SeniorTimes Magazine - March/April

Claiming is easy, just ask in store

Publishing Directors: Brian McCabe, Des Duggan

Editorial Director: John Low

Advertising: Willie Fallon

Design & Production: www.cornerhouse.ie

Contributors: Lorna Hogg, Dermot Gilleece, Maretta Dillon, Peter Power, Matthew Hughes, Mairead Robinson, Eileen Casey, Debbie Orme, Connie McEvoy, George Keegan, Pat Keenan Michael O’Loughlin

News Now

‘Attractions galore’ at Dublin 50 Plus Show

The popular free-admission 50 Plus Show is back at the RDS, Dublin next month and, according to the organisers, there will be ‘attractions galore’.

Apart from the participation of the likes of Vodafone, Select Hotels, National Gallery, Active Retirement Ireland and Revenue Commisioners, there will be an on-going programme of events.

The programme includes talks on the treasures of The National Gallery, a Brendan Behan tribute by Apres-Match star Gary Cooke, fashion show each day, performances by singer-harpist Claire Roche, creative writing workshops and pole walking demonstrations.

Improve your digital skills

And if you want to improve your digital skills Vodafone Ireland Foundation will be on hand at this year to provide digital skills workshops particularly to anyone with very limited on-line knowledge.

There is a growing digital divide between generations. And with services and communities becoming increasingly online, it is more important than ever to ensure no-one is left behind on the journey to a digital world.

‘Hi Digital’ is a step-by-step course designed for anyone who needs a bit of help developing their digital skills, particularly those who have rarely or

isolation.

The 50 Plus Show takes place in the Industries Hall of the RDS on the 14th and 15th of April – for more details go to www.seniortimes.ie or phone 01 496 9028.

New National Rare Disease Plan from Department of Health.

Improving and expanding the care and treatment of patients with rare diseases is a ‘priority for the Government’, with work spearheaded by the HSE National Clinical Programme for Rare Diseases.

‘The Government has also substantially increased funding for new innovative medicines for rare diseases, investing €100 million over the last three Budgets’.

During this time, more than 100 new medicines have been approved, including 34 orphan medicines to treat rare diseases. In 2023, the Government has committed €2.7 million to

support the implementation of this Strategy.

Minister Donnelly said: ‘I understand that patients living with rare diseases and their families face huge challenges in managing and treating their conditions, and these challenges are heightened by the lack of information and research into these diseases.

‘As a health service, we are working to change this. Personalised treatments will help transform healthcare provision in Ireland, and this vision has already been laid out with the recent launch of the National Strategy for Accelerating Genetic and Genomic Medicine in Ireland.’

Brendan Behan will be featured in a oneman show by Apres-Match star Gary Cooke

Frank Greally will give pole walking demonstrations

ARE YOU REAPING THE BENEFITS OF OMEGA-3?

Our bodies need omega-3s daily to support good health from early infancy right up to the senior years. Eating oily fish such as sardines, anchovies, mackerel, and salmon, two to three times a week will ensure your body is getting enough omega-3 for a healthy heart, mind and body.Unfortunately, an IPSOS survey found that 89% of Irish people don’t eat enough seafood, so there is often a need to supplement with a premium fish oil such as Eskimo-3.

Omega-3 fatty acids have been well studied for their role in supporting many systems in the body, including cardiovascular, cognitive and visual health. With its high amounts of EPA and DHA, research has shown that Eskimo®3 can also help to maintain healthy blood pressure and reduce blood triglycerides, further supporting cardiovascular health.

Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) is an omega-3 fatty acid essential for brain function and accounts for a huge percentage of the fatty acids found in the brain. DHA is the critical component of cell membranes in the brain and retina, where it is involved in visual and neural function as well as neurotransmitter metabolism. Just as calcium is essential in building strong bones, DHA is essential for good brain health. The importance of these fatty acids becomes most obvious when they’re lacking. People who don’t get enough omega-3 in their diet can become demotivated, disinterested, forgetful and may experience low mood, while serious deficiency can lead to an increased risk of developing cognitive decline.

Mary Conway in Castlebar has been taking Eskimo Brain 369 daily for years... “I find it fantastic for my memory. I used to forget where I left things all the time but now my memory is excellent. I’m 82 years of age and have no aches or pains whatsoever, my skin has a healthy glow and I feel great and love life!”

Award Winning

Eskimo Brain was voted the best product for Mental Health and Wellbeing in the 2022 and 2021 Rude Health Awards.

On the market for more than 20 years and with over 120 scientific studies, the Eskimo range represents probably the finest quality fish oil on the market, providing Omega-3 rich oil of legendary purity, freshness & stability. The premium Eskimo-3 range is available in Health Food Stores and Pharmacies nationwide and online at eskimo3.ie.

Attendance increase at the National Gallery

diverse programme that includes literary fiction, poetry, sports writing, crime fiction and history will be launched, and major writers include Pulitzer Prize-winners Paul Muldoon and Richard Ford. Leading Irish novelists visiting the festival this year include Joseph O’Connor, Liz Nugent and Lucy Caldwell, who will appear alongside new talents such as Nicole Flattery, Nithy Kasa, Sheena Wilkinson and Michael Magee.

The National Gallery of Ireland has announced that over 788,000 visitors were welcomed in 2022, marking the second highest attendance recorded in recent years. In what was a significant re-opening year, following two years of pandemic-related closure, visitor attendance increased by 3.5per cent compared to that of 2019.

In 2022, visitors from Ireland and abroad explored a variety of exhibitions such as Jack B. Yeats: Painting & Memory, Giacometti: From Life, the Zurich Portrait Prize and Zurich Young Portrait Prize, and Turner: The Sun is God. Significant new works displayed at the Gallery included Original Sins by Hughie O’Donoghue and Memento Civitatem by Alice Maher and Jamie Murphy. The Gallery’s wide-ranging education programme, which is tailored to suit all ages and abilities, continued to deliver both in-person and online over the course of the year. Highlights in 2022 included National Drawing Day and the Your Gallery at School outreach programme. A special artist residency with Irish artist and fashion designer Richard Malone took place over the summer months. Malone created a response to the Giacometti: From Life show in his studio situated in the Millennium Wing.

The Gallery also continued to develop its audiences through its website and social media platforms. Ranked as Ireland’s leading cultural institution on social media with over 190,000 followers across Instagram, Facebook, Linkedin and Twitter. This represented a 6% growth year-on-year.

Extensive programme for fifty-third Listowel Writers Week

Running from Wednesday the 31st of May to Sunday the 4th of June, the festival will see leading Irish and international authors converge on the heritage town in County Kerry. A

Music fans can look forward to Irish icon Paul Brady talking about his autobiography, Crazy Dreams Muldoon. Festival guests will be able to attend workshops in poetry, fiction and songwriting with writers and artists such as Stephen Sexton, Wendy Erskine and Mark McCambridge of the band Arborist. Poetry fans can listen to some of the best emerging talents from across the island at a new open-air ‘Lunch Poems’ event, sponsored by Poetry Ireland.

Eimear Ryan, best known as the author of the novel Holding Her Breath, will be talking about her new non-fiction book, The Grass Ceiling: On Being a Woman in Sport, while Paul Galvin, best known as a Kerry footballer-turned-fashion designer, will be talking about his book Threads: Clothes and the Irish Man, a Woven History.

Pauline McLynn promotes stroke treatment initiative

Kerry Group Irish Novel of the Year and Piggott Poetry Prize. A lifetime achievement award will be given to actor and director Stephen Rea.

Stephen Connolly, the first curator in the festival’s 53 year history, said: ‘I am very excited about the upcoming release of a programme that has been in the making for the last couple of months. Since taking up this position, I have fallen in love with Listowel and Kerry, and I can’t wait to bring some new people to the area. The community has been very welcoming and I hope that I’ve served them well in my programming.’ More information is available at writersweek.ie and tickets can be purchased at writersweek.ticketsolve.com

her to help drive greater awareness of its warning signs.

The star, iconic for her role as teaobsessed housekeeper Mrs Doyle in Father Ted, lost her mum Sheila, 86, last October - 17 years after stroke also claimed the life of her father Padraig, 69. ‘I expect it might be written in the stars somewhere for me and it’s simply because my parents have gone that way that I want to highlight it so that people are aware,’ she said.

Pauline, 60, is supporting the Irish Heart Foundation’s ‘Act F.A.S.T. – Minutes Matter’ campaign to drive greater awareness of stroke’s key warning signs: facial drooping, arm weakness, slurred speech - and the crucial importance of time.

‘The F.A.S.T. message is simple and I’d like to think if my name is on one (stroke) that there will be someone close by who knows what to do,’ she said. ‘It is just reminding people to think that way if they have any suspicions, it’s better to be safe than sorry, and time is the one to remember.’

New data shows an alarming decline in stroke sufferers getting to hospital in time to receive potentially lifesaving clotbusting treatment in Ireland.

Only 46% of stroke patients arrive at hospital within the recommended three-hour window, despite quick action potentially meaning the difference between recovery, permanent severe disability or death.

Liz Nugent is one of the many writer appearing in Listowel

Over 20 years after his death

Thomas Myler recounts the life and extraordinary times of one of Limerick’s most celebrated sons

Richard Harris

For a man who relished his reputation as a hell-raiser, womaniser, brawler and boozer, often in the company of fellow actors Richard Burton, Peter O’Toole and Oliver Reed, Richard Harris did well for himself. He collected a batch of awards on stage and screen, and was nominated on two occasions for the movie industry’s highest honour, a Hollywood Oscar.

This was the man who once went out for a bottle of milk and stayed on a five-day binge, with nobody, not even his wife Elizabeth, being unable to trace him. This was the man who argued with Hollywood A-listers like Kirk Douglas, Charlton Heston and Marlon Brando about how scenes should be played, much to their annoyance.

These stories were recounted with a certain amount of hilarity by some but it seems that many were not impressed by the Limerick man’s wild, wild ways. After experiencing rows with Harris on the 1959 movie The Wreck of the Mary Deare, Charlton Heston called him

some unprintable names and swore he would never work with him again. Six years later they were re-united in Major Dundee

Harris had hoped to put it all down on paper and have it published as his official autography. Alas, it never happened. He passed away in October 2022 from a drink-related illness – saying goodbye to the booze in typically stylish manner by purchasing two bottles of Chateau Margaux 1947, costing £325 in sterling, drinking both and never touching the demon drink again.

Journalist and broadcaster Joe Jackson has now done the next best thing, putting together a series of interviews and notes, and has had them published in a fascinating new biography, Richard Harris: Raising Hell and Reaching for Heaven. It is described as ‘the story of the great Richard Harris told for the first time, and in his own words, over 20 years after his death.’

Harris will be remembered as one of the

Raising Hell and Reaching for Heaven

outstanding actors and screen performers of his time. Certainly, his movie portfolio is impressive. It includes The Field, Camelot, This Sporting Life, A Man Called Horse, Unforgiven, Cromwell, The Cassandra Crossing, The Molly Maguires, Major Dundee, Mutiny on the Bounty, The Guns of Navarone, Robin and Marion, Juggernaut, Gladiator and the first two Harry Potter movies, The Philosopher’s Stone and The Chamber of Secrets in which he was a twinkly-eyed Albus Dumbledore.

A proud Limerick man all his life, Harris lived the good life but he pointed out that by saying that ‘living well’ didn’t mean living in luxury. ‘It’s got nothing to do with saying “I’ve got three Rolls Royces, 54 fur coats,” he said. ‘That is not what I mean by living well. Living well is being free, being able to laugh, have a bit of money, helping other people.

Richard Harris will be remembered as one of the outstanding actors and screen performers of his time.

‘I ploughed part of my earnings from my movie This Sporting Life into keeping open my father’s flour mill because I didn’t want him to die feeling he was like a failure. The movie was made by J Arthur Rank, the English film magnate and it was the Rank flour mills in Ireland that bankrupted my father. ‘So, the money I made from This Sporting Life I gave to my father to keep Rank from closing down the mill.’

Asked if there was anything similar he could do to help feeling he himself wasn’t a failure, he replied, ‘Not at all. It’s impossible for me – and I know this is an awful thing for me to say but I’m going to say it anyhow – it’s impossible for me to die a failure.

‘’Why? Because success or failure has nothing to do with what you have achieved in terms of commercial success or your name being above the title, or how long you last as a movie actor or a star. I’ve been with Steve McQueen, who thought he was a total failure and whose life was miserable. Look at poor old Sylvester Stallone. I haven’t got 10 per cent of Stallone’s wealth but I am 100 per cent happier. It’s attitude that is successful.’

Harris recalled the first time he went to Hollywood. It was for a small part in The Wreck of the Mare Deare. It was the story of a mystery ghost ship that looms out of the night, with only a crazed captain on board. Gary Cooper played the crazed captain. The cast also included Charlton Heston and Michael Redgrave.

Richard went there with his first wife Elizabeth, and he recalled that if one was not on the A-list, the City of the Angels could be a living hell. ‘Hollywood is a town where, if you are not making money for the powers-that-be, you may as well be dead,’ he said. ‘So, I’d get excited about working with the actors, although a lot of it was gruelling work. ‘Then I would go back to the miserable motel Liz and I were staying in and get depressed. We’d end up going to see a film, and I’d be sitting there and thinking, “I’m making a picture in Hollywood and here we are like tourists.”

‘The Coopers and the Hestons wanted nothing to do with us. In their eye, we were nobodies. I hated Hollywood. So

many negative feelings I have about the place go back to that period. Finally, because of my black moods and because she missed our young son Damien, Liz went back to London and I finished the film.’

Harris’s subsequent encounter with a Hollywood star, Robert Mitchum along with his wife Dorothy, was far happier. Mitchum came to Ireland in 1960 to make A Terrible Beauty and

rented a house in Bray, Co. Wicklow and Mitchum often made dinner for the Harrises.

‘They were two down-to-earth people,’ Harris said. ‘Mitchum, too, gave me great advice which I never forgot. He took no crap from anyone in Hollywood and he told me not to either. Of course, I wouldn’t have anyway, but at that point, it helped to hear a big star like Bob Mitchum say that to me.’

Richard Harris in one of his most celebrated roles as King Arthur in Camelot

Photo: RNLI/Nathan Williams

Harris claimed he got his first break on the stage from the English playwright Joan Littlewood. After she gave him a minor role in a modern-dress version of Macbeth, he fought with her constantly for bigger and better parts. Eventually she relented and gave him a leading role in Man, Beast and Virtue

He would say that getting that part was the turnaround in his career, and that was where it all began. The glowing reviews he got was a continuation of the upward surge. Then one day, director Cliff Owen was searching for an Irish actor to play the part of a blind man in a TV production of Joseph O’Connor’s play about the IRA called The Iron Harp. Walking past the theatre in London’s East End where it was playing, Harris saw there were glowing reviews on the boards outside. He went in, watched part of the play, and in his own words, was asked to read for the role two days later. However, he had no taxi fare.

‘My wife Liz and I used to laugh about this,’ he remembered. ‘’To get the taxi fare for the taxi ride to the audition, we broke open the gas meter in our little flat. We got the money, the director gave me the script, I read it and got the part. I got rave reviews in the newspapers’.

This led to Bob Evans from the Associated British Picture Corporation offering Harris a movie contract for seven years. Elizabeth always believed that Richard would not have signed that long-term contract had she not been expecting their first child.

Richard made his film debut back in 1958 in Alive and Kicking and played the

romantic lead. Then he was offered Shake Hands with the Devil starring James Cagney, shot at Ardmore Studios in Bray, Co. Wicklow. ‘The best thing about getting that film was getting to work with Jimmy Cagney, one of my childhood heroes,’ he said. ‘I’ll never forget the first time I saw him in the Gresham Hotel in Dublin. I was like a stage-door Johnny. I don’t remember what I said to him but he was a real gentleman.’

Harris will probably be remembered best by modern moviegoers for The Field, based on a story of Kerry playwright John B Keane. It was shot in Galway in 1989. Originally the part of the lead character Bull McCabe had been allotted to Ray McAnally, but when he died suddenly at his home in Co. Wicklow, the producer of the movie Noel Pearson decided that Harris was the best possible replacement. The movie got an Oscar nomination.

‘While walking around on the coast of Ireland making the picture, I had the happiest period of my life. I was never at such peace,’ he said. ‘I gave The Field my heart and soul. People rang me up and said “You’re great in The Field.” But so what? What do I want to do? Be the best actor in the world?

‘I can understand all that for guys of 20 or 30, but I’m 60. I’ve gone through it all. I’ve had huge successes and huge failures, and in between those two forces, the truth is that neither is important. The idea that I’m going to gear my life to work to get a nomination for an Academy Award is ludicrous to me. I will do it not to win but because I love the movie.’

Richard Harris: Raising Hell and Reaching for Heaven is published by Merrion Press www.merrionpress.ie

Richard Harris playing to his hell-raising stereotype

Richard Harris in one of his early successes: This Sporting Life

Richard Harris’s statue as King Arthur in Limerick

Are older people getting a fair deal?

The outlook is good for the health of older people. Ireland has one of the highest life expectancy rates in the world, and is above the EU average, at 82.2. That’s up six years since just the beginning of the 21st century and a new baby born this year can confidently expect to receive a card from the President in 2123 celebrating their 100th birthday!

Around 13.5% of the population is over 65, and this will rise to an astonishing one in four by 2050, according to the CSO. Good for us!

All of this, we know, is down to the economic wealth we enjoy as a first world country (notwithstanding how poor many of us feel at any one time), excellent medical advances and better nutrition and education.

All of this positivity however is tempered by the realisation that being in retirement for half or more of the total years spent earning a salary, is very costly. For those who need assisted care, at home or in a residential setting, the numbers get a little eye-watering. It costs around €1,500 a week for a nursing home bed. Even at home, with

families helping out, the sums can run to hundreds of euro every week for home care services.

In the 12 years since Fair Deal (or the ‘Nursing Home Support Scheme’ to give it its official title) was devised, about 23,000 avail of it at any one time. Given there’s a total of about 26,000 in nursing homes across the country, it means only a small minority are paying privately.

This is because either they don’t want to be part of Fair Deal and can afford to pay, or they don’t qualify (see below). It is always, in my experience, a good idea to run calculations for both scenarios, and this is often the case to be made for avoiding Fair Deal altogether, from a financial perspective, especially where significant assets are involved, either property or business.

The last Government audit of the Scheme in 2018 found that just under €1 billion is being diverted from the Exchequer to ‘prop up’ the cost.  This is because, while everyone contributes to their care based on their resources (calculations below), it often isn’t actually repaid to the State until after their death. In the meantime, the taxpayer stumps up.

Facilities

There are around 550 homes around the country within the Fair Deal scheme. Four out of five of these are privately run. The rest are public nursing homes. Private facilities can take privately paying residents too, while public nursing homes can only take on Fair Deal applicants.

There is no better v worse in public or private (unlike say, hospitals). All are monitored to the same standards by HIQA, and most families go on proximity, availability and good old fashioned ‘gut instinct’.

The HSE pays private and public nursing homes unevenly; something which irks representative bodies of private homes. So, for instance, while it pays a charge rate of €1,564 for each public bed, it only contributes €986 for each private bed – a difference of 62%. So, families are tapped for the extras, in addition to the resident themselves paying a significant amount toward there care from pension and assets.

It is really important to note that the only things covered by Fair Deal Act are accommodation, food, nursing care, laundry service and basic ‘aids and

Sinead Ryan advises

appliances necessary to support with everyday living’. This means a wheelchair for example.

Fair deal does NOT cover anything extra to make life worth living, i.e. therapies, entertainment, newspapers, hairdressing, massage, creams, potions and lotions which are not medically required or any treats at all, unless the nursing home offers them (and in fairness, many do). It also doesn’t include financing days out, respite, transport for family visits, or, somewhat disgracefully, incontinence wear.

For all of these things, there is an extra fee payable by the family of the resident which is not allowed against tax (any fees to pay for nursing home care enjoy tax relief at up to 40%).

Home Care

Home Care Packages (HCPs) are haphazardly offered. Based on budget, geography and availability of personnel, ‘hours’ are agreed via public health centres. Many people supplement what’s available with private hours. These, from a variety of agencies like Bluebird or Home Instead are excellent, but expensive. However, outlay is tax deductible, although only for the payer. Given many pensioners are outside the tax net it means the best advice is to have a 40% taxpayer (son or daughter say) pick up the bill.

There are 56,429 people in receipt of HCPs. There has long been an intention to permit Home Care under Fair Deal, but while there are 4 pilot schemes involving 592 people at present, it’s unlikely to happen soon.

Mary Butler TD, minister for older people, says whatever the outcome of the study, it won’t be ‘fair deal at home’. This is a shame, since the vast majority of people are happy to contribute, valuing a permanency and statutory nature placed on elder care.

Recent Changes

The panel shows how a Fair Deal calculation is made, and most are aware of the family home being in the mix. However, around 4,000 and up to 7,000 houses belonging to nursing home residents are vacant and boarded up because there is no financial advantage in letting or selling up. With a housing crisis on, a welcome change to the calculation of rental income now means that instead of 80% of it being used toward the contribution, just 40% will be taken.

Fair Deal Calculation

There are two requirements before Fair Deal can be agreed: a medical needs assessment, which is via a GP, or Consultant indicating that the patient needs full time residential care, and a

Financial Assessment to calculate how much they will contribute toward the costs of such care.

Fair Deal works by billing the resident 7.5% of the value of their assets (e.g. family home, business, other property etc) plus 80% of their annual income (pensions, rental income - 40% if it applies to the family home, share dividends etc). They can defer the asset contribution until after they pass away, under a loan arrangement and, in any event, the billing on the family home portion is capped after three years (22.5%).

They will never pay more than the cost of care, however, this is not a ‘pooled’ arrangement whereby everyone pays a bit for the good of all, e.g. like insurance. Each person’s contribution is individual, related solely to their means. They get to select the home they wish (subject to bed availability, but there is no shortage), irrespective of its cost.

The alternative is to pay privately. If so, then there is no financial assessment, no contribution from the HSE, and the payer can claim up to 40% tax relief on the contribution. While there are agencies who can assist with the application and calculation, the HSE has an excellent booklet to download (hse.ie, nursing home support scheme) which explains it all simply.

‘Wonderful Things’ in the Valley of the Kings

Eamonn Lynskey recalls the discovery of the tomb of Tutankhamun and the political aftermath

‘.. and when Lord Carnavon, unable to bear the suspense any longer, inquired anxiously: ‘Can you see anything?’ It was all I could do to get out the words, ‘Yes, wonderful things.’

Thus wrote Howard Carter of the moment when with the aid of a candle he peered through a small hole in the final sealed door of the tomb of Tutankhamun, the young king who reigned in the XVIII Dynasty of Egyptian kings in the fourteenth century BC.

The tomb might not have been discovered at all because the British archaeologist Howard Carter was under heavy pressure to abandon his searches in the Valley of the Kings, which had been ongoing for several years. Lord Carnavon his financial backer had by 1922 spent so much money on the excavations that his family fortune was considerably depleted and he had decided enough was enough. Carter however, acting on a hunch and on finding some minor items in a particular area which bore reference to Tutankhamun, pleaded for one more attempt. The peer reluctantly agreed, and so it was that 100 years ago on 26 November 1922 Howard Carter became the first man in modern times to glimpse the treasures that had

been stored in the antechamber of the king’s tomb 3,200 years ago. Tomb robbers had glimpsed them previously in ancient times when they had broken into the tomb on two occasions and had even got as far as the burial chamber itself.

