To cow or Do you want a United Ireland? not to cow? Kieran Doyle asks Fiona Hayes says giving up the question meat won’t solve the climate crisis page 22 page 13 www.westcorkpeople.ie & www.westcorkfridayad.ie April 2 – April 29, 2021, Vol XVII, Edition 224 FREE

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St Joseph’s GNS, Clonakilty raised €1,700 with their ‘Wear Yellow for Daffodil Day’ fundraiser. New Outdoor Dining Scheme positive but CLARKE BROS LTD Main CLARKEPeugeot Dealer, BROS longer-term plan needed says O’Sullivan Clonakilty Road, Bandon, Co. Cork. Tel: 023-8841923(BANDON) LTD ARTS & new €17 million grant ties to develop a strategy to develop hospitality sector certainty for the Web: www.clarkebrosgroup.ie scheme to allow tourism permanent, weather-proofed, out- future. Main Peugeot Dealer, ENTERTAINMENT and hospitality businesses door dining infrastructure,” Deputy “I appreciate the impact of this Clonakilty Road, Bandon, pages 44-48 Ato develop outdoor dining capacity O’Sullivan said. will have its limitations, as there are Co. Cork. will help prepare businesses for “Developing outdoor infrastruc- a number of premises, particularly Tel: 023-8841923 reopening, but more work is needed ture is key to answering consumer in this constituency, that do not to provide struggling businesses demand for more flexible dining have scope for outdoor dining. All cars can be seen on with long-term certainty according options. When the sector re-opens, There has to measures introduced to Cork South West Deputy Chris- enhanced outdoor dining will pro- to facilitate those premises as well,” www.clarkebrosgroup.ie topher O’Sullivan vide an attractive option to locals Deputy O’Sullivan said. The government’s Outdoor Din- and visitors alike.” “First and foremost, what’s Contact Ian Carey ing Enhancement Scheme launched The scheme comes in two parts: needed here above any funding 087 2624747 this week comprises two parts, and 1) Grants are available for tourism is a solid plan for the hospitality will be delivered in partnership and hospitality businesses and 2) sector; for restaurants, for cafes, [email protected] between Fáilte Ireland and Local funding for Local Authorities to de- for hotels, for pubs. That’s what’s Authorities across the country. velop permanent longterm outdoor needed more than anything, as these “This scheme serves two facilities. businesses crave certainty. That’s purposes – in the near term it will Deputy O’Sullivan said while something I will continue to shout allow businesses to offset the cost the scheme will help reinvigo- for.” HOME & GARDEN of building this outdoor dining and rate spaces and make them more The Scheme opens for initial pages 49-51 increase their capacity, and in the attractive to visitors in the long applications on April 12, 2021. long term it will allow local authori- term, more work is needed give the

Once the 5km limit lifts..... Add your business today! 83,000 unique website www. o .ie visits last summer! expl re ...to discover our unexplored gems. 2 April 2 – April 29, 2021 In March resident Roos Demol shared the Cork Person of the Month Award with Breda Keane Shortt for their efforts in supporting migrants, refugees, asylum seekers and Making it right those in direct provision in Cork. The Flemish human rights activist, who has created several integration initiatives within the Irish community, as well as supporting victims of war both in Ireland and abroad, chats to West Cork People about her voluntary work.

iving in Ireland since determined to find ways to 1998 and working with help.” When the protest in the asylum seekers and ref- Road Accommodation Lugees since 2013, Roos Demol centre happened in 2014, Roos can’t remember a time when decided to bite the bullet and she hasn’t been very active in go and support it. “I never her community, from organ- looked back after that,” she ising concerts for the local says. schools to organising events to Since then Roos has become raise funds for breast cancer. the co-founder of Internation- Her main passion however al Community Dynamics, a lies with human rights and the not-for-profit organisation challenges faced by migrants. dedicated to supporting It was after running a radio refugees, asylum seekers and programme called The New migrants, and is the founder In the course of her work, Rebels on the online station of Recruit Refugees Ireland, a Roos has heard many distress- Irish Radio International, recruitment social enterprise ing stories, made all the more upsetting by the lack of aware- where she learned about the assisting refugees and asylum willing to help, they are simply Ireland without a car and some ic migrants, as some want to ness surrounding them. “There life experiences of migrants in seekers seeking employment. impeded by the lack of infor- of these centres are in very claim, they want to work and is a lot of ignorance around the Ireland, that Roos’ work with She is also an active member mation available. She explains: remote areas.” contribute to society. Not to go subject of migrants and asy- migrants, refugees and asylum of the Cork City Sanctuary “For example, the work permit The response to Recruit and celebrate, but very often lum seekers,” she says. “I have seekers began. Movement steering commit- for asylum seekers has never Refugees Ireland – a recruit- to send money home to their heard so many heart-breaking Around that time she tee, whose work is centred on been properly communicated ment social enterprise that children and spouses, who are stories of what some people remembers reading an article making Cork a place of wel- to employers, which causes a Roos counts as one of the often in hiding and waiting to have suffered, and if you then about direct provision centres come, support and safety for lot of confusion and inhibits projects she is most proud of – be brought to safety through read some of the comments written by Nasc in the Irish refugees. More recently, she job seekers in direct provision has been phenomenal. “Since family reunification which, underneath the articles online, Times. “My immediate reac- has been raising funds to buy centres from finding suitable we started the employment unfortunately, can take years.” it is very sad. People should tion was ‘not again’,” she says laptops for residents in direct work. Then there is the strange enterprise, we have had people Roos set up International get more informed.” referring to the Magdalene provision across Ireland as part rule that asylum seekers are signing up from all over the Community Dynamics with She believes that while most Laundries and the institu- of the Windows4Opportunity not allowed to drive. It is country,” she says. “Asylum Irish people are happy and tionalising of people. “I was campaign. very hard to get anywhere in seekers are not econom- Continued on next page... CNM Training Successful Practitioners CHANGE CAREER Train to become a…  Nutritional Therapist  Herbalist Attend a FREE  Acupuncturist Online Event  Homeopath  Health Coach  Natural Chef

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...Cont’d from previous page ALBANY Norbert Nkengurutse, a Another initiative Roos is “I believe a lot more needs to Burundian refugee, to offer involved with, The Cork City be done for the less fortunate, support to people living in of Sanctuary movement is like the homeless, those in direct provision centres and committed to making Cork a poverty and the migrants who refugees. The organisation place of welcome, support and want to make Ireland their SSkibbekibbereenreen supplies clothes, from a safety for refugees, asylum home,” she says passionately. second-hand shop run by seekers and migrants and “Having 13,000 charities is a Mary O’Donoghue in Bandon, persons of migrant origin. sign of what Ireland is like – a to people living in direct “We have supplied great help country of very good people provision. “We have also run to people seeking asylum and a government who is not workshops to prepare peo- during the lockdown period,” taking care of the vulnerable ple for life in an Irish home,” says Roos. “Currently, we are as they should. says Roos. “You can imagine reorganising, but hoping to “I hope the government’s that people coming from often get back in full action, making promise that direct provision very warm climates are not sure that Cork becomes a will end will come true and used to central heating and place where everyone can feel I also hope that the whole even to cooking in the house asylum system will change. on a gas cooker; these are People shouldn’t be in direct all things they need to get “I believe a lot more provision for five years; that familiar with together with fire needs to be done for the is inhumane. Children should safety in the home and how to less fortunate, like the not be there at all, as it is a set up an electricity account very toxic environment.” and so on.” homeless, those in pov- Roos would like to see an Citadel, World Music from erty and the migrants equal society where everyone Kinsale Road is another proj- who want to make in Ireland can thrive. “My We stock all of these paint brands! ect run by International Com- Ireland their home,” hope is that Recruit Refugees munity Dynamics, following Ireland will contribute to that. Little Greene, Farrow & Ball, Curator, Colourtrend, on from a campaign to collect “For me the most important Tikkurila, Dulux, Fleetwood, Albany & Jotun guitars for people living in thing in life is love,” she says Direct Provision. “I’m very at home and be safe.” passionately. “To take care of proud of this project. We went Roos is concerned about each other and to stand up for Delivering all over West Cork & Cork City! all the way to the National the rising amount of people what is wrong and needs to be CURTAINS • FABRICS • BLINDS • PAINTS • INTERIOR DESIGN Concert Hall in ,” says with racist views who want to made right.” HOME INTERIORS & DECORATIVE FURNITURE Roos. hamper progress in Ireland. Cork Rd, (next to Apple Green) 028 23162 • [email protected] • www.fusionhome.ie Opening Times: Mon - Fri 8am to 5.30pm | Sat 8am to 5pm Donal McCarthy recognised as a Community Hero at Mayor’s Awards he annual Mayor’s Com- Agricultural Show and mento- on wheels extended services munity Awards celebrate ring many community leaders, reaching Skibbereen, Balti- and acknowledge the as well as his involvement in more and and the Tvolunteers and communities numerous local initiatives. Fastnet Trails group, nominated Four who work together across Cork Community Group nomi- by Cllr Ross O’Connell, for the County. Now in its eighth year, nations for West Cork were; walking trails which started in the 2021 awards were held Skibbereen Geriatric Society 2015 with loop walks in Kilcoe Generations virtually on March 24. - Meals on Wheels Service, and Lisheen, later extended to Mayor of the County of Cork Fastnet Trails, and , and in as your local agent Cllr. Mary Linehan Foley pre- Community Meals – Dun- recent years four linear walks sented a total of eleven awards; manway Resource Centre and now connect Kilcoe to three from each division of the . The win- with further expansion plans. county, South, North and West ners were Skibbereen Geriatric Mayor Foley commended all Cork with one overall commu- Society, nominated by Cllr nominees on the night for their nity and voluntary group award Karen Coakley, for their meals commitment and dedication and one overall individual to their communities, “These award selected from these nine annual awards celebrate the divisional award winners. best of our county’s goodwill, Michael Con Ray Con In West Cork, the individ- generosity and altruism. It’s J O’Neill O’Neill O’Neill O’Neill ual Award nominees were an important opportunity to physiotherapist Darren Kelly acknowledge and celebrate of Dunmanway who raised the selfless work of volun- over €12,000 for charity, teers who’ve supported our Thinking of selling? Donal McCarthy, Secretary of communities, our vulnerable or Contact your trusted property advisor Clonakilty Agriculture Show, those impacted since Covid-19. Niamh O’Connell, fundraiser We celebrate too those who Clonakilty Tel: 023 883 3995 and founder of the Kinsale have committed their energy Covid-19 Volunteer Group and to long term projects that make Skibbereen Tel: 028 21404 Deirdre Fitzgerald, Chair of Cork County a better place to E-mail: [email protected] Bantry Project Group. The win- live, making real measurable ner of the West Cork individual difference to people’s lives. I award went to Donal McCarthy, congratulate you all on your sherryfi tz.ie nominated by Cllr John O’Sul- nominations.”

livan, for his work in Clonakilty Donal McCarthy PSRA No. 004158 4 April 2 – April 29, 2021

ourism Ireland has about the island of Ireland with Actor Liam teamed up with the Irish its millions of fans and followers Film and Television on social media. The aim is TAcademy (IFTA) to create a to keep Ireland ‘top of mind’ Cunningham speaks new series of short videos to with prospective international showcase Ireland. The latest visitors. This will ensure that video in the series, unveiled on we are in the best possible place of love for West Cork March 29, features actor Liam to immediately start converting Cunningham. business for Irish tourism opera- In the video, Liam speaks tors, when the time is right. in new tourism video about his love for Ireland and, Siobhan McManamy, Tour- in particular, for West Cork. ism Ireland’s Director of Mar- Viewers will see our spectacular kets, said: “Tourism Ireland was scenery and some of our top delighted to work with the Irish places, the Kingdom – Kerry, film; our wonderful actors, attractions, like Galley Head Film and Television Academy, it’s heaven on earth – and beau- filmmakers and spectacular Lighthouse, , and with Liam Cunningham, to tiful West Cork. If they weren’t filming locations. The Academy Sunday’s Well, , Clon- create this wonderful video. We on the planet, the place probably is proud to help showcase our akilty, , Gougane are sharing the video with our (Photo: CÓS) wouldn’t be worth being in. beautiful country to the world.” Barra, and Bantry millions of fans and followers What I love about Ireland is a To date, Tourism Ireland’s House. on social media around the Ahamilla, Clonakilty, Co Cork no-brainer, it’s the people. When #FillYourHeartWithIreland The video will be shared with world – allowing us to keep the I’m away I miss … bizarrely, I campaign has achieved excellent Tourism Ireland’s millions of beauty of Ireland and Cork to miss the rain – is that weird?” engagement with its fans and fans and followers on its social the fore. While we may not be Áine Moriarty, CEO of IFTA, followers on social media – de- platforms. able to travel just now, this vid- said: “IFTA is delighted to livering 1.93 billion impressions This video is part of Tourism eo will inspire people for their partner with Tourism Ireland to (or opportunities to see), 56 Ireland’s #FillYourHeartWith- future visit.” showcase the beauty of the Irish million video views and around Ireland (#FYHWI) online In the video, Liam Cunning- landscape alongside the voices 9.4 million engagements on campaign. At a time when in- ham praises Ireland, saying: and sentiments of our leading Facebook, as well as 8.6 million ternational visitors cannot travel “My favourite place in Ireland? Irish Academy members such as likes on Instagram and 252,000 here, Tourism Ireland is rolling Well, there’s got to be more than Liam Cunningham. Ireland has engagements on Twitter. out its #FYHWI campaign – one, it’s a big place – or it’s a given so much to international sharing inspirational content little place with a big heart. Two New Skibbereen Heritage Trail Map launched A new heritage trail asset for Skibbereen, featuring videos and blogs feedback from users all over the world, some of whom will, hopefully, SUPPLIERS OF PREMIUM on sites of interest around the town, has been launched by Cork Coun- have opportunity to visit in person soon.” TIMBER PRODUCTS FOR ty Council. The ‘Skibbereen Heritage Map’ provides in-depth histor- Along with informative history of notable buildings, the map links THE OUTDOORS ical and heritage information on more than 60 local sites, researched to stories of historical characters who lived in Skibbereen, such as • Kids Play Equipment and compiled by Council-owned Skibbereen Heritage Centre. Walter Kindred who opened a sawmill in Ilen Street after returning Mayor of the County of Cork Cllr Mary Linehan Foley, congratulat- from a grand tour of India in a Rolls Royce. • Garden Furniture ed Skibbereen Heritage Centre on the map, saying, The Skibbereen Heritage Centre team plan to add to the heritage • Outdoor Timber Buildings “This is a fantastic asset for and provides a forum to map over time and are continuing to digitise further local burial share the history of Skibbereen with a global audience. The demand registers and create more video resources. The map is free to use and www.hennessyoutdoors.ie for online resources continues to grow and Skibbereen Heritage has available here www.skibbheritage.com. 086 2688392 been working hard to provide that content, from digitising burial regis- The website also offers ‘vintage videos’ of other sites around West [email protected] ters to making videos of local sites and now providing this informa- Cork, as well as graveyard and Famine videos and a range of other tive heritage map. Skibbereen Heritage Centre’s work receives great genealogy resources. News to lift the heart By Clonakilty meeting a EU representa- by General Secretary of the Amnesty Group tive and for human rights Communist Party of China Xi work, has been freed, Jinping, and, he was put on trial ‘NO FURTHER AC- and is very sick. She is a for subversion of state power TION IS REQUEST- campaigner against the defending political activists and ED. MANY THANKS death penalty and was victims of land seizures in De- TO ALL WHO SENT the spokeswoman for cember 2018. We told his story APPEAL’. When we find the Defenders of Human to journalists and he became these words printed across the Rights Centre in Iran – founded an Urgent Action, a Prisoner of weekly Urgent Action Appeals, by Nobel Peace laureate Shirin Conscience. our hearts can lift. They often Ebadi. She had no protection Nargea Mohammadi Briefly, but incomplete, we mean success or partial success even with this prestigious add that no child refugees are connection. Nasrin Soutedeh, held on Nauru any longer; on behalf of those we work for. prieved from his death sentence whom you may remember has 500,000 expressed outrage So this week we share the good in Southern Sudan. A massive been released conditionally. against family separation in news. There is so much that it 750,000 people took action in On October 2, 2020, five the US by endorsing the ‘I will not fit into this brief piece. our Write for Rights campaign. activists, who were charged Welcome Global Action’. Now Siberian shaman Aleksandr Human rights abuses in Chi- for “unauthorised gathering” President Biden is to allow mi- Gabyshev was released from na regularly make the headlines were granted a discharge, but grant families separated under psychiatric detention on July 22 focusing on the Uighur people, not amounting to acquittal Trump to reunite in the US; we in Russia after his defence team but there are many others who (DNAA), by the Ipoh Magis- took part in solidarity protests succeeded in their request for a languish in Chinese prisons. trate in Malaysia. The charges in Ireland calling for an end of psychological and psychiatric It is not often that we are as stemmed from the activists’ Direct Provision. Wang Quangzhang reuniting with his wife and son. examination on July 21. Alek- effective as we would like, but participation in a peaceful pick- To finish, Ruben Gonza- sandr Gabyshev was targeted Wang Quangzhang, a Chinese et on June 2, 2020 by a cleaning les, a Venezuelan trade union for his open criticism of the human rights lawyer impris- I want to thank deeply in my our hearts, for that great sup- services company. During leader targeted for fighting for authorities and spent more than oned in 2015, has been freed. heart and from all my family, port’.” No need for comment! the picket, they called out the worker’s rights, was arrested in two months arbitrarily deprived It was three years before his for the support I received from Monthly meetings are alleged unfair treatment of 2018. Despite lack of evidence from his freedom. family were told that he was all of Amnesty International. suspended due to Covid but union members and insufficient he was sentenced to six years. Narges Mohammadi, 48, a still alive. He was arrested as For me, it is an honour to thank contact Sue 023 8845056 or personal protective equipment He has been freed, and writes, wife and mother of two, im- part of the ‘709 crackdown’ on you and we want to tell you that Derry 028 33028 for any other for cleaners. “Reunited with my family after prisoned in Iran since 2015 for human rights lawyers instigated we have you in our minds, in information. Magai, aged 15, was re- 21 months deprived of freedom, April 2 – April 29, 2021 5 A fascinating memoir spanning countries and cultures iana Duff’s incredible Peace came and Diana memoir ‘Leaves from moved with her young family to the Fig Tree’ covers the Tanzania, to the hot, sweaty Dar Find your perfect sofa. Dworld of Anglo-Irish gentry: life es Salaam where she opened the in colonial Kenya, Tanganyika, first multiracial school in East and life at the height of Apart- Africa. After rubbing shoulders heid in South Africa. with ambassadors and govern- In Ireland, Diana – the grand- ment ministers, and of course daughter of the Lord of the their children, they moved Manor at Annes Grove – grew again, this time to South Africa up in a stately County Cork where she and her family fought home with world-renowned the repressive, hateful apartheid HAVE gardens. Raised conservatively regime at any opportunity. by her aloof grandparents, Di- In her lifetime, Diana has YOU SEEN ana says the one regret she has worked as a nurse, teacher, in life is not having the normal journalist, wife and mother and OUR NEW experiences of a teenager. “The even doubled as Grace Kelly. greatest excitement was the oc- “I would say that life is full of WEBSITE? casional point to point or a trip excitements,” she says. “Any You can also to the city,” she explains. The opportunity that comes that’s rest of Diana’s life however was exciting and different, one view our filled with exciting adventures. should take it with both hands.” new ranges on Her father remarried and, after Today, Diana is in her Q INSTAGRAM travelling to Africa at the age of nineties, lives in Johannesburg 17 to meet his young family, Di- near her family, buys and sells ana ended up staying. “I fell in semi-precious stones, speaks love with the magic of Africa: Kikuyu and writes several ✓ FURNITURE ✓ CARPETS Brookpark, It gets under your skin, as it’s a long letters – the old fashioned Dunmanway P47 VW95 pretty fascinating and beautiful way – every day. Her wit and ✓ FLOORING ✓ BEDDING 023 885 6666 place,” she explains. astonishing recollection are www.glentreefurniture.ie The young woman embarked undiminished. Her sense of Private appointments also available. on a nursing career and met her fair play has remained with her husband at the hospital where throughout and she continues to she was working. “He was in stand up for what is right. bed with tick fever and I used ‘Duff is a natural storyteller. Ludgate awarded €8,500 under to play chess on his chest. I was and the forest below where Her deadpan humour, ear for the engaged to somebody else at the there were gangs of Mau Mau vernacular and shrewd insight time but I fell in love with him.” fighters. Robin, my husband, into the history of Ireland and ESB’s Energy for Generation Fund During the Mau Mau uprising was a district officer, and he had Africa raise it above the genre he Ludgate was successful communication, and collabora- Rath National schools, one of the Diana slept with a pistol at her to go out if a gang moved into of misty-eyed nostalgia. It’s a in a recent application tion skills. Purposeful play and schools involved in the pro- bedside while her enigmatic the forest. Sometimes it would terrific read.’ – Michele Mag- with the ESB for the Ener- hands-on learning lend them- gramme said “the importance of cook was none other than a Mau be two or three in the morning wood, Sunday Times (South Tgy for Generation Fund. Ludgate selves to problem solving, which children being actively engaged Mau elder who administered and he would leave me at home Africa) was awarded €8,500. Dr Kieran helps build the resilience that in their learning through play so the hideous initiation rites. “I with a hand grenade and a pis- Collins Education and Innovation students will need as future em- they understand how to get along was really, really, frightened tol. Meanwhile I was unaware Published by Lime Tree Press, Manager with the Ludgate Hub, ployees, inventors, and lifelong with others, problem-solve and during the Mau Mau uprising,” having cosy little chats with our ‘Leaves from the Fig Tree’ by said ‘’We are delighted with the learners. Incorporating a playful think critically, is fundamentally recounts Diana. “We were in cook about rice pudding and Diana Duff retails at £12.95. successful outcome of the Energy approach to Science, Technology, important to their development. a very rural area on 12 acres such that he was a Mau Mau for Generation Fund application Engineering, Arts and Maths A programme like this gives and the money will be used in our (STEAM) projects, for example, the best possible start in life to with nothing except our house administrator.” Lego for Education programme, it leads to student collaborations children by helping them explore for the acquisition of iPads.The where they learn by doing and Science, Technology, Engineer- Lego kit has been kindly spon- connect concepts and content ing, Arts and Maths (STEAM) sored by Spearline. with real-world situations. and other subjects in new, fun and “During uncertain times, play “Developmentally appropriate, innovative ways that supple- is one of the most important hands-on learning through play ment and enhance their school ways for children to cope with has benefits across the curricu- education.” stress and anxiety. Play stimulates lum as students use a wide range After a year that involved a multiple brain networks, so it is of skills to solve problems. A global pandemic, school closures, particularly effective in develop- learning through play approach nationwide remote instruction, ing and maintaining those skills can also help drive academic protests for racial justice, the for both children and adults. outcomes. role of education has never been Building students’ resilience “Lego For Education is a more critical or more uncertain. through purposeful play is more groundbreaking education initia- When the dust settles from this crucial than ever. It helps with tive that is focused on developing year, what will education look social, emotional, physical, and the four Cs. We are delighted to like — and what should it aspire cognitive skill development. be partnering with the ESB on to? On March 18, Ludgate will “Additionally, it can enhance this unique initiative.” be hosting a 60 minute roundta- academic outcomes and be uti- The Ludgate Education ble discussion with Lord David lised in a variety of instructional programme will be delivered to Puttnam, Atticus Education, Prof. models in the classroom and at a cluster of 16 primary and three Maggie Cusack, President of home. Using purposeful play as secondary West Cork schools. Munster Technological Universi- an instructional strategy through This is an immersive playful ty, Prof. John O’Halloran, Interim structured or unstructured hands- programme of robotics, coding, President of UCC and Dr. Kieran on activities is a proven way to and creative skills for schools Collins. help students develop the four involving iPads and Lego. Register for free on eventbrite. Cs – critical thinking, creativity, Maura Collins, principal of www.ludgate.ie 6 April 2 – April 29, 2021 Suspended in lockdown limbo Letter from the Editor Welcome to the April edition of West Cork People,

With warmer weather, longer days and the promise that the vaccine holds, we live in hope of a time when Covid, lockdown and restric- tions are words not used in early day conversation. Level 5 has taken a huge toll on all of us but through individual and community efforts we have persevered and, if we can continue to keep the numbers down, Mary O’Brien there is hope of a good summer ahead in West Cork, a summer where Editor our hospitality and retail industries can open and increase their busi- ness with the help of the new Outdoor Dining Scheme and we can all enjoy the ‘place apart’ that we are so fortunate to have on our doorstep.

A Once the 5km restrictions lift in April, we will all be able to explore what West Cork has to offer. If you haven’t already, check out our WEST CORK website explorewestcork.ie, which covers from Kinsale to the three LIFE rugged westerly peninsulas reaching into the wild Atlantic. There are managing to get out there. You has not been so restrictive. hundreds of inlets, tiny coves, safe harbours and beaches just waiting Tina Pisco are made of stronger stuff than The Germans have a word: to be discovered. The best way to take in all that West Cork has to Sheila Mullins offer – its scenery, wildlife and history – is to walk it and explorewest- I. Impfneid. It means vaccine envy Creative Director I apologise for being so and I feel it every time a friend cork.ie has everything from short looped walks to multi-day national grumpy. It’s the result of being in the UK, or the US posts a way-marked trails or strolls through national parks and forests. Plan ere we go again. After suspended in this lockdown picture of them getting vacci- your days out now to have something to look forward to. a heart-lifting Paddy’s limbo for far too long. I wish nated. The Germans also have Inside this issue we have plenty of positive news and views to keep Day spent working the deadline for this column was a word for that fed up feeling: you going until then. We hear from Cork Person of the Month Roos Hin the garden in the sunshine, the first weekend of April and Coronamude, which translates Demol on the great work she is doing with asylum seekers and the gales are back. This time not the last weekend in March. as Corona tired. We are all refugees. In Politics, Kieran Doyle asks the question ‘Do you want a they’ve brought along some Not only is there a chance that coronamude. United Ireland?’. Fiona shares research showing that removing ani- hail, just to mix things up. the weather might be better, but I’ve developed various mal-based product from our diets would not solve the problem of the Spring is definitely here, but sit- we will finally know next week coping mechanisms over the last effect of greenhouse gas on climate change. Karen gives us a flavor of ting inside, as the rain pummels if we are to remain cloistered in year. I listen to playlists while Ronan Ryan the house, it might as well be Mexico and Sherna shares some excellent DIY beauty products while our 5km, or if some of the re- I work, which I would have we wait for our salons to open. We also have our ongoing Enterprising Sales Consultant November. Outside the buds are strictions will be lifted. The last never listened to before. They West Cork series, showcasing some of the innovative and inspiring starting to burst and the flowers few weeks have not been very are mostly jazz/bosa instru- businesses that shape the local economy. If you are a business based are showing off just how beau- West Cork People positive. The Covid numbers, mental mixes with names like in West Cork and would like to feature in this, please email mary@ tiful a hedgerow can be. I see Old Town Hall, though moving downwards, are ‘Amsterdam coffee shop’, or westcorkpeople.ie. them as I drive past in my car, still high. The vaccine rollout ‘NYC cocktail lounge’. Along McCurtain Hill, the heating on full force and the is more of a slow treacle pace, with the music are sounds of For this and lots more, see inside. Clonakilty, Co. Cork. windshield wipers beating dou- than the sprint to immunisation I expresso machines, cutlery, and www.westcorkpeople.ie ble time. Though the weather was hoping for back in January. people chatting. I find them very I hope you enjoy the read. is foul, I pass many hardy souls Last week the government was soothing. As I write this, I am Contributors out for their lockdown walk. I warning us not to get our hopes listening to a playlist entitled Until next month, Kate Arbon have never seen so many people up. Today they are saying they ‘Songs for imagining your Pari- walking these country roads. might lift the 5km restriction, sian Life’, which is odd because Mary Karen Austin Old and young, they are out in but then again, they might not. I have never wanted to live in Hannah Dare all sorts of weather. I am not It’s not that I’ve given up hope. Paris. As for pandemic insom- Tina Pisco one of them. After what feels I’m just taking a zen, grin and nia: one Zirtex and an episode of like a lifetime in lockdown, I it approach until things Ru Paul’s Drag Race and I sleep Louise O’Dwyer am like a stubborn toddler when become clearer. I’m just not like a baby. Go figure. Letter to Editor John Hosford it comes to going outside and very good at it – hence the I had a look at my column Sean Creedon from one year ago, during doing something healthy. If I grumpiness. A Chara, can’t go to the beach then I’m Though frustrated, I’ll admit the first lockdown and was Tania Presutti that my frustrations are few surprised to see that not much not going anywhere. I will not My name is Kevin Whelan from Nenagh Co Tipperary and I Noah Chase compared to many others stuck has changed: ‘I wish I could go outside unless the tempera- am seeking help in tracing relatives of mine who came from the Shane Daly in lockdown limbo. That only get in my car and drive far, ture is in the two-digit range. I Clonakilty area. adds to the guilt of not going out far away. I miss my friends. I Pauline Murphy will not brave the weather, to go My grandmother was Norah O’Leary born c1883. Her father’s for walks, or not doing yoga. I miss the ocean. I miss the pub. Kieran Doyle trudging along the muddy roads name was Lawrence and he was a labourer. Mother Ellen..I have feel guilty for feeling so fed up. I miss gigs. I miss Brussels and overflowing ditches. I will some anecdotal evidence of Norah being from Peddler’s Cross Sherna Malone That and envy. I feel envy for and Madrid, Thessaloniki and stay inside, until my legs wither near Clonalkily. I found a family living in Desertserges who were those who live in sunnier climes. London. I miss places that I Tommy Moyles away, and my bone density is I believe publicans. They had a daughter Norah who was in either I feel envy for those who live in have never been to. I am scared Jean Perry that of a 90-year-old woman. I the Church records of Enniskeane or Desertserges but no mention countries where the lockdown to look forward to the summer. commend anyone who is still of her in the 1901 census. Fiona Hayes Will we be able to go back to The 1911 census shows that Norah worked for solicitor Henry Grace O’Sullivan MEP the beach? I think I could fare Francis Powell in Castle St Nenagh. Norah was the youngest in better if I could just go to the Rosari Kingston her family. She had two brothers, both bachelor’s, John and Bar- beach again. When will be able Dr Jeff Featherstone tholomew. Both died in their 40s and 50s. She also had a brother to meet up with friends – even at Pat Culhane a distance?’ Cornelious. It may be that Henry Powell’s wife, who was a Marga- West Cork The gale is howling around ret Geraghty, may have been from the Clonakilty area and brought Paul Lordan Supported Employment Agency the house. The rain is battering Norah to Nenagh to work as a house maid. April Danaan Norah married a James Whelan (my grandfather) who tragically the windows like an automatic Eugene Daly Are you looking for work? machine gun. The dogs took one died of the Spanish flu in 1918 thus leaving her a window with two young children, James and John (my late father). Unfortunately, James Waller You may be eligible for this service. look outside and went straight back to bed. Eartha Kitt is sing- Norah contracted TB and died in Nenagh workhouse in 1922. Liz O’Mahony Please contact your local office ing ‘C’est si bon’ on my playlist. I would be most grateful if any of your readers would know for more information I close my eyes and take a deep more about the O’Leary’s or if there are any relatives still living in Bantry (Head Office) breath. It’s going to get better; the Clonakilty area. All help will be dreadfully received. 086 8126324 and 086 8079953 Thank you to the West Cork People for giving me the time and Advertisers Please Note: West Cork People does of course, it’s going to get better. not accept liability for any loss or damage caused 086 8158786 space in your esteemed newspaper to enable my search for rela- by any error or inaccuracy in the printing of any Skibbereen Next week is Easter, and who advertisement. We reserve the right to refuse or 086 8101795 knows? The sun will shine. The tives in the beautiful West Cork area. amend any advertisement, notwithstanding where, Bandon when or by whom accepted for publication, more- Kinsale 086 6007964 temperatures will rise and the re- over we reserve the right to discontinue with the Is mise. publication of any advertisement previously pub- Clonakilty 086 8395058 and 086 6031335 strictions will be lifted to at least lished. Please note further that we cannot accept Kevin Whelan responsibility for one or more incorrect insertion 20km, which means that I can and that no re-publication will be granted in the 0861247945 case of typographical or minor changes which do go to the beach again. Here’s not detract from the value of the advertisements. hoping… [email protected] West Cork People April 2 – April 29, 2021 7 Global Shares shortlisted Lombard calls for revision of private water supplies grants in Cork Business ork Senator Tim usually insufficient to cover the Lombard has said that treatment works required – typically Association awards grants for private water consisting of the installation of Csupplies need to be revised as to filtration and/or UV treatment. Clonakilty’s finest interiors store “I am supporting the suggestion lobal Shares has been entrants this year. The judges reflect the true cost of installa- of my colleague, Senator John shortlisted as ‘Best include the Lord Mayor of tion. Cummins, that the scheme should LIVING & Professional Services’ Cork Cllr Joe Kavanagh, Varying levels of grants are be restructured. DINING available under the Rural Water Gfinalists in the 64th annual Seamus Heaney Head of Visit “Instead of a household being BEDS & Programme to carry out works to a Cork Business Association Cork, Alan Healy editor of able to apply for €3,000 for works MATTRESSES private water supply – for sinking on an existing supply, or €5,000 for awards. The company now the Business Hub in the Irish a new well, rehabilitating an older a new well, or the €1,000 treatment needs public votes – which Examiner and five others. supply, or putting in treatment to grant, the scheme could provide ac- counts towards 40 per cent of Global Shares is shortlisted improve the water quality. cess to a combined figure of €7,000 the judging process – to help against Breakthrough Cancer “The level of grant available for for these works. CURTAINS it win! Research and B2B Signs & the treatment element of the scheme “This would enable a household- & BLINDS This award recognises ‘lead- Print. Voting is limited to one is often not sufficient to cover the er who incurs significant treatment costs involved, particularly in areas costs to have them covered in full ing professional services busi- entry per email and will end on where ground water is poor,” Sena- nesses that offer customised, April 5. The winners will be by having access to the unused part tor Lombard stated. of the grant for new or rehabilitated knowledge-based services to announced at a virtual ceremo- “Over one in ten Irish people wells. CARPETS, clients and demonstrate a com- ny on April 17. get their water from private water “The scheme is to be reviewed VINYLS & mitment to customer service supplies, and under the scheme an in June, and Minister , RUGS excellence’. To vote go to: cbaawards.ie/ applicant is entitled to apply for a with responsibility for this area, has Cork Business Association vote maximum of €1,000 for treatment confirmed this will be taken into received a record number of to improve water quality. consideration.” “The €1,000 grant level is Professional Design Service available by Trevor Perrott BA (HONS) Interior Achitecture & Design Clogheen Industrial Park, www.perrotts.ie Clonakilty. P85 W303 ‘The Young Fella’ documentary T: 023 8850855 M: 086 2420602 E: [email protected] Open Mon-Fri 9.30 - 6pm. Sat 10 - 5pm. uncovers the deeper story of Open through lunch. Michael Collins

