College Tribune Volume XXVI Issue 4 by College Tribune

COLLEGE TRIBUNE Volume XXVI 23rd October 2012

Issue 4 Independent Student Media Since 1989

collegetribune.ie Taking back the streets

PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION 2012: BEHIND THE VEIL

INSIDE

Page 9

Students protest against library lockouts and Sunday closures Thomas Cullen Deputy News Editor

CD students held a protest march against Sunday closures and access restrictions that have been implemented in the James Joyce library. The march took place on Thursday 18th October and included protests outside both the library and the Tierney building which houses the university’s administrative offices. The protest was part of a campaign that is led by students against the closure of the library on Sundays for the first seven weeks of the semester due to budgetary cutbacks. The protest was also held on behalf of students who have been barred access to the library for not having fees paid on time despite the circumstances being outside of their control, due to delays on receiving grants or difficulties in affording to pay the full fees amount. The organisers used facebook, flyers and posters around campus to inform people about the event. UCD Students’ Union were not directly involved in organising the event, although the sabbatical officers marched in support of the protest. The students involved gathered outside the student centre at 1pm on the day of the protest and marched on the library using banners and a megaphone to gather people’s attention on the issue. The students then seated themselves in the front of the library before a decision was made to march on the Tierney building, where the protesters where denied access by security. Throughout the event various speakers including UCDSU President Rachel Breslin, former SU employee Elizabeth Coote and International Students Coordinator Karl Gill spoke to the crowd about the effects that the restric-

tions where having on students. Second year student Niall Dunne who helped organise the protest spoke to the College Tribune about the march stating that “there was a lot of passion there and people felt strongly about it. This is only the beginning. Until the library services are put back to normal, and students are able to use them, regardless of their financial situation we are not going anywhere. This is a university at the end of the day, an education institute. If they can’t give us fundamental services such as a library then they can’t call themselves an education institute. So we have to fight.” Question’s where also raised during the protest over the Students’ Union’s involvement in the march. Niall Dunne commented on the SU’s involvement, saying “it’s great that the union got behind it, Rachel said a good few words and obviously seemed very passionate about it. They could have done more organising, but I have to respect them for coming out, it’s a big improvement on last year and hopefully they stick with it and keep building.” “The union are here to represent student interests on campus, and this is a massive interest for students. We really need the likes of the campaigns crew to be the ones out here leading the campaign and out here organising it, because that’s their area of expertise at the end of the day,” he continued. SU Education Officer Shane Comer also spoke to the Tribune about the importance of the protest, saying that “The library is the key resource of any university. It is great to see that the students came Continued on page 3

Above:

UCD SU budget discussion back on the table Ronan Coveney News Writer

he UCD Students’ Union budget is set to be discussed again this Thursday at the meeting of the Students’ Union Council following concerns that it was passed without time for members of council to review the document and consult with students from their constituencies. No copies of the Students’ Union budget for the year were available for Union Council Representatives prior to it being approved by the Students’ Union Council at the first meeting of the Council for this term on Thursday 11th of October. The budget for the year ahead was shown during a presentation made by Gerry Mc Nally from Mc Nally Business Services who have been providing financial services and advice to the Students’ Union

over the past number of months. Speaking to the College Tribune about the matter Masters Union Council Representative in the school of Arts Stephen Stokes said: “I always believe that student government, needs to be...I suppose as proactive and transparent, so I would say yes, that it would be ideal if that [the prior publication of the budget] could have be done.” Meanwhile a number of Union Council Reps contacted the College Tribune to complain, feeling that they should have received such an important document before council so they could review and fully debate before approving it. Speaking to the College Tribune about the situation UCD Students’ Union President Rachel Breslin said that “it wasn’t the best way to

go about it....I think that that’s a very valid point [in] that the budget should be sent around before council.” She continued, “I think what I’m going to do this week is send around the budget again because this had been brought to my attention, and put it as an item for discussion and if it’s contentious then we’ll take another vote.” Breslin did defend having the vote on the budget, saying, “I think it was still right to vote on it because it’s going to be sent around and it’s out in the public now anyway.” Meanwhile the Students’ Union accounts have been sent to external auditors Grant Thorton before they can be signed off on, after which Breslin stated it was her wish to release them.

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COLLEGE TRIBUNE 23rd October 2012

25thOctober 11th October2011 2011

INSIDE THE TRIBUNE

COLLEGE

TRIBUNE

“One of the penalties for refusing to participate in politics is that you end up being governed by your inferiors.” –Plato James Grannell Editor

his week saw an astounding demonstration of political apathy amongst the students of UCD as a protest organised to highlight the various cuts and problems with the library service saw only a tiny percentage of students take part. One can’t help but wonder at the general lack of interest that most students show when it comes to such issues. Are the majority of UCD students from such comfortable socio-economic backgrounds that they don’t need to worry about their own financial situations impacting on their use of services in the university? Do such individuals really care so little about their less well-off classmates?

The number of students availing of various grant schemes would suggest that these conclusions shouldn’t be true, and yet they didn’t turn out to march. Perhaps this had more to do with the links such protests are perceived to have with the various leftwing organisations on campus. The argument could be made that many students do not want to be linked with the more radical elements within student politics. Surely however, this issue, and other issues like it ought to transcend political boundaries. For many however, the protest is still the domain of the radical left. If students are ever to achieve the change we desire we must first overcome the political prejudices inherent in us all. We must be prepared to join those we may not

fullly agree with in order to achieve a common goal. Partisan politics will only divide us and, ultimately, be our downfall. This is not of course to say that we should seek constant consensus or too close a union with one another. We ought to be prepared to work together from time to time nevertheless. On a matter as important to students as library access, the blueshirts and the anarchists within the college should surely find agreement. We do after all use the same service day in and day out as part of our degree. Never should we be content to allow others to do the shouting for us. Never should we walk past bemused as others fight. If we don’t stand by one another and stand up for the rights of our fellow students, then there may come a day when

we find ourselves standing alone without a support system to help us stand in the face of hardship and difficulty. This solidarity ought not be confined to our fellow students, but should also be extended to those for whom UCD is a place of employment, whether they are academics or cleaning staff. It is often said that UCD is a lonely place that lacks a sense of community. We are the ones who can create that community. We are the ones who can unite to support each other, because if you’re not willing to care for others you shouldn’t be astounded when others don’t care about you.

Editor

ast week saw the commencement of a seminar entitled “Bearing the Brunt? Women and the Recession.” The National Women’s Council called on the Government to protect women’s equality in Budget 2013 and put equality at the centre of its approach. Speaking at the seminar, Thora Thorsdottir of the University of Iceland highlighted how gender was an important factor in tackling the crisis in Iceland: “Gender equality has been protected in Iceland because the government made gender a central issue in their approach.” Reflecting on Thorsdottir's presentation, Orla O’Connor, Director

of NWCI, said, “Ireland could learn a lot from the Icelandic approach where there was a clear commitment to gender equality. Budgets are about choices.” At the seminar Dr Pauline Conroy and Dr Ursula Barry drew on a range of examples to show how equality for women has been cast aside in the big picture of the crisis. Dr Ursula Barry said, “Gender and inequality have come together in the crisis. The mismanagement of the crisis is having a disproportionate impact on women.” She added ”Political decisions can be influenced by ethical concepts. We need an ethical framework in which to guide our decision making.” Dr Conroy added “Gender inequalities are deepening. But the erosion of some of the equality infrastructure

COLLEGE TRIBUNE Editors: Cathal O'Gara James Grannell editor@collegetribune.ie News Editor: James Grannell Deputy News Editor: Thomas Cullen News In Focus Editor: Dawn Lonergan

makes it difficult to highlight this.” Yesterday saw Gender equality week launch in UCD, with events taking place surrounding the issues of employment inequality, LGBT rights, body image and much more. However what this 'gender equality week' seems to lack is an equal dissemination of the issues that are involved in acknowledging and achieving gender equality in Ireland. Gender inequality is not limited to women or LGBT individuals. The inequality that exists between men and women in Ireland affects men in a more incendiary way. Men’s stereotypical role as the dominant and strong members of society constructs an environment in which men are generally not provided the opportunity to choose their own

identity. Instead, they are propelled into virile, aggressive stereotypes that restrict their own freedom of expression. The pressure to be the sole breadwinner leaves men impotent in the possibility of becoming the primary caregiver in the household. Gender inequality is not yet a thing of the past, though it is beneficial to look to the past in order to gain a better grasp on what it is that we should be striving for. As Shelley said, "I do not wish women to have power over men, but over themselves." Gender Equality Week in UCD runs until this Thursday with over 30 organized events on campus. Turn to page 13 to find out more.

Contributors List Features Editor: Michael Phoenix

Chief Writer: Sarah Doran

Turbine Editor: Candi Wilde

Music Editor: Ciaran Breslin

Eagarthóirí Gaeilge: Cormac Breathnach Daire Brennan

Fashion Editor: Róisín Sweeney

Sports Editors: Conall Devlin Amy Eustace

Arts Editor: Conor Fox Designer: Cheryl Flood

Matthew H. Farrelly Ronan Coveney Rachel Carey Darragh Ó Tuathail Helen Lawless Darragh Morriarty Christopher Ahearne Niall Conroy Eoin Callaghan Cathal Mac Dhaibhéid Eoin P. Ó Murchú Aisling Sheerin

Debate finds in favour of abortion Page 3

NEWS IN FOCUS Don’t mention the A-word Page 6

FEATURES You got a friend in me Page 7

SCIENCE The journey to the great beyond Page 10

REGULARS Gentleman and a Scholar Page 15

I do not wish men to have power over women, but over themselves Cathal O'Gara

NEWS

Elizabeth Coote Benny O’Regan Anthony Strogen Cian Mollen Thomas Hobbs Chris Becton Stephen West Sinéad Slattery Joseph Gallagher Theresa Martaus Darragh O’Connor Lisa Gorry

GNÉ - AILT Cad atá i ndán don rothaíocht ghairmiúil? Page 14

SPORT UCDSC Attend IUSA Easterns Page 18

EDITORS' CHOICE You got a friend in me Page 7 James and Cathal say: The wonderful Helen Lawless looks at the latest USI LGBT Ally campaign and reminds us that it takes more than a wristband to support a cause.

Shane Meagher Lauren Tracey Anninka E Barry

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COLLEGE TRIBUNE 23rd October 2012

Major overhaul of James Joyce Library

Continued from front page

Matthew H. Farrelly

long term planning of the library with the core library administration team to move to Level 4. Shane Comer, UCDSU Education Officer, told the College Tribune, “what is happening is that the main administrative staff, who are currently scattered in offices in various locations around the library, are being relocated to one specific area which will be on the third floor.” Queries have arisen relating to the projected completion date of the projects on the first and fourth floors; both are expected to be completed in October, however, as of time of publication, building work

is on-going, leaving a large volume of chairs, desks and office equipment closed off with tape. “I have been told,” stated Comer, “that the works on both sites should be completed within the next few weeks”. Comer also went on to stress that the re-developments on the first floor, while being a place for informal study, will not be “a place for having your lunch or a coffee but, like I said, a place for students to study more informally which is an environment that many students favour.” Queries have been raised by students over the placement of pink slips upon desks around the James

Students protest against library lockouts and Sunday closures

News Writer

CD library renovations are due to be completed on the first and fourth floors in the coming weeks. A social learning space is to be created on Level 1 of the James Joyce Library. It will be available, according to the Official UCD Library website, for all users in October 2012. The space created will provide “wired spaces for laptop use, individual work spaces, and much needed group and collaborative workspaces for our users.” The fourth floor redevelopments involve book collections being compacted on Level 4. UCD Library states that this is to facilitate the

NEWS

Joyce library, which are taped to desks with an “X” on all slips; it is believed however that these desks are to be replaced by new desks. “The pinks slips indicate desks that are in some way damaged or have large amounts of graffiti on them, beyond cleaning, and these (with pinks slips) are to be replaced by new desks” according to Mr Comer. Upon inspection of such desks though, on Friday October 19th, very few of the many desks seemed to be damaged, or heavily marked.

out and showed their dissatisfaction. Students are here to study and here to learn, and they can’t do that without a library.” When asked whether the Students’ Union could organise a campaign in the future and whether it could attract higher numbers Comer replied: “of course it will have to be discussed at Exec and discussed at Council. In terms of larger numbers, I am pleased with the numbers that came out today. No disrespect to the organisers, but the union would have a wider range of communication for this event. I would be hopeful, but of course we can’t guarantee numbers. It could be smaller than this for all we know.”

