Minerva_Dec_2011_Layout 1 01/12/2011 14:19 Page 1
ISSUE NO. 21 DECEMBER 2011
Minerva Magazine for Members of the Royal Dublin Society
BOYLE MEDAL Winner of the 2011 RDS Irish Times Boyle Medal for Scientific Excellence, Professor Margaret Murnane
THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING YOUR SOCIETY THROUGH YOUR SUBSCRIPTION, USING THE MEMBERS’ CLUB AND YOUR INVOLVEMENT IN OUR ACTIVITIES
Minerva_Dec_2011_Layout 1 01/12/2011 14:19 Page 2
RDS
Minerva
Editorial
Minerva
Welcome to the winter edition of Minerva FONSIE MEALY RDS PRESIDENT DECEMBER 2011
ISSUE NO. 21 DECEMBER 2011
EDITOR JP Montgomery
CONTRIBUTORS Eileen Byrne Susan Cox Paul Farrelly Ann-Marie Hardiman Claire Mulhall JP Montgomery Paul O’Grady Orla Purcell Joanna Quinn Sarah Ross Karen Sheeran Gerard Whelan
Christmas is fast approaching and my first year
approved by the Council in 2010, has begun.
as President of the Society is drawing to a
The Foundation Board has been set up and its
close. It has been a very enjoyable but
main project currently is the drafting of the
challenging year. The economic situation has
Foundation Plan. The new Membership
had its impact on us all but, through the
Committee of Council will commence
endeavours of our committees and staff, the
operations in 2012. These and other initiatives
ROYAL DUBLIN SOCIETY Ballsbridge Dublin 4 T: 01 668 0866 F: 01 660 4014 www.rds.ie
Society has provided a varied and stimulating
will greatly increase the focus on the Society’s
programme of Foundation and Membership
Foundation objectives and activities.
events over the past 12 months.
Events to look forward to this month include a
I have particularly enjoyed meeting Members
performance by the Irish Chamber Orchestra
www.facebook.com/RDSdublin www.facebook.com/dublinhorseshow www.twitter.com/theRDS
from outside Dublin at special Members’
on December 17, the Christmas Carol Concert
events at the Balmoral Show and at Ballymaloe
with Proinnsías Ó Duinn and Our Lady’s Choral
Minerva: General: RDS Foundation: RDS Membership:
House. These events have proven to be an
Society on December 18, and the Christmas
excellent way for Members from a particular
Eve Lunch in the Members’ Club.
region to meet one another and share their
I hope 2012 will be a better year for the
views on the RDS.
country and I wish you and yours a very Happy
The implementation of the Strategic Plan,
Christmas and a peaceful New Year.
DESIGN AND PRODUCTION Sub-editing and layout Think Media Ltd. Tel: 01 856 1166 www.thinkmedia.ie Print
Dual Printing
Distribution
Sooner Than Later
minerva@rds.ie info@rds.ie foundation@rds.ie members@rds.ie
Contents 3
December 2011
Membership Supporting the RDS Members’ Club
10 Editorial feature A family affair
Horse Show 2012 – a perfect gift
12 Calendar of events
www.rds.ie
4
Awards Top laser scientist awarded Boyle Medal Green-fingered allotment holders honoured
Minerva, the magazine for Members of the Royal Dublin Society is published tri-annually.
publication may be reproduced or distributed without prior written permission.
7
Events RDS Rising Stars 2012 Spring Recital Series RDS Speaker Series
Page 2
December 2011
Restoring our treasures RDS Art Fair 2011
Any views expressed are not those necessarily held by the RDS or its Council. No part of this
14 Pictorial feature
16 CEO’s review of the year Building on strong foundations
Minerva_Dec_2011_Layout 1 01/12/2011 14:19 Page 3
Membership
Supporting the RDS Members’ Club The RDS Members’ Club
particularly drawn to First
team continues to work hard
Friday Dining, which has
to ensure the maximum
been re-introduced at a
enjoyment for Members and
reduced price of €34.50 for a
their guests. As Members can
three-course table d’hôte
now avail of a 10% discount
dinner. Members are
when paying for food and
reminded that they can use
beverages or room hire with
their 2011 food and beverage
their membership card, the
credit until December 24. All
Members’ Club continues to
dining can be booked directly
provide excellent value for
with the Members’ Club on
money. Your attention is
01 668 9244.
Important reminder to Members
Minerva
RDS
Horse Show 2012 – a perfect gift
Looking for the perfect gift this
missed! Plus, the RDS National
Christmas? Why not purchase
Crafts and Student Art Award
tickets for the 2012 Dublin
Winners Exhibition will be held
Horse Show?
during the Show. With so much
From the best in national and
on offer the Show really has
Members due to renew their
Upon receipt of payment in
international equestrian
something for everyone!
Membership in 2012 will
full, Members’ cards will be
competitions to shopping,
The 2012 Dublin Horse Show
shortly receive a renewal
validated for use in 2012 and
children’s entertainment and
online ticket booking is now
notice from the RDS.
a car park sticker and receipt
music, and Blossom Hill Ladies’
available on www.dublin
As Membership subscriptions
will be issued. Members not
Day on August 16, the 2012
horseshow.com, or book tickets
are an essential source of
due to renew in 2012 are
Horse Show, which runs from
from the Membership Desk,
income to the Society, your
asked to contact the
August 15-19, is one event
RDS Members’ Club, on
co-operation in prompt
Membership Desk on 01 240
next summer that is not to be
01 240 7296.
payment is much
7296 to receive their car
appreciated.
park sticker.