uch has been said akilty the story of ‘The Young develops into a young man with about Michael Col- Fella’ is fittingly produced in an extraordinary and tragically lins’ life but the focus Collins’ hometown. short life ahead of him. Michael Mis nearly always on his later The documentary is centred Collins was just sixteen when years. Biographies of ‘The Big around a group of six secondary he left Clonakilty for London, Fella’ tend to dwell very little school students who go on a the same age as the students on the first two thirds of his life journey to discover the local who reflect on life now and and focus heavily on the revolu- history of Michael Collins. life then and help to get a sense tionary activity that dominated History is brought to life and of what life was like for ‘The his final decade. But what about Collins story is told through Young Fella’. his younger years? the students’ intrigue, as they The documentary will A new documentary, ‘The visit local sites, meet with local premiere on the Michael Collins Young Fella’, which will pre- historians and even sit the 1906 House Youtube channel at 8pm miere on April 16, explores the Civil Service Exam that Collins on Friday April 16, 2021. This key events and influences of his passed. They learn about his will coincide with the 100-year formative years and uncovers day-to-day life, his school life, anniversary of the burning of the deeper story of Michael his friends and family and what Michael Collins childhood Collins. Directed by Clonakilty influenced his early political home at Woodfield by members native Samuel Kingston (The beliefs. Collin’s teenage years of the Essex Regiment of the Brigade) and funded by Cork are put into perspective, as they British Army. County Council and Michael unveil the story of a normal, Collins House Museum, Clon- rural West Cork boy, as he 8 April 2 – April 29, 2021 Government needs to improve CE schemes in rural areas he Community Employ- to help people who are long- organisations benefit from the groups benefit from the labour on community groups during tants of offshore islands, such as ment Scheme, or CE term unemployed to return additional help. of CE workers. I believe this is the pandemic who are having an exemption from the partic- scheme, is an invaluable to work by offering part-time Across West Cork, CE the type of Government policy difficulties finding replacement ipant duration limit, should be Tgovernment programme, but jobs within local communities. workers are vital. Without we should support. workers. The Department has expanded to peninsulas and oth- it is not without its flaws says Individuals gain experience, them, many rural services and I recently raised a number allowed for an extension of er remote areas, who experience South West Social Democrats develop skills, and build up organisations would be forced of matters to help improve CE the scheme during the Level similar conditions to islands. TD Holly Cairns. their confidence. Simultane- to close. Many different chari- schemes in rural areas with the 5 lockdown, but this needs to The Department has informed The CE scheme is designed ously, communities and local ties, sports clubs, and tidy town Minister of State at the Depart- be extended further. It does me that this would require ment of Rural and Community not make any sense to force a additional analysis, and I will be Development, Joe O’Brien TD. worker out of a role when there following up with them. Changes to the scheme and the is no one to replace them. The programme is incredible challenges of the pandemic Secondly, following requests value for money for the state. HOLLY CAIRNS TD have raised issues that need to from CE projects and sponsors, For almost 20 hours of work Cork South West be resolved. I have called on the Minister a week, participants get only Progress | Equality | Democracy | Sustainability Firstly, participants need to to reduce the qualifying period €22.50 more than their social be allowed to stay in the pro- from 12 months to six months welfare payment. The Gov- gramme for longer periods of unemployment. This would ernment needs to revisit this My constituency offices in Bandon time, especially those over 55, enable a whole cohort of people remuneration, which does not and Skibbereen are closed during the whose participation was limited to participate in the programme. reflect the work involved. The pandemic but please get in touch if under the previous government. There is no point in making cost of the programme is vastly there’s anything I can do to help you. Many individuals do good work people spend an additional six outweighed by its impact on and help their community but months unemployed rather than the ground and it needs greater have to leave their role because giving them the opportunity and flexibility to meet the needs of of changed conditions. I re- dignity of taking up meaningful workers and their communities. m 086 3615830 ceived figures from the Depart- work. This issue is even more You can find out more about k [email protected] ment that show that over 40 per relevant during the pandemic, CE at citizensinformation.ie. cent of the 8,000 people who when employment prospects Also, CE scheme vacancies are D @HollyCairnsTD exited CE schemes remained are bleak. advertised on JobsIreland.ie or E Holly Cairns TD unemployed. Thirdly, I am seeking that by contacting a case officer in This is also having an impact special conditions for inhabi- your local Intreo Centre.

Additional classrooms for Kinsale CS insale Community School has been successful in its application Daffodil Day raises incredible €6m for vital to build 10 additional classrooms and toilet facilities. Congratulating the school and principal Fergal McCarthy, KCork South West Deputy Christopher O’Sullivan said, “This is a school cancer services and research that keeps going from strength to strength. I attended the official open- n incredible €6m raised days leading up to Daffodil Day To meet increased demand of services. Lorraine, who shared ing of the school back in 2019 by president Michael D Higgins. I was on the ‘most important will allow for investment and terminally ill patients wishing Caoimhe’s story on the show, blown away by messages of inclusivity and wellbeing dotted around Daffodil Day ever’ will improvements in four key areas, to die at home, the Society will says that Caoimhe made her the school. Afund vital services for cancer pa- including: research, counselling, expand capacity in their Night make a promise months before “At the start of the pandemic the students showed so much inno- tients and life-changing research, Night Nursing, and childhood Nursing service and continue she died to talk about child- vation when they began producing face masks for front line workers the Irish Cancer Society has said. cancers. to recruit additional nurses hood cancer and advocate for using their 3d printers. The musical talent in this school is also incred- The Society has confirmed Due to increased demand for nationwide. nationwide support. She says; ible.” that support from the public mental health services during The Society is now able to “Caoimhe wanted childhood The funding to build the additional facilities was awarded through through the Late Late Show the pandemic, funds raised will also increase its support and and teenage cancers spoken the Department of Education’s Emergency Works and Additional on Friday, March 26 and in the allow expansion of the Society’s services for families impacted by about. Her wish before she died Accommodation schemes. Counselling Service. An extend- childhood and adolescent can- was that there would be proper ed local counselling fund will cers. Counselling, peer-support, adolescent services for teens and ensure cancer support centres advocacy, survivorship research children so they were not for- nationwide can support more and supports, are all areas that gotten. The incredible donations people affected by cancer in their will be expanded, thanks to the raised through Daffodil Day will community. funding from Late Late Show allow the Irish Cancer Society to The generous support shown viewers. do this for our kids”. by the Irish public will also Lorraine Alcock, Mum of If you or anyone you know allow the Society to fund more Caoimhe who died from Ewing has concerns or questions about life-changing cancer research Sarcoma, aged 19, is delighted cancer, contact the Irish Cancer with a pledge to significantly that additional funding will Society Support Line on Free- increase their support to Cancer go towards childhood and phone: 1800 200 700. Trials Ireland. adolescent cancer supports and Inchydoney hotel takes the lead with regular Covid Antigen testing

nchydoney Island Lodge and the roll out of the vaccine across interaction with customers. Spa have taken the lead in our staff, but we can take steps to “We’ve already had a great ensuring its full-time lock- protect them and our customers reaction to the testing from staff, rendan Hayes, Bantry, has recently been assist anyone who requires my assistance in mat- Idown staff are feeling protected now and when things do open as everyone feels more protected appointed Commissioner for Oaths by ters pertaining to the role. I have strived to help in the pandemic. Staff at the up further, and hopefully in the while they are coming into work Chief Justice Frank Clarke. Brendan has my community in every way for many years now hotel are being regularly tested not too distant future,” said Des with others. I feel it’s the right Bheld the position of Peace Commissioner for a and feel privileged in doing so” for Covid-19 using Covid Rapid O’Dowd owner of Inchydoney thing to do. I would view it as a number of years now upon being appointed by His father Michael (pictured left), having held Antigen testing equipment. Island Lodge and Spa. great tool, like mask wearing and then Minister for Justice . the role for many years, stated “I’m very proud of Since January, the hotel have The resort continues to em- social distancing, to help us keep He joins his father Michael Hayes from Brendan, he has always been incredibly motivat- invested €4,000 in PPE and ploy 50 staff full time, some of people as safe as possible we Dunmanway, who also undertakes both roles, and ed in everything he does and I’m confident he’ll testing equipment and commit those are working in admin roles would plan to continue this when together they are available to assist people east make an excellent commissioner.” to continue this regime as hos- and others operating a takeaway we reopen to ensure the safety and west and all over Cork county. Brendan can be contacted on 087/3505729 pitality opens up and those who food offerings from the hotel, as of all employees coming back to Mr Hayes said “It’s a wonderful honour to be or [email protected]. have not yet received the vaccine well as the Silver Surfer mobile work,” said Des. appointed to a position that holds such significant return to work. takeaway unit outside the hotel responsibility and I’m very happy and willing to “We can’t control the speed of which means they have some April 2 – April 29, 2021 9

Are you dreaming of making your nest bigger, brighter or warmer? Well the answer might be just around the corner!

ENQUIRE ONLINE OR IN PERSON TODAY Pop in: Bantry or office Phone: 027 50535 Email: [email protected] Visit: bantrycu.ie

Loans are subject to approval. Terms and conditions apply. If you do not meet the repayments on your loan, your account will go into arrears. This may affect your credit rating which may limit your ability to access credit in the future. Bantry Credit Union Limited is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland. IMAGINE MORE 10 April 2 – April 29, 2021 Tax is a hot topic this month for CIS he Citizens Information are paid. credits. The adjusted tax credits does not prevent anyone from tal assistance and advice. Even Service is currently This new process ensures and rate band are applied on a choosing the options of separate though due to Covid-19, our receiving lots of call tax is collected on the payment week one basis and any revisions assessment or separate treatment. drop-in services are not currently Tand email queries regarding the at the right time and limits any are shown on the employee’s Tax All updates to civil status’ and available, the offices are still CPUP (Covid-19 Pandemic Un- additional liabilities at the end of Credit Certificate. In most cases, requesting joint assessment can staffed and we are busy assisting employment Payment) and Tax the year. The Department of So- there will be no additional tax be recorded through the ‘Manage callers and giving them the tools Credits and in particular Joint cial Protection informs Revenue liability at the end of 2021. My Record’ in ‘MyAccount’ on to make informed decisions and Assessment. The biggest concern on a weekly basis the amount of the Revenue’s website. help them to explore options and people are having is how CPUP taxable PUP paid to each person Joint Assessment Anne O’Donovan, West solutions to any issues they may received in 2021 is taxed. In and the tax due is collected by Some may be taxed under Cork’s Citizens Information have.” contrast to last year, PUP is now reducing the person’s tax credit Joint Assessment, which can Manager, stated, “This month For anyone needing in- taxable in real-time during 2021 and rate band. In some cases, be of benefit to most couples. has been very busy with queries formation, advice or have an meaning you are taxed as you this may affect your spouse’s tax Under Joint Assessment, you about the new process of taxa- advocacy issue, they can call are chargeable for tax on your tion on the Covid-19 Pandemic a member of the local Citizens combined total income. This Unemployment Payment. If Information team in West Cork and 10am to 4pm on Friday. option is applied when someone anyone requires information on 0761 07 8390, they will be Alternatively, you can email on notifies the Revenue that they are or advice around this issue, happy to assist and make an [email protected] or log on to married or in a civil partner- they can contact us in complete appointment if necessary. The www.citizensinformation.ie for ship. It’s important to note that confidence, we provide free, offices are staffed from Monday further information and contact the Joint Assessment option independent, and non-judgmen- to Thursday from 10am to 5pm, details.

KNOW YOUR RIGHTS

ify for a means-tested Carer’s mining the individual’s right to must: Benefits Allowance. If you get Carer’s dignity at work. • Take reasonable steps to pre- for carers Allowance, you may be entitled Bullying can take many differ- vent bullying in the workplace to a Free Travel Pass. If you live ent forms such as: • Have an anti-bullying policy I need to take time out from with the person you are caring • Social exclusion and isolation for dealing with complaints of work to care for my father. for, you may also qualify for the • Verbal abuse and insults bullying What supports are available Household Benefits Package. • Being treated less favourably • Develop the anti-bullying for people in my situation? There is also an annual than colleagues in similar roles policy in consultation with There are several supports Carer’s Support Grant which is • Belittling a person’s opinion employees available to you. To qualify for paid to full-time carers in June • Spreading malicious rumours, • Prepare a Safety Statement these supports, the person you each year. From June 2021, the gossip or innuendo based on an assessment of the are caring for (your father) must grant will increase from €1700 • Intrusion – pestering, spying or risk of bullying need full-time care and attention. to €1850. Even if you are not stalking A summary of your em- If you are working at present getting any other social welfare • Intimidation and aggressive ployer’s anti-bullying policy and want to take time off to care payment, you can qualify for this interactions should be displayed within your for your father, you may be eli- grant if you meet the conditions. • Excessive monitoring of work workplace. gible for carer’s leave of up to 2 You can find more informa- • Withholding information need- The new code sets out a de- years. You must have worked for tion about support for carers ed for the person to perform tailed procedure for dealing with your employer for a continuous by contacting Bantry Citizens their job properly informal and formal complaints. period of 12 months to qualify Information Centre and an In- • Repeatedly manipulating a per- You can read more about how to for this leave. formation Officer will make you son’s job contents and targets make a complaint on citizensin- Your employer does not pay aware of all your options. • Blaming a person for things formation.ie or contact your lo- you while you are on carer’s beyond their control cal Citizens Information Centre leave but you can get credited • Use of aggressive or obscene and an Information Officer will social insurance contributions to Bullying at work language talk you through the process maintain your PRSI record. I think I’m being bullied • Other menacing behavior You are entitled to annual by my boss at work. What Your employer has a duty of During COVID-19, you can find leave and public holidays for the exactly is bullying and what care for all their employees to comprehensive integrated infor- first 13 weeks of carer’s leave. protections do I have? prevent bullying. They also have mation online at citizensinforma- Your employer cannot dismiss responsibilities under the Health tion.ie/covid19/ and you can get Bullying is defined as repeated you or victimise you for exercis- and Safety at Work Act 2005 daily updates on what’s changed inappropriate behaviour direct ing your right to carer’s leave. (as amended) for the welfare of on Twitter at @citizensinfo. or indirect, whether verbal, You may also be able to get employees. You can also get information physical or otherwise, conducted Carer’s Benefit from the Depart- A new Code of Practice for and advice from Bantry Citizens by one or more persons against ment of Social Protection, if you Employers and Employees on Information Centre, which another or others, at the place have enough PRSI contributions the Prevention and Resolution provides a free and confidential of work and/or in the course of to qualify. of Bullying at Work came into service to the public. West Cork employment, which could be If you do not qualify for effect on 23 December 2020. helpline number is 0761 07 8390 reasonably regarded as under- Carer’s Benefit, you may qual- Under the Code your employer or email: [email protected]

We are here to support Scrap clock change – MEP Kelly urges renewed action eán Kelly MEP urged the EU to renew its effort to scrap The MEP pointed to studies which have shown that you in West Cork the bi-annual clock change, ahead of last weekend’s time the disruption caused by the clock change has a detrimental im- change when the clocks went forward by one hour. pact on our health. It can lead to weakened immunity and sleeping Phone Bantry Mon- Fri, 9-5pm on 0761 07 8390 SAs Ireland’s only Member of the European Parliament’s patterns and in some cases, increased anxiety and depression. It Providing you with free and confidential information, Working Group on the bi-annual Clock Change, Mr. Kelly has can also impact tiredness in drivers, increasing the risk of acci- advice and advocacy on been campaigning for the best part of a decade to scrap Daylight dents. • SOCIAL WELFARE • EMPLOYMENT RIGHTS Savings Time. “Brexit and of course the COVID-19 pandemic have led to a • HOUSING • FAMILY MATTERS Speaking from the Parliament in Brussels, Kelly dismissed pause in plans to tackle this issue, but we need to look forward • HEALTH • INCOME SUPPORT claims that the plan to end Daylight Savings Time could not and a renewed discussion is needed at EU level on this. I urge the proceed due to Brexit: “84 percent of EU citizens overwhelmingly Commission to reignite the debate with EU leaders in order to [email protected] supported the proposal to abolish the biannual clock change, in progress it and I will continue to lobby for that at EU level and in National phone line 0761 07 4000 9am-8pm, Mon-Fri a 2018 EU-wide public consultation. In fact, 4.6 million citizens talks with the Commission.” responded to the survey showing how strongly our citizens feel Kelly added that the UK is likely to follow the other 27 Mem- citizensinformation.ie about this outdated practice. This is an issue of great interest to ber States in scrapping the bi-annual clock change should they Funded and supported by the Citizens Information Board Irish people too”, Kelly said. proceed, in his view. April 2 – April 29, 2021 11

