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ISSUE NO. 31 APRIL 2015
Minerva Magazine for Members of the RDS SCIENTIFIC EXCELLENCE 2014 Boyle Medal Laureate Professor Seamus Martin
AWARDS RDS Champion of Champions Irish Forestry Awards
EVENTS Forum on Climate Smart Agriculture RDS Rising Stars Concert
FEATURE Robin Lewis-Crosby Legacy Irish Sport Horse Strategy
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RDS
Minerva
Editorial
Minerva
Welcome to the spring edition of Minerva MATTHEW DEMPSEY RDS PRESIDENT APRIL 2015
ISSUE NO. 31 APRIL 2015
EDITOR Diarmuid Hanifin
CONTRIBUTORS Eileen Byrne Susan Cox Mary Donnelly Emma Ellis Paul Farrelly Ann-Marie Hardiman Eve Lalor Paul O’Grady Dara O’Leary Claire Mulhall Joanna Quinn Karen Sheeran Gerard Whelan
DESIGN AND PRODUCTION Sub-editing and layout Think Media Ltd. Tel: 01 856 1166 www.thinkmedia.ie
Our broad remit means that we strive for
scientists, Prof. Seamus Martin, as he delivered a
excellence and impact across an exceptionally
lecture after receiving Ireland’s most prestigious
wide range of areas. 2015 is proving to be an
scientific award, the RDS Irish Times Boyle Medal.
exciting and fulfilling year for the Society, with
All of these undertakings are carried out in your
real progress already being achieved.
name, with the aim of improving Ireland
Impress Printing
In conjunction with the prestigious International
culturally and economically, the long-standing
Distribution
Print Bureau
Institute for European Affairs, we recently
RDS mission. Helping us on this mission, we are
launched an initiative to find a practical solution
greatly appreciative of Members’ contributions –
to the interlinked problems of climate change
through time and effort given, as well as
and food security. The RDS can play a potentially
subscriptions. Starting this year and over the next
pivotal role in this debate, having a distinguished
five years, Membership subscriptions will be
history of involvement in both science and
standardised for city, country and overseas
agriculture. The newly launched ten-year
Members, regardless of when one joined,
strategic plan for the Irish sport horse is another
recognising that everyone is a Member for the
initiative in which we are integrally involved. The
ideals the RDS embodies and strives to realise.
RDS is a key contributor to this important
With Easter over, the Horse Show is appearing on
strategy, progressing important changes that will
the horizon. I trust and hope that I will see many
improve an aspect of rural Ireland that is
of you over the summer months. Thank you for
important socially and economically. Recently we
both your friendship and encouragement and, in
heard from one of Ireland’s most distinguished
many cases, active participation.
ROYAL DUBLIN SOCIETY Ballsbridge Dublin 4 T: 01 668 0866 F: 01 660 4014 www.rds.ie www.facebook.com/RDSdublin www.facebook.com/dublinhorseshow www.twitter.com/theRDS Minerva: General: RDS Foundation: RDS Membership:
minerva@rds.ie info@rds.ie foundation@rds.ie members@rds.ie
Contents 3
April 2015
Science 2015 RDS Primary Science Fair
4
Forging a new path for sustainable agriculture Champion of Champions Awards
www.rds.ie Minerva, the magazine for Members of the Royal Dublin Society is published tri-annually.
Agriculture
6
Events Increased funding for RDS arts awards
Any views expressed are not those necessarily held by the RDS or its Council. No part of this publication may be reproduced or distributed without prior written permission.
8
April 2015
Upcoming Members’ events
12 Features A lasting arts legacy Reaching New Heights
14 Members’ Club Horse Show hospitality Reciprocal clubs
Membership Dublin Horse Show 1931 Celebrating classical music at the RDS
Page 2
10 Calendar of Events
16 Review RDS developments
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Science Minerva
RDS
RDS Primary Science Fair 2015 Taking place alongside the BT Young Scientist and Technology Exhibition, the RDS Primary Science Fair continues to go from strength to strength. This year, a number of distinguished visitors joined amost 3,000 young participants.
THE FUTURE OF SCIENCE US Ambassador to Ireland Kevin O'Malley, with RDS Past President Liam Connellan, meeting participants in the RDS Primary Science Fair.
PRIMARY ACHIEVEMENT Former President of Ireland Mary Robinson receiving an explanation of a project from students at the RDS Primary Science Fair 2015.
Boyle Medal Laureate Seamus J. Martin, Smurfit Professor of Medical Genetics, TCD, has been awarded the 2014 RDS Irish Times Boyle Medal for Scientific Excellence for his pioneering work in molecular biology and immunology. Inaugurated in 1899, the Boyle Medal is Ireland's premier science award. In 1999 the Boyle Medal became a joint venture between the RDS and The Irish Times. It is now awarded biennially and carries a cash prize of €20,000.
BOYLE MEDAL CONFERRAL From left: Kevin O’Sullivan, Editor, The Irish Times; Seamus Martin, Smurfit Professor of Medical Genetics, TCD, and Boyle Medal Laureate 2014; RDS President Matthew Dempsey; and, Dick Ahlstrom, Science Editor, The Irish Times.
Professor Martin has made outstanding contributions to
biology and which has
The Medal is named after the
elements and compounds,
the understanding of
significant implications for the
acclaimed ‘father of
and also propounded the
programmed cell death, a
treatment of major diseases
chemistry’, Robert Boyle
experimental method upon
process that underpins
such as cancer, Parkinson’s
(1627-1691), who in 1661
which all modern science is
numerous aspects of human
and autoimmunity.
introduced the concept of
based.