The Gift of Membership Reaching out to Members beyond Dublin
Membership of the RDS makes a truly special Christmas gift for friends and family.
n free access to the Dublin Horse Show; and, n an opportunity to support
Members can avail of some of
the Society’s Foundation Programme.
2011 saw a major initiative to
Munster-based Members. For
the many benefits of the
engage with Members
2012 the President plans to
Society, including:
outside Dublin. RDS President
host similar events in Galway
n use of the Members’ Club
Fonsie Mealy hosted a
in February, and in the
Members’ Breakfast at the
midlands in September.
n car parking;
Christmas should contact the
Balmoral Show in Belfast, and
Please enquire through the
n reciprocal clubs;
Membership Development
travelled to Ballymaloe in
Membership Desk if you wish
n networking events, recitals
Executive, Orla Purcell, on
Cork to host a lunch for
to attend one of these events.
and Library;
and concerts;
Members considering offering Membership as a gift this
01 240 7280.
December 2011
Page 3
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RDS
Minerva Awards
Top laser scientist awarded Boyle Medal
MEDAL WINNER Professor Margaret Murnane receives the RDS Boyle Medal from RDS President Fonsie Mealy (left), and Irish Times Editor Kevin O’Sullivan.
DISTINGUISHED IRISH SCIENTIST Professor Margaret Murnane with her husband, Henry Kapteyn.
Margaret Murnane,
awarded biennially –
Murnane said: “I am deeply
significant contribution to laser
Distinguished Professor at the
alternating between a scientist
grateful to be honoured with
and x-ray science. Not only is
University of Colorado at
based in Ireland and an Irish
this award. I am certain that I
her fundamental research
Boulder, in the United States,
scientist based abroad. This
would not be where I am
groundbreaking in itself, the
was conferred with the
year’s award celebrates the
today without the love for
application of her work has the
prestigious RDS Irish Times
work of an Irish researcher
learning instilled through the
potential to make a significant
Boyle Medal for Scientific
working outside Ireland and
strong education I received in
impact across virtually all
Excellence at an award
carries with it a cash prize of
Ireland. It is undoubtedly this
scientific and medical
ceremony in the RDS Concert
€20,000.
foundation which has given
disciplines”.
Hall on November 29, in
Professor Murnane’s work has
me the confidence to go out
The call for nominations for
recognition of her pioneering
focused on the development of
and put my stamp on the
the 2013 Boyle Medal, which
work, which has transformed
lasers that can operate at the
world. It makes it even more
will be awarded to a scientist
the field of ultra-fast laser and
fundamental limits of speed
significant to learn that I am
or pure mathematician
x-ray science.
and stability. She designed the
only the second female Boyle
ordinarily resident in Ireland,
Inaugurated in 1899, the Boyle
world’s fastest lasers, which
Medal Laureate in the
will go out in late 2012. For
Medal continues to recognise
allow time almost to be halted
Medal’s history”. Professor
further information, please
scientific research of
to capture a freeze-frame view
Murnane was born in
contact Karen Sheeran on 01
exceptional merit and since its
of the world. She has also
Limerick and is a graduate of
240 7289 or via email at
inception has been awarded to
developed a tabletop x-ray
University College Cork.
karen.sheeran@rds.ie, or visit
38 distinguished scientists. In
laser using very short laser
The 2011 RDS Irish Times Boyle
www.rds.ie/boylemedal. To
1999 the awarding of the
pulses to generate coherent
Medal International Judging
view a webcast of Professor
Boyle Medal became a joint
beams of x-rays.
Panel said: “Margaret Murnane
Murnane’s public lecture,
venture between the RDS and
Upon hearing the news that
is an international leader in her
please visit
The Irish Times. It is now
she had won, Professor
field and has made a
www.rds.ie/webcasts.
Page 4
December 2011
Minerva_Dec_2011_Layout 1 01/12/2011 14:19 Page 5
Awards
Call for nominations
Minerva
RDS
Fire, water and fizzy fun!
The RDS is currently accepting nominations for the 2012 RDS Gold Medal for
The 2011 RDS Science Live
Industry and Commerce. The
series has seen another
Gold Medal is one of the
successful year. In June,
Society’s flagship awards. To
bursaries were awarded to
be nominated the individual
science and maths
must have shown
educators around the
considerable professional and
country to develop exciting,
leadership skills, and have an
interactive workshops.
outstanding track record in
Since September these
business achievement, which
workshops have been taking
has contributed to
place across Ireland and
employment and economic
have been engaging
development in Ireland. Since its inception, the Medal has been awarded to many of
students and teachers in PRESTIGIOUS AWARD 2008 RDS Gold Medal recipient Kieran McGowan of the IDA.
