The Scandinavian doctors at the Sol Eyes Eye Clinic are known specialists in cataract surgery and the “Presbyopia correction” operations, where the original lens is replaced with an artificial lens. Whilst the procedure is identical in both cases, in the cataract operation the original lens will be replaced with a monofocal lens that

cures the cataract for good, but it does not correct possible refractions. By contrast, with the Presbyopia surgery, the original lens is replaced by a multifocal lens that not only removes the cataract for good, but also corrects the vision, because a multifocal intraocular lens allows you to see close-up and distance alike. The latter procedure is also referred to as the Age-Related Long sightedness operation. Not only have the ophthalmic surgeons at Sol Eyes performed thousands of cataract and Presbyopia operations, they have also used the procedure themselves; so they know what it is like from a patient’s perspective.

Dry Eyes treatment A number of our patients from overseas are interested in treatment for dry eyes, which is a very common problem. The most typical cause of this symptom is an imbalance in the Meibomian glands. Sol Eyes is a pioneer in this field with its ThermoFlo treatment. This is the perfect solution for tired, dry and itchy eyes. This gentle, relaxing massage treatment gives patients immediate relief by liquefying any obstruction in the Meibomian glands. It’s like a Spa for the yes and our patients leave feeling a comfort they have not known in some time.

For more information about Sol Eyes clinics & Sol Med clinics go to www.soleyes.es

Why travel to the Sol Eyes clinic We treat a significant number of visitors who travel to Spain for eye surgery. They come here because the procedure is less expensive than in their home country. Recovery is also fast, so they can enjoy a week’s holiday while having their eyesight fixed. Furthermore, Sol Eyes follows the Scandinavian attention to quality in every aspect of our service: from customer service to examinations, the operation itself and the after care in our state-of-the-art premises, everything is done to the highest standard while still managing to keep prices lower than in northern European countries. There are four reasons to come to Sol Eyes in Spain for your cataract or dry eye treatment: •

Sol Eyes specialises in this procedure and it offers a state-of-the-art service with excellent after care

•

The cost of the surgery is lower than in other parts of Europe

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You no longer have to wait months or even years for surgery

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You can enjoy a fabulous holiday in Spain, as recovery time from our procedures is minimal.

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Delish from Donegal

Cooking

Five recipes from Brian McDermott’s best-selling Donegal Table Mammy’s Irish Stew

5. After an hour, add the chopped cabbage and check if the lamb is tender. If not, cook for a further 20 minutes. 6. Serve this hearty dish in a bowl and enjoy with family and friends. Brian’s Tip Scoop out the inside of a round sourdough bap, leaving just the crust, and serve the stew inside the bread. Fifteen-Minute Orzo Pasta With Bacon And Cabbage

I don’t think there is a person in Ireland who hasn’t enjoyed an Irish mammy’s Irish stew at some point in their lives. For me, Irish stew didn’t just taste amazing – it also provided security and comfort as I sat at the table with my mammy. I used to run home from school to beat my brothers in the door and ensure I got a decent portion before them. Serves 6 1 kg diced Irish lamb (preferably shoulder cut) 2 bay leaves Drizzle of rapeseed oil 2 cloves of garlic, crushed 1 onion, peeled and diced 1 carrot, peeled and diced, 1/2 leek, diced 1 parsnip, peeled and diced 2 sprigs of fresh thyme Freshly ground black pepper 4 potatoes, peeled and diced 2 litres warm chicken stock Handful of young cabbage leaves, chopped 1. Cover the lamb pieces in water and simmer with one of the bay leaves for about 20 minutes. 2. Heat a casserole pot, add the oil and sweat the vegetables, starting with the garlic and onion and followed by the carrot, leek and parsnip. 3. Add the sprigs of thyme and the remaining bay leaf. Season with black pepper. Sweat for roughly 5 minutes, stirring all the time, then add the diced potato. 4. Drain the lamb and immediately add the meat to the vegetables. Cover with the warm stock. Put on the lid and simmer for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally. 62 Senior Times l July - August 2019 l www.seniortimes.ie

I’ve fallen in love with orzo pasta. It’s easy to cook, looks like rice and allows me to cheat and make a poor man’s risotto. This recipe is designed to enable you to cook a tasty dish in fifteen minutes. Serves 4 300 g orzo pasta 6 rashers dry-cured bacon Rapeseed oil 4 cloves of garlic, sliced 2 sprigs of fresh thyme Freshly ground black pepper 3 leaves cabbage/kale 40 g butter 80 ml cream 80 g Parmesan cheese, grated To serve 10 g Parmesan cheese, grated Handful of fresh basil 1. Add the orzo pasta to a pot of boiling water and cook for 8 minutes. 2. While the pasta is cooking, slice the bacon into strips. 3. Heat a drizzle of rapeseed oil in a frying pan then add the garlic followed by the bacon. Cook for a few minutes then drop in the thyme and a sprinkle of black pepper.

Cooking 4. Roll the washed cabbage or kale leaves and shred. Add to the pan and cook for 2 minutes, then add the butter and cream and simmer for 3 minutes. 5. Drain the pasta and add another drizzle of rapeseed oil. Combine the pasta with the bacon and cabbage or kale in the pot. Add the grated Parmesan and lightly stir. 6. Serve in pasta bowls with more Parmesan and some basil leaves sprinkled on top. Brian’s Tip For a slightly spicier dish, replace the bacon with chorizo or try adding some diced red peppers and chopped basil. Lemon Drizzle Cake With Irish Summer Berries Who doesn’t love lemon drizzle cake? Well, believe it or not, it’s actually easier than you might think to create this wonderful treat. During one of my demos I taught a guy who had never baked in his life how to make this cake live on stage at the Taste of Donegal festival. He went home one very happy man! So what are you waiting for, folks? Have a go! Makes one 25 cm round cake

225 g unsalted butter, softened 225 g caster sugar 4 eggs 225 g self-raising flour, sieved Drizzle of vanilla essence Zest of 1 lemon, finely grated For the drizzle topping Juice of 1 lemon 120 g icing sugar To garnish 18 raspberries 10 strawberries 20 redcurrants 1. Preheat the oven to 180 ˚ C/350 ˚ F/Gas Mark 4. Line a 25 cm round tin with parchment paper. 2. In a bowl, beat the butter and caster sugar using an electric mixer until creamy and light in colour. 3. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing between each addition, followed by the sieved flour. Then add the vanilla and lemon zest. Mix well. 4. Spoon the mixture into the tin and bake in the oven for 40–45 minutes. 5. Prepare the drizzle by adding the lemon juice to the icing sugar. 6. Remove the cake from the tin and allow to cool on a wire rack, then drizzle with the icing. Arrange the berries on top. Brian’s Tip Enjoy with a dollop of freshly whipped cream.

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Easy Meatballs Please, please, don’t buy pre-made meatballs – honestly, they only take minutes to make at home and it can be lots of fun if you involve everyone in the process. And don’t even think about buying readymade sauce either! This recipe has everything you need to make your own incredible meatballs. Serves 4 For the sauce Drizzle of rapeseed oil 1 onion, diced 2 cloves of garlic, chopped 1 tsp dried oregano 400 g tinned, chopped tomatoes 50 g tomato puree 500 ml beef stock

For the meatballs Drizzle of rapeseed oil 1 onion, diced 1 clove of garlic, chopped 250 g minced beef 250 g minced pork 1 egg 40 g breadcrumbs 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg To serve Freshly ground black pepper 400 g spaghetti 80 g Parmesan cheese, for grating 5 fresh sage leaves, chopped Senior Times l July - August 2019 l www.seniortimes.ie 63

Cooking 1. To make the sauce, heat a drizzle of oil in a saucepan and sweat the onion with the garlic for 3 minutes. Add the oregano, tomatoes and tomato puree. Add the stock and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. 2. For the meatballs, fry the diced onion and garlic in the oil in a heated frying pan. Add these to a bowl with the minced beef and pork. Combine using your hands and then add the egg and breadcrumbs and season with nutmeg and pepper. Mix well, then add the chopped sage leaves and shape into desired meatball size. 3. In the same frying pan you cooked the onions in, brown the meatballs then transfer them into the sauce. Simmer together for 12 minutes, stirring gently to ensure the meatballs don’t break. 4. Cook the spaghetti in boiling water according to the packet instructions and then drain. Serve in a bowl with meatballs and sauce on top and some grated Parmesan cheese. Pork Chops with Toffee Apple

4. Core the apple, leaving the skin on, and cut into 4 slices. 5. Place the pan you fried the chops in over a medium heat and add the butter. Place the apple slices in the pan and sprinkle with half the brown sugar. Cook for 2 minutes, then turn over and sprinkle the other side with the rest of the sugar. Cook for a further 2 minutes. The sugar will turn a sticky, syrupy consistency. Add the water to the pan and allow the sugar to caramelise. 6. Serve a toffee apple slice on top of each pork chop. Recipes by Brian McDermott from Brian McDermott’s Donegal Table, published by The O’Brien Press.

Win three copies of Brian McDermott’s best-selling Donegal Table!

Pork is one of the most underrated meats available. For years it’s been served overcooked and, unsurprisingly, that’s given it a bad name. When you cook pork properly, you’ll find it’s succulent and tasty. Trust me: served with toffee apple, it’s a treat of a meal in fifteen minutes. Serves 4 4 pork chops Drizzle of rapeseed oil Freshly ground black pepper 4 sprigs of fresh thyme 1 red apple 40 g butter 50 g brown sugar 50 ml water 1. Preheat the oven to 150 ˚ C/300 ˚ F/Gas Mark 2. 2. Brush the pork chops on both sides with oil and season with the black pepper. Add the sprigs of fresh thyme. 3. Heat a frying pan and fry the chops for 3 minutes on each side until they are golden. Transfer them to a tray and place in the warm oven for 4 minutes. 64 Senior Times l July - August 2019 l www.seniortimes.ie

Senior Times, in association with The O’Brien Press are offering three readers copies of Brian McDermott’s best-selling book in this competition. Simply answer this question: How many does Mammy’s Irish Stew serve? Send your entry to: Senior Times Cookery Competition, Unit 1, 15 Oxford Lane, Ranelagh, Dublin 6. Or email to john@slp.ie the first three correct entries drawn are the winners. Deadline for receipt of entries is 15th August.

Western Ways George Keegan on happenings along the Western Seaboard in travel , the arts, food and entertainment

Scattery Island wins second major award The small island of Scattery is situated at the mouth of the Shannon Estuary off the West Clare coastal town of Kilrush. In 2017 this island was selected as one of 18 European destinations to receive the prestigious EDEN (European Destination of Excellence) award held every second year among the 29 member states. Just a couple of months ago the island was to the fore again when Scattery Island Tours received an award for Best Practise in Sustainable Tourism & Implementation. These successes were due in no small way to a group working as one to look after and promote the island – OPW Heritage Services, Scattery Island Tours and Clare Co.Co. The island was an important ecclesiastical centre for hundreds of years, founded by St.Senan in 532. There are 11 main sites to visit. These include the remains of the monastic settlement (round tower, cathedral, six churches and a holy well), plus the deserted village. The post office was established in the 1930’s and the original post box in still visible today. A Visitor Centre has been set up in a restored cottage (free admission) containing a large scale model of the island when it was inhabited. Around the walls are details and facts relating to island life down the years. The last of the island inhabitants left in 1978. Scattery Island tours This family run business began operating daily sailings to the island out of Kilrush just two years ago. The founder was Irene Hamilton whose father Brendan was born on the island. For the first year Irene used a boat for 12 passengers but the business has grown quickly and for this season she acquired a vessel capable of carrying up to 70 people. It has two tables with chairs on the deck, ideal for families or small groups. Irene explains that developing a sustainable tourism model has been at the heart of her business from the very start.

I arrived at the Marina in Kilrush on 1st June a calm warm day perfect for sailing and made my way to the Scattery Island Tours ticket office with some other people also travelling. Martina was inside to greet us and give a quick synopsis of the main sites on the island. A detailed map costing E2 is available and well worth having. She pointed out the excellent black and white photos on the office walls taken in the 1950s by the Limerick Leader newspaper. In one Irene’s father can be seen working on top of a haystack. The journey to the locks which exit the marina took just a few minutes and the whole procedure of going through was very interesting. Then it was full steam ahead to the island. Sailing time was about 15 minutes and all passengers were met by an OPW member of staff who welcomed us before bringing everyone on a free tour lasting an hour. It is worth mentioning passengers on the crossing included several families with small children. The landing pier however is easily managed and the pleasant boat crew offered assistance where needed. There are two main walking trails on the island, one of which takes you to the lighthouse and the 18th C artillery battery. On completion of the tour there is plenty of time to explore or find a spot to sit and relax taking in the surrounding quietness with only the sound of bird song. Scattery Tours operate up to 5 sailings daily in summer months. For full details click on www.scatteryislandtours.com . Scattery Island Visitor Centre & Tours 087 995 8427. Senior Times l July - August 2019 l www.seniortimes.ie 65

Western Ways

Wonders of plant world on display in the Caher Bridge garden If you are a garden enthusiast and travelling to the Banner County anytime soon make sure to find your way to the Caher Bridge garden situated in the heart of the Burren, close to the village of Fanore. This really wonderful garden was created from nothing by Carl Wright an Englishman from Devon who moved to Ireland in 1989. ‘initially when I bought this house along a small road beside the Caher River my only ambition was to re-build it and make it habitable’, Carl points out .’It was completely surrounded by rock and overgrown with hazel so to make a garden I had to start from scratch’. . He began the work 15 years ago and everything was done by hand. He had no real experience but learned as he went along. “It was a real labour of love”, he says. Tons of earth was brought in and hand sifted. From day one he decided to construct a garden sympathetic to the landscape and this he most certainly achieved. He describes it as a ‘Plantsman’s Garden’ and it has expanded greatly in the past 5 years now covering almost 2 acres. During the process Carl became an avid collector of plants from Ireland and around the world. He has 9 species of orchids, over 200 different Irish daffodils, 25 types of Hawthorn and 150 different ferns, some quite rare. I particularly liked the many water features he has established and in particular the stone wall he built shaped in the centre with a circle which blends beautifully with the small bridge crossing the river in front of the house. The weather was good on my visit and there were literally masses of lawn daisies everywhere. On two sections of the garden Carl has created what he calls a ‘Daisy River’ and ‘Daisy Island’. The flowers can last up to 4 months, he explained. The back garden has a completely different landscape style winding its way up a gentle slope. Without doubt for bees and other insects now sadly threatened with extension, this is a haven. 66 Senior Times l July - August 2019 l www.seniortimes.ie

Carl’s garden has featured in many International gardening books and magazines. The amazing work he has carried out, especially in recent years, is becoming widely known ‘people have travelled here from Northern Ireland on a day trip just to visit the garden’, he told me. All visits to the Caher Bridge Garden (open mid March to mid October) need to be pre-booked and everyone who comes must take the guided tour with Carl. However on completion of the tour nobody is rushed to leave and can spend time relaxing and taking in the beauty around them. To book a visit tel 065 70766225.