April 2015
Page 3
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RDS
Minerva Agriculture
Forging a new path for sustainable Irish agriculture The RDS and the IIEA recently launched an initiative to make Ireland an international leader in climate smart agriculture. Climate change and food
Director General Tom Arnold
security are the most
said that: “Climate change,
important issues of this
food security and malnutrition
century. Ireland has a
are among the greatest
responsibility in both areas: to
challenges faced by humanity,
be smart and effective in the
and implementing climate
way we produce higher quality
smart agriculture on farms can
food; and, to be responsible
help address all three”.
and diligent in tackling our
The RDS and the IIEA will host
greenhouse gas emissions
a series of high-level
commitments.
consultations, seminars and
Straddling both the scientific
surveys over the next six
and the agriculture traditions,
months, before drawing up a report to be presented to
the RDS is perfectly positioned to try and forge an ambitious path to a place where Ireland is able to do both. Ireland is one
A VITAL ISSUE RDS President Matthew Dempsey launched the Leadership Forum on Climate Smart Agriculture with Tom Arnold, IIEA, and Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Simon Coveney TD (seated).
Government and other stakeholders in early 2016. The first public lecture in the series will take place in the
of the most recent signatories of the Global Alliance for
Society has a unique
future-proofing the long-term
RDS Library on Tuesday, April
Climate Smart Agriculture,
opportunity, through our
success and sustainability of
14, at 6.30pm when Mr
which was launched in
partnership with the Institute
Irish agriculture using the best
Forbes Elworthy of Craigmore
September 2014, with 18
of International and European
scientific evidence available.
Sustainable will speak on ‘The
other governments and
Affairs (IIEA), to provide the
Over the next year we will
opportunity of Climate Smart
multiple NGOs and
practical and policy leadership
hear from best practice
Agriculture, lessons from New
multinationals signing up, such
to chart a path to
internationally, consult with a
Zealand, Australia and the UK’.
as the World Bank, Rainforest
implementing climate smart
wide range of stakeholders,
The second lecture in the series
Alliance, the World Food
agriculture in Ireland through
identify the best climate
will see the Society welcome
Programme and Kellogg’s.
this Leadership Forum.
smart practices for Ireland
Dr Bruce Campbell of CGIAR,
Climate smart agriculture has a
Minister Simon Coveney
and communicate the
to discuss ‘Climate-Smart
triple win of objectives at its
launched this initiative in
collation of these findings to
Agriculture: the Global
core: increasing farm
March and was effusive in his
a wider audience. Our aim is
Research Agenda’. This lecture
productivity and incomes;
support for the project,
for Irish farming to become a
will take place on May 25 with
building resilience to the
praising both the RDS and the
climate smart agriculture
details still to be confirmed at
impacts of climate change;
IIEA for embarking upon this
leader in policy and practice,
time of going to print.
and, reducing agricultural
endeavour, which will focus
ensuring its sustainable
greenhouse gas emissions.
on inclusive solutions. Tom
long-term future”.
Admission to these lectures is free and open to all, but
Kirley, Chairman of the RDS
Unique opportunity
Agriculture Committee, and
The greatest challenges
booking is essential. Call 01
The RDS Committee of
formerly of Teagasc for many
Speaking at the launch of the
240 7206, or email
Agriculture and Rural Affairs
years, said: “The Leadership
IIEA-RDS Leadership Forum on
agriculture@rds.ie to book.
believes strongly that the
Forum is about
Climate Smart Agriculture, IIEA
Page 4
April 2015
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Agriculture
Minerva
RDS
Best cattle in Ireland celebrated Each year the RDS rewards
discernible difference to a
and celebrates the best
farm’s bottom line and carbon
showing cattle at a ceremony
footprint.
in Ballsbridge, presenting
An excellent example of the
cups and trophies that were
impact that improved genetics
used in the Spring Show for
can have on farm profitability
many years.
and efficiency is the winner of
Recognising the genetic
the 2015 RDS Champion of
quality of beef and dairy
Champions Economic
cattle, the RDS Champion of
Breeding Index Award, David
Champions Awards
Kerr’s Rossbheag Nuala, who
demonstrates the scientific
has an economic breeding
future for Irish farming and
index of €304, compared to
how farmers can exploit
the national average of €125.
genetics to maximise
Rossbheag Nuala is number
profitability. This emphasis on
one in the national EBI
science tallies with the recent
rankings and in her 15 years
ceremony, outgoing
productivity and output
venture into climate smart
she has had 13 calves, and
Committee Chairman Mr Tom
potential while at the same
agriculture by the RDS (see
yielded almost five tonnes of
Cannon said: “Scientifically
time reducing costs through
page 4), which hopes to
milk solids, with an average
informed breeding decisions
greater efficiency, allowing for
demonstrate how up-to-date
calving interval of 368 days.
will allow Irish beef and dairy
the practical adoption of
scientific measures can make a
Speaking at the awards
farmers to increase herd
climate smart agriculture”.
PRIZE PRESENTATIONS Ernest Mackey and David Kerr were recipients of RDS Champion of Champions medals in January 2015.
