The University Express - Vol.23, Issue 6

University

Express

Volume 24 | Issue 6 | Tuesday 26th November 2019

UCCExpress.ie

UCCSU Claim Huge Victory As Capitation Increase Reversed

the University decided to review was found that the majority of the and ultimately revoke the decision. money was to be dedicated to the UCC Sports Strategy, centering The capitation fee was increased on building a new facility. Referfor all new students in 2019/20, endums to increase the capitation UCC’s Students’ Union (UCCSU) with further increases planned fee for this reason have been carhave successfully reversed a €200 for the coming years. As the SUSI ried out twice, once in 2009 and increase in the student capitation grant and tuition fee grant do not again in 2017, and were rejected fee, reducing the cost to €170 for all cover capitation fees or levies, by the student body both times. incoming students. The increase all students would be required to was announced in June 2019, in- pay the extra money, and would Sources close to the SU inciting protest from the Students’ not be permitted to use facilities formed the Express of the uniUnion, who staged a sit-in protest or sit exams if they could not. versity’s plans, which the UCCSU in the following days; following First-year students of 2019/20 confirmed when approached. the increase being implemented, will have the fee increase reimthe UCCSU began negotiations bursed to them in the form of “At its core, this fee represented with the university in an attempt credit on next year’s capitation fee. a blatant attempt by UCC to force undergraduate students to fund to reverse the decision, eventually While UCC defended the increase a capital development project,” threatening legal action. In Octoas being for student services, it commented Welfare Officer Naober, after 4 months of negotiation,

Writes Samantha Calthrop, News Editor

UCC Students’ Union 2019/20

Page 3 News

Addiction and Our Pain,

Page 6 Features

Hub Tour

Page 18 Byline

ise Crowley, “UCC referred to the benefits this fee would have for ‘counselling and support, student health services and sports and recreational facilities’, implying an equal balancing of their priorities.

“Student services are certainly under-funded, however, by not simply opting to run a referendum for a €10 increase to the Student Capitation Fee for counselling services (a referendum likely to pass based on recent trends ) it would appear to me that the University have effectively attempted to use the services as an excuse to get a capital development project across the line.”

Story Continued on Page 4

Soccer Injustices

Page 38 Sport

Editorial

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Issue 6 | Tuesday 26th November 2019 | University Express Seasons Greeting 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)

I’m sure many of you, especially our newest first years, are probably scratching your head wondering how this first semester has come and gone so quickly. Like you, I too am wiping my eyes in disbelief that this is the final week of the year, despite the fact that this happens to me twice every 12 months! It’s amazing how time just passes you by, but I’m hoping that at least one person has followed any previous advice that I have offered as a guide to preparing for the next couple of weeks ahead.

It’s so important to finish your year off on a high. This may not be purely down to academic performance but something else in your life that has been that monkey on your back that you haven’t yet addressed seriously or attempted to shake off. Making little adjustments here and there during this time can have a big positive impact to the end of your year and then you can reward yourself by enjoying Christmas, knowing that you’re in a good place to start 2020 on the right foot.

This can be a very difficult and stressful period for many people in the lead up to exams. On top of that you may work part-time, have other commitments and know that you still need to do all of your Christmas present shopping. The one consolation if this sounds familiar, is that you certainly aren’t alone. It’s crucial that you try and help yourself and those around you who are struggling to cope too. Getting out and enjoying some fresh cold air or meeting a friend for a quick coffee are nice ways to take short moments of respite. Making sure that you are fuelling your body and mind with good food and exercise are also important ingredients for success, and there is nothing stopping you from trying to get friends and family involved in that process too. The key principal is that you look after yourself and realise that in no time at all you’ll be tucking into your festive dinner!

As we finish off our editions for the semester, I hope that they’ve catered for you in some way or another. We have had some excellent work from all of our outstanding editors so far this year, while we’ve also been delighted to work with staff writers and of course, you, our student contributors, who have been great to engage with this term. Hopefully more of you will find a creative urge next year and send an email my way.

This week we lead with the big story of the semester and probably the year as the SU announced the reversal of the capitation increase. We have a great interview with Dr Amanullah de Sondy in the latest of our lecturer profiles, while we offer more advice on study preparation before exams.

As always happy reading and I wish you all a great Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Take Care, Ciaran.

editor@uccexpress.ie

The small world of UCC Writes Samantha Calthrop, News Editor This week, UCC’s student union secured a €200 fee reduction for future students.

In the same week, they scrambled to cancel a controversial giveaway to some notoriously contentious musicians. The USI launched a mental health hotline and campaigned over at Sligo IT, the minutes for the first student council were sent out, and countless other things happened in the work of student politics.

How much of it did you notice?

We pay our SU execs a full time wage, after which the majority of us completely ignore them and their activities. Election time is the only time most think about student politics, and even then, not many put the effort into studying their candidates— or they’re just trying to avoid harassment while walking across campus. Yet the USI and SU tick away, making slow, large and tangible changes to our student lives. True, every year the president-elect promises an ‘accessible SU’ and every year the SU’s activities are lost in a haze of locked Google drives and overdue emails, but still; are you aware of how these people affect you?

Even I, as a student media professional, can easily lose track of the SU if I don’t stay on the ball. I try to keep up, because the vast majority of people who are well-informed about the SU are on it. If we don’t hold them accountable, who will?

Try to keep an eye on the SU. Make notes of what you like and what you don’t like. Remember, your vote is a powerful thing. You should be careful it’s going in the right direction.

Samantha

news@uccexpress.ie #uccexpress

News

Issue 6 | Tuesday 26th November 2019 | University Express

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UCC Students’ Union 2019/20: First Semester in Review Writes David Condon, SU Comms Officer

UCC Students’ Union 2019/20 have been in office since July 1st working on behalf of the 21,000 students they were elected to represent. As we near the end of their First Semester in office it is time to review some of their achievement and get an idea of what they have planned for next semester.

Come Dancing for the Irish Cancer Society, hosting the Science Societies in ‘Quiz Loco’ event in aid of the CUH Charity, speaking on panels around sustainable commerce , working with Surgeon Noonan on their Aula Max Kilo Sale or giving talks to Cork secondary school students about UCC, UCC Students’ Union 2019/20 have made a specific and concerted effort to better engage and promote the ‘UCC Community’.

1. Capitation Fee Reversal After several months of negotiations with the University, ultimately culminating in a threat of litigation against the University, UCC Students’ Union successfully secured the reversal of a €200 increase to the Student Capitation Fee and a reimbursement of €80 to those incoming students charged.

2. Establishment of UCC Students’ Food Bank UCC Students’ Union successfully established a Food Bank earlier this year for those students struggling through financial hardship.

Welfare Officer Naoise Crowley expressed the Union’s desire to improve student wellbeing by ensuring the basic needs of students are met, with the hope that this will have a positive knock-on effect on the mental health of students supported by this initiative.

3. A New Focus on International Students A group of students who often receive poor representation from Students’ Unions is the hundreds of international students in UCC. UCCSU 2019/20 made a conscious effort to do more for these students with several key deliveries: (i) Every International Student would, for the first time, receive a ‘Freshers Pack’ including promotional items and key information to help in their transition to Cork, (ii) An International Student Market would be organised the week prior to Freshers Week with businesses most relevant and needed by these students present e.g. Leap Card, Bank of Ireland, Three Mobile and a Sustainable Swap Shop (ran by the International Office) and (iii) The first ever International Freshers Ball would be organised specifically to cater for the social needs of these students.

4. Largest UCC Freshers Ball Every Freshers Week, UCC Students’ Union have the pleasure of organis-

ing the largest event of the week; the Freshers Ball. Entertainments Officer Sophie O’Sullivan managed to secure Havana Browns, Hidden Attic and Secret Garden as the venue for the evening and the event sold out almost instantly. Securing three nightclubs and selling out the event for this evening made Freshers Ball 2019 the largest Freshers Ball the Union has ever organised.

5. Cork City Consent Campaign Working alongside the Cork Safe City Project and the Cork Sexual Violence Centre, UCC Students’ Union were thrilled to co-launch the first ever city-wide consent campaign on the Monday of Freshers Week 2019 in the Presidents Garden. We hope to maintain and develop our relationship with the Cork Sexual Violence Centre as we enter our second semester.

6.

Election/Training of Class Representatives Education Officer Catherine Dawson, working alongside the Part-time College Representative Officers, successfully ran the elections for hundreds of Academic and Ents Class Representative across the University. Two training days were then organised for these newly elected individuals to ensure the best representation for our students possible.

7.

SHAG Week 2019/Mental Health & Well Being Week/ Disability Awareness Week The Union’s Equality Working

Group, Welfare Officer and Deputy President & Campaigns Officer have worked hard to run campaigns, information evenings and exciting events all in the hopes of raising awareness around issues that matter to our students.

8.

Sustainable Straws Following on from the Union’s Sustainable Coffee Cup Initiative last year, the Union successfully secured funding with the help of UCC Green Campus to distribute a Sustainable Silicon Straws to all incoming First Year Students in the hope of reducing the number of plastic straws used during Freshers Week and welcome our new students to an environmental friendly campus.

9.

Engaging in the UCC Community Whether it’s marching in Cork Pride, hosting/competing in UCC Strictly

10.

What’s Coming Next?

- The annual Education/Welfare campaign ‘Eat, Sleep, Study & Succeed’ Campaign will be run for Christmas and Summer Exams - At long last, Second Semester will see the grand opening of the Hub. - One of the larger events of the year, Arts Ball 2019, will be taking place in 2nd Semester.

- President Ben Dunlea endeavours to secure a Microwave for students down in Western Gateway.

- Following on from the success of Docklands 2017, Entertainments Officer Sophie O’Sullivan will endeavour to fill the desire amongst students for large scale music events.

- RAG WEEK 2019 will be upon us sooner rather than later.

- Fresh faces will jump forward to replace old and tired ones in the March Student Union Elections 2019.

- Developing the Union’s Drug Policy in light of last year’s referendum results.

- Continue to work with the University to secure Satellite Campus Common Rooms with the funding secured in last year’s referendum.

- Develop a Strategic Plan for the Union.

In This Issue....

Features Lecturer Profile: Dr Amanullah de Sondy Food & Health Don’t Ditch the Dairy Sexpress Conversations with OnlyFans Creators Gaming “Underdogs” Team Ireland & the Overwatch World Cup

Page 10 Page 20 Page 28 Page 30

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News

Cover Story Continued...

When negotiations broke down, the UCCSU sought legal advice on the matter, and found that the fee increase had grounds to be unlawful. It goes against the principles of the Irish Free Fees Initiative and the HEA’s recommendations; all introductions and increases to capitation fees and levies should be carried out with the consent of students via referendum. A statement from the UCCSU describes the attempt as worrying, and could “set a profound precedent empowering Universities across Ireland to impose charges of any amount for any capital development without any oversight or regulation.”

Prior to the fee increase being reversed, the UCCSU planned to organise a High Court judicial review on the university’s decision.

Summing up the Union’s legal position, Communications Officer David Condon said, “Our legal question was always a simple one; what legal ability does a University have to unilaterally introduce, without any external Government oversight, a €200 fee that is not covered by the Irish Exchequer, SUSI Grants and not consented to by student referendum. Student Services would very much have benefited from the injection of an additional €2.4 million, however, going forward it would be our recommendation that funding for essential student services be secured within, rather than beyond, the confines of the law.”

The announcement comes at a good time for the UCCSU, who have been facing heavy criticism after they announced a giveaway of tickets to the

band Versatile, known for their controversial lyrics and for previously posing in blackface online. Reversing the fee increase is a major victory for the current SU, who have been protesting against the idea since it was suggested earlier in 2019.

Issue 6 | Tuesday 26th November 2019 | University Express

USI Launch Mental Health Helpline Writes Samantha Calthrop, News Editor

When asked to comment, a representative of UCC told the Express, “The capitation fee at UCC is used solely for student services, such as counselling and support, mental health services, sports and recreations facilities and a fund for students who are experiencing financial difficulties…UCC wishes to continue its engagement with its students to ensure these essential services are provided for the entire student body.”

The representative also pointed out that UCC has one of the lowest capitation fees in the higher education system.

UCCSU President Ben Dunlea, speaking on the fee reversal, said, “UCC and UCC Students’ Union have a close relationship built upon a fundamental respect for one another and it is due to this respect that this Union’s Executive engaged pro-actively with the University over the past several months. While I am thrilled to see UCC reverse their decision, I am disheartened that this was a decision that only became possible after a threat of litigation was issued by the Union’s representatives. As an institution that is heavily funded by the public, it is important that we remain accountable to the public.”

“It is a condemnation of the system that the only barrier to the introduction of a potentially unlawful fee was several Student Union Officers and the students who campaigned alongside us.”

Mental health in students is an increasing problem, with growing pressure on counselling services at universities. That is according to the USI National Report on Student Mental Health in Third Level Education, which surveyed over 3000 students, found that 33% of participants had been diagnosed with a mental health problem, 70% of whom were diagnosed with anxiety or depression.

problem halved. It’s OK not to feel ok and we want you to know that there are support services available both on and off campus.”

“Mental health is something that affects us all. College is a fun time but also a lot of stress and pressure can be put on students during their time in college,” said USI Vice President for Welfare, Róisín O’Donovan, “It’s important that students realise that it’s good to talk about these stresses and that a problem shared is a

“We encourage all students to seek help and practice daily self care, as third level education is such a trying time between college deadlines, study, part-time work and maintaining family and friend relationships.”

USI President Lorna Fitzpatrick, speaking on the launching of the helpline, “This is such an important resource for students, anxiety and depression is something that an uncountable amount of students suffer from on a day to day basis. In the USI National ReUSI have been actively campaign- port on Student Mental Health in ing on the issue of mental health Third Level Education, we found in students, most recently cam- that 34.4% of students were put on paigning with Sligo IT and 3ts to a waiting list for counselling serlaunch the ‘Share the Load’ ini- vices for at least one week, this text tiative, in honour of Internation- line is available 24 hours a day, 7 al Men’s Day. ‘Share the Load’ days a week. While a fifth [20.9%] highlighted the large proportion of students reported not having of male suicide victims; 80% someone to talk to about perof deaths by suicide are male. sonal and emotional difficulties.”

To contact the helpline, text USI to 086 1800 280 to begin.

Issue 6 | Tuesday 26th November 2019 | University Express

News

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ing them secure employment.

The fund will also be used to support students with exciting business start-up ideas.”

Anonymous Donor Gives $1,000,000 to School of Business Writes Samantha Calthrop , News Editor UCC’s School of Business is to benefit from a $1,000,000 philanthropic gift from a donor who has chosen to remain anonymous, with the money set to go towards scholarships, student

entrepreneurship programmes and work experience funds.

“Cork University Business School is at an exciting stage of development, with growing student

numbers and plans for a new building,” said Professor Thia Hennessy, dean of the school of CUBS. “This very generous philanthropic gift will allow us to focus on initiatives to improve the student experience in ways that we could otherwise not afford.”

“Although we are starting from a very high base, with 95% of our students finding immediate employment, we plan to use this fund to support students in developing their professional skills, help-

The donation comes at a good time for Cork University Business School (CUBS), which has a new campus being built in the city centre.

The new building will accommodate 4000 students, and will open onto Union Quay.

“This donation demonstrates the impact philanthropy can make in accelerating change for Cork University Business School and advancing excellence in our teaching,” said CUBS head of development Rose Phelan.

“This is not a gift just for the students of CUBS but for the future of business in Cork more generally.”

CORK REFLECTS ON 10th Anniversary of Devastating Floods Writes Maeve O’Sullivan, Deputy News Editor November 19th & 20th brought about the dark memories of the flood that left Cork city and University College Cork with nearly €100m worth of damages.

When the River Lee could no longer withhold from the strains of the rising water levels from weeks of heavy rainfall and high tides, it bursts it’s banks, releasing with it three million tonnes of water. UCC expert, Paul Leahy, exclaimed that the soils in the area were already saturated from the excess rainfall and that it affected the soil’s ‘’ability to absorb further rainfall’’.

The water levels, three times the amount that flows through the Mississippi on a daily basis, left UCC institutions such as the Connolly building, Glucskman Gallery, the Maradyke Arena severely damaged. In total, 30 of UCC’s 80 buildings were submerged in water, leaving the University closed for the week.

