wicklowvoice overall business of the year at the bray chamber of Commerce endeavour awards
.ie
September 13, 2019 t: 01 901 5565 e: info@wicklowvoice.ie
FREE
20,000 copies
FREE
Unit 5, Idea House, Killarney Road Business Park, Bray
wicklowvoice.ie September 13, 2019
wicklowvoice overall business of the year at the bray chamber of Commerce endeavour awards
inside: FREE
May 28, 2015, 01 901 5556/7, September 13,t:2019 wicklowvoice.ie e: info@wicklowvoice.ie t: 01 901 5565 e: info@wicklowvoice.ie
.ie
20,000 copies
DART in danger of falling into sea
The DART line in parts of Dublin is in danger of falling into the sea, according to council climate reports published recently. The four local authorities in Dublin have each drawn up their own Climate Change Action Plan to highlight what will be needed to tackle the effects of climate change in the years to come. Although Wicklow County Council was not involved in the process, the findings would also affect the line between Bray and Greystones potentially causing untold environmental damage and putting at risk tens of thousands of jobs. Potential issues to the DART line were mentioned in two reports – Dún LaoghaireRathdown (DLR) and Dublin City Council (DCC). “Damage to critical infrastructure and housing from coastal flooding and sea level rise. This results in economic and social risks to
Rory (11) and Louis (3) Fusco with the DDSL Under 12s C1 Cup which was won by Ardmore Rovers recently. See page 8. » Lots more pictures from around the county inside
Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown, especially since some housing and major infrastructure (roads, DART lines) are along the coast,” the DLR plan states. A similar finding is stated in the DCC report. “All infrastructure and property located in close proximity to the coast is at risk of flood damage from sea level rise and increasing storm surge events,” Green Party Councillor Steven Matthews told the Wicklow Voice. “This is the reality of the serious impact of climate change, imagine the traffic chaos in the greater Dublin area if rail services have to be suspended for a prolonged period of time due to flooding or damage to the network.” DLR’s report states that sea levels in Dublin Bay appears to be rising at a rate faster than had first been predicted - almost double the global average in the past 20 years. Continued on next page
FREE
Unit 5, Idea House, Killarney Road Business Park, Bray
04| NEWS news in brief Wicklow Town Business Awards Wicklow Town & District Chamber have announced that their prestigious Dinner Dance & Business Awards will take place on Friday, October 4 in The Great Eastern Pavillion at Tinakilly Country House Hotel. Nominations are now officially open get your entries in by voting online at WicklowChamber. ie, by emailing susana@ wicklowchamber.ie or by texting your nominated business to 086 089 7702 before 5pm on September 20, 2019. There are four award categories: Best Retailer, Best Eating Establishment/ Hospitality/Pub, Best New Business, and Best Small to Medium Business. Tickets: www.gr8events.ie/chamberball. ie or from the Chamber Office on (0404) 66433.
Climate protest Fianna Fáil Health spokesperson Stephen Donnelly has expressed his support for tstudents planning to take part in the Global Climate Strike on September 20. The students, who are following the lead of famed 16-year-old climate campaigner, Greta Thunberg, will gather in Burnaby Park in Greystones at 1.30.
wicklowvoice.ie September 13, 2019
Something to swing about!
Danielle Byrne (5) enjoying Greystones South Beach Playground. The Playground has been cited as an example to follow in a bill going through the Seanad. Pic: Leigh Anderson. A playground in Greystones is being held up as a model of inclusivity in Leinster House and should form a template for how similar facilities throughout the country can cater for children with a disability, according to legislators. Greystones South Beach Playground has been cited as an example to follow in a bill going through the Seanad. The Disability Bill 2019 has reached committee stage and seeks to ensure better provision of public services for people with a disability. It is sponsored by a number of leading disability
campaigning Senators including John Dolan, Alice-Mary Higgins, Victor Boyhan, Ivana Bacik, Frances Black and Lynn Ruane. If passed, it will require local authorities and other developers building playgrounds to apply the inclusive principles incorporated at South Beach. Construction of the playground was funded through voluntary donations and businesses including Bray Retail Park and Wicklow County Council. According to Emma Leonard, asset manager of Bray Retail Park, “it is
wonderful that this facility, which businesses at Bray Retail Park financially contributed towards, is being highlighted in this way.” South Beach Playground is challenging and fun for all children and was finally opened in August 2018 after two years of campaigning by the Greystones South Beach Playground Committee. “We are delighted to be cited as a model of inclusivity for our support of side-byside play as we celebrate the first anniversary of South Beach Playground,” said Committee Chair, Niamh Egan.
DART in danger of sea fall Continued from previous page
Other risks associated with a rise in sea levels outlined in the DLR report include: Increased pressure on sanitation systems – increased flood risk on land, increased risk for wastewater treatment plants and sewage pumping stations. An increase in coastal erosion and deposition risk. Destruction and alteration of coastal and marine ecosystems. These could have a massive impact on north Wicklow already the former landfill dump situated to the north of Bray Harbour has been falling into the sea. Furthermore, any pollution of Dublin Bay or its environs is likely to spill over into Killiney Bay and by extension Bray Seafront. The DCC report outlines similar risks and both reports predict that the Captial will need a new major water source by 2025, based on the projection of growth in the Greater Dublin Area. DCC will be committing a ‘certain amount’ of waste to the thermal treatment plant in Ringsend.