Ireland’s most prominent
hands-on, practical science and maths challenges. The call for applications to
business people, including:
IDA; and, Dr Bernard Collins
information, please see
the 2012 bursary fund will
Dr Peter Sutherland; Dr
of VHI Healthcare.
www.rds.ie/goldmedal, or
go out in February – see
Michael Smurfit; Sir Anthony
The closing date for
contact Paul Farrelly on 01
www.rds.ie/sciencelive for
O’Reilly; Dr Craig Barrett of
nominations is Tuesday,
240 7215 or via email at
more details.
Intel; Kieran McGowan of the
January 10, 2012. For further
industry@rds.ie.
Inaugural winner of RDS/Intel Prize Lecture for Nanoscience Professor Michael Coey of
of a pin. These tiny magnets
significant achievements
Trinity College Dublin has
are radically transforming
being made by Irish scientists
been awarded the inaugural
science and industry in
and scientists based in Ireland
RDS/Intel Prize Lecture for
Ireland, and will lead to the
in the field of nanoscience.
Nanoscience. Professor Coey
development of faster,
A webcast of Professor Coey’s
and his team are creating
smaller and more powerful
public lecture, entitled ‘Tales
magnets that are one million
computer and electronic
from the Nanoworld – billions
times smaller than the head
devices in the future.
of magnets for billons of
The RDS/Intel Prize Lecture
people’ is available to view on
for Nanoscience was
www.rds.ie/webcasts. For
established by the RDS in
further details of the 2012
partnership with Intel Ireland
award, please visit
in recognition of the
www.rds.ie/nanoscience.
NANO PRIZE Recipient of the inaugural RDS/Intel Prize Lecture for Nanoscience, Professor Michael Coey of TCD.
December 2011
Page 5
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RDS
Minerva Awards
2011 RDS–Forest Service Irish Forestry Awards
FARM FORESTRY AWARD WINNERS Patrick and Catherine Murphy with Minister of State Shane McEntee TD (right).
Green-fingered allotment holders honoured
ALLOTMENT AWARD WINNERS From left: RDS Novice Gardener Award Winners Jim Spain and Sean De Barra; RDS Allotment Provider Award Winner Maurice Patton; and, John Warren, winner of the RDS Experienced Gardener Award.
With a total prize fund of over
O’Loughlin and Catherine
The RDS–Forest Service Irish
went to Jack Tenison of
€3,000, the RDS Allotment
O’Shea of Pearse College
Forestry Awards, which seek
Lough Bawn, Castleblaney,
Awards recognise the hard
Allotments, Dublin, and Bernie
to promote excellence in
Co. Monaghan. The forest at
work, dedication and attention
Duggan and Etta Dalton
timber production for
Lough Bawn forms part of a
to detail of those involved in
of Piltown Allotments,
commercial use and to
historic demesne that has
allotment gardening.
Co. Kilkenny.
encourage diverse forest
been occupied since the late
The winner of this year’s
In the Experienced Gardener
habitats for ecological benefit,
16th Century. Jack has
Allotment Provider Award, a
category, first place, a cheque
were presented this year by
demonstrated great
cheque for €1,000 and an RDS
for €500 and an RDS Silver
Minister of State at the
individual commitment to
Silver Medal, was Ards
Medal went to John Warren of
Department of Agriculture,
biodiversity while at the same
Allotments, Co. Down, owned
Malahide, Co. Dublin. Runner-
Food and the Marine, Shane
time generating income from
by Maurice and Judith Patton.
up and recipient of an RDS
McEntee TD.
forestry, demonstrating that
The judging panel commended
Certificate of Merit and a
The winner of this year’s Farm
environmental and economic
Maurice and Judith for their
cheque for €300 was Helen
Forestry Award was Michael
objectives can be compatible.
work on the overall site, as well
Hume of Ards Allotments, Co.
Murphy from Clonmel, Co.
The winner of this year’s
as their support for growers.
Down. Third place and a
Tipperary. Great commitment
Judges’ Special Award was
The winners of the Novice
cheque for €200 went to
has been shown by Michael
John Jackson of Co. Donegal.
Gardener Award, a cheque for
Zwena McCullough of Hydro
and his son Patrick in their
John has made a very
€500 and an RDS Silver Medal,
Farm, Co. Cork. In addition to
work; the plantation has been
significant contribution to
were Jim Spain and Sean De
the two award categories, a
well integrated into the local
farm forestry both on a
Barra, of Rathbeggan Lakes
Judges’ Special Award was
landscape and every effort has
national basis and in
Allotments, Co. Meath. Second
presented to George Kenny, of
been made to accommodate
particular in his native
place, an RDS Certificate of
Pearse College Allotments.
wildlife and biodiversity.
Donegal since he first became
Merit and a cheque for €300
George’s passionate interest in
The Bio-Diverse
involved in forestry in the
went to Helena Kessie of Fingal
horticulture, and generosity in
Forestry/Woodlands Award
early 1990s.
Allotments, Co. Dublin. Third
sharing his expertise, has been
place was shared by Deborah
an inspiration to all.
Page 6
December 2011
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Events
Minerva
RDS
Supported by Members. Where are they now…? In 2012 the Society will
London. She sang the lead
with the highest honours for
celebrate the 10th anniversary
(Lauretta) in Puccini’s Gianni
saxophone from his studies in
of the RDS Music Bursary
Schicci at the Royal Opera
Paris. He also won the
Award, so we decided to have
Covent Garden in September.
premiere prix of his graduating
a look at a selection of the
Violinist Maria Ryan was the
saxophone class, the Medaille
previous winners to see where
winner of the coveted
d’Or and the Medaille d’Or
they are now.
