The University Express - Vol. 23, Issue 5

University Volume 24 | Issue | Tuesday 12th November 2019

Express UCCExpress.ie

Students’ Union Set Up Food Bank for Struggling Students

Photo Credit: Leahy Photos

Writes Maeve O‘Sullivan, Deputy News Editor UCC Student’s Union recently announced that they have set up a food bank for students who are struggling financially in college.

The aim of the project is to offer a concrete solution to students who are faced with increased rents

#TooIntoYou Campaign

Page 4 News

and government grants that have not been increased since 2012.

The cost of living has increased, with rent in Cork rising 7.1% in the last year. In the past 5 years UCC student intake has risen 9.7% however housing still remains at a low.

the former Beamish & Crawford Brewery site, sees student paying for €9,006 for the 38-week term.

Along with college fees, travels costs and food, it is no wonder that the UCC Student’s Union felt the need for the Food Bank project.

Landlords are seen to be taking advantage of the crisis and new student accommodations on offer to students are at an alarming price.

The new Lee Point development on

Students at UCC will have the option to contact their Union and avail of the service to see them through this hard time. Welfare officer, Naoise Crowley hopes that

Sustainable Christmas Guide

Quiet Lights Festival 2019

Page 7 Features

Page 25 Byline

by helping the students this way, it will have a knock-on effect on their mental health and over-all accessibility of 3rd level education.

“It is largely underestimated as there is a considerable stigma surrounding financial hardship which prevents people from speaking about it, and in some cases, seeking help’’, says Naoise.

Continued on Page 3

Michael Conlan Interview

Page 36 Sport

Editorial

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Issue 5 | Tuesday 12th Nov 2019 | University Express To Whom It May Concern Writes Ciaran Dineen, Editor-in-Chief

Editorial Team Editor-in-Chief – Ciaran Dineen (Editor@UCCExpress.ie) News Editor – Samantha Calthrop (News@UCCExpress.ie) Designer – Fiona Cremins (Design@UCCExpress.ie) Features Editor – Róisin O’Donnell (Features@UCCExpress.ie) Sports Editor – Jack Maguire (Sport@UCCExpress.ie) Opinion Editor – Elisha Carey (Opinion@UCCExpress.ie) Online Editor – Edel Lonergan (Online@UCCExpress.ie) Proof Editor - Chloe Jesse (Proofing@uccexpress.ie) Marketing Executive – Ciaran Dineen (Marketing@UCCExpress.ie) Webmaster – Jonathan Hanley (Webmaster@UCCExpress.ie) Photographers – Caoimhe Leahy, Eve Harrington (Photographers@uccexpress.ie) Byline Editor – Cian McGrath (Byline@UCCExpress.ie) (Deputy Editor) Eagarthóir Gaeilge – Hugh Ó Raghallaigh Mac Gearailt (Gaeilge@UCCExpress.ie) Food & Health - Katie Kelly (Food@UCCExpress.ie) Arts & Literature Editor – Fiona Keely (Arts@UCCExpress.ie) Gaming Editor – Jack Coleman (Gaming @UCCExpress.ie) Music Editor – Fiona O’Connell (Music@UCCExpress.ie) Film & Television Editor – Eoghan Creedon (Screen@UCCExpress.ie) Sexpress Editor – Caoimhe Battault (Sexpress@uccexpress.ie) Fashion Editor - Katie Burke (Fashion@UCCExpress.ie) Deputy Sports - Sam Curtin (Deputysports@uccexpress.ie) Deputy News Maeve O’Sullivan (Deputynews@uccexpress.ie) Deputy Features - Molly O’Rourke (Deputyfeatures@uccexpress.ie)

‘Oh all the money that e’er I spent, I spent it in good company’. Those are the first words from the beautiful ballad, The Parting Glass. The song was recently sung on the special episode of the Late Late Show in tribute to legendary Irish broadcaster, Gay Byrne, who passed away last week aged 85.

Byrne was and will remain an inspirational figure not only amongst those in the media, but to a wider audience who acknowledge the impact that he had on shaping Irish culture to reflect a more modern society. He leaves us in an Ireland that is more progressive than ever, and he is a testament of the importance that media and journalism has to play in creating or developing a narrative that captures the mood of the country.

During his 37 years as the host of the world’s longest running live chat show, Gay gave a platform to people and to topics that had been kept in the shadows as part of the state-church dichotomy that was a core-feature in Irish life. The actions he took then were courageous and he showed incredible fortitude through any adversity he subsequently faced. His legacy should never be forgotten and we must pay close attention to his lessons of shedding light on uncomfortable subjects and allowing people to speak in this era of ‘cancel culture’. RIP Gaybo.

My thoughts this week are also with some members of the University Express team, a few of whom have also experienced very difficult losses in the past couple of weeks. It is at times like these that you surround yourself with those who care most about you, and the Express family will always have it arms open and shoulders ready to be cried upon in moments of hardship.

As we approach exams it’s important that all students are at the top of their game and you should take every opportunity afforded to you in order for that to become a reality. Just remember that everyone is different so don’t panic if you’re going about your business differently to others when studying or preparing for the weeks ahead.

In our penultimate edition of the year we have once again pulled off a stacked paper. Our sports editor, Jack Maguire, speaks with the fighting-pride of Ireland, Michael Conlan on life in the world of boxing. Our chefs in residence provide some winter gastronomy tips, while deputy features editor, Molly O’Rourke, gives a guide to a sustainable Christmas. All that plus much much more.

As always, happy reading.

Take care, Ciaran.

editor@uccexpress.ie

For Tomen Writes Samantha Calthrop, News Editor My close friend Tomen passed away last week. I could talk at length about Tom’s qualities, our friendship, and how wonderful he was. But this is a news editorial, after all, so let’s talk about a piece of news: this week, the HSE admitted that it had misplaced referrals for 109 patients on the waiting list to see a gender clinic.

In March, Tom published a small statement online. He wrote, “After a year, I’m finally on the waiting list for the gender clinic. I also happen to have cancer. The list is so long they’ve stopped giving estimates on how long it’ll take.

The last timeframe I saw was 26 months. I can’t wait that long.” He ended on a heavy note: “I might die before I’m me.”

Rates of suicide, assault and harassment for transgender people are far higher than the average population; studies have found up to 40% of transgender people are suicidal. Many struggle with depression and self-harm, with a considerably below-average life expectency. Of course, the issue of gender transition is considered a contraversial one. It’s been studied academically repeatedly, more in recent years than ever before.

It’s been proven, repeatedly, that those statistics drop close to normal levels with a succesful transition. Conversion therapy and prolonged denial don’t work. Treatment of gender dysphoria as a mental disorder doesn’t work. Letting people transition works. It’s the fastest, most effective way to reduce mental illness, suicide and self-harm in a part of the population— most of whom are begging for medical intervention. There are no plans to change the system.

After years of limbo and silence from the HSE, Tom turned to a private company, whose doctors diagnosed him within months. He was prescribed hormone replacement therapy a month or two ago. He was incredibly happy and excited. He was just starting to grow facial hair, hear his voice change. He was looking forward to the day when he was unmistakably male. The day never came.

Cancer stole away Tom’s future. But the HSE, to their credit, did everything they could for him. They responded to his cancer with urgency and swiftness, provided everything they could as soon as they could— knowing that a slow response could kill him. Meanwhile, 109 people— a huge chunk of whom are suicidal— were misplaced and forgotten about.

How many months of happiness and validation did Tom lose, waiting for that next appointment? How much of his life did he waste with long chains of psychologists and clinicians, trying to convince them of what he already knew— that he was a man?

Tom attended every Pride march and protest for trans rights he could. He was an active volunteer with Gender Rebels. He was training to do more; he wanted to do everything he could for his peers, even when he was sick, even when he knew his time was limited. After all, outreach work is vital in Ireland especially, where every young trans person must resign themselves to years of waiting and silence, with nowhere to turn but NGOs and support groups. The system has failed all of them, just the way it failed Tom. How many more people will lose

news@uccexpress.ie #uccexpress

their lives waiting? How many people are sick, and trapped in that long, long list? Tom was just one of countless voices calling out for reform. In his absence, it’s all I can do to join them.

Issue 5 | Tuesday 12th Nov 2019 | University Express

News

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UCC Named World’s Best University for Recycling and Sustainability Writes Maeve O’Sullivan, Deputy News Editor

Cover Story Continued...

36% of students in Ireland are said to be suffering from ‘severe finical problems’ and the government issued grant SUSI is not available to everyone. Of the 98,000 applicants for 2019/2020 academic year, only 81,800 students were awarded. As of 2018, there is over 231,800 students in the higher educational system, 8% over the previous five years.

With the rising attendance and costs, UCC are calling on more action to be taken from the government to help. This is the generation of the future; they need to invest. With the general election planned for the next year, students are advised to put it to their local TDs to demand change from government level. Budget allocations to the grant need to be revised to help students in need.

“In essence, support options have not moved in line with this increased cost of attending university. This is creating a very difficult environment for students and is effectively freezing people out of education.”

Speaking to the University Express about the news was Welfare Officer, Naoise Crowley, who said, “Food poverty is a prevalent issue in Irish society at present, with certain estimates of over 700,000 experiencing food poverty to some extent.

Student poverty and financial hardship is a massively underestimated issue in Irish universities, with approximately 36%

of students in Ireland experiencing ‘severe financial problems’.”

In a further statement from the UCC SU it read, “the cost of living is increasing rapidly at present, with rents in Cork increasing by 7.1% last year. However, grant amounts and thresholds have not changed since the austerity budgets of the coalition government following the recession. In essence, support options have not moved in line with this increased cost of attending university. This is creating a very difficult environment for students and is effectively freezing people out of education. It appears that many of these ‘temporary cuts’ are here to stay in the short-medium term, at least. Students’ Unions across the island have responded to this situation by putting pressure on politicians and policymakers to make education more accessible, and we are continuing with such efforts. At the same time, we want to do our best to tackle this crisis by taking innovative and practical steps to support our students struggling with the cost of attending college. UCC SU Food Bank allows us to respond directly and in a tangible manner to one of the most common areas students come to us for assistance. Welfare issues are very often interconnected and there is a long-established link between financial hardship and mental health difficulties. By ensuring the basic needs of students are met we hope this will have a positive knock-on effect on the mental health of students we support through this initiative.”

Times Higher Education has ranked University College Cork number 1 on their actions towards the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The process of ranking took into consideration how the college researches, operates, sustainability reports and recycling programmes.

In 2007, the Green Campus programmed was launched in UCC. Through the programme, the college improved its recycling facilities and addresses waste management around the grounds.

Since the introduction of this programme, UCC has cut its carbon emissions by 36%, planted 2,500 trees on campus and increased the number of people cycling by 90%. Boole Library, the busiest and most energy-intensive build-

ing on campus, has see a 9% reduction in energy use and a 700% increase in recycling through its own sustainability programme. €40,000 has been saved through these energy reductions.

UCC is the first university in the world to be awarded a Green Flag from the Foundation for Environmental Education, a global organisation that embeds sustainability throughout the education process.

87% of students worldwide want to see sustainability more actively promoted on campus with over half believing that sustainability should be on the syllabus. Students in UCC are well used to seeing the use of Keep Cups and biodegradable products on campus.

The staff and students should be encouraged by this award.

In This Issue....

Features The Potential of Data: Digitisation Page 11 Interview Junior Brother Page 18 Sexpress Answer (a) for ‘Ass-hole Page 28 Gaming Riot Games and Blizzard: Rivals in Controversy Page 30

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News

Issue 5 | Tuesday 12th Nov 2019 | University Express

#TooIntoYou Campaign Offers Support to Young Women

presenter encourages every young woman to give the quiz a go. Bláthnaid says: “The dating landscape has changed a lot, even in just the last few years and Women’s Aid has adapted too with the #TooIntoYou campaign. I am honoured to be an ambassador for this campaign as it is specifically aimed at young women. We want to let young women know exactly what dating abuse is and to be able to recognise the signs, so they know whether or not they are getting into a healthy or unhealthy relationship.’’

National organisation Woman’s Aid launched its new campaign #TooIntoYou Wednesday 23rd of October. The organisation, which offers support and information to women experiencing domestic violence and dating abuses, is running the campaign until 25th of November.

Previously this year, under the Domestic Violent Act 2018, new laws were introduced and meant that women experiencing abuse in dating relationships can now apply for Safety and Protection orders.

Despite this, Woman’s Aid do not believe that enough young women are aware of this or how to go about getting the protection they need.

In response, the organisation has launched a free ‘Guide to Safety Orders in Dating Relationships’. Additionally, the November campaign includes the ’10 Key Danger Signs of Dating Abuse’ and provides information to combat online stalking and digital abuse. Technology takes on a huge role in relationships today and Woman’s Aid are hearing more and more from young woman about their experience with stalking and boyfriends monitoring and controlling girls via social media.

The guides, quizzes and more information can be found on www.toointo.ie The Woman’s Aid 24hr National Freephone Helpline 1800 341 900 is available 7 days a week.

Writes Maeve O’Sullivan, Deputy News Editor

Sarah Benson, CEO of Women’s Aid elaborated more on these experiences; “For 45 years Women’s Aid has supported many thousands of women experiencing domestic violence, and while harassment/ stalking has always been one of the forms of abuse that women reported to us, with the development of information and communications technology new forms of harassment have become common and we increasingly hear about cyber-harassment/stalking and image based sexual abuse.”

“Abusers also use the internet and mobile phones to monitor where a woman is, what she does and whom she meets, at times even resorting to specific software packages to spy on the victim and find out about internet and bank account passwords or her whereabouts. Consequences for victims can be very severe both psychologically and practically.

At the time their physical safety may be seriously imperilled. Women need full protection urgently from this insidious and harmful abuse” In 2018 there were 19,089 contacts with Women’s Aid direct services and 20,722 disclosures of domestic abuse against women and children.

The most common forms of cyber-harassment heard about are; harmful, untrue rumours being spread about women both personally and professionally, sexually explicit/pornographic pictures uploaded both on Facebook and the internet more generally, and advertising them as escorts without their consent or knowledge.

Women’s Aid welcomes the current joint Oireachtas justice committee hearings on online harassment and harmful communications which Women’s Aid made a submission to.

In a national survey on domestic abuse, almost 60% of people who had experienced severe abuse in intimate relationships experienced the abuse for the first time under the age of 25. (National Crime Council 2005). 39% of young women (aged 18-29) in Ireland have experienced emotional abuse by a boyfriend or partner (FRA, EU Wide Survey, 2014). The same study on violence against women showed that 12% of Irish women and girls over the age of 15 had experienced stalking with 50% being stalked, physically and online, by a partner or ex.

40 women aged between 18 and 25 years old have been murdered in the Republic of Ireland since 1996. Of the resolved cases, 52% of women were murdered by a boyfriend or former partner. (Women’s Aid Femicide Watch 2018) Ambassador for the campaign, Bláthnaid Treacy, RTÉ TV and radio

Female Bus Driver Threatened With Rape By Teenagers Writes Ciaran Dineen, Editor-in-Chief

Halloween is supposed to be a fun-spirited confectionary dream for many of our youngest citizens but for one Cork-based female bus driver it proved to be a night of utter hell. The very popular 220 bus, which passes UCC on a route from Ballincollig to Carrigaline over 50 times a day, became the centre of controversy on the 31st of October after a group of young teenagers threatened to rape the bus driver.

The incident occurred on Halloween night in Carrigaline and has caused a justifiably considerable response from the bus drivers’ union, who met immediately after the attack to discuss their next course of action.

It all started when a group of teenagers, described as being of mixed nationalities, entered the bus in Kilmoney, Carrigaline and walked on without paying. When the driver signalled that they would have to pay or get off the bus they claimed that she was being racist, before proceeding to threaten her with rape if she did not back down. The female driver became naturally very distressed and rang the Gardaí for assistance, leaving the bus in a standstill position.