Gloves off as Harris and Martin trade blows over Health Did someone say election? There can be no surer sign that one is one the horizon than the row that broke out between Health Minster Simon Harris and Fianna Fail leader Micheal Martin, who previously held the role. Wicklow’s Harris said it was hard and galling to take a lecture from the Mr Martin on health spending after he claimed that the Government failed to reveal the full truth for the last three budgets. Mr Martin said this was because not enough was provided at the beginning of each year for elderly services which have lead to overruns.in the health budget. Minister Harris said that when Mr Martin was health minister, he could have stopped illegal nursing home charges but failed abysmally. He also said, that at the Cabinet table, Mr Martin took thousands of medical cards from people over 70. Minister Harris said that his Government was increasing and expanding investment in health. Responding to the minister’s comments, Mr Martin, who introduced the smoking ban
in 2004, said Mr Harris had failed to rebut the claim that health spending budget figures had been fraudulent for the last three years. Mr Martin also accused Mr Harris of being a poor and ineffective health minister. Fianna Fáil has called for full transparency on health spending as Budget talks between the party and the Minister for Finance get under way. Local TD, Stephen Donnelly, is Fianna Fail’s spokesperson on health and is believed to have highlighted a number of spending concerns with Mr Martin. Mr Martin said it is “incredible” that Mr Harris would accuse him of failing to keep control of costs when he was Minister for Health between 2000 and 2004. “It’s just so untrue in the sense that if you actually go back to about 2010, 2011, 2012, actually the HSE budgets were within target. “It’s about 2012 onwards, that seriously gets out of target and what’s happening from 2015 onward and you can look at this objectively and look at the figures at 2015 onwards is getting political.”
New Homesavers store Homesavers are to open their 25th store in the country, this time in Arklow, creating 30 jobs. “We are delighted to be bringing Homesavers to Arklow,” Chief Executive Tom Keogh said. “We have had great success in opening stores across the communities of Ireland including
Wicklow Town. Having spent the vast majority of my career working in the Irish Retail sector, I understand how important it is for Homesavers to continue to be community orientated and customer focused.” Homesavers Arklow will open on October 10 at 10am and you are invited to join in the opening celebrations.
|05
wicklowvoice.ie September 13, 2019
LIVING IN RURAL IRELAND? CAN’T GET HIGHSPEED BROADBAND
CHECK AGAIN! Ireland’s largest rural broadband network
NATIONAL COVERAGE WICKLOW
828 , 445
RURAL PREMISES
INCLUDING
234 , 092 REMOTE PREMISES ACROSS
31 , 000
RURAL TOWNLANDS
06 |
wicklowvoice.ie September 13, 2019
news in brief ‘Urgency needed for insurance costs’ Social Democrats Councillor Jennifer Whitmore has said much more urgency is needed from government to tackle soaring insurance premiums that are damaging small businesses and social enterprises around the country. “Today’s research by the Public Participation Networks shows that nearly half of community and voluntary groups have had to reduce their activities due rising insurance costs. Nearly half also say they are at risk of having to shut down completely if the price of insurance continues to rise,” Ms Whitmore said. “Small businesses and voluntary groups are the backbone of our communities, providing play spaces, activity centres, and community, recreation and sports facilities.”
Educate Together
Parents and guardians in Greystones and Kilcoole now have the opportunity to #VoteEducateTogether in an online survey opened on September 9 by the Department of Education and Skills. Parents whose children will be commencing first year in secondary school from 20202024 and who are living in the relevant school planning area are eligible to vote. Visit www. educatetogether.ie for more details.
Public warned to keep well away from breeding seals The public and dog owners have been warned to keep away from breeding seals this autumn. Wicklow County Council has issued a statement asking everyone to be mindful of disturbing seals when they visit the coast this autumn. Reports emerged earlier this week that Gardai had to be called to a seal colony following complaints from members of the public that fishermen were disturbing the animals. The two men are believed to have ignored signs warning people to keep away from the area and cast their rods very close to a seal on the beach. Meanwhile, a seal pup which was found at the cove in Greystones at the end of August died at a seal sanctuary in Courtown despite appearing to be healthy. September to December is a particularly important time for grey seals as it is the breeding season during which time the adults seek safe sites to “haul out” on land.
A seal on Silver Strand outside Wicklow Town
These are typically sheltered beach areas where the animals return year after year to breed, rest, moult and engage in social activity. In the coming weeks seals will give birth to a single pup which is born with a white coat
Join us for our
Wedding Open Day Sunday September 22nd 2019 | 3pm - 6pm
Radisson Blu St. Helen’s Hotel, Stillorgan Road, Blackrock, Co. Dublin. Tel: 01 218 6000 Email: Kaela or Zuzana at weddings.sthelens.dublin@radissonblu.com
radissonblu.ie/sthelenshotel-dublin
Follow us: ,
This can also lead to the abandonment of pups as mothers who are spooked by human contact will often not return for them. “Most ‘haul out’ sites along the East coast of Ireland have public access,” explained Deirdre Burns, Heritage Officer, Wicklow County Council. “Therefore the behaviour of people visiting the coast is hugely important.” Seals are legally protected under the Wildlife Act and it is illegal and dangerous to approach them or to allow dogs to do so. Grey seal mums will normally leave their pups alone on the beach for extended periods of time while they go off and hunt and will return to their pups to nurse. Just because a seal pup is observed alone on the beach does not necessarily mean the pup has been orphaned. For any questions or concerns, the public is welcome to contact the SRI 24 hour hotline on 087 1955393 so that the team can assess if rescue is required. See www.sealrescueireland.org
and does not swim. Mothers will stay close to their pup for a number of weeks until it is weaned, during which time the animals are very vulnerable to disturbance by humans and dogs. Seal rescue Ireland (SRI) rec-
ommends that people and dogs stay at least 100 meters or more from seals that are “hauled out” as coming close to them will cause stress and could cause a stampede possibly leading to injury, drowning or death to small pups in particular.