Excavators of other tombs in the Valley of the Kings had always found that thieves had got there first and had stripped out anything of value. The pillaged tomb was always left in a pitiful

The lavish treasures found in Tutankamen’s tomb is evidence of his high status and of the regard and importance attached to his reign.

Travelling with Expressway and your Free Travel Pass has never been easier.

Free Travel Pass holders may now reserve their seats online at expressway.ie for just €2 per trip.

When booking tickets, make sure to select ‘Seat Only Reservation – Free Travel Scheme’. Then simply enter your payment details, no need for your Free Travel Pass number! Travel without a booking is still welcome if we have room on board, but priority boarding will be given to those with a reserved seat. Seats may also be reserved at ticket machines in stations. Please remember to bring your Free Travel Pass when travelling.

BOOK NOW AT EXPRESSWAY.IE

Waterford Greenway

WITH LUTEIN, MESO-ZEAXANTHIN AND ZEAXANTHIN

MacuShield Original + and MacuShield Original chewable contain B2 and MacuShield Gold contains zinc, both help to maintain normal vision

LISTOWEL WRITERS’ WEEK

Ireland’s Oldest Literature Festival

31st May–4th June 2023

Workshops, readings, performances, and discussions with leading writers in the beautiful town of Listowel, Co. Kerry.

More info at writersweek.ie

OPW

Dún Aonghasa

Dún Aonghasa

Dún Aonghasa

BUY AN OPW HERITAGE CARD & EXPLORE IRELAND’S WONDERFUL HERITAGE

BUY AN OPW HERITAGE CARD & EXPLORE IRELAND’S WONDERFUL HERITAGE

Castletown House and Parklands

Castletown House and Parklands

Castletown House and Parklands

BUY AN OPW HERITAGE CARD & EXPLORE IRELAND’S WONDERFUL HERITAGE

Jerpoint Abbey

Jerpoint Abbey

Jerpoint Abbey

Donegal Castle

Donegal Castle

Free admission to more than 45 of Ireland’s finest heritage sites

Donegal Castle

Free admission to more than 45 of Ireland’s finest heritage sites

Unlimited access for up to one year

Free admission to more than 45 of Ireland’s finest heritage sites

Unlimited access for up to one year

Unlimited access for up to one year

Heritage Cards can be purchased online at www.opwheritagecards.com or in person at participating heritage sites

Heritage Cards can be purchased online at www.opwheritagecards.com or in person at participating heritage sites

Heritage Cards can be purchased online at www.opwheritagecards.com or in person at participating heritage sites

Find us on Facebook

Find us on Facebook

Full details: www.heritageireland.ie

Find us on Facebook

Full details: www.heritageireland.ie

Full details: www.heritageireland.ie

BUY AN OPW HERITAGE

Harry and Meghan – have we been here before?

A senior British Royal Prince, internationally popular, forward thinking and in line to the Throne –and in love with a divorced American. A family rift over his future royal roles, and titles, all played out against international interest. Worldwide interest in his book, recounting his view of events – and finally, his departure, to a life abroad. By now, you might be thinking `Is there no escape from the Harry and Meghan story?’ But the Prince in question doesn’t refer, of course, to Prince Harry. It relates to another British royal duke, -plus an earlier scandal and family rift over ‘ the Woman I Love.’

Some nine decades ago, in 1936, Prince Harry’s great-grand uncle Prince Edward ascended to the British throne. He would reign for one year as King Edward VIII, before abdicating in December 1936, determined to marry the divorced American, Wallis Simpson. The British nation was stunned. Like Prince Harry, he was hugely popularboyish, attractive, a charmer and great fun. He was an ideal Prince for a modern

age, enjoying flying, fast driving – and nightclubs.

Edward grew up with five brothers, including Queen Elizabeth’s father, `Bertie’ and a sister, Mary, in a traditional, possibly stifling family. He was close to his brothers, and kept an especially close eye on his younger sibling, the glamorous Prince George. He spent time in the army during the First World War, as Prince Harry did during the Gulf War - experiences which brought out the serious sides of both men. Edward was then sent off on various world tours around the then Empire. By the 1930s, as Prince of Wales, he had, thanks to popular newspapers and cinema reels, worldwide fame, with considerable interest in his girlfriends.

However, unlike Harry of course, he could not be seen to be linked with young single girls – reputations in those days were easily damaged, so his female friends and companions were all safely married. One of these society beauties was Lady Freda Dudley Ward, and his `set’ was regularly seen in the most

Unlike Harry, the Duke of Windsor could not be seen to be linked with a divorcee such as Meghan Markle.

desirable London nightclubs, and society events. His home was the 18th century gothic style Fort Belvedere, not far from Windsor. It allowed some privacy for entertaining – with guests including Wallis Simpson, an American divorcee who had re-married an anglo American businessman.

The famous photographer Cecil Beaton knew Wallis, and intriguingly reported that the first time he met her, in the early 1930s, he thought her ‘raucous’ and dismissed her, perhaps snobbishly, as ‘awful, common, vulgar, strident, a second hand American with no charm’. However, intriguingly by 1936 he had changed his mind ‘Now she is all that is elegant. The whole of London flocks after her as the mistress, and possible wife of the King..I am certain that she has more glamour and is of more interest than any public figure.`

So what changed? Wallis Warfield grew up, the daughter of a widow, and the classic poor relation in a comfortable Pennsylvania family. Not a beauty, she nevertheless knew how to attract people

Lorna Hogg compares the uncanny parallels between the Harry and Meghan saga and that surrounding the Duke of Windsor and Wallace Simpson

THE MARITIME HOTEL IN THE HEART OF WEST CORK

How worried are you this winter?

We all know that energy costs are rising and at an alarming rate. Many of us are worried about how we are going to meet these extra costs, but for people who had polio higher energy costs threaten their health and even their lives.

Those who had polio as babies or young children continue to endure challenges that are increasing as they age. Though often forgotten, polio survivors still require support, particularly as they are impacted by Post Polio Syndrome (PPS).

This syndrome causes chronic pain, fatigue, reduced mobility and susceptibility to hypothermia. Keeping warm through winter is a challenge.

Polio survivors’ extreme intolerance to cold puts them at risk of hypothermia.

Even in summer they have to light fires and wear extra layers of clothing, such as pyjamas under trousers. Some will stay in bed all day for warmth, leading to isolation. Or they may even cut back on food to afford heat.

We have to respond.

Our winter heating support payment, of €125, is provided to those polio survivors on the lowest incomes. On top of other essential services to survivors, we estimate this will cost us €25,000 to fund. This will have to come from donations and other fundraising.

Your support can make a massive impact:

If you can help, by donating any amount, it could make a tangible difference to someone who has to choose heat over food.

and in Florida, met flying instructor Win Spencer, whom she married in 1916. They were not happy, and separated, but Wallis later travelled out to him in Hong Kong, where he was stationed. She also spent a `lotus year’ in Peking. The couple divorced in 1927. Wallis next married dual American/British citizen shipping executive Ernest Simpson, and moved to London. There, she encountered famed society hostesses, entered café society –and morphed into a woman described as ‘charismatic, electric and compulsively ambitious’

A chance presentation to the Prince of Wales was memorable – for him. The Prince politely enquired whether, like many Americans, she was missing their famed central heating. Wallis replied ‘I am sorry sir, but you have disappointed me.’ ‘In what way?’ asked the startled Prince. ‘Every American who comes to your country is always asked the same question. I had hoped for something more original from the Prince of Wales’ Clearly, this was a woman to be reckoned with. But of course, Edward was not the only royal Prince to be intrigued by a feisty female. Legend has it that Camilla, the present Queen Consort, was said to have greeted King Charles III with the now famous line ‘Your great grandfather and my great grandmother were lovers. How about it?’ In reality, it seems that

they were introduced by a friend, who reputedly told them to be careful, as they had 'genetic antecedents!’ In July 2016, when Prince Harry, delayed in traffic for his first `blind’ date with Meghan, called her on his mobile to explain, she was initially unimpressed. When he finally arrived, a flustered Prince had to do some apologizing to win her over.

In the 1930s, the British press had a `gentleman’s agreement’, on the private lives of the royals and did not report on the increasing presence of Wallis in the Prince’s life. Society, however, kept note of the Prince’s ‘close companions.’ In January 1934, one of them, Lady Thelma Furness asked Wallis to ‘keep an eye on the little man’ whilst she went on a trip to the United States. Wallis followed orders to such an extent that when Lady Furness returned in March, her calls to the palace were no longer put through. Wallis had indeed kept an eye on the ‘little man’. She was now the King’s new ‘close companion’.

King George V died on January 20th 1936 and the full machinery of pageantry came into play. One of the most important initial ceremonial events is The Proclamation, at London’s St. James’s Palace. The ceremonial has been traditionally been witnessed only by officers of state. However, it was televised

for the first time when King Charles III ascended the Throne in 2022. The fact that in 1936, Wallis Simpson appeared, on St. James’ Palace balcony, as the new King Edward’s guest at his Proclamation, was a signal of just how important she was in his life. The press could not ignore the fact.

In the 1930s, the Monarch, as Head of the Church could not marry a divorced woman. A Morganatic marriage was deemed impossible. There is speculation that Wallis, perhaps grasping the situation better than the King, offered, in vain, to step aside. The King’s determination could not, however, be ignored after the famous late summer Mediterranean `Nahlin’ cruise, when Wallis was photographed at his side. Edward soon had to face the fact the fact that the government would almost certainly resign if he persisted. There would also be public division, when the press, on December 3rd, ended their silence on his relationship. His people were not in favour of him marrying a divorced woman. Worldwide speculation was rife, especially after the Nahlin cruise – and Wallis’s divorce from Simpson. However, it still came as a shock to the nation, when he signed his formal Abdication on 11th December 1936, followed by his famous broadcast that he had ‘found it impossible to carry out

The Duke of Windsor, and Wallace Simpson married in Paris in 1937 and spent the remainder of most of their lives there.

my duties, as I would wish to do, without the help and support of the woman I love’. A Royal Navy cruiser left Britain for France, at midnight, 11th December, carrying the ex-king – and his pet dog.

The couple was separated for seven months, until Wallis received her divorce. By then, Edward had been granted the title of Duke of Windsor, and they married on June 3rd, 1937, at the French Chateau de Conde. However, as with Prince Harry, his wife was not created HRH. A furious Duke of Windsor instructed his staff to curtsey and refer to Wallis as HRH. World wide press interest continued, but war was at hand, and Edward was sent to The Bahamas as Governor, from 1940-45. Historians have recorded the couple’s later progresses around Europe and the United States, as they sought to create a new life together. They eventually settled in a villa on the edge of the Bois de Boulogne in Paris.

It has been said that the British Royal Family cut them out completely, and that Edward’s attempts to repair the situation were rejected. However, very recently, historian Andrew Lownie has revealed some new facts, taken from German documents, suggesting that Edward at that time veered dangerously close to traitorous behaviour. He spent time with some top Nazis, and was entertained by Hitler on various occasions. He spoke warmly of his admiration for Germany – leading some to consider rumours that a German victory in the War would

put him back on the British Throne, essentially in a puppet government.

After the war, Edward and Wallis settled into the life enjoyed by wealthy socialites - spent between their Paris home and their trips to the United States, plus European `seasons’ and cruises – as Britain slowly recovered from the war. In 1952, King George VI died, and Edward attended the funeral. As with Prince Harry in a later era, there were debates about finances - and Edward also wrote his memoirs. However, modern observers have pointed out that the Duke of Windsor had opted out of the royal family when he left – whilst Prince Harry

wanted a `half in-half out’ situation. Queen Elizabeth visited them in May 1972, by which time Edward was very frail but still devoted to Wallis. He died on 28th May 1972, and after a fully regal funeral, joined other Royals, at the Frogmore burial ground, Windsor. Wallis lived on until April 1986. Ironically, she finally joined the Royal family - in death, alongside the Duke, at Frogmore. Her true feelings about her choices remain unknown – but we have one thought provoking comment ‘You have no idea how hard it is to live out a great romance…’

The Duke of Windsor and Wallace Simpson met Hitler several times, raising alarm within the British secret services

The Duke of Windsor making his famous abdication radio broadcast

My trip to Morocco was so much more than a holiday, it was an experience! In fact, it was a series of jaw dropping experiences that I will cherish forever. We're not talking about the usual lovely but forgettable holiday vistas, seen in the usual resort type places, with the usual familiar sounds and scents . An action packed week in a joyously diverse culture, where we were privileged to experience the out-of-the-ordinary on a daily basis.

One of the first things you will notice about Morocco is the welcome; and that welcome started in an unusual place, at the passport check area. There was a sincerity about the "Welcome to Morocco" and "Enjoy your visit " from the officials that resonated. Our group of twenty adventurers also felt that same warmth of welcome when we met our TD active Holiday guides Saida, Ibrahim and Ismail. In the sweltering heat, we gladly boarded the two mini buses that were to take us some 1800 kilometres over the next week.

Entering Marrakech is a culture shock; it's a dynamic, chaotic city; traffic zooms left and right, three people to a moped, with a sound backdrop of lightly beeped horns and the streets alive with traders.

Everything in motion and yet, it all works. When we reached our Riad style hotel, which was close to Jemaa el-Fnaa, (the main square), we were welcomed (again !) with the delicious drink of Morocco - sweetened peppermint tea and admired the architecture and decoration of this traditional style house which had been converted into a hotel. Our guides talked us through the plan for that evening. They expressed their welcome with such care and kindness

that we all felt secure in the knowledge that we were going to be well looked after. We headed out for dinner, zig zagging through narrow streets before reaching Jemaa el-Fnaa. It was a jaw dropping moment. The square itself is huge, it looked about the size of Croke Park and was packed with life. There was entertainment of every kind; snake charmers, crowds gathered around storytellers, monkey trainers, musicians with percussion instruments beating a

Cathy O’Connor was blown away by her guided trip to the vast and diverse landscape of Morocco

Marrakesh market

pacy rhythm, the aroma of spices and herbs and traders pitching their products to the meandering families.

The restaurant with its second floor open air terrace overlooked the square and offered us another perspective on the life buzzing below us. Our food arrived and I experienced a culinary first .. tagine. This delicious mainstay dish is a slow cooked casserole of meat, vegetables, spices and dried nuts and very, very tasty. Our table was noisy with chatter which stopped almost instantly for Adhan, the call to prayer. The timbre and resonance of the voice of the Muadhdhin was haunting; it seemed to cut through the chaos and touch our souls. A calmness and stillness seemed to descend. Life had taken a pause.

The next day we explored Marrakech. With its rich history, this is a city with many cultural attractions. We craned our necks to take in the height and magnificence of the Koutoubia Mosque, the highest building in Marrakech. From there, we walked through a maze of streets to reach Bahia Palace. Craftsmen from all over the country came to work on this mansion and so it is a feast for the eyes with exquisite artistry, vibrant colours and the striking patterns of mosaic tiles. The Dar Si Said, the oldest museum in the city, offered elegant patios, vivid stained glass and tranquil gardens.

Heading for Casablanca, one of the real pleasures of a trip like this is getting to know your fellow travellers. TD active Holidays are the perfect option for those

who like to explore and make the most of their time off.It's all the pleasure and none of the pain. All the pleasure of discovering new places and new vistas. None of the pain of organizing any of it! Our group was a varied one; all ages and all backgrounds and yet with one common thread, a love of travel and a love of adventure.

Casablanca is the commercial and industrial hub of Morocco, a port city on the Atlantic. Less of a tourist destination than Marrakech or Fez, it's home to the magnificent Hassan II Mosque. This is the second largest Mosque in the world with the world's highest Minaret. It houses 25,000 worshippers and can accommodate another 80,000 in the courtyard outside. Our well informed guide talked us through the construction, the exquisite artistry that decorates

every centimetre of surface and the daily rituals of this holy place. An invaluable insight into a very different culture. Dinner that night was full of stimulating conversations about what we had seen and of course, very tasty food!

It was then time to get going as we were headed for the capital, Rabat, some 300 kilometres away. Morocco is a huge country, about six times the size of Ireland. The landscape is vast and diverse; there's lush, verdant green areas and boundless, barren scrubland. We passed through bustling villages and more structured towns. With a few stops along the way, we arrived at the modern and historic city of Rabat. Perched on the south bank of the Bu Regreg river and overlooking the city, the 12th century Hassan Tower is a minaret of what was to be the largest mosque in the western world. Although the mosque was not completed, it remains an imposing and impressive landmark. From there we went to The Kasbah of the Oudayas. Entry to this residential area is via enormous Almohad gate, called Bab Oudaia.

The next day we set off for the former capital of Morocco, Meknes (also known as The Imperial City) . Founded in the 11th century as a military settlement on a hilltop, it's home to an enormous imperial complex, with a town wall spanning 120 kilometres. The intricate decoration is outstanding, created by an army of artisans, culminating in the monumental gate, Bab Mansur, a masterpiece of Hispano-Moorish art. Thanks to our guide Ibrahim, each of these historic sites unfolded another

Marrakesh

A typical Moroccan market

chapter in Morocco's complex and fascinating history. Some 65km outside of Meknes lies the captivating UNESCO site of Volubilis, an important outpost of the Roman empire dating back to the third century BC.

The following day we explored Fes, known as the cultural capital of Morocco and deservedly so. Our local guide brought us to Morocco's largest and oldest Medina. It's a maze of almost 10,000 very narrow streets; atmospheric, bustling and wonderfully chaotic. Traders offer everything from iphones, spices, trainers, meat, wedding dresses, fresh fruit juice, rugs ; it's all there, all happening, all of the time! Our guides knew exactly where to take us, so we could relax and enjoy the experience. We didn't have to worry about how to get here and there, we had the freedom to just amble along and see this intimate slice of Moroccan life.

Amidst the hubbub, they are spectacular sights. The oldest university in the world and UNESCO world heritage site, the Karaouiyne University is viewable from the outside to non Muslims. We visited a tannery and were fascinated to see the arduous process of treating leather, all done by hand (and feet) in the scorching sun. In our high tech world, it was a rare opportunity to appreciate the demand and craft of traditional crafts. As we weaved through those topsy turvy streets, there was any amount of good humoured banter from the street traders. They have the mastery of engagement down to a fine art, with a keen ability to

read potential customers that was very entertaining.

After such a busy , exciting morning, we welcomed the retreat of lunch at a nearby restaurant. Everywhere we ate, the food was just delicious, with its blend of Mediterranean, Andalusian and Berber influences. Sweet, savoury and sour flavours are often seasoned with lemon, dried fruits and spices. That afternoon we spent lazing around the pool, feeling very lucky to be there.

Our destination the next day was the Sahara Desert, some 500km away. We travelled through extraordinary landscapes; weaving our way into the vast Middle Atlas Mountains and then into the contrasting abundance of the cedar forests at Azrou. After many enjoyable stops along the way, we reached the village of Merzouga . It was quite a sight to see our transport into the desert .. a herd of camels! Much laughter was had as we tried to mount these docile creatures, all of us looking like some strange extras for another adaptation of Lawrence of Arabia. Our camels moved at a slow and easy rhythm, although it took us some getting used to going up and down the soft dunes. The sun was setting as we arrived in our rather luxurious glamping tents in the isolated desert.

Being there was an experience I'll never forget. There was calming stillness and silence that engendered a feeling of tranquility, as if time itself had stopped. Dinner was a lively affair as we were

entertained by the nomadic musicians. Sleeping under the stars was a magical treat. Even though I was somewhat weary from travelling, I rose to see the sunrise. There was something divine about welcoming that day; the landscape slowly changing colour as the bright sunlight emerged.

Having left the desert , our first stop was at the Todgha Gorge. The setting could not have been more dramatic as the gorge is enclosed by steep and sheer cliffs. Families were dotted everywhere around the river savouring the coolness of the water. Makeshift picnics were enjoyed, music was playing, children were squealing with delight as they splashed about. That sense of enjoyment was to be alive and kicking at our hotel in the spectacular Dades Valley. Our night was made particularly special by the manager of the hotel, Mohamed. A group of very talented local musicians played for us into the wee hours.

It was time to return to Marrakech with plenty of worthwhile stops along the way. Ait Benhhadou is a UNESCO listed heritage site. Formerly the caravan route between the Sahara and Marrakech, it is renowned for its earthen clay architecture. Many films have valued the magic of this fortified village and surrounding areas; Game of Thrones, The Gladiator and Lawrence of Arabia, to mention but a few.

After the expanse of the Atlas Mountains and the Sahara Desert, it was quite an adjustment to encounter the traffic and vibrant life of Marrakech! As it was our last evening, we all went out for a special dinner. Friendships were made, numbers were exchanged with much cheering and laughter around the table. Our lovely TD active Holiday guides gave each of us a small gift which was a testimony to their kindness and welcome.

TD active Holidays Explore Morocco trip is priced from €1199pp and everything is included from flights, accommodations, transfers to an expert local guide. Departures take place in May and September so to book visit www.tdactiveholidays.com or call (01) 6371615 to speak to a member of their expert team.

Exploring the Sahara desert

BOOK ONLINE FOR EXCELLENT VALUE RESTAURANT & RACING OFFERS

CHECK OUR WEBSITE FOR ALL THE DETAILS AND LOCATIONS

IRISH MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION COIMISIÚN LÁMHSCRÍBHINNÍ NA HÉIREANN

IRISH MARITIME TRADE IN THE RESTORATION ERA: the letterbook of William Hovell, 1683–1687

edited by James O’Shea

The merchant community of Cork in the 1680s was dominated by Protestants like William Hovell. This letterbook — a rare example from the period — provides records of Hovell’s dealings with merchants in Dublin, London and the English provinces, and of his involvement in the export of products from the farms and fisheries of Munster, as far afield as the Mediterranean and across the Atlantic. It also sheds light on contemporary politics, and the unravelling of Hovell’s Protestant-dominated world in the early years of the reign of James II.

ISBN 978-1-906865-63-4, €40, 2022

curtha in eagar ag James O’Shea

Bhí forlámhas ag Protastúnaigh ar nós William Hovell ar phobal ceannaithe Chorcaí sna 1680idí. Sa leabhar litreach seo — sampla annamh ón tréimhse — tugtar taifid ar ghnóthaí Hovell le ceannaithe i mBaile Átha Cliath, i Londain agus i gcúigí Sasanacha, agus ar an mbaint a bhí aige le táirgí a onnmhairiú ó fheirmeacha agus iascaigh na Mumhan, chomh fada i gcéin leis an Meánmhuir agus trasna an Atlantaigh. Tugann sé léargas freisin ar an bpolaitíocht chomhaimseartha agus ar dhomhan Protastúnach Hovell a bhí ag titim as a chéile sna blianta tosaigh de réimeas Shéamais II.

ISBN 978-1-906865-63-4, €40, 2022

Ronnie plays the game like an artist. If he was going around in the eighties he would probably have won a dozen world titles, probably more

The Two Ronnies

In the last few years the normally clinical Ronnie O’Sullivan has started to play as if he’s at exhibition matches. ‘I have nothing to prove anymore,’ he says. But as long-time fan Aubrey Malone observes, ‘That’s okay, but sometimes he seems to throw away matches and that isn’t fair to his fans’

Ronnie O’Sullivan is going for his eighth world title this year at the age of 47. It’s an amazing situation to be in. Most players retire before they get anywhere near that age. Ronnie has been threatening to retire almost since he went professional but he’s still hanging in there, being a role model for senior citizens the world over.