When the authorities arrived, just 15 minutes after the incident was reported, they indicated that they could not apprehend the gang of youths, but did remove them from the bus before incredibly, a private bus was arranged to collect them and bring them home.

Long-time Cork bus driver, Leonard Kelly spoke to 96 FMs Opinion Line following the incident and described the union’s frustration how the shocking event was handled. He said that Gardaí were

also abused by the gang, who are supposedly part of a wider network and travel to different areas around Cork to cause trouble and have been named as the RBL, aka ‘Real Black Lads’. This follows a series of other cases involving the same group, who at this stage are well known to the authorities. Mr Kelly has called for transport police to be introduced on night-time bus routes that are at risk of this kind of behaviour.

Attacks such as the one that took place on the 31st October are now common place according to the Bus Éireann veteran, who told PJ Coogan of the Opinion Line that bus drivers are now subject to regular abuse during their shifts. The mother of two would have been supported by other transport users had the incident taken place on the North Side of Cork City according to Mr Kelly, claiming that bystanders from that part of Cork would have intervened in the matter.

When approached to comment on the matter, Mary Crilly of the Sexual Violence Centre Cork mentioned that she also believed that some form of authoritative figure is now necessary on some bus routes. Speaking to the University Express Mary said, “I got a few calls today from people were saying to me that maybe it’s just young fellas saying it in a kind of messing way but they’re not actually going to do it but I think saying it is enough (to warrant punishment) because the majority of boys wouldn’t say it. They shouldn’t just get away with it because they are under 18 and I think we should take this very seriously.”

Issue 5 | Tuesday 12th Nov 2019 | University Express

News

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Famous broadcaster Gay Byrne passes away at age 85 Writes Samantha Calthrop, News Editor

Government and media figures alike have been paying tribute to famous broadcaster and presenter Gabriel “Gay” Mary Byrne, who passed away on November 4th. Gay Byrne was a longstanding figure in Irish broadcasting, and most notably presented the Late Late Show for 37 years, from its first episode in 1963.

While Gay Byrne was a prominent and much-beloved figure in Irish households, tributes have also been paid to the huge role he played in tackling social issues in Ireland. As one of the first Irish figures to publicly discuss issues such as homosexuality, abortion, and the Catholic Church, he has been credited for encouraging a more open, progressive Ireland.

“He moved Ireland from an insular establishment country to one that was much more emerging and outward looking. In a way, people could relate to this kind of an everyman of a modernising Ireland,” Dr Finola Doyle O’Neill, broadcast historian and lecturer at UCC, told the media in a statement. “He asked the questions we wanted to hear.

He was the boldest and brightest

star of the new media revolution.”

“He discussed sexual issues openly. He was the first to talk to David Norris about homosexuality and he always included the non-nuclear family. There was also the story in the 80s of a woman with AIDS on his radio programme. This was at a time when people were very ignorant about it and how it could be transmitted. It was hugely enlightening.”

Members of the Dáil have paid tributes to Gay Byrne from all sides. Taoiseach Leo Varadkar described Gay Byrne as “the most influential broadcaster in the history of the State,” who “provided an outlet for all of those who had been silenced or were afraid to speak up”. Party leaders of Fianna Fáil, Sinn Féin and Labour have all praised Gay Byrne’s legacy.

Other Irish figures have also paid tribute— including Tayto, which had to delete a twitter post of the famous Mr. Tayto looking sad for eliciting controversy. Éanna Brophy, former reporter and columnist with The Sunday Press,

praised Gay Byrne’s legacy of speaking on progressive issues. “He got so well-established that if he was going to go for a bit of controversy he had the status to do it by then. I remember being told by an RTÉ producer that Gay was worth £8 million a year in ad revenue to RTÉ, and that was decades ago so you can multiply that a few times in today’s money.”

Loved ones and fans alike collected in St Mary’s Pro Cathedral on Friday 8th, where Fr Leonard Maloney SJ described Gay Byrne as “reflective, deep, serious, thoughtful, a person of values. Those who were closest to Gay knew him as a kind, generous and simple man who would counsel them always to give people the benefit of the doubt because, as he used to say, ‘You never know what they are going through’.

He showed this same good grace and warmth wherever he went.”

On Tuesday 4th November some famous faces across Irish media from down through the years gathered together to pay a heartfelt and emotional tribute to the man often referred to as, ‘himself’. The Late Late

Show put on a special, once-off show in tribute to celebrate their fallen star. Originally scheduled for two hours, the show extended beyond that, such was the incredible flow and beauty of the programme.

Current and former Irish Presidents, joined some of the most prolific celebrities from this Island and all had a noteworthy contribution to the life and career of this country’s greatest ever broadcaster.

Four days later Gay was laid to rest at St Mary’s Pro-Cathedral in Dublin, where many of his friends and family came together to say one last fond farewell. Taoiseach Leo Varadkar and President Michael D Higgins as well as current Late Late Show host Ryan Tubridy were just a few of a number of notable names who attended the service. If funeral’s can have highlights, it was certainly delivered by the TV legend’s daughter, Suzy Byrne, who recited an extremely poignant poem in memory of her father and to pay our own homage the University Express would like to finish with the very same.

Thank you, Dad. You gave us words, ideas, music, songs.

“Often you made us laugh out loud and long.

“Beneath it all, you searched what was true. Thank you for that.

“And thank you most of all for being you.”

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Features

Issue 5 | Tuesday 12th Nov 2019 | University Express

Why Solo Travel Benefits The Soul Writes Aodhán Keegan In July, during a quiet day in the office where I was working in over the summer, I stumbled across a Ryanair deal with flights from €12.99 to certain cities in Europe on Facebook. With a fine-tooth comb, I analysed the different city breaks Ryanair was offering; London, Paris, Berlin. I scrolled down the list and came across Edinburgh. I had heard countless positive stories about Edinburgh, about its history, about its culture and its people, (who are honestly some of the friendliest people I’ve encountered besides the Irish).

As a result, my curiosity got the better of me. In a matter of fifteen minutes, I took a leap of faith, acted on my gut instincts, which normally would have been fleeting, and booked return flights from Dublin for early October for three days. However, this article is not an itinerary of my excursions in Edinburgh, nor is it a prescription of the do’s and don’ts of travelling. As I know from reading various travel articles, there is no one size fits all when it comes to travelling. What I would like to discuss is why I travelled solo to Edinburgh, and why it was one of the most terrifying yet best decisions of my adult life, (and one of the only good decisions so far!)

In the back of my mind, it was something that I always wanted to try, but either never had the courage to do so or seriously considered it. For a long time, I believed that travelling solo was something only loners did if they couldn’t find someone to go with, or there was some turmoil going on in their lives. However, once I got over that mental barrier, I realised that many people, both introverts and extroverts, do it all the time for a variety of reasons and there’s absolutely no shame in it.

It doesn’t mean you’re an unsociable arse or have a troubled mind.

In fact, I know some people who are very sociable who did it more than once and enjoyed it more than in the company of others.

I will begin with the pros of solo

travelling. You really get to embrace your own person, something you don’t necessarily get the chance to do when you travel with others. You can afford to be selfish; you have your own daily agenda and you can spend as much time as you want doing a certain activity. Furthermore, I noticed that as a solo traveller, the locals rarely see you as a tourist as many people are still not accustomed to the concept of solo travel. When you travel in a group, you are more noticeably a tourist. In a group dynamic, there is always someone leading and deciding

which places to visit, whereas as a solo traveller, you are your own person. It is up to you to make the right decisions regarding your travel arrangements without the advice from others. What I found was that I had way more flexibility and opportunity to sample certain aspects of the Scottish culture for myself, something I may have been less exposed to when travelling with others. While I had to compromise on certain things when travelling alone, it was more so on a time-related issue or just seeing sights for the sake of seeing them.

However, to quote Spider-Man, with great power comes great responsibility! On a more serious note, solo travelling requires not just courage but strong organisational skills, something I did not anticipate until after I booked my trip. You are going off to a foreign land ALONE so no one will be reminding you to look after yourself, like making sure you have your hotel room key on you, or that your passport and other important possessions are in a secure place both sightseeing or somewhere in the room. But above all, besides making sure that you’re not a target of petty crime, do your research before you travel. Not on where the best place to get a cappuccino is or where the oldest McDonald’s is, but on the general facts of the city or country itself. Research on the dodgy areas of the city or country before you make the final decision on accommodation. A certain hotel may look lavish and comfortable, but for all you know, there could be a rabid dog lurking outside the hotel at night. Or it could be near the area with the highest rate of selfie-related incidents!

You just never know what you may overlook. Another thing that I may point out, and that goes for both solo travelling and travelling with others, it is very tiring and requires a lot of energy from you.

This is something I didn’t consider at all before I travelled alone.

Especially as a solo traveller, your mental strength is your travel companion. Make sure you treat it well, as you would with a travel companion! All the arrangements and priorities of the solo trip are decided by you and it is up to you to be responsible for yourself.

To sum up solo travel in one sentence; it is bloody awesome!

While it is a challenging experience which requires a lot of selfcare, it is nonetheless equally invigorating for your own self. It is definitely something that I would encourage everyone to try at least once. I hate to use this cliché, but it is a fantastic excuse to step out of your comfort zone, whether it’s for three days, a week, a month or even a year or more. If you have any interest in doing it, don’t keep putting it off, like I did, just go for it and see for yourself!

Issue 5 | Tuesday 12th Nov 2019 | University Express

Features

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Your Sustainable Christmas Guide Writes Molly O’Rourke, Deputy Features Editor Now that Halloween has come and gone, many people excitedly turn their attention to Christmas. On November 1st , I heard Christmas songs being played unironically on the radio and saw shocking Snapchats of people decorating their trees. Don’t get me wrong, I absolutely love Christmas; it’s hands-down the best time of the year but starting to celebrate in November is just too early! A staunch traditionalist, I believe Christmas celebrations can begin only after the 1st of December. Writing this article while the remains of a carved pumpkin are still on the table seems all wrong, but I am always willing to put my principles aside for pushing climate action on people.

buy real trees in the past. A live, potted tree is the best option; however, these can normally only stay indoors for a week, after that they’ll need to be planted outdoors. A small potted tree would be a nice idea for your bedroom and afterwards, you can bring it home to plant it. If you’d rather have your tree up for longer, buying a locally grown tree is the way to go. These trees will have a much smaller carbon footprint compared to synthetic trees which are typically imported from China.

On top of this, households can bring their old trees to the local council, where they will be composted and turned into mulch for public parks. By doing this, you’re creating a positive cycle for the environment. Plus, nothing beats the smell of a real Christmas tree.

the table but create such an enormous amount of waste each year.

If you feel like they are an integral part of your celebration, consider buying eco-friendly versions that don’t include plastic toys, or are 100% recyclable. It’s also possible to create your own ‘green’ crackers, by rolling empty toilet roll tubes in scraps of paper and filling them with handwritten jokes and sweets. They still look festive, but there’s no waste involved. bon footprint is to do a Secret Santa with your family or friends. This • Wrapping Presents. eliminates the fear of having to The majority of decorated gift- buy a mountain of gifts for a large wraps are not recyclable, which group. Instead, you can focus on means a staggering amount of buying one really special gift for paper ends up in a landfill every someone, and it saves you money.

Christmas. Avoid metallic or glit• Recycle. tery papers when choosing designs or make a conscious effort When you’re opening gifts, preto buy recyclable paper. Alterna- paring dinner or tidying up after Unfortunately, Christmas time in tively, you can wrap gifts in brown the festive season, make sure to • Zero-waste decorations.

Ireland is not known for being the paper, old maps or newspapers. check what is recyclable and what most sustainable of times. House- In my family, we’ve been using I personally love wrapping gifts isn’t. Bring old electronics to your holders throw away over €700 in the same baubles and decora- in brown paper, as you can per- local WEEE recycling center for food waste every year, with this tions for as long as I can remem- sonalise each gift with markers. free, make a trip to the bottle bank number peaking during the fes- ber. The only new ones that ap- Twine and cotton ribbons are and think about reusing any large tive season. Unilever estimates pear on the tree are ones we have another easy way to make your boxes you receive. When it comes that in the UK alone, 74 million been gifted. We have such a large presents stand out. When open- to food waste, an easy way to avoid mince pies are thrown away each collection there’s no need to buy ing gifts from others, try to keep it is to plan your Christmas meal year, and this isn’t the only area more, and ours are filled with the paper as intact as possible; and shopping list well in advance. where we are forgetting our ‘green nostalgia. When it comes to deco- this way you can reuse it for an- Store any leftovers properly and thinking’. Single-use plastics are rating your house, it is pretty easy other gift rather than throwing be sure to use them before they omnipresent at Christmas time to be more sustainable. First of it out. This applies to commer- go bad – there are plenty of crein crackers, wrapped around gifts all, tinsel on the tree is a big no. cial Christmas cards too, making ative recipes online for Christmas and decorating our trees. On top It may look pretty under the spar- your own is a more personal and leftovers. If no one in your family of this, it is a peak time for con- kling lights, but it is ultimately sustainable approach, but there eats brussels sprouts, don’t cook sumerism and materialism, peo- destined for landfill. For an extra are recyclable cards available. them just because they’re a tradition. Make sure whatever food ple want to outdo each other each Pinterest-style look, swap out the • Buy Less. you are throwing out is going into year, getting bigger and bright- tinsel for recyclable materials like er gifts. I may be sounding like a cotton or hemp to create bows. When it comes to buying pres- those green food waste bags begrinch here, and that is not my in- Invest in LED string lights to en- ents for people, it’s easy to give fore being put into your food bin. tention. I do really love Christmas, sure your tree is energy efficient eco-friendly gifts that your fam- Christmas is a truly wonderful I have just come to realise that we and remember to turn them off ily and friends will appreciate, time of year, and there are so can change our habits to help the when you’re not home or during (although young children will many traditions we celebrate. environment and still enjoy our the night, (you can also buy always love bright, shiny plastic It doesn’t take many changes to traditions. Whether you leave all Christmas lights with timers on toys). Giving the gift of time or enjoy a more sustainable Christthe decorating and planning to them for this purpose). If you’re an experience often shows more mas, so I would recommend you your parents, or you’re consid- feeling creative, pinecones can thoughtfulness than gifting items. take the first step this year. The ering giving your college house a be dried out and decorated with Vouchers for spa days, activities, eco-Christmas trend is being festive makeover, read on to get paint for an authentic decoration. tickets to shows or simply an offer picked up around the country. I’ve to take someone out to lunch are some ideas on how you can have seen handmade wooden decora• Christmas Crackers. all thoughtful gifts you can give to a more sustainable Christmas. tions at craft fairs and there’s even They’re fun for maybe ten min- family. If you prefer to give them a sustainable Christmas shop after • Buy a real tree. utes: you get a little paper hat, read something physical, be aware of opening in Dublin this year! We This one might seem counter-in- a terrible joke and have 5 minutes what you are buying. Visit local can work together to reduce the tuitive, but it is more eco-friendly of mediocre fun with the for- craft fairs and food markets for harmful effects of our behaviour to buy a real tree over a synthetic tune-telling fish. Afterwards, the something special, or even considon the environment; if people plastic one. In fact, Andrew Doyle, waste from all the crackers is bun- er regifting something (because, make these small changes to their Minister for Food, Forestry, and dled up and thrown away, forgot- hey, recycling!). Another way to Christmas celebration it will have Horticulture has urged people to ten about. They do look festive on reduce your present-buying cara positive result for our climate.

Features

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Issue 5 | Tuesday 12th Nov 2019 | University Express

Ten Questions With a Work Placement Student Writes Roisin O’Donnell, Features Editor

I sat down with Digital Humanities and Information Technology student Fiona Keeley to find out what happens on work placement – beyond the interviews and CVs. First things first, which company are you on work placement with and where?

ships with people in the work environment and outside your generation?

I am on placement with Pricewaterhouse Coopers in Dub- It certainly seemed a daunting lin, otherwise known as PwC. task at the beginning of my placement. When working in a professional environment you have to What are the aspects to your recognize that all relationships injob? Is the Americanised stereo- side the workplace are made withtype of getting coffee true? in the values of your organization.