Try a choir for a week launched
My father still hasn’t paid price, says brave Fiona
Thinking of starting something new in September why not join a choir? Launching on Culture Night, Try a Choir week is a first in County Wicklow, though choirs receive members at all times throughout the year, this is the first mass ‘call out for participation’ coordinated by Wicklow County Arts Office as part of the range of ways it is supporting singing in the community. Wicklow has a fantastic array of choirs in almost every corner of the county, membership is often free or for a very nominal rate. Some of the singers meet for pleasure, some for competition, some for therapeutic reasons and some simply for the joy of music. In an age where social prescribing – GP’s linking people with non-medical sources of support within the community to improve physical, emotional and wellbeing is now becoming a phenomenon in Ireland, community connection has perhaps never been more important. Many choirs have websites you can look up such as https:// www.serendipityacappella.net/.
Convicted paedophile Patrick O’Brien from Bray will walk free from jail next month after six years behind bars. He was originally sentenced to 12 years after being convicted of systematically abusing his daughter Fiona Doyle (pictured) in the 1970s and 80s. “He hasn’t paid a price. I will always suffer with the effects of what he’s done,” she said. And Fiona is still waiting to hear where Mr O’Brien will go once he is released. However, it is believed he cannot return to his house Bray to live after he is released as his grand daughter, Fiona’s own daugher, lives there with her children. Ms Doyle says the abuse by her father started the night before her First Holy Communion and went on for a decade. “Everywhere and anywhere he could,” she said. “The cemetery, the beach, family
holidays, days out, the golf course, nearly every day.” She said her late mother knew what was going on, saying: “I was always called ‘your father’s whore’. Then she would deny she said it.” In 2013, Mr O’Brien, originally from Dún Laoghaire in Dublin, was found guilty of repeatedly raping his daughter between 1973 and 1982. He was sentenced to 12 years in prison, with nine years suspended. In 2015, Ms Doyle appealed the ruling and the Court of Appeal ruled it was unduly lenient. They said he would have to serve nine of the 12 years, with three suspended. He would have been behind bars until 2022. But after good behaviour, O’Brien, who is now 80, is due to be released on October 24. Ms Doyle says she is struggling to come to terms with the idea of his walking free.
| 07
wicklowvoice.ie September 13, 2019
NOW IN STOCK
2019 Designer Bathrooms FROM
FROM
€4500
FROM
€16.90
€14.90
sq. yard
sq. yard
HALF PRICE Supply & Fit Offer 20 sq. yards Wall Tiles, 4 sq. yards floor tiles, border, adhesive & grout for both walls & floors. Quadrant shower door, tray & waste, toilet, basin, pedestal, tap, mirror
Porcelain Tiles
Wood Effect Tiles
www.houseoftiles.ie
Tel: 01 276 5775 | Email: bray@houseoftiles.ie
Unit 6, Southern Cross Retail Park, Bray *Terms and Conditions apply, See in-store for details Pictures are for illustration purposes only. All items subject to availability. Prices are subject to change without notice. Prices are correct at the time of print. VAT inclusive. All rights reserved. E & OE
LIKE US ON FACEBOOK & INSTAGRAM
08 |
Champions!
wicklowvoice.ie September 13, 2019
ARDMORE ROVERS U12s TEAM TRIUMPH IN DDSL CUP FINAL
From left: Niall Wrafter, Denis Vickers, Conor McCabe, Bradley Gonouya, Rian Murphy, Roan Kierans, Fionn Keogh, Kyle Harte, Rory Fusco on Rory Wrafter’s shoulders, Daniel Garvey, Zach Whelan, Aaron Bodenham, Ethan Brierton, George Graham, Jake O’Neill, Timur Demirkol, Rhys Hempenstal and Alex Fusco Members of Ardmore Rovers who recently won the Dubin District Schoolboys League Under 12s C1 Saturday Cup, defeating a gallant Arklow Town 4-2 in the final in Greystones. Far left, Fionn Keogh with captain Kyle Harte; left, Bradley Gonouya; right, goalkeeper Rory Wrafter with his dad and manager Niall ‘Wrafta Benitez’.
Property prices take a tumble, survey shows HOUSE prices have dropped in almost every part of the country in the past six months. Apartment prices are rising in most parts of the country, whereas in Wicklow, prices dropped more than 8%. The Residential Property Price Barometer covers actual prices achieved by auctioneers in the first six months of 2019, for the three bestselling property types. In Wicklow the change in the six month period has been: •Down 8.58% for 2-bed apartments • Down 1.52% for 3-bed semidetached houses • Down 4.73% for 4-bed semidetached homes. Nationally, there has been a drop of 1.34pc in the price of 3-bed semis and 1.68pc for 4-bed semis. Two bed apartments have seen an average increase of 1.35pc.