‘My main interest these days is running,’ he says. Punditry comes a close second. In the old days when he lost a match he left the venue to lick his wounds. These days he’s more likely to hang around and commentate on how the other players are doing.

A lot of the improvement in his attitude is down to his ‘mind guru’ Steve Peters. Peters has been his right hand man for many years now. He’s the person who keeps Ronnie’s demons in check, who tells him that the reality of life is that you lose more than you win and it’s important to develop an attitude towards that. When Ronnie started out he couldn’t conceive of losing. He was that good. But he didn’t win his first world title until 2001. Being the genius he was, that frustrated him.

He won 72 of 74 matches when he turned pro in 1992. I don’t think anyone will ever have that kind of record again. Neither do I think anyone will equal Ronnie’s record of world titles. Hendry has seven as well but Ronnie won them in different decades. That’s the difference. His career has a much bigger

wingspan than Hendry or Steve Davis. Davis won six world titles, all in the eighties. Hendry won all his in the nineties. It’s become harder to win them as each decade has gone on. There are no easy matches anymore. Even the ’numpties’ as Ronnie calls them, can clear the table if they get a chance.

My first snooker hero was Alex Higgins. Jimmy White followed in his tradition but he never won a world title despite being in six world finals. He was Ronnie’s hero like he was mine. These are the three most exciting players in the game.

Ronnie plays the game like an artist. If he was going around in the eighties he would probably have won a dozen world titles, probably more. But he says he’s not interested in silverware. His main focus is the way he plays. He said to me once, ‘I’d prefer to play well and lose than play bad and win.’ How many players would speak like that? Probably nobody but himself.

He's close to perfection when he chooses to play at his best. Like Jimmy White, he often makes the game look ridiculously easy. I remember when Cliff Thorburn made a 147 break in 1980 there was great excitement over it. Ronnie is already thinking of a 147 after he pots a single red. After potting a red once, he asked the referee, ‘What are they offering for a 147?’ Everyone laughed but he was serious. For someone to take the game to that level is uncanny if we think of a 147 like a hole in one in golf or a nine dart finish in darts.

Ronnie is in the tradition of Jimmy in the sense that he plays an attacking game that leaves itself open to counter-atacks if the plan goes wrong. Jimmy once said to me, ‘I’d like to be remembered as someone who won the game playing it the hard way.’ He certainly played it the hard way but he didn’t always win. He played too many kamikaze shots. Both Ronnie and I were frustrated by the fact that he didn’t win enough.

As a result of Jimmy’s failure to capture ‘the big one,’ as he calls it, he looked instead to Steve Davis as a model. He could never be said to play like Davis but he admired his self-belief. Ronnie should have won at least a dozen world titles on his ability. The reason he hasn’t is often down to the fact that he refuses to ‘close down the shop,’ as they say, to protect his leads.

This has become more worrying in recent times. Since he won his seventh world title last May he won two invitational tournaments but since then he’s been without a trophy. He’s also got beaten by people who never beat him before in their whole career. That’s why he isn’t the favourite to retain his title this year. There are too many variables. But if he did it he would finally end the debate about who’s the greatest player of all time. (For me that debate was over many years ago).

In the last few years, Ronnie has started to play as if he’s at exhibition matches. ‘I have nothing to prove anymore,’ he says. That’s okay, but sometimes he seems to throw away matches and that isn’t fair to his fans.

So who’ll win it this year? The smart money will be on Judd Trump, Neil Robertson or John Higgins. Mark Selby is also a threat. He’s a master at closing down the shop. I think Selby has about ten things on his mind when he plays a safety shot, not just getting the cue ball on a cushion but also the object ball, and putting other colours safe into the bargain if he has a lead he wants to protect. If he was born with Ronnie’s talent I think he’d have won about ten world titles. I believe the same principle applies to Roberton, Higgins, Mark Williams and any other player in the top eight that you care to mention. But we can’t be who we’re not. That’s probably what makes sport interesting, people’s flaws.

Claire Roche Singer/Harpist

Claire would like to invite you and your friends to a private concert in her home in Blackrock, Co.Dublin.

Afternoon tea concerts or evening concerts with wine and finger foods available too .

You can also stay for B & B .

For a short video of Claire’s house see:aboutwoodford.com

Alternatively Claire can travel countrywide to perform in your home or public space.

You can hear and see Claire perform on clairerochemusic.com.

Please tell your friends about her next performance in Dublin which was postponed last year due to Covid :

The John Field Room, National Concert Hall, Dublin.

Friday April 28th at 1.05 pm.

Claire will sing, accompanied by her harps, well loved Irish songs including The Spinning Wheel and Danny Boy etc.

Included in her programme will be her settings of W.B Yeats set to music with harp accompaniment, and Claire’s original songs inspired by her childhood home which was once a miniature farm .

For further information phone Claire at 087 2895525, or email claire@claireroche.com.

Come and see my Free performances at the 50 Plus Show at the RDS on April 15th and 16th.

Long-time fan Aubrey Malone with his hero

Bridge

Michael O’Loughlin has enjoyed teaching bridge for over 40 years; his book, “Bridge: Basic Card Play” is available from the Contract Bridge Association of Ireland (01 4929666), price:€10.

Calling all Novices –Intermediates!

by Michael

The Rule of Twelve

O’Loughlin

(2) Lacking all intermediate cards, i.e., Tens and Nines which are better at generating tricks than lower cards.

(2) Lacking all intermediate cards, i.e., Tens and Nines which are better at generating tricks than lower cards.

(3) Tricky rebid if partner were to respond 1♠

Open the bidding with 12 points. That is the general rule. Let us look at the exceptions to the rule, i.e., 12 point hands that should not be opened:

(A) ♠Q972 ♥QJ uQJ ♣KJ842

The reasons for not opening:

(1)Honours in your short suits; it is preferable to hold honours in your long suits. Honours in your long suits makes it easier to build tricks.

(3) Tricky rebid if partner were to respond 1♠

means that the fourth player is sitting on a powerhouse. If you open 1NT you may get doubled and go for a big penalty. And for what – because a bad 12 facing a passed partner cannot yield game; you risk going for 800 to win a part-score at best. Vulnerable – that’s madness!

A final category of 12-point hands that should not open is a bad balanced 12 in third position. Pass – Pass – to you often means that the fourth player is sitting on a powerhouse. If you open 1NT you may get doubled and go for a big penalty. And for what – because a bad 12 facing a passed partner cannot yield game; you risk going for 800 to win a part-score at best. Vulnerable – that’s madness!

A final category of 12-point hands that should not open is a bad balanced 12 in third position. Pass – Pass – to you often means that the fourth player is sitting on a powerhouse. If you open 1NT you may get doubled and go for a big penalty. And for what – because a bad 12 facing a passed partner cannot yield game; you risk going for 800 to win a part-score at best. Vulnerable – that’s madness!

(2)Beware of hands with lots of Quacks. Quacks, doubleton Queen/Jacks, are of dubious value as they are so vulnerable to opponents’ Ace/Kings.

(3)An Aceless hand. Aces are controls. An "aceless" hand should be downgraded.

(B) ♠K ♥Q963 uAQ73 ♣J1042

The reasons for not opening:

(1)your ♠K is worth less because you have no choice about when to play it. If an opponent lays down the ♠A, you won't be able to play a low card on the trick. You will have to play your singleton king under the ace. So sad.

(2)Bad shape: 4-4-4-1. 4-4-4-1 is not a strong hand-shape for building tricks. Often with a 4-4-4-1 shape it’s better to defend because you know that the four suits are breaking badly for declarer. Most partnerships will deduct a point for the shape alone. Also, it would not be unknown to pass on a thirteen-point 4-44-1 hand containing a singleton King or Queen. Remember that if you pass and an opponent opens the bidding in your short suit, you will have the perfect shape for a take-out double.

(C) ♠Q2 ♥AJ63 uJ6542 ♣KJ

The reasons for not opening:

2NT Pass 3NT End

If East had opened 1NT, he’d have played there doubled and would not have diagnosed the Club layout. He’d win the third round of Diamonds with the Ace, lead to the ♣Q, then back to the ♣10. He’d score just 3 tricks: ♥A, uA and ♣Q – resulting in minus 1100.

To reiterate: The default setting is to open a 12-point hand. However think twice about opening 1NT in third position after two passes.

https://www.andrewrobson.co.uk/andrew/tips_for_intermediates

Never ever forget, Bridge is a game all about tricks, not points.

(1) Opening 1NT facing a passed partner will yield a part-score at best and risks going for a big penalty if (as here). If you open 1NT, South has a big hand (and doubles). You are simply putting your head on the guillotine for South to chop off.

(1) Opening 1NT facing a passed partner will yield a part-score at best and risks going for a big penalty if (as here). If you open 1NT, South has a big hand (and doubles). You are simply putting your head on the guillotine for South to chop off.

(1) Opening 1NT facing a passed partner will yield a part-score at best and risks going for a big penalty if (as here). If you open 1NT, South has a big hand (and doubles). You are simply putting your head on the guillotine for South to chop off.

On our 3NT deal, West led the ♥9 (leading high for hate rather than 4th from the top). East won with the ♥A and found the one card in his hand to beat the contract: ♣10. East’s ♣10 and ♣8 surrounds dummy’s ♣9. This is called a Surround Play or a Sandwich Play. If, instead, East had returned the ♣5,

On our 3NT deal, West led the ♥9 (leading high for hate rather than 4th from the top). East won with the ♥A and found the one card in his hand to beat the contract: ♣10. East’s ♣10 and ♣8 surrounds dummy’s ♣9. This is called a Surround Play or a Sandwich Play. If, instead, East had returned the ♣5,

(1) Honours in your short suits; it is preferable to hold honours in your long suits, making it easier to build tricks.

(2) Lacking all intermediate cards, i.e., Tens and Nines which are better at generating tricks than lower cards.

(3) Tricky rebid if partner were to respond

A final category of 12-point hands that should not open is a bad balanced 12 in third position. Pass – Pass – to you often

On our 3NT deal, West led the ♥9 (leading high for hate rather than 4th from the top). East won with the ♥A and found the one card in his hand to beat the contract: ♣10. East’s ♣10 and ♣8 surrounds dummy’s ♣9. This is called a Surround Play or a Sandwich Play. If, instead, East had returned the ♣5, declarer could play low from hand and West would have to win with the ♣Q, leaving declarer with the ♣AJ over East’s ♣K10. On the lead of the ♣10 from East, declarer covered with the ♣J, West winning the ♣Q and returning the ♣6 to the ♣7, ♣8 and ♣3. Declarer won the ♣K continuation with the ♣A and tried the uK but East won with the uA and cashed the ♣5. Down one.

If you wish to receive three emails which include lessons, videos & quizzes, Free bridge emails

If you wish to receive three times per week free bridge emails which include lessons, videos & quizzes, please email me: michaelolough@yahoo.com

Let your love of dogs live forever.

When you join Valerie and Rowley and include a gift to Dogs Trust Ireland in your Will, your love of puppies and dogs can live forever. Through this very special gift, you can help create an Ireland where all dogs have a happy, healthy life in their forever home.

TO FIND OUT MORE and request your FREE guide visit DogsTrust.ie/Legacy or call us on 01 879 1832.

“Dogs Trust gives dogs a second chance – with a gift in my Will I can do the same.”

Valerie.

Valerie’s dog, Rowley.

Getting started: for absolute beginners

Bridge is a game of two halves. The first half consists of an auction, also called the bidding. The auction determines whether the hand is to be played in No Trumps, i.e., without a trump suit or with one of the four suits as the trump suit. If you and your partner have a bit of everything in all four suits – what’s called a Balanced Hand - then you would like to play the hand in No Trumps because this will give you the best score (the scoring will be explained later). On the other hand if your side has a lot of cards in a particular suit then it’s to your advantage to make that suit the Trump Suit because if it is, you will win a lot of tricks. For example, if you have 4 cards in one suit and 3 cards in each of the other 3 suits (a Balanced Hand) it's to your advantage to play in No Trumps for the best score. However if, for example, you happen to have 6 or more cards in a particular suit then you would like that suit to be the Trump Suit in order to get the best score. The auction will determine which situation prevails and also how many tricks you need to win in order to make your contract. The final bid is called the contract. After the auction is over then the play of the cards begins.

In bridge classes we teach the play of the cards first because the auction makes more sense after students have gotten a feel for the play.

In the auction (bidding) if the final or highest bid is ‘No Trump’, then the contract is a No Trump contract. However, if the final or highest bid is either Clubs, Diamonds Hearts or Spades – as determined by the bidding process which takes place before the play of the

any card in the trump suit when others have played cards from non-trump suits will win you the trick. But always remember you must Follow Suit and can only Trump when you have no cards in the suit which has been led.

Half the time in bridge there is not a trump suit, i.e., all four suits are of equal value when it comes to the playing of the cards. This means whenever a Diamond is led, for example, whichever player at the table plays the highest Diamond wins that trick.

However, the other 50% of the time one of the four suits is designated as the trump suit. This is determined by means of the bidding (also called the ‘auction’) which takes place in advance of any cards being played. Bridge really is a game of two halves: The Bidding, followed by the Play of the Cards. A trump suit outranks all cards of the three non-trump suits. The trump suit is the master suit.

When a suit becomes the trump suit, any card in that trump suit potentially has special powers; any card in the trump suit can win a trick over any card of another suit. For example, suppose that Spades is the trump suit and an opponent leads the Ace of hearts. You can still win the trick with the 2 of spades (assuming that you have no Hearts in your hand and therefore you cannot follow suit)

Imagine you are Declarer and that there is a Trump Suit. As soon as you win

https://www.andrewrobson.co.uk/andrew/tips_for_intermediates

their Trumps. This is called “Drawing the opponents’ Trumps” or “Taking the children off the street”.

To be continued in the next issue.

Bridge courses for beginners and improvers

For anyone who is interested, I’ll be running a Bridge Absolute Beginners course from the 26th – 30th of November 2023 in The Falls Hotel, Ennistymon, Co. Clare.

(Tel: 065 7071001 ). No prior knowledge of bridge required or expected. New: Bridge Breaks At Improver Level commencing in Knock House Hotel. Please contact these hotels directly for details (Tel: 094 9388088.).

If you wish to receive emails which include lessons, videos bridge.

• Connect with everyone at the table. Bid and play and go over the hands afterwards to learn from the post mortem.

• Connect with everyone at the hands afterwards to learn from

If you wish to try RealBridge for free, just email me: michaelolough@yahoo.com

If you wish to try RealBridge for free, michaelolough@yahoo.com

The History Of Bridge (Part 3)

All I said was: ‘I know you started to learn bridge this morning, Reggie, but what time this morning?’ – but he didn’t like it.

P.G. Wodehouse

All games of high character become perfected by degrees; and Bridge, following this rule, has been formed by gradual development.

Bridge is a trick-taking game which evolved from Whist; Whist has been played for centuries. Whist is the direct forerunner of Bridge. Before the days of auction bridge and contract bridge it was a very popular game indeed, but today Whist has been superseded by Bridge.

Whist can trace its ancestry at least to the early 16th century in England (first reference 1529 in a published sermon by Bishop Latimer) and through succeeding centuries when prototype forms of whist were played under such names as triumph, trump, ruff, slam, ruff and honours, whisk and swabbers, whisk, and whist. Whisk may have referred to the rapid action of sweeping up the cards after winning a trick, or whist as a call for silence – the Irish expression “Hold your whist!”. The game was popular under its modern name of whist by the middle of the 17th century, but it was not until 1742 that the first book devoted to whist appeared: Edmond Hoyle’s famous Short Treatise on Whist. This rapidly became a best seller, and many pirated editions appeared immediately afterwards.

The first game of duplicate whist was played in London in 1857. It was intended to demonstrate the advantage accruing to skilful play, and a team of supposedly good players was deliberately pitted against supposedly poor opposition (there having been no previous criterion for judging them). The good players won easily. This procedure all but eliminated the luck of the deal. Duplicate offered the possibility of replacing private play by public contest.

Major steps forward occurred in 1891 with: the foundation of the American Whist League; the invention of the Kalamazoo tray (first duplicate board); and the first book on tournament organization, written by John T. Mitchell who devised the first movement for a pairs competition and described the method of match pointing which has been used ever since.

Although the American Whist League was to flourish for some 40 years, Bridge, the game that eventually led to its decline and fall, had come on the American scene early in the 1890s, at about the time it was also introduced in England. In London, members of the Portland Club began to play bridge in 1894 introduced by Lord Brougham who had learned it in India and Cairo. The next major change took place in France, where the game of Plafond was played in 1918. In all such games each side had to bid to its plafond or ceiling: only tricks bid and made counted toward game

Up to this point whist, bridge whist, auction bridge, and plafond had simply evolved, which is generally the way with card games. No individual can be given credit for inventing the dummy, the idea of bidding, the auction principle, or the ceiling principle of plafond. But in 1925 Harold S. Vanderbilt perfected a new form of the game, embodying the Plafond principle but including the element of vulnerability and producing a scoring table that corrected the major faults in plafond. He succeeded so well that his game of contract bridge became the staple diet of card players everywhere.

HAROLD S. VANDERBILT, the father of contract bridge. He earned world‐wide renown as a yachtsman, winning the America's Cup three times, but his most enduring fame is likely to come from his contributions to bridge.

As mentioned earlier the idea of bidding to the partnership “ceiling” had been embodied in the French game of plafond, which was a major step forward from auction bridge. But it was not until Mr. Vanderbilt's historic cruise to Havana in 1925 that the modern game of contract evolved. The factor of vulnerability and the increased bonuses for slams set the infant game on a path that it has followed, with minor divergencies, ever since.

Not content with devising a beautifully balanced scoring table for contract, Mr. Vanderbilt also invented and publicized the first contract bridge bidding system. This was the “Club Convention,” which required an opening bid of one club on all strong hands. The “Club Convention” rapidly disappeared from regular play when bridge became a game for the masses under the dynamic leadership of Ely Culbertson, but the principle that Mr. Vanderbilt espoused has since been recognized to be sound.

The Neapolitan/Blue Club System, which has helped Italy to win numerous world championship titles, revived interest in One Club systems, and Howard Schenken has had considerable success with his “Big Club.” Both these are closely related to Mr. Vanderbilt's original system.

Millions of bridge‐players all over the world owe him a deep debt of gratitude for his creative genius. To be continued.

Pole walking proves popular

This has been a significant and welcome development for both the physical and mental health of many thousands of people who are now reaping the benefits that regular walking delivers.

One positive thing about the pandemic was that it slowed down the pace that many of us were setting for ourselves in our daily lives. It forced us to pause, take stock and make some longneeded adjustments such as taking time to walk and observe nature in parks, trails and woodlands.

In recent times, a new brand of walking which involves the use of Nordic and Activator poles has been fast gaining popularity throughout the country.

County Mayo native Frank Fahey has been a pioneer and leading exponent of fitness walking in Ireland for over two decades and a driving force behind Nordic and Activator Pole Walking.

Frank taught physical education for ten years, before taking up a post as National Sport for All Officer with the then Irish Sports Council (now Sport Ireland) and then two decades ago he began working as an independent consultant in physical recreation and active living.

After observing the rapid increase in the number of people walking for fitness and wellness, he launched his company FitWalk Ireland with a mission to promote fitness walking and to help and encourage people to add value and variety to their regular walking.

"From the start, my focus through FitWalk Ireland has been the promotion of functional fitness through walking," Frank

said. "Functional fitness is what's required to manage the physical challenges and demands of daily life and the key components are mobility (of the joints), aerobic fitness (of the heart and lungs); and strength (in key muscle groups). If we are advancing in years, we also need to include balance, which involves the brain. My recommendation for adult fitness walkers are: to aim for somewhere between 5,000 and 10,000 steps a day - some of which should be aerobic in nature; raise heart rate and breathing and incorporate activities to improve or maintain, mobility, strength and balance.

"Normal walking will certainly accumulate steps and bring some improvements in physical terms. However, in order to optimise aerobic fitness (heart and lungs)), we need a higher level of intensity. Normal walking does not improve mobility, strength or balance to any great extent.

"In a fitness walk there should be good posture, active engagement of the arms and upper body, better propulsion from the feet, and improved stride pattern and gait. This will considerably improve aerobic fitness (burning more calories) and should also incorporate activities to improve mobility, strength and balance.

"I suggest that many fitness walkers need to 'change up a gear' and make their walk more purposeful. That doesn't mean walking faster; often it's a matter of using a different walking technique like power-walking or stride-walking.”

It's only in recent times that Frank Fahey has begun to see an explosion of interest in Pole Walking - Nordic and Activator Poles.

For many years now, Frank has been a lone crusader for fitness walking - covering the entire country and working closely with

Frank Greally reports that research into participation in physical activity clearly shows walking to be by far the most popular form of exercise among Irish adults.

Neville Hotels have properties in four prime locations along Ireland's Ancient East. Picturesque Dún Laoghaire along Dublin Bay, the stunning setting in the ‘Garden of Ireland’

Co. Wicklow, the heart of vibrant Kilkenny City and the bustling centre of historic Waterford City, making them make the perfect choice for holidaying in Ireland.

• Historic and iconic four-star hotel

• Located in the coastal town of Dún Laoghaire, overlooking Dublin Bay

• Dún Restaurant and Hardy’s Bar & Bistro

• sansanaSPA & Pier Health Club

• Five-star resort, located only 30 minutes from Dublin

• Award winning Hugo’s Restaurant and the Garden Rooms and Bar

• Spa & Health Club

• Two championship golf courses

• On the banks of the River Nore in the Medieval City

• Riverside Restaurant and Riverview Bar

• The Terrace with picture perfect views under the magnificent Kilkenny Castle

• Four-star city centre hotel

• Located in the heart of Waterford City

• Hobson’s Restaurant and Pier 37 Bar & Grill

• Health Club with swimming pool

the Local Sports Partnerships and communities. "There's not a county that I have not visited and I greatly admire the work that the Local Sports Partnerships are delivering to help people of all ages develop and maintain an active lifestyle,” he said.

Why pole walking?

A wide and growing body of research suggests that regular use of walking poles can : improve posture and walking gaitreduce joint impact - especially ankles, knees. and hips; develop the range of motion of the shoulders and the spine and increase muscle strength in the upper body - especially arms and core. Use of activator poles can also enhance stability and reduce the fear of falling.

There has especially been a huge and sustained interest in the take-up of Activator Poles in Ireland over the past three years and a growing interest among adults and people with balance concerns or mobility issues.

"Feedback from participants in the Activator Programmes has been hugely positive , " Frank Fahey said. "I am particularly happy with reports that the poles have given a new impetus and hope to people with health issues and disabilities." Here's a short guide to Nordic and Activator Poles

Nordic poles

Nordic walking originated in Finland and is now popular with people all over the world as a simple-yet-effective form of exercise. The poles incorporate special straps and are held at an angle as you walk. The technique requires that the poles are planted into the ground, and a push is applied with straight arms which results in the body being propelled forward. Nordic walking is an ideal progression for walkers wishing to gain more fitness benefits from their walking program. A short tutorial can have you quickly pushing forward with purpose in a new direction.