The flood, which was unfortunately unpredicted, significantly exceeded any previous records of flooding on UCC campus since the construction of the Inniscarra Dam, only 8 miles from UCC, in the 1950s.

Overall, the main impacts of the flood were felt on the western side of the city, which coincides along the front of the University. Additionally, the Kingsley Hotel, County Hall and the Mercy Hospital were further sites affected by the catastrophic flood. Emergency evacuation was the priority for the Mercy in the initial effects of the flood.

Since the flood, there a been a number of legal proceedings involving UCC and ESB in relation to the fault of the flood. Based on grounds of safety, ESB released millions of tonnes of water from the Inniscara Dam, prior to the flood. Over a 104-day trail in

2015, the High Court ruled that the Electricity Supply Board was 60% liable for the damage to the University. Mr Justice Barret ruled in favour for UCC against ESB for the compensation of the flood damage. A statement from the University exclaimed that ‘’The ruling provides an important clarification on the obligations of the dam operators and property owners in the sphere of flood management’’.

a further €14m for losses suffered by other property owners.

Despite this ruling, 2018 saw further legal action taken in attempt to appeal the decision, this time, heard in the Supreme Court. ESB wished to appeal the liability placed on them that resulted in insurance provider Aviva, on behalf of UCC, seeking €20m for losses at UCC and

The three-judge court overturned High Court findings that the ESB was ’60 per cent liable’ in respect of flooding and warnings.

The damage arose “from a natural event”, ESB did not cause the flooding of UCC’s buildings and it had no legal duty to avoid unnecessary flooding, the court ruled.

The ESB operates 16 Category A dams within the State and the case addressed issues including the liability of a dam operator in respect of persons downstream; the law relating to the existence of duty of care; the definition of any such duty and the liability of statutory undertakings generally and in the law of nuisance.

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Features

Issue 6 | Tuesday 26th November 2019 | University Express

Addiction and Our Pain, Writes Fergus Damery The issue of addiction in Irish society today is one of growing concern for many people. Opioid, (mainly heroin), alcohol, cocaine and benzodiazepine addiction, as well as gaming, gambling and internet porn addiction are growing problems in Ireland. According to a study published by the Health Research Board of Ireland (HRB), the number of cases treated for problem drug use increased from 8,361 in 2011 to 8,922 in 2017.

Benzodiazepine use has seen a rise from 636 cases in 2012 to 999 in 2018, while treatment for cocaine dependency has increased by 318% from 708 cases in 2013 to 2,254 in 2018. Issues with opioid use prior to treatment has risen from 4,016 cases in 2017 to 4,349 in 2018. This is second only to alcohol problem use, with the latest available figures of cases treated in 2017 at 7,350. As recently released by the HRB, the overall number of cases treated for problem drug use during 2018 was 10,274. Of this, opioids made up 42%, Cocaine 22% and Benzodiazepines, 10%. Although worrying in themselves, these figures only make up a small fraction of the overall number of problem drug users in Ireland. The current nationwide rates of drug and alcohol addiction when including those not receiving treatment is, in fact, much greater. This can be seen first-hand in Cork City and Dublin City today with a significant rise in intravenous drug use and problematic alcohol and drug consumption in public places.

Another study conducted by researchers at the University of Hong Kong over 31 countries, including Ireland, on internet addiction, estimated an overall rate of 6% worldwide. Gaming addiction is a relatively new phenomenon in Ireland, but it has become so prevalent that there is now a specific gaming addiction treatment service in Dublin. Official statistics of gambling in Ireland were published on Gov.ie in February of this year and problem gambling is experienced by 0.8% of the overall population which equates to 38,640 people. And

while no official statistics exist on sex and porn addiction in this country, it can be just as problematic for people and has been acknowledged by Senator and qualified addiction counsellor, Frances Black, as having come to the attention of her charity, The RISE Foundation, stating that more resources are needed to deal with the problem. Considering the growing rates of substance addiction and behavioural addiction in Ireland and throughout the world, the evidence would suggest that addiction is not isolated to substance abuse, addiction can come in many forms, behavioural or otherwise. To many in the public, the person who struggles with addiction is often seen as selfish and deserving of the negative consequences of their behaviour. Many perceive that the addicted person chooses to be dependent on his or her substance or behaviour, and many family members of the addicted person see them as having simply chosen their addictive behaviour over their own family. This article however is not in any way aiming to trivialise the pain suffered by the friends and family members of the addicted person, it is simply an attempt to bring a better understanding of the person who struggles with addiction, and what the causes of addiction are. With this in mind I interviewed Mick Devine, Clinical Director and Addiction Counsellor at Tabor Lodge Addiction treatment centre, Belgooly, Co. Cork, to find out more about the causes of addiction both for the individual and in our society.

What is the definition of addiction?

“Addiction is a primary, chronic disease of brain reward, motivation, memory and related circuitry. Dysfunction in these circuits leads to characteristic biological, psychological, social and spiritual manifestations. This is reflected in an individual pathologically pursuing reward and/or relief by substance use and other behaviours.

Addiction is characterised by inability to consistently abstain, impairment in behavioural control, craving, diminished recognition of significant problems with one’s behaviours and interpersonal relationships and a dysfunctional emotional response.

Like other chronic dis-eases, addiction often involves cycles of relapse and remission. Without treatment or engagement in recovery activities, addiction is progressive and can result in disability or premature death.”

gaming

and

sexual

activity.”

Who are most at risk at becoming addicted?

“Firstly, people who come from addicted families are at risk of becoming addicted. This may suggest that this is due to a genetic component in addiction, or alternatively that it is passed on to the next generation due to the trauma of having an addicted parent. People from deprived and disadvantaged socio-economic environments are also at risk of (American Society of Addiction becoming addicted. People who Medicine) were children in environments where there were adverse events What are the common myths that overwhelmed the child caussurrounding addiction and ing the child to be traumatised are known to be more prone to beaddictive behaviours? coming addicted.”

“One common myth is that addicted people lack the willpower to successfully manage their addiction. Another myth is that addicted people are morally inferior or that their character is logically defective and so cannot manage their addiction.

Another myth is that addicted people cannot successfully commit to a drug free lifestyle.”

Does addiction have to involve a substance?

“No, addiction can be behavioural, for instance gambling,

What are the damaging factors of low socio-economic status/inequality that may lead people to become addicted?

“The stress of poverty, the challenges to mental health poverty creates, the deprivation of the environment, unemployment and lack of educational opportunities all lead to the appeal of using mood altering substances. It’s not automatically the cause of addiction, of course, and it’s not the only cause.”

Issue 6 | Tuesday 26th November 2019 | University Express

Is addiction genetic?

psychosis, depression and undermine a person’s capacity to manage mental health which may contribute to an overall deterioration of mental health.”

Features

trialised society today make and have, in the past, made, “consistent emotional nurturing” a near “I don’t know if it is established as impossible task for parents. To proof that addiction is genetic but add to this, adverse childhood in my experience in Tabor Group, experience can take many forms. the overwhelming evidence is that It could be schoolyard bullying, addiction runs in families and that Mick Devine is Clinical Direc- the tragic loss of a parent, or it clients of Tabor Group frequently tor and an Addiction Counsellor could be actual physical abuse, report other family members who at Tabor Lodge Addiction treat- it can be encountered in any sceare also addicted. In most cases ment centre, Belgooly, Co. Cork. nario or environment and is not this is their Father. Alternatively, He has an advanced Diploma in any one person’s fault. Again, noit could be argued that inter-gen- Counselling from Manchester body is to blame here, people are erational addiction is passed University and also has a Certif- only doing the best they can with down from one generation to the icate in Family Systems from the what they have. This said, even if next from due to the emotional Bert Hellinger Institute of Ire- a person’s developmental needs trauma of being raised by a par- land. He was appointed to the have been met, the lack of auent that struggles with addiction.” role of Administrator in 2000. thentic interaction and high rates He became Clinical Director at of social isolation which characTabor Lodge in 2011. Mick’s role terise our modern technological Addiction & the environment entails overseeing all aspects of society could lead anyone to seek – how does it develop in a treatment delivery and develop- short term fulfilment in substance person – what are the risk ment at Tabor Lodge. He is a ful- abuse or addictive behaviour. factors? ly accredited member of Addiction Counselling Ireland (ACI).

The wider socio-economic envi“Current research on adverse ronment a person grows up in, childhood experience suggests Based on the answers provid- as stated in the interview, can that there is a correlation be- ed by Mick Devine in the above also have a significant impact on tween clients of addiction ser- interview and the evidence pre- a person’s susceptibility to addicvices reporting a high number sented previously, it can be stat- tion. The lack of employment and of adverse childhood experienc- ed that addiction is not primarily educational opportunities, higher es and the resulting addiction. a substance abuse issue. It can rates of crime, prejudiced policIt seems to be well established manifest itself in many forms of ing and the psycho-social stress now that the drugs of addiction behavioural addiction including experienced by people in lower and the behaviours of addiction sex, gambling, internet and gam- socio-economic communities due provide relief from and soothe ing addiction which would sug- to these factors, are among the the dysregulated and uncomfort- gest that both ‘Illicit’ drugs and many contributors. This stress able inner states that people who legal drugs are not necessarily is exacerbated by the economic were children in challenging envi- addictive in and of themselves. disparity between lower income ronments are prone to develop.” After all, not everyone who drinks and middle-class communities becomes an alcoholic, the same and the superiority complex ofapplies to heroin, cocaine or any ten displayed by those in midWhat is the relationship be- other type of drug or behaviour. dle-class communities towards tween addiction and mental Most people who struggle with adpeople of lower socio-economic health? diction have suffered some form status. According to a review conof emotional trauma, or loss of ducted by the UK Mental Health “Again, people with mental health emotional fulfilment in their lives Foundation, “Across the UK, both challenges may use very potent as stated by Dr. Gabor Mate in his men and women in the poorest mood-altering chemicals to man- best-selling book on addiction, fifth of the population are twice age very painful mentally ill health “In the Realm of Hungry Ghosts”: as likely to be at risk of developstates. This makes them suscepti- “For each emotionally traumatic ing mental health problems as ble to addiction as they continue childhood circumstance, there is those on average incomes.” A to use and use larger quantities a two-to-threefold increase in the person cannot on any human or of the substance. This leads to an likelihood of early alcohol abuse.” rational basis, be judged or exincrease in tolerance and an in- Furthermore, he states, “The cluded nor held up and revered, creased need to use more of the three environmental conditions based on their socio-economic substance. Uncomfortable with- absolutely essential to optimal status, it is simply not relevant. drawal effects can lead to further human brain development are mental health challenges and nutrition, physical security and Now, in August of this year, the so there is a spiral of deteriorat- consistent emotional nurturing”.

Irish government has announced ing mental health and increased This statement, though divisive, plans to move towards a healthshould be taken seriously.

Howuse of addictive substances. ever, it is not in any way an invi- based approach and away from tation to blame the parents of the criminalisation in regards to drug On the other hand, the use of ad- addicted person. The social and addiction treatment, and rightly dictive substances can lead to economic stressors in our indus- so. This model was adopted by

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Portugal in 2001 with great success, while they were experiencing an addiction crisis. Eighteen years later, the country now has one of the lowest rates of overdose deaths in Europe per capita, with 3 overdose deaths per million people, compared to the EU average of 17 per million.

All things considered, for the addicted person it cannot be denied that they have suffered some form of emotional trauma or loss in their lives. At the root of all addiction is emotional pain, addictive behaviour is just an attempt to ease that pain. According to a review published by the U.S. National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, “Early-childhood trauma is strongly associated with developing mental health problems, including alcohol dependence.” Similarly, according to a study published by the Kerman University of Medical Sciences on “The Relationship between Childhood Maltreatment and Opiate Dependency in Adolescence and Middle Age”, stated, “Childhood maltreatment impacts brain architecture, psychological development and cognitive and social functioning through various bio-psychosocial mechanisms. These effects result in an increased probability of drug abuse in higher ages.”

So how then, in light of all the evidence available, can we shame the addict, accuse them and blame them for their behaviour?

If addiction is rooted in childhood trauma, loneliness, rejection and pain, how can we dismiss the alcohol dependent person as selfish and lazy, and the heroin addicted user as criminal for their behaviour? How then can we prosecute and incarcerate the most traumatised and downtrodden people in our cities and communities for simply attempting to soothe their pain? If we can, we can only do so in ignorance, we can only do so in denial, for once we know better we cannot continue with our attitudes of indifference, shaped by the ‘war on drugs’, the war on the most vulnerable people in our society.

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Features

Issue 6 | Tuesday 26th November 2019 | University Express

The Confessions of a Student Elf Writes Roisin O’Donnell, Features Editor

Last winter, this Features writer was dawning red and green, feeding plastic reindeer and coated in glitter. My experience as an elf started as my experience playing a witch ended. I thought spending most of my teenage Thursday nights at a drama school would have prepared me, made me fit for the role of Ginger the Elf. I could not have been further from the actual reality of being a student elf.

comparison to it. Rarely a queue, tantrums from parents and children at a minimum and going for long walks in character trying to pass off flyers to anyone.

That all changed when the plastic reindeer and slay came out to play.

It was the beginning of my heart shrinking two sizes and my complexion becoming a little green.

keep coming back. Every day I would hide my dark circles with concealer, slap on rosy cheeks and glitter, and fish around in a plastic bin for a costume that smelt that slight bit better.

The only time I wanted to quit was when someone drank my apple juice which I had hidden for energy. Know your f$%king place!

In the next room over, Ginger the elf also forgot to turn the snow machine off when the children entered. The white flakes sprinkling out of the machine turn to a spray of icy water and soaked everyone. Crying and panic ensued.

And in the final room of the experience, a small sauna made up I feel like I am setting this up So, there I was, hiding my wa- to look like both a candy-cane too negatively, so let’s take a ter bottle in my hat, chocolate and Santa’s bedroom, Ginger the elf guarded the tower of ‘Tis is the season to be in a step back. As much as I am not for emergency energy and al- presents from sticky hands. sweaty-scented elf costume for planning to return to my elf gig lowed one 15-minute break in a The elf used problem-solving again, I made so many children nine-hour day if they remember two months. and adults smile. And it was part to relieve us from our station. skills to decode which present of my job to see babies! Some of Speaking of relieving, most of under the wrapping was suitI swapped my black and pur- my favourite most relaxing mo- the elves avoided drinking water able for which child. My elf reple pin-jammed witch costume ments came from the most cha- because elves were not encour- sponsibilities somehow extendat the under-the-table Christ- otic place in the Christmas expe- aged to go to the bathroom. The ed to putting Santa – with – a mas business I was working rience: the waiting room. There I team was as close to the real San- – bad – back’s boots on and off. for. The business used sets got to sit with beaming children, ta’s operation as you could get. and actors to create many ‘ex- hear about their Christmas lists, To conclude, was this the worst periences’ for young children watch several Fortnite dancejob ever? No. Did I still enjoy at Christmas time, Halloween offs, and colour with crayons. Of course, this was the spark for that Christmassy feeling after most of the misfortunes to fall on and even Easter. It operated Santa’s workshop. An overworked two weeks? I was drained aflike a guided tour, repeated for ter spending nine-hour days in hundreds of children and made I remember a quiet toddler holding Ginger the elf fought with a nine- slippers with no arch support, its money off a photo session my hand as they drifted off into a year-old over whether the plas- to put it lightly. What I hope in the final stop on the tour. I nap and a concerned mother ask- tic reindeer was real or not and readers take away from this was in my first year of college, ing me when I had last had a break nearly fell with grief to the hay Feature is to be patient and young and naive, thinking it and offering to buy me a sandwich. covered floor when the child then show some empathy with seaproceeded to hit Rudolph to prove would be fun to bring the joy of he was indeed not real. Spending sonal workers: we are not elves Christmas to strange children because we wear a costume. at the beginning of November. I suppose the persona of Ginger eight hours a day in a room with My experience as a Hallow- the Christmas elf and the hope eight faux fur reindeer creates een entertainer was heaven in that I could make someone’s some interesting friendships. day that much better made me

Issue 6 | Tuesday 26th November 2019 | University Express

Features

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Study Week – Preparing for (and surviving) Battle Writes Molly O’Rourke, Deputy Features Editor Before students can enjoy the Christmas festivities, we must endure the dreaded study week and exam period, which serve as bleak reminders of the real reasons we are in university. Gone are the carefree days of procrastinating and simply not thinking about exams. We are now suddenly reminded of every lecture we skipped, all those notes we chose not to take and the staggering pile of recommended readings you never downloaded from Canvas. Don’t panic though, you still have time to make the most of study week and come out the other end still intact.

it. Exercising, (particularly outdoors), releases endorphins in the brain, which in turn reduces stress levels and helps you feel more positive. Additionally, exercising for 15-20 minutes has been proven to give you increased levels of energy and jumpstarts your brain’s cognitive performance.