The cities of Cork, Galway and Kilkenny experienced a higher increase for this property type. Despite the decrease, apartments in Wicklow remain relatively expensive. The average price of a twobedroom flat in the city is a little over €205,000. In Cork city it is €215,00. In Galway city it is €190,000 and in Limerick, €143,000. The highest apartment prices are in south Dublin. The price of a two-bed apartment there has fallen by a little over one per cent but still stands at a whopping €382,000. The barometer survey is conducted for IPAV, the Institute of Professional Auctioneers and Valuers. Pat Davitt IPAV Chief Executive said it is still the case that second-hand properties in many areas of the country can
be bought for less than the cost of building the same property. “In some areas the difference is substantial,” he said. And he said there is no question of a new property bubble emerging. “The factor that led to the quick ramping up of prices is the same one that is now prompting would-be buyers to hold back. “ It’s a question of confidence. People want to buy at a reasonable price but on the other hand there is a fear of paying too much and getting caught in negative equity, a sentiment that runs very deep and has become intergenerational since the financial crisis.” In a pre-Budget submission, IPAV has called on the Minister for Finance to increase the 3.5 times loan-to-income threshold for mortgages to 4.5 times income.
wicklowvoice.ie September 13, 2019
| 09
best of the best
10 |
wicklowvoice.ie September 13, 2019
jewellers Eternity Jewellers Unit 2 Mount View Church Road, Greystones, (01) 255 7640 Eternity Jewellery is a leading manufacturer and retailers of bespoke jewellery in Ireland. At Eternity we are passionate about jewellery. We source and retail unusual fine gold and silver jewellery. If you are looking for something a little different, then Eternity is the place to browse. We are experts in custom made engagement rings, wedding bands and eternity rings. Our in-house workshop has been responsible for creating jewellery pieces that draw considerable admiration. Friendliness remains at the core of Eternity Jewellery, where we pride ourselves on our customer service and love to share our enthusiasm for exquisite jewellery.
accountants FHM Accountants Suite 3, Market Court, Main Street, Bray, 01 2869977, fhm.ie Bray and Gorey based FHM Accountants, Chartered Certified Accountants & Registered Auditors, were recently awarded the coveted All-Ireland Business All-Star accreditation. The accreditation is overseen by the prestigious All-Ireland Business Foundation, whose adjudication panel is chaired by Dr Briga Hynes of the Kemmy Business School at the University of Limerick and Kieran Ring, CEO of the Global Institute of Logistics. It is a fantastic achievement for FHM Accountants to have obtained this prestigious and soughtafter award and this reflects the professional way in which they run every aspect of their practice. Contact Bray on 01286 9977 & Gorey office on 053 948 1780.
Windows viking energy glass Viking Business Park, Whitemill Industrial Estate, Wexford (053) 914 4111, www.vikingenergyglass.ie Did you know that 80% of Irish homes have inefficient glazing when compared to today’s standards and 25% of the heat in your home can be lost through your windows? By installing Viking Energy Plus Glass in your existing windows you can reduce this heat loss by a staggering 75%! which will have a big impact on the amount of energy you use..... and on your heating bills. New technology has seen significant improvements in the energy performance of glass and low-e glass such as Viking Energy Plus Glass will let more free heat from the sun come in and at the same time reflect heat back into the room. We guarantee the most energy efficient unit available anywhere. With over 30 years experience, call us today for a FREE no obligation survey and let us show you how Viking Energy Plus Glass can work for you.
sign and graphics Prunty Signs Bray, 01 2764673, pruntysigns.ie Prunty Signs have been providing a wide range of signage and print material for over 19 years. They have a sterling reputation for both quality & customer satisfaction. There is an unlimited amount of signage and print material available for Prunty Signs. Log onto their new website for more details. Signage, Full Colour Wall Wraps, Frosted Films, Brochures & Flyers, Pull Up Banners, Gold Banners, Feather Flags to name only some of the products available. Don’t hesitate to call us or email or need any advice on any of our products info@pruntysigns.ie
car sales and services Ryan & Brien Ltd 26 Beechwood Close Boghall Road, Bray, 01 2829183 The team at Ryan & Brien recently decided to open their own motor sales business, Ryan’s Auto Sales. The move came after the retirement of longtime colleague Michael Doyle. Ryan’s Auto Sales specialise in Suzuki and top of the line low-milage vehicles from a variety of makes and models. There is something to suit every budget. Ryan & Brien continues to operate as normal from the same premises. The garage caters for all vehicles. They have a rolling road brake, suspension tester and an engine decarboniser available. Air conditioning servicing - top up or complete service - is available along with NCT repairs.
| 11
wicklowvoice.ie September 13, 2019
takeaway Harbour, Greystones Proper chipper chips worth their salt and who could argue? There’s nothing more alluring than a bag of crispy chips smothered with salt and battered cod drenched in vinegar - it’s happiness in a bag. The batter on the fish is always deliciously crispy and the cod is unbelievably fresh, but their generous servings and friendly staff are what keep us coming back for more! The cafe and chipper are open seven days a week and serve full Irish breakfast and fresh fish daily.