#UCDLibrary

Debate finds in favour of abortion Matthew H. Farrelly News Writer

Find the College Tribune on: Facebook - facebook.com/collegetribune Twitter - twitter.com/collegetribune

ollowing a heated debate hosted by the Literary and Historical Society (L&H) on 17th October in the Newman building’s Theatre L, the House found in favour of the motion, “This House Would Legalize Abortion”. The proposition included members of Choice Ireland and UCD Pro Choice. Members of the Society for Protection of Unborn Children, Human Life International and a Legal adviser to the Pro-life Campaign, Caroline Simons, spoke for the opposition. The Debate, which was originally to be held in the Fitzgerald Chamber, was moved a day prior to accommodate what was expected to be a high turnout. Anticipation had been building running up to the debate following the use of controversial posters which sparked anger among some students. The posters represented a stick figure throwing a baby into a bin. A Facebook page was created in reaction, petitioning the removal of the posters, which had nearly 400 peo-

ple attending prior to the debate, however they remained in place with some being vandalised. Sinead Ahern of Choice Ireland addressed the issue of the posters in front of the House and its Auditor. “I was incredibly disappointed by the posters…These women are not some different breed, they are your fellow students…they are the people who walk among you every day and to trivialise they’re experience like that is not productive in my view, and while it is important to trigger debate, I feel we do need to have a think about whose lives that we’re trivialising when we’re doing that,” she stated. The arrival of the Marie Stopes clinic in Belfast has fueled the abortion debate on the island as a whole. Marie Stopes state on their website that the Belfast clinic provides, “Family planning and contraception, STI testing and treatment, HIV counselling, testing and referral, Medical termination of pregnancy up to nine weeks gestation, 24 hour information, advice and

ongoing support for all of our services.” Notably on their UK homepage they offer abortion services to both Northern Irish women and Irish women, which it states is part of their commitment to helping women to access a medical abortion service that “can be completed within a day if you are between six and nine weeks pregnant. This is for the fee of €440.” The UCD Pro Choice movement, founded in 2010, are according to their Facebook page “Campaigning for free and safe abortion in Ireland.” They aim to establish a pro choice society in an attempt “to raise issues on the archaic laws in Ireland with regards abortion and contraception and to promote pro choice activity in UCD.” The group is currently seeking society recognition, stating that they are part of a campaign “to combat the restrictions faced by progressive groups on campus.”

NEWS

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COLLEGE TRIBUNE

23rd October 2012

NEWS IN BRIEF THOMAS CULLEN USI to host public meetings on cost of college and Budget 2013 A series of meetings have been organised over the coming month by the Union of Students in Ireland on the topic of the cost of college. USI have invited different TDs, Senators and local Councillors to the meetings so they can state their views and answer questions on the subject of third level funding before budget 2013 is released. Smurfit business school named in top 100 list UCD’s Michael Smurfit Graduate Business School has been named 88th in the 2012 Financial Times Global Executive MBA Rankings. It is the only Irish institute that has made the rankings this year. The Dean of the school, Professor Ciarán Ó hÓgartaigh, stated that “We are once again delighted to stand as Ireland’s only entry among the top business schools in the world”. China’s Kellogg/Hong Kong UST Business School was ranked number 1 in the list.

UCD student gains national media attention on abortion issue Matthew H. Farrelly News Writer

uzanne Lee, a 23 year old UCD student from Belfast and campaigner for the pro-choice movement, has recently gained public attention due to her open discussions with the media about her personal experience with abortion. Lee, a member of the UCD Pro Choice Society and the Rally for Change movement, has been one of the most outspoken youths on the issue with interviews involving The London Independent and the BBC Program The Nolan Show, having raised the profile of the pro-choice activist. The College Tribune spoke to Ms Lee regarding her emerging prominence on the issue. Commenting on her experience Lee stated, “I had a really good experience with the doctor in UCD…before I decided anything I came in and told him I was pregnant and he said ‘congratulations’, and then he goes ‘oh wait, you haven’t made your mind up yet, that was entirely wrong of me to say’, he kept apologising to me about it and told me that UCD would support me whatever my de-

cision was and that I should come back to him and it’d be fine.” Lee spoke openly about how people have viewed her since she began to speak openly about her abortion. “I know there are going to be people that judge me,” she remarked, “and I don’t really care.” “No one really wants to touch the cases of ‘I didn’t want a child’. No one seems to want to touch that because, essentially, even prochoice people I find are still of the same mind set that some abortions are better than others. I find that a lot harder to deal with than someone who’s pro-life, who cuts out all abortions. Money should never have had to come into my decision. I think that’s a point a lot of people don’t make either. There are people who choose to have abortions, but if they choose to have them because they can’t afford to have a child, not because they don’t want a child, that’s still not choice realistically. So I think it is very difficult,” she commented. On the legality issues surrounding abortion, Lee said, “the question most people have to ask them-

Above: Suzanne Lee. Photo: Tyler McNally selves is, do they really think that a woman deserved life in prison for having an abortion? The majority of people will say no, and if no, well then surely that means we have to legislate for abortion on demand, because what else are you going to do? We’ll imprison them for a couple of years? We’ll fine them? They’re not really solutions. Whatever you think about abortion, no one deserves life in prison for that,

therefore legislation is the obvious step.” With the opening of the Marie Stopes abortion clinic in Belfast abortions are now available on the island of Ireland. Lee spoke of the potential demand it would put on the Irish government to legislate for abortion, “I would like to think that it would put pressure on the Irish government, but I’m not particularly hopeful…”

Student Capital Fund Have you a great idea for an event on campus? Why not try the Newman Fund for funding? The Newman Fund is a sum of money arising from that part of the Student Registration Charge which the university allocates to support organised student activities. It is designed to fund activities which are organised by individuals or groups, other than the recognised clubs and societies in the University, whose aim is to improve student life on campus. Any individual or group of students may apply for ﬁnancial support for their project. The Newman Fund is administered by a committee of the Student Consultative Forum. Last year the Fund supported: Seachtain na gaeilge An International Students’ Hustings An Irish University Entrepreneurship symposium A Handball tournament A concert by the Noughties Orchestra Applications are now invited for grants from the Fund for the current session. There is no standard format for applications but they should include full details of the applicants, the use to which any funds granted will be put and detailed costings. Applications for support in this session must be submitted by November 1st at 5.30pm to: Elizabeth Cronin, Student Consultative Forum, Student Centre, UCD or email to: Elizabeth.cronin@ucd.ie

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COLLEGE TRIBUNE

23rd October 2012

Decline in Arts Block activity and services

Cutbacks affect UCD Rachel Carey Writer

s with previous years, cutbacks have been enforced throughout UCD affecting both the staff and students of the university. The most notable victim of these cutbacks has been the library budget which has had a 5% cut, with the chance of further cuts throughout the year. Over the past few years the library finances are down 30% with the finances for staffing down 20%. Many changes have had to be made to the main library and other libraries around UCD to deal with cutbacks including the closing of several information desks in the James Joyce Library and the Health Sciences Library. The biggest and most concerning impact of these cutbacks has been the closing of the James Joyce Library on Sundays and the reduced opening hours during the summer months. Spokesperson for UCD Library, Rosalind Pan, told the College Tribune: “we have not been able to support Sunday opening at James Joyce Library in the first part of this semester because we cannot meet the staff costs that would be required for that.” Another area in which the library is being affected is in their ability to buy new books and sup-

NEWS

Thomas Cullen

Deputy News Editor

U port researchers in what has been called a “severe compression” of the budget specifically for resources. Pan stated that “we have been at various points in recent years, in a situation where we have not been able to buy any books at all”. The library plans to get the most out of their book budget by purchasing books based on user demand rather than advanced purchase and also introducing more eBooks to UCD’s libraries. It is not just the library that has been struggling with cutbacks; the various schools around UCD have also taken a serious blow to their budgets. The School of Politics has noticed a strain being put on its staff due to increased workload. Due to cutbacks, jobs which have been vacated due to retirement or

resignation have not been refilled. Although tutorial times have not been reduced, Head of School David Farrell told the College Tribune: “we’re just about hanging in there”. He also pointed out that cutbacks will not be going away and the likelihood is things will get very tough next year. Education officer Shane Comer himself views the cutbacks made to students teaching as unfair, saying, “The amount of teaching that would have taken place in a two hour tutorial slot is quite difficult to condense into one hour and the students’ learning experience suffers as a result of that.” He told the College Tribune that he is maintaining a constant dialogue with UCD regarding cutbacks.

CD Students’ Union Arts Convenor Declan Clear has voiced his disappointment at the level of services, facilities and events that are available in the Arts Block this year. Several concerns have been raised due to the lack of seating, guest speakers and events in the arts building with most being moved to the new student centre. Clear spoke to the College Tribune on the lack of activity, stating that “In the past we had the trap, the dramsoc theatre, and the society offices were in arts and there was always stuff happening…even the debates are getting hurt by moving down to the Garret Fitzgerald Chamber, and I think there are a lot of people sitting around in arts doing nothing. There is no buzz about the building anymore. There aren’t any guests. It’s quite disappointing in fact.” Despite endeavors to try and organise events such as tea mornings and the book appeal, the arts

TRIBUNE VOX POPULI

convenor has been finding these difficult to accomplish owing to restrictions placed on the Arts block by Building and Services. “I have wanted to do events such as the book appeal and tea mornings, but I have been prevented from doing most of the stuff I wanted to do this year because you are not even allowed to have a stand in arts anymore. No stands are allowed because of health and safety reasons. Myself and members of the arts block staff have been trying to remedy this recently, but as of yet we are at bit of a standstill with services. It’s for fire and safety reasons you can’t have stand in arts block,” said Clear. Clear also added that there was a severe lack of seating for students, stating that he had went around the Arts Block with two of his class reps and counted that there were only 245 seats available in the building, despite it being the biggest faculty in UCD.

Rumor in ambiguo est; alii alia dicunt; pars invenit utraque causas

Were you at the library protest? "No... I didn’t even know it was on.... I heard there was something happening, [the library] not open on Sundays." Lauren Cullen Psychology, 2nd year

"No..... I was too busy doing essays. I had two essays due at 3 o'clock and I was working like crazy. I was even unaware that it was even happening like, I didn’t know... is to reopen on Sundays or something?" Harry Moylan Politics and Sociology, 3rd year

"No, it’s about the Sunday been cut off is it............ Because I was getting lunch."

"I never heard about it.... well I saw people going around but didn’t know what they were doing."

Aine Ní Siochann, Science, 1st year.

Chloe Breen, Medicine, 1st year.

Think you have what it takes to be the next Vincent Browne? Join the College Tribune News Team. e-mail: news@collegetribune.ie

NEWS IN FOCUS

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COLLEGE TRIBUNE

23rd October 2012

Don’t mention the A-word

With the controversial opening of Northern Ireland's first abortion clinic reopening debate on the issue in the Republic, Darragh Ó Tuathail gives his thoughts on the cause célèbre

ook around: Germany has ‘don’t mention the war’, Harry Potter has ‘He who must not be named’ and we, the Irish, have ‘Don’t utter the “A-word”.’ It is a sad reality that, in the year 2012, it is illegal for women on this island to end their pregnancy. It is illegal for a woman to stop something growing in her own body and

Übermensch. Accusations such as this are incredibly offensive to the women and couples who make the incredibly difficult decision to end their pregnancy. The debate surrounding what stage of pregnancy is the beginning of life is controversial and incredibly difficult, with both sides putting valid arguments forward,