There is a certain standard of professionalism that is expected Besides getting coffee for my- within the four walls of the workself before I go into work in the place and this covers professionmorning, I have not gotten cof- al relationships, too. I found as I fee for anybody once. My job is said yes to new experiences, I was diverse and involves taking part able to network with more people in IT projects, meeting proj- inside the professional sphere. I ect deadlines, and working with look at forming relationships as an my team to achieve our goals. opportunity to meet some amazing people and also to ask questions and gain new insights into What is it like forming relation- topics that I have questions about.

Any advice for the ‘shy’ people out my local Toastmasters to help me there - in terms of socials, work- to stop fidgeting when I stand up place mingling and presentations? to do a presentation and to help me to improve my speech pattern.

The simplest advice I can give you is to tell someone about how you are feeling. I go by that saying, ‘a problem shared is a problem halved’, and it has stood to me so well since I started my work placement. That covers all areas of placement, not just this part.

People in the workplace understand that there may be qualms or fears about doing a presentation or being in a social setting and they will understand you might not want to dive right into doing a big presentation or work parties.

There might be training available within the organization that could help you on your journey.

You could also join a Toastmasters club. I have recently joined

Do you feel like the skills you learned from your two years of studying Digital Humanities and Information Technology came into play in your placement?

The skills I learned have definitely helped me and I would not be able to do this placement without studying Digital Humanities and Information Technology for two years. That said, the trick in placement is being able to apply the knowledge you have learned to different situations within each task. My course gave me a solid grounding in all the skills that I needed inside

Issue 5 | Tuesday 12th Nov 2019 | University Express the workplace so once I reached thinking about it. It is a realPwC I used the information that ly good habit that will help you I learned over my first two years not to overspend your money. and put it into different contexts each time I was given a new task.

1. Have a grocery shopping day and make a list before you shop. When I first Do you feel more like a student moved here I used to go at the minute or an employee? to my local grocery shop nearly every day to buy At the moment I feel like an emfood for that evening but ployee, and I believe that is the a quickly learned it would right way to feel at this stage of be kinder to my pocket if I my journey. During the first week or so when I was just finding my feet inside the workplace I did feel like a student or a ‘newbie’ for lack of better words. That feeling wore off quite quickly though because I work in an environment where everybody needs to work to their full potential, and that is what is expected of us.

Is it a challenge to balance your role as an editor at the Express and your 9 -5?

This is the absolute truth, not a bit.

While it takes focus and determination to hit deadlines, my job as Arts & Literature editor brings me so much joy, I don’t consider it to be a challenge, it is just something that is part of my life. Routine is a fantastic thing, I work during the day and when I get back to my apartment in the evening I split my time between writing for the Express and working on my diploma for Radio Journalism. I always watch the 6 o’clock news and if I have time, I will watch the 9 o’clock news and I have yet to miss a deadline for anything so it can be done.

Any advice to managing your money as a student in Ireland’s capital?

Learn to budget your money.

Know how much money you will get in each pay cheque and how much of that money you will spend on rent, utilities, nights out and anything else you decide to do while in Dublin. This was the first thing I learned to do before moving here and at this stage, I know how much a regular grocery shop costs me and I know what my travel expenses are each week without

Features picked a day to go grocery shopping and stuck to it. I now go shopping two evenings a week and I can’t believe the improvement.

2. Get a leap card. If you are like me and choose not to drive while in Dublin, you will be using the public transport system to get around the city. It’s fantastic, and between trains, the Luas and buses they will take you anywhere

9 you need to go but you will save money by paying with a leap card instead of cash.

3. There’s always the question of rent in Dublin, the rents are only going one way and that’s up. Keep your eye out for a place early. If you are thinking about moving here, start looking around now and then as soon as you get a job confirmation throw your hat in the ring and see if you can find a suitable place. I know the cost of rent is a huge turn off when considering to move to The Big Smoke and I am not going to say it is cheap but in my eyes moving to Dublin has allowed me to gain independence and a bigger perspective on what I want to do in life so there are huge advantages.

What wisdom do you think your time on work placement has equipped you with?

It has given me more independence and allowed me to think on my feet using the information I have learned in college. I see work placement in Dublin as an experience that I am immersed in for 24 hours a day because I don’t live in Cork anymore, so I still have responsibilities when I get home from work. It has given me a better perspective about the potential of technology but one of the most important things it has done for me is it has given me experiences that I would never have dreamed would happen to me. Work placement holds so much potential to develop as a person and helps you to develop an idea about what you would like to do when you leave UCC.

And finally, do you miss UCC? Yes, I do but at the same time, I do not regret my decision to move to Dublin and work in a new city. I know I will be back in UCC in September 2020, so I am making the most of my time in Dublin while I am here.

Features

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Issue 5 | Tuesday 12th Nov 2019 | University Express

The Amazing World of Animals Writes Aoife Gleeson & Daragh Brown

Has anyone ever read Gerald Durrell’s book “My Family and Other Animals”? No? Well, me neither to be honest, but I can assure you that it is at the top of my reading list! For as long as I can remember, I have been fascinated by the animal kingdom.

Countless childhood days have been spent trapping unfortunate butterflies in pencil-punctuated shoeboxes and creating my special butterfly food, (a pile of grass). Let’s just say that those butterflies were, sadly, far better off without me! Fast forwarding to the present day, I think that it is only appropriate that I ended up studying in the School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, where I stumbled upon my friend Daragh, the ‘David Attenborough’ of our friend group, (yes, she is relishing in that title!)

Her cascading knowledge of all things fauna has somehow lead me to writing this article, with all fun facts contributed by her. With the environment a constant news topic nowadays, I suppose it is only right that we should all know a few weird and wonderful facts about the amazing world of animals. And besides, what’s not to love about a giraffe’s blue tongue?

What better way to start than with tiny helmets for dung bee-

tles. I can assure you that that is not what we get up to on a regular basis, but it was for one group of scientists in 2013. They decided to equip African ball-rolling dung beetles with these tiny helmets to see if they used the stars for navigation. And guess what? When the beetles could see the stars, they travelled in straight lines but were extremely disoriented when they couldn’t, (sounds like Thursday nights in Cork city to me.) Honey badgers, (also found in Africa), can run backwards.

Maybe this is to double check that what they actually saw was indeed confused dung beetles with an interesting choice of headdress?

Other animals found on the African subcontinent which may also be questioning these beetles’ style are of course zebras. Did you know that zebras are part of the Equid family, which is the same family as horses? They are known for their distinctive stripes, but the ultimate question remains: are zebras black with white stripes or white with black stripes? Confusing, right? Well, thanks to Daragh’s extensive procrastination skills, (sorry Daragh), she discovered the answer for us. Zebra stripes are white on a black background. Who knew? Not I admittingly. They are first completely black as embryos and as the zebra

matures, melatonin, (a hormone that causes pigmentation), is inhibited. The finished product is their unique and characteristic black and white stripes, or should I say, white stripes. Fascinating!

Another intriguing side to this fabulous world of fantastic fauna, (a nod to Daragh for the alliteration), is their alluring behaviour.

Many animals are quite social beings and often work together for the benefit of the group. This is known as ‘altruism’, one of the less intimidating definitions on the ecology course. Female vampire bats form strong lifetime bonds with other unrelated females. They will share a blood meal with their ‘friend’ if they have been unable to feed in the last 70 hours, which can be fatal in vampire bats. However, some animals take a more democratic approach when it comes to group decisions. Buffaloes decide on the herd’s direction by an average vote. Females position their bodies in the direction they want to go and make a display of standing up, shaking their heads and lying down to signal this direction.

The herd then averages each buffalo’s choice and with surprising accuracy, eventually all move in the average direction of the votes.

Has anyone ever heard of the Kea? It is a highly intelligent parrot species that is endemic to New Zealand. Keas live in the snow on the mountains of the South Island and have a cheeky tendency to ransack cars for their rubber, wipers and even number plates. They have even been known to untie people’s shoelaces when they are not looking as well as opening zips. Animals, such as the Kea, are undoubtedly alluring. From their surprising intelligence to warm social groupings to all their quirks, they seem to have it all. For centuries we have been fascinated by them. Whether that was to admire or admonish them, it is up to you.

With the international uproar in response to the Amazon rainforest fires and the extinction rebellion groups protesting around the world, it seems that people are still allured and empathetic to this amazing world of animals.

To quote the real Attenborough, (sorry Daragh), “no one will protect what they don’t care about; and no one will care about what they have never experienced”. We hope that this article has prompted your curiosity into the animal kingdom, and I can assure you that no butterflies were harmed in the making of this article!

Features

Issue 5 | Tuesday 12th Nov 2019 | University Express

The Potential of Data: Digitisation Writes Roisin O’Donnell, Features Editor

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A Funeral for Past Lovers Writes Matthew Moynihan The stains of spent love linger in the blood as fractures and rheumatica.

The tart taste of expired berries dyes my teeth.

Arguably this decade and the coming years are going to be painted a bright #fcf000 by data. Yellow being the colour of happiness, hope and deceit, you choose the meaning. The data I am alluding to is not the data that substitutes Wi-Fi on phones. Data is information on a screen. This information can be anything from statistics of ‘disappearing’ buses to OCRs of old letters.

But what happens when human imperfection taints this information?

The most recent high stakes examples of this is the Venice Time Machine project. The Venice Time Machine project was established in 2012 by EPFL and University Ca’Foscari of Venice. The project’s primary goal has been to digitize an estimated 80kms of shelves in Venice’s state archive. Easy, right?

With a team of scholars and people with good intentions? Think again. Digitisation is a method of collecting data, which in Venice Time Machine’s case means years of transcribing scrawls, scanning about 190,000 documents, text processing medieval languages and organising a collection accessible to a wider audience that will stand the test of time for at least another 500 years.

Altogether this collection of documents ranging from addresses to financial transactions of the citizens of the time accumulated 8 Terabytes of data and meta-data, (the data behind these files), over 5 years of labour. If you Google the project an archive will not appear.

Instead, a Wikipedia page will pop up, maybe a Twitter and most definitely articles and blogs announcing its ‘data pause’ due to data usability disputes. Due to something

that seems such a simple addition to the workflow and methodology behind the archive. That something is following the archival-science guidelines. These guidelines can be narrowed down, according to ‘Authenticity of digital records: An archival diplomatics framework for digital forensics’ to: 1. The theory, procedure or process has been tested and the test is valid and repeatable 2. It has been subjected to peer review or publication (standard) 3. Its known or potential error rate is acceptable 4. It is generally accepted within the relevant scientific community Computer Scientist at EPFL sums this mistake up to a ‘misunderstanding’.

A very large misunderstanding.

But what is wrong with ‘dirty data’? Just about everything.

Not only can the validity of these documents be questioned, it is also a disservice to the thousands of documents that sit in the Venice archive everyday growing closer to becoming nothing more than dust. Once they are gone too far for even technology to recognise them, that is it.

Ten years before the Venice Time Machine project, Google embarked on the biggest book digitisation project of the time.

The goal was ground-breaking: create an online library by scanning millions of books, taking them off their shelves in third level libraries and preserving them online forever. Google was going to challenge physical

books with a process that took about 40 minutes and by developing the first means of digitizing books without causing damage.

With 20% of Larry Page’s time at Google and Marissa Mayer’s machine for turning books into data, the project made progress, 25 million books worth of progress. But this success was cut short of its goal of digital access by a copyright battle: Google versus Publishers and their Authors.

In Literature is Not Data, Marche describes this as ‘Instead of accepting the gift of digitization … literary people immediately set about doing what they do best: vapid, internecine squabbling.’

Squabbling did not equate to complete success. The database of 25 million books was abandoned somewhere, probably hidden under a Google slide. In 2004, Google Books was launched, a collection of books provided by publishers and authors. This allowed for innovations such as Google’s N-Gram Viewer that uses the Google Books catalogue to map the frequency of an inputted word from texts between 1500s to 2008.

Will the squabbling effecting the Venice Time Machine project amount to anything that the public can benefit from? Other than a valuable lesson on the importance and tricky business of data? The value has yet to be seen. For now, the world can rely on the Cork County Archives for a look into the past: http://www. corkarchives.ie/ This journalist highly recommends the archive’s collection: Anthony Barry Photographic Archive 1960s-1970s.

Ethanol and hydrochlorides are impotent to your cognitive malaise and psychological toxicities.

Into the coffin of l’amour toujours I toss your acidic fragments.

To bury memories is to unearth fresh soil, Space for new flowers to blossom unchained.

Lashes to ashes Lust to dust Your poison now buried; in ink I trust.

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Opinion

Issue 5 | Tuesday 12th Nov 2019 | University Express

The EU’s Response to the Refugee Crisis: A Crisis of Solidarity Writes Elisha Carey, Opinion’s Editor Between the horrific discovery of 39 dead bodies on board a lorry in Essex late last month and the EU parliament’s rejection of a resolution aimed at improving search and rescue efforts for migrants in the Mediterranean, the European migrant crisis has once again dominated our news waves.

Desperate people are more than prepared to take life-threatening routes in their search for a better life. This has been spelled out for us time and again and the EU’s system for migrant allocation, The Dublin Regulation, only exacerbates this. Dublin demands the first country a migrant arrives in to assume responsibility for that particular migrant. This system is problematic and has actually served to promote the taking of dangerous backdoor routes that has led to the deaths of thousands of migrants as well as putting an unfair strain on the countries on the frontline of the crisis. Member States’ refusal to cooperate and collaborate on Dublin’s reform has seen the forming of a new sub-crisis: a crisis of solidarity.

I’m going to put my hands up and admit that, despite being a law student, I actually know very little about EU law (sorry Mr. Declan Walsh) but I think there’s aspects to this regulation that would strike even us lay-people as simply wrong. Here I attempt a quick ‘Guide for Dummies’ style run- down on its fatal flaws…

Under the Dublin Regulation, Italy, Greece, Malta and Spain are disproportionately impacted due to their location at the frontline of major migratory routes. Dublin doesn’t work fairly and the distribution of migrants amongst solely the Southern countries clearly benefits the North. Countries like Italy and Greece are well known entry points into the EU for migrants escaping worsening conditions in Syria, Libya and other North African countries. Entry points are, by default, countries-of-first-arriv-

al, ensuring that the burden on these countries is always significantly higher than those further away from the action like Ireland and the UK. The Independent reported last month that refugee flows into Greece, in particular have risen by 200 percent in just the last five months. The Refugee Crisis never went away.

We just stopped talking about it.

It’s plain to see that Greece and Italy, in particular, have been struggling with the mass influx of migrants to their shores. With the recent spike in migrants entering Greece, the centres that receive and identify migrants are overflowing. A camp in Katsikas originally intended to house 300 migrants is currently housing 1,000. The conditions at camps such as these are reported as being appalling with their inhabitants living in tents and complaining of long queues for food, showers and even toilet facilities.

Greece has simply received more migrants than its civil service and infrastructure can handle.

Italy has found itself in a similar situation. In accordance with Dublin, migrants who initially entered the EU through Italy but who since travelled North are being sent back to the country in their droves. In 2013, for example, Italy received a third of all migrants who were transferred from another Member State.

It’s hard to understand why, when conjuring up a system for migration within the EU, the EU did not come up with a system that fairly and evenly distributes the responsibility for migrants in the first place. Now that a system is in place that benefits countries furthest away from the frontline, it’s hard to get their approval on a reform model when that reform model will likely thrust responsibilities on them, where before they had practically none. The question of fairer distribution of migrants has been on the table since the 1990’s. Greece, Italy and

other Southern countries have been near constantly demanding solidarity from their fellow Member States on this issue but to date, the unfair Dublin System still stands. November 2017 saw a proposal that teased some positive reform was on the horizon: the European Parliament proposed that migrants without genuine links to a particular country should be free to choose between the four Member States that have “received the lowest number of applicants”. Under this regime, the relocation share of each Member State would be calculated so that “larger and wealthier countries will have a larger share than smaller and less wealthy countries.” This seems to me to be a really equitable way of moving towards resolving the various crises but alas, the bold proposal eventually gathered dust in the current political climate.