electrician Ace Electrical 1 Roselawn Drive, Bray, 01 2868377, 087 2543113 For all your electrical needs, call Ace Electrical. Their team are RECI registered and fully insured to carry out any work you may need in your home or business. Ace Electrical specialise in electrical upgrades and no job is too big or too small. They are fully qualified to carry out all types of electrical repairs and additional works. Ace Electrical are strictly no nonsense and do not waste time so you can be sure that your work will be carried out in an efficient and timely manner. They are very affordable and even offer a back-up service. So, what are you waiting for? Call today and make your electrical problems a thing of the past.
gardening equipment and repair RITESTART The Mill, Church Lane, Greystones, (01) 255 7532
bespoke furniture cistella design 3 Albany Business Park, Kilcoole, Co Wicklow info@cistelladesign.ie, 01 211 6977 At Cistella Design we offer a diverse range of clients an extensive range of custom wood furniture and bespoke kitchens for their home. Cistella Design have over the last number of years garnered a reputation for excellence in the custom fitted furniture industry. Our team of qualified professionals are ready to assist you in actualising your designs in your home. We take a huge amount of pride in providing our customers with quality finished completed works to the highest standards. Our services are available for both the residential and commercial sectors. We can provide you with beautiful custom fitted furniture for the home, the bedroom, living areas and for multimedia equipment. We can also craft custom fitted furniture perfect for retail outlets and restaurants.
Legal Felton McKnight Solicitors Church Road, Greystones, 287 4341/287 4281, info@feltonmcknight.ie
Buying and Selling Property Enduring Powers of Attorney Mental Health Law
Our specialist solicitors provide expert legal services mainly in Dublin and Wicklow, but we also act for clients nationwide in the following areas: Family Law, Personal Injuries Law, Business and Company Law, Wills and Probate, Enduring Powers of Attorney & Mental Health Law, Litigation, Alternative Dispute Resolution & Commercial Law, Mediation, Employment Law and Property Law.
the best
Twelve years in business, RiteStart specialise in garden machinery and landscaping supply store. RiteStart offer sales and service of brands including Stihl, Viking, Shannper Husqvarna garden equipment. Domestic and Industrial Equiopment catered for and trade ins accepted. We sell and service and repair Lawnmowers, Chainsaws and many other tools. Everything you need for your garden under one roof. You’ve got to hand it to RiteStart!
Wicklow is full of fantastic businesses that help to make our towns great. This week, the Wicklow Voice decided to profile some these wonderful businesses. Whetheryou want to update your phone system or get wardrobes made, or something in between, you can find what you need right here. The thing that each of these businesses has in common is that they go above and beyond to ensure that their customers receive the very best product or service. The county would not be the same without these businesses so it important to remember to give back and shop local. Support Wicklow businesses and ensure that the county continues to grow and thrive. If you would like to be featured in the next Best Of The Best feature in the Wicklow Voice, the Dublin Voice, Waterford Today, Wexford Chronicle or Carlow People then contact us today on 01 9015565 or email info@ wicklowvoice.ie or info@ dublinvoice.ie
12 |
wicklowvoice.ie September 13, 2019
opinion&comment
The mouths of babes and crackpots
W
h e n I was 16 I knew just what was wrong with the world and how to fix it. Fortunately, the world wasn’t listening and so was spared the creation of an international Marxist super-state that paid surgeons the same as window cleaners and printed money for anyone who needed it. Looking back, I don’t think I was too bothered by the lack of attention. I didn’t have much sense at 16 but I had enough to realise that my ideas might be better in theory than in practice and that the foolish old duffers, who had been through World War Two and the Great Depression, might not be wrong all the time. Does Greta Thunberg ever have such doubts? If so, she hides them well. But why should this 16-year-old have doubts when the great and the good of the adult world hang on her every word and worship her as the new messiah?
Michael Wolsey She is in America at the moment where she is to address the United Nations on climate change and where she is trying to oraganise protests in favour of radical climate action. She travelled from Europe on a yacht, thus sparing the world the emissions a journey by plane would have generated. But, of course, the world wasn’t spared, because the scheduled flight she could have taken made the voyage anyway - and several people flew to New York to bring the yacht back to Europe. Greta’s journey took 15 days. If everyone followed her example, international travel would virtually cease along with a lot of international trade.
Michelle and Stephen Whelan with their son Zach following Ardmore Rovers’ recent win in the DDSL Under 12s C1 Saturday Cup. Inset, Jake O’Neill Rich countries would become poor and the poor countries, for whom Greta expresses much concern, would be destitute. Obviously, I am not one of Greta’s disciples. But my issue is not really with the Swedish teenager. She is a remarkable, articulate, young woman who holds her views passionately and sincerely. My issue is with adult society that gives credence to the half-
formed opinions of a 16-yearold and is prepared to let her shape important policies and influence crucial decisions. She is one face of a trend which rejects leadership that is rational and conventional in favour of conspiracy theories and emotional hogwash. Another is Mike Pence. Our recent visitor is an evangelistic Christian who does not believe in evolution and holds the
Biblical story of creation to be the literal truth. Ms Thunberg warns that the end is nigh if we don’t repent our climate polluting ways. Mr Pence, on the other hand, has declared that “global warming is a myth” and the Earth “is actually cooler today than it was about 50 years ago”. This man is Vice President of the United States of America.