"Under Irish logic, rape victims should carry that child until it is born, because every life is precious, God cherishes all life and everyone is a part of God’s Plan." people do not seem to want to talk about it. If a woman is raped, it is accepted and common practice to offer all levels of care and support to the victim, but terminate the pregnancy? Oh no, no, no, there’s always adoption! Under Irish logic, rape victims should carry that child until it is born, because every life is precious, God cherishes all life and everyone is a part of God’s Plan. So answer me this, is misery a part of the Almighty’s Plan too? The issue of disability and abortion is incredibly difficult and could possibly be the most divisive topic in the whole issue. If a pregnant woman discovers that the baby she is carrying has severe disabilities and whose life will be spent on machines and in pain, should she not have the option to end the pregnancy? Or should the mother be forced to bring the child into the world, knowing the child will never have the opportunity to fully live and always be dependent upon machines? Opponents claim that the termination of a pregnancy due to a disability is plain wrong and under no circumstances should a pregnancy be terminated. Every life is precious and miracle, so everyone should have a chance at life. A number of extremist oppositionists claim that the termination of pregnancies owing to their disability is eugenics, and is reminiscent of Nazi Germany's quest for The

separating the fine line, many believe, between abortion and murder. Many, including people with religious beliefs, believe that life begins at the moment of conception and that surely anything growing

inside you must be considered life. While this seems like a valid point for life to begin -at the moment of conception- we are merely talking about two cells. Considering there are millions of cells in the human body, surely one cannot consider conception beginning of life? Many believe life truly begins from the moment of the beginning of brain function or when the foetus can survive independent from the mother. These are two of the most compelling arguments, brain function shows a level of awareness and human state, yet the ability to survive independent of the mother is more interesting. The ability of the foetus/baby to adequately provide all the core body functions needed to survive must be a clear sign of humanity. Despite all this, I am not in a position to state when an abortion is right or wrong, that is for you all to individually decide. Opponents of abortion do make up a sizeable chunk of the Irish Population and a large number of

them are part of the older generations, those who still feel a part of, and guided by, organized religion. Even though I consider myself to be agnostic, I respect everybody’s freedom and human right to believe in whatever they like and the safety to practice said belief. Religion can be a wonderful thing. The feeling of belonging and the idea of an after-life can be a comfort for many, as does the idea that a superior being is behind unexplainable events. However, religion should never play a role in government decisions and State affairs. A country built on religious values can be beneficial; national laws can be roughly based on moral values, such as the taking of life and treating everyone as equal. However, it is when these religious values restrict someone’s human rights or influence democratic process that the line of Church and State has been crossed. I feel I should admit that I was put up for adoption when I was born. A woman out there decided

that she would never be able to give this baby the life and opportunities it deserved and made the decision to put me up for adoption. Should this not make me Pro-Life and Pro-Adoption? Well, I am ProAdoption - it's a wonderful institution, one that gives couples which cannot naturally have children the opportunity to give a child in need a loving home. Did religion influence her decision? I may never know, but what I do know is that when faced with the crisis of an unplanned pregnancy, my birth mother chose what she felt was best and did not get the boat to England. She made the difficult decision to carry the baby to term and to painfully separate from her child. I can never imagine the strength this must have taken. In the end, she made a decision and used her basic human right to decide what would happen with her body. Countless women throughout the world never have this decision. Women should always have that choice. So do we face any progress in the next coming years? Politicians harp on about the Constitutional Convention and how abortion must be addressed. This Convention, composed of random citizens and politicians, will discuss and suggest changes to the Constitution that will suit a twenty-first century Ireland. After the infamous 1992 X-Case, The European Court of Human Rights insists that Ireland must enact laws around abortion or they are breaching basic Human Rights. The most likely outcome from the Constitutional Convention abortion debate is enacting a system for permitted abortion when the mother’s life is at risk. I do feel that if this is enacted, it would be an enormous step forward for Ireland, but it does go far enough? Allowing some level of abortion on this island will get the ball rolling and eventually we will have full access to treatment for women. It may take another generation, but it is decisions we face now as a people which will define us. Let’s finally take a step forward into the 21st Century.

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COLLEGE TRIBUNE 23rd October 2012

You got a friend in me Helen Lawless looks at the latest USI campaign, discovering what it really means to be an LGBT ally

ost of us consider ourselves in favour of increased rights and decreased discrimination towards the LGBT community. It is one of the few issues that does not just seem to be separated by an ideological dimension but also by a generational one, with young adults overall seeming to be in favour of standing by their friends as they campaign for equal respect as persons and equal legislative rights. As such, it is unsurprising that USI’s recent LGBT Ally campaign was generally greeted with warmth and enthusiasm, but it raises a slightly ambiguous question: what constitutes an ally? The generally accepted definition seems

things bandied about by so many, referring to some vague idea of being pro-LGBT equality. Although raising awareness and drawing attention to the area of LGBT rights in general is never a bad thing, the campaigns with the greatest levels of success are usually those with concrete aims and that demand something definite of those they are addressing. If people are willing to listen, then it is crucial something is said to that audience that goes beyond cheerleading. A wrist band is not enough to change the lot our friends face. We know this supportive base exists: UCD’s own LGBT society tried harder than ever before to extend membership to straight

“... the term ally does not mean: “I sympathise with you”, nor does it mean “I pity you”; it means “I will stand by you as you fight” to be a person who supports, respects and accepts members of the LGBT community without necessarily identifying as a member of that community themselves. The term was coined by American high schools in an attempt to combat the horrific phenomenon of homophobic and transphobic bullying, and has since been adopted into common use by LGBT movements internationally. It is in this very specific origin that we can identify the power and the significance of what it means to call one’s self an ally: the kid who witnessed such bullying and later criticised it, that kid is not an ally, however the kid who stepped up beside the victim of bullying, called his terroriser out or at the very least comforted the victim in the aftermath, they are an ally. The USI Ally campaign, although wellmeaning, seemed to lack this key educational focus; defining the term it was espousing. Ally is a catch word, a hash tag, one of those

students, in particular during this year’s fresher’s week, with record-breaking success -namely becoming the largest LGBT student society in the country. Deliberate efforts were made to re-brand the society towards being more inclusive, to operate as any other society does, welcoming anyone interested in with open arms and trying to enhance their student experience. Most societies have something in particular they are trying to promote, whether that’s a sport, art or political agenda, but for the most part they try and serve as a social circle for people to feel at home in. Each society has its own hurdles and misconceptions to overcome, but generally they succeed at bringing in all kinds of individuals from across campus by simply offering a more fun and involved time here at UCD. LGBT Soc has it harder than most. This is because there is an underlying awareness of the assumptions that may be made about

you if you are seen as standing up on certain issues, or if you are close with this group in particular. Lady Justice however is meant to be blind, and as such, blatant injustice is something we can all identify when we see it, even if we do not feel the harms directly. To assume people who are involved with LGBT campaigns are LGBT is the same reasoning that implies whites can’t see the ills of racism or that men can’t be feminists, and it is a logic that is fundamentally flawed. When I asked this year’s LGBT Soc auditor David Healy what message he most hoped to impart with his fresh new take on the society I think his answer says it all: “You don’t have to be LGBT to fight for LGBT rights”. Note the term ally does not mean “I sympathise with you”, nor does it mean “I pity you”; it means “I will stand by you as you fight”. It cannot be denied that our friends all face a monumental battle. They are this generation’s suffragettes, as they campaign to be treated with exactly the same rights as people who happen to be attracted to the opposite gender. Currently, society deems their relationships less valid, less committed, less meaningful -not worthy of the title of marriage, for instance. They are excluded and stigmatised in many environments, and patently stereotyped at every turn. They are defined solely and utterly by who they want to have relationships with, as though their feelings of love and devotion are somehow alien to a straight person’s. In short, they are being done a wrong which is ill-fitting to modern society and human compassion in general. Perhaps there is an onus on the young people of UCD who call themselves “allies” to put their money where their mouth is, to risk a few jokes at their expense in order to stand up for what they know to be right, but more importantly, to stand by their friends who, simply put, cannot do this alone.

FEATURES

Irish LGBT Beginnings 1829: 'Offences Against the Person

Act' outlaws male-to-male sexual intercourse. Punishable by death.

1885: Labouchere Amendment out-

lawed 'acts of gross indecency' or 'intimate acts' between men in both public and private.

1912: Criminal Law (Amendment) Act 1912 permits flogging to be used as an act of punishment against 'sexual offence' crimes

1980: Norris v. Attorney General High

Court case over Norris' argument that the law infringed on his right to privacy to have consensual sex with a man. High Court rules against Norris.

1983: Norris appeals his case to the

Supreme court who upheld the constitutionality of the law by a three to two verdict.

1988: Norris takes case to the Euro-

pean Court of Human Rights. The Court strike down the law criminalising male-to-male sex on the grounds of privacy.

1988: Regulations regarding sexual

orientation in the Irish Civil Service prohibit employment discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation or if a person was HIV positive.

1993: Criminal Law (Sexual Offences)

Act decriminalises acts of maleto-male sex.

FEATURES

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COLLEGE TRIBUNE 23rd October 2012

VIS-À-VIS: Rachel Breslin James Grannell gets to know UCD SU President Rachel Breslin, discussing everything from reports to rugby as he shadows her during a typical day's work

he side door of the SU corridor opens. It’s 10am on the dot and Rachel Breslin appears before me carrying several bags. Today is the day that I aim to find out what the president of UCDSU does on an average day and what drives her to do it. In her office, she works on a rather dated Dell computer that seems to have a more than dodgy internet connection. The office is bestrewn with documents, a copy of the latest College Tribune, a strange glass trophy and a pink care bear that seems to survey the room from its vantage point before a poster of inspirational quotations. It’s all rather less glamorous than you might think. The life of the president seems a strangely lonely one. As you sit in her office listening to the conversations going on outside the door you can’t help but feel slightly detached from the rest of campus. “You definitely lose friends because you don’t see them as much and you can’t and that’s a really horrible part of it,” comments Breslin. “I do enjoy being president. Not everyday, but overall, like some of the difficulties that you have and the worries and stress that you’re under are worth it. I know that I’ll never have an opportunity like this again in my whole life.” She holds a slightly muttered dialogue to herself as she works. I wonder if it’s for my benefit as I sit typing my observations. Looming deadlines for e-mails, reports and the various other activities that she constantly checks on her calendar seem to cry out demanding her attention. “I have to work to my schedule,” comments Breslin. “You do live it for the year, but there are loads of laughs as well. It’s certainly a lot of time, like; you don’t really get time for anything else… I think that’s why I play tag every Wednesday -that routine- I know that I’m not going to be working then and I try to set aside time at weekends and stuff, but I haven’t been home since I started the job.” Although many see the SU as a breeding ground for future politicians, Breslin says that this is not the path for her: “I think this year particularly has just taught me that it’s

not for me. I feel kind of liberated by that, because it means that I’m not worried about anything I do this year being something that’ll come back on me in the future… there are moments of realisation that I’ve had throughout the year where the personal toll of being in a political position has been so not worth it that it has completely put me off that whole sphere.” Sitting in her office while various people ring and call in looking for things, I consider how this former Welfare Officer feels about the weight that lies on her shoulders. “I was happiest in college when I was in the welfare crew, because I loved the bond that I had with other people when we were volunteering whereas when you’re getting paid…in terms of expectations people have, and that no matter how hard you work it’s always falls under those expectations, because you’re getting paid.” As she prepares for the first council I begin to get some notion of the pressure involved in representing so many students with such different views. She seems to feel that difficulty intensely. “Different students want different things…you have to make sure that you are representing a majority of students and not just the most vocal minority, as can happen a lot in student politics, it’s the vocal minority who get heard,” she says. She speaks rather candidly about the difficulty of balancing the demands of students with what the university are willing allow. “It’s very difficult, because you’re constantly, almost daily, faced with these questions of ‘students want this’, ‘college want or have this’ and thinking who’s right in this scenario, like, how much is too much to expect. That’s definitely a really difficult part of the role… what is genuinely unfeasible or what is something that seems unfeasible, but is actually very possible. In the past the Students’ Union have achieved things that everybody thought was unfeasible, but if you try to achieve something that genuinely is unfeasible then you look silly to both the students and the college. You’re constantly trying to do this, but I’ve only been in the job for four months and before that I was in welfare and

Photo: Philip Enwright before that I was just a student and you’re dealing with people in the college who’ve been there twenty, thirty, years and have seen thirty past presidents…I think there’s this kind of way that they’re sussing us out and our team out as much as the students are. It’s a fine line between being a pushover and being really aggressive and overly aggressive and ruining your relationship with the college and not getting anything done.” “Continuity is a huge problem,” she continues. “That’s why we’re trying to get a general manager who we know will be here for five, ten years who’s someone that can go back and say well five years ago you did promise this. It’s a massive problem, I frequently go into meetings and am told, ‘but X president or X officer agreed to this’ and that’s something that is actually very difficult to come back on, because you can’t say ‘well I’m a different person’ because then they’re going to say, ‘well in two years time there’ll be another different person’. It’s something we really struggle with –continuity- and that’s why mandates are important from council so that everyone knows where the SU stands…if I have a bad relationship with someone in the college that’s going to pass onto my predecessor and they won’t like the SU, and that can happen.” When she finally finishes what needs to be done for Council, she begins to prepare for the L&H debate on the worthlessness of a degree in which she is taking part. Scribbling down notes on a whiteboard while listening to Aaron Sorkin’s commencement speech on Youtube for inspiration, she readies herself

just in time to get to the Fitzgerald chamber. Some have commented that Breslin has a cold aloof manner. When I ask her about this she seems acutely aware that certain people might have this perception. “I think I can come across as quite cold, but I think that’s just a defensive thing that I picked up in college because I didn’t know anyone at the start. It’s also a thing where, like, huge numbers of people around the SU know me for this year and I know that so many of them, because I’ve seen it happen to people, just drop off the face of the earth next year and don’t want to be your friend. So I’m hugely sceptical of some of the interactions that I have…it’s a horrible feeling, and I really worry about coming across as cold, because I hate doing that and I’m not... You’re constantly worried about saying the wrong thing or, and to be honest at the back of my mind at all times, even right now I have ‘I should be doing this, I should be doing this, I should be doing this’ that’s why I come across as cold because I know that these same people who are talking to me are going to question me if I haven’t got something done.” Following the debate her work for the day is over. It’s past 9pm and she seems suddenly more light-hearted and jovial. She leaves the Student Centre to head to her tag rugby match. “I love it,” she comments, “because it’s so amateur; there’s nobody you’re intimidated by at tag and my team are really nice and none of them are in the SU. So it’s amazing to have a completely different group of people.” Her team won 27-0.