Irish Forestry Awards open for entry Forestry has an important and
Forestry Awards.
ever-evolving role to play in
With a prize fund of €10,000,
the Irish economy. Some
the Irish Forestry Awards
12,000 people are employed
recognise and reward farmers
in forestry and associated
and woodland owners who
industries such as timber
are employing the principles
processing at sawmills and
of climate smart agriculture
the wood energy sector.
on their properties, including:
The forestry sector has
sound commercial
enormous future potential in
management; environmental
terms of the economic,
protection; and, biodiversity.
environmental and
Everyone with woodlands is
recreational benefits that it
encouraged to enter the
can provide, and the RDS is
Awards as all woodlands,
committed to working with
large or small, are of merit.
via email from forestry@rds.ie.
please contact the RDS
the Forest Service to support
Application forms are
The closing date for entries is
Agriculture Foundation
the sustainable development
available on the RDS website
June 2, 2015. If you require
Department directly on 01
of the sector through the Irish
– www.rds.ie/agriculture – or
any additional information,
240 7215.
SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT Forestry has enormous potential for Ireland, in terms of environmental and economic benefits.
April 2015
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RDS
Minerva
Events
RDS supporting the arts
OBLIQUITY CHAIR Enda Scott, Award of Excellence winner at the RDS Craft Awards 2014, on his winning entry.
SWEET MUSIC 2014 RDS Music Bursary winner Clara Daly Donnellan.
2015 will see a €40,000 prize
Committee Joseph Lynch said:
fund for the RDS National Craft
“These Student Art and Craft
Awards and €20,000 awarded
Awards showcase and reward
at the RDS Student Art Awards,
work from the best craft-makers
both of which are now open
and graduating visual artists in
for entries, while the RDS Music
Ireland, encouraging and
Bursary has been increased to
assisting emerging talent in art
€15,000. The goal of the RDS
and craft towards a professional
Arts Committee is to help
career, while at the same time
emerging artists to make the
recognising the best established
breakthrough to professional
craftspeople in the country. This
artist and this substantial prize
year we have been able to
fund will significantly help in
increase the prize funds by
this. Running since 1860, the
almost 50%, with a top prize of
Taylor Art Award has past
€10,000 for the best
winners such as Louis Le
graduating student artist, and
Broquay and Dorothy Cross,
three prizes of €5,000 for
and RDS support for Irish craft
craft-makers. This year’s
Next month will see the first
prize to €15,000 by the RDS
has spanned three centuries.
awards take on even more
of the Rising Stars concerts
shows our genuine
The substantial prize fund for
importance with it being the
for 2015, in which Anna
commitment to this area,”
2015 demonstrates that the
Year of Design and the
Devin will star. Anna is a
said Joseph Lynch. "Making
RDS will continue to have a
additional sponsorship from
previous recipient of the RDS
the transition to professional
significant impact into the
Irish Design 2015 and the
Music Bursary and from that
musician is a costly one and
future too.
Design & Craft Council of
backing has gone on to have
the RDS Music Bursary is
Speaking on foot of the RDS
Ireland has helped to make
a real impact in the operatic
there to support emerging
Student Art Awards call for
2015’s a very substantial prize
scene across Europe. “The
Irish talent in doing this.”
entries, Chairman of the Arts
offering”.
increase of the Music Bursary
Page 6
April 2015
UNITITLED #02, FROM ‘ORDINANCES AND ANGELS’ Ruth Moore is pictured with her Taylor Award winning work at the 2014 RDS Student Art Awards.
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Events
RDS Library Speaker Series
Minerva
RDS
International soprano at the RDS
Matthew Jebb
Philip Martin and John O’Conor
Plants, People and Places
Archives and Anecdotes
April 29
May 13
6.30pm, RDS Library
6.30pm, RDS Concert Hall
Matthew Jebb will talk about the historic
On the eve of the commencement of the
relationship people have with the
Dublin International Piano Competition
RDS Music Bursary winner for 2007, Anna
landscape and the importance of this in
2015, two of Ireland’s most
Devin, will be the guest performer at the first
understanding and protecting our flora
accomplished pianists will share and
Rising Stars concert of 2015, in the RDS
in the future. Matthew has been the
exchange anecdotes and musical
Concert Hall on May 7.
Director of the National Botanic Gardens
recollections from their extensive careers.
Anna will be joined by four Rising Stars
of Ireland since 2010. Formerly his role
This event complements the Library and
performers, third-level music students in
was that of horticultural taxonomist and
Archives exhibition ‘Pianissimo: over a
conservatories of music from all over Ireland
keeper of the National Herbarium since
century of classical music at the RDS’.
who have been chosen for their outstanding
1996. He is the current Chairman of
Following the talk the Library will be
talent. They are: Jane Hackett (violin), Royal
Plant Network: The Plant Collections
open to view the exhibition.
Irish Academy of Music; Gary Beecher
Network of Britain and Ireland, a role he
Pianist and composer Philip Martin’s
(piano), CIT & Freemasons Young Musician
has filled since 2004. He is also a
concert tours have taken him around the
of the Year; Eugene Alves (cello), CIT Cork
member of the European Consortium of
world. A prolific composer, he has
School of Music; and, Pablo
Botanic Gardens. Matthew spent many
written many major commissions, a
Manjón-Cabezas Guzmán (clarinet), DIT
years living and working in Papua New
symphony (RTÉ), three piano concertos,
Conservatory of Music and Drama.
Guinea, which he first visited in 1980,
over 300 songs and many instrumental
As the many regular attendees at the
organising and leading a five-month
and chamber works including seven
popular Rising Stars concerts will know, the
Oxford University expedition to study
piano trios.
concert is free of charge, but booking is
ant-plants.