Heineken Violin Competition in
l’Unanimite in chamber music.
Redmond O’Toole was the
2010. She is currently based in
Our most recent winners,
inaugural winner in 2003 and
London, where she was
Joseph Ryan and Roisin
today he continues his
appointed to the prestigious
Walters, continue their studies
professional performance
position of leader of the
and we wait with anticipation
career on the ‘Brahms guitar’.
Southbank Sinfonia for the
to see where their careers will
Anna Devin won in 2007 and is
2010 season. In 2009,
take them. The 2012 RDS
now a member of the Jette
saxophonist Patrick Hughes
Music Bursary will take place in
Parker Young Artist Programme
won the award and continued
April; further details will follow
at the Royal Opera House,
his studies, graduating in 2011
in due course.
RDS Rising Stars 2012 Spring Recital Series
BURSARY WINNER Violinist Roisin Walters was the winner of the 2011 RDS Music Bursary.
2012 – a look ahead The Members’ programme for 2012 promises a wide variety
first come, first served basis. n The annual Members’
The RDS Rising Stars Spring
association with the Dublin
of activities:
Cultural Trip overseas will see
Recital Series will commence in
International Piano
n The RDS Members’ Day at
Members travel to Budapest
February 2012. Taking place
Competition and will feature
Punchestown will take place
on Mondays in the RDS
the Irish entrants in the
on Wednesday April 25,
Concert Hall at 1.00pm, each
Competition. To see the best
costing €130 per person
Programme will feature
hour-long event is free of
of Ireland’s upcoming musical
including transport by
heritage trips, the
charge and no advance
talent, mark February 13, 20
luxury coach, VIP access to
annual outing
booking is required.
and 27, and March 5, in your
Punchestown Racecourse,
to the
This series of recitals will run in
2012 diaries.
race cards, four-course
Wexford
buffet lunch, and much
Opera Festival,
more. This event books out
and trips to the
well in advance and places
ballet, theatre
are allocated on a strictly
and opera.
Bridge at the RDS
for four nights in May. n The Members’ Cultural
Classes for intermediate
contact Susan Cox on 01
players will commence on
240 7296, or via email at
Monday, January 23 at
members@rds.ie to book.
10.30am, and beginners’
Afternoon bridge playing will
classes will start on the same
recommence on Tuesday,
Joining the Fitness League
active will increase long-term
day at 2.30pm. Courses are
January 24 at 2.30pm and
Active Retired Class will
independence.
subject to numbers and cost
evening bridge playing takes
improve overall health, boost
Please contact Susan Cox on
€80 for Members and €120
place in the Library every
energy levels and build
01 240 7296 for more
for non-Members. Please
Wednesday from 7.00pm.
confidence. Staying physically
information.
League of Health at the RDS
December 2011
Page 7
Minerva_Dec_2011_Layout 1 01/12/2011 14:19 Page 8
RDS
Minerva Events
RDS Speaker Series
Dr Marie Bourke
Dr John Bowman
David Davison
Kevin and Emer Rockett
Dr Marie Bourke – ‘The Story of Irish Museums 1790-2000’
Dr John Bowman – ‘Window and Mirror: RTÉ Television 1961-2011’
David Davison – ‘Fr Browne, From Titanic to Kangaroobie’
Kevin and Emer Rockett – ‘The Magic Lantern in Ireland’
February 29
March 7
April 11
April 18
Dr Bourke will discuss the
Dr Bowman, broadcaster and
Following the Titanic disaster,
Drawn from the recently
stories, histories and
historian, will talk about the
Fr Frank Browne SJ enjoyed
published Magic lantern,
evolution of Irish museums
subject of his recently
worldwide fame as his
panorama and moving picture
and galleries over the past
published book Window and
photographs of the first leg of
shows in Ireland, 1786-1909,
three centuries. What started
Mirror: RTÉ Television, 1961-
the fateful voyage were wired
this illustrated lecture will
as a ‘cabinet of curiosities’
2011.
around the globe. This
outline the history of the
that formed an important
Dr John Bowman has been a
presentation will include his
subject in Ireland, highlighting
asset in a gentleman’s home
Member of the RDS for 40
Titanic images, as well as a
its cultural role from the early
would become, in the new
years. His career in radio and
selection of his other work.
nineteenth century.
millennium, museums and
TV has covered a wide
David Davison is a professional
Kevin Rockett is a professor
galleries that are at once
spectrum of current affairs
photographer specialising in
of film studies in Trinity
virtual and physical spaces.
reportage including both
architecture and the fine arts.
College Dublin.
Dr Marie Bourke is Keeper
political and cultural aspects
He established the Course in
Emer Rockett has lectured on
and Head of Education at the
of contemporary Irish society.
Professional Photography at
and written about various
DIT, and is deeply interested in
aspects of visual culture.
National Gallery of Ireland.
the history of photography. All talks are held in the Minerva Suite at 6.00pm (unless otherwise stated). For bookings and information, please contact 01 240 7254, email: librarydesk@rds.ie, or log on to www.rds.ie/speakerseries.