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COLLEGE TRIBUNE 23rd October 2012

FEATURES

Presidential Election 2012: Behind The Veil Darragh Morriarty searches through the song and dance of US politics

n case you did not know, an election of sorts is looming across the water (no not that way, the other way!) In the coming weeks, the coverage of the election will only intensify as the candidates fight for every undecided vote. From the perspective of an outsider looking in, the American political system creates the impression of being rather complicated. Congress, made up of the House of Representatives and the Senate, is one part of the system; the President is a separate part. The intention when this relationship was formulated was a distinct distance and difference from European counterparts. The system under which they operate is said to provide checks and balances that ensure only the best decisions for the country are made. The President can veto a bill accepted through Congress, and must gain the support of this body when proposing a bill. But what happens when a Democrat rules the White House and Republicans run congress? In theory, the legislation passed should be of even greater benefit to all Americans as you have both sides of the political spectrum pulling for their stances on policies. In practice things work differently. Some motions or initiatives may have the proverbial pin stuck in them and won’t actually become laws until one party controlling Congress and the Presidency can put their own spin on them. It's ostensibly a complicated system, and that’s without getting deep into the nitty-gritty things. Obama and Romney have being publicly sparring over the past year, and now, with the debates and such like occurring, the race for the White House is heating up. The smearing and slandering that goes on is childish and distasteful but, apparently, that’s politics. Both candidates conform to the status quo of Democrat/Republican rivalries and their stances on policies can almost be guessed. Obama wants the ‘richer folk’, as he puts it, to pay more tax. He doesn’t just say that though, he has to ‘Obamanize’ it by asking Americans that have done well as a result of the services etc. provided by the state to give back to the ones who ‘aren’t having such a good time’ right now. Romney, on the other hand, says he’s going to cut everybody’s tax, including the 47% of Americans he all but dismissed by claiming that ‘they see themselves as victims’ and that ‘they’ll vote for Obama no matter what.’ Yes, it's not a typo: cut, not increase tax. He proposes to cut tax while at the same time reducing the reductions granted to all Americans but particularly aimed towards the top earners. Due to ‘basic arithmetic and math’, Obama says this will not work and that the result will be Americans becoming penalised. Obama meanwhile seems to spend more time criticising Romney than focusing on his own policies. The easiest thing to do for an undecided voter would be to stick with and vote for the current president. He’s charismatic, talks well and also oversaw ‘the removal’ of bin Laden from the face of the earth - not the capture, or the imprisonment, but the murder of the man. In the ‘US of A’, where liberty and justice for all is the basis of their foundation as a country, this doesn’t wash. Bin Laden, as nasty a bloke he appeared to be, should still have been considered innocent until proven guilty. Under the Bush regime, such figure heads of terrorist groups were brought to Guantanamo for information to be extract-

ed from them, one way or another. ‘Torture circuits’ also existed, whereby a person was flown around the world and as the name suggests tortured until they gave up information. This, however wrong you may consider it, enabled the US to stop potential terrorist attacks at source before they had a chance to occur, whereas Obama drops bombs with his Drones in a general area where a ‘baddie’ is suspected to be. These Drones, by the way, are planes that are flown not by a pilot but a

controller under the command of some spotty teenager that is exceptionally trained in the field of Modern Warfare or Black Ops or even ‘Flight Simulator’ (I exaggerate slightly). These Drones are a dangerous invention as they remove the risk of human casualties for the attacking side which may lead to bombs being dropped that otherwise would not be. Romney on the other hand is rich, and the easiest thing to do would be to dislike him because of that. He is also prone to the odd gaffe

here and there - the 47% debacle for example, or his ‘binders full of women’. Romney, not a devout politician his whole life, claims to be offering a new perspective for the American people. Similar to our own Enda, he’s adopted a five-point plan throughout his campaign that will lead America back to the ‘top of all the charts’. What exact charts he is referring to is unclear. Throughout his five-point plan Romney covers all topics and seems better prepared than Obama. In their first debate Romney was a clear winner with Obama’s best moments being his opening and closing statements. The second debate however was won with relative ease by Obama as he aggressively tore Romney’s plans limb from limb. The likelihood is that Obama will talk his way to a second term in office, his wellpaid speech writers will write and Obama will deliver these speeches as only he does. Who’s going to win? Does it even matter? I ask this because the facts say that the person with the biggest campaign budget usually ends up the victor. Where does this budget come from? Well, people give them money. Why do people give these candidates money? They give it to seek a return on their investment like any other business person. Backs get scratched all over America around election time. Every election campaign needs funding indeed, but the sheer power of the US President not only domestically, but internationally, is a rare commodity. Elites that employ millions and millions of voters are in effect able to hold the President along with the rest of the government to ransom, in order to see that bills which benefit them are passed. Last year the state of Ohio proposed a law that would see businesses that defraud the state penalised quicker so that monies owed could be retrieved as quick as possible. The American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC) didn’t particularly agree with this and the law wasn’t passed. Sounds pretty normal? ALEC is a lobbying body that “works to advance the fundamental principles of free-market enterprise, limited government, and federalism at the state level through a nonpartisan public-private partnership of America’s state legislators, members of the private sector and the general public.” The bill wasn’t passed until it was reworked to satisfy some of their concerns. This made it one of many bills influenced by the group, predominantly made up of Republican legislators as well as corporate businesses such as Walmart and Coca-Cola. Due to controversy surrounding the death of an innocent teenager where the alleged murderer was initially not arrested because of a self-defence act supported by ALEC, Coca-Cola subsequently withdrew their membership from the organization. The bills endorsed and supported by ALEC tend to advance a pro-business agenda. About 17% of bills proposed by ALEC are passed. This leads to political commentators concluding that if bodies such as this as this exist, soon the independent role of the President will diminish significantly. Entities such as ALEC, and there are others like it, make democracy pointless. They appearance of democracy is perpetuated nowhere as it is in the US presidential election, where the performance is supercharged to enrich a smokescreen and to retain the status quo, and illusion of democracy, until it’s four years later, and time to do it all again.

10 SCIENCE

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COLLEGE TRIBUNE 23rd October 2012

The journey to the great beyond As Felix Baumgartner receives applause for breaking the sound barrier without the assistance of an aircraft, Christopher Ahearne examines the wider implications of the feat.

hen Felix Baumgartner was five years old he drew a picture for his mother at school. The picture depicted Baumgartner parachuting beside a smiling sun while his whole family watched on from below. Last Sunday Baumgartner realised his childhood dream, when, floating 39 kilometres above the earth in a helium balloon, he saluted and jumped. He hurtled through the stratosphere reaching speeds of up to 725mph, becoming the first man to break the sound barrier without an aircraft. The 10 minute jump was terrifying, especially when, as approaching the speed of sound, Baumgartner began to spin out of control. It was the danger most feared before the leap by everyone in the know. In the stratosphere there is no air resistance, so no way for Baumgartner to control how his body would be orientated -no way for him to correct the spin. If he failed to drag it under control fast enough, he would probably pass out from G forces. However at one minute thirty into the jump, there was a cheer at Stratos mission control as Felix regained control and began to descend in a controlled dive. By the time he reached the ground he had broken three world records with 8 million people watching. While it was an amazing achievement, Baumgartner’s jump had more significance than simply breaking records. The medical officer for Baumgartner was Jonathan Clark, husband to Laurel Clark -an astronaut who died when the space shuttle Columbia broke up during re-entry into the

earth’s atmosphere in 2003. The success of Baumgartner’s jump opens up the possibility that astronauts will be able to eject from shuttles in the future if there is an emergency upon re-entry. This is a great step in an effort to improve astronaut safety but sadly it has come too late, and will not be used by NASA in the foreseeable future as, since the retirement of the shuttle program, NASA has no current initiative to launch humans into space. Recently this point has received much me-

“While it was an amazing achievement, Baumgartner’s jump had more significance than simply breaking records.” dia coverage due to the presence of the shuttles arriving at museums around the United States. The shuttle Endeavour will be arriving to its final resting place in California after a lifetime of service which included 25 missions and 299 days in space. Both the shuttle Discovery and Endeavour took victory laps in the USA, flying over cities attached to the back of 747s. Huge Crowds gathered to say goodbye to the shuttles which had brought

excitement and inspiration to people world round. However it was quite a sad sight, with Neil DeGrasse Tyson, the famed astrophysicist tweeting “As retired shuttles majestically grace our cityscapes, we shed a silent tear, not for the end of an era but the absence of a new one”. Tyson is not wrong. NASA have stopped all programs which include the launching of manned rockets and have until recently been funding Russia to keep the International Space Station supplied with resources and staff. However, NASA’s lack of adventure has long preceded this end to manned spaceflight. Since the end of the Apollo missions, human space exploration has come to somewhat of a stall. While admittedly 450 humans have made it to space since, all of these mission have been within a small distance of the earth. None have dared to match the bravery of the Apollo missions to the moon. This is likely to remain the case for the foreseeable future. When NASA was in the middle of the development of the Apollo program in the 1960’s, its budget accounted for nearly 4% of the total US budget. With the modern economic climate as it is, no government is willing to provide that kind of funding for such risky programs. As Sir Martin Rees, the astronomer royal of England outlined in a recent article, “Future expeditions to the moon and beyond will only be politically and financially viable if they are cut-price ventures, spearheaded by individuals with the right stuff of the Apollo astronauts, prepared to accept high risks – perhaps even ‘one-way tickets’ - They may be privately-funded adventurers.” The presence of private firms in space has been an ever-more likely future for human exploration. This month saw one of the most important launches from Cape Canaveral since the retirement NASA’s shuttle program. The launch, destined for the International Space Station, marks the first time an American private sector firm have been used to resupply the space station. The CEO of the firm behind the launch, Elon Musk, has designed a range of reusable rockets to transport to lower earth orbit. Musk, however, says he also wants to take the next step. In a recent interview with the Wall Street Journal he claimed it possible that he could put a man on mars within ten years. While some may argue the likelihood of such a proposal, it is an exciting thought to hear from the company which is now leading the way in human space exploration.

Space Exploration Milestones 1957: Soviet Union launches Sputnik I. One month later Sputnik II is launched with Laika the dog on board

1958: US launch Explorer I. Nasa is

formed after the passing of the National Aeronautics Space Act

1961: Cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin

becomes first human to enter space and return safely. John F. Kennedy announces goal of sending astronauts to the moon before the end of the decade.

1969: Launch of Apollo 11. Armstrong and Aldrin become the first men to walk on the moon

1988: First piece of the International Space Station is launched

2004: Spirit and Opportunity arrive

on the surface of Mars. SpaceShipOne becomes the first privately built craft to reach outer space

2005: First Landing on another

world's moon. Huygens probe reveals the beach like region below the cloud-shrouded surface of Titan

2007: First stage of China's lunar

probe program, the satellite Chang'e I

2009: Kepler Mission is launched,

first space telescope designated to search for Earth-like exoplanet

2011: Radio orbital observatory,

the largest observatory ever is launched.

2012: Nuclear-powered NASA rover

successfully lands on Mars to seek out life clues. Baumgartner sets the altitude record for a manned balloon flight, parachute jump from the highest altitude, and greatest free fall velocity.