There’s nobody defending the Dublin System but Member States’ refusal to agree on its reform really showcases how reluctant some countries are to receive an equal portion of the burden of the migration crisis. A migration official in Brussels recently com-

mented, “migration has broken the trust lines … coastal countries like Greece, Italy, and Spain do not trust other member states that they will help with arrivals and the main countries of asylum in Europe do not trust the Mediterranean countries that they will register the arrivals”. If the EU cannot come up with a fairer way of migrant allocation soon, the whole union will suffer the consequences. We need migrant relocation quotas for each Member State, to get migrants out of countries that are obviously struggling to cope and into countries that are simply not taking their fair share. This concept is at the heart of all reform suggestions but has been ignored by the European Council to date. Luigi Achilli, Marie Curie Fellow at the Robert Schuman Centre of the European University Institute in Florence eloquently sums up the issue: “let’s not be mistaken” Achilli says “it is not migration that is putting at risk the future of the European Union, it is rather the incapacity of developing a common political answer to migration based on solidarity principles and balanced responsibilities.”

Opinion

Issue 5 | Tuesday 12th Nov 2019 | University Express

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Self-Care B.S.

Writes Elisha Carey, Opinion’s Editor

Historically, when confronted with a minor inconvenience, such as receiving a rejection email in response to a job application or finding out that the hot guy in my Torts tutorial already has a girlfriend, I would always face into the same battle with myself: what will my chosen method of #selfcare be this time? I could order a mega box from Lemon Tree and devour it on my own, ultimately leaving all of my organs screaming for help. I could spend half my food budget for the week on a fruity face mask from Lush that will result in me breaking out horrifically, or I could turn my location off on Snapchat and spend the night drinking a bottle of rosé on the floor of my room alone, convinced there’s nobody out there who truly loves me.

These options all sound absolutely dire, don’t they? But as our concept of what self-care has shifted and changed, these could all indeed fall under what I like to call ‘Instagram self-care’: the current, internet-generated version of self-care that is mostly viewed through the lens of what can give us immediate gratification. This phenomenon has really taken off recently. My own social media feed is filled nightly with images of bubble baths, inhumanly large bars of Cadbury Dairy Milk or the Netflix home screen all with ‘self-care’ etched neatly across them. This form of self-care teeters dangerously along the line between actual self-care and sim-

ple “treat yo’self”. It has more to do with the “self” part than any actual “care” at all. This is a rather narrow interpretation of what self-care actually is. Characterising the entire notion of self-care purely by things that feel immediately good rather than those that can do good long-term is really superficial and oftentimes can cause more harm than good.

This kind of self-care can hurt your body, mind and pocket.

After a tough week or when feeling down in general, it’s easy to turn to junk food as a comfort. You’ve earned it after all. We’re all guilty of finishing off the whole pizza when half probably would’ve done the trick. It’s a quick fix, but it isn’t self-care. So why do I constantly see posts proclaiming it to be? It goes back to our linking of self-care with immediate satisfaction. While eating a whole pizza feels so good in the moment, it does your insides a deep injustice.

Similarly, the last thing you want to do after a tough week or when feeling down is to be active. Getting out there and moving your body can be daunting at the best of times and besides, those dramatic stretches you took at your desk in the Fishbowl during today’s fourhour study stint probably burned at least 50 calories, right? Hmm maybe not. Skipping the gym to take a nap feels like self-care. I, personally, am convinced it gives off more endorphins than actually going to the gym does, but exercise is an essential part of a

healthy and balanced lifestyle.

It’s worrying, the sheer volume of posts online that frame switching off your phone, not replying to text messages and generally just shutting people out as ‘self-care’.

Instagram urges you to purge anyone whose ~vibes ~ don’t match your own. This interpretation of self-care is particularly dangerous. I’m well aware there’s a large body of people that strive off being alone, but for many, cutting yourself off from all other humans can be quite harmful.

Stephen Ilardi PhD says “social withdrawal amplifies the brain’s stress response. Social contact helps put the brakes on it.” Sometimes a better self-care option is reaching out to friends and family.

That’s not to say that cutting toxic people out of your life isn’t an entirely valid form of self-care. It is.

Just make sure you’re not cutting out everyone and their mother.

Some of our knee-jerk reactions to sadness, stress or simply having a tough week, involve dropping money we don’t have on transient items we don’t need and calling it self-care. I’m definitely guilty of this. In this way the concept of self-care has become linked with capitalism. Aisling McCrea sums it up well “self-care slots in neatly with capitalism, treating mental ill-health as an individual problem divorced from material and political context, to be solved by pulling ourselves up by our bootstraps and maybe spending a little money on the way. We are invited to draw inwards, shut

our curtains; pull ourselves into movies and food and warm water and blankets. “ I identify with the allure of draining all your savings in order to buy those ridiculously large white shoes everybody has or to invest in a spa day at the Kingsley but if it means you won’t be able to afford food next week, it’s arguably an irresponsible action to take. It’s like I’ve already established, sometimes the real self-care feels worse in the moment and better later on.

Keeping the 2.75 you were going to spend on a hot chocolate to cheer yourself up and saving it for a rainy day may well be the self-care you didn’t know you needed. I’m just about the worst person to preach this, but your financial health is important too.

It can’t be thrown to the wayside just because you had a bad day.

We need to redefine our understanding of self-care to include things that maybe don’t feel the best in the moment but have a good pay off later on. We must also start recognising when we are simply using self-care as an excuse to treat ourselves. Treat yourself all you want, just acknowledge that it may not be actively contributing any actual good to your life. I like Shannon Keating’s take on it: “life is hard and the world is on fire; maybe we deserve to indulge in some good old simple pleasures.” So, by all means, look after yourself, treat yourself, whatever.

Just be sure you’re not neglecting future you in the process.

BYLINE Leahy Photos

Editorial

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byline@uccexpress.ie

Gaeilge

Hugh Ă“ Raghallaigh Mac Gearailt

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INTERVIEW

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An Interview with Junior Brother Writes Fiona O’ Connell, Music Editor

Ronan Kealy aka Junior Brother is arguably one of the most exciting emerging talents Ireland has produced over the last few years. With a wide range of celebrity fans from Cillian Murphy to Blindboy Boatclub, the Kerry native has won over the nation with his alternative yet entirely endearing folk music. Having released his debut album ‘Pull the Right Rope’ earlier this year, the twenty four year old secured nominations for both Album of the Year and Best New Emerging Artist at RTÉ’s Folk Awards. In fact it was through these nominations that Michael Healy Rae sent a letter to the star’s house to congratulate him, allowing the star to enter a self-deemed “unique state known as ‘Peak Kerry’”. I was lucky enough to get to chat to Ronan about his whirlwind year, his musical inspirations, and his next venture to the real capital!

a very rural upbringing. When asked about the significance of his home place on both his songwriting as well as his own personal development, he states that not only was it hugely important, he has tried to capture it in his melody writing. “I would say the main reason my music sounds the way it does is through initially trying to capture the atmosphere of the fields and forests of my parish.

Maybe in spending all my time as a youngster stranded in my house, I absorbed a deep sense of my surroundings which I only began to feel potently after I left home”. He continues to compare the organic sound of his music to his rural home environment citing his home place as the reason he pursued such a sound. “I became more drawn to music which conveyed a rural atmosphere, and I think folk music of all kinds conveys rural landscapes inherently”

A Kilcummin native, Ronan had

An element of Junior Brother’s

music and songwriting that is evident from the off is that the twenty four year old has a very distinct style of writing. While one could argue that his musical influences can be heard in his melodies (the likes of Joanna Newsom and Damien Dempsey come to mind), I wondered, having studied English here in UCC, whether there were any writers outside the realm of music that he drew particular inspiration from “For a while I got into only reading stuff from the Middle Ages or Renaissance period, in order to get an archaic vocabulary running in my head which I could draw from in an unforced and organic way.

Also important were Brendan Behan, Patrick Kavanagh, Joyce, Flann O’ Brien and Kevin Barry” The topics and emotions explored in Junior Brother’s music are plentiful. Through the use of catchy, and entirely rhythmic vocals as featured on the open-

ing track of the album ‘Coping’, the twenty four year old explores ideas of love, loss, as well as the notion of self. A prominent lyrical theme present in his music is the idea of contrast regarding his own personal expectations and desires in comparison to the world around him and the conflicting emotions that ensue.

When asked about the intentionality of the exploration of such a theme, the star confessed that much of his music is born out of an uncomfortable or relatively unhappy place. “Well, it’s frustrating when circumstances beyond a person’s control prevent a person from reaching a goal or bettering themselves as a human - life in any environment is spent being shaped by such instances.

Many of my songs come from a place of frustration, so this theme of personal ideals conflicting with environment could probably be found in a lot of my songs”

19 Finding a unique sound or voice that you’re comfortable with can prove a challenge for many musicians. Knowing what it is that satisfies your needs musically whilst battling with fears or notions that no one else may understand or get it in the same way you do.

Luckily for JB, he recognised his sound was rather niche whilst remaining confident in his abilities in spite of the world around him.

“In my opinion, aiming to please everyone with your music is fundamentally pointless, as even the most commercial of music will still have legions of ardent haters as well as fans. So being a bit polarising is fine. Having said that, the more people engaged in your art, the better. To achieve that in my own way is the ultimate goal for me I suppose”.

Folk music as a genre, one could argue, is one that never entirely diminishes or explodes in terms of popularity in the way other genres go through periods of trendiness and relevance. However, I think it’s definitely fair to say that folk music as well as traditional music in Ireland is in a period of renaissance, and revival. This can be seen in the rise of acts such as Junior Brother himself, The Gloaming and Lankum for example, all

of whom are taking elements of traditional folk music and instrumental traditional music and revitalising it in terms of popularity and relevance. When asked about his favourite alternative folk artists or those who pushed the boat out in the same way he himself appears to be doing now, he cites a variety of favourites; “Lankum, who are doing truly extraordinary work in progressing folk and traditional music. The great TPM are, I think, linking the Irish lineage of balladry with Hip Hop in a deeply uniform and potent way, with their own music and with their ballad group The Mary Wallopers too” (For those interested in these stellar acts, TPM will be playing The Kino on the 29th November and Lankum play as part of Quiet Lights festival in St. Luke’s on 23rd!)

Behind every great musician is a strict work ethic; only with laborious hours of practice and relentless touring does one really reach the top of their game. Junior Brother has most certainly been adhering to this with a huge amount of solo shows, support gigs, as well as a wide array of festival slots all over the country over the past year including Knockanstockan, Body & Soul, and Electric Picnic. I was curi-

ous to gauge the folk singer’s perspective on festival slots and the contrast between both the crowds and the atmosphere to be found there as opposed to that at his own solo shows. Also - did he have a favourite? “Festival shows involve playing to people who are first-timers, so there is a sense of winning the crowd over a lot of the time, which is very nice. I really enjoyed It Takes a Village in Trabolgan.. everyone got their own houses in the holiday village, so it was like a lovely town full of legends for a weekend, and the weather was very very sunny and pleasant.

The lineup was also great. I can’t say enough good things about the festival, so I’ll stop here, before the organizer’s heads inflate and burst like big balloons” Coincidentally the organisers of said festival are the same bunch that booked JB for his next Cork gig in The Kino! The pair took over the beloved Cork City venue very recently but have already booked a huge range of stellar gigs for the upcoming months. Junior Brother’s gig in the venue is in coordination with the Quiet Lights festival taking place in the city from 22nd-24th November. A weekend dedicated to shedding light on some of the country’s finest folk

and traditional musicians, JB is in wonderful company over the three day weekend with the likes of the afore-mentioned Lankum, Cormac Begley, Elaine Malone, Eve Clague, and Lemoncello all taking centre stage at various cosy venues around the city. I was curious to see if the star would have a chance to catch any of the wonderful shows taking place over the weekend or whether it would be an ‘in-and-out kind of job’, typical of a touring musician “I’ll be coming down on the day of the gig so will only get to see the acts on the day. But I’m probably most excited to see John Francis Flynn, who is opening up before I play at 5.30pm on the Sunday evening.

I’m a big fan of his and everyone should keep the ears pricked for his music which is incoming in recorded form imminently” 2019 has certainly been a milestone year for Junior Brother with the release of his debut album, nominations for RTÉ’s Folk Awards, and nationwide tours.

With no sign of slowing down, the future is looking bright for the twenty four year old who through the use of an acoustic guitar, pounding tambourine, and thick Kerry accent is taking the Irish folk scene by storm.

Food and Health

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The Rule of Soup Writes John Barker, Head Chef

‘Soup and sandwich combos’ haunt the menus of cafes across our country. A dated tradition which may never set your world on fire but will also never fail to set our hearts aglow in a warm, comforting way, just like a log fire in winter. Speaking of, all of a sudden ‘tis the season and we would quite happily welcome such a bowl of goodness.

So rather than a recipe, this snippet serves more so like a rule; the rule of soup. A simple formula to never forget so that you’ll always find a use for your left-over vegetables whilst always keeping you topped up on all the benefits vegetables can bring to your diet.

So right now, put out your hand, and use your fingers to visualize the next stage.

-The five-part rule: one part onion, one part potato and three parts whatever the hell flavour you

want your soup to be. Easy as that.

So, let’s take carrot for example.

-Roughly chop an onion. Sweat it off in a pot with a little olive oil.

-Once it has broken down and softened, slice up your potato and add it into the pot. At this point you may need another splash of oil. Allow it to colour a little (this is all flavour).

-Then simply peel your carrots, chop them up and pop them into the pot too. Give them 5 or 10 minutes to fry in the oil (again, flavour), before adding in just enough boiling water or stock to cover the contents.

-Once added, bring everything to a boil and continue to cook until all the vegetables are soft and easily pierced with a knife (20-30 minutes).

-At that point you’re ready. Blitz it all up in a food processor, or with a stick blender, or get cre-

ative - you’re a student after all.

-All that’s left to do then is to season: that’s adding salt and pepper to suit your own taste, or any other herbs, nuts or seeds. It is now that you can change your carrot soup to carrot and walnut, or carrot and sesame or whatever funky combinations you may desire.

It’s all that simple. There are no specific quantities of how much to put in above, and intentionally so. It’s about confidence and personal taste. Add the amount of stock that you like, it simply changes the consistency: thin soup or thick soup. Use one onion or use a whole bag of onions and match the other ingredients accordingly. Soup freezes well once there’s no dairy, and will also keep well in your fridge to keep you going for days. Not only that, but if you are on the phone to your mum and you tell her

that you’re making soup, she will be so reassured that you’re doing just fine out there on your own.

So, as you look out at the bare trees and constant rainfall, grab your blanket and your bowl and cosy up for the evening. It’s assignment season: you deserve it.

Editor: Katie Kelly

Season’s Eatings Writes John Barker, Head Chef

It pains me to say goodbye to Halloween as I sit here, a mere shell, post numerous spooky parties and nights of costume changes.

Yet we only have to take a walk down our main street to know the world is well and truly over the season of horror and is fully immersed in, dare I say it, Christmas. Although it gets earlier and earlier every year, it’s really only after October 31st that we feel permitted to begin embracing it. Personally, I’d love to hold off a little longer, but alas, now is the time to share my tradition in the name of gift-giving on a budget and planning ahead.

It started years ago, on my first Christmas as a rent payer, but also as an assumed adult. Rent and bills did not allow for the usual obnoxious expenditure on presents so I got thrifty and jars were the key. They can be bought relatively inexpensively, either online or in any of the discount shops, and then you just have to fill them. Cooking has given me a multitude of options for contents between sauces, jams and pickles, to name but a few, and by starting now it gives some such chutneys and relishes time to mature, whilst also allowing you to get ahead of the December frenzy.