The Big Bang – is it true?
Immunology lectures
The 2012 RDS Tyndall Lecture
Physics in Ireland, this lecture
On Friday, March 9 at
lectures will be on how our
‘Big Bang – is it true?’ will be
is suitable for students in
10.00am, the RDS in
body seeks and destroys
presented by Dr Cormac
transition year and above.
association with the Irish
invaders. Admission to this
O’Raifeartaigh from Waterford
Admission to this event is free
Society for Immunology will
event is €2 per student and
Institute of Technology on
but places must be booked in
host the annual morning of
places must be booked in
Thursday, February 2, at 12
advance. For further
immunology lectures for
advance. For further
noon and 2.00pm. Organised
information, please visit
those in transition year and
information, please visit
by the RDS and the Institute of
www.rds.ie/science.
above. The focus of the
www.rds.ie/science.
Page 8
December 2011
Minerva_Dec_2011_Layout 1 02/12/2011 11:59 Page 9
Events
Eucharistic Congress 2012 at the RDS The 50th International
diverse range of areas –
Eucharistic Congress will take
hospitality, media, transport,
place in Ireland from June 10
translation, logistics and
to 17, 2012. All of the events
stewards – to work for the week
during the week-long Congress
of the Congress, and to assist
(apart from the concluding
from now until June 2012.
Mass) will be held in the RDS,
If you are interested in
where the offices of Congress
volunteering, please check out
have been based since
the volunteer page on the
February 2011.
website, www.iec2012.ie, or
Some 25,000 people are
email volunteer@iec2012.ie. If
expected to attend, and the
you would like to attend the
Congress will need two to three
Congress you can book now on
thousand volunteers across a
www.iec2012.ie.
Primary science
EXCITING EXPERIMENTS A sixth-class student from Rathbeggan National School at the RDS Primary Science Fair.
Minerva
RDS
British–Irish Chamber at the RDS
BRITISH–IRISH CHAMBER From left: Simon McKeever, Director of Trade & Investment at the British Embassy; Paul Caplis, Head of Investment at the British Embassy; Michele Griffin, Commercial Director at the RDS; Feargal Naughton, President of the British–Irish Chamber; and, Peter Byrne, Interim Chief Executive at the British–Irish Chamber.
The RDS was founded nearly
Eamon Gilmore TD to coincide
three centuries ago by 14
with the historic visit of HM
Irishmen who came together
Queen Elizabeth II to Ireland in
to improve the economic
May 2011.
condition of the country by
The British–Irish Chamber of
promoting agriculture, arts,
Commerce is a not-for-profit
industry and science. Most
membership-based
recently the Society has
organisation, with the mission
supported the formation of
to use its activities to increase
the new British–Irish Chamber
British–Irish business and
of Commerce, which was
investments and be an
launched by the Right Hon.
effective voice for its members
William Hague MP and
and the British–Irish
Minister for Foreign Affairs
community as a whole.
The 2012 RDS Primary Science
Students from fourth, fifth and
Fair will take place from
six class in the Republic of
January 12-14, at the BT
Ireland and Key Stage 2 in
Young Scientist and
Northern Ireland will present
Technology Exhibition in the
their class projects with topics
The business networking
Executive of Goldman Sachs
RDS. The Fair is a key part of
including forensic science,
programme will continue in
Ireland and former Irish
the RDS Foundation
earthworms, the weather and
2012 in association with
international rugby player;
programme and provides an
even erupting volcanoes!
the British–Irish Chamber
Tony Carroll, Manager of
opportunity for 3,000
Entry tickets are available for
of Commerce.
Sustainability and Corporate
students from 120 primary
purchase on the door. For
Speakers will include:
Responsibility at ESB Electric
schools across Ireland to
further information, please
JP Donnelly, Chief Executive
Ireland; and, Giles O’Neill,
display their class science
visit www.rds.ie/
of Ogilvy Ireland;
Regional Director,
projects at a major exhibition.
primarysciencefair.
Hugo MacNeill, Chief
Enterprise Ireland.
Business networking at the RDS
December 2011
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RDS
Minerva
Feature
A family affair Membership of the RDS has a lot to offer. Minerva spoke to two families who are passing on the gift of Membership to the next generation.
F
rom its establishment almost three centuries ago, the RDS
Leaving Certificate, and is enthusiastic about how being able to use
has depended for the advancement of its Foundation
the Library to study helped him in his preparation for examinations.
activities on both the financial contribution of its
“The Library was very quiet and was open when school was
Members and on the time given by so many to service on
closed during the holidays,” he says. “It was also very
committees and participation in the Society’s activities. This
comfortable, and close to the shops!”
involvement carries on down the generations, as Members
These days George runs Irish Rugby Tours, a sports travel agency
encourage their families to become involved in turn, and it has
and tour operator, and finds his Membership of the Society
never been more important than now, when economic
extremely useful for his business. “We use the RDS for meetings,
circumstances and the volume of work required to implement the
parking, and of course proximity to Leinster matches.” He often
Society’s Strategic Plan are creating new challenges.
ties meals and meetings in with matches, and particularly appreciates the allocation of Members’ credits for food and
Ingrid and George Hook
beverages, which he finds very helpful.