11 Poetry

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COLLEGE TRIBUNE

23rd October 2012

Page 11

Page Eleven Poetry Guts

Mature

Musings of a Love-Drunk Fool

Fuck high drop curbstones and onrushing traffic, and time lapsing lights and darkening skies.

Old face, New shoes, Subterranean Homesick Blues, You listen through a bramble of headphones on the 46A

The aftermath of any kind of romantic attachment, reciprocated or otherwise, is awfully similar to a hangover:

Fuck furious drivers and speed and time, and dead end straight streets and sweating necks tied.

First day Of second chance, Not this nervous since a Valentine dance, The fear threatens to derail you

Fuck unmentioned wells and ungripping hands and danced unromantic well thought out words

Bus stops, Heart doesn’t

Fuck georgian buildings and double-glazed windows and beautiful girls, and dust unquaking. Fuck cold hands aching and souls lost searching, and crying, not feeling but crying.

New shoes, Old grace, Dusty glasses, Briefcase, Diarmuid Moone, 38, First year Arts student, Never too late - RG

Fuck forgotten moments and haunting frames, and well preserved falsehoods and being alone. Fuck drunken labouring and sad street fights and no shattered bones and no broken organ

King Django

And the wheels they will spin on, an how long, and forever - NJ

- F.B

Watching the wheels of all us turning, down and not, and all us hoping, along the path and drifting stream vicious clouds of all that brings and all that doesn’t see.

of course the severity varies. But just like a hangover, in your lowest moments you swear never ever to fall in love again. Perhaps you’re not lying face down on the bathroom floor, relishing the cool sensation of the tiles on your cheek, muttering to yourself; promising every deity you can think of that you will never, ever, ever again so much as sip a wine spritzer (never mind drink an entire shoulder of vodka...) But you look back on your love-drunk self and know that this time you’ve learned your lesson.

“Django’s late”, she said, Though he’s been late for years, I crossed her arms, while in tears, Because I felt our love was dead — Such germ of abortion, but I was glad, Sipping images of a Kubrickian sad Flick, tricked into a cinematic guise, Hyperflowing into a river, silent and wise. “I’ve seen this somewhere else” She whispered in my ear, and I nodded, Whilst this celluloid clicked and whistled. Her legs were wrapped around a blanket A blanket was wrapped around her legs. I held them both to postpone an educated death. Django never showed up, he never did, oh no! So why wait, anyway, for his sleep-like essence? We undress as if to tether our more than mortal presence.

Fuck colourless punches and worn down guts and being afraid, and unbelieving.

There’s the nausea, the crippling embarrassment, the pleas for death...

Invariably, next Saturday night brings a round of pints at the pub and suddenly you’re back on the bathroom floor, cursing your stupidity. We will never stop drinking. We will never stop falling in love. Because however high the pay-off, however big the risk, however hellish the hangover, before the crash; it just feels too damn good. - AH

Streets Crowded streets Empty faces Only one Yours - NM

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BUSINESS

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COLLEGE TRIBUNE 23rd October 2012

The tale of two measures Niall Conroy

o how is the economy performing these days? You could be forgiven for thinking that the economy is just bumping along the bottom. Things are getting no better and no worse, right? Well it depends how you measure it. When assessing national income (which probably is not a perfect measure of economic performance or welfare) there are two measures: GDP (gross domestic product) and GNP (Gross National Product). Both attempt to capture the activity in the economy. GDP simply takes all the goods and services produced in the country. GNP also does this but it adjusts for repatriated profits e.g say Google makes €20m in Ireland and sends that back to HQ in USA, then output has been overstated as this money may have been earned in Ireland it is not staying in Ireland. Conversely Irish companies make money abroad and send it back here so that contributes posi-

tively to GNP. Most (but certainly not all) believe that GNP is a better measure as it reflects the domestic activity more accurately. For most

countries there is little difference between the two, but as always, Ireland is a little strange. GDP is about 25% bigger than GNP at the moment. Now you’re probably think-

ing this is unnecessary technical detail, but looking at the growth rates for the 2 measures is quite revealing. Last year Irish GDP grew by 1%, not too bad given the challenging environment we inhabit (Eurozone in constant limbo and sluggish US growth), not enough to make any real inroads on the unemployment problem but at least we are moving in the right direction. GNP on the other hand contracted by a whopping 7%. Pretty woeful stuff, particularly as it is a better measure of what is going on domestically. The reason for the huge gap is well known, we have two distinct economies: the export/multinational sector and we have the domestically traded sector. Exports are doing quite nicely while the domestic sector is dropping like a stone. Much of this can be traced back to the private debt overhang on Irish citizens (this was estimated at 124% of GDP by McKinsey consultancy in middle 2011). While this remains, so will our two speed economy.

The US mortgage comeback? Eoin Callaghan

he spectacular 2008 bust in the US housing market was the first economic domino which sparked a series of crises creating the recent Great Recession. A property bubble which was driven by huge volumes of sub-prime lending induced major financial institutions to leverage multiples of their balance sheets in order to take on more exposure to US mortgages, locking-in highly inflated returns. The bursting of this bubble uncovered huge fundamental risk levels in the banks as they became the ultimate bearers of obscene realised losses. This in turn led to a severe credit crunch; cutting liquidity lines to businesses, slashing general confidence and inducing large numbers of job losses. Paradoxically, the US mortgage market is fast becoming a core element of America’s economic recovery. Last week, the National Association of Realtors announced that existing home sales increased by 11% in September, at levels 43% higher than a year ago. NAR Chief Economist, Laurence Yun, commented on a shrinking housing supply which is “supporting ongoing price growth”. The decline in supply of existing homes can be attributed to lower levels of foreclosed properties for sale, as investors have been snapping up these distressed assets at prices 20% below market values. Distressed sales accounted for only 24% of market transactions in September, compared to about a third in the previous months. Banks are also making more aggres-

sive loan modifications for troubled borrowers, with Bank of America reducing the principal on 30,000 loans in the last 5 months. Negative equity is still preventing many homeowners from placing their properties on the market, creating a fundamental supply problem. This is due to the fact that the sale proceeds will not cover the value of the mortgage they took out when the property was bought at an inflated bubble price. Homeowners facing negative equity will eventually have to bear this loss but while the economy remains fragile, people are waiting for a clear signal that a sustained recovery lies ahead. Once a floor of confidence is established we can expect to see more existing homes up for sale as owners facing negative equity can afford to take the capital loss. In the meantime, Laurence Yun called on the construction industry to ramp up newhome builds in order to offset the shortening supply of existing homes – which already seems to be happening. The US Commerce Department last week announced that housing starts (new-home builds) were up 15% month-on-month in September, compared to an estimated 2.7% increase. This equates to a 43% increase on this time last year, the highest levels since 2008. This certainly has contributed to the fall in jobless figures recently, as economists estimate that each new-home build creates 3 new jobs. Over the last year, however, we have seen an increase in new-

home stocks as first-time buyers (the main market for new-homes) still face tight credit conditions. Alongside the housing figures released last week came results from many of America’s top banks. J.P. Morgan, the largest by assets, and Wells Fargo, the largest by mortgage issuances, both recorded strong profits on the back of an increase in mortgage market activity. The Fed have kept interest rates at record low levels which has induced many

home-owners to refinance. This upturn in the mortgage market can only give a shortterm boost, as low interest rates eat into the banks’ profits. We also know that economic growth should not be predicated on a booming property market. Every little helps however; as factory output remains sluggish and confidence is hampered by the EU debt crisis, the American economy is sure to get a boost from a mortgage market recovery.

14 GNÉ - AILT

gaelige@collegetribune.ie

COLLEGE TRIBUNE 23rd October 2012

Cad atá i ndán don rothaíocht ghairmiúil? Cathal Mac Dhaibhéid Scríbhneoir

e réir dealraimh, bhí an dópáil lárnach i bhfoireann US Postal Service (foireann rothaíochta Mheiriceá) riamh anall. Ní foláir a rá áfach gur mhéadaigh mí-úsáid drugaí neamhdhleathacha as éadan i measc bhaill na foirne le teacht chun cinn Lance Armstrong sa bhliain 1998. Ar ndóigh, tháinig sceithirí éagsúla chun solais le scéalta faoi chaimiléireacht Armstrong. Tugadh bodhaire Uí Laoire dóibh ar dtús. Ba laoch é Armstrong, fear a fuair an lámh in uachtar ar an ailse uiríoch; fear a bhuaigh Tour de France seacht n-uaire as a chéile; fear a bhunaigh Livestrong, an carthanas ailse; fear díograiseach dúthrachtach a bhí mar íocón spóirt ar fud na cruinne. Bhí barraíocht measa againn air - ní hé nár chreid muid na scéalta a tharraing drochcháil air, díreach ní raibh muid ag iarraidh iad a chreidbheáil. Sa bhliain 2003 ámh, foilsíodh ‘LA Confidentiel: Les Secrets de Lance Armstrong’ – leabhar a nocht an fhírinne faoi dhópáil Armstrong agus foireann US Postal Service. An bhliain dár gcionn, thacaigh an Sunday Times leis an tuairim go raibh Armstrong ina fhalcaire drugaí. Shéan Armstrong na líomhaintí go láidir i dtólamh. Íospartach géarleanúna ab ea é, dar leis. Sa bhliain 2004, chuir sé an dlí ar rannpháirtithe an leabhair úd, mar aon leis An Sunday Times. Cuireadh líomhaintí nua i leith Armstrong i mbliana. Dar

le USADA (Údarás Frithdhópála Mheiriceá), d’eagraigh Armstrong agus a chomhrothaithe ar fhoireann US Postal Service scéim ghairmiúil chaimiléireachta. Bhí tuairisc chuimsitheach ullmhaithe ag USADA, míle leathanach ar an iomlán, le taifid leighis, anailís bhithcheimiceach, mionnscríbhinní ó iar-rothaithe na foirne agus rothaithe eile, chomh maith le comhfhreagras ríomhphoist idir Armstrong agus an dochtúir conspóideach, Michele Ferrari. Dar leis an tuairisc, bhain Armstrong úsáid rialta as eiritreapóéisin agus téististéarón (drugaí neamhdhleathacha a chuireann leis an bhfeidhmiú) a d’aimsigh sé ón Dr. Ferrari idir 1999 agus 2005. Chuir sé dallamullóg ar na húdaráis dópála ar feadh na mblianta - chuirfeadh sé smideadh ar a ghéaga chun rianta na n-instealltaí a chur faoi cheilt, agus nuair a bheadh tástálacha drugaí ar siúl, chuirfeadh sé fuilaistriú i gcrích. Thug an tuairisc le fios nach raibh i réalta mhór na rothaíochta ach andúileach drugaí agus, níos measa fós, gur stiúir sé an tréad dópála chothaigh agus chaomhnaigh sé cultúr na caimiléireachta i measc rothaithe US Postal Service. Mar gheall ar fhianaise do-shéanta an USADA, tá smál lofa fágtha ar oidhreacht an rothaí is cáiliúla riamh agus ní mór an cheist a chur: caidé atá i ndán don rothaíocht? An mbeidh an spórt ábalta bogadh ar aghaidh ón chaibidil dhorcha seo? Cosúil le go leor spórt eile,

Aisling Sheerin Scríbhneoir

fadhb fhorleathan ‘sí dópáil don rothaíocht. Astu siúd a bhuaigh an Tour de France idir 1996 agus 2010 cuir i gcás, níl ach rothaí amháin ina measc nár theip air riamh i dtástáil drugaí. Tá na táirgí féin ag éirí níos fearr agus níos sofaisticiúla i rith an ama, agus in ainneoin na n-impleachtaí a bhain le caimiléireacht Armstrong, tá rothaithe ann a dhéanfadh amhlaidh - beidh daoine i gcónaí sásta dul sa tseans má chinntíonn drugaí rath, clú nó cáil. Thar aon ní eile, léirigh cás Armstrong go bhfuil lúb ar lár i rialú frithdhópála mar atá. Le cabhair Ferrari, bhí Armstrong i gcónaí céim chun tosaigh ar theicnící frithdhópála. Ní mór mar sin d’údaráis cosúil le USADA agus WADA (Údarás Frithdhópála na

Cruinne) tástálacha randamacha ní ba dhoichte a fhorbairt. Ar ámharaí an tsaoil, tá an chuma ar an scéal go mbeidh ré nua ag an rothaíocht ghairmiúil amach anseo le teacht chun cinn rothaithe "glana" le seasamh bródúil frithdhópála, macasamhail Bradley Wiggins, Tejay Van Garderen agus Taylor Phinney. Maidir le Armstrong féin, mar mharthanóir ailse, beidh sé i gcónaí mar fhoinse inspioráide do na milliún duine atá ag dul i ngleic le dúshláin an ghalair, ach, más mian leis aon phioc dá oidhreacht a shlánú, tá sé thar am dó leithscéal a ghabháil leo siúd a chreid ann, a cheannaigh a leabhair agus a thacaigh le Livestrong.