That particular year saw three little pots make their way to the tables of every uncle, aunt and neighbour whom were all in turn so impressed by the effort and sheer deliciousness of each of the condiments. So, in my war against supermarkets and their big round tubs of chocolates that get passed from house to house, I share with you the original

three recipes in the hope that kitchen tables across the country will all be adorned by such gifts.

Cranberry Sauce -Take 300g of fresh cranberries and put in a pot.

-Add 4 tablespoons of water and bring to the boil.

-After about 10 minutes, when the cranberries have burst, take off the heat and stir through 150g of caster sugar.

-Cool and transfer to sterilised jars*.

Cucumber Pickle -Thinly slice three cucumbers and one white onion.

-In a pot, bring 100g of sugar, 500 ml of water and 100 ml of white wine vinegar to a boil until the sugar has dissolved and take off the heat.

-Cool the above pickling liquid and pour it over the cucumber and onion mix.

-Transfer to sterilised jars*.

Chocolate Caramel Sauce -In a pan, melt 200g of dark chocolate, 500g of butter and 500g of brown caster sugar.

-Take off the heat and whisk in 500ml of cream and 1 teaspoon of Maldon sea salt (optional but so yum).

-Cool and transfer to sterilised jars*.

*How to sterilise your jars: -Put the jars and lids separately into a pan of boiling water and leave for 5 minutes.

-Turn your oven to 120 degrees and transfer to jars to the oven to dry them out at a low temperature for 15-20 minutes.

-Done.

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A Hasty, Tasty History of Scones

Writes Laura A. Edgerton, Ballymaloe Graduate We dream about the ultimate scone: still warm, lashed with golden butter, spoonfuls of cream and smeared with a juicy berry jam. You’ll find scones at almost every café, restaurant and petrol station in Ireland. And despite the fact that many people think scones are a definitively Irish food, they actually originated in Scotland in the 1500s as round griddle cakes. In the 1800s, baked scones, as we know them today, started making appearances at newly fashionable afternoon teas in England. Despite their UK origins, scones at their warm core, are considered uniquely Irish, with tourists seeking them out and locals fighting over where you can get the best one. A reason for their immense popularity, besides being delicious, is the speed in which they can be made; they are considered a quick bread and don’t need to rise. Scones can be made inexpensively and in less than a half hour, and are perfect accompaniment to your first, second or third cup of Barry’s. As for how scones got their name, there are two competing theories: 1 – the Scottish stone of destiny, where kings were crowded or 2 – the Dutch word

‘schoonbrot’ which means beautiful bread. Although we’ll likely never know the truth about the name origins both seem appropriate, exalting the humble scone to both beautiful and royal status.

Get your scone fix in Cork, with these top picks: • Best Deal: Dwyer’s of Cork offers one of the best deals in the city. For €3.00 you can pick any coffee or tea and indulge in a freshly baked scone with butter and jam.

• Best Traditional Scone: Head to Tara’s Tea Room for the €2.50 perfectly baked, sky high scone that comes with cream, butter and jam.

It is simple and perfect.

• Best Gourmet Scone: The Bookshelf serves up a €2.20 raspberry and white chocolate scone packed full of tart, ruby colored raspberries and balanced with creamy bursts of white chocolate.

Film & T.V.

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The Streaming Wars: Who will win? Who will lose?

Who even cares? Writes Eoghan Creedon, Film & TV Editor

November sees the launch of Disney’s new streaming service Disney+ in the US. This is set to start an entire new chapter in what has become known as the streaming wars.

This past decade has seen millions upon millions of people across the globe change their main form of entertainment viewing to at home streaming.

Gone are the days where you enter into a 14,000-year contract with a television service provider.

Gone are the days of sitting in the dirty and oddly sticky cinemas, where you pay your hard-earned money for overpriced tickets, overpriced food and are forced to listen to people outright having conversations at full volume.

Why would you pay all that money to have a terrible experience when you can pay a very reasonable amount to enjoy a great selection of movies and tv series in the comfort of your own home?

For the majority of the decade, there has been one outright favourite streaming service. Netflix. Surprisingly, Netflix has been operating a lot longer than most people think. Netflix was found-

ed in August of 1997 and began as a movie postal delivery service, sending you DVDs (remember them?) to your home before you would send it back to them. It had quite a large role in the downfall of movie rental shops (remember them too?). This was the origin of entertainment streaming. Obviously, people had been illegally downloading movies and tv shows since the beginning of the internet, but early Netflix was the example of almost legally streaming.

Netflix as we know it would not begin until 2007. This is the year streaming as we know it was born. Within a very short period of time, the at home movie experience would be turned on its head. As mentioned previously, it had a huge role in the downfall of movie rental shops. This is made more ironic when you learn that Blockbuster, perhaps the most globally recognisable video rental chain, had the opportunity to purchase Netflix in 2000 for $50 million. It is understandable why Blockbuster didn’t go through with the deal at the time. It was 2000. Movie rental shops were still a huge commodity and a very sustainable business model. Not

to mention that Blockbuster were top dogs in this market. However, in 2007, Netflix began streaming and Blockbuster went out of business 3 years later. Blockbuster had the opportunity to purchase Netflix for $50 million 19 years ago. Netflix is currently worth $116 billion. A poor move

by Blockbuster in hindsight.

Throughout the 2010s, Netflix’s main competitor has been Amazon Prime Video. Prime Video started back in 2008, however it gained its reputation in the middle of the 2010s. The services dominated the streaming market producing its own content while also gaining the streaming rights to network shows and major studio movies. Notable hits for the networks throughout the years include Stranger Things, Orange is the New Black, Fleabag and The Grand Tour just to name a few.

The success of these shows only helped garner more attention for the streaming services, hence getting them more subscribers.

Based on Netflix’s and Prime Video’s success, you would think that the concept of streaming was easy. Just produce quali-

ty shows on a relatively cheap budget and sit back and reap the awards. However, it hasn’t proved to be that easy for some.

While there has been notable success for streaming services, there have been significant failures.

Most notably, Yahoo Screen (Yahoo View in certain areas). That was the service best known for purchasing the rights to the hit show Community upon its cancellation after its fifth season.

Community was critical success for the previous seasons and was hailed as one of the best cult comedies of the previous decade.

Yahoo knew this and built their whole streaming service on having the rights to Community while producing its sixth season. Yahoo didn’t seem to realise that it takes years of groundwork to build a complex system like a streaming service and it takes even longer to build up an audience. While Community was a notable cult comedy, it was still only a cult comedy. It wasn’t known amongst the masses. Yahoo banking on all Community fans to subscribe to them for Community alone was a terrible idea and most certainly

Editor: Eoghan Creedon played out like one, as the fans did not subscribe, and Yahoo didn’t do enough to promote themselves to non-Community fans. Therefore, Yahoo Screen was dead before it had the chance to survive.

There have been numerous other streaming services which are surviving but not necessarily thriving.

CBS All Access and Hulu come to mind. However, 2019 and 2020 are set to see the streaming landscape completely changed with some of the world’s largest companies getting in on the action.

Most notably, Disney and Apple.

As mentioned at the top of this article, Disney are set to launch their very own streaming service, Disney+, this month in the US. The rest of the world will follow in the coming months. It is widely known now that Disney own pretty much everything in Hollywood. Its true. In March of this year, Disney purchased 20th Century Fox for over $71 billion. No, you didn’t misread that figure.

71 billion dollars! $71.3 billion to be exact. Disney now own Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, Fox televi-

sion networks like FX and National Geographic. This deal will also see the previously Fox owned marvel characters like the X-Men and Deadpool to cross over to the MCU. Good news for all you comic book movie nerds. These individual franchises are multi million, in some cases, multi-billion-dollar entities on their own.

Now Disney house them under one roof in the House of Mouse. It won’t be long until they make back their $71.3 billion investment.

Disney were very smart and strategic about their streaming network. Disney announced they were working on their own streaming service back in 2017, the same time they entered talks with 20th Century Fox regarding the eventual acquisition. This allowed Disney around a year and a half to plan and promote their streaming service. Take notes Yahoo. Once the deal was finalised with Fox, the hype train was set in motion.

Disney pulled all their Marvel shows and movies from Netflix, so to have all Marvel entities in the one place, Disney+. These Marvel shows and movies were a

huge asset to Netflix. Before they even launched, Disney significantly weakened one of their major competitors. Mickey Mouse is brutal.

Apple also decided to dip their toe into the pool of streaming services.

On November 1st they launched Apple TV+. (On a side note, these streaming service names are terrible). Apple invested an estimated $6 billion into their streaming service, according to cnet.com.

The service launched with 9 shows initially and is set to add more in the near future. Its marquee show is The Morning Show, which sees Hollywood powerhouses Jennifer Anniston and Reece Witherspoon team up as co leads as well as co producers to present a dramatic take on the lives of morning talk show hosts. A bit rogue if you ask me, but those two are seasoned veterans and have everyone’s trust and belief in them.

An honourable mention in the streaming wars goes to HBO Max. HBO have produced quality programming for years now, most notably Game of Thrones. This streaming service seems to have gone under the radar a bit. Understandably when they are competing to

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get to market against the juggernauts that are Disney and Apple.

Also, a quick dishonourable mention to NBC’s streaming service; Peacock. Yes, that is actually the name that they chose for their streaming service. Peacock. So now, if you’re in America and you want to watch the US Office, you can’t see it on Netflix anymore. No no. You need to get yourself a subscription… to Peacock.

Go home NBC. You’re drunk.

So that was a run down of the 17 trillion streaming services that are or will be available to us in the future. The streaming wars have been heating up for months now and are finally set to commence when Disney+ launches in the US on November 12th. Who do you think will win the streaming wars? Do you even care? Probably not.

One thing is for sure though.

The winner of the streaming wars will most certainly not be Peacock. Cop on NBC.

Music

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Lonerism - The Solitary Genius of Kevin Parker Writes Fiona O’ Connell, Music Editor

With the unbelievably exciting news that Tame Impala have finished a new record due for release in early 2020, there couldn’t be a more fitting time to explore and analyse the sonic world the band have created over the last twelve years. A cult favourite in a genre of their own, the band have been pretty busy releasing a number of chart-topping albums and touring the world. Heavily synth-led psychedelic rock, the band have created an entirely unique sound that they have managed to master in the process of trying new things and adding new elements to their musical soundscape. While it’s more common to refer to Tame Impala as a group comprising of instrumentalists in equal part, the reality is that the band would not and could not exist without frontman Kevin Parker. Not only did Parker form the band and write the songs for them to play, Parker has been writing, recording, and producing every song the band has ever released for the last twelve years. An astonishing feat, it cannot be denied that Parker is a musical machine and essentially a one-man band (until it comes to performing live). To understand the true genius of Tame Impala’s frontman, it is important to relay the band’s musical history as well as their discography, all of which has contributed to the rise of one of today’s biggest bands.

Born in Perth, Kevin Parker’s parents divorced at the tender age of three which resulted in Parker moving into his Dad’s house permanently. By the age of thirteen Parker had mastered the drums as well as the guitar showcasing both musical talent and versatility. Reminiscing on a musical upbringing, Parker has noted that there were always instruments as well as records laying around the house as a child which both encouraged his decision to play as well as influencing his musical tastes. As Parker approached adolescence, he became more introspective and introverted, finding comfort in music and the process of creating something in isolation.

This overwhelming desire to create lead to a quick accumulation of music which would become Parker’s musical back catalogue.

After part-taking in various bands and musical endeavours, Parker finally released a self-titled Tame Impala EP in 2008 of which he wrote, recorded, and produced each and every sound we hear on that record. It was at this point that Parker really began to discover his sound which was deemed ‘psychedelic rock’ at the time but one can argue that it is difficult to ignore the pop influences in Parker’s sound, even from the very beginning. What was also present from the very beginning was the psychedelic-alluding colourful visuals for which Parker clearly had great affection for. The combination of both this unique sound and visually interesting musical project made for a hugely successful debut. Off the back of the EP, Parker formed the band to play with him for live gigs, and the band began to tour the country.

An element that quite clearly stands out in Tame Impala’s music is their focus on mood creation through music - an element of modern music that I feel is quite underrated and underutilised.

This can be seen just as clearly on the band’s first and second studio albums ‘Interspeaker’ which was released in May 2010, and ‘Lonerism’ which was released in October 2012. Parker has spoken in various interviews about his love for pop music in that it’s just pure feelings, something he has tried to mirror in part in his own music making. “The only thing that really shines through [in my music] is the way they’re constructed and the kind of feeling they give off”.

This kind of atmospheric creation can only be created in this way through relentless mixing, editing, and musical craftsmanship all of which Parker has mastered through hours of solitary work. This kind of work isn’t for everyone - there’s a reason Parker is considered both a musical genius and a total perfectionist.

Parker has quite clearly struggled with his perfectionist nature in relation to his work - “[that’s] the crucifying thing about making music on your own is that there’s no one to say when it’s finished or not so you can just go completely crazy”. ‘Lonerism’ is an album that reflects on the idea of solitude as a concept and feeling like a bit of an outsider. The album as an entity feels like a reflection on Parker’s solitary work. Through tracks such as ‘Feels Like We Only Go Backwards’ and ‘Elephant’, Parker creates a perfect sonic space in which to explore these conflicting emotions of enjoying the solitary process and being driven demented by the sound of the same chord progression on repeat for hours upon end.

After the release of two studio albums that had been named Album of the Year by both The Rolling Stone and Triple J, it is hard to imagine Parker could possibly have self-esteem issues when it came to his songwriting. However, in the run up to the release of the band’s third album ‘Currents’, Parker confessed that he felt the music he had created was ‘entirely unlistenable’. Was this merely the result of hours spent obsessing over minor details? Or is the issue more with the total isola-

tion associated with the extensive workload? While Parker’s obsessive and perfectionist nature has most certainly provided for three albums worth of catchy, psychedelic, and entirely unique soundscapes, the question must be asked - what is the price Parker himself pays to write, record, produce, and mix the whole lot in entire isolation? Whilst he himself, and perhaps the rest of the world may argue that musically, it’s for the best, and is the reason the band are where they are today, the risk of one’s sanity must be taken into account when pondering creating music to the scale of that of Tame Impala on one’s own.

In spite of all of this, Parker’s workaholic tendencies do not seem to have wavered as in 2019 we were treated to three new Tame Impala lead singles. With the release of the latest single ‘It Might Be Time’, the band announced the upcoming release of their eagerly anticipated fourth studio album ‘The Slow Rush’ in February 2020. While Parker’s obsessive and perfectionist relationship with his work may not be the healthiest in terms of balance and workload, it is seemingly obvious that there is nothing Parker would rather devote his time to, and all the luckier we, his dedicated fanbase, are for it!

Editor: Fiona O’ Connell

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Quiet Lights Festival 2019 - A Focus on the Soft on Wintery Evenings

By Fiona O’ Connell, Music Editor

In its second year of existence ‘Quiet Lights’ is a festival that aims to give a platform to new waves of both Irish traditional and folk music. Taking place from the 22nd-24th November in the heart of Cork City, this festival is unique in both its outlook and aims. The beautiful venues in use throughout the threeday festival are sure to tackle that I-can’t-feel-my-toes kind of weather, and darker evenings!

Friday 22nd For a festival that is still in its infancy, the lineup for the three days is second to none. Kicking things off on, the acclaimed Cormac Begley and Liam O’Connor

take to the stage of St. Peter’s church. The teaming up of one of Ireland’s leading fiddle players with one of the country’s most popular concertina players is sure to be a knockout traditional performance in a unique and intimate setting. This gig is also being marketed as part of the FUAIM concert series which takes place in UCC every Friday afternoon and is only €10 entry.

Saturday 23rd On evening Dublin-based Lankum play the gorgeous St. Luke’s as one of the festival’s headline acts. For those who are unaware of the blossoming quartet, Lankum blur the line between experimental and folk to create an entirely

unique sound. It was this rare, enticing sound that got the band signed to Rough Trade records who saw the experimental, almost punk side to the traditional folk band who’s persistent uilleann pipe drone could be compared to the feedback from an electric guitar. Tickets for this gig are on the pricier side at €27 but the chance to see this quickly rising experimental yet traditional band in such a perfectly fitting venue doesn’t come around too often.