Rescue centre calls for ban on tethering CHRISTOPHER Kelly Mellerick, one My Lovely Horse Rescue team. O’SULLIVAN T.D. “A tethered horse should be of the volunteers who ideally checked two or three helps run the My times a day and that’s not If I can be of any Lovely Horse Rescue happening. The sickening thing assistance to you (MLHR) Cork centre, about Lady Jane is that she please do not hesitate was tethered in the middle of a to get in contact. talks to West Cork 20-acre field, without shelter, People about why the exposed to the elements. She CONSTITUENCY couldn’t do anything to save OFFICE: charity is calling for a herself and her injuries were ban on animal tethering. horrific. 40 Ashe Street, “A horse can drink up to 50 ased in , on the litres a day and these owners are Clonakilty. family farm of Jeannette just leaving them there without (Closed to the public until O’Connell, My Lovely sufficient drinking water or food Covid-19 restrictions are BHorse Rescue centre is currently and unable to defend them- lifted) home to around 30 equines. A selves from animal or human number of other horses rescued because they are tethered. It’s by the charity are fostered out to just wrong on every level,” she homes in Cork and Kerry. says passionately. We have an Kelly, a full-time property over-supply of horses in Ireland manager, started fostering with indiscriminate breeding. horses seven years ago. “Over There isn’t enough resources for the last 15 years or so I’ve successful enforcement of the become very aware of the current licencing laws and this equine crisis throughout Ireland needs to change.” k [email protected] and particularly in my own area Kelly is appealing to anyone in Cork City and County,” she in the West Cork area with the m 023 8811011 explains. After attending a semi- land and inclination to foster nar that highlighted the plight a horse. “West Cork is very of urban horses, Kelly’s interest supportive of us and we already and awareness increased and, have a number of people foster- in October 2018 the My Lovely ing horses in the area,” she says. the full support of the My Love- For more information or to Horse farm was set up when “We recommend one acre per ly Horse team behind them and make a donation go to www. Jeanette O’Connell donated a horse but we do a home check veterinary charges and so on are mylovelyhorserescue.com seven-acre farm, along with 22 and give support and advice.” all covered by the charity. acres of land donated by Louisa Anyone fostering a horse has Heckett in Cobh to My Lovely Horse Rescue. “We’re very lucky that our team has grown and we now have a 12-strong volunteer group in the Cork centre,” she “Worms can cause serious for ‘Lady Jane’, who had to be says. “Everyone pulls their blockages in the gut, causing put to sleep two days after being weight and it’s only because colic, and death, if not treated in rescued. of the number of volunteers time,” explains Kelly. “We want a ban on teth- we have that we can house the “Tethering is not illegal and ering; we’ve had too many QQI DAY COURSES COMMENCING SEPTEMBER 2021 number of horses we have.” doesn’t get sufficient cover- cases of hurt horses come our Fundraising activities have age in the Animal Health and way because of it. There is no been severely impacted by the Welfare Act,” she says. The reason that any animal should QQI LEVEL 5 ✪ NEW Courses! pandemic so the charity has had My Lovely Horse Rescue team be tethered. At the end of the to rely on public donations to had to deal with a horrific case day it goes against the ‘five GAIN NEW Art SUPPORTIVE keep it going. involving a tethered cob pony in freedoms’ that an animal should SKILLS OR LEARNING UPDATE ENVIRONMENT “It doesn’t take a lot to look March. “We were called out to a be granted.” Under the Animal ✪ Business Administration with Online Solutions EXISTING little cob pony that was tied in a after an animal properly,” says Welfare Act 2013, people are ONES ✪ Creative Innovation & Digital Media Kelly passionately. “When it 20-acre field.” The horse, which obliged to provide the ‘five ✪ Early Learning & Care comes to the urban horse, our the volunteers named ‘Lady freedoms’ to animals under their biggest concern is that they are Jane’ had become so tightly care: freedom from hunger and Hairdressing & Beauty MAKE A NEW START being tethered in unsuitable bound up in her rope for a week thirst, freedom from discom- LOCAL Healthcare sites and injuring themselves as or more, that the rope had cut fort (by providing adequate TRANSPORT Health & Wellbeing a result. In some cases, they are through three of her legs. “She living conditions), freedom LINKS FOR Horticulture even being taunted and abused was cut so badly on one of her from pain, injury and disease, STUDENTS EMPLOYER by kids. forelegs that the cannon bone freedom to express normal Legal Administration LINKS “Horses are flight animals was exposed,” says Kelly. behaviour, and freedom from Medical Administration and get scared easily, by loud The little pony was saturated fear and distress. “‘Lady Jane’ PATH TO in bog mud and suffering from Psychology & Social Studies noise or quick movement and was denied every one of those FURTHER COURSES their instinct is to run, which is hypothermia when spotted by freedoms,” says Kelly. The Act STUDY OR Sports & Recreation RELEVANT TO impossible if they’re tethered,” a man out walking his dog. “It isn’t sufficiently covering those THAT LOCAL JOB OPPORTUNITIES says Kelly. took seven of us to get her up freedoms. We come across so IDEAL JOB ✪ NEW Course! They are also grazing animals out of the bog and back to the many animals that have choked QQI LEVEL 6 and need a constant supply Rescue,” says Kelly. “I’ve never to death, severed through tissue ✪ Advanced Psychosocial Awareness Training of grass, which at this time of felt a horse so cold.” to the bone or suffered perma- year doesn’t provide enough “Obviously whoever tied nent damage to ligaments or nutrition and needs to be sup- her up and left her there, tendons. It’s just crazy that there http://westcorkcampus.corkcollegeofcommerce.ie/ plemented by hay. Some of the walked away and never looked isn’t an all-out ban on any kind Online Applications can be made through the website lands that horses are kept on in back,” she says. “We found no of tethering.” For more information please contact us. urban areas don’t provide ade- evidence of buckets for water Kelly’s advice to the public Telephone: 028-21644 Coordinator: Máire O’Sullivan quate foraging and they should and the area she was confined to on seeing a tethered animal is always be subsidised with hay.” with the rope was pure muck. It to report it to the ISPCA or the [email protected] or [email protected] Worming or rather lack of was heart-breaking to see.” Department of Agriculture who it is also an issue for horses. Unfortunately it was too late then, if necessary, liaise with the West Cork Campus of the Cork College of Commerce @westcorkcampus 12 April 2 – April 29, 2021 The story of Cynthia Ann Parker also known to be kind, to certain was traditional for chieftains to fell off his horse, he was still people they have captured. So Cynthia Ann have several wives. They had alive and refused to surrender. much so, that often the POWS Parker and three children Quanah, Pecos Ross’ cook, Antonio Martinez, would rather stay with the tribe her daughter, (Pecan) and Topsannah (Prairie identified the man as Nocona than return to their previous Topsannah Flower), Quanah later became a and killed him. Cynthia Ann and family or life: Often marrying a Comanche chief, which was an her daughter Prairie Flower were Comanche Indian, having chil- (Prairie Flower), incredibly difficult distinction to captured. Cynthia Ann had spent dren and staying with the tribe in 1861 achieve. He became one of the twenty-four years living as a for the remainder or for most of most feared Comanche warriors Comanche before being unwill- their lives. One such detainee in history and his story is incred- ingly reunited with her Anglo was Cynthia Ann Parker. She is ible in its own right. family. Cynthia Ann never fully THE HISTORY commonly known as the most This practice of adopting reintegrated into white society. famous POW in history. Cynthia captured children was quite Parker’s return to her birth & POLITICS Ann Parker had blonde hair and common among the Plains Indi- family captured the country’s CORNER blue eyes and was nine-years-old ans, as low birth rates combined imagination. In 1861, the Texas when she was captured by the with the hard nomadic lifestyle legislature granted her a league, Shane Daly Comanche Indians in a raid on resulted in dwindling numbers which is rough 4,500 acres of her home. in several of the bands. Some of land and an annual pension of Shane Daly is a History The historian TR Fehrenbach, the captive children, like John $100 for the next five years. Graduate from University author of ‘Comanche: The Histo- and James Parker, lived with the Her son Pecos died of small- College Cork, with a BAM ry of a People’, tells of a raid on Indians for several months or pox and her daughter Topsan- in History and an MA in Irish an early settler family called the years before eventually being nah died of pneumonia. This Parkers, who with other families killed or ransomed back to white increased her longing to return to History. had set up a stockade known as society. In December 1860, after her tribe to be with her surviving Fort Parker. In 1836, 100 mount- years of searching at the behest son Quanah. Cynthia tried to the ground, he was scalped and four small children. But the ed Comanche warriors appeared of Parker’s father and various escape several times to return his genitals ripped off. Then he Comanche overtook them near “Parker never fully reintegrat- outside the fort’s walls, one of scouts, Texas Rangers led by to her Comanche tribe but was was killed. Granny Parker was the river. They threw her and the ed and repeatedly asked to be them waving a white flag to trick Lawrence Sullivan Ross discov- recaptured by the Texas Ranger stripped and fixed to the earth four children over their horses to allowed to return to her sons and the Parkers. ered a band of Comanche, deep and returned to her new resi- with a lance driven through her take them as captives.’ husband, but her requests were ‘Benjamin Parker went out- in the heart of Comancheria, that dence. In defiance of being re- flesh. Several warriors raped Cynthia Ann Parker was denied.” – Treva Elaine Hodges side the gate to parley with the was rumored to hold American turned and in a last ditch attempt her.’ soon integrated into the tribe. Comanche,’ he says. ‘The people captives. In a surprise raid, the for her desire to be returned to Contemporary accounts Her Comanche name Naduah, s mentioned in last inside the fort saw the riders small band of Rangers attacked be taken seriously, she went on also describe them staking out translates as ‘someone found’ month’s column the suddenly surround him and drive a group of Comanches in the hunger strike. She died in March male captives spread-eagled in Uto-Aztecan the Comanche Comanche Indians their lances into him. Then with Battle of Pease River. 1871; she was forty-three years and naked over a red-ant bed. language. She was adopted by Aare widely regarded as being loud whoops, mounted warriors After limited fighting, the old. She is buried in Oklahoma. Sometimes this was done after a Tenowish Comanche couple, one of the most violent groups dashed for the gate. Silas Parker Comanche attempted to flee. Next month’s column will removing the victim’s private who raised her as their own of people in history, scalping was cut down before he could Ranger Ross and several of his focus on the Texas Rangers parts, putting them in his mouth daughter. She forgot her original people they had captured, cutting bar their entry; horsemen poured men pursued the man who had organisation that was formed and then sewing his lips together. ways and became Comanche in their throats and torturing them inside the walls.’ appeared as the leader, and who because of the Comanche Indi- One band of Comanche sewed every sense. She married Peta for weeks was all part of the Survivors described the was fleeing alongside a woman ans and were the same force that up captives in un-tanned leather Nocona, a chieftain. Peta had modus operandi of the tribe. One slaughter: ‘The two Frosts, fa- rider. As Ross and his men found and returned Cynthia Ann and left them out in the sun. The actually taken part in the raid on particularly gruesome technique ther and son, died in front of the neared, she held a child over her Parker to her original family green rawhide would slowly fort Parker the day Cynthia was was to tie a detainee to a poll and women; Elder John Parker, his head. The men did not shoot, but that she lived with prior to being shrink and squeeze the prisoner captured. They enjoyed a happy face him or her towards the sun, wife ‘Granny’ and others tried to instead surrounded and stopped captured, as well as killing her to death. marriage and, as a tribute to his then remove their eyelids so the flee. The warriors scattered and her. Ross continued to follow husband Peta Nocona. ‘Silas Parker’s wife Lucy great affection to her, he never sun would burn them to blind- rode them down. the chief, eventually shooting fled through the gate with her took another wife, although it ness. Paradoxically, they are ‘John Parker was pinned to him three times. Although he The return of the Swallow kimming low over our forehead, chin and throat, which Swallows are widely seen and homes, under our protection. fields and lakes in pursuit the martin hasn’t. Swallows nest celebrated as heralds of summer In places there is a saying that the living and in Russian and of insects, the swallow mainly in old barns or outhous- with its promise of warmth swallows are consecrated to the Eskimo mythology they are the Sis a familiar and welcome es, always inside, returning to and fertility to the cold winter Mother of God; one saying goes, spirits of dead children. sight. Its confiding nature and the same nest year after year. landscape. In parts of Germany, ‘The swallow and the swift are In recent years the number of its habit of building a nest so Martins build their nests outside, it was the custom for the head God’s precious gift’. swallows, like many other birds, close to our homes endears under the eaves of houses. of the family to ceremoniously In Eastern Europe and Asia, seem to have decreased. The use it to everybody. We eagerly Modern buildings, with smooth open the doors of barns and swallows are traditionally the of pesticides has also banished await the return of the swallow plaster and sealed doors, are sheds on the day the swallows birds that brought fire from their insect food from the fields. each spring and its departure in not suitable nesting sites for the returned, to show them that their the gods to humans, losing Nest sites on modern large FACT autumn is sad – a reminder of swallow or the martin. The old nests were awaiting them. their middle tail feathers in the farms are also scarce because the dark days of winter. In Latin barns always had room for entry There are many Christian process. In Western Europe, the old brick or stone outbuildings & FOLKLORE the swallow’s name is ‘hirundo for the swallow; the smooth legends connected with the swallow is said to have fetched have been replaced with modern rustica rustica, rustica’ meaning walls of modern buildings are swallow. In the Garden of the fire, but the wren or the robin smooth constructions, which are Eugene Daly rural, of the countryside. The unsuitable for the martins, as Gethsemane, swallows tried to took it and brought it to earth. unsuitable for the attachment of name ‘swallow’ is a very old they need a rough surface to lead astray those coming to take In Japan gifts are offered to mud nests. A retired primary teacher, West one, derived probably from the attach their nests to. The Irish Christ. They are said to have the household gods on the day Hopefully, man will come to Cork native Eugene Daly has old English ‘swell’, meaning to name for the martin, ‘Gabhlán removed the crowns of thorns the swallows arrive to ensure his senses and we will not allow a lifelong interest in the Irish swirl, a reference to the bird’s Binne’ (forked one of the gable from Christ’s head on the cross, fertility in the family. In many the disappearance of the winged language and the islands (both swooping flight, or from the old of a house), is very appropriate. staining their throat and forehead places a swallow nesting in the creatures that share our world. his parents were islanders). Norse ‘swala’, meaning a cleft Humans have had a close red in doing so. Other legends house brought good luck; in A countryside without swallows He has published a number of stick, which refers to its tail. The relationship with swallows for have them removing the nails other places swallow nests were twittering in the farmyards local history books and is a Irish ‘fáinleog’ may come from thousands of years. Because they from Christ’s hands and feet, thought to protect buildings from and flying with such grace and regular contributor on folklore ‘fán’, meaning wandering or originally built their nests on wiping blood from his wounds, fire and lightning. Disturbing a beauty over the fields is a bleak to Ireland’s Own magazine. migrating. cliffs or in caves, they have read- consoling him with their song. swallow’s nest would bring bad prospect. Eugene’s fields of interest The swallow can easily be ily taken to using the artificial The swallow is clearly seen as luck and would make the cows’ Uniquely graceful, stream- span local history, folklore, confused with its cousin, the ‘rock faces’ of our houses and a ‘good’ bird, in God’s favour milk bloody or dry up altogeth- lined and masters of the air, Irish mythology, traditions and house martin. Quite similar in outbuildings as nest sites and and protected by him. As a er. In parts of Africa, swallows swallows and martins have a placenames. appearance, the swallow has a they have thereby infiltrated our reward for their help for Jesus, are considered to be sent by special place in folklore and longer forked tail and has a red language, customs and beliefs. they were allowed to nest in our the tribe’s ancestors to comfort human affection. April 2 – April 29, 2021 13 Do you want a United Ireland? and terror in one phrase was not Love it or loath it, the walls of Derry. From the wall a mere fanciful poetic conceit. you can see one of the Protes- That terrible beauty were the twelfth of July is a tant communities in the heart of grand ideals of a republic – cornerstone of Unionist a Catholic enclave. They have a beautiful for all what it wanted heritage and a united mural with the words: ‘Lon- to achieve – and terrible for it donderry West Bank Loyalist. ultimately resulted in – a di- Ireland would most Still under siege. No surrender’. HISTORY & vided nation. Within five years likely have to include Tricolours and Union Jacks of the Easter Rising, the world this in their calendar pockmark the region each POLITICS map was redrawn. It gave birth claiming a hierarchy of supe- to new nations and repackaged alongside Saint Pat- riority. How can you have a Kieran Doyle imperialistic land grabs. Some- rick’s Day and Easter united Ireland until the north is where in all that, a small little 1916. These may be united? Thirty years ago, the de- region called Northern Ireland mographics pointed to a future was created as a separate legal simple compromises for Catholic majority in the north. “No man has the entity, on May 3, 1921. And so, some, more painful for It’s nearly there now, but thirty right to fix the the debate continued that no one others and non-negotia- years on, Catholicism isn’t as has been able to answer since ble for more again. strong an indicator. Economics, boundary to the Yeats posed the question in that Brexit, the pandemic, European same poem: ‘Was it needless identity are now bigger factors. march of a nation,” death after all? For England For twenty-five years, an – Charles Stuart Parnell may keep faith.’ Would Ireland Unification would certainly open border and the decom- be united today if we had taken mean a change of flag, anthem missioning of the British army here was a time when the Home Rule path a hundred and possibly even parliament? from the north has eliminated that question would have years ago? Whatever happens, people can’t tension and allowed freedom of been a resounding yes. expect it to all go one direction. movement. The Good Friday TFor generations Irish people More problematic is the twelfth Agreement allows people in the have grown up on a diet of of July celebrations. When north claim to be Irish, British history decrying the colonisa- WB Yeats captured the the ‘Love Ulster’ organisation or both. Does unification matter tion and division of the country. zeitgeist of that genera- the grounds of Stormont has events are propelling us closer marched in Dublin on July 12 anymore beyond a historical We have been lulled by songs back in 2006 it had to be aban- desire for retribution? On the tion when he penned in been vetoed by Sinn Fein. Polit- to this moment of decision. lamenting the loss of sovereign- ically this is an understandable Emotionally and historically, doned due to aggressive attacks other hand, Brexit has certainly ty. The more senior of us will his famous poem Easter stance. It’s hard to be diplomatic there will always be a pull for and riots. For decades we wit- made it harder for goods to remember the gerrymandering 1916, writing, ‘A terri- if the memorial represents ev- reunification in the Republic. nessed the animosity it created travel freely between the two ju- of Catholics so their votes were in the north between commu- risdictions and movement is not ble beauty is born’. His erything your party is opposed However, the economics and nullified, the attack on the Civil to. It is the different side of ‘realpolitik’ might not be as nities because of its polarising as free flowing as it once was. Rights march in 1969, and the oxymoron that is fused the same coin when unionists persuasive an argument. Nearly symbolism. For unionists, it The pandemic has highlighted horrors that followed. beauty and terror in one opposed state recognition of a third of the population of the celebrates the preservation of the dangers of two jurisdictions The Act of Union in 1801 their people; for nationalists, it on one island not pulling togeth- phrase was not a mere 1916 celebrations. The same North are employed in the pub- cemented British rule and logic applies, but in the latter lic sector, i.e. from the British is an antagonistic celebration of er. A united Ireland eliminates heralded the end of Grattan’s fanciful poetic conceit. case, it’s a unionist perspective. exchequer. Subsidies to the victory over your foe. Love it these problems. Parliament. The consequences That terrible beauty For all the progress the north state amount to nearly eleven or loath it, it’s a cornerstone of Certainly, we must be pre- of a country not being allowed Unionist heritage and a united pared for this decision. A clause were the grand ideals has made, divisions have never billion a year. That makes it a to make its own decisions, was been so clear. Sixty-one per cent costly transfer of land. There Ireland would most likely have in the Good Friday Agreement crystallised by the British gov- of a republic – beautiful of the north voted to stay in the are other considerations too. to include this in their calendar states you can only have a ernments completely inapt and for all what it wanted to European Union. Yet since the While it’s difficult to know alongside Saint Patrick’s Day border poll every five years, inhumane attitude to the Great and Easter 1916. These may be meaning politicians won’t trig- achieve – and terrible pandemic, many voters may what unification would mean Hunger, within a generation of now see the advantages of the until it happens, compromises simple compromises for some, ger it unless they can be assured that union. The Westminster for it ultimately resulted union with Britain, predicated would have to be made. South more painful for others and of victory. The emotional and bubble stood by as millions in – a divided nation. on issues such as the successful Africa is a good example. A non-negotiable for more again. historical sentiment leans to- starved, despite the surplus of roll out of the British vaccina- divided country was unified The IRA ran a terror wards a desire for unification in food in the country. There is tion programme compared to when apartheid fell. They had to campaign for thirty years to the Republic. Time has blunted not an Irish person alive who the Republic’s. The European change their flag and every rug- force the British to give up the some of these sentiments and doesn’t know what happened Once the desire for Home Union’s ill-advised decision by fan can tell you about their North. Would there be anything new issues have surfaced that next. Rule was replaced with a to implement a clause in the very long, hybrid anthem, that stopping disgruntled loyalists may even be more relevant Ireland’s greatest statesman desire for complete indepen- Northern Protocol has hardened compromises of a new version waging a similar war against the when it comes to making a Daniel O’Connell foresaw those dence, Unionism became more unionist attitudes, including and the old Afrikaans version. Republic? The last time I was in choice. What do you want? dangers. After successfully entrenched. It may have been some moderate unionist opin- the north, I walked the ancient Time is ticking. getting Catholic emancipation coming anyway when the Ulster ion, about co-operation with in 1829, he spent the rest of Volunteer Force raised a militia the south. It has created more his life trying to repeal the Act 100,000 strong in defiance of suspicion and driven a wedge of Union. Other giants of Irish Home Rule in 1912. Even so, between communities. history, Butt, Parnell and Red- would England have kept the The Good Friday Agreement mond, endeavoured to achieve faith and granted an indepen- allows people in the Republic to Home Rule for the country so dent parliament for the thir- also have a say on the future of we could be in control of our ty-two counties? But given the Irish unity. This means that con- own affairs. Just as the nation extreme opposition by unionists sent for a united Ireland would was on the cusp of achieving to Home Rule of any shape or need to be given “concurrently”, this, the Germans decided to form, its implementation could not just in the north, but also in invade Belgium precipitating have sparked a civil war that the south. With regards to the a conflict that would turn the would have dwarfed the events communities in the six- coun- world upside down for the next of 1922-23. One can’t simply ties, it states that the Secretary DO NOT RENEW YOUR HOME OR four years. In the midst of that ignore the four hundred year of State for Northern Ireland MOTOR INSURANCE POLICY WITHOUT fury, a new generation hungry heritage that loyalist communi- shall call a border poll, “if at for more than just Home Rule ties had sown in the Ulster soil: any time it appears likely to CONTACTING US FOR A QUOTE emerged. WB Yeats captured One that they were prepared to him/her that a majority of those the zeitgeist of that generation defend to the death. voting would express a wish Barrack Street, Bantry • (027) 52233 when he penned in his famous One hundred years on, the that Northern Ireland should Bridge Street, Dunmanway • (023) 8845185 poem Easter 1916, writing, ‘A North is about to mark its birth cease to be part of the United Bridge Street, Skibbereen • (028) 21272 terrible beauty is born’. His this May. Their proposal for a Kingdom and form part of a oxymoron that is fused beauty six-county stone memorial in united Ireland”. All these recent 14 April 2 – April 29, 2021 OUT & ABOUT IN WEST CORK

Bonnie Aspell, Elianna Vinten and Olivia Kingston celebrating St Patrick’s day at Bandon Pictured in Clonakilty at the new public amenity area (on the site of the former Town Hall at Bridge NS. Pic: Denis Boyle Kent street) was Mayor of Clonakilty Padraig O’Reilly. Pic: Denis Boyle

(l-r) Mike Muyiji and Michael Mitras celebrate St Patrick’s Day at Bandon Bridge NS. Pic: Denis Boyle

Adam, Irene, Lauren and Sophie Mawe-Downey take part in the Dunmanway St. Patrick’s Day 2021 Doheny Fundraiser

Teresa and Conor Cahalane from Dunmanway celebrate St. Patrick’s Day 2021 Pictured at the weekly farmers market in Clonakilty were Maeve McCarthy and Carlos Delrio. Pic: Denis Boyle

Send your pictures of people events in West Cork to West Cork People’s Out and About page: email: [email protected] April 2 – April 29, 2021 15 people Enterprising West Cork Bandon girls scoop top honours at West Cork businesswomen West Cork Student Enterprise finals encouraged to book and Instagram.” Other prizewinners on the day included ‘The Beara Way’ celebrate achievements (Innovation award) from Beara Community School, ‘Western est Cork is full of talented and dedicated female Wood’ (Best sales), Ard- professionals. They have successful careers, run scoil Pobail Bantry, ‘Garran successful businesses and, in many cases also Handcrafts’ (Communication Wjuggle the needs of their families. Network Ireland Busi- awards), Skibbereen Com- nesswoman of the Year awards are designed to recognise the munity School, ‘Patched’ (Mar- achievement of these women. Whether you are an employee keting award), Sacred Heart or self-employed, working for a small or large business, Secondary School Clonakilty, whether you’re new to your career or business, or been estab- ‘Bumblebee Crafts’, (Best lished a while, with eight categories to choose from, there is a Business Plan) Ardscoil Pobail category for everyone. The awards process invites applicants Bantry, while Sustainability awards went to ‘The Eco to review their current position, think about their future direc- Wash’, MICC Dunmanway tion and improve strategic focus. and ‘Guardian Angels’, Schull Network Ireland West Cork Branch President Katherine Community College. O’Sullivan, who was a National winner in 2019 is encourag- Speaking at the final of the ing all women in business to enter these awards, “Network Kate O’Connor and Emily Barry with their ‘Hook R Strike’ sports storage solution. West Cork Student Enterprise Ireland Businesswoman of the Year Awards are a fantastic Awards, Kevin Curran, Head way of celebrating the many talented and dedicated women wo students from in local authorities throughout which creates clutter and of Enterprise, Cork County in business. You really have nothing to lose and so much to Colaiste na Toirbhirte the country, saw over 29,000 makes finding the equipment in Council’s Local Enterprise Of- gain by just telling your story of your career-to-date.” Bandon took the overall students from just under 500 a hurry difficult. fice Cork North and West said, Tprize at the recent West Cork secondary schools across the Speaking of their win, The Network Ireland West Cork branch has gone from “It is extremely encouraging strength to strength, becoming the fastest growing branch Student Enterprise finals, country take part in 2020/2021. Kate O’Connor said, “We are to see the level of enthusiasm Nationally in 2019 and can boast of two National winners in which were held virtually on The programme supports thrilled to take first place in among the students in what Thursday March 18. Hook R students to create, design and the West Cork finals. We now has been a very challenging 2018 and 2019, along with Mags Riordan who was Highly Strike is a handcrafted sports market their own business, all have lots of work to do, as year for them. I highly com- Commended in 2020 for her work at Bumblebee Flower equipment holder for the home. with the hope of reaching the we progress to represent West mend them and their fantastic Farm. This is an incredible achievement for such a newly More than 350 students from National Final. Cork in the National finals in teachers for all the work they formed group. ten participating West Cork Kate O’Connor and Emily May. So far our product has put in to the programme. They Award winners are chosen by a panel of business experts schools took part in the annual Barry have been building their been shipped all over Ireland, are testament that there are based on the information supplied in the application form. programme this year. The business ‘Hook R Strike’ since the UK and the US with well- ways around every obstacle The judges are looking for women who understand business, winning duo will represent the last September as part of the known celebrities also among and I hope this learning will who are passionate about their career or business, and show a Local Enterprise Office Cork Student Enterprise programme. our customer base including stand to them throughout their West at this year’s Student En- Their aim was to design a RTE sports presenters Evanne determination to succeed no matter what life throws at them. lives. Our national finalists are Branch winners will go forward to represent West Cork at a terprise Programme National multi-purpose customised Ní Chuilinn who said our rack excellent ambassadors for the national level. Final on Friday, May 14. sports rack which neatly stores was the best thing she ever programme and we wish them The enterprise education ini- a range of sporting equipment bought through Instagram and the very best of luck on Friday, To find out more, visit www.networkireland.ie or email tiative, funded by the Govern- for a tidier home. The idea for Jacqui Hurley. Our Hook R May 14, we’ll all be logged on [email protected]. A dedicated ment of Ireland through Enter- the business came from their Strike sports holders can be to support them.” West Cork awards team are ready to provide whatever help prise Ireland and delivered by own experiences of having purchased through our website or support is needed. Closing date is Friday, April 16 at 5pm. the 31 Local Enterprise Offices sports gear all over the home, hookrstrike.com or via Face-

Whether you are a start-up or an established business, we are here to support and assist you throughout 2021:

Business Advice Appointments: Online Training Webinars: Women in Business Programme 2021: 1 hour appointments with our Business Adviser Including: Planning a website, google analytics, Expressions of interest are now open for this – Ideal for someone at idea generation stage, SEO, social media, 10 steps to self employment. programme. It is suitable for those trading with 12 plus start-ups or growing established businesses. months plus who are growing or diversifying their Trading Online Voucher Scheme 2021: business. Brexit Support Clinics: Under the scheme an eligible small business 1 hour appointments with our Brexit Consultant may apply for funding up to a maximum value Start Your Own Business Programme: – Get your business Brexit ready. of €2,500 or 50% of eligible expenditure. The programme will guide you through the steps involved in setting up and managing your own business. With all of our events free of charge and online, our supports are nearer than ever to you and your business. Please check our website for an update schedule of events and supports: www.localenterprise.ie/corknorthandwest Personal information collected by is done so in order for us to Contact us today for more information: process your representation/enquiry and legally we can process it as it is necessary for us to comply with our statutory/legal obligations. The information will be processed T: 023-8834700 E: [email protected] W: www.localenterprise.ie/corknorthandwest in line with our privacy statement which is available on our website www.corkcoco.ie 16 April 2 – April 29, 2021 people Enterprising West Cork CL HR Consultancy makes all the right connections andon native Claire Ireland Businesswoman of the retains employees. I also endeav- encouraged by these likeminded Lehane is the determined Year Awards ‘Emerging New our to help create an engaged business women. Through our entrepreneur behind CL Business’ category in 2020. workforce improving morale, Network, there are many oppor- BHR Consultancy. Through a Claire says she grabbed every productivity and profitability. tunities to network, to receive combination of hard work and opportunity when working in the Employees are the greatest asset mentoring, to make friends and persistence, the HR Consultant corporate world as a HR Man- in any business but can also be to promote your business so it and Workplace Mediator has ager: As a result, she gained a one of the greatest challenges if ticked all the boxes for me. built up a successful business wealth of knowledge in her field not managed correctly.” At the time, she also joined providing tailored, solu- and is well placed to understand The services offered by CL Cork Chamber, making further tion-based services helping the needs, concerns and chal- HR Consultancy vary from day- connections. Claire is also an businesses meet their HR legal lenges that employers face when to-day HR operations and sup- active chartered member of her responsibilities. CL HR Consul- it comes to their employees. “I port to HR strategic projects and HR Professional body-CIPD tancy is currently renovating a am passionate about making a include some of the following: (Chartered Institute of Personnel new office space to accommo- positive impact culturally and HR legal compliance, managing and Development) which she date its growing business needs. ultimately in productivity for employee relations, absentee- says allows her to keep up to CL HR Consultancy was businesses,” she says. ism, performance, wellness and date with changing legislation a runner up in the West Cork “I want businesses to have engagement at work and conflict and best practice. Business Tourism Awards ‘Best peace of mind, the ability to resolution. Soon all of Claire’s network- New Business’ category in 2019 manage employee relations, After years of studying and ing started to pay off and CL HR and a finalist in The Network which ultimately attracts and working in HR, from starting Consultancy gained more and out in a voluntary HR role in more clients. West Cork over 12 years ago, It was through this networking to quickly working her way up and speaking with businesses the ladder in companies across that Claire also recognised the Cork and Dublin, Claire decided growing need and interest in to take the plunge in 2018 and workplace mediation and so she set up her own HR Consultancy completed a three-month intense busiess. training course, becoming a “Initially, I approached the certified qualified workplace local enterprise office and Mediator in 2019. A highly experienced HR consultancy business, through their services, complet- As well as holding a Business dedicated to helping business owners and managers ed a ‘Start Your Own Business’ Studies Degree from UL, Claire achieve success by Connecting Through People. course, and soon after a ‘Women also has a Master’s Degree in In Business’ course, which were Human Resource Management HR SERVICES INCLUDE: both invaluable to me,” she says. from Dublin City University and with people and being able daughters she says are her inspi- 1. HR Consulting “I recently upgraded my website a Diploma in Employment Law to make a positive impact in the ration and keep her on her toes 2. Talent Management and they also funded 90 per cent from Dublin Business School. of this. Their door is always She is a Chartered member of workplace.” everyday! “They have taught me 3. Wellness in the Workplace open to give you advice or to the Chartered Institute of Person- In 10 years time, Claire’s to be patient, to appreciate the 4. Mediation & Conflict Resolution steer you in the right direction nel and Development (CIPD) hope is that CL HR Consultancy little things in life, to have some 5. HR Coaching & Mentoring – I can’t speak highly enough and a qualified workplace will be established throughout fun and to be fearless!” of their support to me and my Mediator through the Mediators’ Cork and beyond, providing a Claire’s advice to anyone ARE YOU- business.” Institute of Ireland (MII). top-class tailored service for starting out in business is to be - In business with no HR Department & don’t Claire started connecting and businesses. As CL HR Con- persistent. “You will have bad sultancy continues to grow days but just learn to walk away have the time to manage your HR? networking daily. “I understood Married to a dairy farmer with that people needed to learn about two young daughters, life is busy and expand, she would like to from it and start afresh the next - A stand alone HR professional looking for a employ additional HR specialists day. Always ask for help; there second opinion and some support? my business and to have trust but fulfilling. “No two days are and confidence in me and my the same,” says Claire. “I work and to be the ‘go-to’ HR experts is plenty of it out there. Finally - A busy HR team that needs help with a big HR services. This is when I became with a variety of clients from advising and providing solutions be patient with you and your project or need an independent HR professional aware of Network Ireland West different industries and business to businesses. business – sow the seeds, nurture to deal with an HR matter? Cork and I immediately joined,” sizes, so I love seeing the But most of all, she hopes and care for it and wait for the she explains. From that first differences in working cultures to have maintained a good results.” We can help. work-life balance, spending Get in contact today for a free consultation call. meeting, Claire felt welcomed and the different approaches and supported. “I knew that my that work in each. It sounds a happy times with family and www.clhrc.ie friends. Her independent young [email protected] | www.clhrc.ie | 087 6360259 business would be supported and bit cliché but I do love working

have direct experience of a prob- Up to 60 places are available Awardees will receive mentor- Social entrepreneurs lem – and the courage and insight on SEI’s Ideas Academy. The ship, training, and consultancy in to put forward a solution, and act three-month programme will pro- areas such as leadership develop- on it. Often it is through real chal- vide budding social entrepreneurs ment, fundraising, governance, invited to apply for funding lenge that innovation is inspired, with the support and direction strategic planning, and commu- and we are anticipating seeing they need as they take the first nications. They will also have that in this year’s applications in steps from idea to action. In addi- access to pro-bono support from and support from SEI response to the global pandemic. tion to having the opportunity to partner organisations throughout We’re calling on people from all pitch for seed funding, partici- the nine-month programme. The backgrounds who need support pants on the Ideas Academy will Impact Programme will be deliv- ocial Entrepreneurs Ireland Ideas Academy will have the idea to solve a social problem, or to realise their vision to apply to be supported to clearly articulate, ered primarily online in 2021-22, (SEI) is making €50,000 opportunity to pitch for a portion the Impact Programme – aimed SEI. We know that the first step refine and progress their solution, with in-person elements included seed funding available of the €50,000 seed fund to at high-potential social entre- of the journey is often the hardest to build skills and accelerate when, and if, it safe to do so. Sthrough its Ideas Academy pilot their idea. Awardees on the preneurs looking to grow their one to take. We are here to help, learning in core areas of impor- DCC plc, the international to individuals who have an Impact Programme will receive impact. Some of SEI’s alumni and we hope that the supports tance to social entrepreneurs, and sales, marketing and support early-stage innovative idea to €20,000 in direct funding each to based in Munster include Change we have available on both of to move from idea to action. In services group, is the flagship solve a particular social problem. grow their impact in addition to By Degrees, Alex’s Adventure our programmes, along with the response to current public health supporter of SEI’s national call A further €100,000 will be bespoke non-financial support. and Irish Community Rapid availability of €50,000 in seed restrictions, the 2021 programme for applications. awarded to high potential social SEI, which is dedicated to Response (ICRR). funding on the Ideas Academy will be delivered online. Applications for the Ideas entrepreneurs through its Impact supporting social entrepreneurs Commenting, SEI Interim and €20,000 in unrestricted fund- Up to five places are available Academy and Impact Programme Programme. The funding is part in Ireland, is encouraging people Director of Impact, Siobhán ing for each of our five Impact on SEI’s prestigious Impact Pro- are open until midnight on of a suite of supports on offer from West Cork to “see the O’Keeffe said: “All across Ire- Programme Awardees will further gramme, aimed at high-potential Wednesday, April 7. Interested through these programmes, both challenge, be the change,” by land there are people with ideas support our social entrepreneurs social entrepreneurs. In addition candidates can apply or find out of which are currently accepting applying to the Ideas Academy – to solve social problems – in to pilot their ideas and grow their to € 20,000 in unrestricted more at www.socialentrepre- applications. Participants on the aimed at those with an early-stage some cases, these are people who impact.” funding to grow their impact, neurs.ie. April 2 – April 29, 2021 17 people Enterprising West Cork Tips for working well from home Moving regularly and being physically supported with ergonomically de- signed furniture are key to working well at home. The benefits are numerous and include promotion of circulation, improved memory and concentration, elevated mood and reduced stress, and healthier joints and muscles. All of this leads to a more productive home office environment and healthier employees, and should therefore be a top priority for employers this spring.