Ingrid Hook first joined the RDS over 30 years ago. She was
Family connection has been important: “I would almost certainly
prompted to join by work considerations – she worked at the
not have joined if my mother had not been a Member”. He now
Royal Pharmaceutical Society’s headquarters on Shrewsbury Road
recommends Membership to friends, and one, a solicitor, has
and wished to have access to the RDS Library.
recently become a Member also.
“It was a case of convenience and location,” she says, and over the years she made use of the Library and dining facilities, and retained her Membership even when the Pharmaceutical Society moved premises. Throughout the following years, life and family responsibilities meant that she did not use the Society’s facilities as much as she would have liked, but she retained her Membership and was eventually able to use her skills in the Society’s service. “When retirement loomed, I took the chance to become more actively involved, and offered my services to the RDS Committee of Science and Technology.” When a vacancy arose on the Committee, she was happy to become involved and has been using her scientific background and administrative experience to good effect, working with the Committee to help develop its strategic framework for the next five years. Ingrid has also encouraged family members to become Members, taking Membership for her mother, and encouraging her son George to become involved. George has been a Member since he was a student studying for his
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December 2011
FAMILY CONNECTION Ingrid and George Hook Jnr.
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Feature
Minerva
RDS
Col Billy and Fergal Ringrose The name of Col Billy Ringrose will be a very familiar one to RDS Members. A Past President of the Society from 1998-2001, he is of course best known for his involvement with the Irish showjumping team, both as a prize-winning rider and as Chef d’Equipe of the legendary three-in-a-row Aga Khan Trophy winning team of the late 1970s. Col Ringrose first became involved with the RDS through the famous Irish Army Equitation School. He had come into contact with another eminent RDS Member, Judge Wylie, in McKee Barracks, and was nominated for Membership in 1976. In addition to his competitive involvement, Col Ringrose has also served on the Equestrian Committee. Although his time as an officer of the Society has come to an end, Col Ringrose still enjoys active Membership of the RDS. “I frequently attend lectures and use the Library,” he says. “I particularly like scientific events. There’s an extraordinary range
PAST PRESIDENT Colonel Billy Ringrose.
of activities and I go to anything that takes my fancy.” He mentions a recent talk featuring Irish rugby hero Jack Kyle as
Fergal first joined the RDS some years ago, but his membership
an event he particularly enjoyed.
lapsed while he lived abroad. He renewed his membership when
Col Ringrose has also passed his interest in the Society to his son
he returned to Ireland about 15 years ago. Fergal spends a great
Fergal, who is editor of Europe’s broadcast technology magazine
deal of time abroad for work, but he and his father attend rugby
TVB Europe. He too joined because of the strong family
matches together at the Aviva Stadium and go the RDS for pre-
connection. “My father was always keen for us to support the
rugby lunch beforehand. The Ringrose family also avail of the
Society.”
Members’ Club facilities for family events.
Christmas at the RDS Christmas Concert is held
dining in the Club. Finally, a
Christmas is always a very
team will provide a festive
special time at the RDS for
lunch from Monday to
on Sunday, December
special Christmas Eve Lunch is
Members, staff and their
Friday as usual, and on
18. The Irish Chamber
held from 12 noon on
families. It is a time when we
the first three Friday
look back and reflect upon the
nights of December
many achievements of the
for evening dining.
Society throughout the year
In addition, a
and celebrate the holiday at our
special
Saturday,
Dining Room. Members are
annual Members’ Christmas
Christmas lunch
December 17 –
advised to book well in
Concert. There is a wonderful
for Members
Members’ can
advance for all Christmas
atmosphere in the Members’
attending the
also book for
dining arrangements. Contact
Club, where Brian Kelly and his
Members’
pre-concert
Brian Kelly on 01 668 9244.
Orchestra performs a seasonal symphony of song in the RDS Concert Hall on
Christmas Eve, with Carols and mulled wine in the Library and three-course lunch followed by mince pies in the Members’
December 2011
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RDS
Minerva
Calendar of events
All information is correct at time
Remember to come to your
of going to print. Members
Members’ Club when attending
should telephone reception on
events at the RDS. Phone
01 240 7296 or visit www.rds.ie
01 668 9244 to book.
to verify dates, times and locations.