Sunday 24th It would be rude not to mention one of the brightest upcoming talents in the folk realm, the wonderful Junior Brother (this week’s byline interview!) takes

to the stage of The Kino for what is set to be a perfect closing to 2019’s Quiet Lights. The Kerry native has had an utterly triumphant year with his eclectic mix of alternative upbeat as well as stunningly bare folk-influenced tunes. With tickets at only a tenner a pop, be sure to head down to witness one of Ireland’s greatest emerging folk talents in one of the best new venues in Cork.

The gorgeous venues include the cosy Coughlans, and entirely intimate Upstairs at The Roundy and The Chapel at Griffith College, all in keeping with the promise of warmth and light through beautiful music on cold Winter nights.

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Photos

Issue 5 | Tuesday 12th Nov 2019 | University Express

Top: Advanced Contemporary Team Left: Choral soc committee, society members donated food for UCC SVP Bottom: Caitriona Crowley and Darragh Roberts as Troy and Gabriella

by Eve Harrington, University Express Photographer

Issue 5 | Tuesday 12th Nov 2019 | University Express

Autumn vibes on University College Cork Campus

by Caoimhe Leahy University Express Photographer

Photos

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SEXPRESS

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Answer (a) for ‘Ass-hole’ Writes Evan Lynch, Sexpress Writer

A comprehensive and scientific questionnaire intended to aid men in figuring out whether they are, in-fact, the problem.

1) You and your friends are approaching the nightclub you plan to attend; however, your glass drinks receptacle is not yet empty. What do you do? a) Chug the drink as quickly as your oesophagus will allow before publicly smashing the glass, thus establishing dominance within the group and demonstrating physical prowess to any and all potential sexual partners. b) Throw the drink in the nearest bin, making a mental note to improve time management for future reference. c) Share the remainder of the drink evenly amongst your group and seek out the nearest glass recycling depot, taking this time to plan and practise the speech about the eco-Marxist revolution which you will inevitably deliver later in the night.

2) Most of your group have made it past the bouncers and have followed the

scent of Jaeger and sweat towards the dancefloor of the nightclub, however one of the women in your group hasn’t been admitted on account of a drastic haircut since taking her ID photo. What do you do? a) Follow the group into the jaws of the nightclub, leaving your now ex-friend alone, drunk and vulnerable in the chaos of the street, leaving her only a text that reads “text me when ur home” to defend herself. b) Wait with her and try to convince the bouncer that she didn’t always have a fringe, walking her to a taxi office or nearby pub to find another group of friends if the man is not convinced. c) Round up your entire friend group to stage a dramatic storming out of the venue, having each member inform the bouncer in question to expect a harshly worded email.

3) You’re finally dancing with the girl you’ve been hoping to shift all night.

She looks great, her dress is brand new from Zara and her glittery eye shadow is glowing. You decide to make your move.

a) Tell her she’s a ride and blame her when that doesn’t work. Dance intrusively close to her so she has essentially no choice but to touch off you, and then choose to perceive this as flirty behaviour. Unexpectedly lunge for her face in a Shock-and-Awe style courting technique. When she dodges your initial advance, incessantly repeat the same motions over and over until she outright flees to a safe distance from your drunken slobber. Alternatively, just call her names and make her self-conscious for not automatically wanting to kiss you.

If this doesn’t make her want you, it will at least make her cry which is apparently also a win for you. b) Tell her how good she looks. Tell her that you want to kiss her. When she says no, accept that she’s just vibing on the dancefloor and let her do her own thing. Appreciate her friendship if it is offered. c) Never build up the courage to say anything to her but become her good friend instead.

Eventually forget that you ever had romantic designs and enjoy your healthy platonic friendship.

4) You’re on the way to the toilet for a much-needed pit stop when you spot a woman leaning against

the wall blinking at the bright phone screen in her hand. She is clearly drunk and attempting to contact her friends. What do you do? a) Use her inebriation as an opportunity. Lean in suddenly and apply your clunky, barren charm. Push yourself into her and kiss her before her alcohol addled reflexes have the chance to intervene.

Now that you’ve successfully sexually assaulted her, you can gloat to your friends about your sexual excellence, while insisting that your streak will go unbroken till the end of time and that you are a low-level deity. b) Ask her if she’s okay, whether she needs a hand finding her friends or if she wants a glass of water. Recognising that she’s vulnerable, respect that she may not want your help and notify a member of staff if you’re concerned for her safety. c) Ask for her name and proceed to ask every other soul in the nightclub if they know Lauren from pre-med. When the friend-group is found, chastise each member individually for not taking care of such a gem, to whom you’ve now developed a parental-like affection.

Editor: Caoimhe battault 5) Look! One of your friends has gotten the shift! He’s sitting in a booth next to the dancefloor with his beautiful and completely consenting kissing companion. We love to see it. However, things appear to be developing at an alarming pace and graphic scenes may follow. Do you? a) Absolutely use this opportunity to increase your digital profile. Record and instantly publish a shaky video of the couple’s blossoming sexual endeavours onto the internet for all who follow you to see.

Don’t worry about whether either party are comfortable with this, as he’s a good mate and you know he’ll see the funny side. b) Ignore their pawing and simply enjoy your bop on the dancefloor, keeping a subtle eye out for any behaviour which might get them thrown out/impregnated/imprisoned. c) Observe from a safe distance so as not to disturb them. You allow a bashful

smile to spread across you face as you shake your head slowly and mutter “you’ve done it again, kid”. If you wish to capture the moment, make a quick sketch on a nearby napkin and slip it into your friend’s pocket as you pass by. He knows that he has your undying support.

6) You notice that a woman you have been chatting to in the smoking area all night has brushed off your hand numerous times and has made several seconds of full-on eye-contact at a time. By God I think you’re on to something. She leans in and asks you back to her house, what do you do? a) Say yes without a moment’s consideration because, let’s face it, it doesn’t happen to you every-day and that dryspell you’ve been joking about for the last while is secretly twice as long as you claim it is. Leave without informing any of your friends where you’re going and follow her to her house. Get straight to business once you’re indoors,

paying little-to-no attention to what she’s telling you she wants. What would she know anyway? You’re the sexpert here. Once you’ve delivered your own goods, either fall directly to sleep or else reclothe yourself and go home.

When she tries to contact you a few days later, ghost her entirely and tell your friends it was bad sex because she was weird and probably a virgin anyway. This will almost definitely deflect their attention away from the fact that you had zero interest in her as a sexual partner and lasted four minutes in missionary with your jocks still around your ankles. Job done. b) Make sure that you are positive that you want to go back to hers before accepting. Send your mate a text letting him know what’s up (he won’t see it until the club closes anyway because he’s in that booth for the long-haul), before walking with her back to her house. You take the time to learn a bit about her on the way in the hope that this will open and lubricate the channels of communication between you. Listen to

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every god-damn thing she says and be as generous as you’re physically able. If/ when you end up at the finish-line a little prematurely do not assume that the entire encounter is finished, you’re only human (and you’ve got a tongue for a reason). If you enjoyed yourself, keep in touch and thank her for the experience. If not, explain that you’re not too interested in continuing anything and thank her anyway. That’s just common courtesy. c) Panic and explain that you can’t because you have a non-existent partner and that you must get home tonight anyway to check up on your non-existent Jack-Russel because he gets anxious when you leave the house for too long. When she asks for your number, give her the number of a nearby sushi restaurant (the only number you know by heart, including your own). Go home as soon as you’ve lost her in the crowd of the nightclub and spend the night peering through your bedroom blinds. Never return to that night-club again.

If you have answered (a) to any of these questions, give yourself a long look in the mirror and call your mother and apologise.

Gaming

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Riot Games and Blizzard: Rivals in Controversy (and for our Hearts) Writes Jack Coleman, Gaming Editor

2019 has so far been a tumultuous year for two of the gaming industry’s biggest players, Riot Games and Activision-Blizzard.

Their situations are similar in many ways, they were both beloved by their communities, they both faced major controversies, and now both companies have announced their huge plans to shake up the online gaming world in the coming years. These two giants have been compared and contrasted consistently over the years by the media and others, and now it seems that the pair will be major rivals for the hearts of gamers in the near future.

Riot Games faced major public backlash over the course of the past year due to a slew of sexism and sexual abuse scandals emerging from the company. As originally reported by Kotaku, several female employees at Riot felt they were treated unfairly when it came to salary, promotions and the acknowledgement of their ideas.

Gender discrimination was purportedly rampant at Riot Games.

Worse still was the reported sexual abuse occurring at Riot, such as leadership passing around lists of which female employees they would most like to sleep with and

official work emails being used to discuss sex with co-workers.

Company COO Scott Gelb was temporarily suspended from his post after it was revealed that he regularly flicked the testicles and farted in the faces of his co-workers as a practical joke. In August of this year, a class-action lawsuit against Riot was settled but only after significant media attention and a public walkout by some of the company’s employees.

Blizzard, on the other hand, faced enormous community backlash over their decision to ban Hong Kong professional “Hearthstone” player Ng Wai “Blitzchung” Chung from official competition after he voiced his support for the Hong Kong protestors on an official Blizzard stream. The backlash was so intense that a bi-partisan letter was sent by the U.S Congress to the company criticising their decision. Many consumers of Blizzard products also decided to publicly delete their accounts in protest of the company’s actions. Blizzard would eventually reduce the severity of Blitzchung’s punishment, though they maintained their weak overall stance that politics suddenly have no place on their streams. It’s clear that both com-

panies needed to do something exciting to win back and energise their communities. And they did.

On October 27th 2019, Riot’s sole creation “League of Legends” turned ten years old and the company planned a blockbuster celebration for its community. The 10th-anniversary “Riot Pls” live stream revealed an abundance of new projects that Riot Game(s) has been cooking up. First, their tactical auto-battler “Teamfight Tactics” which is accessible through the League of Legends client will be coming to mobile in the near future. Teamfight Tactics isn’t the only game going mobile, however. “League of Legends: Wild Rift” is Riot’s take on a mobile version of League, it’s been built from the ground up to more effectively bring the MOBA experience to mobile devices. By all accounts, Wild Rift is an incredibly smooth experience.

Eager to justify the ‘s’ in their company name, Riot also teased new games that are in various stages of development. “Legends of Runterra” is Riot’s take on a competitive card game, deck-building and creative combos are an integral part of the gameplay. This is also interest-

ing as it’s the first time Riot has stepped into direct competition with Blizzard of their own accord, Blizzard currently dominates the competitive card-game scene with their game Hearthstone and Legends of Runterra threatens to upset that balance. What’s especially telling of Riot’s intentions is the promotional deals for the game which they entered into with various popular Hearthstone streamers such as Kripparian and DisguisedToast. Creating a direct competitor to a game and then employing that game’s most popular influencers to promote it is the game development equivalent of throwing down the gauntlet.

Riot wasn’t finished entering Blizzard’s territory, yet. Riot describes “Project A” (working title) as a “stylish, competitive, character-based shooter”. Sound familiar? Project A seems to be in the same vein as Blizzard’s “Overwatch” but with a less quirky vibe. Unlike Legends of Runterra, Project A is only in its early stages of development so’ll have to wait and see if Riot’s shooter can compete with Blizzard’s cash cow.

Throughout the course of the live stream, Riot also teased other projects which they didn’t go into detail about. These include a 2D

Editor: Jack coleman fighting game featuring League of Legends characters, a top-down adventure game which seemed to feature the League of Legends character Blitzcrank (people have called it “Diablo-esque”, another step into Blizzard’s ball park) and “League of Legends: Esports Manager”, Riot’s take on a sports simulator in the League of Legends esports scene. On top of these exciting projects, Riot also released a Netflix documentary called “League of Legends: Origins” which details the rise in popularity of the game and are working on a fully animated show set in the League of Legends universe called “Arcane”.

With Riot teasing these exciting new games and Blizzard embroiled in controversy, many believed that Riot had finally toppled the older company off the podium. Blizzard needed to respond quickly to keep up and the perfect opportunity presented itself on the weekend of November 1st when the annual company convention Blizzcon would be taking place. At the event, company president J. Allen Brack addressed the Blitzchung situation and ad-

mitted that Blizzard had mishandled the situation. However, he didn’t reverse the ban and didn’t really say anything meaningful to fix the problem. Clearly, Blizzard wasn’t going to budge on the Hong Kong protests so they had to capture the minds and hearts of their community the old-fashioned way, through video games.

To kick things off, Blizzard fell back on their bread-and-butter, a new “World of Warcraft” expansion. As the cinematic for the new “Shadowlands” expansion played, long-time players of World of Warcraft were energised once more. Though it’s a cynical view of humanity, new content goes a long way to mute protest and Blizzard were fortunate that they had enough content developed to announce Shadowlands on the heels of the Blitzchung controversy. Hearthstone is also getting updated, it’s new expansion “Descent of Dragons” seeks to freshen the game’s meta and keep players coming back (and Blizzard will be hoping it keeps them away from Legends of Runterra).

In a strange move, Blizzard an-

nounced “Overwatch 2” with a flashy cinematic trailer featuring many of the universe’s characters. With a young and successful esports scene and a respectable player base, it’s a questionable move to upset this balance by announcing a sequel. Overwatch 2 will have crossplay with Overwatch and cosmetic items earned in Overwatch will carry over to its sequel. This means that people who buy Overwatch 2 are essentially just getting a campaign mode to play. This could have easily been introduced to the original game via a paid expansion or through a similar mechanism. At the moment, Overwatch 2 feels like a forced cash grab but as development continues the game may prove more robust than it currently appears.

The biggest announcement coming from Blizzcon was “Diablo IV”. Blizzard’s iconic adventure RPG is getting another instalment and fans of the series are certainly excited. Blizzard has promised a non-linear campaign which will feature five powerful classes the player can play as. With updates and sequels to many of its

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most popular series, Blizzard has sent the message that they won’t lie down as Riot Games seeks to dominate the market. The company is over double the age of Riot and has navigated controversial waters before, signs seem to suggest that Blizzard will be able to overcome this blip in their history and will remain a major force in the gaming industry in the future.

Riot and Blizzard both experience major controversy this year, and their communities have not forgotten. Both companies were up until recently beloved in the minds of their fans but their missteps have evaporated much of that goodwill. However, it seems now that both Blizzard and Riot are doing their best to win back the minds and hearts of their players with new and exciting projects. In the process, they are also battling for supremacy over one another and the online gaming scene in general. Only time will tell how these projects will fare, and which one of Blizzard and Riot will reign supreme at the end of the day.

Fashion

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Hair and Beauty Trends Courtesy of A/W Couture 2019 Writes Katie Burke, Fashion Editor

As opposed to ready-to-wear shows, Haute Couture is all about exaggeration and opulence. You want a dress solely comprising of a giant bow? You’ll probably find one at these shows. However, these shows are also a great place to find hair and beauty trends that differ slightly from the more ready-to-wear looks.

Below are some of the top looks from the couture shows and some advice on how you can adapt them for more day-to-day looks.

All That Glitters Glitter is always a must in the months running up to the Christmas season and Valentino’s show was serving some serious inspiration for this look. With makeup for the show done under the watchful eye of beauty icon Pat McGrath, glitter eyebrows were the common trend. Given that Valentino’s collection was full of rainbow colours and wide silhouettes, one might think that adding glitter to the overall look might be too much. But, this haute couture after all and there really isn’t a thing as ‘too much’.

With lightened brows, glitter was added directly under the hair on the brow bone that followed the

shape of the model’s bone structure. The skin and lips were left neutral for the most part, adding to the drama of the eye look. Now, lightened brows and large swipes of glitter might be a bit much for some on a random night out in Cork so here’s how to add glitter to your makeup without terrifying yourself. Break out your festival glitter and place it on your eyelids above your eyeshadow for some extra sparkle but stretch it up above the crease of your eye closer to the brow bone. How far up you go depends on your eye shape and personal preference. Let your glitter shine for all to see nearer the brow and you’ll be setting trends at all the Christmas parties.