Activator poles

Activator Poles are an adaptation of Nordic Poles and have been developed by therapists in Canada to cater for people who have balance concerns or mobility issues, but want to walk for fitness. The Activator Poles are used in a forward position, unlike Nordic Poles which trail behind and propel the walker forward. This forward position gives stability, support and confidence to people worried about their balance (or falling) and enables them to get up and going again with renewed purpose and enthusiasm.

The development of Fit Sticks Trails is the latest development in FitWalk Ireland's efforts to promote Pole Walking. They will work with local authorities, Local Sports Partnerships Health Organisations and Community Development Bodies to establish a network of Fit Sticks Trails to enable pole users to undertake short fitness walking sessions comprising of WarpUp and Cool-Down phases displayed on well appointed notice boards. In addition to the newly launched Fit Sticks Trail in Portarlington, further trails are planned for Ballinrobe in Mayo and Naas in Kildare.

There is a lot of activity ongoing at Fitwalk Ireland- all positive and purposeful. Further information from: info@fitwalkireland.com

Benefits of walking for breast cancer suvivors

There is much research to suggest that walking with poles helps breast cancer survivors reduce the impairments on shoulder function caused by surgery. The technique improves range of motion and enables users to better perform activities of daily living, regain an independent lifestyle and improve quality of life.

Just recently, the East Galway and Midlands Cancer Support Centre commenced a pilot study with Athlone Institute of Technology to assess the effectiveness of an Activator Poles Programme on the physical and psychosocial health of individuals living with and beyond cancer.

Arthritis

Using walking poles

- reduces pressure and impact on the joints of the lower body

- assists with ascending and descending steps and inclines

The handles of Activator Poles are designed to reduce the need for a tight grip.

In both Kildare and Kerry, members of the local branches of Arthritis Ireland have been polewalking for over a decade and reporting great success.

Keep in touch with YOUR Fitness Walking Storiesfrankgreally@gmail.com Contact Fitwalk Ireland at: info@fitwalkireland.com

World Down Syndrome Day 2023

World Down Syndrome Day is celebrated annually on the 21st of March and is a global awareness day that has been officially observed by the United Nations since 2012. The date is set on the 21st day of the 3rd month as a representation of the extra copy of the triplication (trisomy) of the 21st chromosome that people with Down syndrome are born with.

World Down Syndrome Day 2023

Each year, Down Syndrome International develops a theme which forms the basis of a global campaign in line with the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. Down syndrome communities from across the globe come together to raise awareness and take steps towards full and effective participation and inclusion for people with Down syndrome across the globe.

The theme this year is “With Us Not

For Us” and is focused on a human rights-based approach to disability – the right to be treated fairly, have the same opportunities as everyone else, and the freedom for people to make their own choices. We’re calling on all supporters and organisations to work

#WithUsNotForUs to improve the lives of everyone with Down syndrome.

How can you help celebrate World Down Syndrome Day?

This March, Down Syndrome Ireland invites you to get your friends, family, colleagues, schools and communities involved to raise awareness and some much-needed funds – let’s get people talking on World Down Syndrome Day. It’s really easy to join in with what’s happening around the country across our 25 Branches. You can follow us across social media to keep updated and show your support for the wonderful work being done by our members, families and volunteers.

Wear Lots of Socks

The Lots Of Socks campaign exists to raise awareness about Down syndrome and taking part is very easy. All you need to do is choose some socks that are going to get noticed and share your photos across social media using #LotsOfSocks4DSI and let your feet do the talking!

When someone asks you about your socks you can tell them, “I’m wearing them to raise awareness of Down syndrome and World Down Syndrome Day on 21st March”. Then you can tell them everything that you think they need to know about Down syndrome and encourage them to get involved.

Please share your photos and videos with us at @DownSyndromeIreland on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn and TikTok. Use the official hashtags below to help spread awareness this World Down Syndrome Day with Down Syndrome Ireland.

Western Ways

George Keegan on what’s happening in travel, the arts, food and entertainment along the Western Seaboard

The fascinating discovery of the Doolin Cave

A short distance from the busy village of Doolin in North West Clare where thousands of tourists take the ferry each year to the Aran islands you will find the Doolin Cave, known locally as Pol an Ionain. Here you can view the Great Stalactite, the largest in Europe and third largest in the world.

The story of the cave’s discovery is a fascinating tale. In 1952 a group of cave explorers from the Craven Hill Potholing Club in the Yorkshire Dales arrived in the Burren to check out the scene. Some stayed at a hotel in Lisdoonvarna and others set up camp close to the town. Two of the young men Brian Varley and J.M (Mike)Dickinson decided to explore on their own at a place they had spotted the previous day. Walking over the unique limestone rock pavements they came on a small stream which they followed. When it suddenly disappeared under a cliff face they began to crawl underground to investigate further. After 500 metres to their astonishment they arrived at a large chamber containing the 7.3 meters long stalactite weighing 10 tonnes suspended from the roof. During the following 40 years many potholers crawled along the same route to view this enormous stalactite.

During the 1990’s John and Helen Browne, who owned a successful restaurant in nearby Doolin, came up with the idea of opening the cave to the public as John had an interest in caving during his youth. They set about purchasing the land. However as the Great Stalactite is so delicate people voiced concerns that if the cave was opened up it might suffer irreparable damage. Because of this there were a number of objections and also major planning issues to be overcome. Following ten years of fighting their case the Brownes eventually persuaded the council to give the green light. Great care was of course required during the cave development so a ‘plug and feather’ method was used instead of normal explosives.

In 2006 the cave opened to visitors with a Park & Ride system in place from Doolin. Four years later the construction of a dedicated Visitor Centre was agreed by the council. This building, which blends really well into the surrounding countryside, was designed by Argentinian senior project architect Josefina Fernandez Frelier who lives in Limerick. Well known broadcaster the late Marian Finucane officially opened the new Centre in July 2010. It was decided to dedicate the building to the memory of John and Helen’s great friend the noted journalist, teacher and writer the late Nuala O’Faolain

who died two years previously. A plaque was erected to her memory and placed at the entrance to the Centre. A second plaque on the wall is to the memory of Fr. Michael McNamara, Helen’s brother and another great supporter of their project.

A tour begins by entering the cave on ground level beside the Visitor Centre then descending 10 flights of stairs with a landing on every 10 steps. While some degree of fitness is required Helen says they frequently receive visitors in their 70s and 80s . At the bottom of the steps a safety helmet is issued and a pathway is then follwed along a small stream to the main chamber where the Great Stalactite is suspended. In a second chamber visitors can view many interesting geological features including fossilised remains of sea creatures and some bell formations on the roof.

Nature trail

If the cave itself is not your thing, then bring the family, especially young children, along to enjoy a super day out at Doolin Cave by taking the circular1km nature trail. Along the way they will encounter many farmland animals such as goats, hens, chickens, sheep and donkeys. Afterwards drop by the café at the Centre run by the Wild Catering Company for a drink or

The celebrated 7 metre long Doolin stalactite The Doolin Cave Visitors Centre

EXPLORE THE JOY OF CLASSICAL MUSIC WITH NAXOS

RACHMANINOV

LEGENDARY

Now available as a 9CD set

Sergey Rachmaninov, The Philadelphia Orchestra

“Naxos is part of every music lover’s life” – Gramophone

Western Ways

bite to eat. There is also a small shop close to the ticket office. Speaking to me about the overall project Helen is full of praise for the tremendous support they received from both Nuala and Fr.Michael. Last year was the 70th anniversary of the cave’s discovery and to her great delight she welcomed a very special visitor - Brian Varley one of the two original students aged 90 years. “He went down the steps to the cave without a bother”, she says. John and Helen are currently in the process of retiring and their daughter Jennie is all set to take over the reins. Second daughter Caireann runs a successful pottery business in Cork. She collects clay from the cave and produces a range of bespoke pieces including souvenirs / presents ideal for people to purchase after their tour of the cave as a reminder of their visit.

A cap of 55,000 visitors annually is in place and each group tour consists of not more than twenty people, so advance booking is essential. The cave and facilities are fully open from

Ballina celebrates 300 years

Ballina in North County Mayo is geared up to celebrate the 300th anniversary of it’s founding by Lord Tyrawley in 1723 with a full programme of events planned throughout the year.

The celebrations are expected to create a wonderful community spirit within the town and surrounding area as well as being a major boost for the local economy with festivities set to attract many extra visitors.

The year began in earnest with a visit by Vincent Guérend the

French Ambassador to Ireland in early February to unveil a new digital arts installation using light and sound named Mise en Lumieres. It was located at the town’s Humbert Memorial Monument. The unveiling also signalled the launch of the ‘Year of the French’ to celebrate the 225th anniversary of the French landing in nearby Kilcummin, led by General Humbert in 1798. The installation was first presented at the Palais Galliera (Musee de la Mode, Paris) and was adapted for its first appearance here in Ireland. A stand alone French Festival will take place later in the year from 19th – 22nd August.

Easter to September and at week-ends during winter months. Doolin Cave is a member of the Burren Eco Tourism Network where each of the 60 businesses involved assist in promoting each other.

St. Muredach’s Cathedral, Ballina where Handel’s Messiah will be performed

The French General Humbert, who landed his troops in Kilcummin in 1798 will be celebrated in The year of the French.

Connacht Fleadh

Towards the end of June the town will host the Connacht Fleadh showcasing traditional music and dance from North Mayo and West Sligo.

Former President of Ireland Mary Robinson is a native of the town so Ballina 2023 together with the Mary Robinson Centre, Mayo County Council and the University of Galway will hold a week- long international sustainability assembly ( 4th-8th July). That programme will focus on the theme of sustainable development and enabling grass roots community climate action, exploring both the international and local perspective, connecting communities, practitioners, agencies and government through dialogue, deliberation, arts and music.

A special highlight of the year is certain to be the involvement by Galway based internationally acclaimed spectacle and street theatre company Macnas who

will work with over 200 community participants to develop and stage one of its renowned parades on the 15th July. This will be part of the Ballina Salmon Festival with street markets and live music.

The previous week the spotlight focuses firmly on the river Moy with a day long celebration of water based activities and cultural events.

During the autumn the Royal Hibernian Academy is set to collaborate with Ballina and bring a collection of more

A special highlight of the year is certain to be the involvement by Galway based internationally acclaimed spectacle and street theatre company Macnas

than 50 works by current members. The exhibition named ‘RHA West’ will feature such well known artists as Mick O’Dea and Geraldine O’Neil, sculptors Ellis O’Connell and Eileen McDonagh, plus several multi- media artists.

Saturday 11th November will feature another first for the town with the staging of Handel’s Messiah at St. Muredach’s Cathedral. The Cathedral choir are due to perform under the direction of Regina Deacy and the concert will include guest orchestra and soloists.

Visitor attractions in Ballina include the Jackie Clarke Museum on Pearse Street and Belleek Forest Park along the river bank, home to wild flowers and excellent birdlife.

Useful websites doolincave.ie doolin.ie ballina2023.ie wildatlanticway.com

GPO Museum, O’Connell Street, Dublin

Explore

the

1916 Easter Rising and Modern Irish History

The GPO (General Post Office) is one of Ireland’s most famous buildings and the award-winning GPO Museum is a must-see on any day out around Dublin. Witness Ireland’s history from revolution to modern times dramatically unfold before your eyes!

The building was the headquarters of the 1916 Easter Rising which set in motion an unstoppable chain of events which would ultimately lead to the creation of the Irish Republic. The Iconic GPO building is the headquarters of the post office in Ireland as well as being an enduring symbol of freedom

to over two hundred years of history and it remains one of the oldest operating postal headquarters in the world. Key moments that shaped Ireland’s history are brought to life through electronic touch screens, video, audio visual booths, sound and authentic artefacts. A highlight of the visit is the film which was specially created for the experience.

For further information visit www.gpowitnesshistory.ie. For bookings contact +353 (0) 1 872 1916 or email info@gpowitnesshistory.ie

FROM SHIPPING CONTAINER TO CLINIC EMERGENCY RESPONSE

COSTS

A 50 m2 structure takes 20 to 25 days to fully kit out and install, at a cost of approximately €4,800.

HEIGHT: 280 CM

“It’s not quite as high as a standard room, which is three metres,” says Musa. “But you probably wouldn’t notice unless you were very tall.”

PLACEMENT

“One of the biggest problems we faced was putting the containers in place,” says Musa. “It’s a large hospital complex with many buildings, so you can’t just drive it in on a truck. We ended up fitting them out in a workshop off-site, then using a crane to lift and place them where we needed them.”

Please credit illustration: richardpalmergraphics.com

IN EMERGENCY SITUATIONS, IT’S OFTEN SPEED OVER PERFECTION WHEN IT COMES TO LIFESAVING CARE.

FACED WITH AN INFLUX OF PATIENTS AND A SHORTAGE OF SPACE, THE MSF TEAM AT HERAT REGIONAL HOSPITAL IN AFGHANISTAN HAVE DEVELOPED A QUICK AND SIMPLE SOLUTION: CONVERTING SHIPPING CONTAINERS INTO CLINICS.

Please donate today

1800 905 509

or visit msf.ie

In the past we usually relied on large tents for extra capacity,” says Musa, MSF logistical coordinator. “But with winter approaching, we needed structures for our staff and patients that were more robust. That’s when we saw the potential of shipping containers.” “What’s good about the containers is that they’re multi-purpose and easy to adapt,” says Musa. “You can cut walls out and weld a series of containers together to create a larger structure and, once the basic layout is in place, it’s simple to install windows, electricity and plumbing.”

Musa’s team have installed insulation, internal walls and tiles. They have also

FOUNDATION

A simple foundation of concrete blocks supports the structure. An empty six-metre-long container weighs 2,050 kg. The foundation blocks are constructed to carry the additional weight of 10 people, plus beds and equipment, per every six-metre container.

added air conditioning units to cope with the harsh summers and heating for the equally harsh winters.

“It was a process of trial and error for the first conversion,” says Musa.

The containers are now used as hospital wards, an emergency room, triage and feeding centres. There are plans to expand their use further in other MSF projects.

“We’ve passed both the summer and winter tests with no complaints from staff or patients,” says Musa.

This simple solution has already been expanded to meet needs in emergency situations where MSF is working.

Are you having the romantic life you have always wanted?

Welcome to the club that has many members who feel the way you do! Romance is always simple and carefree in the movies and when we use our imagination. Why is that? Why is it so easy for us to fantasize about the most amazing romances, but can never find such romances that really exist? Does it just not happen? Is there no such thing? No, there is no such thing as a romantic dream come true until you make it happen. That’s’ right, you carry the key, you’re in control.

Did you expect that you could wave a magic wand, miraculously bringing you the woman or man of your dreams? That one day he or she would come knocking on your door. Well, if that is what you’re waiting for, prepare to keep on waiting. The first thing you must do before finding your soul mate, is know who you are and what you are looking for. What qualities are important to you? What are your morals and beliefs? It’s important to ask yourself these questions before going out there. Giving yourself an interview will make things clearer of what type of person you are really looking for, instead of just going on a blind search.

Society has changed dramatically over the past 60 years. In the fifties’ men and women met at the “Ballroom of Romance” i.e. the local dance hall where

live bands like The Miami Showband would play every Saturday night. The “slow sets” as they were known, enabled people to get up close, and this was often the start of something special.

With the advent of Rock ‘n Roll the dance halls vanished and opportunities to meet partners were greatly reduced. The coming of television did not help either as it was now cheaper or easier to sit in front of the Gogglebox. What happened to good old-fashioned courting and good manners and is it true that Ireland has more bachelors than other European countries?

These factors, with others, had the effect of greatly reducing opportunities of meeting your soul mate through family and friends. As Jennifer Haskins, a trained psychologist and founder of Ireland’s Premier Dating Agency- Two’s Company puts it “Matchmakers” have stepped into the shoes of family and friends, we’re doing the job that parents did for their children. Due to the high level of separation and divorce we now cater for the older age group too and believe it or not our oldest member is 80.

So, how do we meet this special person and how do we do it safely? While we have become reliant on our basic instincts and intuition, many of us are

often too prepared to open up and trust someone we have only just met.

Dating is an enormous growth area and there are 4 principal avenues, small ads in the newspaper, online, dating apps or introduction agencies/ Matchmaking agencies. Online dating requires you to put your details on the internet for strangers to read and then contact you, and while for a lot of people this can be a negative experience, it is potentially the riskiest place to find a partner as these sites do not screen their members at all.

With all these factors in mind Dating Agencies are still the most professional, personal, and safest way to meet a life partner.

We attract genuine respectable people who are looking for something authentic and sustainable. People are being honest and the seek life partners, not casual dalliances!

We specialise in long term relationships and partnerships that bring real genuine people together for love and companionship.

So, if you’re unattached and would like some quality companionship or a loving partner give Two’s Company a call today 01-4304017 www.twoscompany.ie

“This is without question the best gel on the market. It’s like I have received a knee replacement!”

Paul M, Dublin

Dublin Dossier

Pat Keenan reports on happenings in and around the capital

The best of times, the worst of times in changing Dublin..

Recently Irish Times columnist Finn McRedmond wrote of how novelist Sally Rooney may have changed the global view of Dublin with its very own zeitgeist, more cosmopolitan, hosting people from all our counties and beyond from abroad with different ethnicities, beliefs and cultures. McRedmond makes a clever analogy using the famous TV series Sex and the City, involving four varied women with the fifth character - New York City itself. The amazing success of Sally Rooneys three novels – Conversations With Friends, Normal People and Beautiful World Where Are You, have placed images of a modern Dublin on to a global stage. Here I must confess, I haven't read any of them but in mitigation, I did watch the entire TV version of Normal People. But not just Dublin has changed, the entire Republic of Ireland has been adapting through time since independence. More recently that transformation seemed to have accelerated through a period of many dramatic social shifts; made obvious beyond doubt when in 2015 we became the first country in the world to permit gay marriages; when we elected a young gay man as Taoiseach in 2017 and when we overturned our abortion ban in 2018.

Some of our readers will have lived through these changing times, although I keep forgetting our latest readers were only born in 1973. They won't have remember Nelson's Pillar, the Royal, Clery's Ballroom or the Metropole. Our new readers were just babies when Pete St. John had an idea for a song recalling Dublin in the Rare Ould Times. Readers born before the '70s may possibly have lived through the worst of times, widespread poverty, alcoholism, often aggressive; a time when Rome ruled, banned literature, newspapers, magazines, contraception methods; abortion and gays. Rigid nuns imprisoned unmarried women, stole and sold their babies. Remember the last of the Magdalene laundries, the one in Sean McDermott Street, only closed in 1996. It was sadly a very judgmental era 'educated' by a clergy of priests, nuns and brothers, some aberrant and with the seal of approval of a compliant state. A time of mass emigration mostly for work and for some, the likes Edna O'Brien and Colm Tobin came to Dublin to escape the judgements of rural parish-pump. Some left for freedom of expression - James Joyce loved his city but couldn't live in it.

But Dublin like capital cities elsewhere may have been more liberal and fair-minded even in those times. We know there were many groups rescuing girls imprisoned in Magdalene Laundries, sometimes organising emigration for them. Remember the Irish Women’s Liberation Movement disembarking at Amiens Street Railway Station from the Belfast ‘Contraceptive Trains’ to faced down the moral police that made up our customs examiners. A feminist group established the Contraception Action Programme (CAP) and openly sold condoms at the Dandelion Market, then at Leeson Close in a disused warehouse next to Saint Stephen’s Green. CAP distributed contraceptives in Dublin housing estates, their caravan in Ballymun sold condoms and distributed information leaflets listing doctors who would prescribe the pill. This resulted from the notorious 1978 Health (Family Planning) Bill, brought in by Charles Haughey requiring a doctor's prescription to purchase condoms and spermicides in chemist shops or family planning clinics. In 1985 a Fine Gael and Labour coalition government approved the general sale of contraceptives in Ireland. That was a turning point and the first-ever defeat of the Catholic Church on Irish social legislation.

At a time when many countries had anti-gay laws old Dublin pubs managed to combine an eclectic way of thinking and of doors open to all. Bartley Dunnes on Stephen’s Street Lower (now replaced by Break for the Border) was such a place. It

James Joyce loved his city but couldn't live in it.

EXCLUSIVE MIDWEEK BREAKS THIS SPRING

MARCH & APRIL 2023

Bed and Breakfast | 3 Course Evening Meal

Complimentary Residents Entertainment Nightly**

2 Nights B&B with 1 Evening Meal

3 Nights B&B with 3 Evening Meals (4th Night B&B FREE March & April 2023)

ENTERTAINMENT BREAKS THIS SPRING

MARCH & APRIL 2023

Bed & Breakfast | 3 Course Evening Meal Nightly Entertainment**

Social Dancing Break 26th - 30 th March

from €339pps*

from €139pps*

from €239pps*

*€25 Single supplement nightly. **Entertainment subject to change.

www.gleneaglehotel.com | 064 6671550

Killarney, Co. Kerry, Ireland

Dublin Assay Office is recruiting a Part-Time Accounts\Administration Assistant

Dublin Assay Office carries out the statutory function of testing and hallmarking articles of precious metal. The service is provided by a small team of staff based in Dublin Castle; we now wish to recruit an accounts\administration assistant.

Position: Part-Time Accounts\Administration Assistant

Reporting to: Financial Controller

Working Hours: Half or full days (2-3 days per week) – details to be confirmed

Contract: Initially for 6 months with a view to permanence.

Description:

This role supports the finance team in the administration and account’s function, with the following key responsibilities:

• Processing sales invoices and customer receipts daily

• Issue monthly statements

• Maintaining bank receipts/reconciliations including customer credit card transactions

• Maintaining membership register and renewals

• Processing customs clearance documentation

• General office administration

• Other accounts duties as assigned from time to time

Skills/Experience Required:

• Some experience in accounts assistant role

• Customer service focus with good communication skill

• Good attention to detail

• Computer applications experience Microsoft Office and accounts package is desirable Training will be provided on customs clearance.

Please submit CV to careers@assay.ie with Accounts Assistant in the subject line.

4 Night B&B with 4 Evening Meals

Country Music Break 17th - 21st April

4 Night B&B with 4 Evening Meals

from €349pps*

Dublin Dossier

was partly gay and it was also place where a young man could take a girl for an intimate night out in one of its dimly lit nooks and alcoves. Actor Richard Burton in a break from filming The Spy Who Came In From the Cold(1965) took his wife Elizabeth Taylor there and another actor Laurence Harvey in a break from shooting Of Human Bondage(1964) took Kim Novak there in an attempt to soften their famously frosty relationship - it didn't work. Another example of cosmopolitan Dublin was

Pillar to spire

the publicly acknowledged gay relationship of Hilton Edwards and Michaél Mac Liammóir. They were even jointly created freemen of the city of Dublin back in 1973. Further back in 1960 Mac Liammóir had received the Lady Gregory Medal

1963. At Micheál's funeral in 1978 the President Patrick Hillery

The Dublin spire and Nelson’s Pillar before its was blown up

Another anniversary, this year the Spire in O'Connell Street is 20 years old. It was unveiled on January 21,2003, replacing Nelson's Pillar bombed down to a stump in 1966 by republicans. The stump was later removed by the army. As a child I remember climbing the 168 step spiral stairway to the top, a single hand rail on the wall side, nothing the other, eventually reaching the viewing platform just beneath British Vice-admiral Horatio Nelson’s boots. Our Nelson's Pillar rose to a height of 41m (134ft.), London's column, which doesn't have a viewing platform, went higher to 52m.(169ft.). The Spire is much taller at 120m (394ft.) Perhaps aptly a British architect

Ian Ritchie designed the spire replacing a British naval hero. Ritchie’s design was chosen as part of a Dublin Corporation Millennium celebrations monument competition and as first phase of the rejuvenation of O’Connell Street. Ian Ritchie described it as ‘one of the most audacious things I have ever done or tried to do’. The return of Clerys this year will continue that progress.