Scríbhneoir

s deacair an boladh aoibhinn úd a bhíonn i siopa leabhar a bhualadh. Níl ach rud amháin is deise liom ná é, cumhrán álainn an tsiopa leabhar athláimhe. Is leabharbhách nó bibliophile le fada fíorach an lá mé. Is iomaí uair, lá is seachtain atá caite agam i dtimpeallacht chluthar na siopaí leabhar, Waterstones na sócúlachta agus na fairsinge leabhar den chuid ba mhó. Mo athair a thugadh ann mé, leis an lá a chaitheamh i measc na leabhar is mé ar mo shuaimhneas ag léamh liom is ag piocadh leabhar. Chuireas tréimhse phromhaidh na leabharlann isteach go maith roimhe sin. Tá an dúil chraosach sna leabhair agam fós. Is breá liom tráthnónta a chaitheamh ag spaisteoireacht i siopaí leabhar. Siopaí leabhar athláimhe ach go háirithe, nó cinn a bhfuil réimse mhaith leabhar acu i nGaeilge. Cathair í Baile Átha Cliath atá ar maos leis an litríocht, fiú mura mbeadh á áireamh ach saothar Joyce. Is maith mar sin go bhfuil

an oiread sin de shiopaí a dhíolann an focal clóite ar chrainn mharbha mar a dúirt an té a dúirt. Seo roinnt de na siopaí leabhar a thugaim taitneamh ar leith dóibh. Ceann de sheoda na cathrach, dar liom, is ea Cathach Books, siopa leabhar atá tearc, seanda agus anchostasach. Is minic acu céad eagráin de Ulysses ar €30,000 an ceann. Tá réimse fhairsing leabhar a bhaineann leis an Éireannachas; stair, polaitíocht, litríocht, is cuid mhór acu sínithe ag a n-údair. Tá rannóg Ghaeilge acu is rannóg leathphraghas thíos staighre áit ar féidir leabhar athláimhe a cheannach cuid mhaith níos saoire ná nuaeagráin. Ba le fear de bhunadh Ghleannn Cholmcille, Éanna Mac Cuinneagáin, an siopa go dtí gur shéalaigh sé tamall de bhlianta ó shin, agus is a chlann atá ina bhun anois. Tá roinnt mhaith ar fáil i gceantar Bharra an Teampaill, leis. Tá siopa leabhar Connolly Books ann, an siopa leabhar cumannach; cúrsaí polaitíochta an chloch is mó ar a bpaidrín siúd, is roinnt leabhar athláimhe is Gaeilge acu chomh

á Caife agus Comhrá ar bun arís ag a dó gach Céadaoin sa Seomra Caidrimh (Áras Newman, seomra B207). Seo an chaoi is fearr chun casadh le daoine eile le suim sa Ghaeilge ar champas. Bíonn brioscaí agus banter i gcónaí ann! Beidh Seó Faisin ag an gCumann in éineacht le FadSoc agus UCD ENTS i mbliana i rith Sheachtain na Gaeilge. Má tá suim ag éinne a bheith mar mhainicín nó a bheith ar an gCriú, seol r-phost chugainn ar: AnSeoFaisin@gmail.com. Beidh na héisteachtaí ar siúl ar an 7ú agus 8ú Samhain ó 11-4 sa Halla Astra. Beidh Tráth na gCeist san Atrium ar an gCéadaoin seo chugainn ag a seacht san iarnóin. Mar gheall go mbeidh mic léinn ón Scéim Chónaithe Ollscoil Ghlaschú ag teacht ar cuairt, beidh an Tráth na gCeist dátheangach (i nGaeilge agus nGàidhlig na hAlban). Beidh spotdhuaiseanna ar an oíche freisin, oíche shuimúil a bheidh ann! Chomh maith le sin, beidh comórtas FIFA ar an 30ú Deireadh Fómhair san Atrium ó 6in – 9in. Beidh ticéid ar fáil an tseachtain seo chugainn don Oireachtas i Leitir Ceannain. Beidh mála codlata de dhíth oraibh! Tá lear mór daoine ar bís agus ag tnúth go mór leis. Bíodh faitíos oraibh roimh Oíche Shamhna, seans nach mairfidh sibh!

Taighde ar an nGaeilge

Baile na Leabhar: Radharc ar an gCathair Eoin P. Ó Murchú

Nuacht ón gCumann

maith. Ar na deirí seachtaine bíonn margadh na cearnóige ann i lár an Bharra áit a mbíonn leabhair ar díol ag stainníní. Thall, tá siopa carthanachta ar Shráid na Parlaiminte a bhíonn ag cur thar maoil le leabhair dheasa. Tá Hodges Figgis breá mór agus is beag leabhar nach bhfuil acu! Pluais Aladdin eile is ea Siopa Rúnda na Leabhar is na gCeirníní ar Shráid Chill Mhantáin, i ngiorracht scread asail do Shráid Ghrafton. Istigh i gcathair ghríobháin Stuara Shráid Sheoirse tá siopa seanleabhar costasach eile, téigí ann! Níos faide ar shiúl tá cúpla both foilseachán i nDún Laoghaire, agus sa Charraig Dhubh. An cineál leabhar is fearr liom féin ná cinn nach bhfaca cheana, iad tearc, leochaileach agus tí a ndíothaithe. In aimsir seo an digitithe mhóir ag Google cheapfá go raibh dúchas an fhocail scríofa

slán. Ní hionann picteilíní HD agus leabhar lámhdhéanta áfach. Is spéis liom clófhoirne nó teangacha aduaine is súim a gcomhairle isteach. Tá Siopa Leabhar 6 Sráid Fhearchair le moladh go mór. Aon uair a bhím ar fán fud fad na tíre nó ag tabhairt cuairt na cruinne fiú is deas liom teacht chugam féin i measc na leathanach is leabhar. Tá Cultúrlann Bhéal Feirste inmholta go maith. Fiú i mBostún Mheiriceá bhí orm dul ag póirseáil síos seanscabhait ar thóir na leabhar. Táim prioctha ag galar seo na leabhar ceart go leor ach ní mian liom é a leigheas. Ar uairibh is trom ar na pócaí atá sé ach ar an gcuid is mó is féidir leabhar álainn a fháil ar chostas caife. Deirtear liom anois go bhfuil lá na leabhar caite, gur seo chugainn ré na ríomhleabhar ach ní ghéillim dóibh. Is treise dúch ná solas na scáileán.

Tá cainteoirí líofa Gaeilge, idir fhir agus mná atá os cionn ocht mbliana déag d’aois, á lorg ag mac léinn fochéimí i gColáiste Ollscoile Baile Átha Cliath le páirt a ghlacadh i dtaighde bunaithe ar úsáid reatha na Gaeilge i measc cainteoirí líofa Gaeilge. Glacann an taighde thart ar leath uair a chloig ina iomlán agus déanfar é i gCOBÁC. Iarrfar ar rannpháirtithe sraith abairtí a chríochnú bunaithe ar céard a dhéarfá i gcomhthéacsanna éagsúla, chomh maith le ceistneoir cúlra teanga a líonadh amach. Beidh soláistí ar fáil freisin. Seol ríomhphost chuig 08633631@ucdconnect. ie chun coinne a dhéanamh nó chun breis eolais a fháil.

features@collegetribune.ie

COLLEGE TRIBUNE 23rd October 2012

REGULARS

Gentleman and a Scholar Elizabeth Coote

e do have a gentleman, and perhaps he is also a scholar, who lives amongst us here at Belfield campus. Many questions about him have been posed by people working or studying at UCD over the years. I can only give a few answers on what I know personally. I worked here on the campus from 1973 and this gentleman arrived in 1984 approximately and has stayed with ever since. I was asked many times: 'who is he?' and 'where does he come from?' The answer is I do not know. What I do know is about the day he arrived into the Students’ Union Shop in the Library Building. That memorable day is etched on my mind forever; the gentleman did not speak to me or to my sister, both on that day working in the Student Union Shop. Her name was Judy Mullen and she died in 1984. RIP. Judy worked in the Medical School Earlsfort Terrace during term times and in the summer months came out to Belfield. It was Judy who realised that he was not going to speak and so she gave him a sandwich and a chocolate bar. He nodded his head in gratitude but

remained standing at the counter. He pointed to the cigarettes which were on open display at that time. We both looked at each other and agreed we would give the twenty packet of Major, the cigarettes that Judy smoked. We paid half each for the cigarettes, the sandwich and bar we gave on behalf of our employer the SU. We had common sense and good business contacts to our suppliers we knew they would give us a donation to cover the cost of the goods we gave out free. Whenever we supported anyone who may have needed a little help, that might be a student or this stranger, we had companies who were generous. We were running a business and profits were important to cover wages but keeping costs low was also important. The shops were owned and run by students. Keeping prices down was very important, as it is now, money was tight and times were hard. We had the right balance and the shops were very successful. The following day the said man arrived for the second time and we knew we could not continue to give free cigarettes, only food. Just as we were about to say no, our gen-

tleman friend opened his hand and showed us the money for the cigarettes. That was the beginning of a friendship and deep respect that we felt for this man. We would never know his name or who he was or where he came from, what we did know was he was a polite, gentle person who asked for nothing, and deserved our respect. During the next thirty years he has remained with us here on the campus, and nothing has changed. He has seen many students and staff come and go in those years. In fact right up to the day of this publication, he is still walking daily through the grounds, and the buildings; he speaks to no one and keeps to himself. If the gentleman is reading this I wish to say to him that the community on this campus of UCD have accepted and embraced him and I have no doubt will continue to respect and support him. You may not know this but I have a name for you, I keep it in my heart and mind, it is Joseph. Joseph being the father of Jesus, and I have felt during all these years you have been amongst us, that you represent the figure of Jesus for many of us.

Your story is very unique and unusual. During the early years the authorities were concerned as they should be that you being a total stranger walking amongst the students they needed to check your behaviour. The men given this task were known as the men in green uniform or better known as the ‘greenies’, employed by the College, they were permanent staff. These men and the UCD porters took on the task of watching you very discreetly and they gave a full report back that you were 100% non-intrusive to anyone and that your conduct was impeccable, hence you remained with us. These security men and porters were men who valued their work and above all the College that employed them. They also had a sense of responsibility, compassion, and pride in the work they were employed to do. How do I know this, well my own husband was one of those men, I had first hand information. The staff over the years gave me donations at Christmas for you Joseph and requested me to pay for your food or goods, which you bought in the shop. Our own staff of the SU shop put money into a spe-

cial Christmas card, year after year, wishing you Joseph a very happy Christmas. The buildings and grounds are your home Joseph. We have been blessed to have you amongst us and you have given us far more than we gave to you. I am no longer working in the SU shop, however I continue to be in UCD and it lifts my spirits when I see you’re still here after so many years. I wish you many more years amongst us. On a final note Joseph, I believe you were sent to us by the Almighty, as an example of how we should behave towards others, I hope that the present day students will continue to show you kindness and respect. God love and bless you now and always. I hope that that many people will agree that it has been good for all of us to have such a nice man on Belfield campus for these past thirty years. The fact you stayed with us such a long time would lead me to believe that you have been happy with the community of UCD; I do hope and pray that is the case.

Overheard in the College Tribune ofﬁce

Cheryl - "James just quoted The Simpsons, I feel like a proud mama." James - "We have a really fucked up relationship Cheryl..." Thomas - "My dad had a turtle, but he forgot about it and it died." Cheryl - "That's a lovely story." James - "I bought the biscuits, Cheryl made the coffee..... and here's Cathal." Cheryl - "Why on earth am I so cool and so groovy lads? It's killing me here." Cathal - "Because you go bom bom bom, obviously."

goldfishgraveyard.wordpress.com

Check out more Tribune banter on overheardinthectofﬁce.blogspot.com

It’s Satire, STUPID!

INSIDE "Paddy Guiney claims he has binders full of women." "Revealed: spoiled milk on campus attributed to particularly pampered cow." "Internet addiction course to be offered online." "Massmurdering clown deemed to have had last laugh." "Clothes manufacturer admits vested interest." "Rolling stones knock people over."