Punk Power Heavy eye makeup was seen at numerous shows such as Viktor and Rolf, Dundas, and Jean Paul Gaultier. The Dundas collection had a distinctly gothic feel to it, given the darkened surroundings of the catwalk, and the shadowy hues of the clothes’ colour palettes. With its sheer polka dots, dark florals, puffy sleeves, fishnet tights and messy up-dos, there was an air of distinctly cool party girls to the show. The beauty looks

perfectly complimented this, with its messy, heavy eyeshadow in hues of copper and black. For Viktor and Rolf, makeup artist Peter Phillips painted each models’ face with spider web-like liner on top of silver and gold backgrounds. Jean Paul Gaultier was slightly less messy than the other shows as some models’ eyes were painted by Erin Foster with perfectly shaped chrome eyeshadow, which was shaped with the help of tape. In varying shades, this heavy sparkling look lends itself perfectly to the darker winter months. To make this trend more wearable, you can subtly add some black glitter to your eyeshadow without going for a look solely comprised of heavy black glitter. Like the Viktor and Rolf look, you can add heavier liquid liner to your eye makeup or emulate the Dundas makeup by going for a messy smoky eye for the ultimate cool party girl aura.

You Glow, Hun Surprisingly, given the heavier makeup looks of the past two trends it is somewhat surprising that healthy glowing skin was also seen on some runways. Fendi, Schiaparelli and Armani Privé all

sent models down the runway with shimmering skin. Underneath the 70s style bobs of Fendi’s models was lightly contoured skin for a delicately sculpted glow. Schiaparelli also presented models with stunning highlight and faint contour and bronzer, for a look that is perhaps more commonly associated with summer. Out of all the beauty looks at haute couture for A/W this is the one that is the most wearable for everyone.

Slick and Sleek Ponytails Like the radiant complexion look, this is an easy style to incorporate into your looks. Chanel sent models down the catwalk with sleek low ponytails with side or centre partings. Hairstylist Sam McKnight championed this minimal look at the show, giving models seriously glossy locks which were scraped back perfectly to compliment the barefaced makeup complete with heavy brows and single feline liner flicks. This trend is perfect for those long days in the library when you want your hair out of your face, when you’re in a rush for a night out or when you want to let a dramatic makeup look such as those above do the talking.

Editor: Katie Burke

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Menswear A/W Trends Writes Katie Burke, Fashion Editor

Puffer Jackets Image: Topman.

Fashion has been exploring the realms of gender in recent years with gender neutral shows increasingly becoming the norm.

With the occurrence of discussions on how any sex can hold attributes of either the male or female gender, it is hoped that fashion is becoming more of a level playing field in terms of experimentation and expression.

Because of this it seems men’s fashion shows have become more exciting as they break with the traditionally safer menswear looks to bring us new interpretations of trends. Below are some top picks from the men’s A/W shows earlier this year to give some inspiration on how to introduce these trends into your wardrobe if you’re brave enough.

Leopard Print

For the past year or so leopard print has been everywhere in womenswear looks but now it seems menswear is jumping on the bandwagon. While this print might seem terrifying, it is surprisingly versatile given its neutral colour palette and can be worked into your wardrobe as subtly as you want. Seen on multiple runways, such as Celine and Dior, this is the ultimate cool pattern given its association with the times of Rock ‘n’ Roll icons in the seventies such as The Rolling Stones and Rod Stewart. You can brave this trend with a simple pocket of leopard print on a t-shirt or brave a leopard print jumper or jacket.

Velvet Vibrance Here we have another trend that lends itself to the rock ‘n’ roll years of the 1970s. Velvet seems

Leopard Print Shirt: River Island.

to be entering the world of men’s fashion in the form of suiting, with such suits being worn recently by the likes of Harry Styles and the Jonas Brothers. Dolce and Gabbana showed velvet suits in bright jewel tones of purple and blue, but if you’re looking for more subtle inspiration than look no further than the darker tones of Ralph Lauren. While suits are our top inspiration, keep an eye out for velvet in easier to wear items such as simple jackets à la Emporio Armani.

Denim Daze Oh, how we laughed and swore we would never return to the days of double denim à la Britney and Justin, but here we are. Double denim for guys was noticeable earlier this year when a couple of male Love Island contestants

sported the look. Now, judging by the A/W runway shows, double denim is back with a bang, with a distinctively western feel (do we have Lil Nas and Old Town Road to thank for this?). Let’s face it the idea of double denim is slightly terrifying so if you’re brave enough to try it then good for you!

Puffer Paradise Puffer jackets are here to stay!

These jackets have taken over all corners of the fashion world in recent seasons and they don’t seem to be leaving any time soon. The latest A/W interpretation of this piece leans more towards a long line cut. With shows such as Rick Owens showing this look, it seems to be time to dust off your puffer jacket from last year yet again, or even invest in the new long line cut if that’s more your style.

Arts & Literature

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Musical Stations Writes Fiona Keeley, Arts & Literature Editor

A train station is not the first place you would imagine you would hear Claude Debussy’s Clair De Lune being played on a piano yet in Kent station in Cork that is exactly what can happen.

Since September 2017, public pianos have been installed in five train stations across the country.

Stations that were once a place of waiting to go from one place to another have become minute destinations in their own right, where people can interact with the arts and appreciate the talent of others. This countrywide project is credited to piano tuning and repair expert John Murphy, who envisioned opening public pianos in Irish train stations after he observed the positive impact of a similar initiative in train stations in the UK. He initiated this project in 2017, collaborating with Iarnród Éireann, to install the first piano in Pearse station. This was the beginning of the project that has since established roots in many cities across the country, spreading the knowledge of the previously unknown musical talents of many of the commuters who pass through these stations.

Kent Station is the fifth train station in the country to have a piano installed, after Pearse, Heuston, Connolly and Plunkett train stations. It was installed on 29th March 2019 to mark World Piano Day, the eighty-eighth day on the calendar year to signify the eighty-eight keys on a piano.

The piano is tuned by John Murphy four times a year to keep the instrument in good condition.

This initiative covers not only train stations across the country but has also spread to cover other transport hubs such as Cork and Dublin airports. The increased scale of this project in a short amount of time shows the power of this musical initiative and how the public are willing to show their support for it.

This project involves not only artist visionaries such as John Murphy but also local artists from across the country who decorate these pianos with their own artistry. In Kent train station, artist Gary Reddin was asked to design the piano. Within this design he emulated what someone might hear in Cork as they walk around

the city. The piano’s inscription, ‘Come ‘ere to me Boy’ gives visitors to the city a taste of what they might hear as they walk down St. Patrick’s Street or through any of the local shops. Gary Reddin commented to BreakingNews. ie “Eventually I came to the notion that the piano is sitting in a train station and the idea of it calling out to somebody, but in a Cork accent. So it says ‘Come ‘ere to me boy’ as though the piano is actually calling you over.” in March when the piano was installed. Visitors to the train station are encouraged to play the piano when they pass through the station as they wait for a train to their destination. University Express talked to a staff member at Kent station about the impact this initiative has had within the train station, “it is a great bit of entertainment for the passengers [in the station]” and as I wait for my train I am encouraged by how many people I see going to sit down at the piano and play a tune.

As an onlooker for most of the time, I am amazed about how this public piano has reinvigorated

a sense of life into Kent station and created a warm atmosphere of welcome inside the building.

Even on cold November days, it doesn’t feel as chilly if you can listen to the sound of someone playing their choice of music. I have heard everything from Beethoven’s 9th Symphony to Chopsticks to Bohemian Rhapsody during my travels through Ireland’s train stations and the one message that I have taken away with me is the affirmation that this project is there for the entire public to take part in. Be it as an onlooker or a pianist, you are adding something to the overall experience for everyone involved in that moment.

Thanks to this project’s conceptualisation it has reinvented our experience in a train station from one of waiting and looking fretfully at a watch to an experience of culture and entertainment. It has allowed the public to bring their own musical talents to the very fringes of the arrival’s halls in transport hubs, so commuters can be immersed in culture from the moment they arrive and leave the station.

Editor: Fiona Keeley

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Theo Dorgan – Poets of Cork Writes Fiona Keeley, Arts & Literature Editor

In my second article featuring poets of Cork, I am looking at the life and career of Theo Dorgan and what he has contributed to Irish literature in his career so far. Theo Dorgan was born in Cork in 1953 and since then has spanned a successful career taking on the roles of a poet, novelist, documentary screenwriter, prose writer, editor, translator and broadcaster.

He attended North Monastery School in Cork where he was taught in Irish and left the school with an understanding of the language. He also socialised with poet contemporaries such as Gerry Murphy while in his secondary school years. He then went on to take his place at UCC as an English and Philosophy BA student.

This was a time of a shift in culture in UCC and under the supervision of John Montague and surrounded by other poetic contemporaries who were determined to see literature succeed, Dorgan began to write and publish poetry as an undergraduate student. After succeeding in his undergraduate degree Theo Dorgan went on to study an English MA at UCC and taught within the university after completing his masters.

Dorgan’s history with UCC is remembered through his teachings and his connection with the city is remembered in his managing of the literature programme of the Triskel Arts Centre while working at UCC from 1977 – 1979. Dorgan took a notable role in the film industry in 1986 when he became co-director of the Cork Film Festival alongside Mick Hannigan who was co-director at the Triskel Arts Centre that year. Together they transformed the festival and used the opportunity to exhibit short and independent films in big venues such as Cork Opera House. While fulfilling the roles of co-directors, Dorgan and Hannigan made use of this opportunity to make Cork a more welcome place for short film premieres and an attractive venue for filmmakers. These initiatives have helped transform Cork Film Fes-

tival into the event that it is today.

At this stage in Theo Dorgan’s career he had reached into multiple forms of communication

through literature and in 1989 he was appointed as the Director of Poetry Ireland. In 19901991 Theo Dorgan took on the

post of assistant director on a film entitled Pages for the Great Book of Ireland. Commissioned

by Gandon Productions for RTÉ, this film explored the makings

of the Great Book of Ireland.

During Dorgan’s tenure as director he published his first poetry

collection, The Ordinary House of Love, in 1991. His second and third collections, Rosa Mundi and Sappho’s Daughter followed in quick succession in 1995 and 1998, respectively. Theo Dorgan also worked with RTÉ in the 1990’s and 2000’s, editing and presenting shows on RTÉ Radio 1 such as Irish Poetry Since Kavanagh in 1995 and Imprint, a programme about books that was broadcast on RTÉ television from 1999-2000. Imprint, which was produced by Loopline Film, had the tagline ‘Navigating the World of Books’. Theo Dorgan hosted the show and interviewed a rotating number of people who reviewed books that they had read.

In a comment given to the Sunday Independent in 1999 about Imprint from an unnamed source “The poet Theo Dorgan is an ideal interviewer pursuing his subjects like a curious otter, probing when necessary, then withdrawing allowing them to talk.” This comment gives you a sense of what kind of interviewer Dorgan was during his time on Imprint.

Theo Dorgan was appointed to the Aosdána in 1999, an organisation of Irish-based artists founded in 1981 by the late Taoiseach Charles Haughey. The Aosdána aims to honour Irish artists whose work has contributed to the arts in Ireland and encourage them to devote all their energies to their art.

Theo Dorgan also spent five years on the Arts Council 2003-2008, which is an agency that partners with artists, art organisations and public policy makers from across the country to develop a central place for the arts within Irish society. In more recent years, Theo Dorgan has been honoured with the O’Shaughnessy Prize for Irish Poetry in 2010 and the Irish Times Poetry Now Prize in 2015. He has published eight collections of poetry, some in collaboration with his contemporaries. His most recent poetry collection, Orpheus was published in 2018 by Dedalus Press.

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Sports

Issue 5 | Tuesday 12th Nov 2019 | University Express

Interview: Michael Conlan- From Belfast to MSG Writes Jack Maguire, Sports Editor

From the streets of Belfast, emerged one of the greatest boxing talents this country has ever seen. Having progressed through the amateur ranks at home and abroad, and having encountered many challenges and setbacks, Michael Conlan rose above and made his name in the professional ranks. Recently the University Express spoke to Michael about his younger days, his amateur career and his road to success in the professional game.

Michael was born on 19th of November 1991.

It didn’t take Michael long to find his real talent when he joined Clonard Amateur Boxing Club.

“I was 7 years of age. My older brothers were getting into trouble, so they were made go to the gym and learn to defend themselves and I followed along” When admiring figures like Morales who was World Champion in four different weight divisions, Barrera who held multiple World Championships in three different divisions and Pacquiao,

the only eight-division World Champion in history, it was clear that Conlan had big ambitions.

“In boxing, Erik Morales, Marco Antonio Barrera and Manny Pacquiao.

Outside of boxing, Henrik Larsson”.

Larsson being one of Celtic’s most prolific goal scorer, netting 242 goals in 313 games, who also put Rangers hope of 10 league titles in a row to bed.

To make it to the top takes serious commitment. We spoke about Michael’s rigorous training programme and his beginning in the sport. How often did you train?

“Every night, my Father was the coach so I had no excuse for missing training. Even though I was getting into mischief, messing around, doing things I shouldn’t have, boxing taught me lots like respecting your elders”.

At what age did you know that professional boxing was the route you were going to take?

“I played lots of sports. At the age of 14 I knew I was good. My coach, Seán McCaffrey told me,

you have to choose either boxing or the other sports. I liked to hit people so I knew from a young age. My father said, what have you done you idiot, you’ll never get a job, but he knew”.

In 2015, Conlan made history in Doha. He became Bantamweight World Champion with a 3:0 victory over Uzbekistan fighter Murodjon Akhmadaliev.

He agrees that this was the highlight of his amateur career; “Maybe the World Title, the best in the world. I became the first Irish Male World Champion. That was special because I made history.

I became a celebrity overnight, I got real recognition and I became sports person of the year”.

Amongst being crowned World Champion in 2015, Conlan has a European Gold and Silver medal, an Olympic bronze medal from 2012 and a Commonwealth Games Gold medal to his name.

Everybody remembers the controversy surrounding Michael’s exit from the Rio 2016 Olympic Games, which was widely reported afterwards to have been fixed. This fight marked

the end of his amateur career.

“I was always going to go professional and what better way to sign off than telling them go f*** themselves. It was televised worldwide, my dream of being Olympic Champion was ruined. [The transition to professional boxing] wasn’t hard, it was quite easy actually, being the guy who got screwed over”.

Although Michael’s dream was wrongly stolen from him, bigger things lay ahead for the Irishman.

After the fight with Nikitin, Conlan was disgusted, he could not enjoy his usual post-match meals with his family which put a dampener on the experience.

“Usually after fights I pig out and be happy. After Rio, I didn’t put on much weight, I didn’t feel I earned it, I didn’t complete my task. In Rio before we came home, family and friends were eating out, I had that sickening feeling, I didn’t want to pig out”.

After the injustice at the Olympics, it was only a matter of time before the two would meet again to settle the score. The rematch

Issue 5 | Tuesday 12th Nov 2019 | University Express between Conlan and Nikitin is scheduled for the 14th December in Madison Square Garden. Michael is really looking forward to the fight and he is leaving nothing to chance as regards preparation.

“I’m really really excited. It’s a special fight, with extra fuel in the tank. When he pulled out [of the original professional fight], I didn’t think it would happen and it wasn’t bothering me. I must go in and do my thing”.

It is a testament to Michaels professionalism taking nothing for granted. Nikitin is undefeated in his 3 professional fights to date and will not be a walkover. Despite the incident at the Olympics, Conlan holds no grudge against the Russian.

“For me, there’s no personal ill feeling towards him. I must go in prepared, people think it’s a foregone conclusion. He has beaten me twice on paper, in 2013 and 2016.

In 2013, it was close, thought I necked it, couldn’t complain about it. I don’t even need to explain 2016. I’m the underdog, I’ve something to prove.