Brendan Behan at 100

Of the more than one hundred museums in Dublin, MoLI Museum of Literature Ireland containing treasures of our rich literary heritage, is one of the newest and one of the best.

To mark the centenary of the birth of Brendan Behan, MoLI have an exhibition called The Holy Hour A Requiem for Brendan Behan. It runs from 10 March until October 2023. Created by author Patrick McCabe (The Butcher Boy, Breakfast on Pluto, Poguemahone) it celebrates Behan as man and artist and mourns 'the essential tragedy of his short life'. This audio-visual installation according to the website (www.moli.ie)

'brings visitors on a profound, often hilarious – at times almost psychedelic – voyage through glimpses of Behan’s life and work. Through the prism of the Roman Catholic liturgy, McCabe’s 'Holy Hour' blends archive footage, heavy lashings of music, and Behan’s own words to cast the Dublin writer in a more nuanced light'.

You can book online. Open 10.30am–6pm, Tuesday to Sunday.and bank holiday Mondays. Adult €12 Over 65s €9.50 MoLI, Museum of Literature Ireland, UCD Naughton Joyce Centre, 86 St Stephen's Green, Dublin 2, www.moli.ie

Be part of someone’s future

Be part of someone’s future and make the BEST WILL IN THE WORLD

By leaving a gift to GOAL, you will help some of the most vulnerable communities to respond and recover from crisis.

Be part of someone’s future and make the BEST WILL IN THE WORLD

By leaving a gift to GOAL, you will help some of the most vulnerable communities to respond and

GOAL is supporting families driven from their homes in Ukraine

For over 45 years GOAL has been working as agile first responders, protecting some of the

For over 45 years GOAL has been working as agile first responders, protecting some of the

For over 45 years GOAL has been working as agile first responders, protecting some of the world’s most vulnerable people in some of the worst humanitarian crises.

That work is not possible without the generosity of people like you.

That work is not possible without the generosity of people like you.

That work is not possible without the generosity of people like you.

Will you help us to continue our work delivering aid and support to those who need it most? By leaving a gift to GOAL you can. In doing so you’ll help create a better more resilient world.

Will you help us to continue our work delivering aid and support to those who need it most? By leaving a gift to GOAL you can. In doing so you’ll help create a better more resilient world.

Will you help us to continue our work delivering aid and support to those who need it most? By leaving a gift to GOAL you can. In doing so you’ll help create a better more resilient world.

Registered Charity No. 20010980; CHY 6271 Company No. 201698

Registered Charity No. 20010980; CHY 6271 Company No. 201698

Registered Charity No. 20010980; CHY 6271 Company No. 201698

For over 45 years GOAL has been working as agile

responders,

If you would like to talk about how your gift will be used by GOAL or to request a free brochure, please contact Courtenay

If you would like to talk about how your gift will be used by GOAL or to request a free brochure, please contact Courtenay

If you would like to talk about how your gift will be used by GOAL or to request a free brochure, please contact Courtenay

Ph: (01) 280 9779

Ph: (01) 280 9779

Ph: (01) 280 9779

E-mail cpollard@goal.ie

E-mail cpollard@goal.ie

E-mail cpollard@goal.ie

Visit: goalglobal.org

Visit: goalglobal.org

Visit: goalglobal.org

is supporting families driven from their homes in Ukraine

If you would like to talk

Dublin Dossier

Just beside the Ha'penny Bridge, the long established Morrison Hotel on Ormond Quay has always been a favourite of mine. Easy to reach, just one block to the Jervis Luas stop, connecting to Connolly railway station and home. Near Jameson Distillery, and the Jervis Shopping Centre it is just across the river to Temple Bar and the Guinness Storehouse at St.James's Gate.

It has just got better, The Morrison is the first hotel in Ireland to join the Curio Collection by Hilton and is now accredited a 5-star hotel by Fáilte Ireland, Coupled with this, it has also been awarded a Gold level rating from Green Tourism, an internationally recognised accreditation that rewards sustainable tourism. The general manager Patrick Joyce has been with The Morrison for many years. Patrick talking about this new chapter says: ‘It’s been a lot of work, but we feel that the hotel has never looked better, and we’re just as proud of the level of hospitality we offer.’

Overlooking the Liffey, it features one of Ireland's first Josper Grills, a grill that can reach up to 500 degrees and can create dishes only available at these temperatures.

The Morrison Dublin, Curio Collection by Hilton, Lower Ormond Quay, Dublin 1. Checkout: www.morrisonhotel.ie/

PS, The colourful history of Morrison is recalled in a previous Dublin Dossier column (July-August 2021 available at www.seniortimes.ie) A previous owner from 2012 to 2021, was Yelena (Elena) Baturina, listed in Forbes magazine as Russia's richest woman. Her husband was Yuri Luzhkov, Mayor of Moscow. In brief, Yuri fell foul of President Vladimir Putin and was dismissed as mayor. Elana, seeing the writing on the wall, sold Inteco her Russian investment and construction company and arranged for her two teenage daughters to be sent to live in London, fearing they were no longer safe in Russia. Husband Yuri died aged 83 in 2019 following heart surgery in Munich. She sold the Morrison in 2012. Now based in London she is still in the news. In the USA Former President Trump claimed that Biden's son Hunter got a $3.5 million payment from Elena Baturina, identified as a ‘consultancy agreement.’ Neither the Senate report nor Trump provided any evidence that that Hunter Biden committed any wrongdoing. Hunter denies the allegation. His lawyer, George Mesires says Hunter Biden was not an owner of the firm Senate Republicans alleged received the payment.

A revamp for the Morrison Hotel

Yelena (Elena) Baturina - former owner of the Morrison.

Faith in the future: new miracle innovations could save thousands of lives from climate disaster

As climate change brings the worst drought in 40 years to the Horn of Africa, Concern Worldwide supporters are helping local farmers use new climate-resilient techniques to save their families and communities from starvation.

In some parts of the Horn of Africa, there hasn’t been a single drop of rain in three years. Dead cows lie decaying by the road, overcome by dehydration. Across Ethiopia, Somalia and Kenya, the dust-filled plains are so bare of vegetation that they don’t attract any animals. The villages are just as quiet. The hustle and bustle of families cooking or working has fallen silent. Children who haven’t eaten for days do nothing but sit still in their huts, too tired and sick to move.

It’s the same dire, drought-ravaged situation across all the countries in the Horn of Africa. Right now, 16 million people are acutely food insecure. It’s estimated one person dies of hunger every 48 seconds. And as climate change causes more extreme weather patterns, experts predict that droughts like these will become even more frequent, and last even longer, with devastating effects for future generations.

Living in hunger

Ahmed, a farmer in Somalia, and his children, live on the frontline of the climate crisis. He inherited his land from his father who was a farmer before him. But with each year that has gone by since he was a boy, he has seen less and less rain falling on the family farm. The soil has become so dry that he can no longer grow the nutritious corn and sorghum that once helped him put food on the table.

Seeing his crops wither before his eyes, Ahmed did everything he could to save them, but without water, it wasn’t enough. He had nothing to eat and nothing to sell at the market. The pain of hunger began to take hold of his children. Even if his family were to survive the current crisis, he could only wonder how his children would ever live through the more formidable droughts of the future.

Miracle innovation

It was in this desperate situation that Concern Worldwide, Ireland’s largest international aid charity, and their generous community of supporters, were able to provide a lifeline for Ahmed. For 54 years, the charity has been helping people from the world’s poorest communities to build lives free from hunger. In Ahmed’s case, escaping hunger meant achieving something that seemed impossible to him – finding a way to turn his dusty fields green again despite the onslaught of the current drought. But thanks

Life-saving innovation

For decades, Concern Worldwide has been bringing life-saving solutions to people facing the climate crisis. The miraculous results have been nothing short of life-changing for thousands of families.

CROP VARIETY & DIVERSIFICATION

Drought-resistant seeds increase the chance of a successful crop, even in dry conditions, to protect families from hunger.

IRRIGATION

When an area receives no rainfall, innovative water pumping systems can bring vital, enriching moisture to barren soil.

POST-HARVEST MANAGEMENT

When crops are harvested, more secure storage techniques can protect them from being spoiled by insects and fungi later.

to supporters who left a gift in their Will to the charity, Concern has the resources to build climate-smart agricultural programmes that can support Ahmed and families like his. They provide the tools and training that, even in the driest conditions, help farmers grow nourishing food. Together, Concern and its supporters were able to provide Ahmed with a wide range of drought-resistant seeds, and training on how to grow them. The results have been nothing short of miraculous – today, his once-barren land is sprouting thousands of fruit-bearing trees. With the income he’s earning from selling the

While the threat of mass starvation looms, Concern Worldwide is calling for more people to help them protect vulnerable families like Ahmed’s from the hunger caused by drought and climate change. When people leave a gift in their Will to Concern, they’re giving hope to children, families and communities facing future challenges of the climate crisis, by supporting this life-saving agricultural programme.

Leaving a legacy of hope for future generations

Siobhán O’Connor, from Concern, advises people who want to leave a gift in their Will to the charity. “The gifts that our generous supporters

produce, he can afford to feed his children again. And when they’re old enough, they will learn these life-changing skills from Ahmed, which they can pass on to their own children, ensuring future generations live a life free from hunger.

The future threat of climate change

Although the future looks brighter for Ahmed and his children, many families are still not safe from climate change. The World Bank predicts that the coming changes in weather patterns could force more than 100 million people into extreme poverty by 2030. And by 2050, it may internally displace 143 million people from countries in Sub-Saharan Africa, South East Asia and Latin America.

Find out how you can be part of a world without hunger

If you’d like to request your free brochure to find out more about leaving a gift in your Will to Concern, please contact Siobhán O’Connor at Concern Worldwide today. Phone: 01 417 8020

leave in their Wills have the power to change so much,” Siobhán told us. She continued, “That single act of kindness goes far beyond helping one family protect themselves from hunger – it lives on through the years, from generation to generation, helping the families and children of the future survive even the deadliest drought.” More and more compassionate people across Ireland are now moving to support Concern’s vision to build a hunger-free world. Siobhán explains, “Our community is united by a simple belief that no one should ever have to suffer the pain of hunger. If you share in this belief, I would encourage you to consider joining us today. No gift is too small or big, every donation will help build a world free from hunger.”

“With the seeds Concern provided, I was able to harvest a lot more and help my family, it changed everything.”

Ahmed, Somalia

“ I am proud to know that, even when I am gone, my support will continue to save lives.”

Colm

, who’s leaving a gift in his Will to Concern Worldwide, Co. Galway

Communities face the threat of mass starvation as the climate crisis worsens.

Laughter keeps you young!

By Des MacHale

It seems that children laugh over eighty times a day, while adults laugh a lot fewer times than that and there must be a lesson there somewhere. Humour and laughter must therefore keep you young and I found it very hard not to laugh when my six-year-old grandson Josef sat on my knee and asked me in all seriousness, ’Grandad, were you in the Ark with Noah?’ ‘No’, I replied with a smile, ‘but why are you asking me that question?’ He told me, ‘I was wondering why you weren’t drowned’.

Doctors and psychologists tell us that the more we laugh the better we feel, the healthier we become and the longer we live. They can even give us a mechanism whereby all of this comes about.

When we laugh, natural pain-killing endorphins are released into the bloodstream which make us feel good all over, and better still, they cost nothing and have no side effects!

‘But’, I hear you say, ‘Sometimes I don’t have a lot to laugh about—stiff joints, forgetfulness, frequent trips to the loo,

and all the other features of maturity (your author has just celebrated his seventy-seventh birthday and can speak about all of these problems with great experience).

were sevens everywhere—the seven deadly sins, seven days of the week, the seven wonders of the world, nothing but sevens. I woke up on my birthday at seven minutes past seven and went online. I noticed that there was a horse called Seventy Seven running in the seventh race in which there were seven runners at Sevenoaks Racecourse. I thought to myself, this must be a divine omen, so after breakfast I went down to the bookies and put seventy seven euro on the horse who was starting at seven to one. The bloody animal came in seventh.

If laughter does not come naturally to you unbidden, then the trick is for you to consciously seek out laughter. There are many ways to do this and here are a number of suggestions that have worked for me—doubtless you will be able to add to this list from your own resources.

Actually, the night before my seventyseventh birthday, I was dreaming about the number seven all night long; there

1. Read funny books—here are some examples, available in bookshops, libraries, charity shops and on friends’ bookshelves. Three Men in a Boat by Jerome K. Jerome, is to my mind the funniest book ever written.

KERRY HIGHLIGHTS TOUR AT THE GLENEAGLE HOTEL

Book

Adolf Hitler My Part in his Downfall, by Spike Milligan. Puckoon by Spike Milligan—hilarious and set in Ireland. Anything by P. G. Wodehouse and there are dozens to choose from. My Financial Career by Stephen Leacock. Anything by George Burns, whose humour really hits the spot with regard to the golden years. Anything by Dave Barry, Woody Allen, Stephen Potter, Joan Rivers, Phyllis Diller, Jerry Seinfeld, Rita Rudner, Bob Hope, W.C.Fields, Jo Brand, Les Dawson, Mark Twain, Auberon Waugh, Oscar Wilde and Myles na gCopalleen and there are hundreds more to choose from.

2. Watch the comedy shows on television. Nowadays, you have to be selective, but MASH, I Love Lucy, Not Going Out, D’Unbelievables and Blackadder never fail to give me a laugh.

3. Some of the more mature stand-up comics can really laugh about their advancing years— people like Rodney Dangerfield, Groucho Marx, Ardal O’Hanlon, Jerry Seinfeld, Joan Rivers, George Burns and Phyllis Diller.

4. Watch comedy films—not much good stuff in the cinema nowadays but there is a wealth of classical comedy on DVD and VHS that can be picked up in charity shops for next to nothing that can be enjoyed again and again—The Marx Brothers, Laurel and Hardy, Abbot and Costello, W. C. Fields, Rowan Atkinson , Monty Python and literally hundreds of others.

5. Be prepared to joke about the stage of life you find yourself at now. I read or reread a joke book every week and laugh hard in the process. I honestly find that

the more I laugh about my problems, the less serious they seem to become.

I myself have written many books of humorous quotations in the WIT series and they always contain a chapter about the humour of advancing years.

Here are some of my favourites, and ask yourself how many of them you can identify with—we all have a lot in common!

Am I happy? What do you take me for, an Idiot? -  Charles De Gaulle

How do you make God laugh? Tell Him your future plans - Woody Allen

I love being a grandmother. It is great being greeted by someone who is bald, drooling and wearing a diaper who is not my date - Joan Rivers

Kids are a wonderful blessing from God, aren’t they? You never know when you’ll need a kidney or a lung transplant - Emo Philips

My husband and I decided to start a family while my parents are still young enough to look after them - Rita Rudner

Having a family is like having a bowling alley installed in your head - Martin Mull

I am ninety-eight years of age. I still chase girls—but only if they are travelling downhill - George Burns

I took my mother-in-law to visit Madam Tussaud’s Chamber of Horrors. One of the attendants said, ‘Keep her moving sir, we’re stocktaking’ - Les Dawson

What ought to be done to the man who invented anniversaries? Mere killing would be too light  - Mark Twain

Somewhere on this earth, every ten seconds a woman gives birth to a child. We must find this woman at once and stop herSam Levenson

I took my wife out for tea and biscuits the other night. Mind you, she didn’t like having to give the pint of blood - Roy Brown

Always be nice to your kids. After all, they’re going to choose your nursing home - Woody Allen

Poor old Lord Mortlake had only two topics of conversation, his wife and his gout. I never could quite make out which one he was talking about - Oscar Wilde And there are many, many more where they came from—I reckon I have more than forty thousand humorous quotations on file. If you are wise, you can pass off any of the above superb humorous quotations as your own and so develop a reputation as a sparkling wit and nobody will be any the wiser. There are of course many other forms of humour ,especially the joke, which I hope to retur n to at a later date, but in the meantime keep smiling, keep laughing and don’t take life too seriously, because nobody gets out of it alive.

Des MacHale is Emeritus Professor of Mathematics at University College Cork, He is an author and speaker on several subjects, including George Boole, lateral thinking puzzles, and humour and will be speaking on the Cork sense of humour at the 50 Plus Show in Cork later this year

Watching Blackadder never fails to raise a laugh or two...

Childhood stops for seriously ill children.

Leave a gif t in your will & help children living with serious illness.

Leave behind a little magic! Let your legacy bring magic to the lives of children living with serious illness. A gift in your will whether it is a large or small sum, or a percentage of your estate will make a lasting di erence.

Barretstown o ers free speci cally designed camps and programmes for sick children and their families. When looking after your loved ones in your will you can also transform the lives of sick children for generations to come.

We can help you succeed in making this gift.

For more information, please contact Clare Martin on 045 864 115, email clare.martin@barretstown.org or ll out this slip and return by post to the address below.

Yes, please send me a free brochure

Name: Address: County: Eircode:

Your care and compassion for others can live on through a legacy gift. By remembering Barretstown in your will you can make sure that every child with serious illness can experience the magic of camp.

Healing doesn’t just happen in hospitals and laughter may very well be the best medicine.

Barretstown Founder, Paul Newman

Registered Charity Number: 20027759

Drinks World

Whiskey you’re me darlin..

Mairead

In the last issue we spoke about the rise of the gin industry in Ireland over the past few years. However there is no doubt that the growing success of Irish whiskey on the international stage is nothing short of phenomenal. The value of Irish whiskey exports to the all-island economy exceeded one billion euro for the first time in 2022, the Irish Whiskey Association has announced just last month.

Commenting on this one billion plus euro export value figure for 2022, William Lavelle, Director of the Irish Whiskey Association, stated: ‘Breaking one billion in export value represents another important milestone in the Irish whiskey renaissance and confirms the importance of our unique all-island industry to our shared economy, north and south. Across the island of Ireland, the growth in Irish whiskey exports has created more quality jobs, brought more investment into regional and rural communities, and led to more purchasing from Irish farmers.’

It has not always been that way, with Scotch being the number one whiskey of choice for years, particularly in the US, so in the last few years Irish whiskey

has begun roaring back. From just four operational distilleries in 2010, there are now forty-two on the island of Ireland. Annual global sales have surged from 5m cases (60m bottles) in 2010 to 14m cases (168m bottles) last year, fuelled by new offerings and a younger whiskey loving demographic.

Growth in the US has been especially strong, rising 16per cent last year to a record $1.3bn, according to the Distilled Spirits Council. If the trend continues, Irish whiskey sales in the US – currently 5.9m cases – will overtake scotch, which has plateaued at about 8m cases, by 2030 However, leaving out the US market, scotch is still the dominant whiskey internationally, a position which it has held for years and it is here that Irish whiskey is now fighting for dominance. Here at home in terms of those making the whiskey, we have seen a new and diverse generation of whiskey makers, many of whom are women in an industry which was traditionally dominated by men. And amongst those drinking whiskey, this now includes a younger cohort that wasn’t there a few generations ago, and the trend is for higher quality whiskeys and for interesting cocktails. Perhaps the

most well known whiskey cocktail is the Irish Coffee. When Joe Sheridan created the Irish Coffee, he first made it famous at the Foynes Flying Boat terminal in Co. Limerick before bringing it to the Buena Vista Café in San Francisco where it still reigns supreme. In the 1950’s the Irish Coffee travelled the world, becoming Ireland’s most famous cocktail and it’s still as popular today.

Here are some great cocktail suggestions from our top whiskey makers which you can try at home. First up the

Irish Whiskey Expresso Martini

Ingredients:-

35.5ml Irish Whiskey (preferably an ex-bourbon matured malt for sweetness).

35.5ml fresh brewed espresso.

15ml Kahlua/TiaMaria/Hot Irishman coffee liqueur

10ml Demerara syrup

Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice, shake vigorously and strain into your favourite martini glass.

Jameson Whiskey Sour

3 dashes of Angustura Bitters

14ml egg white

50ml Jameson Black Barrel

Robinson charts the extraordinary success of Irish whiskey, and recommends some great whiskey cocktails.

The classic Hot Toddy

25ml lemon juice

15ml simple syrup

Ice cubes and one ‘spiral’ of lemon. Fill your shaker with ice cubes and Jameson Black Barrel, lemon juice, egg white, Angustura Bitters and syrup. Shake and strain into your glass and garnish with a lemon twist.

Chocolate Orange

5ml Ferncullen Falls Small Batch

20ml Mozart chocolate liqueur

2 dashes Angustura Aromatic Bitters

4 dashers orange bitters

Add all ingredients to a mixing glass with ice and stir thoroughly to chill and dilute.

Old Fashioned Cocktail From Listoke

2 tsp sugar syrup or 1 tsp sugar

1-2 dashed Angostura Bitters

Splash of water

60ml Wise Owl Irish Whiskey

Splash of soda water

Orange peel

Maraschino cherry

Put the sugar, bitters and water in a small tumbler. Mix until the sugar dissolves if using granulated. Fill your glass with ice and stir in the whiskey. Add a splash of

Competition winners from last issue

Needless to say all these great Irish whiskeys are excellent served on their own or just over ice. There are purists who would not dream of adding anything to change the subtle flavours of a good whiskey. But if you feel like having some fun and trying something different, a cocktail is a great way to enjoy your favourite spirit. Warm in the winter – a Hot Toddy can be a life saver if you are really feeling the chill – and cool in the summer, sipped over ice, a good Irish Whiskey is guaranteed to step up to every occasion.

Chocolate Orange

Old Fashioned

Whiskey Sour

You can make a difference

May had a massive bite injury to her lower neck when she was rescued. The wound was cleaned twice a week before antibiotic cream was applied. After all that May has been through, her sweet and gentle nature is all the more amazing. Now fully recovered, May is in her new home.

The ISPCA is a national organisation that works year-round to prevent cruelty to animals across Ireland. This is achieved through a network of four directly managed rescue centres and 15 affiliated members, a team of nine Animal Welfare Inspectors and a dedicated National Animal Cruelty Helpline.

Although only a small proportion of calls that the ISPCA respond to relate to incidents involving the deliberate infliction of pain on an animal, the suffering caused to animals through neglect should never be underestimated.  This is especially true when it comes to the operation of illegal puppy farms where dogs are often crammed into cages with no natural light or ventilation. Lack of hygiene and exercise can lead to serious health issues. Behavioural problems from a lack of socialisation and human interaction also means a longer time is needed in the ISPCA’s care for them to heal and recover. It takes an average of 54 days at an ISPCA rescue centre for an animal to recover enough before being rehomed. Through education, guidance and information, and by working collaboratively with people and organisations, the ISPCA seeks to bring about lasting improvements in in how animals are cared for. Not only will this mean better outcomes for animals and their owners, but ultimately will help to reduce or prevent any future cases of cruelty or neglect.

Raggetty had been a stray for a long time. His fur was so badly matted he needed to be sedated before being sheared. He was treated for parasites, vaccinated, and neutered. This handsome giant of a cat regained both his health and his gorgeous coat before going to his new home.