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Historic attractions

The South Terrace Garden

Hillsborough beckons after a £20 million make-over Lorna Hogg visits the magnificently restored Co Down attraction Hillsborough. For decades the name has symbolised political turmoil and controversy. In to-day’s Ireland however, Hillsborough Castle has a changed role, usage and image. The official home of the Secretaries of State for Northern Ireland has had a £20 million makeover, and is now open to all. Visitors will pass through the State Entrance, in the footsteps of Presidents, politicans, actors, singers - and British royalty, into a remarkable heritage. The estate dates from the 1600s, and the Hill family. Their original home was The Fort, (also open to the public) but the house largely dates from the 1700s. Such houses were often called Castles to create heritage. In 1925 it was sold to the British Government, as a home for the new Governor in a new Ireland. It also bacame a royal residence in Ireland. Now, as Hillsborough takes on another new role, political symbolism is out - and history, Irish art and craft are in, alongside magnificent works from the Royal Collection. Historic Roy al Palaces, who now lease Hillsborough from the Northern Ireland Office, were determined to be as inclusive as possible. They have been in touch with the OPW and Dublin Castle, and have also used top Irish craftspeople in the restoration.

The State Drawing Room

Visitors initially step into the stone flagged Entrance Hall – where a pair of ancient Irish elk antlers, discovered in a bog, sit above the door. The Hall is dominated by another reminder of ancient Ireland - a magnificent bog oak throne chair, presented to Queen Victoria at the 1851 Great Exhibition. Look out for the spades alongside the fireplace, with bands marking dates of royal visits and tree planting - you can follow their progess in the gardens!

68 Senior Times l July - August 2019 l www.seniortimes.ie

In the Ante Room, portraits of King George and Queen Mary, sovereigns of Partition, look across to the visitors’ book, which is regularly signed by their descendents - The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge amongst the most recent. Next door is one of the most beautiful and historic rooms in the house – the Red Dining Room. In the 1980s, the then Secretary of

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LOCATIONS

Clonmel Greyhound Stadium Curraheen Park Greyhound Stadium, Cork Shelbourne Park Greyhound Stadium, Dublin Dundalk Stadium Enniscorthy Greyhound Stadium Galway Greyhound Stadium Kilkenny Greyhound Stadium Lifford Greyhound Stadium Limerick Greyhound Stadium Longford Greyhound Stadium Mulllingar Greyhound Stadium Newbridge Greyhound Stadium Thurles Greyhound Stadium Kingdom Greyhound Stadium, Tralee Kilcohan Park Greyhound Stadium, Waterford Youghal Greyhound Stadium

GO GREYHOUND RACING IRISH GREYHOUND BOARD

For more information visit www.igb.ie

★★★★

OVER 50’S MIDWEEK BREAKS Enjoy a midweek break in Tralee, our Over 50’s breaks include Bed/Breakfast & Dinner each evening and complimentary Tea/Coffee & Scones on arrival.

2019

PACKAGES

January-March & November-December

April 1st-16th 19th-30th May May & October June & September

July & August

2 Dinner, B&B

€107 pps

€113 pps

€ 1 2 9 pps

€150 pps

3 Dinner, B&B

€156 pps

€162 pps

€177 pps

€199 pps

Single Room Supplement

€28 per night

The Rose Hotel, Dan Spring Road, Tralee, Co. Kerry. V92 HKA4. Tel: +353 (0)66 719 9100 | Email: reservations@therosehotel.com

www.therosehotel.com

Historic attractions

The Red Room

State Tom King, a fan of the egalitarianism of a round table for negotiations, introduced the current table during the Belfast/Good Friday initiatives. This is also the room where the Queen first met President McAleese in 2005 – the first time a British monarch had ever met an Irish Head of State on Irish soil. These days, the Red Room, now hung in red damask, is often used for official dinner parties - Prince Charles is fond of entertaining here. Guests are overlooked by a splendid collection of art from the Royal Collection, including works by Van Dyck, and Reynolds. Look for an unusual royal `family album’ in the Bone Miniatures, which form a virtual `frieze’ around the wall. Prince Albert was behind the commissioning of pictures, painted on metal, of all Kings and Queens of Britain from King Edward III. The magnificent Throne Room, newly hung with deep green wall coverings, is one of Hillsborough’s most splendid spaces. The crystal chandeliers were made by Clancy Chandeliers, Dublin, who also were involved with repair works on other lighting. The Thrones, on a dais, overlook a room still used for Investitures and Citizenship ceremonies, as well as receptions and concerts during royal visits. One of visitors’ favourite rooms is the beautiful pillared spacious State Drawing Room. Prince Charles took a keen interest in its wide collection of modern Irish art – one of his own watercolours hangs here. The Royal presence is strong here - increased by the many family photographs, including some of Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis. Curator Dr. Christopher Warleigh-Lack is aware that at short notice, a call may come in that a royal is planning a visit, and the room must be ready for use. Next door is Lady Grey’s Drawing Room – famous as the room where Gerry Adams negotiated during the Peace Talks. Other visitors have included President Bush, Eleanor Roosevelt and former British Prime Minister Tony Blair, and it now is lit by a magnificent

The Ante Room

chandelier, also from Clancy Chandeliers . Hillsborough also has many beautiful `rooms outside.’ Its eighteenth century sylvan 100 acres of landscape contains a famous Moss Walk, plus temples and sweeping vistas. The rhododendron plant is one of the largest in the world, and the famous Rose Garden has had an upgrade. It was created by the Queen’s aunt, Lady Rose Granville, when wife of one of the first Governors. The Queen’s first visit outside the UK in 1945 was here was to her aunt.

grass grow’ when he arrived for few days at The Fort before the Battle of the Boyne. To-day’s visitors can watch the grass – and plants grow, or just enjoy a full day out with friends or family.

There are also plenty of modern touches to keep all ages happy - including new planting and children’s play areas, with water features and steps. One highlight is the restored Walled Garden, recreated under the watchful eye of Prince Charles, who put eight of his Prince’s Foundation apprentices to work on building the new Pavilion. There will be a chance to sample the results of the planting - The Yellow Door catering company will use estate grown produce in the new restaurant. There are also classrooms and creative spaces, to inspire schools and communities.

Mo Mowlam, who first opened the Castle to the public as Secretary of State, loved to relax in the bath. She would often answer urgent phone calls in her bath towel and occasionally let the water overflow. Her stepson particularly liked the Throne Room – for roller skating.

Escorted tours are now available, and specialised ones, including a Royal Tour, Political Tour, Art Tour and LGBT Tour are in hand. There are also plans to open up some of the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland’s old living quarters – a new annexe is being created for current occupants. However, don’t plan on seeing the Royal apartments - they remain out of bounds! On her 2014 Belfast visit, the Queen toured the film set of Game of Thrones, the series which is a top tourist draw. To press disappointment, Her Majesty did not try out the Iron Throne – well, she already has two at Hillsborough. But whilst it may be Game Over for the TV series - is it Hillsborough’s turn be the new Throne in town? Hillsborough highlights.. William of Orange didn’t loiter to enjoy the village, remarking ‘I didn’t come here to let the

70 Senior Times l July - August 2019 l www.seniortimes.ie

The Castle was seriously damaged when fire broke out in 1934, after a careless guard discarded a lit cigarette, after lowering the flag to acknowledge the funeral of German President Hindenburg.

Many resident politicans grew to love Hillsborough. Tom King and Peter Mandelsen became involved in some interior design, and some of Mo Mowlam’s ashes were scattered here at her wish. Look out for the headgear in each room, ranging from a copy of one of the Queen Mother’s hat to a Governor’s plumes, which can be tried on for size, Aspiring princesses will like the copy of the Queen’s ‘Granny Tiara’, a wedding gift to Queen Mary from the girls of Great Britain and Ireland. Opening times Castle opening hours : Daily, excepting 24th –26th December, and planned closures – check the website. April – Oct 9.30 am – 18.00pm. Nov-Mar 9. 30 am – 16.00 pm . Escorted House tours from 10.00am - 16.30 pm. Adult - £11.40 (E13.20 approx.) Child - £ 5.20 (E 6.60 approx.) Garden entry is included in admission ticket. Concessions available https://www.hrp.org.uk

Part-time Courses NUI Certificate Foundation Courses Tel: 01 708 6062 Return to Learning NUI Certificate Courses Tel: 01 708 6062 Addiction Studies Adult & Community Education Community Development & Leadership Creative Writing for Publication Disability Studies Local History Psychology Directing for Theatre

NUI Certificate Modular Programme Tel: 01 708 6062 Culture & Society â&#x2C6;&#x2019; Adult Education,

Anthropology, Sociology & Applied Social Studies

People, Place & Heritage â&#x2C6;&#x2019; History, Geography,

Classics & Nua Ghaeilge

NUI Professional Development Certificate Courses Tel: 01 708 6062 Communication and Group Skills for Managers Equality and Diversity Training and Continuing Education (Train the Trainer) Tel: 087 289 1672 E-mail: adulted.trainthetrainer@nuim.ie

Diploma in Arts: Addiction Studies Adult Guidance, Theory and Practice Tel: 01 708 3752 E-mail: adultguidancecourses@mu.ie

NUI Evening Degree Programme Tel: 01 708 6062 BA Local Studies / BA Community Studies (CAO MH803) E-mail:

evening.degrees@mu.ie

For more information visit : www.maynoothuniversity.ie/ adult-and-community-education

Department of Adult and Community Education Maynooth University

Travel

The other side of Portugal

Mairead Robinson discovers the delights of the Alentejo region Another must-do on your visit to Alentejo is to take a trip up to the village of Monsaraz.

The Irish love Portugal, it is one of our favourite holiday destinations. However when you ask most people where they go and why, they will inevitably tell you The Algarve for golf and sunshine, Lisbon for a fabulous city break, and some have also discovered the lovely town of Porto for a wine cruise experience. But how many people will tell you they have experienced the charm of Alentejo, on the other side of the country? Alentejo makes up 30 per cent of the land mass of Portugal, and yet it is the least populated region. The result is that it is largely unspoiled and perfect for touring around. It is also home to fascinating historic sites – think Evora and Monsaraz – exciting vineyards, luxury hotels, exceptional gastronomic value, invigorating adventure experiences and it is also home to the largest man-made lake in Western Europe. So how easy is it to get there? The answer is that it is surprisingly straightforward with several options. Firstly you land in Lisbon then either hire a car and self-drive – the roads are very good and easy to navigate - and in less than two hours you are in the heart of Alentejo. Should you prefer you can arrange for a driver to collect you and drive you around, it is not prohibitively expensive. Alternatively there is a very good public transport service with several trains departing Lisbon for Evora daily. The intercity bus service is both punctual and reliable with modern air conditioned busses. Lisbon to Evora takes only one and half hours on the bus and a single ticket costs just E11.90 You can get all public transport information on www.rede-expressos.pt And so you arrive in Evora, classified by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, you can visit the Roman Temple, the Cathedral of Santa Maria, several sites and chapels including the fascinating Chapel of Bones. You should stay in Evora for a few days to absorb some of the heritage and while it is a living contemporary city, it has a history dating back more than five millennia. The city is just 80km from the Spanish border and as typical of the interior Alentejo, it is prone to heat extremes, so September and October are the best times to visit. Do make time during your stay to visit the Michelin Dom Joaquim Restaurant – 72 Senior Times l July - August 2019 l www.seniortimes.ie

Evora, classified by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, has many attractions,. Including the Roman Temple, the Cathedral of Santa Maria, several sites and chapels including the fascinating Chapel of Bones.

www.restaurantedomjoaquim.pt – great service, fabulous food and extremely well priced for such quality. Their wine list extends to over twenty-five pages of top Portuguese wines at a fraction of what we would expect to pay here in Ireland. Another must-do on your visit to Alentejo is to take a trip up to the village of Monsaraz, where on a clear day you can see as far as Spain – it is a mere 15 kilometres away. Monsaraz was conquered by the Moors in 1167, and it has a fascinatingly unique history. In 2007 Monsaraz was one of the finalists in the choice of the seven wonders of Portugal. Bring your camera as the tiny streets, beautiful church and quaint buildings are so picturesque and set-in-time. And so to a development that has opened up the whole region to a new world of opportunities – the construction of the Alqueva Dam which gave birth to the largest artificial reservoir of water in Western Europe. It

Travel

Walking is a popular activity in Alentejo

Monsaraz, conquered by the Moors in 1167, has a fascinatingly unique history.

was built with the aim of irrigation for the entire Alentejo area and electric power generation, in addition to other complementary activities. It has opened up huge improvements for the wine and agriculture sectors, and also since 2012 it has created up to twenty thousand jobs for the region directly and indirectly. This billion euro project has changed lives in many varied ways, but perhaps the most poignant is the relocation of a whole village, including even the graveyard, to new areas as old villages ended up submerged under the lake. The village of Luz became submerged on 8th February 2002, when the floodgates of the Alquerva reservoir were closed. The old village had been demolished just before the water rising, an islet of pine trees marking the location today. The village relocation programme involved the construction of 212 homes and the resettling in the new village of public buildings and facilities. At that time, Luz had a population of 363. You can learn all about this and the many other fascinating impacts of this development at the Luz Museum which was designed as part of the measures compensating for the human impact caused by the building of the reservoir. The museum holds archaeological and audiovisual collections and promotes initiatives on the topic of local identity. It is a wonderful visitor attraction and should be included on your itinerary. www.museudaluz.org.pt

you move deeper into the region you might want to stay at a beautiful exclusive country house and spa, Monte da Estrela, whose charming hosts, the Farrancha family have created a luxury escape consisting of just seven rooms (there will soon be nine) where total relaxation is the order of the day. It is situated in the exclusive Dark Sky area, where shooting stars and a bright clear lunar landscape can be experienced as you enjoy wonderful food and even wine from their own cellar. They will organize a car to collect and return you to Lisbon airport if you wish, and also to drive you around to visit some of the attractions in the area. While I have enjoyed several excellent hotels in the Alentejo region, Monte da Estrelaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s warm personality stands out from the rest. www. montedaestrela.pt And finally while staying there, if you fancy some adventure on the lake, you can go canoeing at night to see that special dark sky or try your hand at paddle boarding. There are also some great walking trails you can head off on, complete with a guide and a picnic. More details of these activities on www.alentejobreak.com There is a lot more to Portugal than you might think!