Take Breaks.

Even during an intense cramming session, you have to make sure you’re taking breaks. Our brains can only focus on one subject for so long before switching off. According to studies, we can only effectively absorb information in the first and last 15 minutes of studying, everything else Get Some Sleep. won’t make it into our long-term Whether you’re in first or fi- memory. Consider spending nal year, this can be a stressful 30-minute blocks studying, with time of year, so it is important short breaks in between. Get up to take care of yourself; both and stretch your legs, head to mind and body. Make sure you the bathroom or grab a snack beare getting enough sleep in, to fore settling in for the next block. recharge your brain and have Remember as well to take lonit ready to go again. Staying ger breaks throughout the day, up until all hours studying can nobody wants to spend a full 12 actually be counterproductive, hours festering in the Fishbowl. as tiredness and fatigue affect our brain cells’ ability to memStudy Effectively. orise information and communicate with each other. Getting Everybody has a preferred metha good night’s sleep leads to a od of studying, what works best fresh mind and improved mem- for them. Some people can sit ory for learned information. and read a textbook front to back, retaining every important point, while others spend days producHealthy Diet. ing endless piles of colour-coded It may seem easier to spend flashcards. Find a method that study week living on energy suits you best and work with that. drinks, coffee and snacks from Remember to break assignments An Siopa, but you have to fuel and subjects down into sections your body and brain with the and focus on tackling one section proper food. Keeping a balanced at a time. Make a study planner diet will help your performance, or to-do list to keep track of what and you won’t end the week you’ve covered and what needs looking like a zombie. Make to be looked at. It also helps to sure you have some fruit or stay in touch with your classvegetables, (bananas and blue- mates to see what they’re coverberries are great brain food!), ing and stay on the right track. and limit your caffeine intake. Lastly, switch up the order you study subjects in; spending all your time on one topic can lead to Get Moving. boredom and loss of motivation.

This one is spouted by parents and teachers around the counStay Social. try, but there is science behind

Don’t become a library hermit, cutting yourself off from the outside world and letting a highlighter become your new best friend.

Stay in contact with your family and friends, arrange to meet them for coffee or lunch, or even a walk. Having social meetings to look forward to is a great way to find motivation, and you’ll find the study time goes faster. If you are really stuck on a specific subject, organise a study group with your friends to discuss it together.

Talk it Out. If you are feeling overwhelmed with the stress and pressure of exams, don’t bottle it up. Looking after our mental health and wellbeing is far more important than exam results, so don’t let study week overpower you. Consider talking to someone about how you feel, whether it’s a friend, family member or a professional. UCC offers free counselling to students, in the Student Health Centre, and the Students Union Welfare team is on hand to help as well; (welfare@uccsu.ie).

Respect Library Etiquette.

Finally, if you are planning to spend the week sequestered in the library, have respect for the other students there. Don’t hog a precious socket all day, leave it for another poor soul once you’re fully charged. Avoid listening to music at a high volume; the person next to you can probably hear the songs blaring through your Airpods. If you are snacking while studying, choose foods that don’t make a loud crunch or have a strong smell. Keep any conversations whispered and short, or else bring them into the stairwell.

Everyone is in the same boat, so take others into consideration.

It is important to remember that the exam period is only a short time and once it’s over you get two or more weeks off, having time away from the books to enjoy festive celebrations. At the end of the day, you’ll hold more value in the memories and experiences you enjoyed during university over that economics exam you barely scraped through.

Best of luck to everyone in the coming weeks, look after yourselves and your friends.

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Features

Issue 6 | Tuesday 26th November 2019 | University Express

Lecturer Profile: Dr Amanullah de Sondy Dr Amanullah de Sondy is a senior lecturer of Contemporary Islam at UCC, and has an extensive career as a writer, speaker and activist in public understanding of Islam. His first book, The Crisis of Islamic Masculinities, was published by Bloomsbury Press in 2014. Originally hailing from Glasgow, Dr de Sondy arrived at UCC in 2015, where his research now specialises in the connections between Islam and gender, race, ethnicity, and pluralism.

Writes Samantha Calthrop , News Editor Dr de Sondy was recently awarded the ‘Narratives of Equality, Diversity and Inclusion’ grant by UCC’s Equality Unit, and is set to hold a photographic exhibition on the topic of Islamophobia and at UCC for Equality Week 2020.

I met Dr de Sondy to ask him about his upcoming exhibition, and on the Irish context that drove him to curate it.

I wanted to ask you about your exhibition, and on the general topic of Islam and Islamophpbia in Cork and Ireland.

This is really coming from the equalities committee. They put a call out for grants, and I’ve been thinking about this ever since I’ve been in Ireland, in 2015. The lack of discussion on Islamophobia, and the lack of discussion on race and racism…

And any kind of discussion we have on racism becomes very defensive, to the extent that it becomes a battle of competing claims; that we, the Irish, can’t be racist or Islamophobic because we’ve had such a tumultuous history. Now, nobody’s taking that away, but that doesn’t mean that you completely dismiss the reality. The reality is that in Europe, and here in Ireland, there is a rise of anti-Muslim hate— if you want to call it Islamophobia.

There is a rise in hate crimes, there’s a rise in very racist, right-wing white supremacist politics, that needs to be countered. Thinking about that context, I thought it would be

a good idea to propose a visual display of Muslims of UCC. It’s not about profiling. It’s not about, ‘Oh, look at this Muslim woman, look at this Muslim guy.’

I don’t want it to be that. I want it to be Muslims taking control of the narrative; taking control of how they combat Islamophobia, how they combat everyday microaggressions. Racists and Islamophobes are a lot more sophisticated. They have very covert ways of attacking and of abusing individuals. Now, someone might turn around and say, ‘Why are Muslims being highlighted here at UCC?’ Well, because they are one set of minorities who are affected. But my emphasis has always been that all our social injustices are connected; if we call out Islamophobia, we must do it in the same breath as calling out other prejudices, such as homophobia and misogyny. All of these injustices are connected. My interest is because I’m here teaching Contemporary Islam, as an academic, as a Muslim myself, is that maybe we could all learn something from having, from listening and seeing Muslims in and around UCC Campus to highlight some of these equalities. I think we are moving at a very fast pace here at UCC, in terms of our diversity, equality and inclusions strategies. That’s something very positive. But we can’t be complacent. There will be individuals who want to draw us back to the burning of bridges, and that, we always have to be ready to counter. I want this to be a way for us to move forward.

So this is almost about proving to people who say there is no racism in Ireland, this is a welcoming place, that we can’t be oppressive, by showing these real experiences…

It’s… I hope it’s not an exhibition

about proving people wrong or proving people right. It’s about being empathetic, about being more aware of the privileges that some of us have that we don’t appreciate. What it means for a Muslims woman to walk down Western Road…How must that feel in a time where a lot of people are very verbal and are attacking Muslim women, because Muslim women are easy targets?

It’s about just appreciating that a little bit more. It’s not about saying, ‘You said that Islamophobia doesn’t exist. You said that Ireland is not racist. You’re proven wrong.’ If we start going down that road, no-one’s going to win.

What we need is to come together. We need to stand shoulder to shoulder, to actually unite and discuss these things together. The more we talk about these things, the more we draw closer to each other in a human way. I think that a lot of the time we don’t do that.

Last year, when the Express published an article about [levels of racism experienced by students], the immediate response was, ‘No, the way of carrying this out was wrong, this doesn’t exist’. And I just thought, we’re not really going to get very far if you’re continually trying to say that everything is hunky dory, it’s all grand here lads. It’s not. It’s easy for a white, privileged person to say that, but for your average marginalised person, for individuals who are visibly different, it’s not. Especially when they don’t have any power. I get to say what I say because I’m a senior lecturer here; people think twice before they respond to me, because they know that the university protects me and all that. But I worry about your average Muslim student on campus, or your black student… Again, all these injustices are linked. The more we visually see that difference, I think some way it will help to break down these inequalities.

So it’s a more empathetic view; this is your community, this is what’s happening.

It’s about raising this idea that we’re all in it together. We have to all be in it together. As soon as you fall trap to this ‘us and them’ mentality, we’ve all lost.

But in order to break that, we also can’t continually throw out this narrative that everything’s grand. We seem to be at a [time] where that’s what I’m hearing.

I saw an article in the Irish Examiner that showed all these wonderful things that all the Irish people are doing to combat racism, but the response to it on Twitter was, ‘That’s really nice, but it doesn’t take away from the fact that there is actually racism’. I think what we need is a more pragmatic, a more realistic approach where we are able to combat that.

It’s not taking away from free speech, people can say whatever they want. They can be racist, they can be Islamophobes. It’s not about shutting them down.

It’s about countering that hate.

I hope that in some way we are on the same page when it comes to countering hate.

On the general topic of Islamophobia in Ireland, I know that you’ve had experience with that. A couple of months ago, you received a phone call from someone threatening you, and as you say, you are one of the more privileged people.

That’s one of the reasons why I want this visual display to be a success, because if I’m getting that abuse, being in such a privileged position, with all the great platforms I get… What kind of abuse is your average Muslim getting? What is hap-

Issue 6 | Tuesday 26th November 2019 | University Express

pening to your average Muslim?

So this exhibition will be about, hopefully, getting Muslims to come forward, and empowering their narrative. Empowering their voices, so it’s about passing the microphone to those without those platforms. I want to empower Muslims by doing this; I don’t want this to be, ‘Oh, look at this woman who’s got a headscarf on, she’s at UCC!’ I hope it doesn’t become that. I was thinking one way of doing that would be getting the Muslims we want to showcase to take a selfie. When you take a selfie, you’re actually in control of that. The library is actually in talks with me, they’ve said that they’d be quite happy to display this...It’s little things.

Really, if there’s anything I can say to you, it’s small things that draw us closer. If we begin to see that we’re not that different, when it comes to real issues with we’re all dealing with… We do have to appreciate all of the cultural and religious trajectories that we’ve all come from.

So it’s like… this is us, these are our students and our peers, who might have an experience that’s different to mine, as everyone has different experiences.

I hope it will be both heartwarming, but also critical.

Make us a little bit agitated!

Because real change in society often comes when you agitate people. Good educators here at UCC will agitate their students so that they will be thinking about issues, and they learn from that. I hope that by seeing this visual display of Muslims around UCC, we move forward and move closer to one another.

Photo Credit: Leahy Photos

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It sounds like the exhibition which was a very different exis kind of in a planning stage, Yes, although it’s most like- perience for me. But I’ve seen a and you’re waiting for people ly looking like the library. rapid change. Our student deto come forward so you can mographic has changed. There plan it together with them. You mentioned that there’s are so many more minorities been very much a rise in Is- that you visibly see. At college It will be to get the best possi- lamophobia, hate crime and level, at senior management ble way of putting an exhibi- White supremacy, and that’s level, there is a deep concern tion together that will empower. been progressing very rapid- about how to make this better. ly in Ireland. What direction So it’s almost a commu- would you say that’s going in, I think you can’t know what’s nity-led approach you’re in the country and in UCC? going to happen tomorrow, taking to the exhibition, but if you read the news and where you’re looking to What’s happening in the coun- some of the comments accuswork with people and see try politically is only just start- ing immigrants about where what they want to present. ing. We’re seeing a rise in people they’re sending their moncoming out with very racist vitri- ey… All of these things hype We’ll be quite limited, but… It’ll ol. The recent Fine Gael member up a tension, a great fuel to be their narrative. It’ll be may- from Waterford who said that we fire this sentiment of racism.

All these hateful characters now connect through social media, that’s very worrying.

“It’s not taking away from free speech….

It’s not about shutting them down.

It’s about countering that hate...” be a few lines about themselves, how they combat things, if they experience any Islamophobia. So it becomes a kind of educational tool where we can learn from these varied people. I would curate it, so that we remain focused on what we’re trying to achieve; Muslims of UCC and how they combat everyday Islamophobia.

need to de-program some of our immigrants because they might have some inclination towards ISIS…That’s Islamophobic. Then the next day you have ‘Oh I’m very sorry, I shouldn’t have said that’. That tells a lot. It’s very worrying. That’s happening outside, but in UCC, we’re doing amazingly well! When I came here in 2015, I walked in and thought So, you’re aiming for Equal- I wanted to walk out, because ity Week, although the date I thought, ‘This campus is so and time is still up in the air? white!’. I came here from Miami,

Assuming that there are Muslim students reading this who would like to get involved, what would you advise?

I would say to get in touch with me, send me an email and we can have a discussion.

All ideas will be welcome, but it’ll have to be visual. That’s the stipulation of the grant.

This is interesting because it’s less an art exhibition and more of an outreach project.

Art can be understood in many different ways. I’m kind of overwhelmed by the positive response I’ve had after receiving this grant. People have said they’re wanting to help out, and international students have showed greater enthusiasm.

Dr de Sondy can be contacted at amanullah.desondy@ ucc.ie. The exhibition is set to run in Spring 2020.

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Opinion

Issue 6 | Tuesday 26th November 2019 | University Express

Crimes Against Humanity Writes Lennon J. Wall Having followed the news about the Hong Kong protests intently since May 2019, the events occurred, and occurring in Hong Kong cannot be overlooked, from an economic, academic, medical, environmental and most importantly from a humanitarian perspective. Crimes against humanity, according to the UN, is not restricted to genocide and extermination, but includes sexual violence, enforced disappearance, persecution and other acts to a nation or at a specific population.

And having witnessed some of these events, live in front of my very eyes, both the Hong Kong and mainland Chinese government have transgressed severely.

3. Independent investigation committee 4. Never raise the extradition law again 5. Authentic universal suffrage (found as graffiti in the Chinese University of Hong Kong)

be understood both sympathetically and empathically. However, a student has posed this question to Lord Chris Patten, the last governor of Hong Kong.

mated arrest figure of over 4200 people, deploying undercover police dressed as “protestors” engaging in “riot” activities, firing live rounds at point blank range, involving triads to beat up civil“Well it’s all very well …Gover- ians and show up late as the officer nor Patten...what happens if the claims to not carry a watch, dropChinese do continue to squeeze ping a baton that explicitly shows us? What will the rest of the it came from mainland China, Having lived in Hong Kong for a world do? What will you do in using more concentrated tear gas portion of my childhood, the city Britain? What will the United (some of which are expired with has a unique perspective that no States do? What will Europe do? toxins such as Cyanide), running other place in the world has. One What will you do personally?” protestors down using police veof the characteristics of the citihicles, “accidentally” firing tear zens was their lack of interest in gas onto the 7th floor of an apartpolitics. But with the erosion of The most applicable case would ment block, arresting citizens in the one-country two systems (in be China’s pressure on the NBA. the lobby of their apartment, the short, one China, two adminis- The act of “kowtow-ing” (grovel- unknown death of Alex Chow, and trative and economic systems), ling) to China in order to do busi- arresting an office worker who the Chinese rejection of the joint ness has been practiced for centu- was alone on his way home for ries. It is simply wrong. Morals In May, the proposed extradition Sino-British declaration in 1984, and humanitarianism should “illegal assembly” to name a few. bill caused an uproar as the “pro- the abduction of a book seller in never concede to such demands posed charges would have al- Causeway Bay, zero progress in in the name of profit. This is lowed for the Hong Kong govern- true universal suffrage, all these what made the West so appealing If these acts are not state terror ment to consider requests from events amongst many others to many Hong Kong emigrants, and prosecution of a specific popany country for extradition of have led to general dissatisfaction because of the moral values, ulation which are crimes against criminal suspects.” This meant and distrust towards the Chinese justice and freedom of speech. humanity, then what should these events be labelled as? If one criminals could be charged by government, and the ignition of examines each case individually, what is the law in Hong Kong, or this mass unrest in Hong Kong.