John O’Conor has been decorated Officier
required. Interest is expected to be high, so
His fascination with the living world
de l’Ordre des Arts et des Lettres by the
we advise RDS Members to book early.
stems from holidays spent among rock
French Government, awarded the
Full programme details are available on
pools and his taxonomic work has
Ehrenkreuz fur Wissenschaft und Kunst by
the RDS website. For further information
concentrated on plants with remarkable
the Austrian Government, and the Order
and to book your free tickets (required),
interactions with animal life, from
of the Rising Sun by the Japanese
visit www.rds.ie/risingstars.
carnivorous plants to plants that lead
Government, among other awards, during
symbiotic lives with ants.
his international piano career.
MUSICAL TALENT Former RDS Music Bursary recipient Anna Devin.
A pre-concert supper (€15 main course, tea/coffee) will be available in the RDS
Talks commence at 6.30pm and take place in the RDS Library, unless otherwise stated. Admission is free and open to all. Booking is essential on 01 240 7254, or via email at librarydesk@rds.ie.
Members' Club from 5.30pm. To book a table, please call 01 668 9244.
April 2015
Page 7
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RDS
Minerva
Membership
The Dublin Horse Show 1931
A SPECIAL GIFT Marianne van Pelt presented this fantastic photo album and scrapbook to the Society.
COMPETITOR 253 Mrs H. Davis Kenny rode ‘George B’ in the Ladies Challenge Trophy for Hunters in 1931.
Marianne van Pelt contacted the
horse sales at the Show. It also
from the album shows
‘George B’ and now, thanks to
Library recently to present a
has a loose page, which is of
competitor 253. It has been
Marianne's kind gesture, we can
fascinating gift of a photo
great significance. The page was
possible to identify from the
all share in remembering the
album and scrapbook. The
taken from a publication called
Horse Show catalogue that it
Show through such images
album was compiled in 1931 by
the ‘Irish Horse Show Annual’.
was entered by Mrs H. Davis
from 1931, the year the Society
an American couple visiting
Copies of the ‘Dublin Horse
Kenny of Shinrone, Co.
celebrated its bicentenary.
Ireland, and featured among
Show Annual’ can be found in
Tipperary. The woman seated
If any Member has or knows
the images are some from the
the Society’s Library with dates
side saddle is Mrs H. Davis
the whereabouts of copies of
Dublin Horse Show. Marianne
ranging from 1895-1914.
Kenny herself, taking part in
the ‘Irish Horse Show Annual’
purchased the album online,
The Library welcomes donations
Class 36, Ladies’ Challenge
or the ‘Dublin Horse Show
with the express intention of
of photographs, publications,
Trophy for Hunters, which
Annual’ from 1919 to the
presenting it to the Library. The
posters and related memorabilia
required that horses entered be
1930s, please contact the
album contains 13 original
from the Dublin Horse Show or
ridden by “Ladies side-saddle
Librarian, Gerard Whelan, on
photos from the Horse Show,
Spring Show. The photograph
and wearing Hunting
01 240 7256, or via email at
including an image from Goff’s
featured here (above, right)
Costume”. The horse was called
gerard.whelan@rds.ie.
Collection for Tommy Brennan Exhibition The Library exhibition during
If you have trophies, medals,
the Discover Ireland Dublin
photographs or other
Horse Show this year will pay
associated items, which you
tribute to the late legendary
would be prepared to donate
showjumper Tommy Brennan.
or lend for the exhibition,
The exhibition will run from
please contact Gerard Whelan
Thursday July 30 to Friday
in the Library on 01 240
September 18.
7256, or via email at
The Library is still seeking
gerard.whelan @rds.ie, or
suitable memorabilia for
write to him at RDS Library,
possible use in the exhibition.
Ballsbridge, Dublin 4.
Page 8
April 2015
LEGENDARY Tommy Brennan is the subject of this year’s Horse Show exhibition.
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Membership
Minerva
RDS
Pianissimo: over a century of classical music at the RDS To celebrate the 90th
best instrumental music”,
anniversary of the RDS Concert
stating that this would “enable
Hall and the 50th anniversary
music as an art to be
of the RDS Library building, the
systematically brought before
RDS Library and Archives will
the public as effectually as
be curating and hosting an
painting and sculpture are now
exhibition exploring the
in our public galleries…By
contribution the Society has
undertaking this work the Royal
made to classical music and its
Dublin Society will do
performance in Dublin from
important service to the cause
the 1880s until the present day.
of Art”.
On January 21, 1886, the
When the Irish Government
Council of the Royal Dublin
took over the RDS
Society appointed a committee
headquarters at Leinster House
“to spend a sum not exceeding
in 1922, the recitals were
of the 20th century who
RDS concert archive that will
£100 and the proceeds of the
moved temporarily to the
performed at the RDS.
give a fascinating insight into
sales of tickets, upon holding in
Abbey Theatre and then to the
Until the opening of the
the history of the
the lecture theatre of the
Theatre Royal. In 1925, on the
National Concert Hall on
performance of classical
Society a series of popular
completion of the RDS Concert
September 9, 1981, the RDS
music in Dublin, while
recitals from the work of the
Hall, the recitals were moved to
Concert Hall remained the
highlighting the support the
best composers of music to aid
their permanent home in
premier venue for the
RDS continues to offer to
in the development of an
Ballsbridge.
performance of classical music
young musicians.
enlightened musical taste in
Nathan Milstein, Kathleen
in Dublin.
Dublin”.