And here’s the really alarming thing - he is probably more rational than the man who is President. In the 1930s, the German people put their faith in a despot who believed the world’s problems could be blamed on Jews. Japan and Italy trusted their fates to equally misguided crackpots. The result was World War Two. Since then the western world, at least, has been led by experienced politicians who believe in compromise and the value of slow and steady progress. In the second half of the twentieth century they gave us a society that was a very great improvement on that of the previous 50 years. We seem willing to put all that at risk by entrusting the future of the world to charlatans, carpetbaggers, 16-year-old girls and Boris Johnson. Greta Thunberg and Donald Trump are both scheduled to address the United Nations this month. Be afraid. Be very afraid.
wicklowvoice.ie September 13, 2019
| 13
14 |
wicklowvoice.ie September 13, 2019
WILDLIFE
ninenottomiss
Super September
book of the week
with Justin Ivory
tv show of the week
film of the week
HOROSCOPES Autumn migration….. Swallows getting ready to leave our shores (Photo Justin Ivory) September spells back to school and the start of autumn with cool, damp mornings where evoking melancholic and bittersweet feelings for the brevity of summer and the prelude to shortening days, cooler temperatures and the dark, damp and decay of winter. It is a month where we can get every kind of weather from spectacularly hot and sunny days to gales and heavy showers (sure isn’t that every day in Ireland!). September is also a time of great change and activity in the natural world and has to be one of my favourite months. Below is a small selection of highlights to look out for during this wonderfully varied month.
Beech Mast….a favourite of • squirrels (Photo Justin Ivory) Mother Nature has her shelves full to brim with her harvest produce. Trees and shrubs are laden with fruits, nuts and berries including blackberries, beech mast and acorns to name but a few. • It is a great time of year to see and get close to Red Squirrels as they search for fruits to eat immediately and nuts to store going to great lengths to hide them. So intent are they on this activity it is possible to get close and watch them for several minutes without their noticing you. • Just like the squirrels, this is the best month to see our shiest and most colourful member of the crow family – the Jay, as they collect and hide acorns to see them through the winter. • The miracle of migration is in full flow this month as our summer visitors such as Swallows, Martins and Swifts gather and leave our shores to head south for the winter. Meanwhile Ducks, Geese and Waders that have spent the summer breeding in the Arctic and northern latitudes arrive in to spend the winter. Offshore there are huge numbers of seabirds including Petrels, Shearwaters and Skuas. That is just the tip of the iceberg of what is happening during September. So, don’t hibernate just yet. Get out there and enjoy the show!
AN ANONYMOUS GIRL
the rook Virgin Media 1, Friday September 13 @ 9pm
Good Boys Released September 5, 2019
When Jessica Farris signs up for a psychology study conducted by the mysterious Dr Shields, she thinks all she’ll have to do is answer a few questions, collect her money and leave. But as the questions grow more and more intense and invasive, and the sessions become outings where Jess is told what to wear and how to act, she begins to feel as though Dr Shields may know what she’s thinking . . . and what she’s hiding. As Jess’s paranoia grows, it becomes clear that she can no longer trust what is real in her life, and what is one of Dr Shields’s manipulative experiments.
The New series: Episode 1 - After waking up surrounded by dead bodies and no memory, Myfanwy Thomas is thrown into the world of the Checquy, a paranormal secret service where she’s a high-level operative known as a `Rook’. She soon finds that no one around her can be trusted. Myfanwy’s frantic and frazzled efforts to figure out just what the frilly heck is going on make up much of the drama’s first hour. Adaptation of the novel by Daniel O’Malley, starring Emma Greenwell and Joely Richardson.
The creative minds behind Superbad, Pineapple Express and Sausage Party take on sixth grade hard in the outrageous comedy, Good Boys. After being invited to his first kissing party, 12-year-old Max (Room’s Jacob Tremblay) is panicking because he doesn’t know how to kiss. Eager for some pointers, Max and his best friends Thor (Brady Noon, HBO’s Boardwalk Empire) and Lucas (Keith L. Williams, Fox’s The Last Man On Earth) decide to use Max’s dad’s drone – which Max is forbidden to touch – to spy (they think) on a teenage couple making out next door.
event of the week
walk of the week
by Greer Hendricks
workshop of the week
TRACK & SIGN WORKSHOP 14th September 2019 @ 9:00 am – 5:00 pm Tipi Adventures, Rathdrum, Co. Wicklow
major minors junior orchestra Bray, Meets Thursdays 4.30-5.30pm Contact Aoife 086 3848526
GLEN TO GLEN FOR WICKLOW HOSPICE 8th September 2019 all-day, Glenmalure Lodge www.itsplainsailing.com/club/wicklowhospice
There is an innate curiosity and spirit of adventure in everyone. This is particularly true for children and young people. Tipi Adventures are running a Track and Sign Workshop weekend of events for those in the world of Woodcraft and outdoor life skills. This is a unique opportunity for people to obtain accredited outdoor skills and learn under the guidance of John Rhyder. Woodcraft School Accredited Advanced Bushcraft Level 3 Course. Further information and booking available from http://www.tipiadventures.ie or Call Ed at 0877866734 or email ed@tipiadventures.ie
Major Minors Junior Orchestra would love to welcome new players and look forward to hearing from young primary-school age musicians. If you play violin, viola, cello, flute, clarinet, recorder, oboe, keyboards or percussion please do get in touch. Potential new members are welcome to come along for a week to see if they like it before joining. The orchestra is conducted by Michelle LeMay and there are volunteer music tutors on hand each week to help. Playing in an orchestra is a great way to make music and friends.