On the 12th of November, the most violent acts of protest are what passes as law in China if ex- Fast forward six months, Chief Hong Kong Police Force infiltratcarried out in retaliation, or ditradited. This resulted in mass, Executive Ms Lam said it would peaceful protests with one, and be “wishful thinking” for the Hong ed the Chinese University of Hong rected to those in favour of the two million taking to the streets Kong government to concede to Kong (CUHK). This resulted in government and police. Other in June in two respective pro- the demands of the protestors. some students labelling it as an- acts such as public obstruction tests, calling for the bill to be With President Xi backing the other 6/4 Tiananmen Square in- and arson were carried out for th withdrawn. With the peaceful government by claiming attempts cident. On the 17 of November, their own protection, slow down protests being ignored by the to divide China would result in the police surrounded Hong Kong and to divide the attention of the government, and the inexplicable “crushed bodies, shattered bones”. Polytechnic University (PolyU) riot police. However, some acts, and attempted to arrest the pro- with evidence, were carried out by use of tear gas and police violence, testors, some of whom were still undercover police, or were paid the unrest has only escalated.

During a debate in the House of in secondary school. During the by the government with support Chinese state media in my opin- Lords on Hong Kong’s political heated siege at PolyU, threats from China. It is not true in sayion wrongly portray the Hong crisis in late October, a speak- of using live ammunition came ing every violent / public nuisance Kong protests as an indepen- er said “I will quote a few words from the police. Voluntary first act were carried out by genuine dence movement. This was from a woman…This mother in aiders were arrested, the MSF protestors. That is not to say any never the case. In addition, the Hong Kong speaks of living in rejected to go to PolyU to pro- violence is justified, on both sides. mainland Chinese government a city, where floating corpses vide humanitarian aid and riot has been paying 50c to Chinese sometimes decapitated are being police were found inside an aminternet users per post on glori- found in the sea, and alleged sui- bulance to arrest those seeking But figures don’t lie. There have fying government and spreading cides in and around residential medical attention. On Monday been more casualties, from minor “fake news”, The controversial buildings, with police culpability as some protestors gave in and to serious, caused by the police extradition bill has caused a lot widely thought to be involved in a attempted to escape, they were than by protestors. As of now, of harm for the city, which is now city,,, reports of beatings, of sexu- met with tear gas, police brutali- not a single police officer has in a technical recession. Howev- al violence against young women ty before being arrested properly. been prosecuted. If these are not er, its property market remains of denial of medical treatment.” some of the many crimes against robust amidst the protests. And And from my personal research, humanity caused by the PRC and the protestors’ five demands including recorded footage, there As well as protestors being denied Hong Kong government’s negstill stand, even after the with- is evidence of such incidents. medical attention in their hour of ligence, I urge you to read more drawal of the extradition bill. need, there are other cases of un- news from a reliable, indepenI wish to stress, not all the ac- justified police actions; deploying dent source and re-evaluate. tions carried out by the Hong over 1000 rounds of tear gas with1. Cancel riot definition Kong protestors can be justified.

2. Holistic pardon for all pro- They are understandable and can in one night, arresting citizens from the age of 12 – 70s, an estitestors

Opinion

Issue 6 | Tuesday 26th November 2019 | University Express

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Les Vulnerables - Ireland’s Refugee Industry Writes Morgan Hegarty

If Direct Provision is a business, then human beings are its livestock and the Irish government is its financier.

The system usually works like this- the Irish government pays money to private, for-profit companies (to the tune of a total €1.2 billion since 2000). In return, these companies’ staff and furnish centres that receive, house and feed asylum seekers who arrive in Ireland. This system was established through an order by then Minister for Justice John O’Donoghue, thus avoiding the scrutiny of, and mandate from, the Oireachtas. When initially set up, the system was intended to be a temporary one, and it was thought that it would house asylum seekers for the first 6 months of their stay. In the McMahon Report of 2014, however, it was found that 4000 people had been within the system for over 5 years .

Do these companies profit from detaining the most vulnerable in Irish society? This is doubtless, but how much money they earn from this, they are not obliged to report due to their status as private, unlimited companies. What’s more, many of the companies that own Direct Provision centres have made moves to further decrease the transparency they have to face through empty parent companies based in places like the Isle of Man, which demands very little accountability. Mosney Holidays PLC, the company who have received the most state funding of all the suppliers of Direct Provision at €136 million from

2002-2018 is one such company.

The Mosney camp that houses up to 800 asylum seekers is run and owned in part by millionaires Phelim and Elizabeth McCluskey.

One difficulty in talking about Direct Provision is that the conditions vary widely from camp to camp. However, some of the broad points of this system of dehumanising institutionalisation ought to be repeated here.

6,355 people (as of January) now live in this life of constant waiting in which they cannot work, move freely or participate in higher education. Though the government recently changed rules around employment, this was only after the Supreme Court found the ban unconstitutional. This new legislation allowed asylum seekers to request a permit to work, though this is only allowed if one has been in the system for 8 months or more. Permits only last for 6 months at a time. If an employer knows someone may not be granted permission again in 6 months, it is likely they will not hire asylum seekers. Not to mention the fact that many highly skilled and qualified people seek a safe home in Ireland- years of inaction leads to a process of deskilling, and an overall reduction in their ability to function outside of these institutions.

The industry is rife with reports of intimidation, short food supplies and other deficiencies that even prisoners are afforded. Adults are given €38.80 a week to live on and children €29.80. While these payments mark an increase from the past, some people living within the centres say that they often have no choice but to buy

goods from shops run from the centre itself. What’s more, many detainees of this refugee industry need to use much of their weekly allowance on phone credit or cellular data in order to keep in touch with their family and friends as well as keep up to date on their own legal proceedings.

Despite the generous funding of the site run by Mosney, it was reported last year that they had sold out of date food to their habitants. Muslim asylum seekers are unable to celebrate Ramadan due to the strictly controlled (and sometimes changed) dining times in centres that are not equipped with kitchens for residents. More broadly, catering does not accommodate dietary requirements (be they health related or religious/cultural). One centre forces groups of 6-8 people to share one room, with only curtains to give any semblance of privacy.

The State’s ex-Special Rapporteur on Child Protection, Geoffrey Shannon, described the treatment of children in Direct Provision as “second-class citizens”. 44 people died in these institutions from 2007 to 2016, but one-inthree have an unknown cause of death. A high-profile case this summer saw the remains of a transgender woman, who was being held in an all-male camp, buried without informing her friends or family. The toll of Direct Provision is a heavy one- it comes as no surprise that a Royal College of Surgeons study found that the length of time spent within the system was associated with higher rates of psychiatric disorders.

This industry is dehumanising, it is harmful, and it is working exactly as designed. The humil-

iation, stasis, and the arbitrary and unusual control that centre managers have over human beings is meant to discourage other desperate people from seeking refuge in a country that prides itself in its hospitality. What one asylum seeker called ‘state-sponsored poverty’ is exactly what the government wishes upon the defenceless who come to Ireland for shelter in order to make Ireland out to be tough on immigration.

We have made an industry out of the most vulnerable humans in the country, an industry which processes people with a real and urgent need for security in their future into a further marginalised and withdrawn class, who spend years in Kafkaesque limbo. Primrose, an asylum seeker who arrived in Ireland when she was 19 had this to say to an Irish Times reporter on her 8 years of institutionalisation- “some of us, we came here when we were normal, but now we are abnormal”.

We are a country that is perhaps more aware than others of the harm of the institutionalisation of those we see as ‘Others’ and outcasts. The last Magdalene laundry shut its doors in 1996, the last mother and baby home in 1998.

But more than a year after this, Direct Provision was introduced.

After the collective congratulatory self-back-slapping by politicians following the long-overdue legalisation of marriage equality and the repeal of the 8th amendment to the constitution, the glaring hypocrisy of human rights in Ireland reveals itself once moreyou can have unalienable human rights, but only if you are one of us.

BYLINE Road to Gougane Barra: @owenahinchashots

Editorial

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It’s beginning to look a lot like exam season! Ho ho… oh no. After another year where I was too lazy to go out for college Christmas, I am in full Grinch mode at the moment, so don’t talk to me until I’ve had my chai latté. Thankfully, I only have 3 exams this semester so full on cram-time ahoy for me over the next while!

This week’s Byline is excellent as always, I’m unbiased I swear. This week’s Byline photo comes from @ owenahinchashots, an excellent photographer capturing my home, West Cork, so thank you to them for that. Besides that, this week’s Sexpress is excellent as always, with interviews from OnlyFans creators giving their perspective on the platform. Besides that, we are thrilled to have one of the Irish Overwatch players featured in this edition too, giving a great insight into the world of Esports. For those of you who are in the Christmas Spirit, Fiona O’Connell has an especially Christmassy section in Music this week too.

Besides the Express, I’m officially halfway through as Netsoc Chairperson now, which is a big sad for me… but good news is that the UCC Rainbow Six Siege team has made it to the final of the Irish Collegiate Esports winter tournament, where they will play CIT! This adds to semi-final spots for Overwatch, League of Legends, and both CS: GO teams this season. The team was only started in January, so we are delighted at just how far we have come thus far. Congrats to everyone involved again and check out @uccnetsoc on twitter if you want to watch the final live!

I also attended last week’s Euro 2020 qualifier between Ireland and Denmark, and without tooting my horn again, I hate to say I told ye so!

The day before the game, I wrote a piece saying that Mick McCarthy’s tactics made our team look a lot more limited than it in fact was, and I think that that game proved as much. Hopefully Stephen Kenny coming in breathes a breath of fresh air and confidence into the team.

Besides that, I just want to wish everyone the very best of luck in the coming exams and I hope that you all have a lovely holiday period!

Get away, chill with you family and recharge the batteries, you’ve another 6 copies of the Express to stomach before I’m out the gap!

Another edition down and another spiel of my inane ramblings. Cheers again for checking us out!

Contributions and complaints can make their way to; John Cian McGrath byline@uccexpress.ie

Gaeilge

Hugh Ó Raghallaigh Mac Gearailt

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An Lucht Siúil agus Meas Scríobhann Hugh Ó Raghallaigh Mac Gearailt, Eagarthóir Gaeilge

Is grúpa eitneach dúchasach Éireannach iad an Lucht Siúil, a bhfuil an-chuid miteaseolaíocht ag baint leothú. Deireann roinnt foinsí go scaradar leis an daonáireamh socraithe ag am an ghorta, deireann roinnt gur thiomáin Cromall as a dtithe iad, ach de réir taighde déanta ag an gColáiste Ríoga na Máinleá in Éirinn agus Ollscoil Dhún Éideann bhí sé i bhfad Éirinn níos faide siar.

De réir an taighde san tá an ghrúpa tar éis a bheith scairthe leis an bPobal Socraithe go gineadach le os cionn dhá ghlúin déag, nó 360 bliain.

Grúpa an-dhifriúl is ea iad siúd, lena dteanga fhéin agus traidisiúnta stairiúla. Cuirtear an-chuid ainmneacha éagsúla orthú i mBéarla: Pavee’s, Mincéirí (ina dteanga agus úsaid bainte as i mBéarla comh maith) Travellers, Itinerants, an lucht taistil agus ar uile. Ní bhíonn meas ar chuid mhaith den dhaonáireamh socraithe orthú áfach, agus bheadh ionadh ar scata mhór acu fáilt amach go bhfuil teanga acu nach bhfuil an Béarla. Faraor

is minic a chuirtear lipéidí eile lena focail. Táid feicithe ag na héinne, liostaí focal ‘Slang’ ar líne, ach is ró-mhinic a cheaptar gur ‘Slang áitiúl’ í teanga na Lucht Siuil, Da Gammon, Cannt nó Shelta, in áiteanna ina bhfuil líon árd dóibh siúd.

Mar a luaigh mé cheana féin, tá traidisiúnta láidre ag baint leis an ngrúpa leis, bainteach leis an mbás agus leis an dtaisteal, sampla maith dar liom is ea an slí ina láimhseáiltear an bhás. Dóitear gach aon earra phearsanta a bhí ag an nduine agus iad fós beo, agus deirtear go cuidíonn sin le próiséas an bhróin, agus d’fhéadfá san a thuiscint, mar tá ‘closure’ de shaghas i gceist leis.

Traidisiún eile atá láidir ina measc, a bhí láidir i measc an phobail socraithe comh maith ná gan riamh casadh timpeall agus iad tar éis aghaidh a thabhairt d’áit éigint ar thuras. Deirtear go bhfuil mífhortún ag baint le san a dhéanamh, agus is féidir é san a thuiscint s’é ar na rudaí is tábhachtaí do ghrúpa a bhíonn i gcónaí ag taisteal ná a bheith in ann

an ceann scríbe ceart a phiocadh gach aon uair, mar bhraitheann a slite beatha ar an gcinneadh san.

Faraor is minic a bhíonn na meáin agus cuid measartha mhór de ghnáthphobal na hÉireann á gcáineadh na daoine san. Dar liom tá meas mar cheart bunúsach daonna, agus ba chóir do lucht an ghaeilge a aithint gur grúpa fé leith atá ann atá fé chos an rialtais agus ag na comhairlí éagsúla áitiúla timpeall na tíre a dheireann ‘not in my back yard’ dos na daoine san nach bhfuil ach ag iarraidh maireachtáil san sean-slí atá acu. Cinnte is féidir le muintir na Gaoluinne a thuiscint nár mhaith leis na daoine san a traidisiúnta a thréigean.

Tá dul chun cinn déanta ag an bpobal le déanaí, le gníomhaithe ar nós an Dochtúir Sindy Joyce, bean siúil ó chontae Luimnigh, atá ina saineolaí soceolaíochta, a bhí ceapaithe chun a bheith ar an gComhairle Stáit i mbliaina. Bíonn sí ag giolcaireacht fé na dúshláin éagsúla leis a bhíonn

ar an bpobal dul i ngleic. Is sampla iontach í dos na haon taistealaí óga, mar b’í an chéad Mincéir (an focal atá an an bpobal chun tagairt a dhéanamh dóibh fhéin) a bhain PhD amach ariamh. Táim buíoch go pearsanta go raibh a tvuíteanna ann nuair a theastaigh uaim go pearsanta níos mó a fhoghlaim fén bpobal ó dhearcadh pearsanta. ‘s é an méid atá á rá agam ná go mbíonn claonta ag daoine, agus nithe foghlamtha is ea iad. Más rud é go bhfuil claonta mar gheall ar an lucht taisteal foghlamtha agatsa fhéin, bí cinnte iad a scrúdú go géar, agus an rud a mholfainn duit ná iad a thréigean. Ní chóir breithiúnas a dhéanamh ar ghrúpa daoine ar chor ar bith, agus mar Ghaeil tá súil agam go dtuigimid go léir san.

Ní chóir dúinn neamhaird a thabhairt ar an gcás deacair a bhí ag na Gaeil ó thaobh na claonta de, agus ar tábhacht an meas agus an dlúpháirtíocht ach an oiread.

Hub tour A Glance Into The Hub

18 writes Fiona Cremins, Designer

On Thursday 21st of November, the University Express team were invited on a tour of the new UCC Hub. With our trusty Express photographer Caoimhe Leahy we are now able to give our readers a sneak preview of what’s to come! With ample office spaces, a new recording studio for student media, and a new coffee dock which promises to offer jobs to members of the Cope Foundation, a nonprofit organization which supports adults with intellectual disabilities by giving them the opportunity to work in a safe and supportive environment. The building is very open plan, with large windows throughout which provide sweeping views over the entire campus and beyond. It’s truly breathtaking! The Hub also prides itself on accessibility for all, with elevators to help you travel through all four floors and spacious bathrooms. Students will be excited to note that there are plenty kitchen utilities, with microwaves, counters and sinks dotted around the Hub. Our team were notified that the Hub has a planned opening date of January 2020 so it won’t be long until you get to experience this all for yourself!

L-R: Fiona Cremins, Ciaran Dineen, Cian McGrath, Jack Maguire, Sam Curtin, Maeve O’Sullivan

19

Food and Health

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Don’t Ditch the Dairy Writes Katie Kelly, Food and Health Editor

A consumer survey carried out by the National Dairy Council in 2017 found that 35% of Irish consumers were limiting or moderating some element of dairy in their diet. The most affected age group were young Irish women, with 41% doing so. The survey found that the key drivers of avoidance among young women were perceived fat content, allergy and intolerance.