The Leap has three memory laptop, and the bottom level that computer mice and gel wrist features which enables the user holds a keyboard and mouse. pads. See www.highresolution. to save their preferred sitting High Resolution currently ie for the full range or con- and standing heights, so there’s has 60 per cent off this model tact Trevor on 023 8858888 no faffing about. making it very affordable at / [email protected] to s workers and students cushioning with an ultra An alternative is the Cor- €210+VAT. get his advice on all office furni- alike spend more hours ergonomic contoured back- sivo, which converts your There are lots of other ergo- ture – you won’t find a more than ever in a static rest,” Trevor says. “Most existing desk into a sit-stand nomic products available from knowledgeable source for what Aseated position at home, Trevor popular is black and blue but workstation with a spacious High Resolution that will help office aids are available. Kingston of High Resolution, it is available in a huge range upper platform that holds two you achieve an optimal work/ West Cork’s mobile office of colours to personalise your monitors, or a monitor and study space such as keyboards, suppliers, has experienced a big office space. However, we are uptake in orders for ergonomi- all different and you might cally designed office furniture have to try a few dif- to combat common issues like ferent brands before neck and back pain. “When you find the perfect not working or studying from fit. I bring a selection home, people normally get up chairs to your home to and move regularly – to speak ‘test drive’ to make sure you COVERING to a colleague, use the photo- choose the right one.” support your back – if they fall copier, switch classrooms – but To get the most out of short try one of High Resolu- ALL OF CORK none of that is necessary now your chair, the ISCP advises tion’s foot rests. so they are finding themselves adjusting the chair height so that Now adjust your backrest crouched for hours at the kitch- your upper arms are relaxed by height and tilt for your comfort. en table or a makeshift desk and your side, and your wrists are Finally move your chair as close not good for your wellbeing,” in a neutral position when your to your desk as is comfortable Trevor says. hands are on the keyboard. If (this is why adjustable armrests “From an employer’s you need to raise yourself up are necessary) and try to always SIT/STAND perspective, it’s like giving an to achieve this, then your feet sit with your back against the DESKS employee a slow computer….. should still be supported to backrest. A proper work desk is the work productivity is going of equal importance, High Res- TRY A to be limited.” olution has a wide range starting More ISCP Tips to to VARIETY TO FIND The Irish Society of Char- from just €100+VAT. work well from home YOUR PERFECT tered Physiotherapists (ISCP) While a good chair and desk CHAIR has a whole section on working Stand up and move around at will certainly help, ultimately Stay healthy, productive & better from home on its website regular intervals (minimum staying seated for long periods in which it provides advice if once an hour and more often causes weight pressure to be pain-free with our ergonomic buying an office chair: To help if possible). unevenly distributed over the you keep your focus and work spine, and the leg and gluteus If possible, take a walk at productively and comfortably, muscles become inactive, thus lunchtime. HOME OFFICE FURNITURE choose a five-star base with a reducing your ability to sit up height adjustable seat, backrest During virtual meetings, try straight. We often think that it and arms (or no armrests if not to turn off the video and stand is just standing for long periods Full range of printer options adjustable). The backrest should up and move around. that causes swollen ankles and also be tilt adjustable or have varicose veins, but actually available. Call us for advice. lumbar support. Stand up and move around remaining seated for too long when you are on phonecalls. High Resolution has a range also causes fluids to sink down Browse & order of chairs that fit this brief but Climb the stairs often if you into the legs! from our ONLINE also fit a range of budgets, from have one. This is where a sit/stand- just €150. The most popular is ing desk comes in and High CATALOGUE the Positura Chair, which comes Keep hydrated to reduce Resolution has a number of in at €270+VAT (not a bad fatigue and promote concen- solutions. The Leap desk (from investment when you think of tration. €475+VAT) is electrically ad- We’re happy to provide a quote or advice, call us on 023 8858888 potential savings against Physio Give your eyes a break from justable and goes from 655mm or email [email protected] bills). “This is a really great screen as often as possible to to 1255mm in height with www.highresolution.ie chair that has deep contoured promote restful sleep. simple touch-sensitive controls. 18 April 2 – April 29, 2021 people Enterprising West Cork Teaching people how to shine in life usan Collins Duggan at communicating through school programmes focus on the accomplishments of her believes in educating in social media, email, or various the CBAs and on Effective students, on and off the stage. a fun, friendly, creative technology platforms than we Communication delivered “Having students complete Sand safe environment, where are speaking in person. Many through Drama and Presenta- both their Associate and students are encouraged to people would prefer to hide tion exercises. Licentiate qualifications with express themselves. Her under a bush than to speak in One-to-one tuition is avail- the London College of Music successful business Theatre front of an audience, yet most able to primary and secondary and go on to work in the arts Tricks Drama and Communi- people will experience this children and Susan works with industry but for others they cations not only gives students at some point of their lives many of them on a weekly have used their qualifications self-confidence, self-esteem whether that is in person or basis with various different in other industries such as and employability skills but online. The fear of presenting communication needs, from medicine, primary and second- will benefit them throughout is often pervasive and prob- dyslexia, to a speech fault, to ary education and international their lives. “I aim to give each lematic but with good practice, improving reading skills, to communications.” student or client the opportuni- persistence and direction, I building self-confidence. Her passion for her work ty to shine in their own way,” help clients to manage anxiety Theatre Tricks offers be- means that she has worked explains Susan, who has over rather than it controlling the spoke courses in Presentation hard to get where she is today. 15 years of teaching Speech person. “ Skills and Public Speaking “Never give up on your and Drama, running her own Susan also delivers tailor- to adults in both group and dreams and goals and believe school and teaching students made programmes to compa- individual settings. It also in yourself,” she advises. privately on an individual basis nies, schools – both primary provides tutoring to individual College of Music, LAMDA come even more creative than “In my business, you need or in small groups. and secondary, and to third clients in Diplomas in Speech or VCM. “I have some clients I would already be. I have also boundless energy but it is so “We are all more proficient level facilities. The secondary and Drama with the London who just want to reignite their gained invaluable support from rewarding to see the smiles on inner actor and we enjoy a the West Cork Network Group people’s faces. Regardless of group session of Introduction and the Speech and Drama what life brings to you, there is Adult & Corporate Training to Acting,” says Susan, who Teachers of Ireland group always a way if you are willing enjoys treading the floorboards which I am currently a serving to give it a go. Susan is aiming Whether it is being asked to deliver a speech, a on a stage herself when she board member of.” to expand her online presence virtual presentation or going for a job interview, gets the chance. Prior to Covid-19, each year and empower more people to the fear of presenting is palpable, pervasive and In the past 12 months, like Theatre Tricks held its annual overcome their fears of public often problematic. so many other businesses, productions at the Rossmore speaking and presentation Our courses can help: Susan has faced the challenge Theatre with casts of up to skills. • Public Speaking & Communication Skills of moving her business online. 100 children and teenagers. “I got to where I am today, • Presentation Skills “Having previously worked “While it was a stressful time through hard work, determina- in an international company in the job,” explains Susan, “it • Introduction to Acting tion and the wonderful support where conference or video was also the most rewarding from my husband, children and • Mentoring for London College of Music calls were the norm and having time seeing students from age good friends. As the saying For more information on the (University of West London) Drama & some adult clients already two-and-a-half to 17 years goes ‘anything is possible’ and content of our classes and Communications Diplomas programmes please go to online for tuition, I decided to shine while on stage and grow I believe that it can be. I also • Wellness www.theatretricks.ie bring all my work online and with each year’s productions in drew from my life experiences For children we offer group Speech and Drama classes thankfully it has been a great confidence. I look forward to to date and it has shaped the or phone Susan on and also individual classes either online or in person success to date,” she shares. seeing those smiling faces on path to where I am now.” 087-8398758 ED (when restrictions allow). We also deliver programmes “Challenges are good so it has stage again in the future.” in primary, secondary and montessori. taught me to adapt and to be- Susan takes great pride in www.theatretricks.ie

Champion Green 2021 launch rallies support for small business hampion Green, the bers of Commerce Ireland, the Commenting on the launch, they can also avail of business Visa’s long-term commitment Aviva Life and Pensions national movement to #ChampionGreen movement is Champion Green founder and support, webinars and the latest to champion small businesses. Ireland DAC rolled out an drive recovery of small about highlighting the simple Kilkenny Design CEO, Marian news, while national campaign Visa has been drawing on its innovative scheme whereby a Cbusiness, has launched its 2021 ways everyone can make a O’Gorman says; “Change is advertising explains how mon- network of industry, technology vacant shop unit from its Irish programme in support of the lo- difference. The campaign en- in the air as we look forward ey spent locally supports local and community partners to pro- commercial property fund cal economy, with the Tánaiste courages the public to shop and to the country reopening in the jobs and services. vide much needed assistance portfolio was awarded to a and Minister for Enterprise, to ‘click local’ to help business- coming months. We are encour- Champion Green social to the small business sector as small business, free of charge, Trade and Employment, Leo es in their community bounce aging business owners to keep media channels are also used they rebuild for recovery.” as a pop-up shop last summer. Varadkar TD, welcoming the back and thrive again. their spirits high, keep driving to motivate support for local Recent research commis- The recipient was Irish design ‘support local’ initiative. Welcoming the campaign, their business online, and grasp businesses and to communicate sioned by Visa indicated that brand, Jill & Gill, who have New plans for Champion the Tánaiste said: the green shoots of recovery”. offers from small businesses consumers are keen to support been allocated a short-term Green include a local loyalty “This year’s St Patrick’s Announcing the new national countrywide. local business wherever possi- licence for a pop-up shop in app and a National Champion Day will be a lot different than Champion Green marketing “Small businesses are the ble, with 75 per cent of people a prime location at No 5 St Green Week, all of which will previous years unfortunately, support and consumer adver- backbone of our local commu- saying they feel better about Stephen’s Green in Dublin city encourage and reward consum- but we can still make the most tising, Marian O’Gorman said nities, but so many have been themselves when shopping centre. Aviva continues to be er support for local brands and of it. A great way to celebrate the movement’s continuing hit hard by the pandemic,” said locally. supportive of Champion Green. businesses, as well as facilitat- would be to support your local priority is to drive the renewal Dominic White, Acting Coun- Businesses and service Small business owners can ing SME recovery. businesses, and this Champi- of local communities and local try Manager, Ireland, Visa. providers across Ireland are register to avail of PR and The initiative is backed by on Green campaign is a great enterprise. “We’re committed to sup- rallying to support the renewal marketing support, as well a €1m investment to drive reminder to people to consider porting small businesses in Ire- of small firms. An Post created as business advice, as part of consumer support for local en- what is on their doorstep and Marketing Toolkit land, and proud to be working a Champion Green postmark the national Champion Green terprise and to help SMEs adapt shop local. Hope is on the To support SMEs’ consumer hand in hand with Champion and display material for Post campaign. Detail is available at their businesses. horizon. There will be brighter marketing, businesses can Green to celebrate our small Offices, encouraging people to championgreen.ie. Supported by Kilkenny days ahead and, in the mean- access a new marketing toolkit businesses and the value they shop locally, while also provid- Design and Visa, in association time, we need to all look after on championgreen.ie, free bring to our local communities. ing parcel delivery support to with Retail Excellence, Small each other and support our local of charge. By signing-up on “Our partnership with local businesses newly adapting Firms Association and Cham- communities.” the Champion Green website Champion Green forms part of to ecommerce. April 2 – April 29, 2021 19 people Enterprising West Cork Supporting women NEW FRONTIERS post Covid NATIONAL PROGRAMME FOR DEVELOPING ENTREPRENEURS The global pandemic and beauty for example) and crisis and bolster your reputa- as many of these jobs cannot tion and credibility as a trusted From Business Idea to Successful Start-up. has been disproportion- be done remotely, recovery is employer.” ality unfair to women, going to be trickier. Add to that By offering flexibility, wom- New Frontiers is the interactive workshops, the fact that women spend ap- en can stay in the workplace. National Programme personalised highlighting the in- designed to develop mentoring, financial proximately twice as much time With over 450,000 women equalities between men entrepreneurs delivered support and co-working on unpaid care (looking after in Ireland stating their role as on behalf of Enterprise space, New Frontiers and women in nearly children or relatives) than their ‘home duties’ as opposed to less Ireland by the Rubicon is a game changer every aspect of life; male counterparts and on aver- than 9,000 men, this needs to be Centre in MTU Cork for anyone serious age 23 hours doing housework addressed. Campus, Bishopstown. about developing their from the home place compared to 15 hours for men, Returnships – These are business idea into a Phase 2 of the successful start-up. to the workplace and the second shift for Mothers is programmes designed like programme is full time everything in between. actually crippling them. These internships but for people over 6 months with Designed for Karen O’Reilly, found- are the facts. returning to the workplace. For a support package individuals who: Inequality also exists with the women who have, for economic worth up to €30,000 • Have an innovative er of Employmum and underrepresentation of women or personal reasons, taken time and no equity taken. business idea Employflex, gives her at decision making level. Of 115 out to care for their family, this It helps early stage with export and national dedicated COVID-19 is a practical way to open the entrepreneurs gain employment top tips to help women the confidence and potential task forces in 87 countries, door to back to work that seems skills required to post Covid in the work- including 17 EU Member slammed in so many faces develop a business • Can show evidence place. States, 85,2 per cent were made when they try to re-enter the idea within a supportive of a commercial up mainly of men, 11.4 per workplace. and encouraging market for the cent were women, and only Family Friendly workplac- environment. proposed product or he vice president for service Values and Transparency 3.5 per cent had gender parity. es – Companies and organisa- Consisting of Maybe this is down to the fact tions who are genuinely family • Are ambitious and in the EU Commission, practical and growth-orientated TVera Jourva states “Women that women just do not have the friendly will attract parents. are at the frontline during the time to get involved in politics, By getting the message out pandemic and they are more a role which is not flexible and there that your company adopts NEW FRONTIERS at The Rubicon Centre, MTU Cork affected by it. We can’t afford demands long hours as well as family friendly policies like is now taking Expressions of Interest sliding back; we must con- non-existent maternity leave flexibility/school time friendly/ Closing date: tinue to push for fairness and until recently in Ireland. family days and community Complete an Expression of Interest Form online: equality. This is why EU has put All pretty depressing from values. Ask yourself what are http://bit.ly/2021Phase2 7 June 2021 women at the heart of recovery a female perspective – once the values of your organisation and obliged Member States again, we draw the short straw – – what is your reputation like to include gender equality in at work and at home. in the market – are you thought investments funded from Re- All of this is not news, what of as a place where work covery and Resilience Facility.’ can we do as a society, as an comes before all else – is there VP Kamala Harris has called it individual and as a responsible work/life balance within your a ‘National Emergency’ and the employer to right this? company and is that reflected in Flexibility – Chambers your overall messaging on your theme of this year’s IWD was thy and understanding and also begin with. into the workplace, nurture a Ireland and UNICEF made a website/social media? #choosetochallenge this frankly realise that there are, actually, Role models – we need to more positive and inclusive joint press release this week Leading with empa- embarrassing and virtually more important things in life seek out strong women who workplace for all. Society stating “flexibility is crucial” thy – There have been some worldwide status quo of female than work. have succeeded in their careers would work very well with 1.5 when it comes to supporting advantages to our working life inequality.” Decision making in organ- and tell their stories – show jobs per household. How could working families post-pandem- because of Covid and the reali- There is much wringing of isations – for a female looking young women that it is possible that work for your family? ic. “Our message today is that sation and acceptance amongst hands and shaking of heads, for work or seeking to return to to pursue a career in engineer- Choose to Challenge – this flexibility will be needed leaders that there is more to life but are we all just screaming work, can they see that there are ing/finance or tech and rise to There was a lot of talk around not only for the duration of the than work is one of them. As into the void? Real action needs females in the leadership team – the top. We must challenge International Women’s Day this pandemic, but also in the longer we have been invited into each to be taken in the workplace are females visible in the organ- stereotyping wherever possible. year as companies fell over each term.” other’s homes while we Work so that all the strides we have isation – are females promoted Gender pay gap reporting – other to portray themselves as This joint message from From Home, leaders have wit- made towards gender equality and is there transparency on once this becomes mandatory, Female Friendly. IWD is more Chambers Ireland and UNICEF nessed another side to their em- are not eradicated by the impact female progression within your companies will literally have than just a clever acronym. is a ‘call to action’ to the busi- ployees’ lives, sometimes messy of the last 12 months of lock- organisation? Do you actively nowhere to hide. The gender We need to push this to the ness community. By addressing and always busy while we work down. Unfortunately, women support, encourage and sponsor gap exists because of a myriad forefront every other day of the the needs of working families from home during a pandemic. traditionally work in sectors that women through all stages of of reasons, i.e. women account year as well. – and supporting global relief Employers should have learnt to were badly hit by the pandem- their career journey? for 70 per cent of part time roles EmployKind – we here at efforts – we will ensure a faster check in more often with their ic (hospitality, caring, retail Education – Gender balance in Ireland while men dominate Employmum and Employflex collective recovery from the employees, to lead with empa- within all companies and higher paid roles and women speak to women every day. organisations is only possible if are attracted to caring roles They tell us stories of secret girls are being taught at a young such as nursing. Women also parenting, of being overlooked age about the opportunities that take more time out to care for for promotions, of being expect- are available to them outside families, resulting in a gap in ed to do 50 hour-plus weeks, of of the traditional role models. their careers and ultimately a being desperately unhappy. The Events like iWish, encouraging pay gap. Companies need to future of work should not look young women to get involved address these points and ask like this – we have an oppor- in STEM are so important. A themselves what we can do to tunity now to get it right and real effort needs to be made level the playing field at work develop a kinder world of work. to educate young women, to for everyone. have the same opportunities in Education of males – men For more information contact girls’ schools as there are in all need to step up and play their Karen O’Reilly, founder of boys schools. It is impossible to part as well. Support your wom- Employmum and Employflex - have gender parity in industries en, put the egos aside and by 087 9722498. where the talent pool is tiny to leaning in to welcome women 20 April 2 – April 29, 2021 people Farming New Teagasc contract calf and Cork farmers weanling rearing agreements reminded to take here is growing interest riod the calves can be retained the animals for the duration of advantage of the in contract arrangements on the contract rearing farm, the agreement. between farmers to rear returned to the dairy farm, or Gordon Peppard, Teagasc Tcalves and other young cattle. sold to a third party. Collaborative Farming Spe- Organic Farming Teagasc has responded by cialist said: “These agreements developing new contract agree- 2. Contract Calf and Wean- provide an excellent oppor- ment templates. ling Rearing Agreement tunity for non-dairy farming Scheme With growing dairy herds, Similar to the contract calf enterprises to devise a different ork farmers considering an application to the Organic many dairy farmers are rearing template agreement system of production, in the Farming Scheme have until April 30 to do so, following the now beginning to encounter this agreement outlines that knowledge that in return for re-opening of the scheme earlier this month with an addi- difficulties in sourcing high the calves, once weaned, will a good performance of the Ctional budget of €4 million for 2021. quality skilled labour. Also remain on the contract rearer’s contract reared stock that they This additional funding was confirmed by Minister of State at the lack of available lands to holding for an additional period will be rewarded for their land, the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Senator Pippa lease/purchase, and in cases for further rearing. The length labour, facilities and manage- Hackett when she confirmed the continuation of the scheme last limited or inadequate calf/heifer of this additional period is ment through a pre agreed month. rearing facilities, is leading to 1. Contract Calf Rearing agreed between the animal monetary rate per head per day. Agreement 1,460 farmers participated in the last scheme, and it is envisaged more dairy farmers looking owner and the contract rearer in This allows them to better plan that approximately 500 more may be successful in their application to outsource the rearing of This template agreement pro- advance. their cash flow, and they are not vides for the contract rearing for this Spring. calves through contract rearing During the rearing period the dependant on the sale of stock Philip O’Connor, Head of Farm Supports at Ifac said: “Applica- agreements. calves greater than 10 days old animal owner pays an agreed on two, or three, main selling up to weaning. It is predom- tions for the scheme must be made online through the Department’s In other farming enterprises, fee per head, per day, to the days in the year. For the dairy online system at agfood.ie. I would encourage every farmer to poor and volatile market prices inantly intended for, but not contract rearer and the animal farmer, they have the advan- restricted to, the rearing of bull inform themselves of the opportunities that the Organic Farming have resulted in poor profit- owner retains ownership of the tage of removing a number of Scheme offers and give it full consideration.” ability of other main farming calves from the dairy herd. animals at the end of the rearing animals from their holding at In removing bull calves from Payments of up to €220 per hectare are available for farms un- enterprises. This has paved the period. an early age, reducing the need dergoing conversion to full organic status, a process that takes two way for increased opportunity the dairy herd at 10-plus days There are four key areas to be for additional facilities, labour of age from the dairy farm, it years, or €170 per hectare for farms that have obtained that status. for contract calf, and/or wean- addressed during the formation and so on, and providing them Higher payment rates are available for organic horticulture and ling, rearing arrangements to be removes the need for additional of these agreements. the opportunity to allocate more facilities and labour requirement tillage farmers. formed in the upcoming years. 1. Outline – Animal owner and time and resources to the main The minimum farm area allocated is three hectares for dairy, Teagasc in conjunction with to deal with these animals. With contract rearer’s details. cow herd.” very compact six-week calving dry stock and tillage, or one hectare for horticulture, with rates of Diarmaid O Cathain, Solici- 2. Duration – Establish the The Teagasc Contract Calf payment decreasing for horticulture farms over six hectares, tillage tor, Ben Roche, Collaborative rates now on dairy farms, commencement and end date of Rearing and Calf and Weanling the numbers of calves can be farms over 20 hectares and all farms over 60 hectares. Farming Consultant and Gordon the agreement. Rearing agreements can be All applications must be processed through agfood.ie, and to be Peppard, Teagasc Collaborative very significant if all male and 3. Payment – agreed payment found on the Teagasc public female calves have to be held eligible, farmers must submit an annual Basic Payment Scheme Farming Specialist have devel- rate per head per day and decide website. application and must be registered with one of the two Organic oped two key contract rearing for four weeks, or longer, before on method of payment. they are moved on. Control Bodies that certify land-based organic operators; The Irish template agreements. 4. Terms and conditions – estab- www.teagasc.ie Organic Association and Organic Trust CLG. At the end of the rearing pe- lish a management protocol of A West Cork Farming Life: Patrick Deasy, Reacarrigeen, Ballinascarthy

Describe the farm? Calving is still on-going, any be the highlight of the year for wins. After the results are an- I’m currently milking 130 cows of the cows in calf to Holstein many pedigree livestock breed- nounced the master judge gives in partnership with my parents, Friesian AI finished on the ers in West Cork. You would their detailed reasons to back up Liam and Mary, and we’re first week of March. This is to always look forward to the fun their opinion. There’s a lot to be farming 160 acres in total. We try and get enough heifer calf and camaraderie inside and learned from this. own 110 acres of it and the rest replacements. It’s better when outside the ring on show day. is on a long-term lease. I am the you get heifer calves earlier in It’s unlikely that we’re going How did you become interest- seventh generation of the Deasy the spring, as we can maximise to see any return under current ed in the competition? family farming in Reacarrigeen. their ability to calve down as Covid restrictions though unfor- My interest in stock judging The cows are all pedigree Hol- two-year-olds in 2023. All the tunately. stems from the deep knowledge stein Friesians and our pedigree calves since have been from of cows and pedigrees I inherit- prefix is ‘Reacarrigeen’. My Aberdeen Angus sires and those Could you describe stock ed from my father. As a member father established the ‘Reacar- calves will be sold later. judging to those who would be of the Cork Holstein Friesian rigeen’ herd in 1976. Milk is I got urea fertiliser spread unfamiliar with the concept? Club, in pre-Covid times, we supplied to Barryroe Co-op and on grazing platform and got Stock judging involves placing, used to attend a number of 70 per cent of the herd is spring the fertiliser out on the fields in order of merit, a group of summer field evenings hosted calving while we also supply 30 intended for first cut silage too. animals, usually four and by pedigree breeders all around per cent of our milk on a winter In early April we’ll be getting sometimes six, from first to last, the county. At those, judging milk contract. Cows are milked ground prepared for sowing of based solely on their physi- of dairy stock was always a here every day of the year. maize. This is done on contract. cal appearance or desirable challenging task. Association) of the IHFA titions in Macra are so Young stock will be turned out breeding traits. Each competi- and they hold workshops and competitive. In 2019, I became What’s been happening on to grass too. tor’s list of placing will then be You’ve been successful in competitions throughout the the first person to successfully the farm lately? compared to those of an overall those competitions over the year. Each county has their own win the Senior National Dairy The cows have been getting You’ve been a regular on the master judge on the day. Points years. Have you any advice YMA, which comes under the stock judging title on two out to grass by day since the cattle showing scene…was it are awarded based on a scale of for those interested? umbrella of the IHFA. separate occasions. It’s held start of March and they were strange to not have any shows how close a person gets to the Practice would be the big thing. As an active member of Bal- in conjunction with the Irish getting a buffer feed of grass last year? master judge. For example, 10 Attending the Cork IHFA (Irish linascarthy Macra Na Feirme Holstein Friesian Association and maize silage, which was fed We’d been doing it for a few points if in full agreement on a Holstein Friesian Association) for a number of years, I have open day. I had previously won indoors by night. I’m hoping to years, so it was strange to not placing, or one point if they’re field evenings, there’s three been lucky enough to take part it in 2009. have them out by day and night have any last year. Summer in complete disagreement. The every summer are a help. There in many national competitions shortly, weather-permitting. show season would normally person with the highest score is a YMA (Young Members in my time. It helps that compe- Interview by Tommy Moyles April 2 – April 29, 2021 21 people Farming Uncertain times

FARMING IN WEST CORK Tommy Moyles The pleasant weather has seen calves get out to grass at Tommy Moyles’ farm at , Clonakilty.

In his farming diary, West Cork milk supply. This is in part due the good news stories. Beef as well as in-depth knowledge staff before a sale commences. ahead of when they were due. suckler farmer and columnist to a delay in Glanbia getting prices took an unexpected hit and understanding of farmers in Department of Agriculture The good weather meant that with the Irish Farmers Journal, planning for a new cheese plant. in factories in early March but selling their livestock.” officials have been maintaining most calves got out to grass Tommy Moyles covers the lay The proposals have dealt a have recovered a little since Further west in Skibbereen, a strong presence in marts in within a day or two of being of the land across all agri and major blow to suppliers in the while the trade for live cattle Terelton native Denis O’Dono- West Cork to ensure lockdown born. You’d be grateful to the farming enterprises – news, region. Dairy farmers around has been on fire in the marts. ghue is the new manager. regulations are abided. Even ditches around the place, as they views and people in farming the country are watching He began working for Cork before Covid-19 raised its head, provide a haven from the dif- across West Cork and further how this unfolds and will be New appointments Marts in 2012 and worked as the last decade has seen changes ferent winds that we experience afield. concerned that there could be a Speaking of marts, two of Cork livestock auctioneer in recent in how marts conduct their busi- around here. The calves aren’t precedent set. marts’ West Cork premises years. Alongside in-house ness. Online sales websites and long working out where the In association The southeast of the country are under new management. training he has also completed lots of competition for business shelter is either. with saw a lift in the level of milk The previous incumbent Tom an auctioneering course through in the South West region has It’s only a few years ago that supplied when quota restrictions McCarthy covered both roles Tallaght IT and Mart managers’ made it a more time consuming we had half the cows calved by were lifted in 2015. Dairy farms before recently leaving to take development course with ICOS/ role for mart staff. the end of February and almost expanded and a good number of up a role on the Axa agri-insur- Skillnets. had single figures left to go by t’s been a funny time in ag- new entrant suppliers converted ance team. Both men will be reporting to Calving St Patrick’s day. riculture lately. Prices across from dry stock and tillage. Sean Dennehy has been Cork Marts’ recently appointed Out on the farm, calving is In recent years, that third most sectors have been appointed the new manager at general manager of livestock ticking along nicely and a dry week of March is when calving Iimproving or holding steady. Price Bandon mart, taking up the role services, Jonathan O’Sullivan. spell of weather makes life on gets busiest and if the weather Despite this, there is an air of It’s not all doom and gloom, from March 29. the farm much easier. Despite is bad, then you know a dry uncertainty in the background, Milk suppliers in West Cork Describing the new Bandon Marts it being busy, the good weather spell can’t be too far away. The as the new Climate bill is benefitted from Carbery lifting manager, Cork Marts CEO, The environment the marts now made work on the farm a plea- middle of February is an early digested and CAP negotiations their milk price by 0.5c/l and Sean O’Sullivan said “Sean has operate is very different to that sure. The cold easterlies and run enough starting point for us to continue. The final details of Dairygold raised their price by a strong background in farming of February 2020. Ringsides of sunny weather early in the get going with calving. We just both and how they will impact 1.6c/l. business, farm management that would traditionally be month made a huge difference have to get the calendar out and on farmers on the ground are Sheep prices have reached and as a national commodity packed are now empty, as the to ground conditions. Due to get planning now. yet to be decided. unprecedented levels with chair in IFA. He is currently sales service is strictly online this, it was the earliest that I was Maybe it’s because I’m get- Also in the southeast, quotes in the region of €7.80 national sheep chairman and during Level 5 Covid-19 re- ever able to get all the yearling ting older, but the current ways Glanbia, one of the largest milk to €8/kg being quoted for early vice president of the COPA strictions. Those wishing to buy heifers to grass. are more relaxing than having processors in the country is pro- season lamb. Prices have been sheep-working group in Brus- stock can view what is available To date, there was only one to bed pens two or three times posing introducing restrictions on the rise since the middle of sels. He has developed good before the sale starts but the cow went beyond her due date a day. on its milk producers at peak last year and it remains one of leadership and teamwork skills pens must be empty of all bar with only three not calving