DECEMBER 30/11 – 4/12National Crafts and Design Fair – Hall 1 2 RDS Members’ Event: Evening Dining – 6.30pm – Members’ Club 2 Rabo Direct Pro 12: Leinster v Cardiff Blues – Main Arena 2–3 CFA Institute Examinations – Hall 8D 8 The Palestrina Choir – RDS Concert Hall 8 – 22 UCD Exams – Hall 1 9 RDS Members’ Event: Evening Dining – 6.30pm – Members’ Club 10 – 11 Hallelujah Chorus – Hall 8C 14 – 15 The Priests in Concert – RDS Concert Hall 16 RDS Members’ Event: Evening Dining – 6.30pm – Members’ Club 17 Irish Chamber Orchestra Pre-concert Supper – 5.00pm – Members’ Club 17 Irish Chamber Orchestra – Seasonal Symphony of Song – RDS Concert Hall 18 RDS Members’ Event: Pre-concert Lunch – 12 noon – Members’ Club 18 Members’ Christmas Concert – RDS Concert Hall 19 Music Solutions – RDS Concert Hall 24 RDS Members’ Event: Christmas Eve Family Lunch – 12 noon – Members’ Club 26 Rabo Direct Pro 12: Leinster v Ulster – Main Arena 26/12 – 10/1 Funderland – Hall 8C JANUARY 11 – 14 11
12 – 14 14 14 – 21
Page 12
BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition – Hall 1 Members’ outing to Little Women at the Gate Theatre and pre-theatre dinner – 5.00pm – Members’ Club RDS Primary Science Fair – 9.30am-5.30pm daily – Hall 3 Chartered Accountants Examinations – Hall 8C The Insurance Institute of Ireland Examinations – Hall 8D
December 2011
17
RDS Members’ Event: Top Twenty Piano Talk – 12 noon – Members’ Conference Room 20 – 22 Heineken Cup: Leinster v Montpellier – Main Arena 23 – 12/3 Intermediate Bridge Classes – 10.30am – Members’ Conference Room 23 – 12/3 Beginners Bridge Classes – 2.30.pm – Members’ Conference Room 24 RDS Members’ Event: Afternoon bridge playing – 2.30pm – Members’ Club 24 RDS Members’ Event: Top Twenty Piano Talk – 12 noon – Members’ Conference Room 25 RDS Business Breakfast: JP Donnelly, CEO of Ogilvy Ireland – 7.30am – Thomas Prior Room 27 Members’ Themed Dining – 6.00pm – Members’ Club 27 – 29 Holiday World – Hall 8C 28 The Guinness Choir with the RTÉ Concert Orchestra in Elijah – RDS Concert Hall 28 – 29 Bride of the Year Show – Hall 1 FEBRUARY 1 – 29 RDS Library Exhibition: ‘An Anatomical School in Cork – John Woodroffe and the Cork Anatomists’ – 10.00am-5.00pm (Monday to Friday) – RDS Library 2 Tyndall Lecture on Physics for Schools: The Big Bang – Is It True? – 12 noon and 2.00pm – RDS Concert Hall 3 RDS Members’ Event: Evening Dining – 6.30pm – Members’ Club 10 – 12 Rabo Direct Pro 12: Leinster v Benetton Treviso – Main Arena 11 Members’ outing to Rathsallagh and Russborough 11 Irish Chamber Orchestra – World Premiere – RDS Concert Hall 13 RDS Rising Stars Spring Recital Series – 1.00pm – RDS Concert Hall
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Calendar of events
Minerva
RDS
Members are reminded to save the following key dates in their diaries for 2012: April 25 – RDS Members’ Day at the Punchestown Festival May 3 – Stated General Meeting of the RDS June 8 – RDS Annual Golf Outing to Dun Laoghaire Golf Club August 15-19 – Dublin Horse Show December 6 – Stated General Meeting of the RDS
15
15 17 – 19 18 – 19 20 22 22 – 23 23 – 24 25 – 26 27 29
MARCH 2 2–4 2–5 5 7
8 8 9 11
RDS Business Breakfast: Hugo MacNeill, CEO of Goldman Sachs and former Irish International Rugby Player – 7.30am – Thomas Prior Room Postgradireland fair – Hall 1 Rabo Direct Pro 12: Leinster v Scarlets – Main Arena Divine Mercy Apostolate Conference – Hall 1 RDS Rising Stars Spring Recital Series – 1.00pm – RDS Concert Hall RDS Members’ Event: Vino & Verdi – 7.00pm – Minerva Suite Facilities Management Ireland incorporating Health & Safety Ireland – Hall 1 RDS-EAAE Price Volatility and Farm Income Stabilisation Seminar – RDS Concert Hall The Music Show – Hall 1 RDS Rising Stars Spring Recital Series – 1.00pm – RDS Concert Hall RDS Speaker Series: Dr Marie Bourke – The Story of Irish Museums 1790-2000 – 6.00pm – Minerva Suite
RDS Members’ Event: Evening Dining – 6.30pm – Members’ Club Working Abroad Expo – RDS Concert Hall Whyte & Sons Auctioneers Ltd – Hall 6 RDS Rising Stars Spring Recital Series – 1.00pm – RDS Concert Hall RDS Speaker Series: Dr John Bowman – Window and Mirror: RTÉ Television 1961-2011 – 6.00pm – Minerva Suite Members’ outing to Glasnevin Cemetery RDS Augustine Henry Forestry Lecture – 7.30pm – Minerva Suite Weapons of Mass Destruction of the Immune System – 10.00am – RDS Concert Hall Spring Clean for Charity Event – Hall 2
11 – 12 16 18 – 5/4
23
23 – 25 25 – 27 28
28 – 29 31
Irish Beauty Show – Hall 8C Members’ Event: Oscar Wilde Theatre dinner – 700pm – Thomas Prior Room RDS Library Exhibition: Exhibition of Eugene Lambert Puppets – 10.00am-5.00pm (Monday to Friday) – RDS Library Members’ outing to Cinderella Ballet at the Grand Canal Theatre and pre-theatre dinner – 5.00pm – Members’ Club Rabo Direct Pro 12: Leinster v Ospreys – Main Arena Furniture & Homes Accessories Fair – Hall 8A RDS Business Breakfast: Tony Carroll, Manager of Sustainability, ESB Electric Ireland – 7.30am – Thomas Prior Room Energy Show – Hall 1 Irish Chamber Orchestra – Lyrical Landscapes – RDS Concert Hall
APRIL 1 Credit Union Schools Quiz – Hall 1 10/4 – 3/5 Charity Expo – Hall 4 11 RDS Speaker Series: David Davison – Fr Browne, from Titanic to Kangaroobie – 6.00pm – Minerva Suite 13 – 15 Rabo Direct Pro 12: Leinster v Edinburgh – Main Arena 14 – 15 Pregnancy & Baby Fair – Hall 8C 16 Members’ outing to Croke Park and the Aviva Stadium 18 RDS Business Breakfast: Giles O’Neill, Regional Director Enterprise Ireland Europe – 7.30am – Thomas Prior Room 18 RDS Speaker Series: Kevin and Emer Rockett – The Magic Lantern in Ireland – 6.00pm – Minerva Suite 25 RDS Members’ Day at Punchestown – 12 noon – Punchestown Racecourse 27 Members’ Themed Dining – 6.00pm – Members’ Club
December 2011
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RDS
Minerva
Pictorial feature
Restoring our treasures The Membership Affairs Committee and the Committee of Arts advised on a project to conserve some of the artworks or ‘Treasures’ this year. In total, ten pictures were conserved and one frame was restored. If you are interested in seeing the results, why not come on one of our monthly Tours & Tea? Contact the Membership Desk on 01 240 7296 to book.