Having carried out my work placement with the National Dairy Council earlier this year, my opinion of dairy may be slightly biased, as I spent the 24 weeks surrounded by messages of the positive impacts that dairy consumption can have on our health and on Ireland’s economy. This transformed my perception of dairy, as I realised I had taken its nutritional benefits for granted.

Many people choose to eliminate dairy from their diet for their own reasons, including choosing to follow a vegan diet or suffering from dairy allergy or intolerance.

However, many may be restricting their intake unnecessarily due to misinformation, without con-

sidering the nutritional implications. With so much conflicting information available surrounding healthy eating, it can be very difficult to know what you should do. However, there are some facts I believe people should consider before considering ditching dairy: Half-a-Dozen Dairy Facts:

1. The Department of Health recommends consuming 3 servings from the “milk, yogurt and cheese” food group each day.

One serving is equal to 200ml of milk, 125g of yogurt or 25g (a matchbox size) of cheese.

2. Milk is a source of calcium, which is needed for strong bones and teeth. Many dairy alternatives (such as almond milk) are not naturally sources of calcium. While some brands may be fortified with calcium, this is in a form which is less bioavailable than the form of calcium that is in dairy, and so is harder for our bodies to use.

3. Dairy alternatives are not nutritionally equivalent to milk. For

example, milk is one of the main food sources of iodine in the Irish diet, which contributes to normal cognitive function, including memory, attention, perception, reasoning and the ability to retain information. Most dairy alternatives which are fortified with other nutrients are not fortified with iodine, so be careful if you have made this swap!

4. Milk is also a source of 6 other nutrients: phosphorus, protein, potassium, vitamin B2, vitamin B12 and vitamin B5, which all carry out important roles in the body.

5. Milk allergies only affects 2-3% of the population and only 4-5% of the population are lactose intolerant. Most people with lactose intolerance can tolerate up to 12g of lactose in a single dose, which is more than is in a glass of milk, and a 25g serving of cheddar cheese only contains 0.03g of lactose. Therefore, many people may be able to consume a lot more dairy than they may think.

6. Dairy may not be as “fattening” as you think. The term “full-fat milk” may be misleading, as it is

actually only 3.5% fat! A 200ml glass of semi-skimmed milk provides less than 5% of the calories and the fat recommended in a standard 2,000kcal diet, along with all of the nutrients mentioned above. Therefore, it certainly has a part to play in a healthy and balanced diet.

Ideas for reaching your 3 dairy a day:

• Start off your day with milk – it could be added to porridge, poured over cereal, or as a milky latte.

• Add a dash of milk to scrambled eggs or omelettes when you’re cooking.

• Add cheese to your sandwich at lunch time… What’s not to love about a good cheese toastie?

• Include yogurt as a snack at any time of the day. Natural yogurt is the best option as it is lower in sugar than flavoured versions. Enjoy it with fresh fruit or berries to help you to reach your recommended 5-7 portions of fruit and vegetables each day.

Editor: Katie Kelly

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The Scrumptious 6... for €6 or less Writes Laura Edgerton, Ballymaloe Graduate

The Sandwich Stall in the English Market offers up a variety of fresh sandwiches and paninis between €5.00-€6.00, with a focus on keeping their offerings local, fresh and affordable. There’s limited counter seating at lunch, and daily soup and salad offerings.

Vegetarians will have plenty of options, although there are plenty of meat filled sandwiches as well.

A best bet is the €5.50 grilled Toonsbridge mozzarella, tomato and pesto sandwich that oozes with locally made melted cheese.

As we start holiday shopping and prepping for exams, fuel yourself up at these local businesses where you can get in and out for €6 or less.

The Bookshelf has two locations in Cork, one at the Elysium and the other on the South Mall. Offering rich artisan coffee and a variety of homemade takeaway items like sausage rolls and scones. If you have time to dine, try the over the top “Pimped Coconut Porridge” for €5.00. As soon as you taste a spoonful, your mouth will be treated to a creamy coconut flavored porridge mingling with crunchy peanut butter, berry compote and fresh bananas and strawberries.

The Liberty Grill always tops lists as one of the best restaurants in Cork but doesn’t mean it’s out of reach for the budget conscious as they offer more than a few brunch options under €6. There’s a pan-fried brioche French toast for €4.50 served with maple syrup, homemade granola for €3.90 and the €5.50 breakfast sundae. Arriving in an elongated dessert glass with a sundae spoon, the breakfast sundae features layers of natural yogurt, nuts, berry compote and homemade granola that makes for a filling, fun and healthy meal.

The Crawford Café is in the back of Crawford Art Gallery, and offers up locally sourced food in a refined but not stuffy setting. Head in for breakfast before exploring the free museum. In the morning you can get anything from a simple scone, to a full Irish and for just €5.50 the creamy O’Brien’s free-range scrambled eggs on buttered Arbutus toast is a great protein packed way to fuel up for a few hours of art appreciation.

Arthur Mayne’s Pharmacy is a favorite for artisan cocktails, but they also serve a budget friendly weekday lunch menu.

Their soup special changes daily. Watch out for the staff favorite, creamy coconut curry sweet potato soup, served with brown bread for €4.50. If you’re looking for something a little more filling, order up the Coronation Chicken sandwich. Served on fresh, crusty white bread, this curry chicken salad comes with mixed greens and mango chutney. Served with a side salad and crisps for €5.90.

The Idaho Café is centrally located and #vocalaboutlocal. They offer any type of coffee to go for just €2.10 when you bring your own reusable mug (€2.60 without). And if you can snag a brownie warm out of the oven, it may be the best use of €3.50 in Cork – a truly exceptional offerings for you chocoholics. At lunch time go for the soup, which is €4.95 if you eat in, or €4.00 take away, like the potato and leek pictured, which comes with white or brown bread.

Film & T.V.

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Reality TV’s Negative Impact on Modern Culture Writes Eoghan Creedon, Film & TV Editor I’m a Celebrity… Get me out of Here returned to our screens once again on the 17th of November. The long running, reality show has been running since 2002. In that time, we have seen countless D-List celebrities, who no one ever really knows who most of them are, slump it in the Australian jungle for 3 weeks, chowing down on various animal genitalia for our viewing pleasure (I mean at this stage its boardering on the lines of pornography).

However, its not the camel penis we tune in for, it’s the fighting. For whatever reason, we as viewers love to watch ‘real’ people arguing on TV. Tell me that I’m wrong.

Every year, people constantly complain that the series is boring because ‘everyone is too nice to each other’. These are the same people that get ‘offended’ if you so much as blink in their direction.

Its not just I’m a Celebrity that has to deal with this. It’s the majority of modern day ‘reality’ shows. I shamefully watched Love Island this summer with my roommates and we could all agree that the show’s most interesting parts are when something ‘dramatic’ happens. i.e. people get into a verbal battle with each other. One look at twitter during these shows’ air times will only back up that point. Viewers love to discuss and analyse a ‘fight’ that went down on whatever show they were watching.

What does this say about us a society though? In the past couple of years, countries across the world have done a significant amount to focus on mental health and promote services in order to help people that may be going through a tough time. While it is extremely admirable and important that society has made positive headway in such a delicate and serious matter, ‘reality’ programmes like Love Island or I’m a Celebrity undo all the hard work done.

These shows take people, most of

who are not used to the spotlight shining on them, and displays them to the masses, to have their every move judged and ridiculed by assholes like us sitting at home, discussing them as if we know them and making pre-conceived judgements about their character, despite more than likely never meeting them in our lifetimes.

Each year, a brand-new batch of contestants are rolled out onto our screens. Some are loved.

Some are hated. But in due time, all are forgotten. I guarantee you that you can’t name the winner of I’m a Celebrity back in 2009.

I guarantee you that you can’t name the first couple to win Love Island. It is dangerous to give these people all this attention, good or bad, and then rip

it away from them one year later as they are quite literally ‘old news’. In 2018, two former contestants of Love Island, Sophie Gradon and Michael Thalassitis, took their own lives. It is not sure as to why, however, the television studios that flush them with this sudden success need to take better precautions and provide better services to these people to deal with their sudden change in lifestyle. Especially for when the fame dies down and they must go back to their former reality.

Is reality television good for society? No. Not if you ask me anyway. While I’m trying to remain unbiassed, I can’t help but feel that it brings out the worst in all who watch it. Imagine if we were being ridiculed on a daily basis by

millions of people, just by how a tv show (which is heavily edited mind you) portrays us. For the most part, it is completely out of the contestants’ control as to how the masses will react to them.

Major changes need to be made.

Television networks need to provide better services for contestants of their shows to cope with the sudden gain and gradual loss of fame. We as viewers, and more importantly members of society, need to stop taking such enjoyment in watching and discussing peoples’ ‘fights’ and ‘drama’ that is presented on screen to us. We can say its fake, but we can’t be certain when we say that.

What may come across as fake to us, could be the pain staking truth for the person on screen.

Editor: Eoghan Creedon

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Disney Can’t Hack The Pressure Writes Eoghan Creedon, Film & TV Editor

Disney launched their highly anticipated streaming service, Disney+ very recently. Disney announced that the service accumulated over 10 million subscriptions on launch day alone.

That figure is staggering by any standard, however, it is more impressive when you learn that Disney were forecasting to have between 10 and 18 million subscribers in its first year.

While the majority of things ran smoothly for Disney+ throughout its opening day, the service did encounter some significant issues. BBC report that an estimated 4,000 Disney+ accounts were hacked during launch day.

Now, 4,000 accounts out of 10 million is a very small percentage. 0.04% to be exact. However, that’s not the point. The point is that Disney, one of the largest and wealthiest organisations in the world, did not take all necessary precautions to ensure the safety of their users’ Disney+ accounts.

Its not like they can’t afford the best security out there. Disney are projected to earn a net profit of over $69 billion dollars for 2019.

The select few subscribers who

were unfortunate enough to be in the 0.04% that had their accounts hacked, noted that their email addresses and passwords had been changed. These subscribers complained numerous times to Disney over various forms of social media, however, Disney took the coward’s way out and did not respond to their queries.

The hacked accounts reportedly appeared on the dark web later on during launch day, being sold off for a measly $3. It is still unknown as to why these accounts were hacked, considering that a subscription is $7 in the US. These hackers clearly would not make good accountants. It is assumed that the buyers of these hacked accounts are from regions where Disney+ is not yet available. For the sake of $4 and a couple of extra weeks, you would think that the buyers could wait.

Disney is staggering the release dates of Disney+ for various major regions. It launched in the US and Canada on November 12th. It launched in Australia and New Zealand on November 19th. It is not set to release in the UK and Ireland and other

major European countries until March 31st, 2020. The reasoning behind the staggered release dates is not clear. However, if the service launched in every country in roughly the same time period, it is safe to assume that subscribers’ accounts would not be hacked.

The hackers and buyers are probably just some sad Marvel or Star Wars fans, who couldn’t wait a couple of weeks to watch The Mandalorian. I like Star Wars as much as the next person, but I am more than willing to wait just a couple of months to watch it.

The actions of these pathetic hackers have caused people to be locked out of their personal email accounts, most of which probably contain very important, personal information. And Disney, at the time of writing, are doing nothing about it. This is a very poor move, or lack of, from Disney, to not respond to these unfortunate subscribers. It wouldn’t take them more than a couple of minutes to simply respond to the subscriber queries, saying something as simple as “We’re working on trying to fix the problem”. As stated pre-

viously, it’s not as if they can’t afford to implement the best security programmes. If the BBC can find the hacked accounts on the dark web, there is no way in hell that Disney didn’t know about it before the story leaked.

We all already know that Disney are just another money hungry, ruthless corporation.

Don’t be fooled by the family friendly, heart-warming facade they put on. Behind the scenes are a bunch of success craving, money hungry leaches that will suck every penny out of you if you gave them the chance. And this proves it. Disney did not care enough about the 4,000 subscribers to fix the problem, or better yet, simply respond to them upon their initial enquiry.

Once Disney got the money from their subscriptions, that was that. That’s where the relationship began and ended between Disney and the subscribers, as far as Disney were concerned.

Disney should not be let off the hook for this. Not until the hacked accounts are retrieved and the subscribers’ email accounts are returned to them.

Music

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Christmas Nostalgia - An Alternative Soundtrack That Makes It Feel Like Christmas Without Making You Want to Gauge Your Eyes Out Writes Fiona O’ Connell, Music Editor

There are only so many times one can hear the overly cheery, Christmas-centric heartbreak tune ‘Last Christmas’ blasting through crackling speakers whilst just trying to do your grocery shop in peace. Now I’m a huge Christmas fanatic (I’m that guy), but even I know when to say enough is enough. Now that’s not to say we shouldn’t play Christmas music.

In small doses the overly cheesy, brilliantly structured Jazz Christmas classics are great - even some of the newer, poppier tunes have their merit. There is however, a strong case to be made for a wide array of, not necessarily Christmas music, but music that can make it feel like Christmas, conjuring up the same warm feelings without the sickly sweet sleigh bells.

Here you will find an attempt to soundtrack an alternative type of Christmas for your enjoyment!

There’s something about folk music that has always resonated quite beautifully around Winter time. Why exactly that is I’m not entirely sure but one thing is certain - these bearded hipsters make a damn good tune to soundtrack your morning crunch through the snow. Some highlights include: White Winter Hymnal -

Fleet Foxes Not exactly a Christmas tune but certainly a Winter song. With mentions of scarves and snow as well as the faithful use of a tambourine throughout the entire piece, this song is a perfect accompaniment for your Winter walks.

Berlin - Bear’s Den Along the same lines in terms of atmospheric creation, this song feels like a warm hug. With the use of minimal plucked guitar patterns, the English folk threepiece conjure up a nostalgia for the cold weather, big coats, and a snow-covered Berlin. The opening to this track encapsulates the entire mood of the song; ‘The cold wind made your cheeks blow, shivering away under your coat.

Berlin was all covered in snow, all I could offer was a hand to hold’.

Moving into the realm of instrumental works, there are many Winter-alluding pieces to choose from, as well as more stripped back arrangements of well-known Christmas tunes that help to set the mood this holiday season.

‘Snowfall’ - Idealism For a whole load of crackly, lowfi Christmas goodness. Set to the backdrop of deliciously jazzy

piano chords, this piece is reminiscent of the afore-mentioned classic Christmas jazz standards in its simple piano melody, whilst adding a syncopated electronic drum beat to keep it sounding hip and fresh, and all that.

‘The First Noel (Jazz Version) - The Evergreen Trio A gorgeously simple rendition of this classic provides the perfect soothing background music to any cosy Winter evening.

With slightly altered melody lines making the piece both jazzier and harder to instantly recognise, this piece oozes with nostalgia and the warmth that only such smooth playing of such a lovely tune could conjure up.

Sticking with the more jazzier realm of Winter-related pieces, I have included an entire section for more jazz-influenced pieces as there is something inexplicably Christmassy about the use of jazz chord progressions and chord voicings.

‘I Fall in Love Too Easily (Vocal Version)’ Chet Baker Now I know this isn’t a Christmas song. But there is something about the twinkly piano com-

bined with smooth jazz vocals that screams Christmas to me!

It’s laidback, it’s gorgeous, it’s effortlessly nostalgic - in keeping with all of my Winter/Christmas-Vibe-Evoking playlist needs!

‘Baby, It’s Cold Outside’ Larry Lovestein & Ariana Grande It cannot be denied that Grande is no stranger to a Christmas tune.

This song is one of her lesser known attempts but arguably her best. Teaming up with her partner at the time, Mac Miller (under his alter-ego Larry Lovestein), the pair deliver a soft and stripped back version of the classic. The intro to this song is what really sold this rendition to me. There is something about those soft, muted and jazz-influenced piano chords that evoke such a warm and entirely Christmassy feeling.

Finally, a very special mention must go to one of the loveliest Christmas-influenced playlists I came across on Spotify entitled ‘A Harry Potter Christmas’ which includes excerpts of beautiful orchestral scores which accompanied scenes of a snow-covered Hogwarts so beautifully. Happy listening!