While Alentejo has many fine hotels and accommodation offerings, as

For more information go to Visit Portugal (www.visitportugal.com) and Alentejo (www.visitalentejo.pt). TAP Air Portugal operates twice daily Dublin to Lisbon flights. Prices start at E96 return including all taxes. For further information visit www.fltap.com or call (01) 6569162 Senior Times l July - August 2019 l www.seniortimes.ie 73

Travel in style with Platinum Services Platinum Services, offers a 24 hour private terminal at Dublin Airport, with on-demand services to meet an individual’s needs before and after your flight. This luxury, private terminal is open 24/7 with a dedicated team on hand to ensure passengers’ receive the VIP treatment from the moment they arrive at Dublin Airport. Your departure – drive directly to our exclusive on-site car park where you will be greeted by a member of our Platinum Services team. As you relax in the comfort of a private suite, the staff will take care of all your luggage and check in procedures, allowing you to enjoy our food menu. When it is time to depart, the staff will accompany you through their private security screening area. From here, you will be escorted directly to your aircraft in one of the luxury BMW vehicles.

facilities - offering safe, convenient private on-site parking for the duration of your trip . On arrival the team will take care of everything from check in, luggage and boarding cards. - ideal for travellers who wish to avoid long distances and waiting times. For further information email platinumservices@dublinairport.com

Your Arrival – A member of the team will be there to greet you as you step off your aircraft and will bring you to your own private chauffeur driven BMW. You will then be guided through our priority Immigration channel and on to your own Platinum suite, private suite and refreshments, shower facilities and porter assistance for luggage retrieval

Platinum Services Suite Arrivals Road, Terminal 1 Dublin Airport Tel 01 8144895

They will also look after your baggage and all other formalities allowing you to relax, refresh and prepare for your next engagement. Passengers can also avail of the DAA Platinum Services car parking

Visit www.dublinairport.com/at-the-airport/travel-services/ platinum-services

Hotel Westport announce their Over 50’s holiday programme Hotel Westport and Westport House have spent the past couple of months working on resort enhancements and with all this work underway, they are now set to launch their anticipated midweek activity programme for over 50’s for the autumn and winter season. They promise to offer a wide and varied choice of interesting, informative and exciting activity breaks and specific mid-week themed breaks, designed to make your stay even more enjoyable and informal These events include: Sunday, September 15th-Friday 20th, Golf Weeks, with 2 days golf in Westport Golf Club and 1 days golf in Ballinrobe Golf Club, fantastic prizes and Yogalates sessions. Sunday, 29th September – Friday, 4th October, Positive Ageing, Wellness & Yoga with 3 or 5 night stay bed and breakfast options with health assessment, yoga sessions, cycling the Greenway and grow your own garden demos with Westport’s gardening team. Sunday, 13th – Friday, 18th October and Sunday, 3rd – Friday, 8th November, Bridge Weeks with professional bridge tutor. There is a week suitable for all levels of players from absolute beginners, to beginners and improvers and refreshers throughout the year.

Sunday, 20th-Friday, 25th October, Spirit & Soul of Mayo hosted by James Kilbane with dinner each evening and farewell banquet, plus walking tours of Westport christian churches, heritage and spiritual tour of the locality, organised activities such as spa and cookery demos plus meditation and christian mindfulness. Retirement Planning Weekend will run 15th & 16th November with sessions to include changes in retirement, healthy living and social welfare entitlements. Pre-Christmas Extravaganza weeks will also run from Sunday 17th-22nd Nov, Sunday 24th-29th and Sunday 1st-Friday 6th December with an extensive programme of daily events, interactive race night, fun and games with Santa and Mrs. Clause plus a whole offering of self-guided winter walks and discount for entry into Westport House to see their splendid decorations.

For full details on the over 50’s programmes and bookings please visit www.hotelwestport.ie or T: 098 25122 E: reservations@hotelwestport.ie for assistance. www.westporthouse.ie www.hotelwestport.ie 74 Senior Times l July - August 2019 l www.seniortimes.ie

So who are Ireland’s Love Club? We are a team of experienced professionals from all walks of life and we have come together on a nationwide pursuit to unify you with your forever someone. We offer a supportive environment and we are with you every step of the way.

IRELANDS LOVE CLUB.ie A revolutionary approach to dating – where together, we will create the platform that will change dating forever We, at Ireland’s Love Club, know that meeting potential partners can be daunting and for some, find it hard to create the opportunities to meet their forever someone in this busy world that we live in today. Times have changed and so have we. We know that time is precious and that finding true love is nearly impossible if you’re not constantly socializing 24/7 or confident enough to use online dating as your only tool, and that’s where we differ. It is our goal to take the stress out of dating and create a platform where all you have to do is sign up, turn up and have some fun in a safe environment, supported by us.

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Your dream team includes Lisa, Nicole, Gerard and Frances. Lisa & Nicole, co-owners of The Wellness Centre in Westport are trained to eradicate any anxiety, stress or confidence issues related to dating and relationships. They will work to empower you and get you to where you want to be personally and ready to face the dating world. Gerard, one of Ireland’s leading event managers, will create outstanding, romantic, fun-filled event nights and weekends. Frances, our approachable administrator, will nurture you through the enrolling process.

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Genealogy

Tracing your Derry- Londonderry ancestors: A three-step guide

Genealogist Brian Mitchell advises Background There are 46 parishes in County Londonderry (also known as Derry). You can identify the civil parishes of County Derry, and their associated townlands, at https://www.johngrenham. com/places/civil_index.php by selecting Derry on the map. To gain insight into the economic and social landscape of 19th century Ireland you can consult A Topographical Dictionary of Ireland, published in 1837, by Samuel Lewis. Arranged in alphabetical order by parishes, towns and villages this book can be viewed online at http://www.libraryireland.com/ topog/placeindex.php. An excellent starting point for surname research is the ‘Surname Search’ option at https://www.johngrenham. com/surnames where you can explore the location, frequency and history of Irish surnames. Research Steps Step 1 - Search 1901 and 1911 Census Returns Although census enumerations were carried out every decade from 1821, the earliest surviving complete return for County Derry is that of 1901. The census enumerations of 1901 and 1911, arranged by townland in rural areas and by street in urban areas, can be searched, for free, at www.census.nationalarchives.ie. These returns will list the names, ages and place of birth of all members in a household.

Nailors Row 1940’s

Step 2 – Search for births, marriages and deaths Civil registration of births, deaths and Roman Catholic marriages in Ireland began on 1st January 1864 while non-Catholic marriages were subject to registration from 1st April 1845. Prior to the commencement of civil registration of births, marriages and deaths in Ireland, family history researchers usually rely on baptismal, marriage and burial registers kept by churches.

76 Senior Times l July - August 2019 l www.seniortimes.ie

With civil registration of births and deaths commencing in 1864, and with the patchy survival of church records prior to 1820, gravestone inscriptions can be a vital source for family historians. The database of Derry Genealogy, at www. derry.rootsireland.ie, should now be examined as it contains the bulk of pre-1922 civil birth and marriage registers for the city and county

Have you seen the

The Irish Gardenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new look?

A cover-to-cover re-fit of the design of the magazine has been carried out, retaining all your favourite articles, with new features and travel abroad. The Irish Garden is Ireland's best-selling gardening magazine, packed with timely information, written by Irish gardeners for Irish gardeners!

Genealogy

Old Town around early 1930’s

of Derry, the early baptismal and marriage registers of 85 churches (the earliest being the registers of St Columb’s Cathedral in Derry city, dating from 1642) and gravestone inscriptions from 117 graveyards. Derry City Cemetery was opened in 1853 and for the following hundred years, until the early 1960s, it was the main burial place for both Protestants and Catholics in the city. Owing to a community volunteer project organised by Derry City and Strabane District Council a database of 36,000 entries transcribed from the burial registers of Derry City Cemetery, dating from 1853 to 1924, can be searched at www.derrystrabane.com/Subsites/Museums-and-Heritage/City-Cemetery-Records-Project. The burial registers of Derry City Cemetery provide a level of detail that no death certificate records. In addition to name, date of death, age and residence, the registers asked for names of parents and birth place of deceased and provide a burial reference which means all grave plots/headstones can be located by family historians and relatives. Microfilm copy of church registers can be examined, at no charge, in the Public Record Office of Northern Ireland in Belfast. Their Guide To Church Records, which can be accessed on their website at https://www.nidirect.gov. uk/publications/proni-guide-church-records, lists, in alphabetical order by civil parish, church registers of all denominations for most parishes in Ulster and their commencement dates, together with their microfilm reference details.

‘Historic’ Civil Records of births 1864-1916, marriages 1870-1921 and deaths 1878-1921 can now be searched and viewed at www. irishgenealogy.ie. On searching index, which returns name, event type, year and name of Superintendent Registrar’s District, a pdf of the full register page in which that birth, marriage or death certificate appears can be downloaded by selecting ‘image’. You can also search and view ‘historic’ civil records of births, marriages and deaths for Northern Ireland at GRONI Online, by purchasing credits, of births (over 100 years old), marriages (over 75 years old) and deaths (over 50 years old) on the website of the General Register Office of Northern Ireland at https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/services/gogroni-online. Step 3 – Search Census Substitutes Church registers of baptisms and marriages with their ability to build and confirm family links are viewed as the building blocks of family history. However, in terms of their value in tracing 17th and 18th century ancestors in Derry, they are frequently irrelevant owing to their non-existence. There are no surviving Roman Catholic registers in County Derry prior to 1822. Fourteen Church of Ireland parishes (from 53) and three Presbyterian congregations (from 65) have baptism, marriage or burial registers predating 1800. Quite often the only realistic strategy in tracing ancestors beyond church registers is to examine surviving census returns and census

78 Senior Times l July - August 2019 l www.seniortimes.ie

substitutes, often compiled by civil parish, for any references to a surname or given name of interest. There are a number of census substitutes – such as 1630 Muster Roll, 1663 Hearth Money Rolls, 1740 Protestant Householders Lists, 1766 Religious Census, 1796 Flax Growers Lists, early-19th century Tithe Books, 1831 census abstract, and mid-19th century Griffith’s Valuation – which can be searched for County Derry to confirm the presence of the family name. The problem with these sources is that they name heads of household only; hence they provide insufficient information to confirm the nature of linkages between named people in these sources. Census substitutes, however, are very useful in confirming the presence of a family name in a particular townland and/or parish, and in providing some insight into the frequency and distribution of surnames. For County Derry, Griffith’s Valuation of 1858/1859 can be searched at www. askaboutireland.ie/griffith-valuation while many of the other sources can be searched either at www.derry.rootsireland.ie or www. billmacafee.com. Although such sources will confirm the presence of a name and/or surname of interest they will not confirm if there is a connection between people with the same surname! Brian Mitchell is Director of the Derry Genealogy Service . For more information email: genealogy@derrystrabane.com

Age awareness DCU President Brian Mac Craith at Age Action's Silver Surfer Awards supported by DCU.

Silver Surfer support latest DCU Age-Friendly University initiative Lochlainn Walsh reports In 2012 DCU established the concept and principles of an Age-Friendly University and became the world’s first officially designated Age-Friendly University leading a global network which has grown to over 52 universities representing North America, Europe, and South East Asia. Over the next thirty years, the total number of people in Ireland aged 65 years and older will more than double and the number of those aged over 85 years to quadruple. These demographic changes present significant implications, and DCU’s leadership role in preparing society to meet the challenges and opportunities of this ageing demographic has led to the development of the Age-Friendly University Initiative. This sets a strategic direction to respond to the opportunities and challenges of ageing through its research agenda. Ageing-related research with particular emphasis on the impact of intergenerational and life-long learning; the health effects of physical activity; dementia; technology to support ‘ageing in place’, and preventative medicine are vital areas of interest. Embracing ageing through increased participation and visibility of older people on campus provides us with opportunities to challenge stereotypes, engage in authentic intergenerational exchange, mentoring, and invites older people to interact with our research and prepare our traditional students to inform their ageing process. Opportunities in DCU DCU’s Age-Friendly Programme offers a range of health, sports, cultural, social and educational opportunities. Participants can undertake an 8week module from a broad range of topics from our undergraduate programme without the need to sit exams or take assignments. These run from September – December and January to May. Also, our Love of Lifelong Learning Programme offers eight-week modules in, for example, Life Writing, Genealogy, Digital Photography and free basic computer classes. We also provide

opportunities through our DCU Connected Programme for those interested in online learning at their own pace. The Active for Life Programme hosted in the DCU Sports Centre hosts over 600 older people on campus per week to take part in a supervised exercise programme to promote active and healthy ageing.

95 year-old Florence McGillicuddy from Rathfarnham, in Dublin, is the overall Age Action Silver Surfer Award winner of 2019. Florence who blogs on GrandadOnline.com was presented with his award in recognition of his contribution to community life through his use of technology, at the ceremony at DCU,

DCU provides free online training for those working in the leisure, financial services, and retail industry on dealing with people with Dementia, and we support those caring for a loved one with Dementia.

Retirement” launching in 2020 will provide participants with a blueprint for the next phase of their life transitioning from work to retirement.

There are over a thousand older people in our Love of Lifelong Learning Association (3LLS) who meet for special interest lectures and social occasions. Supporting the national ageing through collaboration Through the AFU Initiative, working with national organisations representing older people reflects out our commitment to ageing by hosting the Irish Senior Citizens Parliament on our All Hallows Campus and over the past year has supported Third Age and more recently Age Action’s Silver Surfer Awards.

On Friday, September 13th, the annual Taste of DCU 2019 will take place in the School of Nursing and Human Science so come and join us as a student for a day. For more information on this visit https://tasteofdcu2019.eventbrite.ie Engaging with a university presents opportunities to make new friends, engage the mind, body and spirit and widens your horizons. So don’t delay, pick up the phone or check out the website today – a new world is waiting for you.

DCU is young research intensive, globally engaged university with a pioneering spirit. DCU pioneered the Access Programme providing opportunities for students experiencing disadvantage to attend third level and its third-year placement in the industry ensures our students are job ready leaving higher education. DCU’s innovative approach to harness the expertise of the higher education sector to address our rising demographic again demonstrates this pioneering spirit.

Over 50 Modules in which you can This event was supported by a number of to take an exam or assessment. S and January to May, these eightcompanies including Epic , Doro Phones, weekly across our campuses in Dr Innocent, Acorn, Senior Times magazine, Our Love of Lifelong Learning Pro 50 Plus Expos , DCU the host venue towith themodules in Life Writing, Gen Psychology, and FREE Computer awards

Future Activities A newly formed Choir will commence meeting in September to sing together informally and a pilot retirement course “Pathways beyond

For further information contact: Christine.okelly@dcu.ie Tel: (01) 700 8933 www: dcu.ie/age-friendly

Why not come and join us, at Dub first designated Age-Friendly Un network of Age Friendly Universit

Our unique Lifelong Learning Ass connected, informed and offers s social opportunities.