These Full Moon Walks are an excellent opportunity to see beautiful landscape by the light of the moon. The walks will be short 2-3 hr walks and suitable for most levels of fitness. About the Enniskerry walk: The walk will take place close to Enniskerry village, on Carrickgollogan, and take in many of the great wooded trails along the way. There are fantastic 360 degree views from the top of this small hill across the eastern coastline of Dublin and Wicklow. The tracks is very good and easy to walk on and we will also pass by the Ballycorus Lead mines Chimney.
concert of the week
festival of the week
masterclass of the week
AriesFresh energy floods your work, health and vitality. Nurture yourself before caring for others. Power into physical routines. TaurusThis period sparks a twoweek family, fun and passion phase. A romantic relationship transforms. It’s all for love and love for all. GeminiWrap your love around home and family. A new domestic phase arises. A seed planted long ago flowers. CancerAdapt to unexpected news. Profit through communications. Breakthroughs arise in conversation. Share gratitude and appreciation. LeoUse creative communications for sales and marketing. Step into new levels of prosperity. Begin a lucrative two-week phase. VirgoA new personal phase dawns for your sign. Take charge. Take your talents, capacities and skills to new levels. LibraInsights, breakthroughs and revelations sparkle. Dreams seem within reach. Practice benefits a philosophical, spiritual and mindful phase. ScorpioBreakthroughs in friendship, social networks and community provide cause for celebration. Take a group endeavor to new heights. Sagittarius-
Accept new responsibilities as you prepare for a challenge. Professional opportunities shine. Develop a project from an idea to reality.
GLENN AND RONAN IN CONCERT 14th September 2019 @ 8:00 pm The Asgard Theatre, Arklow
MUSIC UNDER THE MOUNTAINS FESTIVAL 20th September 2019 @ 8:00 pm – 22nd September 2019 @ 9:00 pm
WILD FOODS MASTERCLASS 17th September 2019 @ 11:00 am – 3:30 pm Brooklodge & Macreddin Village, Aughrim
Arklow Music and Arts are delighted to welcome Glenn and Ronan to the intimate surrounds of our Asgard Theatre. The Dublin based duo, Glenn Murphy and Roland Scolard, have recently released their debut album, Horizon, but are perhaps better known for their appearance on-stage at Dublin’s 3Arena in 2018 accompanying Adele after she saw them performing a medley of her tunes on YouTube! The duo were then invited to perform on the Ellen Degeneres Show!
Music Under the Mountains is an annual festival of traditional Irish music hosted in Hollywood County Wicklow. Running since 1991 the festival generally runs during the third weekend of September each year providing a weekend packed full of concerts and sessions hosted by local and visiting musicians. Since 1996 Music Under the Mountains’ aim has been to support The Laura Greaves Music School, which provides musical tuition to children in the greater Hollywood area.
Participants will receive a welcome tour of Macreddin Village including The Kitchens and The Strawberry Tree’s Wild Foods Pantry, followed by in depth tuition taking them through a full calendar of natural Wild Foods that are available along 327,000km of our Irish Hedgerows. The MasterClass with The Chefs of The Strawberry Tree Restaurant and Evan Doyle, co-author of the best-selling ‘Wild Food’ book will cover identification as well as instruction on how to gather, cook and preserve using traditional methods.
CapricornStudy with a master. Consider different views and perspectives. Reach out for a long-distance connection. AquariusFind creative ways to grow your family’s nest egg. A lucrative phase dawns. Launch a profitable initiative with your team. PiscesGrow your love. Support each other through change or transformation. Partnership blossoms. Collaboration flowers beautifully. Begin a new chapter together.
| 15
wicklowvoice.ie September 13, 2019
opinion&comment
Brian Quigley
Just where will Brexit land?
S
o where will Brexit land, what will be the final word on this political and economic mess? To quote our own Paul Brady, there’s ‘’no use in asking – the answer is nobody knows’’. Obviously Paul wasn’t singing about Brexit, but if the quote fits, use it. Paul repeats the line twice in the chorus of the song; we could repeat it ad infinitum here and still be none the wiser. Like a good book that keeps you turning the pages, or a film that holds your interest right up until the end, Brexit is proving its worth as an entertainment source along with all its other (more sinister) implications. The tension and brinkmanship between the UK and the EU has been ratcheted up a few notches since Boris Johnson took office as Prime Minister. In the short time he has been in No. 10 he has taken the scarcely -conceivable step of moving to suspend parliament in the UK, a move more usually associated with a
Aaron Bodenham, George Graham and Roan Kierans following Ardmore Rovers’ recent win in the DDSL Under 12s C1 Saturday Cup dictator rather than a democratically-elected Prime Minister. He has also tried to collapse his own government and trigger
a general election, and apparently could end up in jail if he refuses to delay Brexit. BJ is intent on crashing out of
the EU, come hell or high water. That would benefit nobody except perhaps those who have invested in capitalising on a hard
exit. Some people always stand to make money when things go horribly wrong; the USA coming out of World War Two ex-
actly twice as rich as when they entered it comes to mind. Those of us on the ground always suffer and get to pick up the tab. Ireland’s position is starting to resemble more and more that of a rabbit caught in the headlights of an onrushing car in the dark of night on a lonely country road. We are feeling an increasing squeeze from both sides, given that our ‘Backstop’ is the main obstacle in the way of a deal. If the UK gets another extension then this pressure on us will only increase. There’s a difference between feeling the squeeze from both sides and starting to get played by both sides, but it is only a subtle difference. The EU have stood by us up to now but they have form when it comes to throwing us under the bus – remember the bailout. The big question we need to ask ourselves is whether we would be worse off after a Hard Brexit or an agreed UK withdrawal from the EU that has taken out the ‘backstop’. A choice between a rock and a hard place maybe, but one we may have to make.