Ferrier, Rubinstein, Elisabeth
‘Pianissimo: over a century of
‘Pianissimo: over a century of
On March 4 of the same year
Schwarzkopf and Jacqueline du
classical music at the RDS’ is a
classical music at the RDS’
the Council approved weekly
Pre represent just a handful of
mixed media exhibition
will run in the RDS Library
performances of “works of the
the leading classical performers
utilising material from the
from May 7 to July 24, 2015.
GREAT PERFORMERS Elisabeth Schwarzkopf (left) sang in the RDS Concert Hall in the 1970s while Kathleen Ferrier sang there in 1949.
Free admission to Dublin Piano Competition at RDS RDS Members can avail of complimentary admission to the 10th International Dublin Piano Competition. The Competition will take place from May 15-26, 2015. As many as 60 young pianists will compete over four rounds to win this major international prize. The first and second
Members for these rounds, on
rounds will be held in the RDS
presentation of their
from May 15-21.
Membership card at the box
Admission is free for RDS
office in the RDS.
PIANO PRIZE Sixty young pianists will take part in this prestigious international competition.
April 2015
Page 9
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RDS
Minerva
Calendar of events
All information is correct at time of going to print. Members should telephone reception on 01 240 7296 or visit www.rds.ie to verify dates, times and locations.
APRIL 15
Gala Charity Bridge Evening – 7.15pm – RDS Library
15
RDS Speaker Series: Peter Fox – Great Libraries of the World: Trinity College Library Dublin – 6.30pm –
11
Member Event: Visit to Gurteen College: A focus on rural Ireland
11 – 17
RDS Library
Hypoxia : From Basic Mechanism to Therapeutics (E3) – RDS Concert Hall
17 – 19
Spring Ideal Home Show – Hall 8C
18 – 19
Irish Cycling Show – Hall 1
18 – 20
Morgan O’Driscoll Fine Art – Minerva Suite
22 – 23
Allsop Space Property Auctions – RDS Concert Hall
13
Editorial Board Meeting for Hypoxia – Merrion Room
22 – 23
Smart Business Show – Hall 1
15 – 22
Dublin International Piano Competition in association
24 – 25
Fianna Fáil Ard Fheis – Hall 1
28 –2/5
Members’ Event: Overseas cultural tour to Barcelona
16
Insurance Institute of Ireland Examinations – Hall 2
29
RDS Speaker Series: Matthew Jebb –
21 – 23
Insurance Institute of Ireland Examinations – Hall 2
Plants, People and Places – 6.30pm – RDS Library
22
Pianissimo: over a century of classical music at the RDS.
13
RDS Speaker Series: Philip Martin and John O’Conor – Archives and Anecdotes – 6.30pm – RDS Concert Hall
with Steinway & Sons – RDS Concert Hall
Four talks by Ian Fox (2 of 4) – 12.00pm to 1.15pm – Members’ Club
MAY 1
RDS Members’ event: Evening Dining – 6.30pm –
22
Members’ Club 5 – 18
Networking Masterclass with Sean Weafer, RDS Library, 7.30am - 9.00am.
UCD Summer Exams – Hall 8C
22 – 26
7
RDS Rising Stars Gala concert – RDS Concert Hall
24 – 29
CAP 1 summer exams – Hall 8A
7
IOD Building Better Boards 2015 – Minerva Suite
24 – 26
The Cosmetics Association Christmas Trade Fair –
7
Thompson Insurances Meeting – Merrion Room
7 – 24/7
‘Pianissimo: over a century of classical music at the
Hall 1 25
Members’ Event: Visit to the Kildare Village Retail
27
Ballsbridge College of Further Education Graduation
RDS’ – RDS Library 8
Pianissimo: over a century of classical music at the RDS.
Outlet
Four talks by Ian Fox (1 of 4) – 12.00pm to 1.15pm – Members’ Club 8
9
10 – 20
Page 10
Fine Art Auction – Hall 6
– RDS Concert Hall 29
Pianissimo: over a century of classical music at the RDS.
Guinness PRO12: Leinster Rugby v Benetton Treviso –
Four talks by Ian Fox (3 of 4) – 12.00pm to
Arena
1.15pm – Members’ Club
Edward Elgar, ‘The Apostles’, Presented by The Guinness Choir – RDS Concert Hall
JUNE
Accounting Technicians Ireland exams – Hall 4
3–4
April 2015
RCSI Conferring Ceremonies – Hall 1
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Calendar of events
Minerva
RDS
Remember to come to your Members’ Club when attending events at the RDS. Phone 01 668 9244 to book.
4
SCR Programme for Jigsaw Pre-School Darndale –
3
Dublin Aviation Air Ball – Hall 6 5
Members’ Club
Pianissimo: over a century of classical music at the RDS.
8–9
Allsop Space Property Auctions – RDS Concert Hall
Four talks by Ian Fox (4 of 4) – 12.00pm to 1.15pm
9
RDS Members’ Evening Race Meeting at
– Members’ Club 5
5
RDS Members’ event: Evening Dining – 6.30pm –
Leopardstown.