Join us for our Taste of DCU on Fr experience a day in the university

For further79 information, or to be a Senior Times l July - August 2019 l www.seniortimes.ie list, please contact:

Christine O’Kelly, Age-Friendly Coordinator

Creative Writing Eileen Casey

Scoring high This edition sees Senior Times celebrate 20 years bringing its readership up to the minute information on a range of leisure, economic and lifestyle matters. As a creative individual, charged to report on all things literary and artistic, what better way to evaluate a country’s creative health than to attend an Áras an Uachtaráin garden party celebrating Bloomsday? When President Higgins and his wife Sabina organise a themed garden party (a tradition begun by President Hyde), it’s not just so folks can have an enjoyable afternoon, listening to top class musicians, hearing illuminating prose or poetry, eating mouth-watering nibbles and generally feeling pampered. It’s all these and more of course but the main function of the parties is to honour and celebrate the work of people and organisations striving to create a fairer, more inclusive Ireland. One of President Higgins’ themes (which reflect his remit for his second term) is encapsulated in ‘citizen action, democratic participation and sustainable development.’ Writers were present at the Bloomsday event (Platform One, a South Dublin based group to which I belong) but the majority of the guests were involved in TV and film production. Having a poet and an actress in the Áras, bodes well for curating creative treasure. In keeping with all matters Joycean for Bloomsday, guests were treated to extracts from Ulysses which again reaffirmed the genius of a man who was not only a world renowned writer but who also had the gift of ‘song’ (Joyce is quoted as saying that he saw a page of writing as sheet music). Actors Margaret Twoomey and Eileen Fennell recited the Dublinese that Joyce’s musical ear captured so well, splashing his wit in nonsensical rhymes that have lost none of their shine. Gertie McDowell’s monologue on Dollymount Strand brought the (octagonal) room down. When we left that wonderful experience, we went out onto the lawn to hear Jimmy Higgins & Jazz friends. Also playing was the Cardonagh Brass Band, toe tapping, blood rising stuff. We wanted to dance but managed to curb our instincts. It was too early in the day. Besides, there were photo opportunities to avail of, especially as the resident Bernese Mountain dogs Bród (‘pride’) and Síoda (shadow) were only too eager to not only face the music but also to face the cameras. The President’s speech (when we had wined and dined in the comfort of a splendid

Eileen Casey offers an Irish literary retrospective over the past 20 years by David Caffrey, such forensic depiction of life in the ‘raw’ has now reached cult status.

Susan Condon, Eileen Casey, and Doreen Duffy in the drawing room at Áras.

marquee with chandeliers) didn’t disappoint. Who better knows the creative health of the nation? Although Ulysses (the book which gives provenance to Bloomsday) focuses on a particular day (16th June, 1904), it provides an annual opportunity to celebrate ‘the great talent of so many creative citizens who do so much to enhance the culture of our society.’ Tribute was paid to Deirdre O’Connell, founder of The Focus Theatre which opened in 1967 and closed on April 30, 2012. O’Connell, an Irish American actor founded the theatre with her husband Luke Kelly from The Dubliners. It had been at the forefront of training actors and directors immersed in Stanislavski’s system. Several noted actors began their training there, actors such as Gabriel Byrne, Sabina Coyne (wife of President Higgins), Tom Hickey, Bosco Hogan among others. It was good to see the return of Tom Hickey later on in the afternoon’s programme, reading a piece from Beckett. A wonderful actor, unfortunately he’s been struck down by illness but can still command presence and respect. He’s one of our finest. I saw him in the Civic, Tallaght some years ago performing The Gallant John Joe (written by Tom McIntyre) an earth shattering interpretation which showcased both writer and performer’s considerable talent. During his address, President Higgins made the point that society today is very different from the culture out of which Ulysses is written. Indeed, in my view, it is out of contemporary culture that much of our artistic material comes. Looking back over a timeframe of twenty years, this point bears out. When you consider dramas such as Love/Hate (20102014), written by Stuart Carolan and directed

80 Senior Times l July - August 2019 l www.seniortimes.ie

Set against a backdrop when Celtic Tiger success stories hit the hard times in recession struck Dublin, the writing has been described as ‘ground-breaking’. It’s my personal belief that if Joyce were alive today, he wouldn’t flinch at our drug-ridden and violent society but would bring his customary intelligence and insights on human nature to the work. I can’t help wondering what Joyce might make of The Game of Thrones, a global phenomenon spawned by George R.R. Martin’s series of books A Song of Ice and Fire? I think he’d have enjoyed the twists and turns which were based on the foibles of human nature of which Joyce was no stranger. President Higgins made reference to the world of film and television as having a ‘rich history, peopled by a talented and intrepid community who push boundaries, transform the way we view the world, enable us to reclaim and understand our past, provoke debate, stir our neglected imagination and challenge our perceptions’. Space won’t permit an in-depth exploration of Irish films over the last twenty years but one that remains in my memory is Glassland (2014) featuring Jack Reynor. His breakthrough role in What Richard Did (based on Kevin Power’s Bad Day in Blackrock’, 2008), garnered him rave reviews and Glassland underscored that success. Reynor plays a taxi driver in his early twenties in Dublin, living a melancholy life with his alcoholic mother. Glassland could be described also as a ‘recession’ film. Director Gerard Barrett does a fine job infusing scenes with ‘leaden dread’. It’s worth noting that when President Higgins became Minister for Arts, Culture and the Gaeltacht, it was his privilege to re-establish An Bord Scannán in 1993. Bord Scannán na hEireann/The Irish Film Board ‘made a significant and indeed, crucial contribution to Irish film making culture and activity.’ Screen Ireland were responsible for video montage which played while President Higgins spoke and it was good to be able to see performers on screen, especially for those further back (as we were) from the main stage. I guess it’s fair to say that a highlight of the Bloomsday Garden Party performances, for me at any rate, was The Triest Ensemble. They lent an air of globalism with so many Irish musicians and they created a balance and a connection to Joyce’s work. Their programme was inspired

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Creative Writing

Glassland

Donal Ryan’s The Spinning Heart (2014)

by music Joyce himself favoured. Other highlights were Brenda Mc Sweeney’s performing an excerpt from Joyce’s The Dead which was followed by Noel O’Grady’s singing The Last Rose of Summer. Poignant and thought provoking while at the same time being familiar, intrinsically Irish. One can’t but be given pause for thought when the value of creativity is articulated so well, especially by someone who commands so much respect as President Michael D. Higgins. Now we are in an age where anything is possible, where it’s okay to dream of being a film star or a director or producer. Of writing the next big seller or the poem that captures the heart of the nation. Here in Ireland, there’s so much talent, for such a small nation. It’s mind boggling really. Looking back over a prolific output of novels, again I’m struck by their diversity and technical range. And again, born out of our cultural fears/anxieties. Emma Donoghue’s Room (2010) explores the aftermath of a mother and son who escape a number of years of captivity in a small room. Colm Toíbín’s Brooklyn (2009) is close to the bone for anyone whose daughter (or son) goes to USA to live and work. Leaving a small town world behind for the big city is daunting at the best of times but overseas emigration has left its mark on the national psyche. Donal Ryan’s The Spinning Heart (2014), captures the dangerous tensions which emerge after Ireland’s financial collapse. Critical praise for the book is lavish but not without foundation. The Spinning Heart ‘speaks for contemporary Ireland like no other novel. Wry, vulnerable, alltoo-human, it captures the language and spirit of rural Ireland and with uncanny perception articulates the words and thoughts of a generation.’ The short story form appeared in many publications (again, too numerous to detail) but Faber & Faber’s offering in 2015 All Over Ireland must be mentioned. Including one of my own short stories Beneath Green Hills and edited by Deirdre Madden, the anthology is a gem, including masters of the form such as Colm Toíbín and Eoin McNamee (among others) with new writers such as Lucy Caldwell and Selina Guinness (among others). The more I delve into our cultural diversity over the last twenty years, the more I realise it’s a very deep container. On a sadder note, the recent passing of Philomena Lynott who campaigned unstintingly to keep Phil Lynott’s

Emma Donoghue’s Room (2010)

memory alive. For a whole generation, Phil Lynott’s music backdropped growing up in Ireland in the 70s and 80s. Over Christmas 2018, RTE showed Old Town, a documentary about Phil’s rise to fame. It’s an absolute masterpiece, evoking time, place and of course, the magic of Phil. To see him swagger down Grafton Street, tall and rangy, was some sight. I had the pleasure of seeing him and his band in Tullamore, many, many years ago, a memory that lingers still. If Joyce recreated Dublin so much so that if ever anything happened the city, it could be rebuilt using Ulysses, then Phil Lynott’s Old Town is the modern (if abbreviated) version of the city, certainly in terms of geography. When I came to South Dublin from the Midlands in the late 70s, it’d be fair to say that there wasn’t much happening in the county. Back then, creative people were trying to raise families, largely in an area where there wasn’t much infrastructure. No libraries, no art centres, no theatres, no cinema. Indeed, it was a challenging time but one we overcame by ‘doing’. Since then, over the last twenty years, along with the development of up to the minute magazines such as Senior Times, South Dublin has enjoyed a creative renaissance; a thriving annual book festival (The Red Line), an arts centre equal to none (Rua Red) and a County Council more than willing to facilitate the artists within the community. One of the very first poetry in public places exhibitions I ever held was Poetry on the Wall, a South Dublin Library initiative (2000). Since then, arts organisations in the county and indeed, in local authorities all over the country, are stepping up to the (creative) plate and providing funding and opportunities on a democratic basis.

Magic in glass from Alison Lowry The politicisation of art ensures that bold statements and subject matter which shouldn’t be forgotten, reaches the forefront of consciousness. An exhibition well worth a visit is Alison Lowry’s A Dressing Our Hidden Truths at our National Museum (Collins Barracks, Benburb Street). Lowry is a glass artist living and working from her studio in County Down. In 2009 she graduated from Ulster University with a first class Honours degree in art and design. Since then, she’s won several prestigious awards and prizes. This current exhibition is

82 Senior Times l July - August 2019 l www.seniortimes.ie

Colm Toíbín’s Brooklyn (2009)

All Over Ireland (2015)

based primarily on Lowry being inspired by such traumatic narratives as the Tuam Mother and Baby Home, Industrial Schools and Ireland’s former Magdalene Laundry System.

The Cardigan by Connie Roberts and Alison Lowry. Photographer Peter Maloney

A walk through the exhibition is an experience unique to each individual but being able to depict sexual assault, and other horrifying revelations about inhumanity in an Irish context, requires truth and subtlety in equal measure. Lowry’s technique of pâte de verre (pressing glass powders or frits into a mould, a detailed and difficult form of kiln casting) creates a luminous effect. Visually also, it appears that objects shown in this way are ‘wet’, clearly symbolic of tears and a feeling of being underwater. It’s exquisite in its execution and intent and although Irish at source, it is universal in its reach. The exhibition also features a video ( which shows performance artist Jayne Cherry wearing a pair of cast glass sculpted high-heeled slippers) creating a stark depiction of domestic violence. The images shown here go some way towards highlighting Lowry’s vision but I cannot recommend viewing highly enough. A catalogue with full explanation of the exhibition is available in the museum’s gift shop,( photography throughout courtesy of Peter Maloney).

Alison Lowry is a glass artist living and working from her studio in County Down.

Health

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Cold hands and feet anyone? Tinnitus, dizziness, and poor concentration are just some of the problems that are typically caused by poor circulation. But there is more. Walkinginduced leg pain can also be a result of having an insufficient flow of blood through the legs. And then there is the problem with cold hands and feet, which many people suffer from.

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Philantrophy

The Link between The Congo and Community Philanthropy in Monaghan This photo includes Corporal Séamus McDermott (2nd from left) and his good friend Trooper Edward Gaffney (2nd from right) from Camolin, Co Wexford who was killed on 13th Sept. 1961. County Monaghan Fund Members presenting cheque for E6,000 to Claire Whelan DCU Front Michael Treanor, Chairperson, Claire Whelan DCU, Séamus McDermott CMF

Niall O’Sullivan explains County Monaghan is the fifth smallest of the Republic's 26 counties in area and fourth smallest by population – it has just over 60,000 residents. It is the smallest of Ulster's nine counties in size and also the smallest in terms of population. Monaghan is also a proud county, proud of its industry, its landscape and of course it has been one of the leading football counties over the last decade. In 2018 Monaghan was the only county to beat the mighty Dubs in the national league or championship and did so again in 2019 in the league. One of the county’s ardent supporters is Seamus McDermott. Séamus enlisted in the Defence Forces in 1957 and trained in the Army Apprentice School in Devoy Barracks, Naas where he qualified as a carpenter and joiner. After his apprenticeship he served with 4th Field Company, Corps of Engineers in Custume Barracks, Athlone. He volunteered for service overseas and in June 1961 he went to the Congo with the 35th Infantry Battalion. The 35th Battalion was the first group of Irish Soldiers to be involved in full scale military action against a modern equipped army whose armoury included modern armour cars, anti-tank guns and a jet fighter. In August and September 1961 Séamus took part in Operation Rampunch, in which the UN arrested and deported a large number of mercenaries, and Operation Morthor which erupted into open warfare between the UN and the Mercenary led Katangan Gendarmerie troops loyal to the Katangese Prime Minister Moise Tshombe. Three of Séamus’s comrades, Trooper Edward Gaffney, Corporal Michael Nolan and Trooper Patrick Mullins were killed .and several others were injured in this operation. Probably the best known action that the 35th Battalion was involved in was when their ‘A’ Company was involved in what became known as the famous Siege of Jadotville, about which a full length film was made and is available on Netflix. Seamus joined the teaching profession in 1965 as a teacher of woodwork and technical graphics before qualifying as a guidance counsellor. For 32 years he worked as a guidance counsellor and woodwork Teacher in Beech Hill College in Monaghan town. Séamus became Director of Monaghan Education Centre in 1998. Seamus was one of the early supporters of the idea for an independent philanthropic fund for his county. Co Monaghan is unique in Ireland in having established a county fund. Key areas supported have been: • Health: provision of defibrillators throughout the county and the training of 2,000 people in their use. • Education: the Fund has been supporting young Monaghan people to attend DCU by providing scholarships to students who would not otherwise be able to attend. E54,000 has been donated for this purpose thus far. • Enterprise education and projects in local schools. All 11 of Monaghan’s secondary schools took part in the 2018 competition with most of the 84 Senior Times l July - August 2019 l www.seniortimes.ie

Schools having winners in some of the many categories available. Among those involved in the fund are well-known local businessmen, Frank Cosgrove, Cathal McCarthy, Robert Moffett, Martin McVicar, Maurice Moffett, Robert Wilson, Paddy Gollogly, Siobhan McCormick, Michael Treanor and Brendan McAree. Francis McCarron, who’s original idea it was, works in the community and voluntary sector in the county and also remains as one of the driving forces of the fund. I volunteer with The Community Foundation for Ireland and I am hopeful that people in other counties will follow the spirit and innovation of Monaghan in setting up a fund for their county. To find out more about The County Monaghan Fund see https://www.communityfoundation.ie/ giving/case-studies/the-county-monaghan-fund . To find out more about how you can support The County Monaghan Fund in your will or to help today or indeed to help establish another county fund, please contact me on 01 874 7354 or by email nosullivan@foundation.ie. www.communityfoundation.ie

Older Person’s Fund for Ireland Where there’s a will there’s an … opportunity - to do something amazing! The Community Foundation for Ireland stands for a fair, caring and vibrant Ireland for now and the future and has been supporting projects for older people and much more in Ireland since 2001.