16 |
wicklowvoice.ie September 13, 2019
COMHAIRLE CHONTAE CHILL MHANTÁIN WICKLOW COUNTY COUNCIL Applications are invited from suitably qualified persons for the following post. Panels may be formed from which future vacancies may be filled:
• ASSISTANT CHIEF FIRE OFFICER REF: 17/2019
• TEMPORARY EXECUTIVE ENGINEER REF: 23/2019
• TEMPORARY SUBSITUTE SCHOOL TRAFFIC WARDEN - BRAY REF: 24/2019
Application Forms and further details can be obtained from Enterprise & Corporate Services at 0404 20159 or by emailing recruitment@wicklowcoco.ie and on the Wicklow County Council website www.wicklow.ie CLOSING DATE FOR RECEIPT OF COMPLETED APPLICATION FORMS IS 12 NOON ON THURSDAY 26TH SEPTEMBER 2019 Wicklow County Council reserves the right to shortlist candidates in the manner it deems most appropriate
Buying? Selling? Contact us today
Buying? Selling? Contact us today
Wicklow County Council Is an Equal Opportunities Employer Thomas Murphy, Director Of Services Enterprise & Corporate Services Wicklow County Council County Buildings, Wicklow Phone: 0404 20159 Fax: 0404 20112 e-mail: recruitment@wicklowcoco.ie
t: 01 901 5565
t: 01 901 5565
| 17
wicklowvoice.ie September 13, 2019
S
inead Connolly, owner of Sin E Hair & Beauty, qualified at Peter Hair Creations in Blackrock. She worked as a Senior Stylist for five years before making the move to open her first salon 18 years ago in Blackrock. She opened Sin E in Charlesland, Greystones 14 years ago and business has been fantastic ever since thanks to her growing, loyal clientele. Sinead has had the same talented team working with her for several years. Sin E specialises in the organic hair colour, Natulique. It is exclusive to Sin E and the only certified organic hair colour in the world. Natulique, which has been featured on tv3’s Xpose, gives fabulous results and sublime shine. It covers 100% of grey and highlights beautifual bright blondes without making hair brittle and dry. Clients come from afar just to avail of Natulique which we have been specialising in for 5 years now. Sin E is open two late nights and customers can avail of ample free parking. Sinead and team would like to thank
all our loyal clients for their continued support. To celebrate our 14th Birthday, for the month of September all clients will receive a complimentary organic oil hair mayonnaise treatment and mini head massage.
18 |
wicklowvoice.ie September 13, 2019
insideback
Brian Quigley
Ireland’s rising sons head to Japan
A
fter the shambles that was the capitulation to England in Tw i c k e n h a m last month, Ireland needed something special from the back-to-back games against Wales to restore some pride and give the nation back some belief ahead of the Rugby World Cup. Without quite producing anything stunningly special, Ireland ground out successive wins over Warren Gatland’s side to become the number one ranked side in the world ahead of Japan. We won’t get carried away, but we are certainly in a much better place than we were after Twickenham. The 22-17 win in Cardiff on August 31 was against a weak Welsh selection, but the return match in Dublin on September 7 was between two full-strength sides going at it at Test-Match pace. Wales were stronger in the first half as Ireland continued to falter at set-pieces, but the sec-
ond half performance saw Ireland produce the goods and run in tries from Furlong and Ryan to go with Rob Kearney’s score from the first half. The game finished 19-10 in favour of Joe Schmidt’s side. Schmidt and captain Rory Best were saying goodbye to the Aviva stadium (Schmidt leaves his role after the World Cup, and Best is retiring from international rugby after Japan). Whilst it was great to see 2018 World Rugby player of the year Sexton back, we lost Cian Healy and Keith Earls to injury, giving Schmidt some headaches he could have done without in advance of the opening game against Scotland on September 22. Make no mistake, Ireland have an awful lot of work to do ahead of the tournament. If the England game was the starting point, we were looking at a long way
Trish and Damien Harte with their sons Kyle and Max following Ardmore Rovers’ recent win in the DDSL Under 12s C1 Saturday Cup. Inset left, Rian Murphy, and inset right, Daniel Garvey up to get back to a level that would put us as realistic contenders. We have grafted and made great progress with the Wales games, but the hard work will need to continue in training. Realistically we will be using the group games to continue to get to peak performance in advance of meeting New Zealand or South Africa in the last eight. New Zealand hammered Tonga 92-7 at the weekend, while South Africa were hit with the sad news of the passing of Chester Williams, the only black player in the 1995 World Cup winning side. Williams isn’t the first player from that squad to have died - James Small, Ruben Kruger and Joost van der Westhuizen have also passed away.
wicklowvoice.ie September 13, 2019
| 19
20 |
wicklowvoice.ie September 13, 2019