RESTORATION Intern Pearl O'Sullivan works on cleaning one of the Society's pictures.
RDS 280 EXHIBITION Henry Sandon of The Antiques Roadshow with Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, Jimmy Deenihan TD, pictured in front of the restored portrait of Isaac Weld.
UNCOVERING TREASURES Pearl O'Sullivan cleans the portrait of Isaac Weld.
CLEANING PEG The Society's recently cleaned portrait of Peg Woffington receives a coat of varnish from art conservator Roland Hulme-Beaman.
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December 2011
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Pictorial feature
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RDS
Art Fair 2011 Art Fair 2011 took place from November 4-6, and is Ireland’s largest and most popular art fair, with over 100 galleries and artists taking part, and thousands of art lovers in attendance every year.
December 2011
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RDS
Minerva
CEO’s review of the year
Building on strong foundations It’s evident that traditional values underpin the performance of the Society as Chief Executive Michael Duffy reviews the year. Implementation of the Strategic Plan for the Foundation activities was
operation of five-star hotels. We wish London & Regional Plc every
a priority for the officers, management and staff of the Society in 2011.
success in the coming years.
The plan, which was agreed as a result of the adoption of the strategic
Looking to the future, we are considering the development of the
review in October 2010, sees a notable increase in the scope and range
Main Arena, with plans to increase its capacity for Leinster rugby
of the Foundation activities. There is a new Foundation Board, a new
matches from 18,500 to 23,000 and to construct a new all-seated
Library Committee, and a new Membership Committee, all of which
Angelsea Stand.
are structures designed to support the implementation of the strategy.
Together with other new ventures we are exploring, it means that
Together with the Standing Committees, these new structures have
there is scope for further steady and progressive development of the
among their objectives a more involved and engaged membership.
Society’s facilities.
Links between the Standing Committees and the membership are being strengthened by this new activity and there are now more ways
Commercial performance
for Members to get involved in the Society. Communications with
Despite the incredibly challenging trading conditions, the RDS
Members have also been increased and improved.
continues to attract excellent shows organised by strong clients.
There has been a good response to the introduction of Corporate
Bookings for 2012 are broadly in line with 2011, while the
Membership, which allows companies to nominate four executives
International Eurcharistic Congress will be a major event for five days
to avail of the Society’s facilities. Membership numbers generally are
in June 2012. These major, once-off events (such as the Tutankhamun
stable too, reflecting that greater level of engagement.
exhibition this year) are very important additions to our base of regular shows, concerts and sporting events. Thankfully, we have an excellent
Planning pays off
location, a strong brand, and a well-earned reputation for the high
Special mention must be made of the success of the Discover Ireland
level of operational capability of our staff. These have held up under
Dublin Horse Show. Several years of hard work and investment
the economic pressure of the times.
culminated in a particularly successful Show this year. Crucial to its success has been a restructured programme (more than 30 changes in
Hard work
the last four years); broadening the range of entertainment; improved
I wish to compliment – and thank – the officers, committee members,
marketing; and investment in our facilities. A great deal of this hard
management, staff and wide range of Members and volunteers for all
work was evolutionary progress and yielded a highly successful Show.
your various contributions to the Society. Through hard work and
It augurs well for 2012.
exceptional service you have ensured a successful year for the RDS. The Society is built on your traditional values of service and progress
Planning pays off – part two
and these are firm foundations for any organisation.
The construction of the Society’s office buildings came to fruition this year, when the second building was fully let. The second phase of planning permission runs until 2014 and allows for the development of a further two office buildings. The Society will consider the options over the coming year in relation to the second phase of development. Another notable event was the acquisition of the Four Seasons Hotel by London & Regional Plc, a large company already engaged in the
Page 16 December 2011
Chief Executive December 2011