European and Irish governmen- Teagasc launches The Young farmers must not be cut off tal ambition and many of the policies currently in place has Environment Edge podcast from a future by climate action often been regarded by farmers he Environment Edge will focus on challenges and opportunities as a major obstacle to any envi- in agriculture. Presented by Cathal Somers and Deirdre Glynn acra na Feirme’s Na- other sector,” stated President are laid out in the government’s ronmental improvement. from Teagasc, this podcast will bring the latest information, tional President has Thomas Duffy. Ag-Climatise strategy and the “The most essential thing Tscience and opinion on farm sustainability. said young farmers Macra na Feirme stated divi- Teagasc MACC. However, Irish government can do is to In the first episode of the podcast, Jenny Deakin, Environment Mmust be put at the front of any sive rhetoric around mandatory concerns have been raised by offer support for change and re- Protection Agency (EPA), joins Cathal and Deirdre to discuss the past, present and future of water quality in Ireland and how climate change action on climate change with herd culls or a return to herd the young farmer organisation move the many roadblocks and contradictions to more climate will challenge us all. clear supports. limits were entirely unproduc- about the potential success In the second half of the podcast, Teagasc’s Head of Environment In response to the publication tive, saying the focus must be of these unless key issues are friendly agriculture,“ President Duffy said. Knowledge Transfer, Pat Murphy, explains why he believes farmers are today of the Climate Action on reducing methane not herd addressed. up to the challenge of improving water quality through research, adviso- The loss of products, which and Low Carbon Development numbers. Better herd manage- “If we want to change ry, education, collaboration and improved efficiency on the farm. (Amendment) Bill 2021, Pres- ment, livestock genetics and practices the first thing we protect certain crops, such as Speaking about the challenges facing agriculture, Pat Murphy said: ident Thomas Duffy has said reducing breeding and slaughter must do is look at the makeup Irish grown protein feeds and “It has become clear that the environmental footprint of agriculture that the challenges facing agri- ages can achieve significant of farming. Less than five per clover, while reducing weeds must be reduced. This entails reducing gaseous emissions, improving culture can only be overcome reductions in national methane cent of farmers are under the have been highlighted as a lack water quality and enhancing biodiversity. In Ireland, agriculture has a by supporting young farmers to emissions, while protecting age of 35, this is because young of consistence between govern- profound impact on the environment. A huge amount of research has adopt new practices. farm incomes. Further measures trained farmers are not able to ment intent and practice on the provided us with a good understanding of these impacts, as well as “The comments by Minis- such as changing to protected access the land or credit they ground. The failure to promote providing an insight into technologies and farming systems which can reduce gaseous emissions, lead to improved water quality, reduce bio- ter Ryan that farming cannot urea, reductions in feed protein need. If you want to change under 16 month bull beef or en- diversity loss and improve soil health. While further research is needed, reduce in the same way as and better incorporation of practice, young driven farmers sure investment in sexed semen are also highlighted as lacking there is now an urgent requirement to improve the implementation of energy or transport is welcome, clover have all been shown to are what is needed,” President practices that improve environmental outcomes.” in government policy. the complexities of our food reduce nitrous oxide emissions. Duffy stated. Subscribe on Apple Podcasts; Spotify; or go to www.teagasc.ie system are far greater than any Many of these key elements Inconsistency between 22 April 2 – April 29, 2021 people Environment : Making a difference To cow or not to cow: That is the question destroyed; it is a flow gas. Dr Frank Mitloehner... Nevertheless it is important that we do not significantly increase focuses his research on methane emissions into the how to feed livestock atmosphere. One of the main reasons we better such that they are being urged to plant trees, produce less methane. is that plants (all plants, not It appears for instance just trees) sequester carbon by removing carbon dioxide (CO2) that certain supplements ENVIRONMENTAL from the air, absorbing the made from seaweed MATTERS carbon and harnessing the sun’s reduce the methane pro- energy through photosynthesis duced by a single cow Fiona Hayes to produce cellulose and thus to grow. The Oxygen, O2 is re- by up to 67 per cent. leased back into the atmosphere. Cellulose is essentially a have been lacto-ovo vege- carbohydrate and is the most tarian for 43 years. I have abundant organic compound in the advantage of not really ner, who has been called a the world. Present in all grasses, Ienjoying eating meat and of controversial figure because shrubs, crops, and trees, it is an finding it difficult to digest, so of his links to animal agricul- important food source. Cellulose switching to a meat-free diet ture, states that he does not tell content is particularly high in was relatively simple for me and people what to eat, nor does he grasses and shrubs found on I continue to eat dairy products judge them for those choices; marginal lands, which are places and eggs. he focuses his research on how where grains and other human Talking to someone about to feed livestock better such edible crops cannot grow. Two- farming the other day, I discov- that they produce less methane. thirds of all agricultural land is It takes 1000 years for CO2 diet. All of these amino acids are almonds and four of these pesti- ered they had stopped eating It appears for instance that marginal, full of cellulose dense released from the burning of found in animal protein but in cides are toxic to bees. any meat or dairy products certain supplements made from grasses that are indigestible fossil fuels to be re-deposited order to obtain them from plant Once the bees have been because of Climate Change. seaweed reduce the methane to humans but a major food back into geological reserves. sources we must mix our protein transported via truck or plane They had switched to almond produced by a single cow by up ingredient for ruminants such as That is ten times as long as sources. For example we must into California each year and milk and vegan cheese made to 67 per cent. He argues that cattle who can break it down. As it takes methane belched by mix nuts or beans and peas with have done their job and died from almonds. cutting out all animal protein the cattle break down the cellu- cattle to be re-deposited back grain. If we fail to mix our plant from toxic pesticides, the Indeed, research indicates that may not be the environmental lose, they emit a portion of the into plant matter. To put this in proteins we fail to absorb the almonds have been produced each year a single cow can belch panacea that many would have carbon into the atmosphere as perspective, the CO2 released full range of essential building and now need to be distributed 220 pounds of methane, which us believe. CH4, methane gas, thus return- from driving your car to work blocks for protein that keeps us across the USA and the World. is 28 times more potent than I suspect that producing ing the carbon sequester by the each day will remain in the healthy and thriving. It takes 70,000 kilos of fossil carbon dioxide in warming the and eating animal based food plants back into the atmosphere. atmosphere, having a warming The plant protein sources that fuel to fly a jumbo jet across atmosphere. In fact livestock are products will continue to be Ten to twelve years on, that effect on our climate, for longer we can digest and that we need, the Atlantic from New York to responsible for 14.5 per cent of controversial for some however, methane reaches the end of its than the lifetimes of you, your grains, pulses and nuts cannot London. Suddenly the Carbon global greenhouse gases. as the case of almond milk be grown on marginal lands that footprint of a pint of almond versus dairy demonstrates, we Whilst there are claims that can grow grasses, high in cellu- milk or a hundred grams of veg- grass fed beef helps the land really need to dig and dig to find It takes 1000 years for CO2 released from the lose and good food for cattle. an cheese has risen dramatically. the facts behind our choices. to sequester carbon and so is According to Fortune Mag- Whilst Dr Frank Mitloeh- better for the planet, there are burning of fossil fuels to be re-deposited back into azine the market for almond counter claims that the methane geological reserves. That is ten times as long as it milk surged by 250 per cent produced by cattle more than between 2010 and 2015 and has offsets the sequestration of takes methane belched by cattle to be re-deposited continued to rise. So, to the pop- carbon from grassland. back into plant matter. To put this in perspective, ular discussion about stopping Dr Frank Mitloehner, the the CO2 released from driving your car to work climate change by substituting director of the department of dairy products with almond animal science at the CLEAR each day will remain in the atmosphere, having a products. (Clarity and Leadership for warming effect on our climate, for longer than the Eighty per cent of the world’s Environmental Awareness and lifetimes of you, your children, and your grand- almonds are grown in Califor- Research) Centre at UC Davis, nia! California, and a professor and children. The burning of fossil fuels has a long- S P I will state that again. Eighty air quality specialist, believes standing impact on our climate, whereas methane per cent of the world’s almonds that removing animal-based from cattle is part of a short-term biogenic carbon are grown in California. product from our diets would According to the Almond ECOCIDE not solve the problem of the cycle. Board of California production effect of greenhouse gas on is growing at six per cent per climate change. Research from year and will be three billion change the law 2017 demonstrates that if the atmospheric life and is broken children, and your grandchil- pounds of almonds this year, whole population of America down and converted back to dren. The burning of fossil fuels 2021. Exported almonds ac- switched to vegan diets, it CO2, to once again be used by has a longstanding impact on count for 70 per cent of the crop. would reduce Green House Gas plants to create cellulose; and our climate, whereas methane Almond blossom is pollinated emissions in the USA by a mere thus the biogenic carbon cycle from cattle is part of a short- by bees and California requires 2.6 per cent, yet 89 per cent continues as a relatively fast term biogenic carbon cycle. two million hives of bees. More of CO2 emissions come from cycle. So back to food for humans. than 70 per cent of all com- the fossil fuel industry. What is On the other hand the carbon In order to live healthily humans mercial honeybee colonies in more, whereas methane, pro- exchange between the atmo- need 21 amino acids. These are the USA are used to pollinate duced by cattle, has a relatively sphere and geological reserves the building blocks of protein. almond orchards and almost short atmospheric life, around such as deep soils, the deeper Some of these amino acids we all the hives are brought in to 12 years, CO2 stays in the atmo- ocean, and rocks takes 1000 can synthesise in our bodies, California from across states or sphere, building and building for or more years, thus extraction however there are nine ‘essential from other countries. Each year hundreds of years. and burning of fossil fuels has amino acids’ which we cannot the bees have to be replaced The significance of this a much greater impact on our synthesise in large enough because of the pesticides used short atmospheric life is that as climate than the biogenic carbon quantities rapidly enough, and on almond trees. Nine different www.stopECOCIDE.earth bio-methane (from animals) is cycle. so we must get these from our pesticides have been found in @ecocidelaw being emitted, it is also being April 2 – April 29, 2021 23 people Environment : Making a difference The Common Swift: ‘Life on the Wing’ Of all the species in the animal kingdom, birds can The Common Swift (Apus apus) is another of these lay claim to some of the most incredible feats of ‘high achievers’, explains Claire Deasy, West physical achievement; whether it’s the Peregrine Cork Swift Officer,holding the record for the Falcon, the fastest animal in the world with a fastest bird in level flight at 111.6kmh and living its diving speed of 389kmh, or the incredible annual whole life on the wing, stopping only to nest and 90,000km migration of the Arctic Tern, as it flies rear its young. According to new research, Com- from its Arctic breeding grounds to Antarctica and mon Swifts can stay in the air for up to 10 months back again. without stopping.

and apparently disappear into thin air! This is not a vanishing act. When rearing young, Swifts approach their nests at over 60kmh. They fold their body down from the neck and use it as a massive air brake in order to enter the nest hole. Swifts are site-faithful and colonial nesters, meaning they will return to the same nest wifts are part of a very site for many years and like ancient family, the Apodi- to nest in groups. As supreme dae (meaning ‘footless’); aerialists, Swifts spend most of Sthat is thought to have separated their lives in flight; drinking, they can hold a push-up for ten from all other birds 65 million feeding, mating, preening and seconds and weigh about 45g, years ago. The Common Swift even sleeping ‘on the wing’. they are ready to fly away. This is sooty brown all over, but How and when they sleep is not training regime is vital; a young appears black in flight and has fully understood. One idea is Swift will leave its nest at six to long sickle-shaped wings and a that they take brief naps during eight weeks of age, and its tiny short forked tail. It is sometimes daily dawn and dusk ascents feet won’t touch the earth again mistaken for a Swallow, but to altitudes of 3,000m or more, for at least two years. the Swift lacks the off-white after which they gradually glide The call of the Swift is a loud renovation and demolition of and community groups such again; and thus their territory undersides and long tail of down. Another is that, like scream. On a balmy summer old buildings where Swifts nest as Tidy Towns, the Branch has continues to shrink. the Swallow and Swifts never whales, they switch off half evening who can resist the is a key factor. Another is the been surveying Swift nest sites If you would like to help out perch. their brain for short periods. The sheer energy and vibrancy of a worldwide decline in insects, its across the towns and villages of with these Swift conservation Swifts migrate from Africa Swift uses its incredible flying Swift party, as they display their main food source. This is due West Cork. Now, with the help efforts by volunteering for every spring, arriving here skills when hunting for food. flying skills by careering and to the destruction and clearance of funding from Cork County surveys, sponsoring a Swift in May to start their summer These birds can consume half- screaming above buildings and of the wild habitats that support Council, Tidy Towns Groups Nest box, or if you think your breeding season. They pair for a-million flying insects during along streets within towns and insects and also the widespread and individual sponsors, over building would be suitable for life and only stay here for two their summer stay in Ireland. villages. Luckily, here in West use of insecticides. 30 Swift nest-boxes have been a nest-box, please get in touch to three months, departing by They are also the perfect house Cork, this is still a regular oc- What can we do? Lots acquired. Because Swifts like to with Claire Deasy, West Cork late August. Very much a town guest, making little or no mess. currence in some of our towns. thankfully, and it’s happening nest where other Swifts are al- Swift Officer, at the following bird, it builds little cupped nests Parents even eat their own Despite surviving tens of right here on our West Cork ready established, conservation email address swiftproject@ inside small crevices or eaves of chicks’ droppings (to recycle millions of years on this planet, doorstep! Birdwatch Ireland is key. Towns like Clonakilty, birdwatchirelandwestcork.ie buildings with materials such as mineral content). Please don’t today the Swift is sadly in West Cork Branch started the Ballydehob, Bandon, Bantry, For more information about feathers and grass that it finds try this at home! Swift chicks serious decline. Swift popula- West Cork Swift Project in Dunmanway and Skibbereen, the Branch contact Nicholas on the wing. Unlike Swallows, display early signs of their tions are falling dramatically 2019, with the aim of identify- that are lucky enough to still Mitchell at secretary@bird- Swifts do not nest on the out- future elite athleticism, as they across the globe and in Ireland ing nesting colonies and helping have nesting Swifts, should watchirelandwestcork.ie or join side of buildings. A tell-tale sign get ready to leave the nest. They the trend is no different. Since to erect nest-boxes nearby to do all they can to hold on to our mailing list by sending an that a Swift has a nest is when train by doing push-ups on their 2008 numbers have declined by encourage further nesting. With them. Once they leave an area, email to mailinglist@bird- you see it dive at high speed wings and tails to make them 40 per cent. A number of factors the help of local volunteers it’s very hard to get them back watchirelandwestcork.ie. towards the eaves of a house strong enough for flight. Once are contributing to this: the More resources and funding needed to research and deal with beached whales There have recently een. It is not unusual at n most cases samples are ligent response to dealing with out, but this requires expertise, Our Wild Atlantic Way is taken for the Irish Whale and learning from these marine a dedicated service, and funded known all over the world, but been many reports of this time of year but it and Dolphin Group (IWDG) fatalities that are washing up on skills. We need a designated we know very little about it and dead marine mammals is always a terrible sight Iand the whale is either left our shores. What knowledge is research area to carry out this for an island nation, this is a real turning up dead along to see. What happens where it is or removed by the being lost? What research is not research. blind spot that needs new focus council who have no expertise being done? When death comes to our and vision. It is time to make the Irish coast. We sadly to the carcass? This is other than to dispose of the The state, if we are serious shores, we owe it to the health West Cork a place of the whale, saw a young Humpback a problem we need to carcass by incineration. This is about becoming guardians of of our marine life to discover the a place of the dolphin, and not a sad, tragic fate, as well as very our seas, must provide more causes, learn about trends that are just for photos or videos but for whale come ashore near resolve. Rory Jackson, resources and funding to it’s own emerging, and feed this research deeper research into these lives insensitive approach to the life agencies and to coastal NGOs. back into better policies and that could tell us so much about Lowertown, Schull, Cork South West Green of these mammals and we are In most cases, the deaths of these better practices. In West Cork, the world that is washing up and then most recently Party representative, on not learning anything about why cetaceans are caused by being we are used to seeing such death. against us daily. a young Beaked Whale the problem posed by they have died. caught and drowned in fishing It is time that we use these tragic As we begin the process of washed up on Tragum- beached whales. gear. This is not difficult to estab- occurrences to learn and educate creating Marine Protected Areas, lish when an autopsy is carried ourselves. na beach near Skibber- we need also to create an intel- 24 April 2 – April 29, 2021 people Environment : Making a difference Forgotten children since the war in Syria began. refuge mainly in neighbouring Few will forget the shocking countries – Turkey, Lebanon, scenes of extensive parts of Jordan, Iraq and Egypt. At its Aleppo, a once beautiful Syrian peak in 2016, almost 500,000 of city, razed to the ground. The those registered Syrian refugees images of human trauma were in refugee camps. That fig- and decimation were hard to ure now stands at an unaccept- process. What’s even more able 300,000. Most disturbing difficult to believe though, is of all, around half of the people the extent of suffering that is affected by the long-term refu- still impacting the lives of those gee crisis are children. most uprooted by the carnage The European Parliament this brutal conflict has left in its recently adopted a Resolution wake. on Children’s Rights, as well Whether because of (conflict- as a resolution on Syria, which GROUNDED ing) reports that the war may included a Greens/EFA amend- An occasional column by be drawing to a conclusion, or ment calling for the repatria- Grace O’Sullivan – mother, crisis fatigue, or other reasons, tion of children who are EU environment and peace the situation in Syria is not citizens. The conflict in Syria is activist, ecologist, MEP hitting the headlines these days, a complex one, encompassing Syrian refugee camp. Pic: Julie Ricard on Unsplash. the way it did when footage of social, racial, religious and Grace, a mother of three from the human and infrastructural human-rights issues. When chil- While we worry about vac- of movement, many children words of UNICEF: ‘a unique Tramore, Co.Waterford, spent 20 devastation being wreaked dren, the most innocent victims, cine rollouts and keeping each and their families are living opportunity to make child rights years working with Greenpeace and on the country first reached are still unwittingly caught up was a crewmember of the Rainbow other safe, these children are in cramped refugee camps in part of the political agenda of Warrior, when it was bombed by the our screens. The hardship and in this chaotic and upsetting dealing not just with the added makeshift tents and structures, the EU, of its policies, actions French Foreign Intelligence Service trauma in the region – that still environment, something more impacts of Covid-19 hitting where they have spent the past and investments with a holistic, in 1985. She served as a Senator for continues at an alarming rate – than talk and resolutions and their already hard-stretched decade battling to survive one comprehensive and rights-based three years, before being elected to doesn’t look set to end any time good intentions needs to come families, but with a backdrop of after another cripplingly cold approach. ‘ the European Parliament, where soon. into play. years of physical and emotional winter without adequate heat or With the EU hopefully she is a proactive and outspoken In a current population of In our amendment we called member of important commit- distress. It’s hard to imagine nutrition. making child rights a stronger 17.8 million (down from over on EU Member States to tees on Fisheries (PECH), and the depths of psychological Under the terms of the UN part of the political agenda, Environment, Public Health and 21 million before the war), an take into account the specific damage. Convention on the Rights of the and children and refugee rights Food Safety (ENVI). She is also a estimated 6.7 million people are situations and the best inter- Many Syrian children living Child, every child in the world being very much on the political member of delegations on Mercosur displaced within the country, in- ests of the child as a primary through these trying times have under the age of 18 is entitled agenda back home in Ireland, and Palestine, and a member of a cluding up to 280,000 Palestine consideration, and to provide already lost family members to equal rights around civil, I’m making a personal appeal number of working groups. She refugees, already displaced and the necessary support for their and friends and neighbours in political, social, economic and that we might all try to put the is Spokesperson on suffering long-term hardship. rehabilitation and reintegration Environmental Protection, Natural violent circumstances. Many cultural rights. These are rights plight of children displaced and Resources, Marine and Tourism. Of Syrians still in the country, in full compliance with interna- have to work to help their fami- they are entitled to irrespective forced to become refugees in over 11 million need human- tional law. lies get by in the most impov- of their religion, ethnicity, response to the Syrian conflict, itarian assistance. Over 12.4 For many Syrian children, erished circumstances. Many gender, migration status, sexual on our own, personal agendas. s the restrictions, hard- million are food insecure, with their entire lives have been are subjected to degrading or orientation or any other status. For those who can afford it, ships and widespread 1.3 million being severely food lived under the ominous cloud dangerous work, and forced Under the terms of the agencies such as Concern, Irish global tragedy of insecure. Malnutrition is a ma- of conflict. But it’s not just the to make impossible choices to Treaty on European Union, the Red Cross, UNICEF and the ACovid-19 continues, this week jor health problem, with many obvious hardships this presents, accomplish a meagre surviv- protection of children’s rights is World Food Programme are I’ve been looking at an area of children suffering from acute with children being denied al. There are reports of child fundamental and guaranteed. In calling for donations to support such particular poignancy, it malnutrition. childhoods or any semblance marriage and abuse. There is reality, more needs to be done. their work on the ground. But has thrown some perspective on Over the course of the of normal life. The impacts lack of education, with one third The new EU Strategy on the even if your own finances the limitations and challenges conflict, the UN reports that 6.6 are deeper, with issues such of the school age population out Rights of the Child, published in are stretched in these trying we, in developed and peaceful million Syrians were forced to as disease and malnutrition of school. recent days, commits to support, times, you can help by raising countries, have been contending flee their country. Of those, ap- brought on by poor sanitation While we complain about protect and empower children awareness of this heart-breaking with. proximately 5.6 million Syrians and outbreaks of life-threaten- the hardships of being confined globally, including during crisis situation. Thank you. March 15 marked 10 years are refugees, who have found ing diseases like cholera. to our homes and a 5km radius and conflict. It offers, in the West Cork Tree Future-focused climate action bill Festival launched est Cork Branch of Cork Nature Network is delighted approved by cabinet to announce the launch of their six-month long West abinet has approved Chair of the Climate Action their concerns during the com- carbon budgets – which include Cork Tree Festival 2021, which runs from March to the revised Climate Committee. mittee phase. limits on how much carbon WSeptember and includes a range of exciting activities and discus- Action Bill, proposed “Compared to the version “I’m thinking here about can be emitted per sector – are sions on the importance and value of trees and how they impact on Clegislation that will strengthen we had in November, this bill movements like Friday’s for Fu- required to be consistent with our heritage and our every day lives. Ireland’s response to climate is vastly improved. Key among ture and other passionate young the Paris climate agreement. Activities organised for the festival include: the West Cork Tree change, Cork South West the changes is that Ireland will voices. This bill is a commit- “If you look at it, half the Map, the West Cork Tree Charter, in which anyone will be able to Deputy and Fianna Fáil climate not just pursue, but will also ment to them that we are serious planet is on fire and the other contribute their ideas, principles, and thoughts for a new Charter spokesman Christopher O’Sul- achieve carbon neutrality by about tackling climate change half is under water. Look at the and the Festival Closure Conference on September 25. livan says. 2050. and decreasing greenhouse fires and floods in Australia. “People love trees and woodlands and value them in so many The bill was approved by “A goal of a 51 percent gasses. Texas froze over this winter,” ways. They can provide so many things from fruit, timber, to cabinet on Tuesday last week reduction by 2030, one of the “I really hope this bill goes Deputy O’Sullivan said. all the biodiversity that thrives around them, to a feeling of following months of scrutiny in most ambitious on the planet, through the Oireachtas as soon “You don’t have to go too far well-being” explains one of the organisers, Mark Robins. “In this committee. has also been set. The Bill also as possible so we can achieve afield to see what’s happening six-months Festival the West Cork Branch of the Cork Nature “The way I see it, this is the has provisions for protecting our targets.” before our eyes. Villages are Network is planning activities for everyone who wants to share, important bill to come before biodiversity. It’s just such an The legislation will pave the experiencing floods and coastal enjoy and learn about trees and we hope all contribute to a better the 33rd Dáil. Today is one of important occasion.” way for Ireland’s first carbon erosion. future for our trees and woods.” the best days for climate action Deputy O’Sullivan paid budget to be introduced later Public consultation about in this country,” said Deputy homage to the passionate youth this year. the Bill will run for eight-weeks Visit www.corknaturenetwork.ie for more details. O’Sullivan, who is also Vice voices who reached out with Under the legislation all until May 18. April 2 – April 29, 2021 25 people Environment : Making a difference Cork households going green with Tru Eco Cork households are Reduce the amount of seeking a safer and product you use - “just add a drop” NEW kinder way to clean There is no need to use a gen- their homes. erous squirt and we often use more than we need of products ivaGreen, the Irish such as washing-up liquid, manufacturers of laundry detergent, and cleaners. Tru Eco, a range of This will save you money and Veco-friendly, refillable house- reduce your carbon footprint as hold and laundry cleaning well and your plastic footprint products, has seen significant on our planet. demand for their products since launching the range in 2020. Use laundry liquid instead The Tru Eco range is made of laundry powder from plant-based and biode- There are fillers in laundry pow- gradable ingredients and each ders that can cause clogging bottle is made from 100% recy- in the treatment process and cled plastic, creating a circular prevent the wastewater from economy product that is reus- being treated properly. The able, recyclable, and refillable. tal footprint, minimise plastic Scientist in VivaGreen, who en- effects of this are likely to have Products include an All-Purpose waste as well as lower their sures sustainable practices and a greater impact on those with Cleaner, Washing-Up Liquid, carbon emissions.” naturally derived ingredients are on-site septic tanks but fillers Non-Bio Laundry Detergent, He adds: “We have been in central to the product develop- also increase the sludge burden and Fabric Conditioner. business for over 25 years, and ment, has provided her top 3 at larger treatment plants which Russell Walsh, Joint Manag- delighted to see an increase of tips for a greener household: must be separated, transported, ing Director, VivaGreen says: environmental awareness in re- and sometimes heat or chemi- “People are actively looking cent years. Awareness days such Reduce the number of cally treated. Then the sludge for eco-friendly solutions. The as Earth Day, the world’s largest single-use plastic bottles in is transported once more for feedback from our Tru Eco environmental movement, your household land application. Using laundry customers has been fantastic which is celebrated this month Choose products that have a liquid helps to reduce these with lots of interest in the refill on April 22, have gathered huge refill option, and even better energy-intensive processes. Available in SuperValu & Re ll Stores option, which is very encourag- momentum. These awareness if they are eco-products. Use www.VivaGreen.ie ing. We work hard to develop days give the media and organi- all-purpose cleaners for the The Tru Eco range is available products that meet peoples’ sations opportunities to educate kitchen, bathrooms, and floor. in Cork SuperValu stores and needs, while also trying to pro- people about environmental Go back to basics if you are nationwide with refill stations tect the environment. By buying issues and on how we can all do ready and use soda crystals and dotted around Cork. Visit true- the Tru Eco range, consumers our part.” vinegar to clean your floor. co.ie to find a nearby store and €500,000 funding can reduce their environmen- Dr. Anne Marie Mahon, Lead refill station. announced for link to Nature Reserve Repairing the hole in the middle Cork South West Green Party welcomes the funding The word ‘economics’ Prices are said to be ‘in an diagram, created by Professor hunger, illiteracy, insecurity and and thought poured into making for phase 1 of the new link to equilibrium’ when ‘supply and Kate Raworth, who calls herself voicelessness.” She wrote that people healthier (physically as Glengariff Nature Reserve. makes many people’s demand are balanced’. Wiki- “a renegade economist focused in 2017 when business as usual well as mentally). Local and re- This will begin the process eyes glaze over. It all pedia texts wax lyrical about on making economics fit for was expected to continue for the gional conversations about what of constructing a safe pedes- sounds so…abstract: a ‘perfect market’ under the 21st century realities”. Just foreseeable future. Our ‘now’ people want and need, including trian and cycle link between heading ‘perfect competition’. like that eternal growth fantasy looks very different. for their environment… Glengariff Village and Glen- Aggregate demand, Looking at those pages, you’d curve, the picture tells us what What to do? Does anyone Perhaps not purely coinciden- gariff Nature Reserve. Keynesianism, nega- say we live in a perfect world an economy should (and hope- have a clue what a vital and tally, the government has just More than €6 million has tive deflationary spiral, with (eternal) economic growth fully could) be like. No longer a ‘better’ economy would look started up a Climate Conversa- been announced for 14 large- as the greatest good. Except we money-generating machine for like? Thankfully, Kate Raworth tion online that invites people scale projects under Measure fractionally higher don’t. the (happy?) few but a circular does. She has provided us with to share their views on the 3 of the Outdoor Recreation highs, liquidity pref- The economy is like a wilful- sweet spot for the many in another graph that might help upcoming Climate Action Plan Infrastructure Scheme. The erences But what does ly blind and amoral many-head- wholesome green. repair the hole in the middle and that is meant to mitigate the investment involves a signif- ed monster that has the world in But how do we get there? the devastation at the edges: A climate crisis. The website also icant development of many all that have to do with a stranglehold. Raworth shows us, in hazardous network of flows. sports a jargon buster. of our most popular outdoor real life? Everything of It turns a blind eye to greed. red, the deficiencies that are “Imagery is incredibly Sounds good. Let’s hope amenities such as trails, course explains Moze It ignores the need for (and glaringly obvious under the cur- powerful,” she states. So let’s it will translate into real and walkways, cycleways, and needs of) a healthy community rent economic system. On the imagine a thriving economy meaningful action. blueways throughout Ireland. Jacobs. It is in total denial when it outside it shows the dangers of consisting of numerous (and The crunch is not what “This is an excellent comes to the state of the ‘moth- living beyond nature’s means. mutually connected) local eco- well-meaning, socially-inclined, investment for Glengariff t’s the language of industry er of all resources’: nature. The gaping hole in the nomic and community hubs. heart-centred people think and West Cork and will leaders, investors, finance Nature is an externality to the middle signifies Food grown locally should happen. The crunch is not just attract tourists but ministers, central and other so-called science of economics. areas of indi- (and chemical-free), whether governments all over will provide an excellent out- Ibankers who have a huge effect door recreation facility for It doesn’t count. Its destruction vidual depri- local employment the world will be prepared (and on jobs, prices and health, not isn’t factored in. It’s visible vation. In opportunities able) to make big business and everyone in the locality. It to mention the environment that all over the world (just think Raworth’s identified dictatorships walk the walk. is very welcome to see such we inhabit. Apart from words, splintered rainforest, dead words, (what services The West Cork Doughnut investment in West Cork they also make extensive use of orangutans, polar bears in a sea “Many would local Economy Network welcomes and we will be looking for visuals. Charts. Graphs. Prices of trash). But it’s nowhere to be millions of people value?), your views. Contact: westcork- more projects like this to be going up and down. Supply and seen in those economic graphs. people still waste recycled doughnuteconomynetwork@ funded in the coming years,” demand. That’s why we (as the West lack life’s and reused (so gmail.com. said Rory Jackson, Cork This creates a seemingly safe Cork Doughnut Economy essentials, liv- it becomes a South West Green Party world, which is completely Network) like the doughnut ing daily with resource). Money representative. illusory…and all about maths. 26 April 2 – April 29, 2021 people Environment : Making a difference Pesticides detected in several drinking water supplies in County Cork

Public urged to consider (MCPA, 2,4-D, Fluroxypyr products to consider the vulner- benefits. For example, leaving aims to minimise the use of tive that users of pesticides are and Mecoprop exceedances), ability of the water supplies to areas unsprayed can help native pesticides. More information on mindful of best practice when the environment and Glashaboy (MCPA, Mecoprop pesticide contamination and the flowering plant species to grow this can be obtained from your using herbicides or pesticides alternatives to pesti- and Triclopyr exceedances), importance of these supplies to and support a range of insects local farm advisor or on www. and seek out alternatives.” cides when gardening, Glengarriff (Triclopyr exceen- the local homes and businesses including bees and other vital pcs.agriculture.gov.ie/sud/wa- Adding to this, Dr Aidan dance) and (Glypho- in the community. pollinators. One third of Ire- terprotection Moody, DAFM and Chair of farming and maintain- sate exceedance). Irish Water, working in land’s bee species are threatened The efforts to reduce the NPDWAG commented: “The ing sports grounds The Bantry/Cahernacrin partnership with a range of with extinction and by helping incidence and level of these continued engagement of all water supply abstracts raw organisations involved in the bee population survive detections are being coordinated stakeholders, working in part- xceedances for pesticides water from the Inchilough the NPDWAG, is asking the and thrive we are also helping by the NPDWAG. This group nership, is needed to tackle this including MCPA, 2,4-D, river and Drombrow lake, farming community, greens to protect our precious water is chaired by the DAFM. All of issue. Users of pesticides should Mecoprop, Fluroxypyr, part of the Inchilough river keepers, grounds keepers, and sources. For more information the key stakeholders are repre- always consider alternatives EGlyphosate and Triclopyr were catchment; the water domestic users, to consider in on practical ways to help bees sented in this group and include in the first instance and if the all detected in water supplies supply abstracts raw water from each case whether they need to and other pollinators, check out other Government departments application of pesticides are in County Cork in 2019 and Coolquesk Bridge, Kilquana use pesticides at all. Minimising the All-Ireland Pollinator Plan and agencies; local authorities; considered essential make sure 2020. These exceedances were Bridge, Butlerstown and the pesticide use not only helps at www.pollinators.ie. industry representative bodies; that they are aware of the best detected as part of Irish Water’s Butlerstown river tributary, to protect water quality but Where pesticide use is farming organisations; water practice measures that should public water supply monitoring part of the Butlerstown River also has wider environmental considered necessary, the sector organisations; and ameni- be followed to protect water programme. catchment; the Glashaboy water NPDWAG is working with the ty sector organisations. quality.” The National Pesticides and supply abstracts raw water from community to ensure that best Deirdre O’Loughlin, Irish Recent drinking water mon- Drinking Water Action Group the Glashaboy river, part of the practice measures to protect Water’s Regional Drinking Wa- itoring results for Ireland show (NPDWAG) is asking users of Glashaboy river catchment; drinking water sources and bio- ter Compliance Specialist said: that a number of active sub- any herbicide, or pesticide prod- the Glengarriff water supply diversity are always followed. “In County Cork, there were ex- stances contained in herbicide ucts to consider the vulnerabil- abstracts raw water from the Farmers and other landholders ceedances of the drinking water products used in agriculture, ity of their local drinking water Barony river, part of the Barony dealing with the challenge of regulations for MCPA, 2,4-D, amenity and gardens, such as supplies to pesticide contamina- river catchment and the Mac- tackling rushes should note that Fluroxypr, Mecoprop, Triclopyr 2,4-D, Fluroxypyr, Glypho- tion and the importance of these room water supply abstracts the Department of Agriculture, and Glyphosate in public water sate, MCPA, Mecoprop and supplies to the local homes and raw water from the River Food and the Marine (DAFM) supplies following routine sam- Triclopyr, are being regularly businesses in the community. Sullane, part of the has developed new guidance pling. While our consultation detected. In Cork, the water supplies catchment. As these catchments on the sustainable management with the HSE concluded that the with pesticide exceedances are vulnerable to runoff from of rushes. The new approach levels seen did not represent a were Bantry/Cahernacrin land, Irish Water is asking users is based on the concepts of threat to public health, they are (MCPA exceedance), Glanmire of any herbicide or pesticide containment or suppression and undesirable, and it is impera- BEAG branches out during National Tree Week