Editor: Fiona O’ Connell

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Why You Should Give the Gift of Music This Christmas Writes Fiona O’ Connell, Music Editor

It is a point that has been made many times over and will probably continue to be made by every middle-aged person in the country in regards to where we are with our music consumption in the present day; “Sure noooobody’s buying music anymore, not with that Spotify craic or whatever it is”. And to an extent your uncle Mick is bang on. The way we consume music has changed drastically in the last ten years - even in the last five years. It’s not just the idea of streaming platforms either, it’s the way we consume albums; we tend to not really digest them. We hear the singles, pick our favourites, add them to our playlists, and ditch the rest of it.

In times past you wouldn’t even be able to skip a track, let alone add your favourite track to your own personally curated playlist.

Technological advancements have allowed for our musical horizons to be opened and expanded hugely and in an entirely revolutionary way. However, the argument must be made on behalf of musicians all over the world - why you really should buy their music this Christmas, whether as a little present from yourself to yourself, or for any of your loved ones.

A common misperception about musicians is the idea that they’re all minted; absolutely rolling in it off of all of those sweet airplay and Spotify royalties. Well the harsh reality is Spotify streams really don’t equate to the kind of money professional musicians need to keep themselves afloat. Now I’m not talking about the likes of Ariana Grande and the royalties she sees from her streams on the platform - I get the feeling she’s doing just fine (queue chants of ‘I want it, I got it!’). For many of our favourite artists as well as more local musicians however, the money they receive from streaming platforms such as Spotify is nowhere near enough to cover the costs of recording studios, tour budgets, as well as equipment and sound

gear. Whilst the power of Spotify as well as the probability of its longevity in terms of practicality and popularity cannot be denied, that is not to say that there is still a certain beauty in actually purchasing music. There is something quite lovely about physically holding a collection of music of one of your favourite artists, meticulously crafted and curated over a series of months or in some cases, years.

Something that I think is worth noting in the argument about modern music consumption is the idea that an algorithm is selecting and playlisting all of our weekly favourites. While there is nothing necessarily wrong with that, there is the same feeling of unease that comes with the realisation of why all of the ads on instagram are from the exact same site you just bought from. Why is this playlisting machine of a sort collecting our favourite genres, curating playlists full of what we already love, and recommend-

ing music collections based on the mood they think we’re likely to be in? This attempt to tap into our emotional needs is something that I don’t think is often considered when we tap into the Spotify app. A writer named Liz Pelly has written a really insightful article on this topic entitled ‘Big Mood Machine’, which explores the idea of the streaming platform’s attempt to tap into our deepest emotions in an attempt to literally soundtrack our lives. The whole concept is a little off-putting but entirely fascinating so I would definitely recommend giving her piece a read, especially if you need a push to put the phone down and give a CD a spin this Christmas.

It’s worth noting that it doesn’t just have to be physical copies of albums that make a difference to musician’s pay cheques. If you prefer to listen to your music on your computer, out of a speaker, or even through your headphones on your smartphone, purchasing

your music on Tidal or iTunes is just as viable a way to enjoy your favourite music whilst supporting the wonderful musicians behind it. In saying that, some artists would argue that there is still little money to be made in the selling of their actual music. It’s easy to see how in this day and age, musicians would view the selling of tour tickets and merchandise as a more viable way of making a living. With the growing emphasis on branding, musicians have begun to produce more quirky and uniquely crafted items of clothing to entice their fans to support them and their product (which goes beyond the realm of just music - see: Billie Eilish’s luminous beanies and baggy basketball shorts). So if you can at all, buy those concert tickets for you and your Mam, buy that Billie Eilish beanie for your little sister, and grab a record for your Dad’s dusty vinyl player; I’m sure he’d be only glad to give it a whirl again.

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Photos

Issue 6 | Tuesday 26th November 2019 | University Express

Arts-Music students practicing for the Indonesian Ambassador’s visit

by Eve Harrington, University Express Photographer

Issue 6 | Tuesday 26th November 2019 | University Express

Photos

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Top & Bottom: Field trip to Beara with the religion class Left: Photo soc event.

Light photography

by Caoimhe Leahy University Express Photographer

SEXPRESS

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Conversations with OnlyFans Creators Writes Caoimhe Battault, Sexpress Editor

Sex work has always been prevalent but perhaps not so easily accessible and worker driven as it is at the moment. People, particularly women, want agency over their own bodies and the ability to make money in a safe, independent way. Enter OnlyFans, a site which allows users to decide a price for their own NSFW (not suitable for work) pictures and videos, depending on what the user is willing to sell and what the consumer wants. Why has this platform taken off and become so popular, particularly with young people in Ireland today?

“I’m a student so the extra money helps since I don’t have work anywhere else,” says Sophie*, someone who has been a creator on the platform since August “…best part is its easy money…” Other creators responded the same way about why they started to sell nudes on OnlyFans “I mainly started it because I’m unemployed and badly need the extra cash,” says Laura (culchieaphrodite) “However, I’ve always been interested in getting into some sort of sex work so this is the perfect gateway into the area.” Another user, Grace (gveronxca) also says she started it to make extra money and that it has been successful so far: “As long as

you’re willing to put in the work and commit to it, it can be a really good source of extra income.”

A massive plus of this form of sex work, which has not been as present in other forms, is the autonomy over price range. All the women spoken to charged different monthly subscription fees: “I charge €10 for a monthly subscription, but I do discount subscriptions every now and again!” says Grace, “I can do personalised requests for subscribers that have been active for a reasonable amount of time so that I’m comfortable with doing so…subscribers can choose whether or not they tip.”

However, Sophie discussed how you must be constantly active in order to keep your subscribers “I was once at 36 subscribers, but it went down to 9 once I wasn’t posting.” Seeing as Sophie took this break for mental health reasons, it seems it may be hard to sustain income if your personal life takes the lead, “It can be hard when you’re struggling mentally because the last thing you want to do is take pictures of yourself so at the moment when I do take pics I try to take a lot so I can use them when I’m not feeling great to try and keep my users active.”

Sarah, someone who is not a creator or subscriber to OnlyFans says “I think OnlyFans is a product of gen z and millennials being paid the bare minimum… but also more power to them.” The risk of losing out on subscribers when a creator may need a well-deserved break could lead to seriously mental health altercations and cause creators to do things, they are no longer comfortable with. “You need thick skin,” continues Sophie, “…almost everyone is highly forward because its anonymous and they truly can say anything.”

While overall the people spoken to enjoy the platform and enjoy creating content, some negatives do arise, as with almost all forms of making money. “As I originally come from a rural area, it would definitely be the talk of the town [if] people found out… so I keep it quiet when I am at home” Laura says, pointing out the still prevalent judgement Ireland holds against sex workers. However, she continues “If people were to somehow find out I don’t think it would negatively effect me.” Sophie also discusses her want for anonymity “I don’t think my mother would like knowing so I tend to keep it to myself.” But as previously stated, the experience is hugely

positive, with all three interviewees happily recommending it.

An important aspect of OnlyFans is the personalisation, and this means some of the time people you know in your everyday life become subscribers. “I suppose the only weird part for me is when you get an unexpected subscription and you’re like “oh…” says Grace, but this doesn’t affect her over all experience with the site; “People in my everyday life just sort of know! It hasn’t changed my relationship with anyone in my life so far.” She continues about if this affects her; “A small bit, but not negatively.

Sure, there’s the “oh I didn’t know you thought of me that way” thought for a second but nah.”

Sophie also discusses the effects of people in your life subscribing; “Some people do get off on telling you who they are to you,” she says, “one guy told me who he was and it turned out it was a guy who I had matched with on tinder a fair few years previous who I cut off contact with because I found him odd, I didn’t mind though because he sent me over €100 to see videos of me.” Not everyone enjoys the rush of being known by the content creator however, “I’ve heard of cases though of

Editor: Caoimhe battault people sending money [to creators] on PayPal which tends to expose the person because of their email… which can be funny because these people don’t want to be known, but their privacy is still safe,” says Sophie, “These people have access to our pics and can save them if they like, I’m sure it would be very easy to expose someone’s account if they felt you had done them wrong.”

The question of relationships is something a lot of people consider when contemplating sex work; how could this endeavour effect romantic relationships? When asked does the work effect romantic or sexual partners in your life, Laura said, “I wouldn’t want to be with someone against me having an OnlyFans anyway” and Grace simply replied “nope!” But Sophie had a bit more to discuss, bringing up the topic of manipula-

tion from people who find out she is a content creator “Some people get off on the idea [of having sex with you] since OnlyFans creators come off as confident…” she says, “I’ve had a fair few guys use it as an excuse to just ask for nudes for free or ask to see if it’s worth it, just to see me naked” Sophie finds this funny, which is unsurprising as men have a notorious history of trying to take advantage for smart women who know better.

She is not a product for which you can try free samples. She also said she was currently single and not looking for a relationship “…so I’m not sure if it would affect the people I might be with in the future, if that was the case I would get rid of the account, it’s basically just for fun and extra cash.”

Overall the experience seems overwhelmingly positive. All three women enjoy creating content and having autono

my over their bodies. As stated, all three recommend cre ating an OnlyFans account, leaving different pieces of advice.

“I’d recommend it to any adult,” says Sophie, “It doesn’t work out for everyone but if you’re interested and think its for you then I think its no harm.” Grace says, “I would [recommend it] …It can be a really good source of extra income and you can gain a lot of confidence from it too,” and Laura agrees “yes, I would absolutely recommend it! It’s very handy if you need the extra cash, it definitely helps boost your confidence and its fun too.” It’s clear these women love creating this content and what comes with selling it. OnlyFans, from this group of women’s perspectives, definitely seems to be making the world of sex work safer and more enjoyable for the creator!

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Can Sex be Sustainable?

Writes Caoimhe Battault, Sexpress Editor

Most of us are currently concerned by the state of the treatment of the planet, but also most of us want to have sex. There can be a lot of waste in sex: condoms, condom wrappers, lube bottles, plastic toys… the list goes on.

Here is a list of some eco-friendly sex bits so you can do bits, and still be eco-queens (and kings and all in-between): The Gaia Eco: A biodegradable vibrator, made from non-porous starch-based bioplastic, this little guy will make you cum and not outlive you in a landfill for decades! Win! Retailing at around €14 on UrbanOutfitters.com (eco-sex is trendy now) its orgasmically cheap.

Eihorn Condoms: From German designers these condoms are cruelty free, vegan, promise fair working conditions from start to finish of production and come in a cute little recyclable package!

SEXY SUSTAINABILTY! YES YES YES! Lube: organic, water-based lubes? Yes yes yes please! Also, they claim to be ultra-moisturising which is… interesting.

Gaming

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“Underdogs” Team Ireland & the Overwatch World Cup Writes Jack Coleman, Gaming Editor There’s nothing that quite encapsulates community spirit like a country rallying behind their national sports teams. We witness it all the time when Ireland play rugby or football. During an Irish match, the sounds of exultation (or despair) can be heard thundering out of every pub and household. Like most sporting concepts (franchising, drafts, seeding), the idea of national teams is starting to find a foothold in the esports industry.

Many esports already have ecosystems where their competitive scene is divided into regions which does evoke a certain kind of nationalism in its viewers, a prime example being the famous Europe versus North America rivalry that exists in the “League of Legends” scene. However, this doesn’t quite compare to the feeling of watching a full team of your countrymen compete for national glory. League of Legends fans got to experience a taste of what an international competition would be like during the 2018 Asian Games.

At the event, League of Legends was selected for a trial run in order to see if esports could be introduced permanently to the competition. Though many of the teams competing weren’t world-class, the predictable final matchup of China against South Korea was hyped by many. China went on to win gold, much to the chagrin of their Korean rivals.

Recently, the idea of a full-blown world cup has been floated by the higher-ups at Riot’s esports division. It’s expected that progress will be made towards creating this competition in the coming years.

However, another popular game has already instituted an international world cup. Activision-Blizzard’s “Overwatch” which released in 2016 has held a World Cup every year since its release.

The heavy-hitters of the competition have remained mostly consistent over the years, large countries with extensive esports

to Overwatch World Cup teams, the Wolfhounds would have to fund their own trip to Anaheim for Blizzcon. This resulted in an inspiring outpouring of support from the Irish Overwatch community as individuals purchased jerseys and made donations to fund the team’s expenses. With a couple of months to spare, Team Ireland successfully met their financial goals and were set to compete at Blizzcon. Controversially, teams were not allowed to wear their custom-made jerseys at the event and were instead forced to wear generic Coca-Cola branded jerseys.

scenes tend to reign supreme.

South Korea, China and the United States generally do well for these reasons. Ireland, on the other hand, doesn’t have the same advantages or infrastructure.

Compared to the aforementioned countries, and even with other larger European countries, Ireland has quite a small population. In addition to this, esports is only beginning to blossom on the Emerald Isle which limits the potential talent pool further. Our fair country has produced few esports players of note, with the most successful likely being “Call of Duty” player Jordan “Jurd” Crowley who is set to compete in the first season of the newly-formed Call of Duty League as a member of the London Royal Ravens. Justin “MiracU” McNally (PUBG), Josh “lolb0om” Juliano (Fortnite) and Cormac “doolsta” Dooley (Fifa) are some other notable Irish names who are successful in their respective scenes.

In Overwatch, however, Ireland has yet to produce a player who has played at the highest level. Going into the first Overwatch World Cup, “Team

Ireland” was an underdog in every sense of the word. The team performed admirably, defeating South Africa and taking a game off Poland. While they didn’t perform well enough to advance to the main stage at Blizzcon, it seemed like Ireland might just have some future stars after all.

However, due to stringent qualification requirements in place during subsequent years, Ireland was not represented during the 2017 and 2018 World Cups.

2019 was a new year for Irish Overwatch, however. The national community banded together and coordinated their efforts to field the best possible team Ireland had to offer. With a sweet jersey and a tasteful brand (the Celtic Wolfhounds), Team Ireland was poised to make their country proud at Blizzcon 2019.

The team consisted of Mark “Scally202” Scally, Liam “Liam” O’Donnell, Adam “PureIrish” Healy, Josh “M3wts” Moore, Aaron “FlexG” Kay and Adam “Buckle” Treharne, with head coach Brian “Scrivzy” Scriven.

As Activision-Blizzard neglected to provide financial support

Before the tournament, there was a sense of optimism among the Irish community. The Wolfhounds had emphatically beaten the Greek Trojan Horse and were competitive against Team Iceland in pre-tournament scrimmages.

However, the World Cup preliminaries had a ruthless format, one loss and you were eliminated from the competition entirely. When the brackets were drawn, Ireland was set to face off against a familiar face in Team Iceland. Should they win this game, the daunting task of competing against the United Kingdom (who had five pro players on their roster) arose.

Facing Iceland was made even more difficult by the fact that the two teams were regular scrim partners, so Ireland’s unorthodox strategies wouldn’t work against the Icemen. This proved partially to be their downfall, as Iceland went on to blow out the Wolfhounds 3-0. Despite the scoreline, Ireland had some great moments and looked very competitive for a team with only amateur players. Going forward, Ireland’s promising talents are sure to improve and new talent will inevitably be discovered. It’s not outlandish to suggest that Ireland will produce a professional Overwatch player in the coming years.

Editor: Jack coleman

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“Dive-Rein” Interview with Liam O’Donnell Writes Jack Coleman, Gaming Editor While Team Ireland ultimately exited the World Cup after just one best-of-five series, the experience was certainly valuable for the players and staff of the Celtic Wolfhounds. One such player is eighteen-year-old Liam O’Donnell from Kildare who is one of the country’s most promising talents. Before his stint with Team Ireland, Liam had played extensively in amateur leagues. Once the national team announced they would be holding open tryouts, Liam jumped at the opportunity. When asked to describe his experience with Team Ireland, the Kildare man was nothing but positive. “My experience with Team Ireland was amazing. It started out rough with the tryouts, as most open tryouts do, but once the team was selected and we were scrimming consistently it was really good”.

Despite being the youngest member of the team, Liam was designated as the “in-game leader” for the team. This meant that it generally fell to him to quickly formulate a strategy amidst the ever-changing chaos of an Overwatch game. Though many would consider this to be a daunting task, Liam took it in stride. “Naturally, as the main tank, you are always, at least somewhat, the leader of the team as you are the centre. For most of my previous teams, I have been that kind of leader. I didn’t find it daunting at all actually, whether it had been previous Overwatch teams or previous soccer teams, I’ve always been a leader”.