RDS Members’ event: Evening Dining – 6.30pm –
17
Members’ Event: A Day with Jim Bolger at Coolcullen
Members’ Club
31 – 1/8
Rock ‘n’ Roll Dublin Half Marathon Registration – Hall 3
Members’ Event: Visit to Stormont and Hillsborough with John Holohan (fully booked at
AUGUST
time of going to press)
5–9
5–6
CFA Institute Exams – Hall 1
7
9 – 30
Food Biosciences Conference – RDS Concert Hall
9 – 10
gradireland Summer Fair – Hall 3
11
Irish Funds Industry Association Meeting and Gala
12
Intensive Care Medicine Society – RDS Concert Hall
13
CoderDojo Foundation – Hall 1
SEPTEMBER
16
National Construction Summit –
4
RDS Members’ event: Evening Dining – 6.30pm –
21
Bridge Classes with Peter Pigot (1 of 10) – 2.30pm to
Dinner – RDS Concert Hall
RIGPA Ireland – RDS Concert Hall
19
Meetings by Design – RDS Concert Hall
20 – 28
Dance Expo – Hall 8C
21 – 26
CAP 2 summer exams – Hall 1
26 – 27
Members’ Event: Attendance at the Boyle
28
National Charismatic Conference 2015 –
29 – 3/7
FAE Mock 2015 Exams – Hall 1
RDS Concert Hall
29 – 30
MCM Ireland Comic Con – Hall 8C
Members’ Club
4.30pm – Members’ Club 21
Improvers’ Computer Classes withi Deirdra Pickering, 10.45am - 12.15pm, Members' Club, 1 of 5.
28
Bridge Classes with Peter Pigot (2 of 10) – 2.30pm to 4.30pm – Members’ Club
28
Improvers’ Computer Classes with Deirdra Pickering, 10.45am - 12.15pm, Members’ Club, 2 of 5
RDS Bridge playing happens every Wednesday in the Library at 7:15pm. Members will be notified of any exceptions to this.
JULY 2
RCSI Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland – Thomas Prior Room
Summer School 27 – 28
RDS Members’ event: Evening Dining – 6.30pm – Members’ Club
RDS Concert Hall 18
The Dublin Horse Show
Ecocem Ireland Ltd – RDS Concert Hall
April 2015
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RDS
Minerva
Feature
A lasting arts legacy Born 100 years ago, Robin Lewis-Crosby was a distinguished Member and President of the RDS, and bequeathed a legacy to the Society that still remains.
A
chartered accountant by training and a partner in Stokes Kennedy Crowley, Robin Lewis-Crosby had a busy professional life, which involved many directorships,
including deputy Governor of the Bank of Ireland. Happily married to his wife Peggy, who predeceased him, he was also a distinguished lay member of the Church of Ireland and Lay Canon of St Patrick’s Cathedral, Armagh. As his centenary anniversary approaches, his son Antony Lewis-Crosby remembers him here and reflects on his contribution to the RDS, a Society he participated in at many levels. His lasting legacy is the RC Lewis-Crosby prize for painting, which he established and funded when chairman of the Taylor Art Trust, and to which he made an endowment to ensure its continuation after his death.
DEDICATION TO THE RDS Robin Lewis-Crosby presented with his Honorary Life Membership by then RDS President Michael Jacob, 2004
Knowing the joy this gave his father, and now his family, who remain closely involved, Antony Lewis-Crosby encourages other
this traditional skill was not being reflected sufficiently in the
members to consider remembering the RDS in this way and
student entries at the time.”
ensuring the Society’s continued contribution to future generations.
An enduring legacy Distinguished service
“He was also determined that the RC Lewis-Crosby prize should not
“Before my father died in 2008, he made it quite clear that two
cease when he died, and in his will he endowed a sum to be managed
parts of his life should be stressed at his funeral. Firstly, it was the
by the RDS for the RDS Student Art Awards and to ensure that the
Military Cross that he was awarded in the Second World War for
prize would continue. My sisters and I are delighted to work with the
distinguished service in the Royal Artillery in the Middle East, Italy
RDS to ensure that this legacy is maintained and developed, to the
and the Netherlands.
benefit of the RDS and of art students across the whole of Ireland.
Secondly, it was his distinguished service to the RDS, which took
There are many members of the RDS with similar dedication to the
various forms and was a large part of his life for 60 years. Despite a
Society and its aims and objectives, and it would give me great
busy professional life as a chartered accountant and as Deputy
pleasure to think that my father's example might spur someone else to
Governor of the Bank of Ireland, he served on several committees
consider leaving something in their will to ensure that the RDS can
and on the Council. He enjoyed his appointment, through the
continue to thrive into the future.
RDS, to serve on the Board of the National Gallery and the Alfred
We have been very happy with how the RDS has expertly managed
Beit Foundation. But he was immensely proud and honoured to be
the Fund bequeathed by my father, so what could be a better way,
elected to be President of the RDS and he served for three years
after looking after family and friends, to provide for the long-term
from 1983 to 1986 at a time of great change. In 2004 he was
future of the work of the RDS?”
further honoured with Honorary Life Membership of the Society. The arts were always a key part of his life and he served as a Trustee
Antony Lewis-Crosby
on the Taylor Arts Trust for over 50 years. That, of course, meant
Chairman, Taylor Art Trust, and RDS Member
that he took a deep interest in the RDS Student Art Awards and decided, a few years before he died, to create an award in his name –
For further information on legacies, contact Criona Cullen on
the RC Lewis-Crosby prize – particularly for painting, as he felt that
01 668 0866, or via email at Criona@rds.ie.
Page 12
April 2015
Minerva_April_2015__Layout 1 27/03/2015 15:34 Page 13
Feature
Minerva
RDS
Reaching New Heights ANN-MARIE HARDIMAN spoke to RDS Deputy CEO Pat Hanly about the Society’s role in the recently published Irish Sport Horse Industry Strategy.