Fine-Gael-Fianna-Fáil alliance formed in UCD

The red scare grips UCD T his week saw the mass mobilisation of Communists, Anarchists, Trotskyites and all manner of lefties on campus with a march on Tierney. The reds were out in force protesting the many cutbacks in UCD ranging from the Library to the substandard spoons that have recently been introduced in the Arts Café. Campus quaked as the throngs of protesters mobilised, coming from all corners and no corners to take on the man. Exhausted from the long march that began at the Student Centre the masses sat down for a quick smoking break outside the library before they stormed Tierney in a blaze of glory not seen

since the October Revolution. The Registrar, Mr Rogers, made a narrow escape, slipping by the crowd, coffee in hand, as their shrill voices permeated the air with demands of justice, equality and fraternity. The red flag waved and fists were held firm as the proletariat heartily sang out the verses of the internationale. Men with beards to rival Karl Marx spoke as helpless onlookers cried aghast, “they’re revolting, and they’re revolting.” Indeed they were. The great unwashed were claiming back their campus as feckless bureaucrats and slaves of the administration looked on from behind twitching curtains fearing that the establishment was about to

crumble around them. Fiery speeches ensued on the steps of Tierney as the revolutionaries were locked out of this Bastille of UCD, though they were prepared to storm it. Really, they were, honestly. With nothing left to do except stick it to the man, the group in typical hippie fashion, erupted into an orgy of sex and socialism with a number of the more radical members attempting to head to Belfast afterwards. The would-be boarder hoppers were foiled however by a group of aged yet agile nuns who had manufactured makeshift lassoes from their rosaries. The pro-lifers gathered outside the gates, the blood

of abortion doctors fresh on their hands, rounding up the miscreants for re-education in one of their many “love” camps. One terrified bystander commented, “UCD might be safe from these anti-capitalist, pro-choice hooligans today, but I’m terrified to be on campus least they get their way and turn it into a mini Paris Commune!” It is also understood that the President of the university has fled the campus for fear he might go the way of Louis XIV. The Estates General, also known as the Governing Authority, are expected to meet soon to discuss how the threat of a Communist uprising can best be dealt with.

sport@collegetribune.ie

COLLEGE TRIBUNE

23rd October 2012

SPORT

Irish volleyball champions on a roll Benny O’Regan reports on the varied fortunes of UCD’s volleyball sides

CD Premier Men's team continued their flying form to defending their League title after overcoming the challenges of Amber Coast in Maynooth last week, and at home on Sunday against new boys to the League, NUIG Alliance. On Sunday, UCD continued being their destructive self by handing out a harsh lesson for the students of Galway to learn in welcoming them to the league. UCD were never really in any trouble in the opening exchanges and took the opening set quite convincingly. However, NUIG upped their game in the 2nd set, leading 19-16 at one stage. Now knowing they would have to snap out of their complacency, the Champions let their volleyball do the talking from then on. A lack of experience let the visitors down as UCD got over the line to take 2nd set and never looked back, finishing NUIG off in a straight sets victory: 3-0. Their flawless record

after three convincing victories leaves UCD sitting pretty at the top of the Irish Premier League table. Despite beating Munster Thunder last week, the Division 1 Men’s team could not build on that performance when taking on the challenge of last year's runners-up, Garda A, last Saturday. They put up a brave effort with the bare minimum available on the day, having to introduce new, inexperienced players to the game. Garda took an early lead at 14-4 in the first set. Changes were made from then on as UCD weren't able to take control in the majority of the points played. The tables turned then as they took the initiative in the 2nd set with more confidence in their play. They held their nerve for large parts of the 3rd set and it was touch and go until the latter stages but Garda always held a nice, small cushion all the way, and got to 25 with enough to spare. UCD tried their best to get back on track but it was wasn't good enough

to take the win, losing 3-1 : 25-15, 18-25, 25-21, 25-16. Last Sunday's game saw the recently relegated Division 2 women’s team with only 6 players and facing a hard test once again. The girls are still without a coach, but the 3 more experienced girls of last year's Division 1 team have handled the situation well. A bit of confusion and flattering nerves let to a rather slow start and the 1st set was clearly won by Tallaght Rockets. But UCD got more and more confident and the

result of the second set was 25:23 after a big comeback from the UCD girls. Not wanting to give up without a fight, they started into the 3rd set with a rocky start (5:0) but soon evened it out (9:9) and a possible win was on the cards. It was a head to head race up to 22:22 and both teams were nervous for the outcome. In the end Tallaght Rockets held their nerve and won 25:23 but the UCD girls have shown that they have the will to win and are getting stronger from week to week."

The Women's Premier team are still looking for their first win of the campaign after more disappointment in their recent matches. Things didn't get much better in Friday night's home game as DVC powered their way through to a convincing straight set victory. UCD had no answer to the slick attacking style of the visitors but the girls still gave a good account of themselves against the favourites for the Premier Women's League title.

nore. The most pertinent question arising out of the saga is where to now for cycling as a sport? It sets the sport back to the dark days of the nineties and survival now becomes a real issue. Not only is the integrity of the sport among the public damaged once again, but there has also been negative financial responses. The past week has seen numerous sponsors looking to distance themselves from the sport. The UCI must shoulder a lot of criticism too,

as must Pat McQuaid and Heim Verbruggen, leaders who zealously defended Armstrong with little in the way of investigation. The revelations can be seen as a new beginning for cycling, as witnessed in the reactions of current members of the peloton to the Armstrong revelations, with younger riders far more critical of the once-legend. Whether or not this fresh attitude to doping can save a once proud and noble sport remains to be seen.

Cycling fights for its life Anthony Strogen considers the future of cycling in the wake of Lance Armstrong’s doping scandal

or the cycling world, the last fortnight has felt like a surreal and purging apocalypse – a storm that has lingered on the horizon for years. With the release of the US Anti-Doping Agency’s dossier of evidence against seven time Tour de France winner Lance Armstrong, the last remaining shred of credibility of cycling’s biggest ever star was eroded; the final exclamation point of a decade long saga. The damning 202 page booklet contained sordid details and almost unbelievable testimony from a plethora of former associates and friends of the Texan. Although the latest revelations have been the most explosive developments in any doping story involving Armstrong, it is by no means the first time that his name has been at the centre of allegations regarding performance enhancing drugs. After his incredible recovery from cancer, Armstrong returned to cycling and claimed a stunning maiden victory in the 1999 edition of the Tour de France. However, it subsequently emerged that he tested positive for a banned stimulant during the race. He received a back-dated prescrip-

tion and the incident was largely swept under the carpet. This was a year removed from the Festina team doping scandal that almost ruined cycling, and the theory goes that the authorities let this episode slide for the good of the sport. Subsequent rumours over further positive tests in 2002 and his relationship with disgraced Italian doctor Michele Ferrari, a man who was singled out in the infamous Operation Puerto as a veritable doping genius, were treated in a similar manner. Armstrong’s persona grew to an unimaginable level and this combined with his continued financial support of UCI, the cycling governing body, meant he was almost untouchable - too big to fail. Towards the end of his career and in the subsequent years, Armstrong was dogged by allegations originating from disgraced former teammates. However, these allegations were widely passed-off by the cycling world, the riders involved pigeon-holed as jealous cheats who wanted attention and a chance to hit back at the sport that had ostracized them. The accusations did not go unnoticed though, and USADA began to compile testimony which

could bring down Armstrong. In August, Armstrong decided not to contest the case brought by USADA, citing tiredness with what he labelled “a witch-hunt” and felt he no longer needed to prove his innocence. This was the beginning of the end. While there still remained a modicum of doubt over his guilt, this was destroyed by the release of the evidence by USADA, with page after page of statements, all of which said that he was the mastermind of an intricate and clinical doping circle. Riders once considered to be totally loyal to Armstrong gave accounts: Levi Leipheimer; Mick Barry; Christian VandeVelde; and even his long-time trusted general George Hincapie. Dubliner Emma O’Reilly, a masseuse who worked with Armstrong during his career, supplied an affidavit in which she confessed to hand delivering ‘pills’ to the cycling hero which she believed to be performance enhancing. The game is well and truly up for Lance. Any reasonable person couldn’t for one second believe him in his cries of innocence; the evidence is too overpowering to ig-

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COLLEGE TRIBUNE 23rd October 2012

Like a dream

Sports Editor Conall Devlin speaks to the man of the match in this year’s All Ireland Senior Hurling Championship final, UCD and Kilkenny forward Walter ‘Wally’ Walsh.

hen inter county managers place their faith in a young player by handing him their debut, it tends to be on a shrill winter’s evening or damp spring afternoon. The secondary competitions in respective provinces or the National League is often the appropriate setting for such an experiment. In this way, or in theory at least, a player can be bedded into the setup away from much of the media spotlight and can fearlessly express themselves on the field. Not so for Wally Walsh. Kilkenny manager Brian Cody threw out the textbook on conventional wisdom by handing the six foot four 21 year old from the Tullogher Rosbercon club his debut at full forward on the biggest stage of them all, the All Ireland final replay against Galway. It was one of the boldest managerial moves in recent years. To throw in a rookie like Walsh, a completely unknown quantity to punters and Galway coaches alike, and to ask him to spearhead what has been

without doubt the most potent forward line in the modern era, took sheer audacity. But Walsh was more than up to the task. His man of the match performance saw him score 1-3 from play and completely outperform Galway’s star defender Kevin Hynes. As he recalls the day a few weeks on, the astonishment of his achievement is only sinking in: “It still feels surreal. I had no idea that I would be starting, I was just hoping to feature in the game at some stage but to get the start was a great shock for me. We had a meeting on the Friday night and the team was named, I couldn’t believe it when I was down on the sheet to start full forward.” Many questioned Galway’s experience coming into the replay and favoured Kilkenny due to their seasoned veterans’ ability to rise to the occasion once more. As it transpired, it was the raw quality and the free abandonment with which Walsh dominated the full forward line that was the ultimate thorn in

Galway’s side, but Walsh acknowledges that the advice received from older heads was indispensable in his own success on the day- “David Herity told me during the week not to be surprised if I might be starting. The likes of Henry (Shefflin), Larks (Eoin Larkin) and the injured Michael Rice were very helpful also.” There are no pretences with Walsh. Even now, having turned in the performance he did, he is still humbled by the huge gamble Brian Cody took. “Brian is the best manager ever in the game so it was just a privilege for me to play on a great team under him. I am very grateful that he gave me a chance to play especially in an all Ireland final when other managers wouldn’t, just goes to show what guts he has as a manager.” Going forward, having gradually settled back into college life after the “blur” of the past few weeks, the Ag Science student wants success with UCD this year as it may be his last shot to do so with placements

on the horizon, remarking, “I hope to win a Fitzgibbon Cup because it may be my final year. I feel it would be great for Dave Billings and all involved because of the work they put in.” Regarding Kilkenny? Walsh is typically callow on the matter. “I just hope to be asked back in and get ready to prepare for the league and hopefully win another All Ireland in 2013.” It is clear to see that Wally Walsh is a young man who personifies the Brian Cody blueprint on Kilkenny

Hurlling. The men who Walsh currently looks up to in the Kilkenny dressing room, the likes of Henry Shefflin and Eoin Larkin, haven’t won the Liam McCarthy Cup seven out of the last ten years due to a sense of entitlement. It is rather the enduring hunger of self-effacing superb hurlers who have quietly gone about their business to become some of the greatest players of all time that has merited their position. And with a bit of luck, Wally Walsh could similarly dominate for years to come.

last upwind UCD5 came away with the win and qualified for the semifinals to race against UCD6 after they beat UCC4. Another strong performance by UCD6 led to them qualifying for the Bronze fleet finals and beating UCC5 to take gold in the Bronze fleet. UCD 3 cruised through their quarter and semi-final races in the Silver fleet beating TCD3 and UL2 respectively. After racing very well all weekend they came up against TCD Alumni (moving up from the

Bronze fleet) in the Silver fleet final, who were suspiciously sailing as TCD6. UCD3 ended up finishing 2nd in the Silver flee: a fantastic start to the year. UCD1 continued to lead from the front winning their quarter-final, with a comfortable 2-0 win against DCU1. In the Gold fleet semi-final they came up against the Alumni team who had been setting the bar high all weekend. UCD1 got off to a dream start winning the first race; unfortunately Alumni came back

strong to win the next 2 races to win the semi-final 2-1. Alumni went on to win the overall event beating UL1 in the final.