Will you consider including the Older Person’s Fund at The Community Foundation for Ireland in your will? To find out more, call Niall on 01 874 7354 or go to www.communityfoundation.ie/impacts/older-people Other funds supported by wills include the Arts, Environment, Women’s and Children and Young People Funds. www.communityfoundation.ie

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35°C 30°C 25°C 20°C 15°C 10°C 5°C

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Days Out

Glasnevin Cemetery Museum& Guided Tours - All Human Life is Here Take a short bus ride from the city centre to Glasnevin Cemetery – a seemingly unlikely place to visit but an absolute treasure trove of information about the history of Ireland. Opened in 1832, Glasnevin is a Victorian Garden Cemetery and is Ireland’s National cemetery. Located only 2.5km from the bustling city centre, Glasnevin is a peaceful oasis in urban Dublin. The cemetery encapsulates the history of Ireland and is the burial place of over 1.6 million people including an abundance of iconic historical figures. Arriving at Glasnevin offers visitors a wonderful surprise – many expect a dull, morose, possibly even depressing cemetery visit, however from the moment they arrive, it is evident that this is far from the case! The combination of architecture, iconography, the spectacular O’Connell tower, mature indigenous trees, wildlife, the beautifully manicured landscaping and sheer vastness of ornate monuments speckled over 124 acres is eye catching and awe inspiring. Glasnevin is a goldmine for genealogists, history-buffs and anyone with an interest in Irish history. There are more people ‘at rest’ in Glasnevin than there are living residents in the whole of Dublin City! Ireland’s vast and fascinating history is dissected via immensely enjoyable historical anecdotes by knowledgeable and charming guides who take you on a journey to visit the graves of Ireland’s heroes. Visit the gravesides of Michael Collins, Eamon De Valera, Daniel O’Connell, Maud Gonne, Countess Markievicz, to name only a few. Glasnevin offers a window into Irish history, and the tours are filled with wry stories that bring it to life. Include a trip to the museum afterwards and it’s clear that to leave Dublin without visiting Glasnevin would be a grave mistake!

Daily Guided Tours The General History Tour visits the gravesides of the inspirational figures that shaped the Ireland we know today including Michael Collins, Eamon De Valera, Charles Stewart Parnell, Daniel O’Connell, Grace Gifford, Maud Gonne and Countess Markievicz. This tour runs at 11:30am and 2:30pm daily, with additional tours running during the summer months. The Dead Interesting Tour offers an alternative view of the varied heritage that Ireland's largest cemetery holds and the history within its walls. Learn of its sculpture, symbolism, architecture, sporting heroes, natural life and the lesser known stories of extraordinary lives and extraordinary events. This tour runs at the weekends and on Bank Holiday Mondays at 1:00pm. The O’Connell Tower The cemetery’s founder, legendary Irish statesman Daniel O’Connell is buried in an ornate crypt beneath the spectacular O’Connell Tower, the tallest of its kind in Ireland, standing at 180ft. Following a bombing in 1971, the tower has been restored to its former glory and is now accessible to visitors. Climb the 198 steps to spectacular views of Dublin, Wicklow and the Irish Sea. W: www.glasnevinmuseum.ie T: +353 (0)1 882 6550 E: museum@glasnevintrust.ie Group Bookings: booking@glasnevintrust.ie Opening Hours: April – September: 10am - 6m October – March: 10am – 5pm

Belleek Pottery Visitor Centre Award Winning Visitor Attraction

Belleek Pottery Visitor Centre is a memorable experience, like no other. An award winning tourist attraction, we are Ireland’s oldest working pottery. As one of Northern Ireland’s most recognised tourist attractions, visitors and locals continue to flock to the visitor centre. What makes the visitor experience most interesting for those who visit is the combined presentation of industrial heritage, design and craftsmanship. Belleek Pottery Tour: On tour, visitors can see behind the scenes of factory life and get a close up on how this fine china has been produced since 1857. Begin your visit with an interactive guided tour. Visitor Centre Guides will take you on a 30 minute pottery tour where you will see the 16 steps of how this world famous product is created. Some of the skills demonstrated, you will see moulding, flowering, painting and basket weaving. You will also have the opportunity to see the Belleek craftsmen and women at work highlighting the skill involved in every process. Visitor participation is encouraged throughout the tour, glazing product and breaking pieces that do not meet the required standard. Our Audio Visual Theatre adds an additional dimension to the Belleek Experience, telling the story of the founding fathers of Belleek Pottery, available in 7 languages: English, French, Italian, German, Dutch, Japanese and Chinese. Musuem & Exhibitions: The Belleek Museum houses hundreds of pieces of Belleek dating back to the very beginning in 1857. One very special exhibition is ‘The Belleek Visitors Book’ 1868-1884. ONE SIXTY is a photographic collection of moments and memories telling the story of Belleek Pottery over 16 decades. The exhibition showcases the people, scenery and industrial heritage of the Pottery. 86 Senior Times l July - August 2019 l www.seniortimes.ie

Belleek Restaurant: Once your tour is complete you may have time to enjoy some refreshments in our restaurant where Afternoon Tea is served regularly on Aynsley china. The restaurant overlooks the banks of Lough Erne. Retail Showroom: Indulge in a little shopping from our vast range of specially designed products, many of which are handmade in Belleek. Limited editions and exclusive pieces can be purchased in our retail showroom, packed and posted for your convenience. Tax Free shopping and shipping available for international visitors. Awards: Belleek Pottery Visitor Centre is a Tourism Northern Ireland 4* Visitor Attraction. In 2018 they were awarded Highly Commended in the British Coach Tourism Awards for Coach Friendly Attraction and in the Tourism Northern Ireland Awards for Best International Visitor Experience 2018 and they also won the Tourist Attraction of the Year for the 2nd year running at the Northern Ireland Hospitality Awards 2018. Belleek Pottery Visitor Centre, Belleek, Co.Fermanagh BT93 3FY Tel:+44(0)28 686 59300 / +44(0)28 686 58501 Email: takethetour@belleek.ie Web: www.belleekpottery.ie

Arigna Mining

Experience Discover and Experience the fascinating life of a coal miner. Tours are guided by ex-miners

A Unique Underground Tour of what was Irelandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s last working coal mine at Arigna, Co. Roscommon

Find us on... www.arignaminingexperience.ie

Arigna, Carrick-on-Shannon, Co. Roscommon. Phone: +353 71 964 6466 Opening Hours: Mon-Sun 10:00am - 5.00pm (Last Tour) 5.00pm

The No.1 Attraction in Roscommon

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Days Out

Kylemore Abbey and Victorian Walled Garden

Kylemore Abbey and Victorian Walled Garden is one of Ireland’s best loved and most iconic tourist attractions. Home to the Benedictine order of nuns since 1920 Kylemore Abbey is the perfect destination for a day out in beautiful Connemara. Built as a Castle home in the Baronial style in 1868, for Mitchell Henry and his beautiful wife Margaret and their large family, Kylemore looks like an illustration from a book of Fairy Tales. Sadly, Margaret died tragically just a few years after the couple and their family had set up home at Kylemore. The 9th Duke of Manchester and his wife, Helena, took up residence here 1903 to 1913. This glamorous

and much written about couple add another intriguing layer to the Kylemore story. The next chapter in Kylemore’s story came when the nuns set up Kylemore Abbey School in 1922 and girls from all over the world were educated there until 2010. Today visitors can discover wonderful historic buildings, explore our beautiful woodland and lake shore estate, wander through our magnificent Victorian Walled Garden and experience the grandeur of the Connemara countryside. Dine in Mitchells, our self-catering restaurant which produces a wide variety of dishes from bistro

style sandwiches to warming stews, healthy salads and delicious soups. Home baking is our speciality and you will find it hard to beat our apple pies, fruit crumbles and traditional scones. The Tea House by the Walled Garden is the perfect stopping off point for a good coffee or teas made with fresh garden herbs. Our Craft and Design Shop features products handmade by the Benedictine nuns including chocolates, beauty creams soaps and candles as well as a great selection of Irish gifts and crafts. Plan you r visit to Kylemore today by visiting www.kylemoreabbey.com.

COME AND SEE...

“In our changing world, Lough Derg is committed to holding open a space for the less obvious things, for the deeper things, for the things that often get put on the long finger: time for the deeper self, for the hidden self – time for self and God. Come and see…” Fr La Flynn, Prior

THREE DAY PILGRIMAGE

Until Wedneday 15th August 2019 (Last day to begin pilgrimage Tuesday 13th August). Boat times: Daily between 10.30am – 3pm.

Admission €75, concessions for seniors and groups.

ONE DAY RETREATS

AUGUST - Sat 17th, Sun 18th, Mon 19th, Tues 20th, Sat 24th, Sun 25th, Mon 26th, Tues 27th, Sat 31st. SEPT: Sun 1st, Wed 4th, Sat 7th, Mon 9th, Tues 10th, Sat 14th, Sun 15th, Sat 21st, Sun 22nd, Sun 29th The Retreat programme runs from 10.00am-4.30pm. Welcome refreshments and light lunch served. The day retreat is open to adults and not suited to children. (Fasting and walking barefooted is not required) Booking is essential. €45. Boat times: from 9.15am and return from 4.15pm.

SPECIAL DAYS QUIET DAY Friday 6th September A Quiet Day offers you precious time oneto-one with God, at your own pace, in the context of Lough Derg’s spiritual tradition. Spiritual direction available. Refreshments offered on arrival, and a light lunch. LIVING WITH SUICIDE DAY Saturday 28th September The key note speaker on this special retreat day will again be Conor McCafferty, director of ZestNI, psychotherapist and widely respected for his leading work in the area of suicide prevention and bereavement. To find out more information on any of the above events please contact us on T. 071 9861518 E. info@loughderg.org

www.loughderg.org

PURCHASE A HERITAGE CARD & PURCHASE A HERITAGE CARD & EXPLORE IRELAND’S IRELAND’S WONDERFULHERITAGE HERITAGE EXPLORE Free Free admission admission more totomore

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Unlimited access for up to one year €40

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Heritage Cards can be purchased: at participating heritage sites, by phone: 01- 647 6592 / Lo Call 1850- 600 601 by fax: 094- 937 3395

Full Fulldetails: details:www.heritageireland.ie www.heritageireland.ie

Days Out

Gateway to Ireland’s most iconic heritage sites

A mindset shaped by years of life’s experiences, especially one that accepts the reality of a God who holds our days and our years in kind hands, can be in danger of being undermined in subtle ways by an increasingly material worldview. Hearts that cherish hope that life is filled with profound meaning despite the worst that may come our way can find themselves troubled in the midst of a society that has lost its confidence about eternal certainties. Even our behaviour, how we spend our time from day to day and from hour to hour, may begin to drift from what is really life-giving for us. Lough Derg continues to hold its place among the experiences that offer people support and accompaniment for faithful, purposeful living in changing and challenging times. Whether you may already have been part of the Lough Derg pilgrim family in times past, or whether you would be a newcomer, we would look forward to making you welcome on Station Island.

The Office of Public Works (OPW) is your gateway to Ireland’s most iconic heritage sites. From Cork to Donegal and from Dublin to Galway, OPW is your partner to discover the very best of Ireland’s heritage attractions.

The Sanctuary of St Patrick, Lough Derg, Co Donegal opens on Saturday 4th May 2019 for the new pilgrimage & retreat season. Tel: 071 9861518

Step back in time

From castles to battlefields, from formal gardens to wild landscapes and from Christian round towers to Neolithic burial chambers, there is something there for everyone. The OPW manages some of the most iconic heritage sites in Ireland , including Dublin Castle, Kilmainham Gaol , Newgrange, the Rock of Cashel and Clonmacnoise , to name but a few. In addition, why not pay a visit to some of our lesser - known sites like, Ormond Castle, Ardfert Cathedral, Roscrea Heritage, IInacullin (Garnish Island) and many, many more. Our heritage card, allows you to explore all of these magnificent sites for a period of one year, from the date of first use, at a very affordable price. For the young at heart, our senior card (for those aged sixty or over) allows you to explore Ireland’s heritage, culture and history, at our many visitor sites dotted across the country. Full details: www.heritageireland.ie

Time to invest in things that last The Arigna Mining Experience is a unique community inspired initiative which records 400 years of mining history in the area. Coal mining provided much needed work in a region of poor agricultural land. Regular employment was uncommon in the province of Connaught in the 19th and 20th centuries, and it is often said; “There was money in Arigna when there was no money elsewhere”. The industry sustained the community of Arigna down through the centuries and helped them through the horrors of the famine years (1845 to 1852).

Lough Derg continues to hold an attraction for people who can find some time to invest in things that last. Today’s culture can be challenging for people who put store on the deeper and lasting things that lie below the surface of daily life. 90 Senior Times l July - August 2019 l www.seniortimes.ie

The Arigna Mining Experience building was officially opened by Minister Jim McDaid, Minister of State in the Department of Transport on Wednesday 23rd of April 2003. Arigna Mining Experience represents a significant achievement by the community of Arigna,the centre being the first of its kind in Ireland. The completed complex gives visitors an authentic insight into an industry which played a fundamental role in Arigna for generations and is now a tourist attraction of both national and international significance. In completing this project, Arigna has not only created a unique visitor experience but has also ensured the preservation of a crucial part of our history for future generations. Contact Us Call: +353 (0) 71 96 46466 www.arignaminingexperience.ie

New for 2019 ‘From Generation to Generation… the story of Kylemore Abbey’ a multimedia visitor experience in the Abbey bringing Kylemore’s history, from a castle to an Abbey, to a new generation. Visit beautiful Kylemore Abbey in the heart of Connemara, home to the Benedictine community since 1920. History, nature, exploration, relaxation, shopping and dining combine to create the perfect day out at any time of year.