EAG, Bandon Environ- into native woodland – the space and removal of hedgerows and mental Action Group, is will also include an orchard and a woods, this beauty was slowly a relatively new group wildflower meadow. disappearing from the landscape. Bto Bandon but one that has deep Throughout this project BEAG Now, we can be assured of a rich roots in the community. BEAG, has always had the help and sup- legacy of improved air quality, as which aims to assist in making a port of local groups; in particular trees soak up carbon dioxide and positive contribution to its local the Tidy Towns group but other emit oxygen, as well as providing community on a range of issues local groups also helped out: improved habitats for our birds that affect the environment, used Bandon Allotments, Bike Friend- and wildlife and bees. The National Tree Week last month as ly Bandon, Bandon Sustainable biodiversity of the Bandon area, an opportunity to introduce itself Energy Communities, Creative long a renowned wooded river to the wider community and tell Bandon and Sustainable Bandon valley will slowly improve. This people what kind of projects it to name but a few. is a worthy endeavour indeed and has thus far been involved in. Bernie Connolly, Cork Envi- I am very pleased to support the As part of The Urban Tree ronmental Forum Development Bandon Environmental Action Planting Initiative run by Trees Coordinator acommneted that Group I any way that I can.” on the Land, BEAG has already “Groups such as BEAG are not BEAG would like to remind planted over 2,000 native trees only making a difference by tak- West Cork People readers that around Bandon. With the help ing valuable action through this you can still take action to mark of Bandon Tidy Towns, the impressive tree planting initiative National Tree Week. “We can group identified three locations but are creating the collaboration give back to nature by planting in the town suitable for planting necessary in all communities to a tree, a native tree prefera- native trees and hedging. Each help address the environmental bly. It’s one of the easiest but location was different, so Niki crisis.” greatest actions you can take to Keeling from The Manch Project/ To mark the occasion of help our planet. Not only do trees Green Economy advised BEAG National Tree Week in March, create a wonderful environment throughout and assisted it in BEAG invited local public repre- for us, trees are an investment for coming up with an individual sentatives Bernie Connolly, Gil- future generations, they prevent proposal for each site: a native lian Coughlan and Sean O’Dono- flooding and soil erosion, create hedge was planted beside the van to plant a tree. Cllr Coughlan habitat, improve biodiversity, Skate Park to encourage biodiver- was delighted to support the improve air quality, create natural sity and foraging in this much initiative: “Beag may be the Irish weather barriers and improve Pictured at Bandon bypass planting trees for National Tree Week are Gillian Coughlan loved public amenity; a band of word for small but the energy, wellbeing. MCC, Sean O’Donovan MCC, Bernie Connolly Cork Environmental forum and BEAG native trees were planted along activism and ambition of this “Did you know that planting members Anna Roycroft, Wendy Bond and Geoff Dickson. Pic: Denis Boyle the bypass below the Community group is immense. As we cele- an oak tree can have a huge Hospital with full support from brate National Tree Week, I thank impact on the environment, by the HSE to provide a natural and commend Bandon Environ- providing a stable habitat for and refuge for birds and will be (Secretary), Donal O’Riordan Bandon Environmental Action noise barrier in the years to come, mental Action Group for their countless species? They are a welcome sight in your garden. (Treasurer) and Anna Roycroft Group, or get in touch at bandon. improve biodiversity, create commitment to the planting of easy to grow, will grow in most Protect and maintain hedgerows, (Communications Officer). If [email protected]. habitat and improve wellbeing for trees at various locations around locations and can live for 250- as they provide vital habitat for you would you like to become the residents at the hospital; Ban- Bandon. The beauty of trees has 300 years. Plant a Rowan tree in our local wildlife.” a member of BEAG and get don Grammar School has also long been celebrated in poetry your garden, or plant a Hawthorn BEAG members are Gef involved in a variety of projects transformed a stretch of grassland and song but with natural attrition hedge, these will provide food Dickson (Chairperson), Wendy follow them on Facebook @ April 2 – April 29, 2021 27 people Health & Lifestyle: A flavour of West Cork Mexican to go it sparked a conversation about convenient if you want to make avocados. We originally made your own refried beans – super our salsa with avocado, red easy and worth the little extra onion, tomato, fresh coriander effort and lime, which was absolutely The recipe might look yummy. The avocados were a lengthy and complicated but problem though, as they don’t really it’s just a couple of quick grow here and, although we can procedures and an assembly job. buy them the quality is unpre- This is a vegetarian recipe but dictable, so we put our thinking add cooked chicken, pulled pork caps on and decided to use kale or beef if you feel the need. A FLAVOUR OF instead. WEST CORK Right now we have a lot of Serves 4 kale in the garden. As the days RECIPE have become warmer, it has picked up and is producing like Refried Beans • 1 onion Karen Austin crazy. Kale is like a sustain- • 2-3 cloves garlic able avocado in this part of the • 400g cooked beans (1 can) world: The same high-powered • 1 tsp smoked paprika nutrients of avocados to feed (optional) yaludas (tai-uoo-das), a our bodies and brains with- • Oil to fry simple Mexican street out the air miles. It loves our Wash the kale and strip out • Juice of 2 limes and the cheese has melted. food, are sometimes climate and grows prolifically the centre stem then slice into • Handful chopped coriander You’ll probably have to do this Treferred to as Mexican pizzas Peel and chop the onion. Heat ribbons. in batches. for much of the year. It’s a little a frying pan, adding a little oil when they are served open sluggish in December but as Heat a frying pan, adding Cut the tomatoes in half, scoop Eat with hot chilli sauce. and the onions, then fry gently faced, but they are more often soon as the daylight increases enough olive oil to cover the the seeds out with a teaspoon for five to 10 minutes without folded in half and eaten on the it’s off again. bottom; turn the heat to low, add and discard then cut the tomato We’re hoping that by the time browning. go. Kale is very versatile – we the chopped garlic, fennel seeds into 1-2cm dice. you read this recipe we will Peel and chop the garlic, stir This dish, which hails from use it in so many ways – but I and chilli flakes and allow the Put all of the above into a have re-opened. We are just into the onion then cook for Oaxaca in the south of Mexico think my all time favourite is flavours to infuse for a couple bowl and gently mix together. waiting for the current Covid a couple of minutes. Add the is a delightful construction stir-fried kale. We grow soft of minutes without burning then Season with a little salt. situation to improve and the cooked beans and smoked pa- made of tortillas spread with leaf varieties such as Raggety turn the heat back up and stir government to change the prika. Mash everything together refried beans, other various fill- Jack and Asparagus kale, which in the chopped kale. Do this restrictions. We’re ready to with a fork or potato masher, Tlayudas ings-of-choice such as shredded are excellent for everything. in batches to allow the kale to go in our newly painted shop adding a little bean cooking • 4 tortilla wraps meat or crispy grasshoppers, Curly kale and Cavalo di Nero wilt down in between additions. and looking forward to see liquid or water if needed to help • 150-200g grated mozzarella then grated cheese, avocado, are more suited to cooking. All Stir-fry the kale for two to four everyone. it along.A hand held blender • Plus all of the above salad and salsa. The tortilla is of these kales work well for minutes – depending which kale Here’s to an open April! gently folded in half, like a cal- will also do this job. Season you are using. Add 1tbs water this recipe and are delicious Heat the tortillas on a dry pan zone, then cooked on a dry pan with salt. – the steam will make the kale sandwiched with refried beans so that they soften. Lay them so that the cheese melts but the relax – and you’re ready to go and cheese. out on the counter then spread Lettercollum Kitchen Project, salsa retains its fresh bite. Oaxa- The refried beans can be Stir Fried Kale with the refried beans, on one 22, Connolly Street, Clonakilty can cheese is fresh and stretchy, cooked from scratch but you • 10 large leaves of kale half put a layer of kale then 0238836938 a little salty and melts beauti- Salad/Salsa can also buy pouches or cans of • Half tsp fennel seeds • 3 ripe tomatoes add the tomato mix and grated [email protected] fully. We use mozzarella, which refried beans, which work well • Half tsp chilli flakes • 1 red onion – peeled and mozzarella. Carefully fold in www.lettercollum.ie behaves well as a substitute. and cut down the cooking time. • 1-2 cloves garlic – peeled and finely chopped half. Heat a large heavy pan lettercollumkitchenproject.com When we put Tyaludas on We cook our black beans from chopped • 1-2 chillies- finely chopped then turn the heat to low. Slip in the menu at our shop everyone scratch as we use a lot of them • 1-2tbs olive oil • 1-2 cloves garlic – peeled and the prepared tlayudas and cook thought they were delicious but but a can of black beans is very finely chopped each side until golden, crispy Come Dine with 18th Century Me f you suddenly found yourself in 1780s Cork and were asked to throw a dinner party, would you display yourself to be a woman of style and taste? Would you know how to dress and what food to Iserve? Would you be au-fait with current affairs and social etiquette? Could you successfully navigate your apothecary chest to cure your aching head the morning after? The LHQ gallery, Cork County Council Library and Arts exhibition space, is delighted to present its second virtual exhibition of 2021, ‘Come Dine With 18th Century Me’, by West Cork based artist and See designer Jenny Dempsey. ‘Come Dine with 18th Century Me’ invites the modern viewer to step back in time and take a light-hearted look at you life in 1780s Cork. By showcasing familiar activities with which we still engage, we can compare life then with life now and the unfamiliar past soon! becomes relevant. Eighteenth century Cork was an exciting place. Trade with far-flung places brought many luxuries to our shores. Exotic foods, Re-opening Tuesday April 13th! fine china, and sumptuous silks were all the rage. Previewing the virtual exhibition, Mayor of the County of Cork Cllr. Mary Linehan Foley congratulated the artist on her new work: “Jenny Dempsey offers a unique and refreshing perspective on women’s’ histo- ry. Her research is presented through beautiful artworks and engaging, humorous text. While we regret that we cannot welcome visitors into the LHQ Gallery, we hope that this virtual exhibition by the artist will connect with people in County Cork and beyond.” Visit the ‘Come Dine with 18th Century Me’ virtual exhibition at 22 CONNOLLY STREET, CLONAKILTY, WEST CORK www.comedinewith18thcenturyme.com Tel: 023 8836938 [email protected] www.lettercollum.ie 28 April 2 – April 29, 2021 people Health & Lifestyle Mindfulness in nature more at home in ourselves and seasons again and re-connected I looked up and noticed that drawing on the wonderful work more accepting of the ups and with nature. Exploring a 5km some tiny buds had appeared. It of Joanna Macy. It is my inten- downs of life. This past month radius is a never-ending adven- almost made me cry, their return tion, when things open up again, of March has been a real bench- ture if you are fortunate enough was so reassuring, bringing to re-introduce some outdoor mark, a yardstick to measure to live in a rural area, and espe- back memories of this whole mindfulness in nature sessions. how far we have come this past cially one as beautiful as West year where we had watched it Somehow, there seems year. It is a rich time to reflect Cork. If we remain curious change with the seasons – buds, nothing nicer now than a flask on the many challenges and about where we are, and what blossoms, and fruit, then death of tea or coffee sitting outside, MENTAL HEALTH losses, along with the triumphs surrounds us, no walk, swim or and decay, the cycle of life. feeling the contact of your body and gains of the past year. It is cycle ever feels the same. It is good to take a pause on the ground you’re resting & MINDFULNESS not a case of business as usual For many people I know, in- now and then, to notice how we on, listening to the sounds of now but rather adapting to a cluding myself, being in nature too have adapted and changed the birds, feeling the touch of Susan O’Regan new way of living, maybe, for has proven to be one of the most this past year. What are the the air on your face or the warm some of us, a more mindfully stable supports over the past habits that have sustained us sun, noticing any scent on the Susan O’Regan teaches mind- aware, intentional and simpler year. Because everyone was and kept us well? What new breeze, the taste of your drink. It fulness and self-compassion way of life. struggling, the natural environ- ideas or habits are budding and is the simple, precious moments courses and workshops through- When connected with nature, ment seemed sometimes like blossoming for us? Are there in life that cost so little, yet so out West Cork. there is rarely a feeling of lack the only support available and any habits or patterns that are restore and resource us if we are For more information contact: but one of abundance. Having it was still more than enough. not working for us, and that we fully present in them. Primros- susanoreganmindfulness@ grown up on a farm, I felt a The sea held us up, buoyed us, can let go of? I have recently es, newborn lambs, longer days, gmail.com Mob: 087 2700572. deep connection with nature as the trees provided solace and been marking and celebrating a new life and energy… I fully a child and young adult, and I shade, as we fell in again with full year of evening meditations agree with that opening line small group sessions are per- learned the support that nature the natural pace and rhythm of on Zoom and am so grateful to taken from a Gerard Manley sonal, down-to-earth, informal “Nothing is so beautiful as can offer and how it can hold rural life. Life slowed down and the wonderful community of Hopkins poem – there really is and donation based. Individual Spring” us up in times of grief, loss, we began to pay attention to the people who have created this nothing so beautiful as Spring, a sessions are also available. and change. Somewhere along patterns of the natural world supportive space with me. Their time of renewal and hope. For more information on he seasons remind us of the way to adulthood though, I more fully. There is a giant feedback has encouraged me to Online meditation sessions upcoming workshops and the notion of imperma- think we can disconnect from horse chestnut tree in the yard continue these online evening via Zoom will continue on online courses please like my nence, that everything nature, and, as life gets busier, of the farmhouse where I grew sessions and possibly introduce Monday, Wednesday and Friday Facebook page (Mindhaven) Tchanges, nothing stays the often from ourselves. One of the up. I had been glancing hope- one or two morning sessions. I at 8pm, please do consider or feel free to get in touch by same, and by aligning ourselves offshoots of the past year is that fully up at its bare branches for have also been hugely inspired joining in, whether you have phone: 087 2700572 or by with the seasons and the chang- many of us have become much the last few weeks, until I got lately by some online work- tried mindfulness meditation email: susanoreganmindful- es each one brings, we can be more closely attuned with the my reward last weekend when shops on engaged mindfulness, before or are new to it. These [email protected]

Controlling your blood sugar: Part 1 In part one of a three- water, our blood glucose levels that restabilising your blood rise. The immediate response in sugar. part series, Eoin Roe the body is for the pancreas to The hypothalamus releases looks at blood sugar release insulin into the blood. a hormone called CRH, which control, what can go Insulin’s job is to take any in turn stimulates the pituitary excess glucose that is not being gland to release ATCH, which wrong with this and used by the body and store it in stimulates the adrenal glands to what can be done to the liver and skeletal muscles in release three hormones adrena- help correct it. a form of glucose called glyco- line, noradrenaline and cortisol. gen and your blood glucose will These all have an action on Normal Blood Glucose control return to a normal level. the liver to release the stored The normal glucose levels in When we fast for a while, glycogen and convert it back Eoin Roe blood are controlled by inter- namely the gap in between to glucose therefore rising your Chiropractic actions between hormones and meals or when we sleep, blood blood glucose back to a normal various organs in the body. glucose levels drop. This is level. When we eat a meal, a snack, monitored by part of the brain The above is a very basic Normal blood glucose control a drink, or anything other than called the hypothalamus, which overview of the process of starts a cascade of hormones blood glucose stability. There are some other interesting how much energy your body importance but requires com- factors that will also impact on needs, these all feed back into plex interactions between many your body’s ability to handle the brain through a region called of your bodies organs. With so glucose well. In the diagram the hypothalamus and help to much happening it is easy to attached to this article it seems control blood glucose levels. understand how this system can that there is a linear progression You will hear many people go wrong. from one process to the next; supporting the idea of gut health In the next part of this series, but it is more complex than that, and the microbiome; one of the I will go over Insulin resistance with multiple communications most important reasons for this, and metabolic syndrome, which between different organs in the is that it has a role to play in are stages on the path to Type 2 body. the correct management blood Diabetes. Relief from Chronic Pain, For example when you think sugar though a hormone called Restoration of Nerve Function, about eating something sweet incretin. Incretin stimulates Eoin is a Chiropractor and endocrine glands to release Functional Medicine specialist Muscle Strength & Joint Mobility your brain will stimulate the pancreas to release insulin in insulin, glucagon and soma- working in Skibbereen. If you preparation for having that food. tostatin. Healthy incretin levels would like help to manage Clinic in Skibbereen There are other pathways that are related to having a healthy your blood sugar or any health Tel 087 958 2362 involve the relationship between microbiome and this is related problems please contact me on www.eoinroechiropractic.com the brain and the pancreas. to your diet specifically how 087 9582362. Circadian rhythms respond to much fibre is in your diet? light and dark, sleep and wake As you can see the control cycles, and have an effect on of blood sugar levels is of vital April 2 – April 29, 2021 29 people Health & Lifestyle Three West Cork schools take part in university study on alcohol education and behaviours

ver 13,000 students, mation, and the personal and into trouble with parents for way, Founder Director of including pupils from social skills they need to make Cork teenagers more likely to delay age of drinking. the Centre for Mental Health three secondary schools better decisions long term.” first drink with in-school alcohol education In contrast to the 44 per cent and Community Research at Oin West Cork, have to date “Teachers are a major touch- in third year who cited tolerant Maynooth University’s Dept. participated in Drinkaware’s point in teenagers’ lives, but we – study reveals tipping point for underage parental views regarding of Psychology said: “To date, Junior Cycle Alcohol Education are only one. It is important that drinking happens between second and alcohol, 19 per cent indicated public policy on alcohol has Programme (JC AEP) which alcohol education comes from third year. that their parents do not like to primarily focused on older teen- was the subject of the three-year all angles – from the home, see them drinking, and 17 per agers. However, our research longitudinal study carried out from peers, and from the wider cent of those in third year who clearly indicates that we need by Maynooth University. community.” had not started drinking cited to engage with our children at a This significant study, for the Increase in intent not to drink concerns over their parents’ re- much earlier age. The collective first time, tracks first to third and improved understanding of action as a deterrent to drinking. findings of this study suggest year students’ experiences of impact of alcohol consumption The findings on the views of that Drinkaware’s Alcohol alcohol education in Ireland in on health teachers reflected a general con- Education Programme is a real time. As the national charity The report found that as the sensus that parents or guardians useful, feasible and high quality working to reduce and prevent students progressed through should take primary respon- programme that is successfully alcohol misuse in Ireland, the JC AEP, the proportion sibility for alcohol education engaging and empowering Drinkaware commissioned who expressed no intention or (63pc) and, that they either were young people to develop sus- Maynooth University’s Centre interest in drinking, rose from not fulfilling this role or needed tained improvements in knowl- for Mental Health and Com- 30 per cent in first year to 54 per support to do so. edge, awareness, understanding, munity Research to investigate cent in third year. The findings With regard to the participat- confidence and appropriate the programme’s effectiveness also show that participation ing students and teachers’ views decision-making skills around and, in particular, its primary led to substantial and sustained of the JC AEP, the study reveals the consumption of alcohol prevention goal to delay the age improvements in students’ consistently high proportions The results also highlight the of first drink. knowledge and understanding of students in each year of the important role that parents play The programme involves of alcohol when compared with evaluation, rated the JC AEP in protecting and educating their eight to 10 lessons delivered on pre-programme delivery data. highly, for example 63pc of children on alcohol, and a need a weekly or fortnightly basis Students’ knowledge of students in Year 3 rated it as to provider better support to by the trained teacher and to the impact of alcohol on ‘excellent’, ‘very good’ or them in this regard”. date 134 schools have under- overall health and wellbeing ‘good’. Sixty per cent also said Commenting on the next taken the programme including increased substantially and that they would recommend the steps for Drinkaware and the Clonakilty Community College, progressively from 22 per programme to other students/ Junior Cycle Alcohol Education Bandon Grammar School, and cent pre-programme to 50 per schools. Programme Horgan said: “With Coláiste Pobail, Bantry cent in third year. A similar Commenting on the report this research clearly indicating Over 350 students from 19 increase was found regarding the results when comparing sick/vomiting. findings, Sheena Horgan, how alcohol education can be schools across the country took students who reported ‘knowing second and third year data. Home setting can facilitate or Drinkaware CEO said: “15 effective, the time to act is now. part in the evaluation that was a lot’ about alcohol’s impact For instance, the 60 per cent deter underage drinking years of age is the ‘aver- We must progress and scale ev- conducted over the three-year on mental health, which also (approx.) of students who A recurring theme identified age’ age of the first drink in idence-informed education pro- period (2018 – 2020). doubled from 23 per cent indicated that they had never within the report, was that of Ireland. But average doesn’t tell grammes, such as the JCAEP, at Marian Carey, Principal at pre-programme to 46 per cent in drunk alcohol remained fairly parents’ role in underage drink- the full story. This study shows a national level and also look at Coláiste Pobail, Bantry said of third year. Furthermore, nearly stable between first and second ing. Parental permissiveness – how attitudes, and behaviours potential programmes for 11– to the programme: “We have seen half (46pc) of participating year, but then decreased sharply even if this is only perceived by shift markedly across 13- to 12-year-olds if the disturbing a noticeable shift in students’ students identified the negative by 17 per cent as students went the student – and the ease with 15-year-olds (first to third year), trajectory of underage drinking attitudes to alcohol, especially impact of alcohol on physical from second to third year. which alcohol can be accessed meaning alcohol education be- and continuance of alcohol when it comes to understand- and mental health as a ‘reason A disturbing result revealed in the home setting, may either fore this age is vital. Maynooth harm is to be halted. There is ing the range of harm that why teenagers do not drink’. in the study was that 38 per inhibit or enable underage University’s rigourous and inde- no place for alcohol in child- drinking can cause. Pupils are Tipping point for underage cent of third year participat- drinking. For instance, 57 per pendent evaluation shows how hood, and through the collective impressionable at this age, and drinking is second to third year ing students who drink, have cent of third year students had programmes like Drinkaware’s efforts of Irish society, from peer pressure is a reality. Pro- As the study followed already experienced one or first consumed alcohol either JC AEP can make a significant educators to parents, to charities grammes like Drinkaware’s JC participating students through more negative effects of alcohol in their own or someone else’s contribution to the prevention/ such as Drinkaware, we can AEP play a huge role in helping their three formative years of consumption, such as physical home, most saying they did delay of underage drinking.” make a difference to the next teachers engage with young secondary school, there was a fights, arguments, accidents/ so with little difficulty whilst Lead author of the study, generation’s relationship with people to give them the infor- marked shift across some of injury, and/or feeling physically only one in four said they got Professor Sinéad McGillo- alcohol.” Channel your unique flair and skills through We Are Cork Youth Challenge

n response to the impact of called on to put their talents and The challenges aim to give Cork ETB has moved quickly to represents a great way for young- The challenges should be kept the Covid 19 crisis on second skills into practice by completing participants an opportunity to help fill the void, and I encour- er people in Cork to be proactive simple and could be anything level education, Cork Edu- a series of educational challenges focus their energies on positive age as many teens as possible to in their own self-development – from completing a 3km run, Ication and Training Board (Cork through the campaign. activities from now up to the participate in what will be a fun as they continue to thrive during compiling a Spotify list, cooking ETB), as the provider of Youth The challenge gives teens start of August. and worthwhile experience and this academic year. We hope that a meal traditional to another Services in the region, working an opportunity to explore their A special Lord Mayor and a chance to discover a new skill many Cork teenagers will get country, or composing a rap, with other agencies and volun- creative capabilities and acquire County Mayor’s medal will be or hobby.” involved, focus their energies on song, or poem. We know that our tary bodies, is co-ordinating the a new skill or refine existing tal- presented to each successful County Mayor, Cllr Mary the challenges and have some Cork youths are bursting with provision of a range of supports ents. Over 50 challenges across participant and various challenge Lenihan-Foley also paid tribute fun in the process.” talent and we welcome their own and initiatives for young people music, arts, society, environment, spot prizes are available for to the collaborative efforts of Cork ETB Chief Executive, unique individual interpretations in 2021 and beyond. sport and technology have been the most creative and exciting the organisations supporting the Denis Leamy stressed that the of each challenge.” One such initiative, run in set with participants asked to challenges. challenge and added; “It is our challenges are not a competi- The We Are Cork Youth partnership with Cork City complete 20 tasks and record During the virtual launch, combined efforts that will make tion but added that creativity is Challenge encourages young Council, Cork County Council, their experiences for others to Lord Mayor Cllr Joe Kavana- the difference for this campaign encouraged with specific spot people to upload videos of their Music Generation Cork City and see by downloading Microsoft’s gh said; “Travel restrictions, and it is so important that we prizes awarded to those with the completed challenges to Micro- Cork Sports Partnerships, is the free, accessible, and secure the widespread cancellation of are proactive within all our local most innovative challenges. soft’s free, accessible, and secure We Are Cork Youth Challenge, FLIPGRID app and social media activity programmes and sports community organisations to He said: “The overall aim of FLIPGRID app and social media where young people in Cork channel, which will be moderat- have made this a very different support young people during this ‘We are Cork’ is participation, channel, which will be moderat- (13- to 18-year-olds) have been ed by Cork ETB. year for many young people. challenging time. The challenge engagement and fun – lots of fun. ed by Cork ETB. 30 April 2 – April 29, 2021 people Health & Lifestyle Finding peace in your own private West Cork retreat

hen my head is with angel card readings. Sound “The sessions can also be Atlantic Way. There are also for- full of all the healing is a gentle but powerful quite spiritual, as it allows you est and lake walks on the door- Claire Marie Barton things on my energy healing therapy, which the space to see your life situa- step, as well as award-winning “W‘to do’ lists and the kitchen is changes your brainwaves and tion from a higher perspective restaurants in the nearby towns CONNECTING THROUGH SOUND stacked with dirty dishes, it’s triggers your own innate healing and explore the deeper meaning of Rosscarbery and Clonakilty. RELAXING SOUND BATH time to head to the beach. I take ability. behind it.” “We are so looking forward the new high path that looks out It has been a natural progres- There is also the option to to welcoming guests once the • Monthly online over Kilkerran Lake and onto sion for her to create a deeper learn the ukulele during your restrictions ease,” says Claire. Galley Head lighthouse. I see experience with the introduction stay! The rest of the time, you The retreats are for individuals sound bath fresh leaves opening like flowers of private retreats. “Spending are free to walk the beach, jour- and couples and run for two to • Chill out at home on the wild roses and the velvety time close to nature by the sea, nal and take time out for yourself three nights with the option of catkins of the pussy willow are you can connect more deeply in nature. extending your stay. To find out Friday 14 April out. In no time, I am happily with yourself and experience re- The Airbnb is just two min- more or to book your retreat, wandering through the dunes laxation through sound healing,” utes walk from Long Strand just please visit 7.00- 8.30pm with my puppy without a care in she says. outside Clonakilty on the Wild www.clairemariebarton.com tickets: www.clairemariebarton.com the world. There’s no-one else on the beach and while Pippin YOUR OWN PRIVATE HOLISTIC RETREAT runs around in big joyous loops, I face into the wind and look out • choose sound healing or learn ukulele to sea. Taking big deep breaths I feel grateful to be alive and to • time out for yourself in nature have nature on my doorstep. • experience peace “I know the pandemic has “Claire and Colin’s chalet was the perfect getaway - super comfortable and the been very difficult for lots of location is wonderful. Perched on a hill with views of both the Long Strand beach people cut off from nature. and woodlands and lake, you’ll be only a few minutes walk to either. Hopefully soon the restrictions Super quiet and peaceful; there’s a skylight over the bed from where you can will ease and everyone will see the stars on a clear night. I wanted for nothing. Claire and Colin also provide be free to visit the countryside some basics to get you going. Overall, one of the best value Airbnb’s I’ve stayed again.” Claire Barton. in and I hope to return, if only to indulge in another sound healing session with Claire Barton and her family Claire - highly recommended.” Jennifer, Cork have been welcoming Airbnb guests for the last five years to To find out more & book your retreat visit their cosy self-catering studio. At www.clairemariebarton.com the same time, Claire has been Any questions, contact Claire on 087 2323 623 offering sound healing sessions Changing life up a bit FitLine helps users Other types of blocks are so So, let’s get down to business am trying to dismantle in my take that first step intertwined and linked deeply here shall we? life. You can get really creative within our body-mind-spirit, The exact method I use here – make a list, break it into itLine, an Age and are continuing to provide safe that all aspects of our relation- for releasing or removing or parts, write down a goal or ten Opportunity initiative, is opportunities for people to be ships, family, work and life are dissolving or even just getting at and then narrow these down a volunteer telephone line more active. bogged down in that ‘what shall the process of breaking apart an into targets for the day or week Fdesigned to help older people “FitLine gave me the push I not be named’. internal block isn’t complicated or month. who want to feel healthier, but needed to stop making excuses Feeling stuck in life can play – let me tell you what I teach in Another thing that I found perhaps don’t have the motiva- to get up and get active,” said out in so many different ways my clinic and do for myself. myself doing, certainly in times tion, confidence or information Anne, a FitLine participant in – sometimes we don’t even Most weeks, unless it is past when we could travel a on where or how to take that Cork. realise we are blocked. We often Christmas, I do a wee fast day little further – was to go some first step. The service is com- FitLine mentors are volunteer refer to ourselves, and others, as or two – usually this goes fairly place new and different. Like NATURE TALKS pletely free. older people who understand ‘set in our ways’. You all know well and is easy enough. I drink an unusual walk in the woods, The FitLine team is encour- the challenges of getting active. at least one person like this and juices, smoothies, herbal teas a trip to a beach you have April Dannan aging people to give them a call They’ll give you information, we all have at least one area of and water. Or any liquid broth never seen, or even a long drive and learn more. After you’ve advice and gentle encourage- our own lives exactly the same. would be great too especially on around a mountain. April Danann is a food influ- made the first call, a FitLine ment to get moving over the Couldn’t be clearer than that! cold days. These days, I get really encer, creating new trends in mentor will arrange a time phone. Over this past year, we, at My one item that I always adventurous and go shop at a healthy sustainable living as to ring you every two weeks To find out more free phone the very least, have had a lot of add in to my warm (not hot!) store I don’t often visit or walk part of her clinical practice as until you’re happy with your I800 303 545, email fitline@ time to reflect on our lives and herbal tea or water or juice is down a street or laneway that a Naturopath Herbalist Herbal progress. ageandopportunity.ie or visit hopefully a new sense of what apple cider vinegar and one I’ve never been (go wild!). In Nutritionist Intuitive. She lives “I have been with FitLine www.ageandopportunity.ie was working and what wasn’t supplement such as vitamin C. other words, get completely out in West Cork where she is a for a few years and it gives me doing so well. Actually, those I plan out my day – often with a of your comfort zone. natural bee keeper and can often a great lift to get a phone call areas might have been glaringly flask full of liquid and top it up What we are doing is chang- be found in the hedgerows. every couple of weeks. They obvious and needed addressing with around one tablespoon of ing life up a bit… Encouraging have good advice. I live on my or some sort of new approach. vinegar per half litre or pint of our minds to create new neu- own and I love having someone am going to let you in on a We need to mix it up a little, water and my selected vitamin. rons and pathways, while we from FitLine ring me regularly,” secret… We all have blocks because breaking out of these I sip on this throughout the delve deeply into what and why said Joe, a FitLine participant in or those areas in our lives habits and thought patterns are day. we are doing things and seeking Dublin. Iwhere we feel stuck. not only liberating; they most Then I carry on as usual – I a better or easier or often health- Some find it easy to be Can’t seem to get going often are transformative. walk a little more, or any type ier approach. physically active but for others with your garden, your taxes, The real change comes about of exercise you are or are not Although these are just a it’s not so simple. Perhaps you your evening walk or starting because for the most part, these doing. Push yourself a tiny bit. few ways to tackle change – don’t know what activity to do a healthy habit – yep, that’s a blocks are functioning in a Not much – but these blocks do breaking through a block that or you lose motivation. This block! They can be big or small. direct feedback loop into our need a push. is holding you back can set is a difficult time for people Some are not interfering that deepest fears, worries and huge I write down things daily, so you on a path to reaching your worldwide as Covid-19 has much in our lives or so we tell amounts of often unnecessary this often helps me sort out the potential. forced us to change the way we ourselves. stress. process of exactly what it is I live, but Age and Opportunity April 2 – April 29, 2021 31 people Health & Lifestyle Irish Wheelchair Association adapts brings creativity and support to the homes of service users For just over a year local staff and teams at the Irish Wheelchair Association in West Cork have been sup- porting members to cope and adapt to the restrictions and health concerns brought by Covid-19.