He’s no slouch, he’s not Champion of Russia for being crap, I must put in all the rounds” Its many young people’s dream to make it as a professional boxer, and the fame and fortune surrounding it. I asked Michael about his experiences at the top.

“I love it, I’ve had fun, I’ve enjoyed it and it has been good to me, it hasn’t been a struggle”.

He was not fazed by the big opponents or big crowds and arenas when making the step up. He took all that the professional game has thrown at him so far in his stride.

Anyone who witnessed Michaels electric walk on at his professional debut in New York would have

Sports Event. Boxing 6 rounds worked very well, everybody loved it and we had a party in New York. [In Madison Square Garden] it’s a short walk out, but I wanted a big long entrance. I was the first man to demand the long walk on. Having McGregor brought an extra buzz too”.

Michael has varied his walk on music for his fights so far, but

“I was always going to go professional and what better way to sign off than telling them go f*** themselves.” to have been taken aback. For an Irish man to go to America and receive such an incredible reception and support was fantastic.

The fight being held on St. Patricks Day only added to the festivities and excitement that surrounded the spectacle. Michael was paraded to the ring to the sound of bagpipes and thousands of fans singing along, with Conor McGregor carrying the tricolour.

“Unbelievable, I kind of knew how it was going to go. I tried to rush the job, there was a lot of expectation on me. For an undercard pro debut, there’s not much buzz around, but I knew it was going to be like that, Main

‘Grace’ is an ever-present song.

The love song about Grace Gifford and Joseph Mary Plunkett, who was executed in the aftermath of the Easter Rising 1916. The music is a vital element of the entrance and it has importance to Michael.

“You need it to get you going.

That’s what I was about, big entrances. [Grace] is a special song for me. I love how people know it and sing out, it gives you the feeling of being supported”.

No matter what sport you play, there is nothing more special than competing in front of your home crowd. Michael was lucky enough to fight in the Falls Park in August

37

of this year. He came through the encounter with a ninth round TKO victory over Diego Alberto Ruiz despite picking up an injury to his hand during the fight. Conlan is looking forward to returning to the Falls Park next year.

“It’s a special place for me to box. It was a fantastic night.

100% The Falls Park again, next year it will happen”.

We discussed what the future holds for Michael, and what his intentions are for the future.

“My goal is to be Irelands greatest ever sportsperson.

It’s something I believe I can achieve. I’m on my way but there’s still a long way to go”.

One of Ireland’s most successful boxers and naturally gifted fighters extended his undefeated professional record to 12-0 with the victory over Ruiz in Belfast.

In an era where Ireland has produced many sporting heroes in boxing, soccer and athletics to name but a few, to hear Michael’s enthusiasm to become the best is brilliant to see. He shows the belief and courage it takes to make it to the pinnacle of competitive sport. When Conlan returns to the ring in December, there is no doubt that the fans will descend on Manhattan in their thousands to support the fan favourite where hopefully he will avenge injustices past, and further pave the way to being the greatest.

Sports

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Issue 5 | Tuesday 12th Nov 2019 | University Express

Rugby World Cup Review: South Africa Crowned Victorious Writes Sam Curtin, Deputy Sports Editor

You may recall the article I wrote previewing the competition in the first edition of the year where I compared the World Cup to a Shakespearean drama. It certainly did not disappoint in being dramatic nor in terms of quality.

There is nowhere else to start but with an honourable mention to the hosts Japan. The brave blossoms not only lived up to their nickname but were one of the highlights of the tournament playing an attractive, offloading brand of rugby which saw them top Pool A and reach their first ever quarter final beating Ireland and Scotland along the way. They eventually lost to overall winners South Africa 26-3. Overall, they were excellent hosts, earning plaudits for their friendly and welcoming nature in helping out visiting rugby fans from around the world. The Japanese authorities must also be applauded for somehow being able to get Yokohama Stadium in perfect condition a day after Typhoon Hagibis, Japan’s worst storm since 1958.

It is all the more remarkable considering three games including New Zealand and Italy had to be cancelled due to the typhoon.

Speaking of storms and natural disasters, Ireland’s World Cup was one of seismic proportion:

an emphatic defeat in the quarter finals. It’s the hope that kills you as they say, but in this instance, one feels that Joe Schmidt didn’t help his team’s chances by being overly loyal to players who were underperforming such as Rob Kearney and Rob Henshaw. Players such as Jordan Larmour, Chris Farrell and Andrew Conway had excellent tournaments yet could not get a look in against the All Blacks. From the heights of 2018, Ireland became more conservative, narrower in attack and did not seem to have any plan B or X factor which could turn a game on its head. The writing was on the wall after the Japan defeat. Regardless of six-day turnarounds and holding things back, Ireland were out fought and outclassed by a superior team on the night and in the tournament. Many of the players have played their last World Cup and possibly their final International match for Ireland.

Its a great pity that Rory Best and Joe Schmidt’s Irish careers had to end on such a sour note but as we know only too well, sport is cruel.

Shock defeats and emphatic results were not kept to just Pool A alone. Uruguay picked up their first ever World Cup victory by defeating Fiji 30-27 in one of the biggest shocks in the history

of the tournament. We have already mentioned the giant killers Japan, turning over Ireland and also Scotland in one of the best matches of the tournament 2922. England also produced one of the great world cup performances by preventing New Zealand from making it 3 titles in a row when they were stopped 19-7 in the semi finals. In that game, we also witnessed one of the great haka responses when the English team led with the smirk of Owen Farrell set up in a v formation.

Interestingly enough they were fined by World Rugby for this as it apparently broke their rules in relation to stepping over the halfway line while the haka was performed. The intensity and skill level displayed by the English was a sight to behold and they will have regrets for years to come that they could not finish the job against South Africa in the final.

On that note, it was of course South Africa who claimed their third Webb Ellis Cup since 1995 when they outmuscled England 32-12 in the final. Munster supporters could potentially lay claim to some of the success with the Springboks’ management including former Munster coaches Felix Jones, Aled Waters, Jaque Nienaber and of course Head Coach Rassie Erasmus. For a

team revered for their attritional style of play, it was their two smallest players who gained most of the plaudits. Scrum half Faf De Kierk and winger Cheslin Kolbe were two of the players of the tournament and are both under 5 ‘10” . Without them, it is arguable that they may not have reached the summit and they are both players who are on their way to becoming global superstars. Last but certainly not least, we witnessed one of the great post final speeches. Springbok captain Siya Kolisi, who grew up in severe poverty and endured tragedy when his mother died when he was 15.

Since 2014, he has adopted his half siblings who were left with nowhere to go when their mother died. In his speech Kolisi said that “We appreciate all the support - people in the taverns, in the shebeens, farms, homeless people and people in the rural areas.”

A class act from a class player.

This World Cup although unique, retained many of its usual features, a southern hemisphere victor, new superstars, an Ireland quarter final exit but most importantly of all, some breathtaking rugby which displays how far the game has developed since the last World Cup in 2015. A new era begins for rugby and it can’t come soon enough.

Sports

Issue 5 | Tuesday 12th Nov 2019 | University Express

Irish Hockey Qualify For Tokyo!

Writes Sam Curtin, Deputy Sports Editor

39

A week in review: UCC sports round- up Writes Sam Curtin, Deputy Sports Editor Rugby The UCC men’s U20 side beat Young Munster 24-15 at St Mary’s RFC in the second Donal Walsh game of the season.

The UCC Bulldogs drew away to Mallow 22-22 in the J2 league on Friday.

The Irish women’s hockey team continue to ride on a crest of a wave which began in 2018 after securing the passage to their first ever Olympic Games in Tokyo next year. Of course, anyone who has followed the sport on this island for the past year will know that it wasn’t without drama.

Canada were the opponents for the ‘green machine’ at a converted rugby pitch at Energia Park in Donnybrook on the 2nd and 3rd of November. The Canadians ranked 15th in the world (compared to Ireland’s 10th) were seen as the toughest draw Ireland could have gotten and so it proved. Over the two legs there wasn’t a single goal in normal time and as a result it went to penalty shuttles. This is essentially a shootout where the player has 8 seconds to run from the halfway line and score past the goalkeeper. The sport which can cause confusion amongst many at times, certainly knows how to put on a dramatic show. The TMO was used endlessly throughout the two legs, none more so than in the shootout when Ireland’s place at Tokyo next year was confirmed after Roisín Upton scored the winning penalty despite having a broken wrist.

The question that must be raised however is, just how good is this Irish team? This may seem idiotic considering they reached the final of last years World Cup and are on their way to the Olympics.

The statistics make for interesting reading however. On their way to the final last year, Ireland avoided having to beat any of the games superpowers and lost to

the two top ranked teams in England (1-0 in group stage) and the Netherlands (6-0 in the final). To reach the final Ireland beat both India and Spain ranked 10th and 11th respectively on penalties to advance. One could argue that this was quite a favourable draw and the side were outclassed by a far superior Dutch side in the final. Ireland also created very little against Canada especially in the 2nd leg with no clear-cut chances evident. Having said this, the character shown in the last year especially against the Canadians was incredible where they were 3-1 down on penalties and seemingly destined to fail once more.

The way in which they hung in to the very end despite not playing well displays true quality which has not been seen in an Irish hockey team before. The Irish goalkeeper Ayiesha McFerran is arguably the number one goalkeeper in the world who came up with three stellar saves when the team needed her the most.

Roisín Upton scored the winning penalty with a broken wrist of all things! That more than anything shows a unique grit and determination amongst an amateur team with an extraordinary drive to succeed. That is something to be very proud of.

It also important to note that this Irish women’s hockey team are probably the only Irish female team to have a larger profile than their male counterparts which is saying something considering women’s sport in Ireland is still in its development stage.

On that note, spare a thought for the men’s team who had just a dramatic playoff against the same opposition but unlike their female counterparts, ended in the cruellest of fashion. 5-3 up from the first leg and 1-0 up in the second after the first quarter, Ireland seemed to be cruising but the Canadians enjoyed more of the possession in the second match and found themselves 2-1 up heading into the final quarter. Even at this point Ireland seemed to be relatively comfortable until disaster struck in the dying seconds of the game when a controversial penalty corner was awarded in what looked like minimum contact from Irish player Lee Cole on the opposing attacker. Canada scored to send the game to a penalty shootout which the Canadians prevailed 5-4 despite Ireland being 3-1 up.

A heartbreaking way to end a heartbreaking tie for Ireland who will no doubt be having sleepless nights over what happened.

Overall, it’s fair to say that it was quite an eventful week for Irish hockey. Not for the first time, the ‘Green Machine’ looked dead and buried but came out alive more than ever. The men will have to wait four more years for a shot at redemption. To finish on a high however, Sunday the 3rd of November will be remembered as another famous night for Irish hockey.

Hopefully there is more to come.

One Irish team may have already been banished in Japan but one would be a fool to think that this group of role models will be joining them.

GAA The Fresher B hurlers recorded an emphatic win over LIT in the Quarter finals on a score line of 5-19 to 2-06.

There were also wins for the seniors and intermediates over CIT in the league.

The intermediate camogie team were edged out by a point by UL 0-11 to 1-07.

In Gaelic Football, the Fresher A’s were victorious over DCU 2-14 to 1-09 in their league Quarter Final.

The senior ladies football side won 4-12 to 5-02 against NUIG. The intermediate side also recorded an impressive victory over the Garda College 6-09 to 3-13.

Hockey The UCC ladie’s hockey team reached the final of the Chilean Cup. They were narrowly defeated by UCD 1-0. Well done to all involved in the tournament.

Tennis A large squad travelled to Rathgar in Dublin to the National College Championships over the Bank Holiday weekend in October. Sean O’ Callaghan reached the final of the Men’s singles and was victorious with Daniel Maloney in the men’s doubles.

Fiona O’Callaghan won the ladies singles with Eimear O’Neil finishing as runner up. The pair then doubled up to win the doubles event.

University

Volume 24 | Issue 5 | Tuesday 12th November 2019

Sports

UCCExpress.ie

Taylor Cements Historic Legacy

Writes Ciaran Dineen, Editor-in-Chief For some years now, a softly spoken woman from Bray with an infectious smile and personality to match has carried the hopes of a nation on her broad shoulders. With emotional highs and some extremely difficult lows along the way, Ireland’s Katie Taylor has cemented herself as one of the greatest athletes to emerge from this small island.

On November 2nd at 9PM in the Manchester Arena, Katie stepped out in front of 20,000 spectators to face Greece’s Christina Linardatou, as the co-main event to Anthony Crolla’s final fair well fight. After putting on yet another masterful display of boxing, she was crowned the victor and became just the third fighter in Irish history to become a twoweight world boxing champion.

The capture of the WBO junior welterweight belt (140 lbs) now sees her placed alongside national boxing greats, Steve Collins and Carl Frampton. All in a day’s work for arguably this country’s greatest ever sporting product.

From 2005 until her amateur box-

ing retirement in 2016, Taylor established herself as the most illustrious female boxer to lace a pair of gloves and such was her impact that she is hugely credited with the introduction of women’s boxing in the Olympics for the first time at London 2012. The Irish people had fallen in love with the Bray native long before the West-End games, but from that moment on she became a national icon and role model for all young women across the country and even the globe. On the incredible day when she won a gold medal, Katie entered the arena that resembled a colosseum, with Rihanna’s ‘Only Girl’ playing in the background.

The typically booming boxing voice from commentator Ronald McIntosh was drowned out completely by a nation totally fixated.

Fast-forward a little over seven years and the now 33 year-old finds herself on a similar high, having overcome the powerful Linardatou in a 10x2 minute round contest in Manchester.

Since turning pro, shortly after her extremely disappointing and highly controversial exit from the Rio 2016 Olympics, Taylor, under the guidance of Eddie Hearn of Matchroom Boxing, has broken

barriers in the female pro-fight game and created an incredible legacy for others to now follow.

With no headguards and smaller gloves, Katie puts her body and life on the line every time she now steps in the ring and in doing so she has changed the mindsets of many in the sport who had previously felt boxing was not a sport for women.

Defeating these stereotypes is nearly as remarkable as Katie’s conquering of opponents, and in Manchester just a couple of weeks’ ago many young girls were pictured with Ireland flags and cardboard messages of support for this sporting hero. What is perhaps Taylor’s greatest achievement is that boxing experts and promoters like Eddie Hearn are now no longer differentiating between boxing and female boxing.

Katie has put so much credit into the bank that gender is no longer becoming a descriptive element of the sport, which since its foundation thousands of years ago, has always been male-dominated.

Coming into her latest bout, the Connecticut-based Taylor looked to prove a point as many believed that she had lost her previous

fight, which saw her contentiously crowned the undisputed lightweight champion of the world in a very close contest. That saw her join a star-studded list of just 6 other boxers in history to have held all belts in any weight division simultaneously. Taylor, never fully satisfied, decided to move up a weight class to 140 pounds to challenge the Greek WBO champion, Linardatou. The Mediterranean fighter was visibly much heavier and stronger than Katie, who was on the back foot for the whole of the fight as her opponent looked to chase her down.

However, such is the skill of the Bray woman, she managed to box beautifully off the back-foot, making the champion look clumsy and off-balance at times. Although she received a lovely ‘shiner’ for her troubles, Katie saw her hand raised after the final bell in a unanimous decision, with judges scoring the bout 97-93 (x2) and 96-94. While Linardatou was upset with the decision, she had little to complain about after she was ultimately given a boxing lesson.

Taylor was overcome with joy and the normally stoic fighter was very emotional in her post-fight interview. Three years previously Katie had cried tears of pain on RTÉ television after being knocked out of the Olympics but thankfully on this historic occasion she was shedding tears of happiness.

The 33 year-old now has many options on the table. She openly advocates for a rematch with her previous opponent Persoon to banish any doubts from their previous fight, while she also wants to clear out the rest of the junior Welterweight division. What is certainly on Katie’s and many Irish peoples’ bucket-list is a bout here in Ireland in a sold out arena. Maybe after that this breaker of barriers and once in a lifetime champion will hang up her gloves.