You can make a difference.

The life changing rescue, rehabilitation and rehoming of cruelly treated or neglected animals is made possible only because of the support of kind-hearted people throughout Ireland. Whenever people lend their voice, share goods or money, give of their time and skills as a volunteer, foster or adopt a rescue animal; every act of kindness and generosity means more animals will be saved and get the chance of a happy life. Gifts in Wills are a great way to ensure the ISPCA’s work can continue for generations to come. Many people put off making their will or amending an existing one, but it’s easy to do. You can use the ISPCA’S Free Online Will Writing service or contact your solicitor directly. Even leaving a small percentage to a cause you care deeply about will greatly help in future years.

The ISPCA are extremely grateful to the many dedicated animal lovers who give selflessly to help the animals which come into our care each year. To find out more visit www.ispca.ie, email ispca-friends@ispca.ie or call 087 0512603

To report cruelty, neglect or abuse to an animal, please contact the ISPCA National Animal Cruelty Helpline in confidence on 0818 515515, email helpline@ispca.ie or visit www.ispca.ie to report online.

On the frontline protecting animals

Last year, the ISPCA National Animal Cruelty Helpline received over 9,000 calls resulting in 2,562 investigations being carried out.  ISPCA Animal Welfare Inspectors seized or had surrendered 1,148 dogs, cats, equines and other animals, and also assisted with the investigations including giving evidence in court to successfully resolve over twenty cases. An additional seventeen case files have been submitted to assist in future court cases to hold those who cruelly treat or neglect and cause suffering to animals accountable. Over 1,600 animals were rehomed.

ISPCA Animal Welfare Inspectors investigate complaints of animal cruelty and neglect.

eir, Ireland’s leading telecommunications company is committed to consistently improving the care experience for all of their customers. In November of 2021 the company introduced a new standard of bespoke care, informed by the needs of their older customers.

eir’s Managing Director of Customer Operations, Sinead O’Gorman, said “eir knows that staying connected is essential, the Covid-19 pandemic emphasised the importance of robust, reliable broadband and voice services. Our customers are at the core of every decision we make, and tens of thousands of eir customers are older people; as technology evolves we have to ensure that communication services remain accessible for all customers.

Through ongoing reviews we learned that older customers needed additional support in particular areas. Some parts of our care service was not as seamless as it could be, resolution of technical issues, or payment issues for example. If some customers have difficulty in accessing telecommunications services, the issue can compound and they risk being excluded from vital connectivity services. In order to identify and implement a solution, eir worked with representative groups of older people, including retired staff, community groups and charities including Age

Action and Age Friendly Ireland.”

Sinead added: “By working with these stakeholder groups we better understood the needs of older people, a clear perspective we could never have achieved without their input. One theme that came through consistently was that most older people want to speak to a real person who could resolve their issue, not to be transferred from department to department, and that they could easily access the support they need.”

The solution we arrived at was a new care service to provide specialised support specifically for older customers. ‘Age Friendly Care from eir’, is a dedicated phone line supported by a team of customer service agents who are specially trained in working with customers aged 65 and over.

Sinead “The Age Friendly Care programme has been a big success with not only our customers but with the dedicated team members who run the service every day. We took the feedback of representatives of our older customers and made simple changes, to big effect.

For example, there is no time limit on these calls, the key metric is the quality of conversation, over the time it takes to answer the call, but wait times do not suffer. With wait times on average being consistently less than two minutes, customers do not need to be concerned about waiting for long periods to speak to a trained agent.”

In December 2022, the CCMA (the Customer Contact Management Association) awarded the Age Friendly Care team the industry annual award for “Team of the Year 2022”. Sinead noted that being awarded the industry’s top team award made the entire team so proud and was a mark of recognition of the innovative service and hard work of everyone involved.

eir’s ‘age friendly’ care line can be reached on 1800 252 252 and is accessible between the hours of 10am to 4pm, Monday to Friday. If an older person wishes to nominate a friend or family member to manage their account on their behalf, this nominee can work with the age-friendly care team to resolve any issues.

Consistently improving the care experience for all of their customers

Golf

Dermot Gilleece recounts an unforgettable experience at The Masters

From greens to screens..

The upcoming Masters at Augusta National will be a special occasion in the golf-writing activities which have brought me to 105 of the game’s socalled major events. It happens to be the 10th anniversary of a dramatic episode which landed me in a local hospital before Sergio Garcia shared the first round lead on 66 with Australia’s Marc Leishman in 2013.

With its towering pines shimmering in April sunshine, my memory is of the ironic venue never looking more beautiful. At least that’s the way it seemed to me when the notion of feeling good to be alive for Saturday’s round, acquired rather special resonance. I remember how events over the previous few days had got me thinking of former European Tour player, Richard Boxall, and his ill-fated appearance in the 1991 Open Championship at Royal Birkdale. ‘I went out in 34 and back in an ambulance,’ the current Sky commentator famously described the circumstance of breaking his left leg in a freak fall off the ninth tee.

appointment to the host club’s media team of John Carr, whose famous father, Joe, had gained the distinction of becoming Ireland’s first challenger in the Masters, 46 years previously.

I remember how events over the previous few days had got me thinking of former European Tour player, Richard Boxall, and his ill-fated appearance in the 1991 Open Championship at Royal Birkdale.

With Rory McIlroy looking good, the 77th Masters held promise of some interesting stories from an Irish perspective. As a bonus, there was the

In the event, John was accorded the distinction of monitoring the official, McIlroy interview, having earlier informed us how he had played a practice round with Alan Dunbar the previous Sunday, along with two other Augusta members. Dunbar had made it to Augusta as winner of the 2012 British Amateur Championship at Royal Troon. Indeed Carr might have qualified for Masters appearances in his own right in 1982 and 1983 (there was a two-year invitation in those days), but for being the victim of some outrageous putting by Frenchman Philippe Ploujoux in the semi-finals of the 1981 Amateur at St Andrews. One such putt I vividly recall was of no less than 50 yards which Ploujoux sank from the adjoining second

green, when they were playing the 16th. Then there was the appearance of the remarkable, 14-year-old Chinese, Tianlang Guan, bringing to mind prodigious performances by Irish lads over the decades. Like Ronan Rafferty, as a 12-year-old on a school-trip to St Andrews with CBS Newry, shooting level-par gross for nine holes on the Old Course. And as a 14-year-old in 1978, he tied with Philip Walton for the 54-hole lead in the East of Ireland Championship at Baltray.

Then there was McIlroy, going from scratch to plus-one as a 14-year-old in July 2003, as a consequence of carding a six-under-par 63 en route to victory in the president's prize at Holywood GC. Jimmy Bruen, of course, had set the standard, seven decades previously. These were all feature possibilities for me, before we would get into the meat of things later in Masters week. They involved regular trips up the grassy

From Nick Faldo’s first, play-off victory in 1989 to his third win over Greg Norman, followed by the beginning of the Tiger Woods era in 1997 and the first triumph by Phil Mickelson seven years later, I have had the fortune of witnessing some memorable Masters, especially El Tigre’s fifth triumph in 2019.

incline from the old media centre to the clubhouse area, which gave me the first warning of serious events to come. I had known the danger symptoms of shortness of breath and a tightening across the chest, in the build-up to triple by-pass surgery in 1996.

On the Wednesday morning, I arrived in the media centre at about 8.30am, set for the famous Par-3 Tournament which would dominate the final practice day. Though the trip from the car-park had involved no more than a shortish walk followed by shuttle transport inside the grounds, I felt decidedly ill at ease. For reasons I cannot explain, I found myself going directly to Craig Heatley, who happened to be chairman of the Masters media committee. Dispensing with niceties, I told him directly: ‘Craig, I’m in trouble. Heart.’

It is acknowledged humorously in Irish golfing circles that if a player is unfortunate enough to encounter heart trouble, the place to be is Portmarnock GC where there’s a medic around every corner. After my experience there, however, Augusta National would be difficult to rival.

Given his status as a one of New Zealand’s wealthiest businessmen, I imagined decision-making would come easily to Heatley. And having invited me to take a seat, he proceeded to make phone calls. In a matter of minutes, I was taken by golf buggy to the medical facility within the grounds. On observing the level of technology and staff within, calling it a First-Aid Centre was a bit like describing a Rolls Royce as a runabout. Then a club member appeared in the familiar green jacket and quietly gave instructions. That was when a doctor asked which of three local hospitals I

wished to be taken to. ‘I have to ask; it’s a legal requirement,’ she explained. Noting my bemusement, she suggested Georgia Regents University Medical Centre, where ‘I did my training.’

A few minutes later, an ambulance took me there and a short time after that again, I was in the operating theatre. In terms of speed and efficiency, the timescale since I had left the media centre was truly staggering. I later learned that the club member in the First-Aid Centre was a distinguished orthopaedic surgeon. I also discovered that the hospital were instructed to make reports on my progress to the club, every 20 minutes. Augusta National had orchestrated everything.

Incidentally, I had been there for little more than 24 hours when the hospital’s accounts department conveyed a message I had been expecting. What was the nature of my health insurance? Whereupon I referred them to our splendid VHI and heard nothing more until several months later, when I was back in Dublin. Everything was taken care of.

Meanwhile, I acquired celebrity status in the hospital by being their annual Masters heart patient for 2013. And my being Irish, prompted the surgeon, Deepak Kapoor, to ask about Michael O’Leary of Ryanair. Though Dr Kapoor had never been to Ireland, he was fascinated by the notion of someone running an airline which proposed to charge for using the toilet, while clearing out seats to create standing-room. Then there was one of the nurses who talked about the hospital having twice changed management in recent times. Conscious of the implications of such developments, I wondered if she was

still on full salary. ‘Certainly,’ she said, affronted. ‘I don’t do this for a hobby’. Another female staff-member talked about how she came to work there from Augusta National where she had been employed for 12 years. Apparently her new hours were more amenable. ‘But the club still look after me,’ she said with a big smile. ‘I got a badge for the practice day last Monday.’

Meanwhile, Craig Heatley phoned my wife in Dublin to assure her I was in good hands. He also had a goody-bag and get-well balloons sent to me from the media centre. And when I returned there on the Saturday morning, it was like they were greeting a long-lost friend. In the course of a long chat before I was discharged on Friday evening, Dr Kapoor explained it had been a very close call. ‘An hour later and ..’ He had inserted two stents through my groin and treated two blood-clots in another vessel. ‘You don’t want to mess with clots,’ he said. He then he gave me a DVD of my operation and a detailed, printed report of everything that was done, to bring home to my Dublin-based specialist. From Nick Faldo’s first, play-off victory in 1989 to his third win over Greg Norman, followed by the beginning of the Tiger Woods era in 1997 and the first triumph by Phil Mickelson seven years later, I have had the fortune of witnessing some memorable Masters, especially El Tigre’s fifth triumph in 2019.

And this one? Considerable excitement was generated on the Sunday by a playoff between Adam Scott and the 2009 champion, Angel Cabrera, before Scott became the first Australian winner of a coveted green jacket. Still, you’ll understand when I say that it’s difficult to imagine any of the others being closer to my heart.

Then there was the appearance of the remarkable, 14-year-old Chinese, Tianlang Guan, left, bringing to mind prodigious performances by Irish lads over the decades. Like Ronan Rafferty, as a 12-year-old on a school-trip to St Andrews with CBS Newry, shooting level-par gross for nine holes on the Old Course

Creative Writing

‘Perfect credentials’ of a literary hometown chronicler

Through Streets Broad and Narrow has already attracted much praise. Such positive affirmations come, in one instance, from Gerard Smyth, poet, journalist and poetry editor of The Irish Times: ‘With roots in Dublin’s Liberties, the foundation streets of his native city, Dr Declan Collinge has the perfect credentials to be curator of the rich cultural heritage of his literary hometown.’ With these words in mind, I set about exploring these credentials and to discover how TSBaN began its curatorial journey.

Collinge, on closer inspection, is a man ideally placed for the mammoth task of showcasing a city rich in literary and cultural traditions. His own career path saw him teaching at secondary level while also lecturing (Anglo-Irish literature). Now retired from teaching, he still works creatively. A bilingual scholar, he published the Fadó Irish Legends and Irish Saints series for Mentor/Red Stag Books together with two Oscar Wilde stories, The Happy Prince and The Selfish Giant. Aside from this, Collinge has also translated a number of Hans Christian Andersen stories. Teaching, translating, editing are all solid advantages when faced with a task like structuring TSBaN. But there’s yet another attribute to highlight: the fact that Collinge himself is a highly respected poet (writing in both English and Irish, with knowledge of other languages) and currently working on a new collection of English poems entitled Dodder, many of which this vibrant intellectual composed while out walking during lockdown. One of his favourite walking routes, since childhood, is the Bohernabreena reservoir. He also loves climbing the Sugarloaf mountains, gazing down on Greystones. The Sugarloaf inspired one of Collinge’s poetry collections Fearful Symmetry.

Declan Collinge is a proud third generation Dubliner, a fact that hadn’t

Eileen Casey meets Dr Declan Collinge who has recenty published the much-praised Through Streets Broad and Narrow

Declan Collinge has the perfect credentials to be curator of the rich cultural heritage of his literary hometown

escaped the late Danny McCarthy, a publisher who originally set up the imprint Red Stag books with the intention of branching out from the Mentor Books text market. Unfortunately, when McCarthy passed away suddenly, many of the Red Stag books’ projects also ended. Including the nucleus of TSBaN. However, undaunted,

Collinge submitted the manuscript to Beehive Books, a secular imprint of well known Irish publishing house, Veritas. Managing editor, Síne Quinn, was happy to proceed with the project. Beehive

Books are beautifully produced and serve as a general interest imprint focusing on non-fiction and children’s books. Then

Care for all animals with a gift in your Will to the ISPCA.

Leaving a gift in your Will to the ISPCA is a wonderful way to celebrate your love of animals and the unconditional love and companionship they have given you. By doing so, you will be helping to rescue many more animals so that they can take that first step to a happy new life.

The kindness and generosity of leaving a legacy gift will have a lasting impact for generations to come. Your gift will ensure that the ISPCA will always be there to protect Ireland’s most vulnerable animals.

To find out more information on how your legacy can help or to claim your code for the ISPCA’s Free Online Will Writing service please visit www.ispca.ie/Legacies or call 087 0512603.

ISPCA Free Online Will Writing Service

By making a Will, you’ll have the peace of mind of knowing that those you care about will be looked after and that your wishes for your loved ones, friends and family will be respected.

The ISPCA’s Free Online Will Writing service can be used to make a Will for the first time or to amend an existing one. It’s available at no cost to you and with no obligation to donate.

Rescued from an illegal puppy farm, these adorable pups were in a filthy shed with no bedding or natural light. Their tiny bellies were bloated because of worms. Both were very underweight. They are now in new forever homes.

along came Covid which spelled further delay. Rather than yield to despair, Collinge made good use of Lockdown’s imposed isolation, honing and refining the work.

I ask to be guided through the shape of a book which begins in the 17th century with excerpts from Richard Head about his journey from Ringsend and from Swift about street criers ‘claiming (disingenuously) that herrings are fresh!’ I’m assured of an interesting, thought provoking read by the knowledge that ‘From that point, TSBaN covers all the other centuries with a brief historical introduction and then an example of literary work from that century.’ For example, The Gothic Masters chapter has an extract from Dracula and The House by the Churchyard (Sheridan Le Fanu). Of course, no book about Dublin could ever be complete without mention of arguably the greatest Dubliner of all. ‘Joyce’s Dublin’ has excerpts from all his famous works while ‘Dublinspeak’ focuses on the Dublin accent and its many eccentricities. Dublin street games and Dublin characters are discussed in a separate chapter, as are ‘Poet Stories’. Just as this compilation would not be complete without Joyce, the same can be said for the inclusion of some of Collinge’s own extensive writings. A much published writer, pieces which have broadcast on Sunday Miscellany can be found in TSBaN as well as some of his poems, newspaper articles and

scripts. These pieces attest to Collinge’s range as a writer but also, significantly, his commitment to Dublin city and its people evidenced by colourful profiles of characters such as Bang Bang, The Diceman, Dancing Mary etc. Dublin in more recent times is not neglected either; ‘I talk of how Dublin has evolved in more recent times; ‘The Celtic Tiger’, ‘New Dubliners,’ (where immigrant voices are heard)’.

Considering his busy academic and family life, Collinge’s literary output is astonishing. With eight collections of poetry published, he has also written and edited over twenty textbooks. And now, TSBaN ‘adds a rich dimension to our understanding of the ancient city. It evokes the enduring spirit of Dublin, bequeathed to us by the many talented writers, poets and artists of today and times past, capturing in one volume much of the unique character and literary personality of the city and its people’ – words of praise from Des Geraghty (Former SIPTU president and labour activist).

What of Dr Declan Collinge, the private man? Married to Margaret , the couple have three adult daughters, Nessa, Claire and Aisling. Although originally from County Tipperary, Margaret has lived in Dublin since the age of seven which makes her an honorary citizen. Collinge smiles at the memory of that meeting when he first saw his wife to be; ‘She was the pretty, strawberry blonde library assistant and we exchanged glances over the counter.’ A match made in …the library is clearly one that’s bound to have a happy ending and yes, this is the case for sure. The couple have ten grandchildren, ranging in age from 18 to 4. Their eldest grandchild, Camille, is at Trinity College studying music and film studies. It’s easy to see where the music might come from. Collinge hails from a musical family himself and plays harmonica and guitar (early Bob Dylan style he points out). Whenever there’s a family gathering, he and his brothers jam together. Accompanied by Margaret, he attends regular concerts at the NCH, enjoying a variety of music, from classical to operatic and popular as well. The cinema is also a regular leisure activity for the couple. A personal interest is ornithology is an interest he shares with daughter Aisling, even to the extent of attending a falconry course where they flew Lanner falcons and Harris hawks.

When it comes to writing poetry, where does the inspiration come from?

Declan’s literary interests are wide and varied and include Robert Frost, Sheila Flanagan, Seamus Heaney and Maeve Binchy

The book profiles many of Dublin’s colourful characters such as the Diceman

‘While out walking I may have an idea for a poem or a short story or an article which I then work on later on my laptop, but I don’t necessarily do this religiously at a given time on a daily basis.’ Interestingly enough, Collinge’s first poems were written as a response to a raid on his pigeon loft when he was 13 years or so. Upset, he began writing a tribute to the birds that had been plundered. The Stolen Pigeons’resulted, a ‘shameless borrowing from Lament for the Poets by Francis Ledwidge.’ The experience was so thrilling for the young Collinge that he determined to become a writer although he always wanted to be a teacher. Both ambitions were subsequently realised, testimony to his abilities. Because he was precocious and used ‘big words,’ he was nicknamed ‘Professor Collinge’ by the other children on the road.

Later influences are equally important to Collinge the writer. While still a young arts student (UCD), ‘I was impressed by the Romantic poets and my friend Colin Beggan and I, self-consciously tried to become 20th Century lyrical balladeers, seeking inspiration in the Dublin mountains!’ Where did writing in Irish begin? Collinge doesn’t need to think long about this and responds with alacrity; ‘When I started to write in Irish I was very taken by the Aran poet Mairtin Ó Direáin. I was honoured when he wrote the introduction to my first published collection Sealgaireacht (Hunting Quest) in 1982. Because of his admiration for the Aran poet, Collinge went on to complete a post-graduate studies (PhD) on Ó Direáin and was fortunate to have his assistance in this regard. Collinge affectionately refers to the much admired mentor and poet as a ‘gentle giant’. As well as speaking fluent Irish, Collinge has a working knowledge of Spanish and practises Latin regularly as a brain exercise ‘since the language is so highly inflected.’ While in college, he studied Latin for a year and had to translate over 800 lines of Ovid’s Metamorphoses. His late father could speak German, French, Irish and Russian. ‘Self-taught and although he left school at 14 to become a post office messenger and later a postman, he matriculated in his 30s.’ Clearly, the apple hasn’t fallen far from the tree. Collinge’s father instilled an emphasis on language and education in his family, eventually going on ‘to become librarian and translator in Dept. of Statistics in

the Civil Service.’ No mean feat by any standards. Collinge is rightly proud of his father.

The pursuit of education wasn’t always so rosy however. When Collinge attended Drimnagh Castle Secondary school in the mid to late 1960s, ‘the regime was very harsh with little room for any form of self-expression and corporal punishment par for the course. The head brother was very conservative, so my friend Brendan and I rebelled for our last two years.’ I sensed an anecdote on the way and wasn’t disappointed. ‘We drove Honda 50 Cubs, gave up on study and partook of the ballad and beat culture of the 60s. The head brother suggested that ‘we would never make anything of ourselves.’ Clearly, that hasn’t been the case. ‘Years later, as the school celebrated its 50th anniversary, I was asked back to recite a poem I had written specially for the occasion. I read this with President Mary McAleese in attendance and that for me was a moment of real achievement and vindication.’ Another lovely happening was when he translated Digging by Seamus Heaney and sent a copy to the Nobel laureate. ‘He wrote back to me telling me how impressed he was by my translation and that was an even prouder moment.’

It’s always fascinating to discover a writer’s own personal preferences. Naturally, Seamus Heaney is on the list, Collinge finding Heaney’s ‘lexical resource’ impressive. He’s also a fan of Robert Frost, discovering the poet while working as a student in New Jersey. He can still read and recite his poetry which he describes as being ‘deceptively simple.’ His list is long and is gender balanced too, which is refreshing. Among his long list of poets are luminaries such as Gerard Smyth, Dermot Bolger, Jessica Traynor, Mary O’Donnell, Pat Boran. An equally long list of novelists reveal an eclectic taste and include Marian Keyes, Maeve Binchy, Joseph O’Connor, Sebastian Barry, James Lawless and Sheila O’Flanagan.

I ask Collinge what his hopes for the future of TSBaN are, for example, would Molly Malone enjoy it as a reading experience? Molly being the archetypal Dubliner. ‘Yes, of course she would enjoy the book’ he quickly assures. ‘After all, she does appear in the book, in the song!’ His hopes are that it will sell well and

widely and better establish his reputation as a writer so that ‘I may become more mainstream.’ Has he any thoughts about growing older. His only regret about that inevitability is ‘the prospect of physical decrepitude and being a burden on other people.’ Collinge feels passionately about what appears to be ‘the muzzling of free speech now in universities and the fear of professors to speak their mind because of the threat of cancellation or even losing their jobs. Having grown up in the 60s when free speech and equality was so important, having worked abroad happily, with every race and nationality and now seeing debate being shut down troubles me. I fear for my grandchildren if this mentality persists.’

At the end of our time together, I can wholeheartedly conclude that Dr Declan Collinge indeed possesses the perfect set of credentials for such a worthy book as Through Streets Broad and Narrow. A man of vision, possessed of high principles and with an awareness of and a zest for life in all its possibilities, the unique identity of a city and its characters, are safeguarded now and for the future. Dublin owes him a debt of gratitude.

For more information on Through streets broad and narrow (Beehive Books) edited by Dr Declan Collinge contact Pamela McLoughlin (+353 1 878 8177) Or email: pamela.mcloughlin@ veritas.ie. It will be launched in April and will have full colour photographs throughout.

By Debbie Orme

Notes

Alpacas come to County Down

Although they originate in the South American Altiplano – a mountainous area in the foothills of the Andean Mountains, which span the borders of Peru, Chile and Bolivia, Northern Ireland boasts its own Alpaca Group (NIAG), which is a member of the British Alpaca Society provides a national network for all things alpaca in the UK.