t has been a long year for people who are living with a disability. Since the first Ilockdown in March 2020 many people and their families around West Cork have been become very isolated. Local staff and teams at the Irish Wheelchair Association have been working across the community to make sure all its members are connected and that noone is Annie Tanner after doing her painting with her dog ‘Buster’ Harry Bennett receiving his shopping with staff member Pat Footman of IWA. forgotten. and staff member Elaine Connolly. The most recent lockdown “I can honestly say having they are so well made, we are ness programmes. So next time has proven more difficult and IWA staff to do my shopping delighted to receive it. I have you see the IWA bus in your has really challenged people’s is an invaluable support that I some birds already checking it area, give a thumbs up as you wellbeing. Sinéad Burke, could not do without during this out,” reports Dee Harrington, can be sure they are delivering Service Support Officer at lockdown. I know that I can call service user at the Clonakilty a quality service to people with the Clonakilty-based centre them if I need anything and they ROC. physical disabilities. explains: will just drop it out without any “Our members are really The Irish Wheelchair As- “We phone our service users hassle and it’s always deliv- looking forward to the vaccine sociation currently has 1,500 daily, just to check in, have a ered with a friendly face and a becoming widely available and frontline workers across Ireland chat, see how they are, checking good chat, which means a lot they are hopeful for a better visiting 4,000 homes each if there is anything we can sup- to me. I’m so grateful for what 2021 over the coming months. month, caring for individuals port them with. Service users IWA have done for me over We have campaigned and with disabilities, in their own will readily say they are strug- the past 12 months,” explains lobbied at government level homes. Like many frontline gling with the social isolation, Harry Bennett, Service User to make sure that people with workers across Ireland, IWA with the lack of personal contact of the IWA Resource Centre, disabilities are included on the staff continues to work even with the outside world, and for Clonakilty. priority list for Covid-19 vacci- during the darkest days of many, they have not left their Recently one of the IWA staff nations. It is encouraging to see COVID because their members house during lockdowns out of handcrafted some beautiful some of our members getting need them and rely on them. fear of getting Covid. Our role nesting boxes that were deliv- their appointments and we hope Irish Wheelchair Associa- is to try to lift their spirits, bring Ruadh Bancroft receiving Deirdre Harrington ered to service users’ homes last to see this increase significantly tion has 57 community centres something positive to their day, his weekly entertainment receiving her hand made month. “This idea came about over the coming weeks.” across Ireland that provide try to have a laugh, and lighten pack. nesting box. from speaking to service users The IWA looks forward to social and training activities their day a little’. daily and noticing how much opening its doors again and has for thousands of people with At the IWA Clonakilty, based time they spend looking out mighty plans in the pipeline for disabilities every week in Clogheen Business Park, a packs like stained glass and meet the needs of the service their windows and we thought upcoming community projects Irish Wheelchair Association three-day a week service was collages are delivered to those users.” how nice it would be to have at the centre – there will be a is Ireland’s largest organisation run with a fourth day supporting who are interested in doing it as These are the kind of things something like a nesting box beautiful music community supporting people with physical Outreach for service users, of- a hobby at home. that bring some joy and posi- outside where you can watch project coming to the doors of disabilities to lead active and in- fering programmes and courses “It keeps our service users tivity to the service users at the the magic of nature and get to service users’ homes and to the dependent lives and has 20,000 along with individual supports. feeling included and still part of Clonakilty ROC; staff deliver know your garden and migra- local area. There is also a group members. It is the leading Due to Level 5 restrictions, the service, giving them some- these packs weekly, and stay tory birds. An illustration of project focusing on service us- provider of home support for this service is currently closed thing to focus on and immerse for a social distance chat with garden birds that might nest was ers telling their life stories that people with physical disabilities to service users. So the IWA themselves in,” explains Sinead. service users. also included with the nesting will be printed in a book form, in Ireland. decided to bring the service, as “We produce seasonal craft “Often the only person I boxes,” says Sinéad. together with holistic days at the best as they can, to the homes made by our creative team that see in the week is the visit “It was such a lovely idea and centre, arts, crafts and mindful- of service users. This is done we include in our deliveries. from the IWA staff member; through ‘Entertainment Packs’ The St. Patrick’s Day packs in- I look forward to it and have and a ‘tailored service to meet cluded felted shamrock brooch- a laugh, which I really need. Darrara Daffodil Day appeal raises €1,500 the needs of service users’. We reminisce on the ‘good oul es and ceramic Irish Maps along The committee of Darrara Community Centre was overwhelmed by the generous response to their Each week the team at the days’ and try to look forward with handmade lucky charm Daffodil Day appeal. Like most, they were unable to organise their traditional coffee day for the Irish Clonakilty ROC put together to what plans may lie ahead at bags filled with chocolate coins. Cancer Society, but instead created an online donation facility for people to support the cause. They quizzes, art therapy drawings, the Clonakilty ROC,” says Pat For Easter we will be delivering had a modest target of €300, as they were aware of so many other ways that people could contrib- delicious recipes to try at home, O’Brien, a regular service users homemade brown bread made ute to Daffodil Day. However, by the time the fund closed at midnight on Sunday last, they had in local and community news and at the Clonakilty ROC. by one of the ROC staff and fact raised five times that amount. A spokesperson paid tribute to the generosity of the people of the a weekly newsletter to update Shopping and chemist calls chocolate, kindly donated by area and those from outside it, who contributed a total of €1,500. She paid tribute to local resident their service users. Zoom ac- are carried out daily for the Dealz, Clonakilty. We are very Damian White, a community Garda based in Bandon Garda Station, who in a recent webinar they tivities are on the go, including service users who rely on IWA lucky to have a team of creative organised, spoke so honestly about his own cancer diagnosis he received a few years ago. Damian’s exercise, table quizzes, bingo, staff to pick up their essential staff working at the Centre who talk is still available to view and log-in details are on the ‘Darrara CC’ Facebook page. drama and arts and crafts. Art make such a fantastic effort to items. 32 April 2 – April 29, 2021 people Health & Lifestyle Anxiety in children speak to a lot of parents who laugh, to sing, play sports and a sense of fear, as they wonder time. It starts in the chest and niques such as, breathing and are worried that their son or enthusiastic to do things with what if they don’t grow out of feels like your heart is racing, acupressure, which will reduce daughter is suffering from them and others. it? or pounding. It can also be felt anxiety. They can learn to relax Ianxiety. It can be very worrying when It is possible at any age in the throat the neck and ears, and feel better with visualisa- Their child may still be in they see their wonderful child to learn coping skills and as the sounds seems to amplify. tions and hypnotherapy. primary school, or a teenager, withdrawing from them and techniques to manage and reset It can cause your mouth to feel If your child wants to feel and they have heard that anxiety their friends. It can also be very anxiety levels. dry, affect your breathing and better but is reluctant to talk is normal and that their child difficult when a child is not If you feel your child’s child- may even cause you to sweat. then acupuncture or acupressure will grow out of it. eating properly, having trouble hood should be the best years Although it initially feels like is a great way to balance emo- However it seems ages since sleeping, finding it difficult to of their life, then my question is a negative emotion it actually tions, calm the mind, support their son or daughter loved concentrate, not wanting to go why wait? has a very important job. It sleep and reduce stress. to play, was outgoing and to school and suffering from Anxiety is a feeling that we is there to tell us when things As a parent your role is really confident, was keen to learn, to panic attacks. Parents can feel all experience from time to maybe challenging, dangerous Amanda Roe important, you can support or unsafe. It is there to motivate them to get enough sleep, you, to give you the opportu- Trauma therapist encourage them to spend time nity to evaluate a situation and & Mind coach doing activities that are fun, make the best decision possible. provide regular meals that will Whether that is to get away or from these anxious feelings. help them to feel stronger; and Take Back Your Health stand-up for yourself. However if anxiety becomes a there are supplements that will Anxiety should be like a normal part of your child’s life, nourish their mind and body, Mental and Emotional good friend, tapping you on the and starts to impact on their which helps them to concentrate Trauma, PTSD, Anxiety, Stress, Depression, shoulder, or in this case tapping daily activities, affecting their better. Addiction, Worry, Anger, Grief, Fear, Panic, you in the chest to say, ok I mood, sleep, behaviour, ability If you have any questions on don’t feel so comfortable. What to study or begins to develop what the right approach is for Gut Health and Eating Disorders is it about this situation that’s into depression, fear, phobias or you and your family, then get in Emotional eating, Cravings, Weightloss, IBS not right? Let’s pay attention, panic attacks then it is time to touch…I am looking forward to Control issues, OCD, ADHD, Autism, Dyslexia. let’s listen to what’s going on, seek help. speaking to you. and let’s look around. Should There are things that your Natural Hormone Balancing I leave? Should I stand up for child can do to feel better. Amanda Roe is an Acupunc- Fertility, Pregnancy Care, Fatigue, Insomnia myself? Now is the time to Talking to someone in confi- turist, Clinical hypnotherapist Dysfunctional Bleeding, Anemia, Menopause. make a decision and trust in dence about how they are feel- and Life and Health Coach. myself. For more information or to Solutions for Children, Teens, Adults and Parents ing and any life challenges will If you learn this gradually help them problem solve and book a session call or text 087 Amanda Roe 087 633 1898 / [email protected] from childhood, then confi- find their own solutions. They 633 1898 or email amanda@ dence and resilience can grow can learn life skills and tech- marketstclinic.com

Glaucoma expected to rise by Same sex couple from Cork become the 33 per cent in Ireland over the first in Ireland to be legally recognised as coming decade co-parents of their children n an historic event last week, laucoma is now more further deterioration in vision is a female same sex couple prevalent in people preventable. The vast major- from Cork were the first over 50 and if left un- ity of glaucoma cases have Iin Ireland to register the birth Gtreated can result in blindness. no symptoms in early stages, of their babies with both their World Glaucoma week took hence the vital importance of names as parents on the official place in March, during which regular eye checks to pick up birth certificates, following Mater Private Network Cork glaucoma early and prevent enactment of legislation in May Consultant Ophthalmologist, avoidable sight loss. People 2020. Dr Niamh Collins urged pa- above the age of 60 are most Twin girls Réidín and Aoibhín tients not to cancel or delay ap- susceptible to the condition, were born to delighted parents pointments related to their eye as well as those with a family Niamh O’Sullivan and Geraldine health and to #TreatYourEyes. history of glaucoma. Rea on February 4, 2021 fol- Glaucoma is the name of a Most people can be treated lowing donor sperm treatment at group of eye diseases that dam- with eye drops when taken reg- Waterstone Clinic. age the optic nerve. It’s usually ularly. Laser treatment can also Network Cork said: “Early The couple attended Wa- caused by problems with the be very effective for patients. detection and intervention are terstone Clinic over a period fluid drainage system in the For other patients, an operation the key to preserving patients’ of two years and Geraldine front part of the eye, which of- called trabeculectomy can vision. If people are concerned became pregnant with the twins ten leads to increased pressure vastly improve fluid drainage about their vision, I strongly in summer 2020. “We had been inside the eye. Damage to this from the eye, alleviating their encourage them to schedule an due to have the frozen embryo Pic: Gerard McCarthy nerve can cause sight loss or glaucoma. eye test without delay. transfer in March 2020, but the even blindness if left untreated. If caught early, further “Unfortunately, any sight week of the scheduled procedure co-parents of their children. legislation was enacted in May An estimated four per cent deterioration in vision can be already lost due to glaucoma the government lockdown came of people over the age of 50 in preventable. Glaucoma was into place. We were rescheduled This means that the birth mother last year at a time when we were can’t be regained. Howev- and the intending co-parent (the dreaming of becoming parents,” Ireland already have Glaucoma, once a disease that would er, with effective medical and thanks to good timing and and it is increasing all the time almost always lead to blindness the hard work of the team at the mother’s spouse, civil partner said Niamh. “Little did we know treatments readily available, then that fate would lead us to with our ageing population. but huge advances in diagnosis, Clinic, the transfer took place or cohabitant) can now register we now have more treatment with the Registrar for the Births, being the first to benefit from Glaucoma can have a signif- monitoring and treatment now options than ever before. two days after restrictions were lifted for fertility clinics, and we Deaths and Marriages, as the this new law. It is monumental icant impact on quality of life mean that most people with “I would encourage the Irish finally became pregnant,” said parents of a child born as a result for us and an historic step to- if left untreated, leading to an glaucoma will keep useful sight public to take charge of their Geraldine. of a Donor Assisted Human Re- wards LGBT+ equality, as many inability to drive, a reduction in for life. eye health this World Glauco- In May 2020, the Children production (DAHR) procedure. children with same sex female physical activity, an increased Commenting during World ma Week and schedule an eye and Family Relationships Act This registration reflects the cou- parents can finally vindicate likelihood of falls and social Glaucoma Week, Dr Niamh test if they have any concerns 2015 commenced, which allows ple as parents on their children’s their right to have their family isolation. However, Glaucoma Collins, Consultant Ophthal- about their vision or are over for same-sex female couples birth certificates. recognised.” is treatable if caught early, and mologist at the Mater Private the age of 60.” to be legally recognised as “We were delighted when the April 2 – April 29, 2021 33 people Health & Lifestyle Don’t take your sight for granted housands of people across Ireland have missed out on vital eye Ttests during lockdown, poten- tially putting their eyesight and wider health at risk, warns local opticians Specsavers Bandon. Specsavers optician and Ban- don store partner Marie Burke says: “Fifty percent of sight loss is avoidable with early detection, however, during the pandemic many people may not have had access to these diag- nostic tests. Not only does this mean their eyesight is at risk but potentially other aspects of their health too. “That’s because while there are several changes we may notice in our vision which could be a sign of a wider health condition, there are also some things that can only be detected Optician Marie Burke, Specsavers Bandon during an eye test. “It is important to make time it is important to get them then cleared from the body. It is an appointment with your looked at as it could be an indi- meant to move from the liver to optometrist if you are seeing cation of high blood pressure. the bile ducts, but if this doesn’t certain things, such as persistent High blood pressure can happen yellowing of the skin floaters, or notice changes mean you have a higher risk of – and the eyes – can occur and with your eyes such as blurred a heart attack or stroke and it could signify there is a problem vision or yellowing of the eyes. can also lead to complications with the liver, gallbladder or However, it is also important to with your vision. pancreas. keep up your regular eye checks – even if you don’t think there Persistent floaters Blurred vision is anything wrong with your Floaters are spots in your vision Blurred vision can be caused vision – because something and usually look like black or by many things and it is vital could be happening which you grey specs or cobwebs that drift you get it checked out. Diabetes are completely unaware of.’ about when you move your raises the risk of experiencing One of these conditions is eyes. Most people will experi- diabetic retinopathy where high glaucoma. Often called the ence floaters in their vision at blood sugar levels damage tiny ‘silent thief of sight’ due to its some point in their life however blood vessels in the eye that gradual onset, the number of if you notice more eye floaters sense light which can result in people suffering with Glauco- than usual, a sudden onset of blurry vision. ma in Ireland is predicted to new ones, flashes of light in The sudden onset of blurry increase by 33 per cent over the the eye or darkness on any vision could also be a sign of next decade due to the growing side of your vision, you must stroke, particularly if combined and ageing population. Yet, be- get it looked at immediately as with some of the other key cause it’s often symptomless 50 it could signify a tear in your signs such as slurred speech per cent of glaucoma cases go retina or injury in the back of and dropping of the face. Blurry undetected. Many don’t realise your eye. In some cases, it can vision could also indicate other they have the condition before also be a symptom of diabetic eye conditions such as cataract it is too late, which is why regu- retinopathy or high cholesterol.’ or age-related macular degener- lar eye tests are so important. ation too. “At Specsavers Bandon Blue ring we use advanced diagnostic Some people may notice a Specsavers Badon is urging equipment called OCT (Optical blue-tinted ring appear around anyone who is experiencing Coherence Tomography) to their iris, particularly as they issues with their eye health such examine the eye in more detail age,’ says Ms Burke. ‘This is as persistent floaters, blurred and are able to pick up any caused by cholesterol deposits vision or yellowing of the eyes damage to the optic nerve in the eye. They are more com- to make an appointment with which is typical of glaucoma,” mon in those aged 60 and above their local Specsavers store. commented Ms Burke. and aren’t usually something At Specsavers, customers are Local expert optician Marie to worry about. However, if always guaranteed expert eye has shared five changes you these develop in the under 40s, care and hearing services, ex- may notice in your eyes and there may be a greater risk of ceptional choice and outstand- what they mean: developing heart disease. ing value for money. For more information or Five eye health signs Yellow tinge to request an appointment to look out for: Typically, yellowing of the Specsavers Bandon call (023) eyes is caused by jaundice. 882 0382 or visit www.specsav- Red spots/blood vessels The condition occurs when ers.ie/stores/bandon. While in most cases red spots haemoglobin (part of the blood are nothing to worry about, if which carries oxygen) breaks your eyes remain red for some down into bilirubin, which isn’t 34 April 2 – April 29, 2021 people Health & Lifestyle Walking your dog: Part 2 to their side or yelling ‘No’. dog on the left, then you reverse at that moment. If he’s cool, There’s nothing positive about your hands.) your dog will take the treat in his that. And you’re not offering Counteracting the pull: Ask normal fashion; slightly aroused, your dog an alternative. Your him to ‘walk on’ but if he begins he might take it but gulp it end product should be a dog to pull, you stop while at the down without chewing it. If he’s walking quietly on a loose leash. same time bending your knees highly excited or nervous, it’s So keep that in mind. If your so neither of you gets jerked. likely he will take the treat but dog does his own thing and pulls Wait until the lead goes a bit immediately spit it out or refuse you every which way, he’s not slack, then ask him to ‘walk on’. it altogether. bothered who’s on the end of his You keep doing that until he gets Any of those actions informs lead. That means he’s still not the message. you about his state of mind. listening and has neither respect Staying grounded: It’s im- That’s important. If he’s worked for you nor self-control. portant that you stay relaxed in up, then see if there are any CANINE CORNER It’s also very important that the face of any distractions. You outside influences such as people your dog walks in balance. want to concentrate on keeping or dogs approaching that are Liz Mahony Pulling and straining from side your hands soft. If you use occupying his attention. If he’s to side on a collar and lead or a the lead as a rein, as described bothered by something, then Liz Mahony is an experienced harness that inhibits the dog’s above, it’s much easier to keep you can make the decision to Dog Trainer and Holistic gait can cause or exacerbate them relaxed. However, if you either walk past it, sit him in a Therapist for all animals. In her skeletal problems especially in tighten up, you set up tension gap to let whatever it is pass or monthly column, Liz aims to dogs that are prone to hip or el- in yourself and your nervous turn back and/or cross the road. promote mutual respect between bow dysplasia or have weakness reaction goes straight down the If you choose the latter, you’ve carer and dog. Contact Liz at in the back. lead to your dog. He immediate- made a conscious decision to corkdogtrainingclasses.com As you’ll see from the pho- ly senses that and searches for give your dog the space he needs tograph, the double-ended lead the cause. to process whatever is approach- attached to the harness that Juno If he sees a person or dog ing. ast month I talked about is wearing makes a rein for you approaching, he may interpret If you do stop to let something getting your dog to to hold. You can hold that ‘rein’ your nervousness as fear of pass by at a distance, it’s im- focus indoors so that he in both hands at the beginning. what’s coming. He then may feel portant that you stay calm. Your Lautomatically listens to you out- For example, if your dog is he has to protect you and starts dog gets the message that you side where the distractions are on your right, then your right to pull, bark, or generally react aren’t concerned by whatever is greater. If you’ve fostered a good hand should be on the part of to make the ‘perceived threat’ go passing. You want him to take training relationship with your the lead nearest to his back and away. That’s how easy it can be his cue from you. dog, he will be happy paying your left hand towards the front to make a dog reactive to people Having crossed the road, place attention to you whenever and attachment. Hold the lead with or other dogs. And it started with your dog on the inside so you are wherever. your thumbs facing downwards your tension! in between him and the ‘threat’ Start as you mean to go on: otherwise you’ll be gripping In between stopping, you and another option is to walk That sounds so obvious but it’s a the lead and putting a strain on might even ask him to sit and him very fast in either direction. fact that few people have a fixed your arms. And the front part of look at you so you can feed It’s hard for a dog to bark or Not-for-profit launches idea what they want their dog the lead should always be under him a treat. That’s keeping the screech if he’s trotting fast! to do out walking. All they can the dog’s neck and not over his connection between you. It also In Part 3, I’ll set out further think of is pulling their dog back back. (If you want to walk your tells you how your dog is feeling options. call to participate in active global citizenship SERVE in Solidarity is calling for applications to Think Global, Dogs Trust creates ethics-based workshop to Act Local, a new initiative for people living in Ireland who want to make a positive difference both in their local community and teach secondary school students about animal globally. The initiative is an exciting opportunity for individuals passionate about social justice to take steps towards making a welfare through critical thinking positive mark in the world by volunteering their time as active global citizens. ogs Trust, Ireland’s ownership. At the launch of the programme SERVE Chairperson Gerry largest dog welfare To coincide with the launch, O’Connor said, “The Think Global, Act Local programme is charity, is bringing a Dogs Trust has launched a meant to open our eyes to all we can become by being proactive Dbrand-new ethics workshop to new online platform in which about social issues and showing solidarity to help reduce inequal- secondary schools nationwide. live online workshops can be ities”. Run by the charity’s Education booked for both primary and These inequalities are meant to be addressed by shattering the team, the ethics workshop secondary age groups. Down- ‘Us and Them’ mentality and building a culture of advocacy and will teach teenagers about loadable workshops are also active engagement around global issues. “The barriers that exist animal welfare through critical available for the primary school between people from different background and cultures need to be broken down,” added Nollaig Hulme from the Think Global, thinking and ethical dilemmas. audiences and fun exciting Act Local Steering Committee. Research has shown that this and engaging activities can In addition to volunteering opportunities, the initiative also helps children to make sound accessed for both age groups provides the space to network with like-minded peers and learn decisions, discover and eval- via the ‘Kids Space’ section of about critical issues such as Poverty, Gender Equality, Respon- uate their opinions and helps the charity’s website. sible Consumption, and the Ethics of Volunteering. A strong em- them to make thoughtful and Workshops are also available phasis on personal development is pervasive in this programme. confident decisions. face-to-face, where possible, in Education dog Piper Fiachra Brennan, SERVE’s Volunteer Coordinator explains, Fiona Gregan, Education and line with Dogs Trust’s rigorous “Think Global, Act Local is an interactive programme. It’s a Community Manager, Dogs Covid-19 guidelines and also what better medium to engage brand new workshops every great opportunity to come together with people who have varied Trust Ireland explains: “Dogs through adhering to the schools teenage minds than that of year.” experiences and explore the Global Goals and Social Justice can play such an important role COVID-19 response plan. ethics? To offer hypotheti- The new workshop follows together. The complete programme is centred around the inputs in our lives, offering uncondi- Please visit LearnWithDog- cal scenarios and encourage on from the success of the of participants so there is a huge scope to build one’s learning tional love and companionship, sTrust.ie to make a booking and healthy discussion is something charity’s current nationwide around their specific interests” which has been especially access the new exciting online our team is immensely looking primary school programme of Everyone is encouraged to apply, and it is open to anyone over valuable over the past year. We platform. forward to and we plan to then workshops that educate chil- 18. People of all ages are welcome. want to nourish this bond and continue to educate these pupils dren on safety around dogs and For more information about this exciting opportunity, check create further understanding with annual visits, offering also touch on responsible dog out the website www.serve.ie/thinkglobalactlocal/ of dogs and animal welfare, so April 2 – April 29, 2021 35 people Health & Lifestyle Having a healthy menopause as inevitable. In our society the mones are going to be fluctuat- ing research you can look up for focus of the menopause is one ing up and down until a woman further information. of loss, to which the answer is comes out the other side and In terms of diet and how it often to ‘replace’ hormones, into the post-menopause, when affects our experience of the using HRT. the hormones will stabilise. menopause, and our chances of Marilyn’s approach is to What a woman eats at this developing osteoporosis, there consider the menopause a stage can make the difference are a number of things we can perfectly natural and normal between having a difficult or do. Firstly, Marilyn talked about experience, and in her experi- easy menopause. phytoestrogens and discussed ence, if we combine lifestyle To start off with she talked research, which concluded that changes with dietary and herbal a little about HRT, about the a diet high in phytoestrogens solutions, we should be able to different types and about the protects women from breast reduce the challenging effects of benefits and the risks involved. cancer as well as osteoporosis. HEALTH this transition without resorting Overall, she would prefer to see Phytoestrogens are found in Hannah Dare to medication. Preferably she women trying natural solutions, soy-based foods and all beans would like to see us start the because there are considerable and lentils, as well as flax seeds, Organico Bantry lifestyle adjustments early on in risks associated with HRT, par- and herbs like Red Clover and our 40s or even 30s though, to ticularly if it is started young. Hops. give ourselves the best chance If you are interested in learning “Research has shown that of sailing through it: more about Marilyn’s views on a daily intake of soya (about id you miss our recent The menopause is a time HRT, please watch the talk, as 100ml soya milk or the equiv- of change and the female hor- she shared several slides detail- alent) reduces the risk of hip webinar on the Meno- las, coffee, and animal proteins). don’t, as it can be confusing. fractures by 20-30pc. But don’t pause and Osteoporo- Basically, because these Coffee is also acidifying and Dsis? We were amazed and de- just focus on soya; have a good foods are so acidic, our body causes calcium and magnesium variety of all the legumes in- lighted at the response – we had Research concluded that a diet high in needs to draw calcium and to leech from our bones, but Ap- cluding chickpeas, kidney beans nearly 500 sign-ups, which is a phytoestrogens protects women from other minerals from our bones ple Cider Vinegar is alkalising, and lentils.” record for us, and just serves to to get back to the alkaline state hence it being such a good drink breast cancer as well as osteoporosis. She also discussed the im- underline how important these it thrives in, and this leaching to soothe an acid stomach. portance of balancing our blood subjects are and how many Phytoestrogens are found in soy-based of essential minerals is very Marilyn also discussed sugars, how the blood sugar people they affect. foods and all beans and lentils, as well detrimental to our bone health. supplements, both herbal and rollercoaster disrupts our sleep, If you missed the webinar She also talked about the crisis vitamin/minerals, and how as flax seeds, and herbs like Red Clo- and how to achieve balance but would like to watch it, it’s that is being caused by drinking essential they are to maintaining through diet: available as a playback until ver and Hops. cola and other fizzy drinks – bone health, staying calm and “From the dietary point of April 25, so just drop us an again, the acid in these drinks keeping well during these years. view, the most important factor email and we will send you the causes minerals to be leached And Heather gave us some is to get blood sugar under replay link. Here’s a few of the from our bones and it is causing examples of case studies with control. I would like women key lifestyle and dietary points even teenagers to have weak women she has worked with, to know that sugar and foods Marilyn and Heather discussed and brittle bones, which is showing the power of dietary that are broken down into sugar though, to get you started! terrifying, and could cause you and nutritional adjustments in quickly (e.g. white flour etc) are Firstly, Marilyn is very clear to wonder how these drinks are overcoming difficult symptoms. the major culprits behind most that the menopause is not an even allowed to be on sale in In particular, we learned about women’s health problems.” illness. If you subscribe to the first place! the importance of Omega 3 Then Marilyn moved on to the standpoint currently held She discussed research on supplements, magnesium, and discuss osteoporosis, which she by the conventional medical diet that showed that women calming herbs such as valerian described as a silent killer of profession, you’d be forgiven on a highly acidic diet (lots of and Theanine. women, and how if we aren’t for thinking it was. Women animal protein, cheese, colas) If you’d like to watch the active enough, if we smoke, or in many other cultures do not were 4 times as likely to have whole talk, we will happily send are on certain medications, our experience the menopause as hip fractures than women on a it on to you. As Marilyn said, chances of suffering from bone a crisis demanding medical less acidic diet. we are all different – but there loss increase significantly. She intervention – and yet we all She was careful to point out are some basic changes that can also talked about what we can have the same set of hormones. that oranges and lemons are be made to improve our chances do to reduce our risk and retain Many of them simply do not actually alkalising when we of having an easy menopause. our bone strength, in particular suffer the physical and emotion- eat them, so it pays to take a And it’s never too late to start. avoiding or reducing certain al symptoms that women in the careful look at what foods have Take care and stay well, and foods (mainly fizzy drinks/co- West are programmed to accept an acidifying effect and which have a good April!