T
he aim of the Strategy is to have, by 2025, “a horse sport
sector utilising the most sophisticated science and skills to breed and produce horses of the highest international
standards,” and to “develop our young people as breeders, producers and the international competitors of the future, and increase participation in all aspects of the sport”. Under the auspices of Horse Sport Ireland and its Chairman Pat Wall, an Honorary Life Member of the RDS, Horse Sport Ireland, the RDS and Teagasc came together to prepare this report, drawing on each organisation’s expertise, and that of a number of other specialists. The Strategy made a number of recommendations regarding breeding, education and training, and marketing, and the RDS, through the Equestrian Committee in particular, has a role to play in a number of key areas, as Pat Hanly explains.
HORSE SPORT STRATEGY LAUNCHED Simon Coveney TD, Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine (third left) with (from left): Comdt. Brian MacSweeney, Officer Commanding at the Army Equitation School; Prof. Pat Wall, Horse Sport Ireland Chairman; Prof. Cathal O'Donoghue, Chairman, Sport Horse Strategy Committee; Pat Hanly, Deputy CEO, RDS; and, Commodore Mark Mellett, at the Army Equitation School.
Role of the RDS “Competition drives behaviour, and we are the biggest organiser of
hugely with the RDS as an educational body. “We would love to play a
competitions in the country, so we are looking at our competitions to
role in terms of the development of a national education pathway
ensure that they are consistent with the strategy,” he explains.
(NEP), as described in the report. Everyone in the sport horse sector
The Society has also embarked on a major three-year research project.
would have an involvement in that: it wouldn’t matter if you are in
Marcus O’Donnell has begun to research Irish competition pedigrees,
showjumping or eventing, your base qualification would come from
with the aim of developing a mare book identifying the best of
the NEP. In equestrianism, we have more things in common than
Ireland's sport horses. “This could potentially have a huge impact,”
there are differences, but we are repeating material in terms of course
according to Pat. “Unfortunately, our genetic base is in decline –
delivery across the different organisations, and not getting to the level
that’s why it’s so important that the genetically superior mares we do
of competence we should.”
have are bred correctly so we have another generation of horses that could potentially go to the top.”
What’s next?
The RDS has also campaigned long and hard for a national federation
Now that the report has been completed, each organisation is lining
with direct membership for horses and riders, and the Equestrian
up its activities to be consistent with the strategy, while awaiting a
Committee welcomes the inclusion in the report of a recommendation
ministerial decision to establish an implementation body. One of the
that such a federation should be established. “There is currently no
principal recommendations was for a structural review of the industry,
overall structure. There are many different organisations – for
and the Equestrian Committee hopes that this is imminent. In the
showjumping, eventing, and so forth – and all of those organisations
meantime, with its research project into the genetics of the Irish sport
have their own rules and classes for particular horses, based on the
horse, ongoing work to adapt competition criteria to fit the strategy
individual needs of that particular sport and membership. The focus is
recommendations, and strong input into educational development, the
on each individual sport instead of an industry-wide focus on
RDS will do its part to implement the strategy, and continue to play a
maximising the value of the animals that we have.”
pivotal role in the sport horse industry in Ireland.
An important element of the strategy is a focus on the education and
“We have seen plans in the equestrian sector before. To make this
development of young riders and young horses, and that resonates
successful we now have to focus on delivery.”
April 2015
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RDS
Minerva
Members’ Club
Dublin Horse Show hospitality
DUBLIN HORSE SHOW Be sure to enjoy the benefits of the RDS Members’ Club during the week of the Show.
THOMAS PRIOR ROOM Enjoy the hospitality of the RDS Members’ Club during Horse Show week, with a range of meeting and dining options available.
It may seem early to be
forward to welcoming all our
Club is open from 9.00am until
the course. The bar is open
thinking of August, but we find
Members coming from
7.00pm each day, and until
from 11.00am each day until
that the Horse Show always
overseas and those from less
6.00pm on Sunday, and if you
30 minutes after the end of the
comes around sooner than
far afield.
feel like heading into the ‘great
final event. Do remember that
expected. This year the Horse
It’s a time when familiar faces
outdoors’, you can make your
your membership card is
Show runs from Wednesday,
return to relish the stylish
way to the Members’ Bar at
required to gain entry.
August 5 until Sunday, August
ambience and atmosphere of
the Main Arena for more
In addition, a range of dining
9. Once again, we look
the RDS Members’ Club. The
hospitality directly overlooking
options are available.
Open the door to reciprocal clubs Were you skiiing in Switzerland
premier venues for the Swiss
this winter? Or does business
economic, political, art and
take you through or to Zurich?
cultural crowds. Good food is
Club zum Rennweg is one of
assured, with lunch and dinner
the RDS’ reciprocal clubs and
on offer. Regular evening
is delighted to host RDS
events with speakers from
Members when they are in
Switzerland and abroad take
Switzerland. Perfectly located
place with Members and
in the old town of Zurich, just
guests keen to contribute.
a stone's throw from the
Facilities include the Club
famous Bahnhofstrasse (corner
restaurant and bar, the private
Rennweg and Fortunagasse),
Circle Room restaurant, and
all you need is a letter of
conference facilities.
LUXURY IN THE ALPS RDS Members can sample the luxurious surroundings of Club zum Rennweg in Zurich.
introduction from the RDS to gain access to this exclusive
Opening hours
Members of the RDS must
RDS. Please contact
private club.
Monday to Friday:
present their valid
members@rds.ie or call
Club zum Rennweg prides
11:30am to 11.00pm
membership card and an
01 240 7296 for a letter of
itself on being one of the
Saturday and Sunday: Closed
introduction letter from the
introduction.