There are four species of South American camelid: llamas, alpacas, vicunas and guacanos. Llamas and alpacas are domesticated, which the vicuna and guacano are both wild and protected species.

‘Alpacas and llamas are often confused,’ says NIAG Co-Secretary, Kathleen Mathers, ‘but the two are actually quite different. While the llama is often used as a pack animal and can weigh in at up to 180kg, alpacas are much smaller in stature and normally weigh no more than 70kg. It is primarily a fleece-producing animal.’ I asked Kathleen, do people actually keep alpacas?

‘Well,’ she told me, ‘alpacas are a niche livestock market, enabling owners with small acreages to trade and earn income from their land. There is a growing demand for quality alpacas throughout the

UK and Europe, mainly because quality alpaca fleece is a rare commodity that can be transformed into premium cloth or yarn and luxury bedding, or used in a variety of arts and crafts. As such, alpacas producing consistently good fleeces throughout their lifespan will command a premium.’

Kathleen is quick to point out, however, that keeping alpacas isn’t always simple. ‘Anyone considering getting alpacas needs to be cognisant of the fact that they have a lifespan of about 20 years’, she says. ‘As semi-ruminants, alpacas eat grass throughout the year. They are browsers rather than grazers, so three to five alpacas can be kept per acre, depending on conditions, and their diet has to be supplemented with hay and other feeds, particularly in winter.

‘Alpacas are hardy, healthy animals and live outside year round. However, they need a shelter for protection from the rain and (occasionally in our climate) the sun. They also need annual vaccinations and regular worming. Like any livestock, they can become unwell and may require veterinary treatment.

‘Alpacas have adapted very well to life in Northern Ireland and are generally hardy,

of animal, including basic knowledge of their nutrition, exercise needs, breeding regimes, normal and abnormal behaviours etc.

‘Alpacas are sociable, herd animals, therefore a single alpaca cannot be kept on its own. Many people start by keeping a small group of gelded males (wethers) or a small group of females.

‘While alpacas certainly make excellent pets due to the fact that they are intelligent, easily trained and are usually very gentle with the children, anyone considering taking the plunge and buying their first alpaca should recognise that it is a big step, so they need to take their time and gather as much information before they make the commitment. We recommend that they join the British Alpaca Society and the Northern Ireland Alpaca Group as the first step in their journey.

‘Members of NIAG will happily discuss plans with anyone interested and will be delighted to help people to find the alpacas that are right for them.’ For more information, visit alpacani.org

Major accolade for top NI healthcare professional

One of Northern Ireland’s top pharmacists has been awarded an MBE for service to the profession.

Professor Mike Scott, Director of the Medicines Optimisation Innovation Centre (MOIC), has been recognised for a pharmacy career that has spanned more than 40 years and has resulted in the transformation of pharmacy services within Northern Ireland.

Over the past decades, Mike’s achievements have been recognised not only on a local level, but on a national and global level too.

He first registered as a pharmacist in 1982 and was awarded a PhD in Pharmacology in 1982. Since then, he has held a number of positions within the Health and Social Care System in Northern Ireland.

He is currently the Director of MOIC, but has previously been the Head of Pharmacy and Medicines Management in the Northern Health and Social Care Trust since 2007.

In 1994, he established the first academic practice unit in the province in conjunction with the Queens University of Belfast. In 2004, he was made a fellow of the Pharmaceutical Society of Northern Ireland and in June 2009 was made an honorary Professor of Pharmacy Practice at QUB. He was awarded the Guild of Healthcare Pharmacists gold medal for outstanding contribution to the health service at national level in 2010.

In 2016, he was awarded the United Kingdom Clinical Pharmacy Association Lifetime Achievement Award, while, in 2017, he was part of the expert group working on the technical documents for the World Health Organisation’s Global Challenge to reduce avoidable medication related harm by 50 per cent over five years. Throughout his career Professor Scott has been passionate about patientcentred medicine and was pivotal in implementing clinical pharmacists onto ward-based settings. The initial pilot work for Integrated Medicines Management was initially started in 1999 after receiving funding from the Northern Ireland Executive programme funds. Needless to say, Mike is delighted with the MBE.

‘It is an honour and a privilege to be recognised in the New Year’s Honours list,’ he told Northern Notes. ‘Pharmacy has changed tremendously over the last 40 years and I am pleased that this work undertaken over the years with a number of highly motivated and enthusiastic colleagues primarily from both the health service and academia has contributed to improving the profession and has made a difference to the people of Northern Ireland. I have committed my professional life to improving pharmacy services in all settings and it is an honour to be a recipient of an MBE.

‘I’m delighted to say that MOIC is now an international leader in combining pharmaceutical and research and development skills with technology and business acumen to achieve smarter medicines and better outcomes for patients.

‘Since its launch in 2015, MOIC is renowned worldwide and has firmly put Northern Ireland on the map as being world leaders in pharmacy. Many countries throughout Europe and beyond look to MOIC for guidance and help in establishing pharmacy practices.

‘We’re also currently – in conjunction with the Northern Health and Social Care Trust - the Northern Ireland lead for the iSIMPATHY (Implementing Stimulating

‘The project follows on from the successful

medicine reviews in line with guidance and best practice developed during the initial SIMPATHY programme.

‘To date, pharmacists in Northern Ireland have completed approximately 1900 medicine reviews on patients, improving medicine use, polypharmacy and patient outcomes, and this is an achievement of which I am extremely proud.

‘It is hoped iSIMPATHY will lead to a significant contribution towards the embedding of a single approach for polypharmacy management and adherence as well as firmly establishing the value of cross-border working in this field and this will ultimately enable those with multiple morbidity to live healthy and active lives.’

World class line-up planned for 2023 North West Angling Fair

A host of world class fly dressers, casters and angling celebrities will join thousands of people on the banks of the Mourne on Saturday 1 April and Sunday 2 April when the North West Angling Fair returns to Strabane.

The annual event, hosted by Derry City and Strabane District Council and the Loughs Agency, attracted its biggest ever attendance last year, with over 3,500 people taking part.

The 2023 Fair was launched recently by Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Councillor Sandra Duffy.

‘The North West Angling Fair is a great opportunity for the public to see internationally-renowned fly dressers practising their art and champion fly casters demonstrating their skills on the Mourne,’ she told Northern Notes. ‘The free admission event offers advice and tactics for every level of angler from the experienced to those trying it for the first time.

‘It also offers an opportunity for local traders to get involved and showcase their products at one of the biggest events of the year in the district.’

Aeidin McCarter, Head of Culture at Council, said the event played a key role in raising the profile of the city and district as an Angling destination.

‘The Fair promotes angling as a desirable pastime for young people, underrepresented groups and women,’ he said.. ‘It also promotes our Council area from

a tourism perspective, highlighting the natural resources we are blessed with that make us an ideal visitor destination for anglers.”

Admission to the North West Angling Fair is free.

For full details visit www.derrystrabane. com/anglingfair.

Appeals for lacrosse memorabilia

North Down Museum has launched an appeal for memorabilia, photos and information relating to the Ards Lacrosse Club, which was the first lacrosse club to be formed in Ireland in 1872.

The museum is seeking to add to the collection of items already in the possession of Ards Historical Society, including All Ireland Championship trophies, pennants and photographs, which will be going on display as part of the Lacrosse Exhibition in Coffee Cure at North Down Museum on Tuesday 28 March. Any information will also form part of the museum’s archive on the history of the club.

Collated by members of Ards Historical Society and local historian Robin Masefield, the exhibition will highlight the rise of lacrosse in the late 19th century; local players and visiting teams; and Ards being unbeatable over the three seasons, winning both major trophies - the Irish Championship Flag and the Irish Challenge Shield.

Many influential Newtownards families played lacrosse in the 1920s and ‘30s, including the Russell family, and it is believed that Blair Mayne also enjoyed the sport.

If anyone would like to loan or donate items to the exhibition, or has any information for the archive, please get in touch with North Down Museum by emailing museum@ardsandnorthdown. gov.uk

The Ards Lacrosse Exhibition will run in North Down Museum from Tuesday 28 March until Sunday 30 April. Admission is free. For more information, visit andculture.org.uk/whats-on/ardslacrosse-club

Aeidin McCarter and Councillor Sandra Duffy at the launch of the North West Angling Fair 2023

Council) and Robin Masefield (local historian) with lacrosse sticks dated from 1938.

Image: Graham Baalham-Curry.

How do we address ageism in the workplace?

Dr Trudy Corrigan, School of Policy and Practice, Dublin City University reports that ageism is alive and well in many workplaces across Ireland.

‘I feel invisible,’ Maura remarked. Some years ago, before I became an assistant professor in the DCU Anti-Bullying Centre, I was teaching a local history class and Maura was my student. Her comment stopped me in my tracks, and I listened. The thing is, what Maura spoke about is what will happen to all of us eventually, even if we feel we still have so much to offer to society. Maura was among a group of active retired women who met every Wednesday in the local parish hall. I was lucky enough to teach them local history, but they taught me so much more and inspired me into the area of researching how we treat our oldest citizens, and how we can improve our culture when it comes to ageist attitudes.

‘When you hit your mid 50s, 60s, 70s and older, you become much less visible to other people,’ Maura said. After my first term as their teacher, their contributions caused me to reflect on my experience with them. I had studied history, philosophy, and English literature in university. Now through the prism of their shared stories, they were teaching me so much more. They had lived through the ‘Emergency’, which Ireland declared during World War Two. They recalled the difficult economic times of Ireland in the 1940s and the 1950s, the flooding of the local rivers.

The women’s stories became a kaleidoscope of the social and cultural history which shaped our world today. Eight years with them and two published books later, I had come to understand that they were teaching me much more than the history of

the area. They were teaching me about life, about their own personal stories of love, and their experiences of bereavement in their own families.

What I learned was their courage and resilience brought them through these experiences. They told me how important it is to have a sense of humour no matter what life throws at you. Yet frequently they felt invisible. I had this in mind when, some years later, as an assistant professor, I began to research ageism. This research shed light on the feeling of invisibility.

A new plan of action

In March 2021, the World Health Organisation (WHO) Global Report on Ageism highlighted a new plan for action to reduce ageism. This includes very specific recommendations to develop a partnership approach between government, civil society, organisations, and the private sector to understand ‘the nature and magnitude of ageism’. A key focus of the report is to outline the strategies to prevent ageism. It says that stereotyping has a negative impact on the well-being of older people. The report identified concerns about how we think, how we feel and how we behave towards older people.

Researchers are increasingly coming together to better understand the science of ageing, in collaboration with older adults. This collaborative approach to research is important as it highlights how older people are not one homogenous

group and that their needs and capabilities are very diverse. This research highlights the potential of older people, their knowledge, talent, and skills that can be of benefit in the workplace. This is not only beneficial for older people, but also for our communities, our economy and wider society.

In response to the 2021 WHO Global Report’s call for action to address ageism and provide solutions, the DCU AntiBullying Centre and Age & Opportunity, with support from the Irish Research Council, developed the POWER Ageing Report: Addressing Ageism in the Workplace and a one-day conference was held in DCU to launch the report. A specific focus of the conference and the research was looking at ageism in Ireland today and possible Solutions to Addressing Ageism in the Workplace. This was presented by myself, Mary Harkin of Age and Opportunity and Dr. Tanja Tillmanns from DCU Anti-Bullying Centre where we hosted a special seminar on the matter. The word POWER is derived from the acronym ‘Providing a Workplace Engagement Resolution,’ it is chiefly to highlight how we can together provide a solution-oriented approach to address ageism and provide a vision for workplaces to adopt a leadership role in addressing these issues into the future.

The conference was opened by Professor Daire Keogh, the President of DCU and by Professor James O’Higgins Norman, the director of the Anti-Bullying Centre DCU. President Keogh said ‘Ageism is often seen as a ‘harmless’ or a socially acceptable form of discrimination. Nothing could be further from the truth.’ Representatives from law firms such as William Fry

and Ormonde Solicitors were also in attendance; both law firms have published reports on this matter. In addition, the Economic and Social Research Institute together with The Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission provided presentations on the day. Trade Union representatives were also present. Ageism was presented in the context of it as a human rights issue, a legal issue, an issue pertinent to the workplace for older workers and its impact on the wider economy. We discovered through the report that the more advanced financial economies across the world tend to marginalise older people. One major influence which has attracted the attention of policy makers and academics is the rise of longevity (due to better health outcomes, we are all living longer) and the decrease in birth rates across many parts of the world. This results in the possibility of an older workforce and brings with it the need for more flexible forms of work and this need is evident in our findings.

The Power Ageing report found that in Ireland, between 2011 and 2016, the number of women aged 65 and over increased by almost 17%, while men aged 65 and over increased by 22%. It is expected that by 2051, there will be 1.5 million people aged 65 and over in Ireland. Despite these increased ageing figures, Ireland is still one of the youngest countries in the EU. This means that it is facing a timely opportunity to positively prepare in advance for future demographic changes. This is to eliminate prejudice, stereotypes, and discrimination. The report highlights how this can be done in the following ways: offer phased retirement options such as a progressive reduction of hours until retirement, offer flexible work schedules with

At the Addressing Ageism Conference in the Workplace Conference in DCU’s Solas Room from left to right Professor James O’Higgins Norman DCU Anti-Bullying Centre, Mary Harkin Age & Opportunity, Dr. Tanja Tillmanns DCU, Dr. Trudy Corrigan DCU, Sinéad Gibney, Chief Commissioner Irish Human Rights Equality Commission, Catherine O’Flynn, Partner, William Fry LLP, Conor Forde, William Fry, Neil Breheny. (Photograph Kyran O’Brien DCU)

part-time work and facilitate intergenerational interaction (older workers can coach and mentor younger workers and vice-versa). A new concept which emerged through our findings was to promote ‘job crafting’. This is also known as job alignment; older workers are matched to jobs that correspond with their expertise and creative thinking skills. This has a win-win benefit for an organisation since it can increase creative thinking and productivity. In addition, it provides older workers with an opportunity to continue to work in organisations in a creative way, which is beneficial for their overall well-being.

Conflict resolution

Other suggestions included the provision of conflict resolution structures to ensure that older workers can express their grievances or experiences of ageism in a safe environment, an environment that is willing to provide a solution-based approach. In addition, greater awareness of Employment legislation in all workplaces is advocated. In Ireland, the Employment Equality Acts 1995-2015 ensures that employees are not discriminated against under the nine grounds of discrimination, ageism is one of these. Developing an ethics framework where the mission statement of the employer highlights that ageism is not acceptable in the organisation can be very valuable for employers and employees. Too often, the legislation to prevent ageism through the Employment Equality Acts is sometimes not referenced or referred to in workplace guidelines.

Furthermore, the research identified that ageism is alive and well in many workplaces across Ireland and at a global level. It is particularly pervasive in three key areas. It was visible firstly, in the recruitment, or lack of recruitment of older workers. Secondly in access to further training opportunities in the workplace. Thirdly, it existed in the later stages of the working life for older workers. This was for example in adapting to their needs prior to retirement. While there was evidence in the report to these three key areas of employment, the research also highlighted examples of good practice in workplaces which addressed ageism.

Some companies have managed to lead in highlighting good practice when it comes to addressing ageism. In our research, a case study worth referencing is, the entrepreneur and author Chip Conley who joined Airbnb in 2013. After five years there, he wrote about the benefits of an intergenerational workforce. Based on his experience of working with colleagues in their twenties, he believes that each generation adds value. Together, this fosters ‘intergenerational wisdom’. Conley believes that this is an amalgamation of the emotional intelligence of older workers and the digital intelligence of younger workers. Today Conley actively promotes the inclusion of older workers in the workplace. He is the founder of The Modern Elder Academy. This is the world’s first ‘midlife wisdom school’ dedicated to long-life learning.

In addition to the 2021 WHO Global Report, there is a growing body of research which states that there is evidence of the capabilities of the brain as we age. It highlights that frequently the greatest problem for many older adults is the negative stereotypes which have been pervasive since we were young. Our earliest memories of childhood are the fairy tale stories read to us as children, for example, the ‘Wicked Old Witch’ featured strongly as a character to avoid and to be feared. Among our peers do we discuss the positive aspects of ageing, or are we a society that obsesses over youth, while reluctantly ageing? Are our later years, a time in our life which is discussed as a time to look forward to? Does ageism prevent older adults from being actively involved in workplace opportunities?

The psychiatrist and author Robert Butler, first spontaneously coined the term ‘ageism’ to highlight age related discrimination. He approached ageing with an understanding of it being a positive experience in a person’s life. He was interested in older people’s perceptions of themselves. When ageing was viewed in a positive way, he found this frequently contributed to their overall health. Where they felt invisible or had negative perceptions of themselves, this had the potential to have a negative impact on their health. His work presented one of the earliest understandings of raising awareness about the negative impacts of ageism. This was in contrast to the positive dimensions of ageing. He highlighted the talents and capabilities, not despite, but because of age. Since then, more research has been conducted which highlights that older adults have greater vocabulary and greater depth of meaning of this vocabulary, than when they were younger. Many older adults have learned from a lifetime of increased knowledge and experiences. There is also growing evidence that the brain has the capacity to change and adapt as we age. This means that many older people can manage new challenges and tasks. What they need is time to achieve these tasks. Frequently what prevents them from adapting to new challenges and change is ageist attitudes.

The Power Ageing report tells us that there are a growing number of older workers in Ireland. They have a right to demand a fair workplace where they can be productive, and a workplace where their talents and capabilities are valued. In doing this, workplaces set the standard to address ageism not only in the office, but in society. If the talents, knowledge, and capabilities of older people are valued, this therefore eliminates the feeling of invisibility that can pervade for many.

As Chip Conley said, ‘As we live and work longer, leaders need to redefine how they think about attracting and developing intergenerational talent.’ Collectively we need to change our culture, which means changing our attitudes and behaviours to address ageism. This can only be achieved when we work together in research and in practice, to ensure the visibility of older people in our society, in our communities and in our workplaces.

Dr Trudy Corrigan is with the School of Policy and Practice, Dublin City University

The Common Dental Problems People Over 50 Have

As people get older, their oral health needs change. The risk of dental issues increases with age, and individuals over 50 may face challenges with their teeth and gums. This article will discuss common dental problems people over 50 can have, how to prevent them, and people's options if their teeth fail.

Common Dental Issues People Over 50 Years Old Can Have:

1. Tooth Decay: Tooth decay is one of the most common dental problems people face. As individuals age, their teeth become weaker and more prone to decay, leading to cavities and tooth loss if not treated.

2. Gum Disease: Gum disease is also a common issue older individuals face. An infection of the gum tissue can lead to tooth loss and other serious health problems.

3. Dry Mouth: Dry mouth is a condition that occurs when there is not enough saliva in the mouth. Saliva is essential for maintaining oral health, as it helps to rinse away food particles and neutralise acids that can damage teeth.

4. Tooth Sensitivity: Tooth sensitivity is another common issue faced by older individuals. The exposure of the tooth's nerve endings can result in discomfort and pain when eating or drinking.

5. Stained Teeth: Over time, teeth can become discoloured due to various factors, including smoking, highpigment foods like coffee, curries and red wine and certain medications. Stained teeth can make individuals feel selfconscious about their smile.

6. Failing Restorations: We expect restorations, such as crowns and fillings, to last, on average, around 15 years. After that, they may not provide the required protection, and the aesthetics can decline.

7. Missing or Failing Teeth: Tooth loss is common in later years. Due to decay or gum disease, teeth can break down, become loose, and even come out.

8. Ill-Fitting Dentures: Over time, dentures can start to feel loose and move around in your mouth. This can be due to the denture itself or the condition of the teeth or gums supporting it.

9. Bacteria in other parts of the body: The bacteria associated with periodontitis can enter the bloodstream and travel to other parts of the body, potentially causing or contributing to other health problems like heart disease, diabetes, respiratory infections and arthritis.

How to Prevent Dental Issues:

1. Practice Good Oral Hygiene: Brushing and flossing daily can help prevent plaque build-up, which can lead to cavities and gum disease. Using fluoride toothpaste can also help to strengthen teeth and protect against decay.

2. Visit the Dentist Regularly: Regular dental check-ups can help to identify and treat dental issues before they become more serious. Dentists can also provide professional cleanings, which can help to remove plaque and tartar build-up.

3. Eat a Healthy Diet: Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and calcium can help maintain oral health. Limiting sugary and acidic foods and drinks is also important, as they can contribute to tooth decay.

4. Avoid Smoking: Smoking can increase the risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and other serious health problems. Quitting smoking can improve overall health and help to prevent dental issues.

Options for Treating Poor Teeth:

1. Dental Fillings: Dental fillings can treat cavities and prevent further decay. They involve removing the damaged portion of the tooth and filling the area with durable material, such as composite resin or amalgam.

2. Root Canal Therapy: Root canal therapy may be recommended if the tooth's nerve has been damaged or infected. It involves removing the nerve and pulp from the tooth and filling the area with a material to seal it.

3. Dental Crowns: Dental crowns can restore teeth that are damaged or decayed. They involve placing a cap over the tooth to protect it and improve its appearance.

4. Dentures: Dentures are removable appliances that replace missing teeth. They can be customised to fit the individual's mouth and provide a natural looking smile.

5. Dental Implants: Dental implants are a permanent solution for missing teeth. They involve placing a small titanium post into the jawbone and attaching a prosthetic tooth to the post.

Individuals over 50 may face specific challenges regarding their teeth and gums. Common dental issues older individuals face include tooth decay, gum disease, dry mouth, tooth sensitivity, stained teeth and failing or missing teeth. However, by practising good oral hygiene, eating a healthy diet and visiting the dentist regularly, you can maintain a beautiful set of teeth that will last a long time.

If you have any questions or concerns, you can visit 3Dental at the Dublin 50 Plus Show in the RDS on Apr 14th and 15th.

·

Top

Tips

·

for your stay at Sunset Beach Club:

LEARN TO MAKE PAELLA!

Guests can learn how to make paella with the entertainment team, and enjoy a glass of wine. This free activity is available once a week, most of the year, so make sure to check the hotel’s Activity Programme!

DON’T MISS THE PANORAMA BAR

Located on the 6th floor of Sunset Beach Club, here you will find a great value bar & cocktail menu (large glass of wine 4.50€, pint of beer 5€), sports TV and fabulous views. This is a popular place for guests to meet at the daily Happy Hour, with a 2x1 offer on standard drinks!

ALL ROOMS HAVE A KITCHEN & TERRACE

Sunset Beach Club’s convenient combination of apartment-style accommodation with hotel services gives guests the best of both worlds! If you don’t fancy eating out, you can have a quiet night in, and cook in your apartment, or order a Takeaway from the Oasis Restaurant to enjoy on the terrace!