+353 (0) 95 52001 info@kylemoreabbey.com www.kylemoreabbey.com /KylemoreAbbeyandGarden /Kylemoretoday @Kylemoreabbey

e k a S s e m Ti ld O for t s u J The Farewell Tour at The Falls Hotel & Spa

Starring Dickie Rock...with special Guests Paddy Cole and Funny Friday's Sil Fox. Host and Compere George Hunter. Cabaret and dancing on Saturday, August 24 at 8pm. Enjoy a night in Clare with a special overnight ‘For Old Times Sake’ package of One nights B&B, cabaret dinner and show for €124.50 per person sharing! Contact reservations on 065 7071004 or e-mail reservations@fallshotel.ie to see this fabulous show!

Falls Hotel & River Spa|Ennistymon|Co. Clare|V95 D2PC Phone 065 7071004 E-mail: reservations@fallshotel.ie|Website: www.fallshotel.ie

Personal Finance

13 signs that you might be struggling with problem debt Advice from the Insolvency Service of Ireland The effects of problem debt on a person’s wellbeing and mental health can be severe and can prevent them coming forward for help but there is a solution to every debt problem and this is where the Insolvency Service of Ireland (ISI) can help. Not sure what problem debt looks like? Recognising the warning signs is the first step towards addressing the issue Here is a checklist of signs that suggest you might have a real problem. If you answer yes to some of the questions below, it could be time to talk to the ISI. 1. You make sacrifices on day-to-day essentials after you pay your bills each month 2. You have been late with rent or mortgage payments more than once in the past year 3. You have to borrow from friends and family to get you through to the next pension payment 4. You’re afraid to tot up your debts – you don’t know how much you owe 5. You’re hiding your debt from your spouse, partner or from family and friends

off of debts up to E35,000 and can be applied for, at no cost, through an Approved Intermediary, many of whom are based in MABS.

6. The amount you owe, on credit cards, etc., is increasing each month

• Debt Settlement Arrangement – a solution to problem debts that have built up outside of a mortgage, such as credit cards, personal loans, overdrafts. You pay as much as you can for a period of time (max 5 years) and then the balance owed is written off. It can be applied for through a Personal Insolvency Practitioner, professionals based around the country that are regulated by the ISI.

7. You’re paying one credit card off with another 8. Your finances are causing more frequent arguments at home 9. You have to choose which bill to pay late every month 10. You’ve had a new loan application rejected 11. You are often charged late payment fees 12. There is nothing left at the end of the month to put into savings or an emergency fund 13. You have trouble sleeping – worrying about money keeps you awake at night Most people have some level of debt, but if you or someone you know is falling behind on repayments, worried about losing your home, or struggling making ends meet on a monthly basis then it is time to take action and get help. The ISI is the independent government body set up to help tackle personal debt problems. Their regulated advisors are available to talk to people struggling with debt and insolvency and guide them towards solutions that will help them get back on track. The ISI offers four debt solutions: • Debt Relief Notice - a solution for people with low income, no mortgage and very few assets. This solution allows for the complete write 92 Senior Times l July - August 2019 l www.seniortimes.ie

• Personal Insolvency Arrangement – is a similar solution to the Debt Settlement Arrangement but it also includes mortgage debt and, where possible, allows a person to keep their home. Again, this solution is available through a Personal Insolvency Practitioner. • Bankruptcy – the solution for people for which the alternatives above are not suitable. The bankruptcy term is now reduced to 1 year. While you can lose almost all of your assets in bankruptcy, you can also get all of your debts written off. All of the debt solutions overseen by the ISI are designed to get a person back on track financially and at the end of the process the person will be solvent again and can start planning their future. One person who met with a PIP and availed of an ISI solution said, “After years of worry and sleepless nights I finally felt like there was a light at the end of the tunnel. It was such a relief.” She urges others “Not to let it go on another year, deal with it now.” All the debt solutions overseen by the ISI are designed to get a person back on track financially. At the end of the process, the person will be solvent again and have a fresh start. For more information visit www.backontrack.ie freetext GETHELP to 50015 or call the ISI’s information line at 076 106 4200.

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Unlocking the

Property Market

Property Bridges is on a mission to bring high quality, peer-to-peer property lending to Ireland and offer a serious alternative to bank loans. In recent years a swathe of industries and professions have been transformed beyond recognition by the disruptive influence of technology. The extent of the upheaval wrought by technological innovation is particularly evident in sectors such as retail, communications, transport and tourism but few sectors have escaped its pervasive impact. The banking and financial sectors, traditionally slow to depart from age old practices continues to wrestle with the potential implications of alternative funding models facilitated by the advent of new technology. For the first time in generations the sector is facing concerted competition from techsavvy and agile new market entrant’s intent on circumventing outmoded lending practices and capturing a slice of the lucrative market.

The reluctance of Irish banks to provide funding to the new builders and developers that emerged following the decimation of the construction industry during the financial crisis has been routinely cited as a contributory factor in the failure to regenerate the industry and adequately address the ongoing housing supply deficit. “We are essentially a marketplace for property finance,” says Jelly. “After the financial crash, a lot of banks involved in property lending exited the market entirely and for almost a decade, small to medium sized builders and developers have found it virtually impossible to secure any source of finance at all.

One example close to home, is Property Bridges, a company established last year by Armagh native, David Jelly, which offers a radical new lending solution to small and medium sized builders and developers operating in Ireland.

“The market landscape is completely different to what it was ten years ago and alternative lenders, most of which have connections to private equity and UK investment funds, are starting to dominate the marketplace. Property Bridges is completely different, we’re a peer-to-peer model, our online platform removes the need for intermediaries and middlemen and opening up attractive property investment opportunities for ordinary citizens as well as retail and institutional investors Property Bridges Call: 087 0646791 Or email: team@propertybridges.com

SENIOR TIMES CROSSWORD No. 99 Solution Competition winners from last issue 1

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Crossword – three pairs of tickets for EPIC Museum Helen Byrne, Waterford Josephine McCarthy, Blackroack, Co Dublin Charlotte Bolger, Arklow, Co Wicklow

Four copies of The First Rose of Tralee Winnie Smith, Sandymount, Dublin 4 Michael McDonald, Dublin 6 Rose Gilligan, Athlone Pat O’Connor, Bantry, Co Cork

Guessed The Year? - 2000

Crossword number 99 solution

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History

The Vickers Vimy takes off for Europe

Nephew of flying ace launches book on first Atlantic flight

Alcock and Brown after landing in Clifden

Tony Alcock, nephew of aviation pioneer John Alcock, launched 80year old Brendan Lynch’s Yesterday We Were in America at the recent Clifden centenary celebrations of the first Atlantic flight in June 1919. Tony Alcock said ‘Brendan’s book is the most accurate and atmospheric account of my uncle’s trailblazing 1919 flight with Arthur Whitten Brown. A worthy tribute to two great aviation pioneers. More than any other writer, he has got inside the minds of the fliers, the sacrifices they made, the dangers they endured.’ Brendan Lynch reminded ‘For over sixteen hours, John Alcock and Arthur Whitten Brown battled the elements in their open-cockpit Vimy plane, to touch down in Derrygimlagh bog after an 1800-mile epic. A scarcely credible story I often heard around my Tipperary childhood fireside.

From left, Tony Alcock, nephew of John Alcock, Brendan Lynch and Anthony Kilmister, the last surviving friend of Arthur Whitten Brown.

‘With constant rain and cloud, navigator Brown enjoyed only three fleeting sun sightings between Newfoundland and Ireland, yet the pair landed just twenty miles off their original target destination. Alcock and Brown’s success opened up the Atlantic for commercial flights and put Ireland firmly on the world aviation map. It also lifted people’s spirits after the horrors ofWW1 and the Spanish Flu, which had decimated western Europe.’

Terry O’Toole informed visitors ‘Ireland enjoys a long-standing association with aviation. The holder of the first British flying licence was Moore-Brabazon of Tara. In 1910, Belfast’s Lillian Bland became one of the first women in the world to design, build and fly her own plane. James Fitzmaurice took part in the first East-West Atlantic flight from Baldonnell in 1928. The Daily Mail’s Lord Northcliffe, who put up the prize for the flight we are celebrating today, was born in Dublin.’

Speaking at the later launch of a new Central Bank commemorative coin, Brendan Lynch praised the people of Clifden who had worked so hard to commemorate Alcock and Brown. ‘Ireland has staged the most comprehensive celebration of one of the greatest flights in aviation history. Many thanks to Terry O’Toole and his Chamber of Commerce colleagues for all their hard work. I hope in time that, instead of borrowing a statue from the UK, they will erect Clifden’s own monument to the fliers, which will inspire generations to come.’

The Clifden celebrations of the first 1919 Atlantic flight included Air Corps flypasts, marches, the army and Garda bands and exhibitions of memorabilia. It was also attended by representatives of Canada and the UK, and Anthony Kilmister, the last surviving friend of Arthur Whitten Brown.

96 Senior Times l July - August 2019 l www.seniortimes.ie

Brendan Lynch is a former racing cyclist and driver. A supporter of Pacifist philosopher Bertrand Russell, he was once imprisoned for his anti-war activities. He has written eight books, including three on literary Dublin.

for every child, a dream Do you dream of a world where every child has clean water, nutritious food, healthcare, an education and a safe environment to grow up in? You can make your dream come true. Did you know you can leave the gift of a better future to a child in your Will? It is really easy and inexpensive to do and you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to be wealthy to make a difference that will last a lifetime. Please consider this very special way of ensuring your love for children lives on. For more information, please call Justin on 01 878 3000 or go to www.unicef.ie Thank you. Credit: UNICEF/ Bangladesh 2017/ Bindra

Motoring

City slicker

Breda Corrigan tests the Hyundai i10, Ireland’s top-selling city car

The Hyundai i10 is the personification of the classic ‘city car’ - short in length, tall in height, and with five doors as standard. Now in its second generation, the i10 was facelifted in 2017, with a refresh to both the exterior and interior in an effort to keep it competitive with its rivals – such as the Volkswagen Up!, Škoda CitiGo, Toyota Aygo, and Kia Picanto, amongst others. Visual improvements included a new cascading front grille, and LED daytime-running-lights as standard, while an improved infotainment system was the main update in the car’s, otherwise faultless, interior. Featuring a sharp, distinctive exterior look, and a high-quality spacious interior, the Hyundai i10 also benefits from a wonderful platform which underpins the car, and reinforces the car’s dynamics and refinement. It 98 Senior Times l July - August 2019 l www.seniortimes.ie

will come as no surprise, that the Hyundai i10 was Ireland’s best-selling small car in the first quarter of 2019, and is set to continue this trend throughout the year. Specification options Three trim levels are available in the Hyundai i10 – Classic, Deluxe, and Premium, with standard specification across the range including such features as 6 airbags (with a front passenger airbag deactivation switch), seat belt reminder, tyre pressure monitoring, ABS, blue & black seat material, and a 60:40 split-folding rear seat. The 1.0-litre petrol engine in the i10 produces 65bhp and 95Nm of torque, and is capable of returning up to 60.1mpg (4.7l/100km) on a combined driving cycle. The

Support our #Clear Our Paths Campaign The National Council for the Blind of Ireland (NCBI) launched its #Clear our Paths campaign in May 2019. The campaign urges members of the public to think about the obstacles on our footpaths that make safe and independent travel difficult for people with sight loss. These include cars parked on footpaths, wheelie bins, overhanging branches, dog litter and bicycles tied to poles. Obstacles such as these can lead to injury and make each journey more difficult for someone with low or no vision. The sole aim of our campaign is to encourage everyone to play their part and keep footpaths clear of temporary obstacles which have a significant negative impact on the almost 55,000 people living with sight loss in Ireland. Simple actions such as cleaning up after their dogs, respecting the traffic laws and not parking on footpaths, taking in their bins after collection and trimming overhanging branches. These are not onerous requests, and the difference they make to someone with sight loss is impossible to quantify.

grateful for my white cane. It is a lifesaver because one trip can change the course of my life and lead to further disability. I continue on and encounter a full wheelie bin right in the middle of the path. I have no choice but to step off the path and onto the road to get by. Further down the road, a huge briar hanging down gets caught in my hair. I am lucky it could have been my eye. A little distance on, there is a huge jeep totally blocking the path and once again I have to step off the path onto the road. And finally, disgustingly, I slip on dog litter. I think if the general public were aware of their actions they would be more mindful. All of the above obstacles could have been avoided so that people who are blind and vision impaired could instead have had a pleasant and safe journey. Let’s have a stress-free and safe zone on our footpaths".

Noreen Carter, who has a vision impairment, gives an account of her daily journey to navigate the obstacles on the footpath:

NCBI Whitworth Road Drumcondra, Dublin 9

“As I venture into town from my house I first encounter a bicycle on the footpath. I am

Ph: 01 830 7033 www.ncbi.ie

Waterford Castle Hotel & Golf Resort The Island Resort’s Senior Special Rates Waterford Castle Hotel & Golf Resort offers a 310 acre Oasis Meander the 7 ½ kms of nature trails along the River Suir. Be inspired by our island’s nature preserve to create your masterpiece with our island’s artists pods located along the hidden pathways. Experience our abundant Island wildlife with over 70 sika deer, red squirrel, herons, badger, hare, swans, pheasant and many bird species making it a bird’s watchers paradise.

Spring on the Island at Waterford Castle Travel by Ferry to the 310 acre private Island Resort

Waterford Castle leave your worries at the shore….. e. info@waterfordcastleresort.com w. www.waterfordcastleresort.com t. 051 878 203 Waterford Castle Hotel | The Island | Waterford | Ireland

Castle 2 Night luxury escape from €298 includes breakfast & dinner on one evening Island 2 night Lodge break (sleeps six) starting from €229 The Munster Room Restaurant's Tasting Menu €50pp 6:30-7:30pm

Motoring

0-100km/h sprint can be achieved in 14.7-seconds, with a claimed top speed of 155km/h (where permitted). The standard 5-speed manual gearbox in the Hyundai i10 is perfectly suited to the car’s 3-cylinder engine, which is lively, quick to rev, and provides a pleasant sound in return. An automatic gearbox option is also available with the 1.0-litre petrol engine for added driving comfort.

Refined road manners On the road, the i10 offers great refinement on all types of road surfaces – a rarety in the city-car class – while the car’s handling is superb. The car’s capable engine and smooth manual gearbox take the strain out of keeping up with motorway traffic, as the car is quite happy to compete for control of the fast lane when the opportunity presents itself.