Losing in the first round after so much preparation and effort must’ve been disappointing, especially considering Iceland was a team that Ireland had previously beaten in practice. When asked what he thought of the match, and if the Wolfhounds were simply outmatched on the day, Liam offered an explanation for the loss. “I definitely don’t think we were “outmatched” as we have always gone toe to toe with Ice-

land in scrims. I think the main issue was that they were our scrim partners and knew our “off-meta” strategies. Because of this, they had an answer for them but I do think if, on the day, we played to what we were capable of we could have beaten them.”

The combination of a slight underperformance and an unlucky draw proved to be Ireland’s downfall. Despite the loss, this World Cup has been instrumental in creating community infrastructure for future trips to the event.

much so that back in April prominent Korean coach Yoon “Runaway” Dae-hoon commented on Liam’s play, calling him the next Bumper. For those unaware, Park “Bumper” Sang-beom is one of the best main tank players in the Overwatch League. Liam was honoured to be praised by such a famous coach in the Korean Overwatch scene: “I honestly didn’t believe it at first when I saw the screenshots. It was such an amazing feeling to get recognition from such a big name like that”.

As mentioned earlier, Liam is one of the most promising young Irish talents in the scene right now. So

Recognition like that and an unforgettable experience like travelling to Blizzcon to compete in an

international tournament would inspire anyone. Predictably, Liam is excited at the prospect of pursuing a career in esports. “The experience of travelling to Blizzcon and playing there has definitely inspired me to pursue this career path. Playing in competitions like that with so much adrenaline flowing and so much on the line is an unbelievable experience that I definitely want to experience again”. He went on to confirm that the next step in his career is finding an Academy or Contenders team to compete at the next level. Keep your eyes out for Liam in the coming months, we may have a future star on our hands.

Fashion

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It’s What Underneath That Counts Writes Katie Burke, Fashion Editor

Doesn’t it seem like underwear and shapewear are having a moment? In the past two years it seems that an increasing amount of new interpretations of these items are coming onto the market and changing the game for the better. From the sexy lingerie worn by 1950s pin-ups, to Mark Wahlberg’s Calvin Klein campaign, to the infamous Bridget Jones knickers, underwear has become synonymous with expressing how we are feeling.

However, given that these items are primarily only seen by their wearers on a day to day business, why are certain underwear and shapewear brands having such a moment with consumers?

First, we need to look at what can entice people to buy nice underwear for themselves, apart from the obvious reasons why people choose to wear underwear. According to FashionPsychology. com, a website set up by Shakaila Forbes Bell (BSc., MA in Psychology for Fashion Professionals), lingerie began to transition into something to become attractive in the late nineteenth century. Since then it has evolved into a successful industry, from the eye-catching ‘Hello Boys’ Wonderbra ad starring model Eva Herzigová, the iconic early noughties Victoria Secret Shows, and the evolution of shapewear in the form of Spanx.

But as the industry evolves over time, we are constantly questioning who lingerie and shapewear is really for? Is it for our own self confidence or is it for the benefit of others? For some, they can simply get a thrill from just wearing matching underwear. For others it’s to benefit someone else.

According to FashionPsychology. com, in an article written by Raelynne Larson, we see underwear as a way for women to leave their comfort zone and take on a new sense of confidence or persona.

The lingerie and shapewear industries seem to have taken a turn in the past year or so and are attempting to reflect an accurate depiction of today’s society. The calling card of these up and com-

when they don’t see themselves in their campaigns. With their recent shows frequently sending the stereotypical tall, slim, blonde model down the catwalk, viewers are tired of seeing the same thing. They want to be excited by seeing all shapes and skin tones proving that sexiness does not simply come with being skinny, but with confidence in yourself.

With their broadcasts on network television losing millions of viewers per annum, it is unsurprising that other brands which are perceived to be more inclusive are gaining more traction in their place. In a profile on Kim Kardashian West in The Wall Street Journal by Christine Brinkley, it was reported that Victoria Secret’s market share had shrunken to 24% in 2018, in comparison to the 31.7% it commanded in 2013.

F&F ing brands are to instil a sense of confidence in their customers to be their best selves, whatever that may mean to the individual wearer, regardless of size, skin tone, or even if you’re on your period. There are new brands such as Savage x Fenty, SKIMS, Stripe and Stare, and ModiBodi,

to name but a few. With a lack of representation being called out in many industries, it was only a matter of time before the discussion was brought to the world of lingerie and shapewear. Consumers are no longer depending solely on brands such as Victoria Secret to make them feel beautiful

So, what other brands are making their mark and grabbing the attention of consumers? First up there’s the now famous Savage X Fenty by Rihanna. Bursting onto the scene in 2018, Savage X Fenty has a distinct laissez-faire attitude with Rihanna quoted in a Vogue article as saying “I want to make people look and feel good, and have fun playing around with different styles”. From the basic T-Shirt bra to the more risqué collections, the brand has styles for an extensive range of sizes, thus showing that feeling confident in nice lingerie doesn’t stop at a certain size, but that it is how the person themselves carry it with confidence. As Rihanna is quoted as saying in the same Vogue article online, “There are really no rules with lingerie,” she explains.

“Cute and edgy can live in the same collection. The line dares you to try something new while completely remaining authentic to yourself”. The first show for the label went viral on social media when it hosted a range of models from the slim Bella Hadid, to the very pregnant Slick Woods; thus, reinforcing the brands message that anyone can feel like a goddess in good lingerie.

Another celebrity’s take on this

Editor: Katie Burke industry is SKIMS by Kim Kardashian West. In comparison to the well-known Spanx, Kardashian’s range features a more extensive colour range, a positive step in reminding society that nude comes in a variety of colours. It also ranges in size from XXS to XXXXL, and the website shows models from a US size 2 to 18, as Kardashian said that women want to see clothes in their own size. While Rihanna’s range encourages customers to be confident in letting it ‘all hang out’ so to speak, Kardashian’s brand offers a different kind of confidence. If you’re having an off day and just want to feel a bit more sucked in, then feel free to wear whatever gets you there, regardless of your size or skin colour.

Of course, there are other underwear brands making their

mark without a celebrity founder. Stripe and Stare is a brand set up by two women to produce comfortable, aesthetically pleasing and environmentally friendly underwear. Using Lenzing MicroModal, sourced from Beechwood trees, this naturally soft fibre goes into creating soft and comfortable fabric for their products.

Using 95% less water in production than cotton, this environmentally friendly brand produces high quality products, that are both comfortable and aesthetically pleasing for their customers, and also tap into the huge drive from customers for more sustainable clothing options.

ModiBodi is another brand aiming to be more sustainable but also empower women while on their period, after questioning why women’s underwear hasn’t

evolved given all the recent advances in technology. Following extensive research the brand “uses high quality, tech-savvy fabrics (like Bamboo, Merino Perform Wool and Microfibre) and the latest in breathable, antimicrobial fibres antimicrobial fibres with [their] patented Modifier Technology™ – a super slim (only 3mm) stain resistant lining for modern periods and leaks, and Modifier Air Technology™ – a moisture-wicking, odour-fighting lining for getting sweaty”. I discovered this brand when I spotted some influencers and bloggers posting about it, showing that their message to make the ‘unmentionable’ more mentionable is gradually becoming more mainstream.

None of these brands are claiming to have the ultimate answer to

Simply Be

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inner confidence, but what they all do is they give their customers options to decide what confidence means to them. If you want to feel confidence by showing off your body in gorgeous underwear, then go for something like Savage X Fenty. If sucking in your wobbly bits means confidence to you, then by all means go for something like SKIMS. If you want to feel confident on your period or do your bit for the environment, then go for brands like Stripe and Stare or ModiBodi. Confidence means different things do different people, and these new brands are showing the old stalwarts of the industry that underwear can, and should be, for everyone regardless of body shape, skin colour or time of the month. After all, it’s what’s underneath that counts.

Arts & Literature

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Swan Lake Performed by Cork City Ballet Produces a Riveting Display in Cork Opera House Writes Fiona Keeley, Arts & Literature Editor Our dark winter evenings are finally upon us and as I walked through a moonlit Cork City my breath appeared as a mist in front of my face, like the haze on the River Lee on a frosty morning.

I walked quickly to keep myself warm and crossed Emmet Place to enter my destination for the evening, Cork Opera House. I have fond memories of coming here as a child and now as a student I make a habit of going there at least once a season to watch a show. That night, I was going to see Swan Lake, performed by Cork City Ballet. It is a story that I have been told repeatedly since I was a young child, through various mediums but when I saw the ballet production of it for the first time it was enough to entice me to return to the theatre for more viewings in later years.

Swan Lake first premiered at the Bolshoi Theatre in 1877, showing the extended legacy of this production over the years. Featuring the instantly recognisable music of Pyotr Tchaikovsky, Swan Lake tells the timeless love story of a girl who is trapped in the body of a swan by day but by night transforms into her human form. She must find a way to break this spell or spend an eternity under the control of the story’s antagonist, Rothbart. In Cork City Ballet’s production, Russian ballet star Ekaterina Bortyakova danced the roles of Odette and Odile.

She shared the lead role with her partner Akzhol Mussakhanov who danced the role of Prince Siegfried. Yury Demakov, who was trained at the Bolshoi Ballet Academy in Moscow worked behind the scenes and provided the choreography that was used during the production. In a very real way, it allowed this production to grasp a sense of the past and connect with the Bolshoi Theatre where the story of Swan Lake began many years ago. Of the many retellings of this story that I have seen through the years this version threw in a curveball

as it progressed through the acts. I wept with the protagonist Odette in her moments of sadness and gasped with dread when Odile tried to steal Prince Siegfried away from her. Rothbart poised himself as the villain onstage and the production succeeded in sending a chill running down my spine at the beginning each of his scenes because of the perfection of the lighting and music with the content of his character.

While the story itself was gripping, I couldn’t help but marvel at the skill involved in the entire production as the characters danced across the stage throughout the evening. Performing professional standard choreography but making it look easy is the mark of a good dancer and that could be seen within every dancer that night. The Dance of the Cygnets made its appearance accompanied by its famous piece of music that many people would recognise. One of the highlights of the performance for the audience however, was Odile when she performed her thirty-two fouettés in the centre of the stage. The audience’s appreciation of Odile’s skill was evident from the applause that rang out throughout the auditorium after her final fouetté.

that I was not expecting. Artistic Director Alan Foley had commented to Cork Opera House, “unlike the unalloyed tragedy most people cherish, this version ends with a fairy-tale twist.”

When I left the theatre and reflected on the entire experience and admired the way the company had used their creative licence to perform Swan Lake in the way they thought was appropriate.

The positive experience showed me that a story that the public has

been told many times over can be recounted in new ways one-hundred and forty years later.

Throughout the show it was clear that the emotion within the performance was central to the audience’s experience of the show.

That emotion was apparent from the very beginning of the ballet in the sadness of Odette and the terror of Rothbart. While utterly beautiful to watch, this ballet took me on a roller-coaster of emotions

The entire experience of that evening was enough to take my breath away. When a stage production had the power to give me a cold rush of goosepimples or a warm glow of security that is when I knew I was watching something spectacular. As the cast took their final bows and the curtains closed across the stage for the last time the excited chatter about what we had just witnessed on stage started to bubble up amongst the crowd. As I walked back out onto Cork’s moonlit streets, I mulled over what I had seen onstage. It brought together magic, romance, jealousy and sadness combined with incredible music and dance which made this night at the opera a night well spent.

Editor: Fiona Keeley

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Ó’Bhéal Winter Warmers Festival Shows the Impact of the Arts Writes Fiona Keeley, Arts & Literature Editor Cork celebrated its 7th Winter Warmers Festival on the weekend of November 22nd, bringing together spoken word artists, poets and filmmakers to show patrons what literature can mean in the modern era. This festival was a three-day event hosted in venues such as the Kino, The Hayloft Bar and Civic Trust House. Máire Ní Chéileachair opened the festival on Friday November 22nd to what was sure to be a memorable weekend for literature in Cork.

The weekend began with workshops hosted on Friday afternoon to look at poetry in a new way. The Meeting of Poetry and Film workshop was hosted in Civic Trust House, Pope’s Quay and looked at what can be produced when poets and filmmakers collaborate to create a new style of art, poetry film. Marie Craven and Claudia Larose-Bell facilitated the conversation during this workshop about their experience working with poetry film. The second workshop on Friday was entitled Perspective in Poetry and this was led by poet Kimberly Reyes.

It explored how to handle looking at a situation from another character’s perspective when writing poetry. Reyes shared her knowledge about writing from another’s perspective while looking at the works of Gwendolyn Brooks and Frank Bidart who both showed empathy in their work through unlikely perspectives.

Saturday afternoon began in the Kino with a display of poetry film, curated by Marie Craven. Combining the two mediums together created a new art form where the collaboration of the poet and the filmmaker was evident throughout the performance. These poetry films touched on the themes of sorrow, history and modern technology. They intertwined beautifully together to tell a story that would not have been possible using just one medium.

The range of poetry films that were shown showcased the length

and breadth of human imagination from across the world and how a collaborative creative process can produce a poetry film that might not have been what you first expected to be. This idea of intent in the creative process, which encapsulates all the artists involved in the creation of these poetry films, is just one of the things that distinguishes it from other art forms in existence today.

This display was followed by a panel discussion about poetry film and the impact it has had on the world so far. Questions were opened to the floor to give the audience the opportunity to share their musings on the production.

The panel also offered some insight into the world of poetry film as it is developing today and how it is produced both in Ireland and

abroad. University Express asked panel member and poet Paul Casey what he saw as the future of poetry in Cork and in Ireland: “I think the future of poetry lies in inclusivity and diversity. We will continue to grow audiences and sustain diverse audiences.

Different communities, different cultures, different languages and different registers, and a mix of different kinds of poetry, spoken word, lyric page poetry there is an endless spectrum of different forms. Collaboration with other artforms [is needed], poetry needs to survive well and to be healthy it needs to work with musicians in needs to work with filmmakers and artists of all kinds. Poetry informs other arts, as much as it is informed by other arts.”

After a short break, a closed mic

performance from regular poets at Ó’Bhéal began. These poets came from all walks of life and many of the poems they read were inspired by their own life experiences. It provided an intimate look into the poetic creative process and how people told the stories of their life through poetry.

The afternoon ended with poetry readings that began at 3:30pm.

Poets Aifric McGlinchey, Francis Jones and Ciarán O’Driscoll read selections of poems from their own collections. Many of Aifric McGlinchey’s poems centred around unrequited love and love of nature. Her poem ‘Silver Wings’ spoke of growing up in many different places and having many identities and yet not being certain which one you truly belonged to. While Francis Jones’ performance centred around World War II as he read from his book, ‘Miklós Radnóti, Camp Notebook’. An English translation of the poems that Miklós Radnóti wrote while he was imprisoned during World War II. As I sat back and listened to the uncomfortable words that surrounded me, it felt like I was being told the story of history from someone who had lived through it. As uncomfortable as it was, the performance succeeded in being something I would remember as literature, by nature, is designed to stir something inside you. Ciarán O’Driscoll was the third poet to perform in this poetry reading and made the audience smile with the humour in his poem, The Copper Mines of Peru. After the serious register in the previous reading, this poem brought a light-hearted atmosphere to the poetry reading.

This festival opened my mind up to a modern influx of poetry and how it is still evolving in the present day. Seeing poetry in play outside of a book and a classroom was a thrilling experience and this weekend showed me that the arts impact us all in our daily journey through life.

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Sports

Issue 6 | Tuesday 26th November 2019 | University Express

Smith ‘Rydes’ Luck and Wilder Unleashes Terrifying K/O Writes Jack Maguire, Sports Editor Callum Smith once again defended his WBA Super Middleweight Title in Liverpool last Saturday night after fighting off a valiant attempt from mandatory challenger, John Ryder. Smith was made to work to keep his title in a bout where he was far from his best. The opening round was very cagey with neither fighter giving much away, and Smith with the height and reach advantage kept Ryder at arm’s length. As the contest progressed, Ryder found his feet and his height and reach disadvantage became less obvious.

Ryder kept his leading leg close to Smith forcing him back and it limited his ability to swing big hooks and connect properly. It was a tight encounter from then on with Ryder bringing the fight to the reigning champion and the two pushed each other to the limit. In the ninth round, Smith brought it to the attention of the referee that Ryder was leading with his head and they exchanged

some vengeful hits. The man from London piled the pressure on the Champion and forced him back in the 10th round. The final round was full of excitement with each fighter celebrating after the concluding bell. Although he entered the ring as a massive underdog, Ryder emerged from the bout as a possible victor.