Spring Breaks

Sunset Beach Club, Spain

· 20 minutes Málaga Airport

· Apartments with Kitchenette and Terrace

· Free Activities & Entertainment

Laying the

foundation

Foundation is the most important product in your make-up arsenal, and so it is essential to get it right. While nobody wants to end up with an ‘orange’ face, we need a good foundation to apply blusher and highlighter on, and of course we should always use one with a good SPF to protect against skin damage from the sun. Foundation comes as either a liquid, cream or powder makeup – liquid being the most popular – and is applied to the face and neck to create an even colour to the complexion,

Max Factor continues to be a very popular make-up brand today, and when it comes to foundation, their Miracle Pure skin-improving foundation ticks all the boxes when looking for product that will provide that healthy glow to your skin. It gives twenty-four hour hydration and contains Hyaluronic Acid and vitamin C, has an SPF of 30 and gives an even coverage that lasts throughout the day. It is very affordable and suitable for sensitive skin also.

products have soared! However historically water-soluble lead paint was widely used and throughout the 17th century women wore ceruse, which was a lethal mixture of vinegar and white lead. They also applied egg whites to their faces to create a shiny complexion. Down through the years, many men and women actually died from wearing lead-based make-up.

The arrival of modern-day make-up products dates back to the arrival on the scene of Max Factor who was born in Russia and emigrated to America in 1914 to be closer to the budding film industry. Word of Max Factor’s expertise quickly spread and he was soon working with

Hollywood’s leading film stars and making his own cosmetic products for a glamorous but realistic look on screen. In 1916 he started selling eye shadow and eyebrow pencils. This was the first time such products were available outside the movie industry. Four years later he launched a full range of cosmetics, calling it ‘make-up’ – a phrase he coined. The make-up products and techniques Max Factor created for the movie industry and his Hollywood clients even earned him an Oscar. He was known for creating the signature looks of the era’s most famous icons such as Ava Gardner, Jean Harlow

Another well priced foundation for its quality comes from Note a brand you will find in most pharmacies. Their luminous moisturizing foundation for dry skin contains Macadamia oil and sweet almond oil. Both known for their anti-aging and anti-oxidant properties, the foundation leaves a satiny luminous finish and dries quickly while lasting well throughout the day. NOTE also have a BB Cream which can be used instead of foundation if you like. It is an advanced skin corrector which successfully conceals age spots and brightens your skin tone. I recommend using this BB Cream on days when you are not wearing much, if any, other make-up. It gives a light natural glow, and smoothes the fine lines.

Mairead Robinson stresses the importance of using the correct foundation.

demonstrated by Elizabeth Taylor in the film Cleopatra

Of course when it comes to wearing make-up, the most important step is to ensure that you are protecting your skin against the damaging effects of the sun. Always check the SPF of the products you use on your face, and especially on summer days. Many of us have sensitive skin and it is vital to avoid sun exposure and to use the right products.

A favourite brand for those with sensitive skin is Avene and they have a tinted moisturiser with an SPF of 50. There is one specifically for oily skin, and another for dry skin. This will ensure that you will look and feel great and most importantly will stay safe during the summer days outside. Check out the Eau Thermale range from Avene at your local pharmacy.

And finally, it is important to match your skin tone with the correct shade of foundation. Try a little on the back of your hand before you put it on your face, massage it in gently and see how it

looks. When you do put the foundation on your face, be sure to include the whole face, including around the eyes and up to the ears and hair line. It is always a good idea to use a hair band to take all the hair away from your face before you start. There is also nothing worse than a face make up that stops at the chin, and leaves a white neck underneath! So blend the foundation down towards your neck and if you are wearing low cut summer clothes – and not wearing fake tan – you might like to check your shoulders and chest.

There are many great products out there now, and some are surprisingly affordable, so do find the foundation that suits both your skin type and skin tone. And of course do protect your skin, not only from serious illness but also from the aging effects of sun exposure. Since we have been using make-up for circa 6,000 years, we should have perfected how to wear it by now!

The arrival of modern-day make-up products dates back to the arrival on the scene of Max Factor who was born in Russia and emigrated to America in 1914

Clara Bowe was an early poster girl for the cosmetics industry

Meeting Place

DO YOU WANT TO BECOME A TRAVEL BUDDY? Connect with likeminded people by joining an established group covering all regions. We facilitate meetings for breaks, walking trips, shows, events etc. Individual and small group partners in travel arrangements at home an abroad enabled. {;ease include a mobile number and/or email when replying.

REPLY TO BOX NUMBER R1

TALL SINGLE PROFESSIONAL LADY

WLTM single professional Irish gentleman 65-75 for socialising and maybe a relationship. Many interests include ballroom dancing, world travel, going to the concert hall, theatre, eating out, current affairs, GAA, swimming. Must be of generous nature.

REPLY TO BOX NUMBER R2

MUNSTER LADY, sincere with a positive outlook and having a zest for life, Widowed. Enjoys social interaction, reading, art, dining out, travel, gardening, country and coastal exploration drives and rambles. WLTM a genuine, kind, personable unattached gent NS with GSOH in his 70s to share laughter and interests.

REPLY TO BOX NUMBER R3

DUBLIN MALE CROSS-DRESSER

WLTM others for chats and possible meetups. Have contacts for clothes. Discretion assured. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER R4

WIDOW 67, living in Dublin, originally from Meath. WLTM a nice gentleman who is interested in cinema, theatre, travel, walks, music, coffee and restaurant Dates. A guy with a GSOH like myself would be fun yippee! REPLY TO BOX NUMBER R5

NORTH CO DUBLIN WIDOW, 75., GSOH, NS but happy to have the odd drink and great chats and laughs. WLTM a gentleman who is sincere and loyal, who likes cinema, theatre and enjoys each other’s company. I want to meet that special man –could be you!

REPLY TO BOX NUMBER R6

DUBLIN MALE LATE 50s, SEPARATED, NS, SD, GSOH, average height/build. Many interests. WLTM lady of similar age for friendship/companionship.

REPLY TO BOX NUMBER R7

TIPPERARY LADY. SEMI-RETIRED. 65, WLTM ladies and gents for friendship/companionship from Tipperary and neighbouring counties. Interests include gardening, walking, eating out, music and cinema

REPLY TO BOX NUMBER R8

GALWAY MAN, 5ft 8in, 12 stone, interest include sport and keep-fit. Would like to

hear from other males. Age unimportant. Clergy welcome.

REPLY TO BOX NUMBER R9

WATERFORD LADY MID 60s, NS, SD, considered attractive, slim build. Interests include all kinds of music, concerts, cinema, the great outdoors, weekends away. WLTM genuine, sincere gent 60s-70s, no ties, for friendship, social outings with view to a relationship.

REPLY TO BOX NUMBER R10

HELLO LADIES, I’M A 60 YEARS YOUNG Dublin gent. I’m fun to be with, smart dresser, positive attitude. Interests include eating out, sports and weekends aways. WLTM a lady who would like to add adventure to her life and get up and dance right now! Lets get together—cheers!

REPLY TO BOX NUMBER R11

RESPECTABLE CO WEXMAN MAN 73, 6ft, single, no ties, very well presented, young at heart, GSOH, NS, SD. Genuinely seeks long term relationship with like-minded lady anywhere in Ireland. Honesty and sincerity are assured and expected. Age, looks and status are not important but cheerfulness and kindness would make me very happy. Can relocate. Interested include walking, reading, current affairs, sport, good conversation, travel home and abroad, theater, weekends away and keeping fit/active

REPLY TO BOX NUMBER Z2

KERRY LADY 55, 5ft 9in, GSOH, stylish. Interests include different music, jazz/blues, classical (not C&W). Also reading, visiting museums, galleries. Animal lover. WLTM a gentleman for friendship, dining out, cosy winter evenings in with good food which may lead to something wonderful.

REPLY TO BOX NUMBER Z3

A SHOT IN THE DARK. I am a north Dublin female. I met a man though Meeting Place about five years ago might be reading this. We arranged another meeting but unfortunately I had to cancel for family reasons. Couldn’t make contact again as I changed my phone number and I lost his number. I am early 70s, petite, short blonde hair. My first name starts with a C. Would love to hear from you again.

REPLY TO BOX NUMBER Z4

DUBLIN GENT, SEMI RETIRED, 70, WLTM, female, all counties welcome. Age flexible. Own house/car. I’m caring, generous supportive.

REPLY TO BOX NUMBER Z5

CO CORK DIVORCED FEMALE, 49. Attractive, kin, caring, romantic, NS, ND.

GSOH, no ties. WLTM a genuine, sincere, loyal gent 45-60, NS, ND or SD with no ties, for social outings, dating, regular meet ups with a view to a lasting relationship. Interests include country music, darts, eating out, agricultural shows, romantic trips etc.

REPLT TO BOX NUMBER Z6

TALL SINCLE PROFESSIONAL LADY

WLTM tall, single professional Irish gentleman with a car aged 68-75 for socialising and maybe a relationships, Many interests include ballroom dancing, world travel, concert going, theatre, eating out, current affairs, GAA, swimming. Must be of generous nature.

REPLY TO BOX NUMBER Z7

NORTH EAST WIDOW, 70s, NS. SD WLTM a kind man. Like all types of music.

REPLY TO BOX NUMBER Z8

LEINSTER MAN EARLY 70s, NS, ND. Interests include country life, gardening, travel, cinema, current affairs. Friendly, honest, sincere. WLTM lady of similar age with similar interests.

REPLY TO BOX NUMBER Z9

DUBLIN TRAINED MASEUR, 70, WLTM ladies. All counties, all ages. Free service.

REPLY TO BOX NUMBER Z10

GETTING TO KNOW YOU! Young at heart, 60s, outgoing, North Co Dublin lady WLTM young at heart gent for happiness and to brighten up retirement years. Many and varied interests including cinema, all types of music, chats over coffee/tea/drink, afternoon drives and strolls in the country, travel home and away.

REPLY TO BOX NUMBER A1

DUBLIN WIDOWER, 72, 6ft 1in, NS, SD, GSOH WLTM a lady for friendship/ companionship. Interests include travel, theatre, music. I am from a bygone are of conversation in a nice restaurant with a glass of wine.

REPLY TO BOX NUMBER A2

DUBLIN GENT 60 BUT 30 AT HEART, single, excellent health, medium build, presentable. Aversions to baking, walking up hills, camping, history, ballroom dancing and brussels sprouts. Likes tranquillity, enjoying life and adventure. WLTM lady whose glass is always half full and if so a bunch of flowers is on its way.

REPLY TO BOX NUMBER B2

NORTH CO DUBLIN LADY, 70s, NS WLTM a well-spoken, funny and good-humoured gentleman. My interests include books, films, and going places. We can be great friends and companions. I am good

company and love interesting chats which would possibly lead to a loyal relationship.

REPLY TO BOX NUMBER B3

KILDARE MAN MID 70s, slim, fit and good appearance WLTM a lady 65 to mid-70s to share C&W music and dancing, travel home and abroad, eating out etc. to share the good times together.

REPLY TO BOX NUMBER B4

EARLY 80s SOUTH CO DUBLIN WOMAN, very fit, slim, NS, SD and considered to look in my 60s. WLTM professional gentleman approx. same age for companionship, preferably Dublin area. Must be slim. My interests include dining out, good conversation, theatre and reading. GSOH.

REPLY TO BOX NUMBER B5

DUBLIN FEMALE CROSS DRESSER

WLTM others for chats and possible meet ups. Have contacts for clothes and discretion assured.

REPLY TO BOX NUMBER B6

SOUTH DUBLIN FEMALE 60 WLTM others for dancing, socialising. Can travel anywhere by public transport If you would be kind enough to accommodate. Respectable, genuine, friendly.

REPLY TO BOX NUMBER B 8

SOUTHWEST GENTLEMAN EARLY 70s. GSOH and a zest for life. Interests include C&W dancing, walking, reading, cinema, golf, all kinds of sport and foreign holidays. WLTM nice lady with some similar interests.

REPLY TO BOX NUMBER B9

CO DUBLIN LADY EARLY 60s wishes to meet a kind gentleman. I enjoy walking by the sea and watercolour painting. I also like going out to the theatre. I look forward to meeting that special someone. A gentleman who enjoys making the most of every day!

REPLY TO BOX NUMBER B11

RETIRED PROFESSIONAL DUBLIN

LADY, 70. Hobbies include walking, reading, meditation, travel, eating out, music, dancing, cinema, theatre. WLTM professional gent for friendship/relationship.

REPLY TO BOX NUMBER B12

SINCERE, KIND CO MEATH WIDOW, caring and loving, lonely, good listener GGSOH. Interests include theatre, reading music, dancing WLTM a personable kind gent for friendship and companionship, preferably a widower. Age range 80ish.

REPLY TO BOX NUMBER B13

QUALIFIED MASSAGE THERAPIST, 60, Dublin Based would like to meet mature ladies and couples for massage. I have my

own place in Dublin 12 and I can accommodate overnight. There is no charge for this massage or for accommodation. Go on why not enjoy a nice massage and do some shopping in Dublin as well.

REPLY TO BOX NUMBER B14

KILKENNY LADY, 72, KIND AND ATTRACTIVE WLTM ladies and gents for socialising. Interests include walking, eating out and travel.

REPLY TO BOX NUMBER B15

CO DUBLIN LADY early 60s wishes to meet a kind gentleman. I enjoy walking by the sea and watercolour painting. I also like going out to the theatre. I look forward to meeting that special someone. A gentleman who enjoys making the most of every day!

REPLY TO BOX NUMBER B16

RETIRED LADY NURSE WLTM genuine, sincere, romantic gent aged 60s to 70s from Dublin and surrounds. Interested include reading, walking, piano music, nature and animals.

REPLY TO BOX NUMBER O3

WELSH-BORN PROFESSIONAL MALE 69, divorced, into arts, now living in Wexford rural retreat. Seeking similar fit and intelligent lady who enjoys love, laughter, the sound of woodpeckers as much as jazz.

REPLY TO BOX NUMBER O4

LEINSTER WIDOW GOOD NATURED, full of the joys of life. Retired from a profession. Lots of interests. WLTM a personable, refined, educated gent for chats. Preferably a widower 80-85.

REPLY TO BOX NUMBER O5

COUNTY DUBLIN GENT, MID 60s, NS, SD, slim, fit and good appearance, GSOH, Interests include walking, reading, concerts, music, travel, eating out, current affairs.

WLTM lady 60-70 with a GSOH.

REPLY TO BOX NUMBER O6

DOWN TO EARTH DUBLIN MALE, 69, SEPARATED. Young at heart, slim build, fairly fit, NS, SD. Neat appearance and dresses well with a GSOH. Likes the great outdoors, country walks and hikes. Likes travelling abroad and weekends away. Likes concerts, dining out, classical music and history. WLTM a nice feminine lady with similar tastes and outlook.

REPLYTO BOX NUMBER O8

KILKENNY LADY EARLY 70s, young at heart. Interests include walking, sport, eating out and travel. Kind, attractive. WLTM gent with similar interests.

REPLY TO BOX NUMBER O9

MUNSTER WIDOWER EARLY 60s. Retiring soon. Tall, dark, slim. Interests include current affairs, sport and gardening. WLT, a

nice lady with similar interests to share the good times together.

REPLY TO BOX NUMBER O10

SINGLE WATERFORD LADY, 64. Retired, GSOH. Interests include country music concerts, classical music, history, reading, arts and crafts, TV and radio. Seeks penfriends and soulmates currently living in the Southeast.

REPLY TO BOX NUMBER O11

RETIRED, CARING PROFESSIONAL WIDOW loves travel, the countryside and the Wild Atlantic Way, having a positive outlook and a broad range of interests WLTM a genuine, interesting, kind, good humoured happy gent 70's from Limerick and nearby counties  for friendship/companionship and  hopefully to develop a lasting connection.

REPLY TO BOX NUMBER O12

TO PLACE AN ADVERTISEMENT

If you are interested in meeting someone of the opposite or same sex, send your advertisement, with four stamps (which is the average reply rate) enclosed in the envelope, to:

Meeting Place, Senior Times, PO Box 13215, Rathmines, Dublin 6 Or email: john@slp.ie

IMPORTANT

Ensure you give your approximate age and the area you live, noting your interests. The advertisement should not be more than 60 words.

If you are replying to the advertisement via Senior Time’s email, ensure you include your postal address for those not on the Net. (Only Senior Times will have these details). Deadline for receipt of advertisements for the next issue is April 20th 2023.

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).

Three copies of the stunning

In association with the publishers The O’Brien Press, Senior Times are offering three copies of Ireland’s Islands in this issue’s crossword competition. Take a photographic journey around Ireland’s coast and explore the landscapes, history, heritage and wildlife of our offshore islands. Photographers Carsten Krieger and Richard Creagh have a deep love for and knowledge of these special places. From rugged cliffs thronged with seabirds to tranquil bays, and from quiet strands to bustling villages, their words and images bring to life the uniqueness of these small, sea-locked worlds. Over 200 magnificent colour photographs.

Name:

Address:

Phone:

Email:

Crossword

Crossword

Number 122 by Zoë Devlin

ACROSS

1 Instrument of Liberace & John O’Connor (5)

4 Is the candle down for this Leinster county? (7)

8 Fabric made from threads of insect larvae (4)

10 Is this the smartest large part of a bed? (8)

16 Make more trim or spruce (7)

17 Yield or surrender (7)

18 Sharp claw on bird of prey (5)

19 I bail out this legal form of defence (5)

20 Dublin city area, close to St James’s Gate (7)

21 Lament for the dead (5)

22 US film actor & crooner, Bing ___ (6)

23

Small bug such as beetle or earwig (6)

24 Was ___ Barnacle found in an anorak? (4)

26 City of Pope’s residence in Italy (7)

29 Manservant such as Jeeves (5)

32 Insect or Volkswagen? (6)

38 Sleep lightly (4)

39 Gemstone of variable colours (4)

40 Rock that issues from volcanos (4)

41 Lacking freshness (5)

42 Performance area of Abbey or Gate theatre (5)

46 A little more (5)

47 Raise or lift on a late eve? (7)

48 Our monetary unit pre Euro. (4)

49 Is this the meatiest approximation of cost? (8)

51 Conor Cruise ___or Edna ___? (1'5)

53 Member of ship’s crew (6)

55 Enlisted man or woman in an army (7)

56 Was Beckett waiting for him? (5)

58 Fashion reminiscent of the past (5)

60 The laciest stretchy band of rubber! (7)

63 Sofa or couch (6)

65 Shaved off fine layers of wood (6)

69 Damn rain! Chinese dialect or small orange? (8)

70 Den of wild animals (4)

71 Collapsible, handheld source of shade (7)

73 Japanese delicacy, rice, raw fish & seaweed (5)

76 Flooded or inundated (5)

77 Delete or remove from existence (5)

78

Egg-shaped - elliptic (4)

79 Distinguished female operatic singer (4)

80 This burden is on us! (4)

83 Brownish songbird with spotted breast (6)

86 US rock singer, Bill ___ (5)

87 Ennui .. dissatisfaction .. tedium (7)

88 Gradual ebb or decline (4)

92 Dreary, dingy, gloomy (6)

93 In suitable condition to be eaten (6)

96 Remains or old-fashioned girdles (5)

98

Refined & graceful, with a gentle appearance? (7)

101 Smooth nut of the oak tree (5)

102 US writer __ Allan Poe (5)

103 Irish author ___ Walsh, wrote ‘The Quiet Man’ (7)

104 Chapel in the Pope’s official residence (7)

105 Time without end in its entirety! (8)

106 Hole for the escape of gas or air (4)

107 Plant where beer is produced (7)

108 Hungarian composer & 1A virtuoso (5)

DOWN

1 Put off to a later time (8)

2 Dismay, consternation, shock (5)

3 Is there an oil tax on this type of soup? (6)

4 Framework containing glass, built into wall (6)

5 Pedal a bike (5)

6 Women’s underwear (8)

7 Scrawny, scraggy or thin (5)

8 Preliminary drawing or brief description (6)

9 There’s a lot to win in this game! (5)

11 Relative found in taunting haunts (4)

12 One who is being trained (7)

13 Apparent, obvious, unmistakable (7)

14 Jonathan ___, author of ‘Gulliver’s Travels’ (5)

15 Association of people with similar interests (4)

25 Shelter with perches for fowl (5)

27 Form of quartz used as a gemstone (5)

28 One who pursues a study as a pastime (7)

30 Military structure storing arms & ammunition (7)

31 Set of questions to evaluate knowledge (4)

33 Mountain in central Himalayas (7)

34 Ten years (6)

35 Fire iron or card game (5)

36 Can you let us camp on this university ground? (6)

37 Dish such as tiramisu or banoffi pie (7)

42 Sharp pain caused by insect (5)

He acquired a magic

100 Subdivision of a larger religious group (4)

A Badge for Saint Patrick’s Day

were finished as the entire class then made really pretty Mother’s Day gift bookmarks, Lavender sachets and cards using charts that one of the mothers had found in a craft book that was on sale in an Eason’s bookstore. It was gratifying to see the badges with sprigs of shamrock tucked behind fixed on lapels on that St Patrick’s Day in Termonfeckin and I know that there were some very happy mothers who received a beautiful handmade gift from a son or daughter on Mother’s day that year.

I am showing a photo of the St Patrick’s day badge and a photo of one of the potpourri/lavender sachets that were made as Mother’s Day gifts

Saint Patrick's day badge

Expertise- beginner, time- 1 hour, cost 50p

Requirements- 14 HP 1 Aida-3cm x 3cm white

Gold satin ribbon 22 cm x 2.5cm

Gold no 40 sen-ing cotton

Anchor stranded cotton 2 strandsremnant or 1 skein of green no 0227

Tapestry needle size 24, scissors a thimble and prittstick

Step 1

Fold the fabric in hatfboth ways and mark the centre, count down to bottom of the motif and start there

Step 2

Work the cross stitch in 2 strands of the stranded cotton

Step 3

Wash the work in tepid suds and iron while damp

Step 4

Fold the ribbon so as the top edge will lie 2cms above the bottom edge and press in place.

Make two or three tiny backstitches at each side of the folded ribbon where the shamrock motif will be placed. Cut both ends of the folded ribbon diagonally from right to left.

Pull 1 thread from each side of the shamrock motif and fix securely in place on the folded ribbon using Pritt stick.

Materials available in most craft/fabric shops.

Children love wearing or 'sporting' a pretty badge surrounded by shamrock on St. Patrick's day, this one is so simple they could make one themselves.

Connie McEvoy.

Connie McEvoy show how to make a badge for a special day

You have the power to cross oceans with your support. When you donate to the Irish Red Cross, you make a real and lasting impact on the lives of others, both here in Ireland and around the world. Whether you’re interested in our national services, or you want to help fund the extreme humanitarian need that we see daily overseas, your gift will make a difference.

As we get older, we often think about our legacy and what we can do to make a lasting impact on the world around us. Leaving a gift in your Will to the Irish Red Cross is a powerful way to support the national services that they provide in Ireland and the humanitarian aid that they deliver abroad.

Making a Will is an important step for all of us, regardless of our age or circumstances. The Irish Red Cross has partnered with LawOnline to ensure that your wishes can be clearly and legally documented, without cost and from the comfort of your own home. This service is free and it’s an excellent way to ensure that your estate is distributed according to your wishes. It is not necessary to leave the Irish Red Cross a gift in your Will if you wish to use the service, although we would love it if you do.

The Irish Red Cross has been providing invaluable support to communities in Ireland and around the world since 1939. With over 80 branches across the country, the organization has a proud history of responding to crises and emergencies, as well as providing vital social and community services.

To find out more about how you can support the Irish Red Cross, or leave a legacy to outlast your lifetime, please visit our website at www.redcross.ie or contact the team directly by calling 01 642 4649, or emailing mellwood@redcross.ie, to reach Mackenzie Ellwood, a member of our fundraising team.