UCDSC Attend IUSA Easterns Cian Mollen Sports Writer

n the 13th and 14th October, UCD Sailing Club made the journey south to Wexford town for the Irish University Sailing Association (IUSA) Easterns Championships. With a great weather forecast and 8 different colleges from around Ireland attending, it was bound to be a great weekend at Wexford Harbour Boat and Tennis Club. The event was one of the 5 college team racing events held in the year, sailed in two-man Firefly dinghies. Bright on Saturday morning, the 28 competing teams awoke to reasonable conditions. With a gentle breeze, sunshine and a strong spring tide a challenging day of racing was on the cards. As it was the first event of the year, all the college 1st and the top ranked 2nd teams from last year were split into Gold A and B fleets. The Silver fleet was made up of a mixture of the remaining 2nd teams, the 3rd and the top ranked 4th college teams with all others in Bronze. After losing many sailors through graduation it was a new UCD1 and UCD2 team that took to the water, with a blend of new and

old blood. After a tough day’s racing, UCD1 led from the front winning 5 of their 6 races to qualify for the Gold finals, with UCD2 sailing very well in what was a very high standard fleet and just missing out on the Gold finals on Sunday. UCD3 followed UCD1’s footsteps coming away with 5 out of 6 wins in the Silver fleet despite a close encounter with UCD4, who more than held their own and qualified for the Bronze fleet finals after just missing out on the Silver fleet finals. The first race of the day in the Bronze fleet was UCD5 and UCD6, with UCD6 coming away with the win and continuing their strong performance to qualify comfortably for the Bronze fleet finals. UCD5 learnt from their mistakes in the first race and also qualified for the Bronze fleet finals. Sunday morning dawned with the sun shining and a light breeze for what was going to make for another intense day of racing with a strong tidal current present. The knock-out finals got underway early with UCD4 vs UCD5 racing in the first Bronze fleet quarter finals. After a race that came down to the

UCD3- Vinnie Varley and Shauna Golden, Maria Dolan and Maeve Lavelle, Sophie Murphy and Hodel Herlihy UCD6- Ben Shanahan and Callum Mc Loughlin, Keelan Conway and Andrew Fitzgerald, Eoin O’Neill and Niamh Murphy

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COLLEGE TRIBUNE 23rd October 2012

Continued from back page time, but it was to be a win for the Hoops and they saw out their 2-1 lead adequately if not comfortably. Despite their plucky display, the Students will rue their missed opportunities. Next up is their final game of the season: at home to Shelbourne on Friday. Guaranteed ninth place in the table, they can only aim to increase their points tally to a respectable 33 with a win.

Thomas Hobbs takes a look at the wild games and even crazier nomenclature in UCD’s Superleague. Caramel, showing no signs of ‘second season syndrome’ in the Superleague, were stunned when underdogs Rangers took a first half lead through a thunderous free kick from Ozan Balcik which Caramel ‘keeper Graham Fogarty could only admire. Former Granada FC midfield maestro Andy Lyne leveled after a well timed through ball from Conor Higgins. Caramel would go on to take all three points with the help of an own goal from Rangers captain Barry O’Fialchain who put his misfortune down to “some questionable physics”. Newcomers Waldo’s continued their impressive start to the season though in the form of a perhaps flattering 5-0 margin of victory over an injury-stricken and lacklustre Bayer Neverloosin side. Waldo’s are an impressive passing outfit featuring several players in their first year at UCD, including central midfielder Paul Egan, and they have shone in their debut season despite a goal drought from acclaimed front man Stephen Kelly. Neverloosin, whose makeshift

goalkeeper Rory Eakin after the game vowed “never” to play the position again, struggled for movement and creativity as powerhouse forward Ceithrean Murray and the mercurial Paddy Daly went home frustrated with chances few and far between. Captain Michael Guerin bemoaned his side’s weak psychological state, referring to the “mental” hangover of a narrow 6-5 loss to League Cup Champions, The Absolute Gents, on their previous outing. Culinary veterans Sauce Pan Celtic thumped table-toppers Breast Homage Albion with a 5-0 victory including two goals and two assists from Shane “The Train” Scanlon and Neil “9 toes” Cowzer respectively. It would be premature to read into league tables at this stage of the season but captain Cathal Jenkins will be

happy regardless to see Sauce Pan top of the league for at least five days, one point ahead of Caramel and Waldo's who both have a game in hand. Elsewhere, a man of the match performance from centre half Paddy Costello saw Real Baked run out 3-1 winners over Los Playeros while clinical finishing gave Oil Sheiks a 5-0 triumph over pointless Callary Rovers. Borussia Munchenblacksack were on the bad end of a difficult decision for the referee when opponents The Absolute Gents’ goalkeeper allegedly handled the ball outside of the box in the final minute of play in a controversial 2-1 win for the Gents.

UCD Senior Footballers obliterate DCU UCD 3-20 DCU 1-6 Conall Devlin Sports Editor

aptain Josh Hayes has said that the UCD Senior Footballers will be going all out to win the All Ireland League to build a winning habit before the Sigerson Cup after Christmas in the wake of the team’s perfect start to their campaign last week, demolishing what was a very weakened DCU side at Belfield. Bar the opening exchanges of the second half it was one-way traffic on the DCU defence for the duration, with fluid attacking football the catalyst to a huge scoreline in the Students’ favour. While the League competition is generally regarded as secondary in the College Football calendar, Hayes still sees the benefits of making an earnest effort to grab some silverware: “Honestly we haven't won any competition since I have been playing with UCD so we want to build a winning habit”. And the

team’s rampant first half display against the current Sigerson holders was a clear statement of intent. The game as a contest was effectively over within 20 minutes as Dave Billings’ side raced into a 1-11 0-1 lead. Niall Kilroy’s goal after 4 minutes after a fantastic hand pass assist from Donie Kingston set the wheel in motion and points from the in form Kilroy, Kingston, Kevin McLoughlin and Conor Downey followed in quick succession. Donegal captain Michael Murphy was the only star name on display for DCU but the full forward was largely starved of possession, his only chance on goal forcing a great save from Eoghan Keogh in the 24 minutes. In the subsequent play, the ball was recycled up the pitch by the lively Niall Murray and eventually found Conor Downey inside who broke through two tackles to slot in a second goal and a decisive sucker punch for the visitors. Peter O’Hanlon and Shane Carey pointed before half time for DCU to leave the score 2-12 0-3. DCU’s brief purple patch came in the first five minutes of the second half. Donie Smith was brought

Twigg's stylish send-off spells defeat for Students

Superleague – Division 1 Saturday Belfield’s favourite in-house soccer competition entered into its fourth round of fixtures this weekend with recent weather as exotic as some of the various team names across the three Superleague divisions. This week, we take a look at Division 1 Saturday; a league opened up by the departure of two top four teams in the form of the disbanded Haven’t a Kalou and ABCDE FC (who now ply their trade in the Sunday Premier League). The season has started in characteristically explosive fashion with a couple of early pace setters in the shape of Waldo’s and LA Galaxy Caramel, each with three wins from three heading into the weekend. Conversely, there have been humbling welcomes for others such as Roebuck Rangers who as early as week 3 found themselves lumbered a goal difference of -20. Despite their difficult start, Rangers appeared determined to shake off any ‘pushover’ tags on Saturday as they engaged in a tightly contested 4-2 loss to LA Galaxy Caramel.

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down in the fourteen and dispatched the resultant penalty in the 34th minute. However UCD recovered the stronghold well with Kevin Dyas and John Heslin hugely dominant at midfield. Simon Cadden’s left footed thunderbolt past DCU goalkeeper James Farrelly in the 46th minute was the pick of the game’s goals after being assisted by the elusive McLoughlin. The game petered out with UCD extremely comfortable victors. Speaking after the game, top scorer Niall Kilroy praised Kevin McLoughlin and John Heslin for their service to him inside: “They are both top top players and its great to have them both playing with UCD. Their distribution and use of the ball is excellent and obviously it makes it all the easier.” Next up for the Senior Footballers is a trip to NUI Maynooth this Wednesday where they will look to avenge their Sigerson Cup Quarter Final defeat to the Kildare outfit in last year’s campaign. In other GAA news, the Intermediate Footballers followed up an opening win against DCU with a comprehensive 4-14 1-7 win

UCD Netballers trounce Trinity

CD’s Netball first’s team took on Trinity in their second match of the local Dublin league at the Sports Centre last week. Despite the team fielding many new and inexperienced players, UCD made a seamless adjustment in bedding in new talent and a great second half led by Maeve McQuillan and Nicole Crockford made the difference in a 33-6 victory. Speaking after the game, Nicole Crockford acknowledged that the score didn’t reflect the intensity Trinity brought to the table saying, “we worked hard to maintain the lead with plenty of court control and smart play. Both teams showed lots of potential for the coming season and will look forward to meeting again in a return fixture.”

against DIT earlier in the week. Meanwhile the Senior Camogs beat Queens 4-10 to 0-2 at Belfield and the Fresher Hurlers had a big win at home to Waterford IT in the first league game 3-21 to 0-8.

Subs: C. Carty for McHugh (30mins); M. Brazil for McWeeney (36mins); S. Newcombe for Cadden (47 mins); A Murphy for Dyas (52mins); M. O’Dwyer for McLoughlin (54mins).

UCD side: E. Keogh; J. Hayes, G. Ryan, C. McHugh; N. Murray, S. Glynn, S. McWeeney, J. Heslin, K. Dyas; S. Cadden, D. Larkin, K. McLoughlin; N. Kilroy, D. Kingston, C. Downey.

UCD Scorers- N. Kilroy 1-8 (0-4 f) C. Downey 1-3; D. Kingston 0-5 (0-2 f); S. Cadden 1-0; D. Larkin 0-2; K. McLoughlin 0-2.

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TRIBUNE

COLLEGE TRIBUNE 23rd October 2012

BENNY O’REGAN REPORTS ON UCD’S VOLLEYBALL SIDES

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PAGE 17

Above: Shamrock Rovers against UCD. Photo: George Kelly

Twigg's stylish send-off spells defeat for students Shamrock Rovers - 2 UCD – 1 Amy Eustace Sports Editor

CD AFC took to Tallaght Stadium on Friday evening looking for a sixth win in seven matches, but left without following a 2-1 defeat. A first half brace from the outgoing Gary Twigg capped off an otherwise average performance from last year's champions Shamrock Rovers. David McMillan clawed one back as the Students gave a decent account

of themselves in a tough away fixture. The match began quietly; neither Ger Barron nor home keeper Oscar Jansson had much to do in the opening fifteen minutes. Rovers' first major chance fell to Gary Twigg, who has recently announced that he will depart his club of four years in favour of a move to the Irish League after season’s end. Unluckily for UCD, Twigg was certainly in the mood to mark his last game at Tallaght Stadium in style. Having latched onto Billy Dennehy's pass, he side-stepped Hugh Douglas, rounded Barron and made no mistake with the finish with just eighteen minutes on the clock.

Just a few minutes later, Stephen Rice put it on a plate for the Hoops hero of the evening (and indeed the past four seasons), who slotted the ball past the UCD custodian for his second of the night and his last goal in Tallaght. David McMillan was on hand to capitalise as the hosts took their eye off the ball following Twigg’s celebrations. Just two minutes after the Scot had doubled Rovers’ lead, McMillan halved it again with a volley that curled just over Jansson’s fingertips and into the back of the net. McMillan had another chance again shortly after but Jansson was equal to his headed attempt this time around. At the other end, Twigg had his hopes of a hat

trick dashed when Ciaran Nangle blocked his header. Barron was kept busy, brilliantly keeping out a Billy Dennehy effort from distance. Half time came and went and captain Mick Leahy was booked within minutes of the restart. Samir Belhout could have equalised for the Students, but his shot was deflected inches wide of the post and nothing came out of the resulting corner. McMillan was almost through on goal when Jansson fouled him at the edge of the box, the goalkeeper earning a yellow card for his troubles and conceding a free kick, however Paul O’Conor’s resulting effort was just over the bar. The visitors had a handful of

handball shouts, but referee Paul Tuite rejected their calls for a penalty on two occasions. Gary Twigg left the pitch emotionally - Gary O’Neill coming on to replace him after 75 minutes - to a rapturous applause from devoted Rovers fans who have shared many highs and lows with the Scotsman since his arrival in Tallaght in 2009. Without their talismanic striker, Rovers took a back seat somewhat as UCD pushed for an equaliser. McMillan attempted an incredible chip from 30 yards out, forcing an exceptional save from Rovers’ Swedish goalkeeper and Robbie Benson shot just wide in added Continued on page 19