Despite a brave challenge to the crown, it was indeed ‘Mundo’ who had his hand raised. The judge’s cards read 117-111, 116-112 and 116-112 all in favour of the Liverpudlian. The decision came under criticism from pundits and spectators alike claiming that Ryder pipped the contest and that he had done enough to clinch the title.

Smith was critical of his performance after the fight and he put his under-par performance down to a lack of fear of John Ryder.

“I didn’t believe John Ryder was good enough to beat me. There are fighters that I believe are good enough to beat me that don’t per-

form and that’s going to bring out the best in me. That’s what I want, I want the big names”.

Deontay Wilder also successfully defended his WBC Heavyweight Title in a tough encounter with Luis Ortiz in Las Vegas in the early hours of Sunday Morning.

It was quite an unusual contest where up until round 7, Wilder had lost every round on the judge’s scorecards. Then out of nowhere ‘The Bronze Bomber’ unleashed a thunderous right hand which sent Ortiz to the floor and it was all over. Wilder extended his unbeaten run to 43 fights, but not without a hotly contested battle. In their original meeting on the 3rd of March last year, Ortiz severely hurt Wilder and came close to stopping the fight but it was the WBC Champion who ran out the winner with a barrage of blows in the 10th round. The opening rounds of Wilder v Ortiz II followed a similar line to the first fight with Ortiz clinching the

first few rounds. It took Wilder a while to find his range and it was a moment of magic that won him the fight. Wilder confirmed after the fight that he will take on Tyson Fury again early next year after a controversial split draw between the two heavyweights last year. Wilder will also be keeping a close eye on Anthony Joshua’s rematch with Andy Ruiz Jr in two weeks’ time where ‘AJ’ will look to retain the IBF, WBA and WBO Titles which Ruiz Jr won from him earlier this year.

If both Joshua and Wilder come through their next contests, they are on a collision course to meet in a Heavyweight unification fight some time in 2020. Wilder is confident of securing the titles and as he said in his postmatch comments, “I want unification. I want one champion, one face and one heavyweight champion, Deontay Wilder”.

Issue 6 | Tuesday 26th November 2019 | University Express

Sports

Mourin-home: José’s Back in the Prem Once Again Writes Jack Maguire, Sports Editor

37

UCC Sports Review Wrties Jack Maguire, Sports Editor

The UCC Soccer team enjoyed a successful campaign in Belfast last week. UCC defeated UL 5-0 in the Spillane Cup Final on Wednesday.

Goals from Darragh Crowley, Liam Barber x2, Rory Doyle and Conor Bowdren sealed the victory for the Cork side.

UCC were unlucky in their Harding Cup venture as they were narrowly defeated on penalties by NUIG, having drawn 4-4 after the regulation period.

The man who famously said in a press conference four years ago, “Never, I love the Chelsea fans too much” when asked if he would ever go to Spurs was left to eat his words last week after he was announced as the new Tottenham Hotspur manager.

Mourinho was brimming with pride after he was revealed as Mauricio Pochettino’s successor only hours after the Argentinian was relieved of his duties. Only five months ago, Pochettino and his Spurs side were in the Champions League final. The past few seasons has seen them go from strength to strength, but unfortunately as is seen too often in the modern game, a poor streak of form is all it takes for big changes to be made. Pochettino led Spurs to their highest league finish since 1990 in the 2015/16 season but their challenge fell short to Leicester.

Spurs progressed to greater heights the following season recording their highest ever points tally of 86 points, but once again came out second best. Mourinho wasted no time in praising Pochettino for the work that he did with Spurs over the past five years.

“I have to congratulate him for the work he did, I have to share with you what we’ve

already shared indoors, which is this club will always be his home”. The Portuguese manager is well known for being tough, but he certainly showed another side to himself with his kind offer to Mauricio. “When he misses the players, when he misses the people that he worked with.

The door is always open for him”.

There was a sense of sympathy and confusion among the other Premier League managers following Pochettino’s sacking.

There was no easing into the job for Mourinho, as the local derby awaited him on Saturday. Spurs made the trip to the Olympic Stadium to take on West Ham, with high expectations from fans it would be no simple task. It took 36 minutes for the first goal to come but it was the visitors who broke the Deadlock. Heung Min Son turned his man in the box and fired across the keeper to calm any nerves or preconceptions held by the fans. A fantastic bit of trickery from Dele Alli released Son who squared the ball for Lucas Moura who added a second 7 minutes later. 4 minutes into the second half Spurs put daylight between the London rivals when Harry Kane met Serge Aurier’s cross with a fantastic header. A late fightback by ‘The Hammers’ courtesy of Michail Antonio and Angelo Ogbonna wasn’t enough to spoil

Mourinho’s big day and his new team came away with all 3 points.

Mourinho was in good humour after the final whistle and was very pleased with what he saw “I was very very happy, playing well, we were bringing to the game things that we trained”.

He was very relaxed in his reaction which is somewhat unusual from such an exciting character.

He understood that fatigue and mixed emotions following the international break played a part but overall he was satisfied with his teams display. Christian Eriksen did not make the starting 11 today, and Troy Parrott did not make the matchday squad. after a promising few months for the Irish international Parrott, Pochettino was willing to give him opportunities in the first team.

With the introduction of Mourinho, there could be changes on the card for some of the Spurs players, and if they continue their form and winning run, players such as Parrott could find themselves surplus to requirement. It was all smiles for Spurs on Saturday though, with their fantastic performance and victory, and their huge rivals Arsenal dropping points. It was Spurs first league victory in nearly 2 months and no doubt Jose will be filled with confidence and ambition for the coming fixtures.

UCC Rugby took on Cork Con in the Energia All-Ireland League at the Mardyke and were defeated 10-6. After going 7-0 down, John Poland brought the deficit back to 1 point with a penalty just before half time, but Cork Con ran out victors in the end.

The UCC Intermediate Hurling team took on UL at the Mardyke in their league semi final but came out on the wrong side to a strong UL side, 2-20 to 1-12. There was better news for The Fresher A Football team travelled to Thurles last Monday week to play GMIT in their league semi-final. They emerged victorious on a scoreline of 3-11 to 1-11. They then went on to win the final last Thursday night in The Mardyke GAA Grounds defeating UL 1-19 to 0-14. In Division 3 Camogie, UCC triumphed over IT Tralee with a 2-11 to 1-9 victory.

Sports

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Issue 6 | Tuesday 26th November 2019 | University Express

Soccer Injustices: Remembering Henry 10 Years On

Writes Jack Maguire , Sports Editor Last Monday marked ten years since that dreadful night in Paris. The night that will never be forgotten as long as the nightmare is passed down from generation to generation.

In recent years Ireland have struggled to reach the World Cup and to think that the one campaign that we deserved to qualify from was snatched away from us is gut wrenching.

I will never forget the pure sick feeling of injustice that night and going to bed gutted that we would miss the worldwide spectacle the following Summer.

Technology in the sport has come a long way since that fateful night, and if occurrences like that handball were to happen today, it would not evade the sharp eye of the video analyst referee. Ireland have not been the only side that have suffered at the hands of referee blunders. Frank Lampard’s ‘goal’ against Germany in the last 16 of the 2010 World Cup that was not given despite crossing the line was a fatal mistake by the referee as

that would have tied the game at 2-2, after Matthew Upson pulled a goal back for the Three Lions only minutes earlier. It was this controversy that lead to the introduction of goal line technology for the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.

The introduction of VAR to the English Premier League has made an incredible difference be it for better or worse. Although some argue that it slows down the game, and that every decision ends up being passed to the video assistant, it is vital that the right calls are made. As Irish football fans, we never want to see anyone endure the pain we did a decade ago. In days gone by, if a goal was scored, the scorer would wheel away in celebration while the fans dance in wonderland. Now, there is almost the feeling that the scorer must look to the linesman, and to the ref and to the big screen and wait to hear their verdict before they can really enjoy their goal.

On a personal note, I think some of the times VAR is called into action kills the excitement for both the players and the fans. International football could certainly have benefitted from the video referee over the years, particularly in the high-stake games. Prob-

ably the most well known act of deception on the field of play was the ‘Hand of God’ successfully performed by arguably the greatest player that ever lived, Maradona. If only VAR had been in use at the time, Maradona could well have been handed his marching orders. It was England who once again drew the short straw and were on the receiving end of another piece of trickery. Even in more recent times, in the World Cup Qualifiers Play-off between Northern Ireland and Switzerland, Switzerland were incorrectly awarded a penalty when the referee said Corry Evans blocked a shot with his hand. This penalty was the deciding factor in Switzerland progressing to the 2018 World Cup and The North returning home with nothing to show for their incredible efforts.

With Mauricio Pochettino’s sacking last week, its hard to believe that only five months ago, his Spurs side were in the Champions League Final. On their route to the final, they had a nervy encounter with VAR in their controversial quarter final meeting with Manchester City. They were 4-4 on aggregate with City in the dying minutes and set to progress

on away goals. Raheem Sterling thought he had clinched the victory for city with a goal in stoppage time, only for VAR to rule it out, claiming Sergio Aguero was offside in the buildup. This call came only minutes after Fernando Llorente’s goal for Spurs was argued by the Man City players to have hit Llorente’s elbow before bouncing off his hip and into the net.

VAR waved away the frantic claims of the City players stating that the angle he saw gave him no reason to change his mind. In the other quarter final tie between Ajax and Real Madrid, their were two controversial decisions made. In the first leg, Ajax scored in a goalmouth scramble only for VAR to rule it out saying a foul was committed by Dusan Tadic on Thibaut Courtois. In the second leg, Tadic put another goal past Courtois but the goal was reviewed after claims that the ball had gone out of play in the build up to the goal. Although it did appear that the ball went out of play, the goal still stood. It is these kinds of decisions that question the integrity or consistency of VAR. at the end of the day though, it

Sports

Issue 6 | Tuesday 26th November 2019 | University Express all comes down the man in the middle and what he says rules.

Since VAR has come into use, it has created a huge argument between pundits and fans. It gets quite tedious hearing that this goal should have been disallowed, and that goal should not have been given. It leads people to question goals that do not really need to be questioned. While I support the right decisions being made in the beautiful game, I feel that it has ruined the flow of the games and the enjoyment of the fans. It is part of the reason for my loss of interest in the English Premier League.

For many years, football games were played all over the world without any sort of video analyst and fair enough there were some questionable decisions made, but people had accepted that as part of the game and everybody would feel hard done by at times. Players would argue their case with the referee, but their efforts would be in vain. Now if a player protests, VAR will be called in, and players will always protest for the good of their team meaning pleading to the ref

multiple times in each half, which slows the game and dampens the excitement of the action. Obviously, you can’t argue with the right decision being made, but it is certainly being used too freely and frequently now. To finish off, I have included a selection of reactions and memories of the ‘Henry Incident’ just to mark the occasion, hopefully one we will never see the likes of again.

Ciaran Dineen, University Express, Editor in Chief: I remember feeling disappointed that a player as great as Henry would do that, but after that thinking how if it was me and for my country, I’d have done it too. Actually, the thing I remember most is Sepp Blatter laughing at us and Evra saying he’d rematch us on his playstation.

Sam Curtin: University Express, Deputy Sports Editor: it still gives me shivers down my spine. I remember just being in stunned silence and I remember the next day actually our teacher got us to re-enact the incident and I was Henry.

Cailean Coffey, University Express, 2018 Editor in

Chief: I’d never, in my young life, felt such a sense of injustice in all my time on this green earth.

Were my eyes deceiving me? Had no one seen what I’d seen? Was the referee, indeed, blind as I had so often protested? At 12 years old I thought the world was fair.

I thought the world was just, moral, equal. I had heard stories, sure, of the unending corruption at the hands of FIFA, but I never thought it would ever be this blatant. Robbie Keane had given us a sniff of hope in the first half, only for it to be ripped from our fingertips by the Gods of wrath and anger. Not only was I an Ireland fan, watching his favourite players crumple into despondency come the final whistle, but I was an Arsenal fan, and one who had hailed Henry as a hero, an icon, a legend, he who could do no wrong, until now. Watching Henry to volleyball it onto the oncoming forehead of former Arsenal Captain, William Gallas, it was as though my first love had betrayed me. Such innocences, in the eyes of greed, once lost could never be returned. A jersey, never to be worn again. You let me down Thierry, how could you!

Cian

McGrath,

University

39 Express, Byline Editor: the 2010 World Cup qualifying campaign was the first one that I’ve ever truly invested in with Ireland. I was too young when Staunton was in charge, but I can remember watching the whole 2010 run, and falling in love with the Irish National Team. I’d been at the 2-2 draw with Italy in Croker, and have been to many games since.

I’m happy to say that there has certainly been more good days than bad with the Boys in green, but I still despise Thierry Henry. It was probably the first time in my life that I’d realised that somethings just weren’t fair and nothing could be done about it. 11 year old me just stormed off to bed swearing that he’d never watch a game of ball again. Luckily that’s not the case, and the Irish National Team remain close to my heart, even if they drive me spare!

Jonathan Hanley, University Express, Webmaster: I was absolutely disgusted by it, and it really did put me off international football for a few years.

University

Volume 24 | Issue 6 | Tuesday 26th November 2019

Sports

UCCExpress.ie

Ireland V Denmark – Match Day in Dublin

Writes Jack Maguire, Sports Editor It seemed familiar, Denmark travelling to Dublin for a crunch match. With nightmares of their last visit still very fresh in the minds of Irish soccer fans, there would certainly be scepticism in amongst the optimism of the supporters. With many people arguing that Cristian Eriksen is in the worst form of his life, the man who dictated The Danes demolition of Ireland in 2017, could we be in with a shout?

As myself, Cian McGrath (Byline Editor) and Jonny Hanley (Webmaster) departed Kent Station on Monday, we had a good feeling about what lay ahead. Despite the criticism that the Irish set up had come under in the past few months, we had only suffered one defeat, at the hands of Switzerland, in the qualifying campaign. After 3 hours of discussion and debate, we reached Heuston

where you could already see the green wave beginning to evolve.

Fans from all over the country descended on Dublin and it was evident from the moment we stepped off the train. Ireland fans packed into the Luas like sardines heading towards the modern hub of Irish football.

After the obligatory pit stop in Slattery’s for pre match refreshments, we emerged into the green haze. The volume was cranked up as the crowds gathered for the march to the stadium. I have never experienced anything like the atmosphere an excitement surrounding the parade to Lansdowne. The fireworks and flares were in full flight, and the Fields of Athenrye was ringing out around Shelbourne Road. After ‘greeting’ the Danish team bus, we poured into the stadium to continue the encouragement in the stands.

The buzz in the South Stand was electric and the Boys in Green made their way onto the pitch to

rapturous applause and chanting. As Amhrán Na Bhfiann reverberated around the ground, you could feel the passion and the expectation in the hearts of all the spectators. Ireland showed signs of promise after what could be described as a nervy start where the ball was being knocked around the back line under a Danish high press. Ireland really switched on the attacking flair when Martin Braithwaite skipped the offside trap to put the visitors into the lead in the 73rd minute.

Sean Maguire was introduced in the 81st minute and the change was evident, an additional option on the right broadened Irelands attack, and on 85 minutes, Matt Doherty met Enda Steven’s cross on the edge of the six yard box to draw the sides level. It was the most unusual feeling when the goal went in because usually when Ireland score we’d be head over heels behind the goals, but this time the celebrations was subdued knowing that there was more work to be done.

Unfortunately that golden goal to send us to the Euro’s never materialised and we came away with a draw which wasn’t a bad result.

Despite the result, and the fact that we have to beat Slovakia and possibly our neighbours from The North to make it to Euro 2020, it was the best atmosphere I have ever experienced at an Ireland game. Between the march to the stadium, and the volume of the supporters inside the ground it truly was a great evening. To top off what had already been an exciting evening, I met one of my footballing heroes Damien Delaney outside the Aviva. I will follow the Irish soccer team ‘til my last breath, and to see so many other fans with the same outlook as myself really gives me hope for the future. Although results might not always go our way, the passion and pride of the players is unrivalled, and the loyal fans will always have their back.