Test car Verdict and Pricing My test car was a Hyundai i10 ‘Deluxe’ model, fitted with a 5-speed manual gearbox. Standard specification in the Deluxe model includes height adjustment on the driver’s seat, 14in alloy wheels, body coloured door handles & mirror casings, electrically operated & heated door mirrors, side mouldings, leather & chrome steering wheel and gear knob, LED daytime-running-lights, manual air-conditioning, cruise control (manual gearbox only), keyless entry, and speed and impact-sensing automatic door locks. Boot space in the Hyundai i10 is competitive in its class, with 252-litres available with the back seat rests in the upright position. However, drop the rear seats, and the cargo area increases to an impressive 1,046-litres. 100 Senior Times l July - August 2019 l www.seniortimes.ie

When considering the purchase of a city car, buyers will ultimately look for a car which will attract low running costs, be easy to drive, possess smart looks, have big-car comfort, be well built, spacious, and be fun to drive. Having spent time behind the wheel of the wonderful Hyundai i10, I can safely say that Hyundai’s top-selling city car is all of the above and more. Ex-works prices for the new Hyundai i10 start at just E13,745 for the Classic model, E15,245 for the Deluxe model I tested, and E16,245 in top-spec ‘Premium’ trim. Hyundai’s 5-Year, unlimited mileage warranty comes as standard, along with a 5-Year roadside assistance package, and free vehicle safety checks for 5 years too.

Know Your Rights

Advice from the Citizens Information Service

I am moving back to Ireland after several years in Germany. Am I allowed to bring my dog and cat home with me? Strict controls are in place for bringing pets into Ireland to ensure that diseases such as rabies are not introduced. If you are moving to Ireland or coming on holiday you can bring your dog or cat with you. The EU system of Passports for Pets allows dogs, cats and ferrets to travel between EU member states. Any private veterinary practice can issue an EU Pet Passport which will certify that the pet is travelling from an eligible country, is identified by an implanted microchip and has been vaccinated against rabies at least 21 days before travel. Cats, dogs or ferrets coming from countries other than the UK, Finland or Malta must be treated against tapeworm between 24 and 120 hours before travel. The time and date of treatment are entered on the passport. Treatment for ticks is not compulsory, but it is advisable to get it at the same time as the tapeworm treatment. Registered airlines may choose to carry pets complying with the Pet Passport regulations. Compliant pets may travel on any ferry. The pet must travel with its owner or with a person acting on behalf of the owner (unaccompanied pets cannot travel to Ireland under the EU Pet Passport System).

Your grandchild can start ECCE when they are 2 years and 8 months of age and continue until they transfer to primary school (once they are not older than 5 years and 6 months at the end of the pre-school year). The Department of Children and Youth Affairs’ eligibility calendar shows when the child can participate in the ECCE Scheme.

How do I access the Early Childhood Care and Education Scheme for my 2 year-old grandchild?

If your grandchild has special needs they may be able to get an exemption from the upper age limit. If you have a grandchild with a disability, you can also apply for additional supports under the Access and Inclusion Model (AIM) - you can find more information on aim.gov.ie.

The Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) Scheme provides free early childhood care and education for children of pre-school age. It gives children their first formal experience of early learning before starting primary school.

Children can only enrol in pre-school in September. The ECCE Scheme runs from September to June for 3 hours a day, 5 days a week. If your grandchild attends a childcare service (crèche, playschool, naíonra, Senior Times l July - August 2019 l www.seniortimes.ie 101

Know Your Rights Montessori or parent and toddler group) for longer than this each day or for extra weeks outside the school year (38 weeks) you have to pay for these extra hours. To get a place for your grandchild, apply to a participating playschool or day care centre. You can get a list of participating services from your local City or County Childcare Committee (CCC) on myccc.ie. You will need to provide a copy of your child's birth certificate or passport and their PPS number.

I will be retiring soon. I spent many years working and I have also spent time raising and caring for my family. Can I qualify for the State Pension (Contributory)? The State Pension (Contributory) (SPC) is paid from the age of 66 to people who have worked and have enough social insurance contributions. Recent changes introduced a new method to calculate the rate of SPC paid to a person who reaches pension age on or after 1 September 2012. The new method can help people who have spent time out of the workforce caring to qualify for an SPC. Firstly, you must be aged 66 or over and have enough Class A, E, F,G, H, N or S social insurance contributions, you must have started to pay social insurance in Ireland before the age of 56 and you must have 520 full-rate contributions (10 years of contributions). Then, provided you reached pension age on or after 1 September 2012, you can have your contributions assessed using the new Total Contributions Approach (TCA) and can avail of a new HomeCaring Periods Scheme. The TCA counts the total number of contributions you have paid. If you have 2,080 or more contributions (40 years of employment) you will qualify for the maximum personal rate of SPC. If you have fewer than 2,080 contributions, you can use up to 1,040 Home Caring Periods (20 years) and up to 520 credited contributions (10 years), to help you qualify for an SPC. Your combined Home Caring Periods and credited contributions cannot be more than 1,040 (20 years). If you reached pension age on or after 1 September 2012, your entitlement to a pension will be calculated using both the current yearly aver102 Senior Times l July - August 2019 l www.seniortimes.ie

aging system and the new TCA calculation. If you are entitled to a SPC, the rate of pension you get will be based on whichever calculation is best for you. You can get a State Pension (Contributory) form from your local post office and your Intreo Centre or Social Welfare Branch Office. Travelling to my office through city traffic is taking me longer because of increased congestion. Can I travel by electric scooter instead?

An electric scooter (sometimes called an e-scooter) is a small platform with two or more wheels that is propelled by an electric motor. The rider can also propel the electric scooter forward by pushing off the ground. Electric scooters and electric skateboards fall into the category of ‘mechanically propelled vehicles’ (as defined in the Road Traffic Act 1961). If a vehicle can be powered by mechanical or electrical power alone, then it is considered to be a ‘mechanically propelled vehicle’. Under Irish road traffic law, people using such vehicles in a public place must have insurance, road tax and a driving licence. There are penalties under road traffic laws (including fixed charge notices, penalty points, fines and possible seizure of the vehicle) for not being in compliance with these requirements. As it is currently not possible to tax or insure electric scooters or skateboards, they are not considered suitable for use in public places. However, the Road Safety Authority is carrying out research as to how electric scooters and other such vehicles are regulated in other countries, particularly in other EU member states. The goal is to understand the road safety implications of the use of such vehicles on public roads, especially when interacting with other vehicles. You can read frequently asked questions about electric vehicles on rsa.ie. 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.

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Win 3 pairs of FREE tickets to visit the Epic Museum EPIC is an entertaining, accessible and educational day of family fun for kids, adults and grandparents alike. The museum is highly interactive, with easy-to-use technology and filled with stories of Irish people who travelled the world highlighting their achievements in music, literature, sport, politics, fashion and science. Epic is located in the historic CHQ building which includes a fantastic choice of cafĂŠs, restaurants and shops Luas: Red line, Georgeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Dock stop DART: 5 minute walk from Connolly and Tara Street Station Dublin Bus: Multiple routes stopping both outside CHQ and in surrounding areas Dublin Bikes: Station no. 8, right outside the door Parking: IFSC ParkRite (3 min walk) discounted parking for up to 3 hours available For Group bookings call (0)1 906 0861 www.epicchq.com

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If you do not wish to receive further information from us please tick this box

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Send your entry to: Crossword Competition Senior Times magazine, Unit 1, 15 Oxford Lane Dublin 6 Alternatively : Take a picture of the completed crossword and email the image to dcronin@epicchq.com Closing date: 15th August 2019

Crossword Crossword Number 100 by Zoë Devlin

ACROSS

DOWN

1 Number of years ‘SENIOR TIMES’ is in existence! (6) 3 Give Tom a tiny piece of anything (4) 5 Concentrate one’s attention or zoom in (5) 8 Legalised in some cases, after 2018 referendum (8) 13 Cork were 2017 ___ ___ hurling champions (3,7) 15 Bertie had this role from 1997 to 2008 (9) 16 Country with sovereign-debt crisis in 2009 (6) 19 Currency introduced into Ireland in 1999 (4) 20 Tiny aches or feeling of indecision? (9) 21 Dutch currency until the 19 Across (7) 22 Employ or utilise (3) 25 & 78 Down. Sent home from 54 Down in 2002 (3,5) 26 Put into service or apply (7) 27 Bin Laden led al-___ until his death in 2011 (5) 28 G7 summit is attended by ___ of government (5) 34 Same-sex ___ was legalised here in 2015 (8) 35 Medical prediction or forecast (9) 37 Dead or lacking animation (8) 40 Oscar winning film 1999 ‘___ in love’ (11) 42 Gift voucher or type of symbol (5) 43 Plan or manoeuvre for attaining particular goal (6) 45 Prejudice or discrimination against another race (6) 46 British Labour leader since 2015 ___ Corbyn (6) 47 Substance used on strings of a violin (5) 49 Obedient out of sense of duty (7) 51 Elected in 2013, Pope ___ (7) 53 Outdoor fund-raising celebrations (5) 55 Sacred songs used to praise deity (6) 56 Celebrating its 100th edition, ___ TIMES! (6) 60 Overwhelming feeling of fear and anxiety (6) 61 Social gathering to dance and play traditional Irish music (5) 62 Have a poetic faint or talk in pompous manner? (11) 64 St ___ O’Toole, 12th century Archbishop of Dublin (8) 65 Collection of live animals as in Dublin Zoo (9) 67 Resigned in 2013, Pope ___ XVI (8) 71 9/11 saw attack on ___ Trade Center (5) 72 Irish export to BBC, Terry ___, died 2016 73 Winner of Man Booker prize 1999, J.M.___ (7) 75 Glamourous Hollywood star, ___ Taylor, died 2011 (3) 80 Sum of 15+1, in Ancient Rome (3) 81 Ill-health with specific symptoms (7) 82 One who is illiterate (3-6) 83 Small boat or our currency prior to 19 Across. (4) 86 John Low fills this role in ‘SENIOR TIMES’ (6) 87 U.S. name for a mobile phone (9) 88 Can a bolder aunt attend this type of meeting? (5-5) 90 The Norman ___ took place in 1169 (8) 91 One who gives (5) 92 US President from 2001-2009, George W ___ (4) 93 Eamon Martin, Archbishop of ___ since 2014 (6)

1 2 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 14 17 18 23 24 29 30 31 32 33 36 38 39 40 41 44 48 50 51 52 54 55 57 58 59 61 63 66 68 69 70 74 76 77 78 79 84 85 89

Mature zip needed for this quadrilateral with no parallel sides? (9) Pitch or perhaps a sailor? (3) In 1999, Mary O’Rourke held this position (8) Former singer, member of Seanad since 2016, ___ Black (7) Flat metal disc, maybe a 19 Across (4) Conjecture .. supposition .. for police aunts! (11) Tangible symbol of approval or distinction (8) Seat of Irish kings until sixth century (4) This is issue ___ ___ of ‘SENIOR TIMES’ (3,7) Person or species from a foreign country (5) Government and Houthi have been at war in ___ since 2015 (5) Basic unit of money in Italy prior to 19 Across (4) Irish boxer/Olympic medallist, Katie ___ (6) Was our Taoiseach born under this sign of the Zodiac? (3) Style of address for 51 Across, His ___ (8) Film and TV star of ‘Sherlock’, ___ Cumberbatch (8) Can a cottager wear this heavy winter overgarment? (9) Hosni Mubarak was President of ___ 1981-2011 (5) Traditional west of Ireland fishing boat (6) National postal address system introduced in 2015 (7) Also .. in addition (2,4) Plucky .. marked by courage (5) Can a daft rower enter this city, home of crystal (9) Reparation for a wrongdoing or 2007 award-winning film (9) 72 Across was given this ‘gong’ in 2005 (3) Thing that happens .. phenomenon .. occurrence (5) Written declaration made under oath (9) One for a letter or card costs E1 since 2017 (5) Large living bird, flightless with two-toed feet (7) ‘The Gathering’ a 2013 initiative to bring a ___ together (6) Smartly .. shrewdly .. skillfully (8) Training location for Irish 2002 World Cup players (6) Sally Rooney won Costa Book ___ in 2019 (5) Ebola virus or Bubonic plague for example (8) Fish eggs such as in caviar (3) Johnny ___, RTE football analyst 1986-2016 (5) Alas, arcades don’t sell this type of cold, raw dish (6,5) We won the ___ Song Contest 1992-94 (10) Graduate gaining practical experience (6) Century from 1900-1999 (9) Anticipated .. envisioned (8) Wicklow-born, Dame Ninette __ ___, dancer/choreographer (2,6) Writer Joseph ___ or singer Sinead ___ (1'6) Distinguish oneself .. surpass (5) Assistance .. help (3) See 25 Across. Electric lamp or plant reproductive structure (4) Can you score a goal on this Donegal island? (4) Front part of human leg (4) High rocky hill or promontory (3)

Senior Times l July - August 2019 l www.seniortimes.ie 105

Meeting Place WE ARE THE WEDNESDAY CLUB, South Dublin social group of widows, widowers and singles aged 55 up wards. We number 75. We are seeking new members and men would be especially welcome to improve our female/ male mix. Our activities include dining out, visiting interesting places, card games, concerts, holidays at home and abroad, theatre and much more. Interested? REPLY TO BOX NUMBER Y1 MUNSTER GAY LADY 60s, WLTM a friend/ companion for chats/outings/holidays etc. Must be NS REPLY TO BOX NUMBER Y2 NORTHSIDE DUBLIN LADY MID 60s, NS, SD, WLTM nice ladies in the 65-75 age bracket for social outings and holidays at home and abroad. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER Y3 ROMANTIC NORTHSIDE DUBLIN GENT, 60s, never married, country origin, walker, DIY, artistic. Seeking female soulmate to share joy of living, wonders of the world. Lets daily celebrate each other with romance, kindness, support, motivation laughter, fun. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER Y4 RESPECTABLE MEATH LADY, WIDOW, family grown up, retired professional. WLTM reasonable, caring, interesting gent for friendship and companionship. Age range 75 upwards. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER Y5 LEINSTER LADY, LATE 70s, young at heart, widowed, varied interests. WLTM educated, refined gent to share coffee and conversation. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER Y6 DUBLIN-BASED FOREIGN WIDOW, 63, medium build, young in outlook. Interests include nature, reading, travel, arts. WLTM honest, caring gent for relationship. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER Y7 CO GALWAY LADY MID 60s WLTM genuine gent for friendship, outings and perhaps more. Varied interests. REPLY TO NOX NUMBER Y8 KILDARE WIDOWER, MID-60S, RETIRED loves country life, many interests, NS, SD, Likes to travel at home and abroad, particularly, South West, Kerry. WLTM lady for friendship/ relationship to enjoy life. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER F1 NORTH WEST LADY WLTM others in the North West who are free to socialize and go out weekends. Interest include dancing, cycling, walking and country pursuits. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER F2