Page 14 April 2015
Minerva_April_2015__Layout 1 27/03/2015 15:34 Page 15
Members’ Club
Minerva
RDS
Members’ events celebrate Library anniversary
SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE Members’ events this spring and summer will include a visit to Stormont, and an evening at Leopardstown races.
This year the current RDS
talks between May 8 and June 5
Boyle Summer School.
two powerful names in Irish
Library building celebrates its
in the Library. Upcoming events
The visit to the Stormont
racing. If you fancy an evening
50th anniversary, having been
also include a visit to Gurteen
Assembly Buildings and
at the races, then check out our
opened by President Eamon de
College, where students are
Hillsborough is fully booked at
Leopardstown race evening.
Valera in 1965. As part of the
nurtured in an environment of
time of going to press. Dazzled
For information on Members’
celebrations, Ian Fox will
agri-science and tradition. If
by the world of horse racing?
events, please contact the
recount the story of the RDS
you are fascinated by things
Then join us on July 17 in
Membership team on 01 240
Concert Hall, which also served
more directly scientific, then
Kildangan Stud, Co. Kildare,
7296, or via email at
as the Library until 1964, in four
come with us to Lismore for the
and Coolcullen, Co. Carlow –
members@rds.ie.
Robert Boyle Summer School
Take a class!
RDS Members are invited to
n B&B at Lismore House Hotel;
Members’ classes resume in
wish to improve their skills
attend the prestigious Robert
the autumn with Peter Pigot
on their own personal
Boyle Summer School from
taking improvers’ bridge
devices such as iPads and
Friday, June 26 to Sunday, June
and Saturday; and,
classes, Sylvia Fleming of the
tablets. All classes provide
28, 2015. Members will travel
n a voucher for the Friday
Fitness League leading her
Members with opportunities
from Dublin to Thurles by train,
ladies to increased fitness,
to improve particular skills
with coach transfers to and
Members discovering artistic
and enjoy some downtime
from Lismore.
flair in art classes, Sally
relaxing in each other’s
Dawson hosting an afternoon
company either before or
Costs of this event are to be
bridge game and a new
after their class. Members’
confirmed, but will include:
addition: computer classes
events and classes require
n return coach transfer from
with teacher Deirdra
advanced booking and are
Thurles train station to
contact Susan Cox on 01 240
Pickering. These computer
open to non-Member guests
Lismore on Friday and
7296, or via email at
classes will serve those who
unless otherwise specified.
return on Sunday;
susan@rds.ie.
n tickets for talks on Friday
night BBQ. Lunches and dinner on Saturday are not included (dinner is an optional extra). For further information,
April 2015
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RDS
Minerva
Review
RDS developments MICHAEL DUFFY reports on the plans for the Main Arena and the busy schedule of activity in the Society.
F
ollowing an international design competition, a jury appointed by the Society under the chairmanship of Professor Owen Lewis, selected architectural partners for the redevelopment of
the Main Arena. The successful entry was a consortium of architect firms, Dublin-based Newenham Mulligan Architects and London-based Grimshaw Architects. The jury was unanimous in their selection of the Newenham Mulligan/Grimshaw entry. Their winning concept represents an exciting design response to a complex brief. Entries had to accommodate professional rugby, world-class equestrianism and music concerts, in an already very busy events venue. These three elements were exceptionally well incorporated by the winning consortium, which stood out for its understanding of the multi-faceted nature of
MAJOR PLANS FOR THE RDS A front view of the proposed new stand for the Main Arena.
the development and vision for the RDS Arena. The Society now enters a phase of discussion with interested parties
underway, while our commercial events at the RDS are well booked
including our own Equestrian Committee, Leinster Rugby, caterers,
for this year. Our philanthropic work continues to grow successfully,
retailers, and supporters to finalise the design. Once that process is
increasing our impact in the arts, agriculture, industry and science, and
complete, a detailed cost for the project can be finalised. That will
you can read more about our work in this edition of Minerva.
allow the Society to proceed to the funding and planning permission
As a consequence of all of the above, the officers, committees,
stages, which are anticipated to take until mid-2016.
Members and staff have been working very hard to ensure that the
Funding will be sought primarily from three streams: the Society’s own
Society makes progress on all fronts.
resources; sponsorship; and, Government support. The Society will be solely responsible for sourcing the funding and the project
Survey of Members
management phase of the development, the Main Arena being one of
Some of you may have spoken to the market research company Red C
the prime assets of the RDS.
in late 2014. The survey results will give us a better insight into
If the funding and planning permission phases progress as envisaged,
Members’ interaction with the Society, including important issues such
construction on the new stand would commence after the Horse Show
as: communications with Members; Members’ participation; the
in 2016. Time taken to construct the Arena is likely to be around 18
mission of the Society; and, the Society’s work programme.
months. Planning is proceeding, taking into account Leinster Rugby’s
We have gained valuable information and will inform Members of the
desire to continue to play their home matches at the RDS during
findings after we have presented the results to Council. Thank you to
construction.
all who gave their time to participate.
The developments in the Main Arena (which would increase the capacity from 18,000 to 26,000) are in addition to a very busy agenda elsewhere for the Society. The existing planning permission for the second phase of office development (valid to 2019) will need to be amended to reflect the new market conditions. If this is approved, plans will be considered for this €40 million project. The first office block has been a notable success.
Chief Executive,
Naturally, our work on the 2015 Dublin Horse Show is already well
April 2015.
Page 16 April 2015