DUBLIN GENT, MID 60s, YOUNG APPEARANCE, enjoys reading, walking, dining out, current affairs, WLTM lady for friendship/ relationship. REPLY TO BOS NUMBER F3 GALWAY LADY, LATE 50s, WLTM a practical gentleman who is reliable and down to earth for companionship/romance. ND but no problem with someone someone who drinks in moderation. Not on social media. Free most weekends. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER F4 NORTHSIDE DUBLIN GENT seeks lady for ballroom and latin dance practice and possibly to participate in competitions. Age not important. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER F5 MONAGHAN WIDOW, 60s, looking for friendship with a genuine man from the North East area. Religion, or none, not important. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER F6 YOUNG AT HEART LADY,70, WLTM other educated people, similar age group, for friendship and socializing. GSOH essential as honesty and sincerity. No materialist people. REPLY TO BO NUMBER F7 ROMANTIC NORTH DUBLIN GENT, cheerful, kind, caring, considerate, respectful, never married, 60s, house, car. Interests include walking, art, DIY, documentaries. Seeks life partner for permanent relationship. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER F8 SOUTHSIDE DUBLIN GENT, 65, sincere, caring and romantic, great company, GSOH. ND, NS but likes to frequent pubs for social reasons. Interests include reading, writing, eating out, cinema, theatre. WLTM lady of similar age with similar interests. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER F9 DUBLIN LADY, 65, relaxed outlook, would love to meet a gent to share the happy times with. Interests include dancing, cinema, eating out, theatre, genealogy etc. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER F10 SINCERE, CARING, TRUSTWORTHY, VIVACIOUS lady from North East, retired professional, young in outlook, nice disposition. Interests include reading, theatre, walking, current affairs, seeks a warm, friendly gent for chats and friendship. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER H1 SOUTHSIDE DUBLIN MAN, 60, seeks pen friends of either sex. Interests include sport, reading, cycling, wildlife, music. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER H2

106 Senior Times l July - August 2019 l www.seniortimes.ie

SOUTH COUNTY DUBLIN WOMAN, 60s seeks male and female companions who like to travel by rail in Ireland, on short visits abroad and explore various cultural attractions in our cities. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER H3 NORTH COUNTY DUBLIN GENT in his 80s but thinks and acts younger, well educated and travelled. NS, SD. Lives alone in a large house. WLTM a lady that would fit into that background, Age, nationality and creed irrelevant but GSOH would be helpful. Initially for meals, chats and some travel, but who knows. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER H4 YOUNG LOOKING SOUTH SIDE DUBLIN LADY, tall and elegant, late fifties, former model and Rose of Dublin. Interests include nature and animals, theatre, concerts, eating out. WLTM a kind gent 55-60 common interests who is similarly seeking companionship and perhaps a lasting relationship. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER H5 GALWAY GENT, 55, WLTM lady aged from 50-75 for companionship and perhaps relationship. Interests include sport, keep fit, music and reading. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER H6 SEMI RETIRED, PROFESSIONAL CORK LADY 60s, single, vivacious, sincere, thoughtful, good appearance and spiritual. Enjoys good conversion, sport, music, drama, history, exploring new cultures, the arts. WLTM educated, refined gent, single or widowed to share this wonderful life. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER H7 TALL, FIT DUBLIN MALE, 69, no ties, NS, SD, GSOH. Would love to meet that special lady for friendship, relationship long term. ALA. Interests include walking driving, cinema, theatre, dining out, and music. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER H8 SOUTH EAST LADY, 60, enjoys classical concerts, reading, writing, crafting, crosswords. Would enjoy the friendship of a gent who is caring, genuine and financially secure. Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s see how it goes. NS, SD, GSOH. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER H9 ATHLETIC, YOUNG BLACK GUY FROM GHANA, late thirties, living in England. NS, SD, GSOH. WLTM mature, hard-working, open minded lady for friendship and perhaps more. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER H10 CLARE MAN, SINGLE, EARLY 60s, semi-retired, genuine, kind and caring. Loves traditional and country and western music. SD, NS. WLTM single or widowed lady late 50s with same interests to share life in a loving relationship. Ideally from the Clare/Galway/Limerick area. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER H11

CHEERFUL LEINSTER MALE MID 50s, no ties, romantic and effervescent with a playful and fun frame of mind. A gent who enjoys life and is open to new ideas. Enjoy many sports, concerts, current affairs and much more. WLTM a broadminded lady, 50s to 60s, with similar or other interests. Let’s see how it goes. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER H12 CO MEATH ACTIVE, WIDOW, RETIRED TEACHER, 79, friendly amicable, GSOH seeks a gent, 70s/80s preferably from Leinster for friendship and companionship. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER H13 HAPPY GO LUCKY VEGETARIAN DUBLIN GENT, interested in the holistic side of life, NS. Seeks lady for great adventures. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER H14 MID 60s DUBLIN LADY WLTM man with a positive outlook for friendship/relationship. Interests include travel, cinema, cooking, dining out. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER H15 KILDARE LADY, 64, SLIM AND ATTRACTIVE WLTM kind man to share retirement years. Must be caring and enjoy life. I enjoy good movies, good banter and travel. GSOH. Life is better shared so lets bring a new journey to cross items off the bucket list! REPLY TO BOX NUMBER H16 SINGLE WOMAN NEVER MARRIED, 60s, lives near Dublin. WLTM genuine man for dining and possible travel. I’m tall, told I’m attractive. NS REPLY TO BOX NUMBER H17 ACTIVE SOUTH DUBLIN WIDOWER, LATE 70s, refined, smart appearance, well-mannered, thoughtful, easy going. WLTM a lady of similar status for companionship, travel, car trips, dancing, soirees, nice wine, bridge and fun. I am 5ft 10in, medium build with a happy outlook on life. Get in touch please. REPLY T0 BOX NUMBER H18 GENUINE GALWAY LADY LATE 50s, unmarried, amicable, considerate. Interests include choral singing, walking, personal development. WLTM kind, decent man of similar age for chats, laughs, romance. It could be you! REPLY TO BOX NUMBER H19 UK MALE MID-60s, Irish descent and a regular visitor to Ireland. Semi-retired professional, single, never married, no children. Presentable, romantic, affectionate, positive outlook, GSOH, NS. Interests include travel, the great outdoors, current affairs and sport. WLTM lady for romance, travel and shared adventures. Any area, age or status – all replies answered. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER E1 NORTH CO DUBLIN LADY, 65, widow, considered attractive, blonde, 5ft 5in, medium build. WLTM nice gentleman of similar age and situation for friendship/relationship. Interests include reading, music, cinema, dining out occasionally and love walking. Caring with a positive attitude and GSOH. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER E2

HAPPY DUBLIN MAN 60s, never married, country origins. Respectful, joyful, caring. Interests include watercolour painting, walking. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER E3 RETIRED CO MEATH PROFESSIONAL LADY, 80, widow, GSOH, seeks a warm and friendly educated gent for friendship and companionship, preferably from midlands. Age range 75-80. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER E4 SOUTH DUBLIN GENT, MID 60s, retired public servant, height 180cm, medium build, good appearance. GSOH. NS, SD, healthy lifestyle. Interests include ballroom dancing, music (play instruments), current affairs, travel at home and abroad, eating out, cinema, concerts, bridge, reading, gardening, walking sport. WLTM cheerful lady nid-50s to late 60s to share some interests. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER E5

DUBLIN FEMALE 65, 5ft 3in, slim, relaxed outlook, young at heart, would love to feel happier. Interests include social dancing, history, genealogy. WLTM a genuine man to enjoy the usual things such as eating out, cinema, theatre. Looking for someone easy to talk to, have fun and bring a little anticipation and spark into life. REPLY TO BOX NUMBDER E14 NORTH DUBLIN MALE, 80, looks years younger, widower, NS, SD, no ties, medium height, WLTM lady for friendship/relationship. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER C1 DUBLIN LADY, 65, RETIRED, WLTM respectful gentleman with similar interests which include cinema, history, reading and travel. Interested in friendship and possible relationship. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER C2

YOUNG-LOOKING DUBLIN MAN, 65, 5ft 9in, NS, SD. Slim, likes to keep fit. Enjoy reading, walking, dining out and current affairs. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER E6

ROMANTIC CO DUBLIN MALE, LATE 70s, WLTM nice lady 50s-60s with romance in mind. Interest include cinema, theatre, current affairs and coffees for a chat. Young at heart and good sense of humour. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER C3

LITHUANIAN WOMAN, 57, LIVING IN CAVAN, 5ft 6in, NS, ND, WLTM sincere gent aged 60 or more, willing to move if necessary. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER E7

TO PLACE AN ADVERTISEMENT

NORTHSIDE DUBLIN WOMAN, 60s, with some hearing difficulties WLTM a genuine single/widowed gentleman late 60s, early 70s. NS, SD. Recently retired from civil service. Country origins from farming background, no ties, loves country life, reading, art, traditional and classical music. Would like to share life with someone who values the simple pleasures and joys of everyday life; Midlands/Dublin preferable. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER E9 RETIRED DUBLIN WIDOWER, 60s, NS, SD, GSOH. Interests include swimming, theatre, travel, current affairs, (living the days instead of counting the years). WLTM lady late 50s-early 60s with similar interests for friendship and let’s see how it goes. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER E10 PETITE SOUTH DUBLIN BRUNETTE, 50ish, with soft brown eyes, WLTM affectionate gentleman for friendship who knows how to treat a lady. Must be interested in ballroom/jive/salsa, theatre, cinema, walking and travel, REPLY TO BOX NUMBER E11 UK CATHOLIC LADY LIVING IN CORK, married with family. Interests include dressmaking, crafts, reading (especially religious titles). WLTM other ladies for coffee and friendship. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER E12 CHEERFUL MAN, 60s, LIVING IN DUBLIN but country origins, never married. Joyful, retired, positive, sincere, healthy, respectful. Regular walker, landscape painter, seeks romantic permanent relationship with interesting lady. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER E13

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 15th August 2019.

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).

Senior Times l July - August 2019 l www.seniortimes.ie 107

Crafts Mother of invention Connie McEvoy remembers how her mother’s crafts skills and ingenuity triumphed when materials were hard to come by or non-existent

The flower that I made in 1957 (I think it’s supposed to be a passion flower) is still sported when I have occasion to wear a black hat.

Later in life mam took up carving and she made this beautiful thimble from a piece of sycamore.

The two scarfs that were woven on a hand loom- the red and green one is mam’s, mine is pink, blue and navy. Both of these scarfs were worked in 4 ply Killowen wool but due to the fact that I wove in a tighter tension mine is narrower and shorter than Mams.

During the mid 1940s and 1950s my mother spent a lot of time demonstrating and teaching hand crafts to ICA members and other interested groups in Counties Carlow and Wexford. Membership of Clonegal guild ICA was a great advantage as it was regarded as being progressive and very efficient then. In the early days ICA headquarters employed a ‘now I am in a pretty fix’ and sent me to both Tullow and Bunclody on a team of members who were trained as regional organisers to visit guilds McEvoy in search of bright colours all to no avail. The only other option countrywide in order to guide members in such matters as procedure atConniebicycle meetings and how to access training courses and lectures in handcrafts, would be to order a supply by post from Dublin and it was now too late to even consider taking that action so she averred they may just put drama and public speaking. Usually a monthly meeting was held and a federation meeting would be held three or four times each year (an extra up with what I have. Minutes later she got her scissors and proceeded to cut out 40 stems and 80 leaves from a big square of black felt and meeting was held if deemed necessary). If a member was considered instructed me to fold the stems lengthwise, thread a fine sharp with black skilled at a craft she would be asked to teach others in the guild as soon as the business of the meeting was concluded. This was the procedure thread and work three or four neat running stitches at one end, I was asked to work a few neat back stitches as the start of the centre vein of at federation meetings also. each leaf. While most members were interested in crafts there was a feeling that While I was acting on those instructions mam was busily cutting the five instruction in the proper way to learn the necessary steps to work a outer petals needed for each of the twenty flowers from the black felt craft to a professional standard would be needed in order to sell work and I was pleased to hear that I only needed to pinch the pointed end that was produced at country markets and agricultural shows. Mam of each petal and work a few stitches along each pinch/pleat so as it having been successful in winning 1st prize for all of her entries for years would sit well and be nicely shaped rather than flat. Just as I thought that at shows was tasked with the job of tutoring guild members at first and she was going to ask her students to work a total black flower each, she afterwards when word spread she ended up tutoring at federation emerged from the parlour with a large square of Kingfisher blue felt and meetings as well. Crafts most in demand during the 1940sw, rush-work, smaller pieces of red. Somehow she managed to produce enough felt soft toys, cane work and dressmaking. to complete the packs needed for that demonstration and I still have the In order to demonstrate/teach a craft, samples of work at various one that I worked on step by step and side by side with her and those stages needed to be prepared/worked in advanced of a class and patient ladies who had organised a delicious supper and sing-song for displayed or presented as required during instruction as well as the us in order to bring that demonstration to a happy conclusion in 1957. required number of packs for students to work on. Mam always did her preparatory work at home and I was always asked to help her, indeed I The flower that I made in 1957 (I think it’s supposed to be a passion couldn’t have been happier as I loved all handcrafts and regarded mam flower) is still sported when I have occasion to wear a black hat and in as being a master crafter who could impart her knowledge and experthe third photo a selection of other crafts that mam taught/demonstrattise by working on her own pack step by step as a project progressed. ed are included, some are samplers others finished work such as the Crafters were never to handle a student’s project. If help was needed it two scarfs that were woven on a hand loom- the red and green one is was to be demonstrated on the demonstrators project. I came in useful if two students needed assistance at the same time and being ambidex- mam’s, mine is pink, blue and navy. Both of these scarfs were worked in 4 ply Killowen wool but due to the fact that I wove in a tighter tension trous was an advantage on occasion. mine is narrower and shorter than Mams. Eventually when I reached the ripe old age of 14 years she paid my Later on in life Mam took up wood carving as a hobby and each one ICA membership fee and always took me as her assistant to guild and of her ten children and some grandchildren have beautiful pieces of federation meetings. I still have many of the copy books that she wrote craftsmanship worked by her on display in their homes, I love the thimble instructions in, (also outlines, diagrams and patterns freehand) usually that she turned and hand carved forget-me-nots on for me to put on using a puce pencil. Sourcing necessary materials could be difficult display in my large thimble collection cabinet. Although I have other at times and I can remember an occasion when mam was asked to beautiful pieces that she carved for me this thimble is really special as demonstrate felt flower making to twenty students after a federation meeting in Bagenalstown at very short notice on Thursday July 4th 1957. she worked it on a piece of a branch that was broken from a Sycamore tree in the haggard during a storm years ago, nothing was wasted and Felt flower making was very popular then and as mam had used up even the smallest scrap could have potential (Mams motto always). most of the popular colours at previous demonstrations she exclaimed 108 Senior Times l July - August 2019 l www.seniortimes.ie

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