– including videos, podcasts, Senior Cycle students to make IBEC, added: “The Nurturing “I really like that the pro- New programme to help articles, worksheet exercises informed choices and decisions Bright Futures programme gramme prepares students to and quizzes – has been created for their next step, NBF also is a fantastic support to help become reflective learners; to to help students acquire the serves as a resource for Guid- students to hit the ground build an experience and see that college choices launched skills and tools they will need ance Counsellors, educators, running as they make the first learning doesn’t just happen in new programme schools across Ireland and inter- as they make the transition to and parents and guardians, and big transition of their lives, from a classroom or lecture hall, but designed to help school national High School Counsel- third level. bespoke guides are available for school to the world of college, all throughout college. It helps students make the transi- lors to roll out this programme NBF is relevant for all Senior those in supportive roles both in university or further study; to people to see the value in learn- Ation to third level education has to their students. Cycle students, from Transition school and at home. set themselves up to consider ing and developing a personal been developed by University The six-module programme Year to Leaving Certificate, and Claire McGee, Head of Edu- careers that suit their interests learning journey.” College Cork (UCC). guides students on how to is designed with all pre-entry cation and Innovation Policy at and their skills. ‘Nurturing Bright Fu- choose a course that is right student cohorts in mind – both tures’ (NBF) is an innovative for them, degree choices and domestic and international. online programme, designed future careers, decision-making The programme also contains for secondary level students styles, transitioning to higher bespoke content for students from Transition Year to Leaving level education, and the realities accessing third level as Mature Certificate to help them become of university life. The self-di- Students, International Students, future-ready as they navigate rected programme is designed and through the Disability the next step in their educa- to be taken over the course of Access Route to Education tion journey. UCC is working a number of weeks, in bite-size (DARE) scheme. with Guidance Counsellors in format. The multi-media content While the programme is de- signed to empower and enable 36 April 2 – April 29, 2021 people Health & Lifestyle The invisible shoes animals, all munching whatever in itself, is a feat of co-ordina- OK, do you need to sit down, WALKING IN is nearest to them, or surveying tion and balance. The sandwich- do you need some tea?” MY SHOES the landscape, grooming each es and water come out of the The girl did get a fright when other, or simply resting. This rucksack and, as the horses tuck the woman pushed into her and Elizabeth Walsh skill of handling many horses, into fresh hay, she picnics with knocked her walking stick from who are socialised to each other her friends, chatting happily her. As she makes her way back Walking in my shoes – and to the environment in which in the sun. She has taken an to her friends, she is more alert, accessibility explained. they find themselves, is indeed inventory and photos of the trying to develop the proverbial Each and every day our lives recognised as a feature of Irish horses, which should be seen eyes in the back of her head. impact on each person’s handlers and their equines; on the fair field; and when the That evening, when the life whose path we cross, and valued within the horse picnic is finished, she takes her horses are gone to B&B metaphorically and physically, industry. turn to hold the horses, while and everyone is washed and positively or negatively! The fair green is a spectacle, her friends make their way up to changed, they head out to a buzzing with activity, with an- form their own opinions of what local hostelry, known for its ticipation; eager faces scouting is on offer. food. It is jammed. However, t is a beautiful bright sunny for a horse or a pony, owners She holds her two horses, on seeing the girl and her sticks, morning, in the autumn of anxious to sell one. However, talking to them and gently a pathway appears towards the 2015, at Ballinasloe horse everyone exudes an air of calm, petting them, chatting with Ponies browsing the stalls at Ballinasloe Fair snug, where tables are served: Ifair. The fair green is a virtual as though it were all a picnic, passers-by who make hope- All six of them are heaving. sea of horses and ponies, every no rush, and conversations go ful enquiries. Eventually, her while their equines obligingly him, an arm shoots out to buffer Some avert their gaze, as the size and colour, every age, thick around in circles, saying every- friends return, with reports of rest, surveying the shoppers. her “be careful, look in front girl balances, tired after her manes, long manes, hairy hors- thing but telling nothing. their views of what is on offer. Overseas visitors to the fair of you” is thrown at the youth. long, but enjoyable day. Then, es, plaited horses, cobs, mares, The aroma of horse is intox- They debate this for a while. stop to take photos, amazed at Some youths have spilled out a young man, sitting with his stallions, colts, foals, show icating, their beautiful muzzles She decides to go for a walk up the ease with which the gentle onto the road watching an auc- group of family and friends, jumpers, leisure horses – a sight and calm eyes, watching intent- the main street. This is like a equines are handled. “It would tion of horse ware; she cannot ethnic Irish Travellers, looks to dazzle any spectator. ly, the bustle and movement, the trek into a market crossed with never happen in Italy,” a lady, get through, her dilemma is around, glimpses her, and is on Along she comes, slower exchanges around them. Mares the fair green: Add in conges- who identifies as an Italian noticed, “make way there, lads, his feet in one swift move- than others, but steady, moving nuzzle their foals. Stallions tion with colourful chatting veterinary surgeon, remarks let the girl through”. ment. He whips his chair off carefully among the horses on stomp. people and laughing children. to the girl, “our horses do not However, it is on her return the ground and plants it firmly the green, careful of her step. She moves on up the field to Stalls line the street selling all receive adequate socialisation, journey, back up to her friends, beside the girl, “I’m well able Her walking sticks are noiseless the arena where the loose jump- things horsey, from colourful, with each other, humans or the that the girl really comes to ap- to stand”, he laughs, “take the on the grass. She watches for ing is about to start. Several actual, horse products, to toys environment.” preciate the ever-watchfulness weight off your feet, didn’t I see the riders, who are oblivious of local horses will be taking part. and ornaments, clothes, food As the girl makes her way, of these good-humoured people. you admiring Johnny’s piebald her; might just keep coming, There are no seats; however, an and novelty items. Behind browsing, along the crowded As she makes her way, now earlier?” and they launch into a not cognisant of her lack of organiser, on noticing her, finds these, the shops, restaurants and street, she is struck by the very tired, rather slowly, she is conversation between the two speed or lack of ability to a barrel for her to rest on. The pubs churn out food and meals. courtesy and kindness of ethnic suddenly pushed from behind groups about the horses for sale, change direction quickly. As loose jumping is thrilling. It People meander, stopping unex- Irish Travellers. She had noticed and her left walking stick is what they had made, what they she meanders around the green, goes well for some, not so good pectedly, as something glistens it on the fair green, however knocked from her hand, flying might have made, and what she pauses often to admire the for others. Sometimes, it is just and catches their eye. in this street it jumps to life. A onto the ground. As she regains they should have made. many beautiful horses and foals, all about luck on the day. As nonchalantly as though child tries to dart in front of her her balance, she can see a Walk in this girl’s shoes… exchanging conversation and She turns back down the they were walking a dog, and a hand reaches out to stop well-dressed, beautifully coiffed experience what invisibility banter with the owners or han- field; at the end she heads left, owners walk slowly through him “mind the girl, watch where woman, walking smartly away. feels like…and true courtesy dlers. Equine skills in Ireland to where her friends are gath- the crowd, with one, per- you are going, I am sorry Miss”. A hand extends to assist her. and kindness. are such that one handler might ered with horses on show for haps two, ponies or horses A teenager walks aimlessly “Are you OK Miss, can I help hold anything, from one horse sale. It is very warm. She takes trailing behind them. They texting, about to crash into the you?” the young man retrieves or pony, to a veritable string of a seat on the chain fence, which, might halt to browse at a stall, girl sideways; she has not seen her stick. “Are you sure you are Fundraising campaign launched for new playground and skatepark in Clonakilty fundraising campaign items having fallen completely €225,000, which will be raised for new play facili- into disrepair. Research with from a combination of public ties was launched in the local community has found and private sources. A commit- AClonakilty in March. Plans a high level of dissatisfaction tee has been established by the include the full refurbishment with the playground, as well Chamber to oversee the fund- of the playground, a skatepark as concerns about safety and raising and development for the and improved seating and anti-social behaviour. This was initiative, with a plan to raise safety measures. The cam- especially high amongst parents €100,000 directly from the paign – overseen by Clonakilty of children with disabilities. community. The first success- Chamber of Commerce – has Although almost 40 per cent of ful fundraising campaign took begun with a series of online parents of children with disabil- place on St. Patrick’s Day and a and social distanced fundraisers ities said that the playground virtual Easter egg hunt will take with a view to running a more was a source of respite for place on Easter Sunday. Boxes traditional set of events over the them, 85 per cent of respon- have been created for purchase Marian O Hara, Eilish Lawlor, Oonagh Croke O’Donoghue summer months. dents considered the provision in local shops with all proceeds As the only public play area for children with disabilities as going to the playground. Further with their fundrasing Easter Egg Hunt boxes, on sale locally. in a rapidly growing town, the inadequate or poor. The vision, details of this and other events playground is an important therefore, is to create a fully can be found on the Facebook are insufficient. It is estimated a fundraising page has been feature for the local communi- inclusive space that meets the page: Clonakilty Playground that €100,000 will need to be established at ifundraise.ie – ty. Whilst several generations needs of all children – from Several funding bids are also raised locally to complete the search for ‘Clonakilty have grown up with the current toddlers to teens – and of all underway to reach the target. project. For those that would Playground and Skatepark’. playground, it has now become abilities. However, even if successful, the like to support the campaign quite dilapidated, with some The total fundraising target is organisers say that these alone April 2 – April 29, 2021 37 people Health & Lifestyle Understanding our 12- to 14-year-olds child and parent alike, under- marked by intense struggle on standing what is likely to be go- the part of the youngsters. The ing on for young people of this result of the struggle can be both age may suggest ways in which enriching and damaging. At best, parents may better enjoy, help the weathering of these turbulent and protect them. Young people years, through resilience, under- are finding their own unique standing, tolerance and honesty, ways of negotiating the strange may often expand and deepen process of finding a sense of au- relationships between parents DO WE thenticity, which may turn out to and children, enabling each to be very different from what they separate, to grow, to change and UNDERSTAND or their parents expected. This is to establish the basis for lasting an age that is increasingly dread- friendship and mutual respect. OUR CHILD? ed by parents, and increasingly Diana Radeva Child and Adolescent Psychotherapist Why do we sometimes find it In this series of articles Diana Radeva, child and adolescent psy- hard to understand chotherapist sets out to consider the emotional life of children from birth children? onwards; and how relationships between children and parents evolve is happening, as they are to the assumptions questioned, losses child and parent alike. Perhaps over time. It is a view of human young adolescents themselves endured. The 12-year-old ‘child’, harder to recognise is the fact When we struggle with our child’s emotional growth, which recognises the impor- – torn between wanting and not newly out of junior and primary that change is involved for them- tance of strong feelings experienced wanting to be understood. This is school, is struggling to relate the selves as well. Many parents will distress or behavioural problems what can we at each stage of development; thus a period of new kinds of friend- old world to the new, undergoing have been developing with their offering ways that parents might do or what can help us? find helpful when wanting to better ships, of burgeoning sexuality, of and intimidating and intoxicating child all along. At this age, how- Child psychotherapy practice is a proven and reliable method of understand their children’s growth. changing interests and beginning rite of passage, clinging to the ever, it becomes evident that the addressing and treating a number of issues including: This is the extraordinary story of awareness. It is a time of transi- familiar, fascinated by the un- understanding that is so crucial • Pre-school children: difficulties within mother-infant the ‘ordinary development’ as seen tion from a place in the family to tried. By 14, ‘the young person’ to the child’s sense of security and experienced by a parent and a a place in the outside world. may seem to have abandoned and self-esteem is based more relationship, eating, sleeping, and toileting, separation and child psychotherapist. This process of transition and childish things and be precar- firmly than ever in the parents’ developmental difficulties. the extraordinary different forms iously launched into personal continuing ability to share what • School-age children: social difficulties, difficult behaviours such it takes, can become all-consum- and social world of immense they thought they knew, to bear as defiance and aggression, ADHD, ASD, learning and attention ing. It is a time of anxiety, appre- complexity, but as yet with no not knowing, to examine them- problems, emotional problems such as anxiety and fears, family aught between lost hension, of the fear and thrill of certainty, no clear goals, no firm selves, to learn from experience breakdown issues and relationships at home and at school. childhood and unreal- the unknown. It is a time when, direction. The central pre-oc- and perhaps especially, to toler- • Adolescents and young people (up to 27): trauma, ised adulthood, 12- to physically, growth is occurring cupation is one of personal ate rejection – be in the form of C14-year-olds often experience anxieties, worries, depression, low self-esteem, peer and family more rapidly than in any other identity: ‘Who am I?’ withdrawal, negativity, abuse or relationships problems, gender identity difficulties. the most conflict-laden, bewil- stage except in the womb and Most parents will recognise duplicity – in the hope that this dering and challenging years of when, alongside that, changes in that the 12–14-year-olds, each may temporarily be the path that all. These years may be quite mental and emotional growth are in his or her own way, are going separation takes. DIANA RADEVA BPsych (Hons) MPsych Clin Mpsych psych as bewildering and as full of at their most insistent and most through dramatic changes and How can all this be thought conflict and challenge to parents demanding. that the task of adapting to these about, be understood? Despite Child and Adolescent Psychotherapist attempting to understand what Boundaries are being tested, changes is a turbulent one, for the multiple problems that assail Over 15 years of experience. ICP Registeredt, MACP 083 8930386 [email protected] SOS for health care

his month I might just The complete selfishness of valued and protected. contemplated giving up medi- chest in agony and just need share with you some of people who flout common sense Early on in my career, I cine! This is why of course GPs help, how inappropriate and the worrying trends in the precautions, fly off on holiday, learned a new word: That was pay up to €12,000 a year for uncaring that sounds? Thospitals and General Practice. and drink in ‘shebeens’ beggars ‘litigious’. This describes a legal protection. I take great pleasure in I was on duty the weekend belief. patient who knows how the After two years of distracting teaching medical students in the of the demonstration in Cork: I Never mind if you do get system works and threatens to misery, can I submit a counter hospital. It is a great honour and suppose it is fair to say those out Covid by being bloody stupid, sue to get exactly what they claim for my distress? No way! I want them to work in a system were in complete denial around the nurses and doctors will be want. Given the present system A doctor just takes it on the chin. where they are appreciated for the true Covid situation and felt there. True at the moment, but and the misery of dealing with Paradoxically, those who go their hard work and dedication. DOCTOR’S hard done by. most of us have not had a break complaints my end, they tend to the extra mile for their patients Can we not stop this utter self- We had extra staff on to now for 12 months and some are get exactly what they want. This are most vulnerable. Defensive ishness and the world owes me ORDERS cope with extra casualties. As it leaving. clearly disadvantages the more medicine rules just send every- a living nonsense attitude before happened, our worst fears were The medical profession are reasonable patient. one to A&E to avoid hassle. there is nobody left working in Dr Jeff Featherstone not realised – just the odd Garda paying the price for Govern- Some time ago I received a Look at the level of personal the hospitals. who had been assaulted – but ment inaction around the lack complaint from a patient; the injury claims. We in Ireland hold On a lighter note, I see there Dr Featherstone is a high- it remains to be seen whether of enforced quarantine for the essence of which was, I asked the record. If you slip over in a are moves to change the name of ly experienced medic and this demonstration constituted a thousands flying into Ireland her where she came from and shop, solicitors are just lining the Kerryman Newspaper to the award-winning super spreader event! from high-risk countries. this, she interpreted as a racist up to help you sue. By the way Kerryperson! A burning issue for works in a busy GP practice in It is no coincidence that after I have NEVER seen a TD remark. I thought she had a that is likely to take an eternity some of our TDs. I have to ask, West Cork, as well as at Mercy this event four senior and pretty anywhere near any of the units French accent, was mistaken, as well. I meet patients who is all this political correctness University Hospital and Cork irreplaceable nurses have left that I have worked at. Poor dears and this triggered two years of specialise in having accidents making Ireland a better place? University Hospital, as an A&E A&E at the Mercy. might catch something nasty or endless letters to the Irish Med- and suing. They get their money; I think I will just throw myself doctor. The most senior, and worth wake up to the real world! ical Council. It was horrendous I get ulcers! down the nearest personhole! her weight in gold, said she felt I feel the system is being tak- and the complaint was ultimate- Go to a hospital in the USA “marooned working and caring en for granted. It is so precious ly seen as ‘vexatious’. She had the first question asked is, ‘Who on an island where outside the and I work with some wonderful submitted similar complaints to are you insured with?’ Can you hospital nobody else cares.” people. It must be nurtured, all her previous GPs. I seriously imagine, as you clutch your 38 April 2 – April 29, 2021 people Health & Lifestyle Elliot Page: Star of Juno felt a sense of responsibility to share his truth

gratitude to have made it to this came to love him for playing point are mixed with fear and the quirky Juno two years anxiety. In the context of the later, popularising the term US, increased social acceptance ‘pork sword’, there was a lot of for transgender people comes himself in that role, which had LGBTI+ with a conservative backlash to be unguarded and revealing MATTERS at a ‘craze’, and artists like JK to make it real. By the time it Rowling are using their profiles came to Inception three years BRÓD is an LGBTI+ to oppose transgender equality later, he, as anyone would, was Community Group based in in the name of feminism. In the struggling to cope with the spot- West Cork. A mix of LGBTI+ States, now gender identity is light. Page refers to the industry people and allies, the group’s becoming a political football; placing crushing standards on mission is to ‘Support, but for us here the details are actors and viewers alike, impos- Mark Holland waves the Transgender Pride Flag at Clonakilty’s Whale’s Tail monument to Advocate and Increase less important than opposing ing stereotypes of how females mark International Transgender Day of Visibility on March 31. International Transgender Visibility’ for the LGBTI+ discrimination against anyone and males are all supposed to Day of Visibility is an annual event dedicated to celebrating transgender people and community in West Cork. for what they are, particularly act, dress and speak, that serve raising awareness of discrimination faced by transgender people worldwide, as well as a vulnerable minorities; and no one. celebration of their contributions to society. always keep in mind that to He came out as gay in 2014, do nothing is to side with the and married choreographer and he acknowledges the of articles have been written, to promote political agendas. By Mark Holland powerful elite. Emma Portner in 2018. This inspiration he got from people apart from this one, worldwide! Transphobia is also on the rise Currently starring alongside was an empowering process like Janet Mock and reading Bigots lambasted their rhetoric in the UK, as discrimination in anadian actor Elliot Page our own Robert Sheehan in the that also gave him more pro- books like P. Carl’s Becoming A about ‘women in men’s lock- employment, housing, medical features on the cover of hit Superhero series The Um- fessional agency, getting into Man. In a heartfelt letter posted er-rooms’ while casting direc- care and the associated poverty. the Patrick’s Day (week) brella Academy, Page has had production, and getting cast Cedition of Time Magazine to to Instagram last December he tors reached out to say it would Page implores people to educate a long, hard road to stardom. in more appropriate, relevant disclosed that he is transgender be an honour to have Page in themselves about trans lives, talk about his life’s process Long in that he landed his first roles. He felt better but the and this interview with Time is their next project. were and the crucial role that medical transitioning. At around nine role in Pit Pony at the age of discomfort in his body did not the first public comment he has the first to come out on the day care plays in them. He is “… years of age he remembers the ten, hard in that some of the go away. The isolation forced released since then. He divorced of his announcement to offer really excited to act, now that feeling of triumph at getting his roles along the way required a by the pandemic, Page says, from Portner earlier this year to change the credits on The I’m fully who I am, in this hair cut short for the first time pretty deep dive. Like 2005’s gave him time to really focus on but the two remain friends. He Umbrella Academy so that now body. No matter the challenges and asking his mom if he could Mouth to Mouth, and later things he had subconsciously expected applause and vitriol, the first thing you see written and difficult moments of this, be a boy some day? Twenty-five that year, Hard Candy, where been avoiding and eventually anticipated support and phobia on the screen at the end of each nothing amounts to getting to years later he has transitioned he played a fourteen-year-old embracing the revelation that but not quite this much of it; he episode is ‘Elliot Page’. feel how I feel now”. into Elliot and it’s been a vigilante girl’s entrapment of he is transgender let him fully gained 400,000 new followers In the US, with increased Just celebrate all of the won- complicated journey. He says a predator in his own home. become himself. “Fathoming on Instagram on the day of his transgender visibility, trans- derful complexities of people! that feelings of excitement and And though we all eventually one’s gender is complicated” announcement and thousands gender rights are being used

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April 2 – April 29, 2021 39 people Health & Lifestyle ‘Think Before A common plant with much value You Pour’ provokes urine and takes off dote to those little hard pebbles the heat and sharpness thereof. that plague us at times. campaign Culpeper also tells us that the The table at the end of this lean Coasts and Irish juice applied externally helps article shows how the use of Water are delighted to an- shingles, St. Anthony’s fire, and ‘Umbilicus rupestris’ for chest nounce that celebrity chef the ‘pin’ and inflammation of complaints continued in the oral CDonal Skehan is supporting this the piles. It was also deemed tradition for over five centuries year’s ‘Think Before You Pour’ helpful against kibes (ulcerated and reappears in the National Easter campaign. ‘Think Before You Pour’ is a public awareness chilblains especially one on the Folklore Collection in 1938, campaign run by Clean Coasts in heel) and chilblains. which is also cited by Allen & partnership with Irish Water. The The seventeenth century was Hatfield. It is also possible to campaign discourages the public a tumultuous time in Ireland and see in this chart how Culpeper’s from pouring Fats, Oils and by the middle of that century the use for this herb entered into Grease (FOGs) down the kitchen HERBAL Irish medical schools were no vernacular use or may reflect an sink, as one in three people living HEALING more. A lot of land had changed Irish indigenous tradition. in Ireland admit to doing so. hands and the immigrants had Current research into this In the Easter video, launched Dr. Rosari Kingston no knowledge of Irish or the herb is rather sparse but the on his social media pages, Donal shares the most environmentally flora of the Irish countryside. leaves are eaten raw in Sicily; friendly ways to dispose of your Dr. Rosari Kingston PhD, M.Sc We may assume that Culpeper’s (Garacia et al 2018) and FOGs after cooking, such as pour- (Herbal medicine) is a medi- herbal, written in English, was Massinissa et al (2017) have ing them into a reusable container cal herbalist practising in Dr. a very useful item to have in concluded that it has a “signifi- like an empty egg carton or yo- O’Reilly’s integrative clinical one’s baggage coming to this cant effect on urinary excretion ghurt pot, and then emptying into practice in Clonakilty, Co. Cork ‘barbaric isle.’ The lack of Irish of electrolytes but the molecules a food-waste bin. Donal reminds must have been a problem for responsible of this effect have us how making small changes in as well as Church Cross, Skib- our kitchens can prevent big prob- bereen. Dr. Kingston’s area of these early settlers because if to be determined”. Whether this they could not identify a herb, experiment on rats will be the lems in our wastewater systems research are the healing modal- and environment. not being versed in Irish, they same with humans remains to ities present in Irish vernacular Although FOGs might seem medicine and she incorporates had no way of finding it. Keogh, be seen. like liquid when poured, once them, where possible, into her a clergyman in , All in all tradition, and cur- they cool along the wastewater clinical practice. In her clinical resolved this problem when he rent research is telling us, there pipes this can cause blockages in practise she specialises in infer- wrote his herbal in 1735, as he is a lot more potential in this homes, the public wastewater net- tility and digestive issues. spelt the Irish word for the herb common plant than we realise. work and at wastewater treatment plants. www.rosarikingstonphd.com phonetically. This allowed his reader to pronounce the word correctly, or at least in some fashion, thus allowing them to his morning I noticed ask an Irish speaker to locate it the above plant growing for them. Keogh’s information on the wall of an old on wall pennywort is much the Tstone building. It is a familiar same as Culpeper. Three cen- plant and its botanical name turies on, Allen and Hatfield’s is ‘Umbilicus ruperstris’. It is excellent tome on ‘Medicinal more commonly known as wall Plants in Folk Tradition’ tells us pennywort or ‘Cornán chaisil’, that this herb was used for, ‘Cornán Leacáin’, and ‘Lus na • Corns (Wicklow, Wexford, Pingne’ in Irish. Carlow, Cork) This is a very useful herb to • Chilblains (Tipperary, Carlow, demonstrate the diverse sources Wexford, Wicklow) that contribute to our knowl- • TB (Wicklow) edge of a herb today. • Jaundice (Waterford) Before the fall of the old • Sore eyes (Leitrim, Wicklow) Gaelic order in the seventeenth • Earache (Mayo) century, the hereditary medical And Wyss in ‘Ireland’s Gen- families were busy translating erous Nature’ (2014) adds to the new European medical this account by telling us the texts, from the universities of following. Salerno and Montpelier, into • Lumps and swellings, sore Irish for use in Irish medical eyes, TB, jaundice, headaches, schools. These translated texts worms, kidney trouble and would build on the oral tradition earache (Allen & Hatfield, that formed the basis of indige- 2004) nous medical learning up to this • Mixed with ivy to treat warts, point and would add another corns in Waterford, and blad- layer of expertise. Wall penny- der stones (Williams 1993) wort is one herb mentioned in a • Sap put on bee stings in the manuscript written in 1415 and Mizen region of West Cork. it is one for which no Galenic (McCarthy & Hawkes 2007) tradition exists. The writer of • Fleshy leaves used in sand- this manuscript, Ó Cuinn, tells wiches (Phillips 1983) us that wall pennywort is cold • High fevers, inflammations, and wet and that it softens and piles, chilblains, liver com- disseminates swelling. He also plaints, kidney stones, diuretic advises the application of this (Uí Chonchubhair 1995 Flóra herb in a salve…there are other Chorcha Dhuibhne) herbs in the formula also…for I love the idea of using all chest troubles. pennywort for corns, which are However, Culpeper’s herbal, hard and dry. As Ó Cuinn says, written in 1653, tells us that this herb softens and dissemi- wall pennywort is useful in hot nates, so it is the perfect anti- distempers of the liver, that it 40 April 2 – April 29, 2021 people Health & Lifestyle At-home treatments while we wait for salons to re-open is reduced, revealing a more KISS Falscara selected pharmacies nationwide to be still. Choose from Sleep, Sugar Coated Full Body Hair radiant and youthful-looking For those who are missing their and online from McCauleys and Breath, Balancing or Comfort Removal Kit complexion, €14.99 available lash extension appointments, McCabes pharmacies. 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esults of a survey Hub, their new online resource will be experiencing feelings of source of support used by ado- Less than half of school conducted by the leading that offers schools across Ireland anxiety, stress and loss. lescents for their mental health. youth mental health the latest tools and information The charity recognises the Research also shows that there is Rcharity, Jigsaw, shows that less to help them support young demands faced by school staff, a demand amongst teachers for staff feel confident than half of the staff in Ireland’s people’s mental health and and wants to ensure that in these quality online resources to help schools report that they feel wellbeing. challenging times they have ac- them support the mental health responding to a young confident about responding to a The launch of the hub comes cess to the support and resources and wellbeing of their students. young person with mental health at a challenging time for schools they need to feel confident and Yet teachers often feel they do difficulties. And over a quarter and their staff, managing the comfortable exploring mental not have the resources they need. person with mental report providing regular ongoing current level of restrictions health and wellbeing with young At jigsaw.ie/schools, school support to a student experiencing and living with the ongoing people. staff will find a growing range of mental health difficulties. uncertainties of the Covid-19 Previous research by Jigsaw resources created in collabora- health difficulties Jigsaw is sharing these results pandemic. Many young people, has shown that school teachers as it reveals the Jigsaw Schools and school staff themselves, are the most frequent informal Continued on next page... April 2 – April 29, 2021 41 people Health & Lifestyle Well hello April so I really hope that you have as I have the Lusso Tan Primer and it is the cut is asymmetrical at times. have been gifted a gorgeous many funny friends as I do, they fantastic and very cost friendly at about Slits are back and high. There black and red Samui canvas tote are better than any multivitamin are a lot of open backs, lovely bag that was specially commis- tonic. €18. This wonderful product contains on the ’young ones’ but the rest sioned with Cork artist Deirdre The lack of a social life Organic Witch Hazel, which refreshes of us need to choose a billowing Breen, with a 20-year anni- and working from home has the skin, locks in moisture and cleanses fabric for a more tentative take. versary logo and I adore it. So turned many of us into sweat Big puffy shoulders and sleeves practical, a statement piece and pants-aholics. Be careful, they away impurities. I’m 100 per cent will bring a big smile to the perfect for small shopping trips might feel really comfortable recommending, do give it a go! face of the girl who loves OTT too. Bags like this make a hell but they invite you to stretch fashion. What I do like about of a lot more sense than a little IMAGE them…as much as you want, this take on the look is that it handbag; they are so perfectly until you realise that there is a cinches in at the elbow so that practical while being incredibly Louise O’Dwyer whole lot more of you in them you are not left drowning in stylish at the same time. I also Image Consultant than you had hoped! Start off fabric around your wrists. I’ve think that it is such an organic this month of longer evenings fallen in love with the Chanel way to advertise a shop, your by waxing or shaving your wide-leg suit trousers in grey favourite boutique in particular. legs, belittled to the home kits I – I guess it will have to be a So, getting waxing and new month: Push your- know, but we are warriors and long-distance affair! They are stripping and painting your toes, self: Rejuvenate: Inspire warriors battle on and do what the ultimate in suave. soaking in the tub, smothering others: Laugh lots. is required. Remind whoever oped, that is when you should of your white shirts, blouses, It is time to start hunting for yourself in moisturiser, deep AI think that we are all fading a lash on moisturiser – otherwise else lives with you that, no, t-shirts, trousers – and decide your favourite Birkenstocks conditioning your hair and little, a bit like a vase of flowers you are not being murdered in it will hinder tan development. if they are still white-white, and flip-flops, no matter what is saying beautiful things to that that you really need to throw out the bathroom – no need to call Similar to a primer that you otherwise they may have to be ahead, they are like a ‘boo-boo- goddess in the mirror; yes, the or a shabby tea towel (and we the guards, you are just waxing would use before applying replaced. When I lived in New kiss’, making everything feel one looking back at you – this is all have a few of those). We all your legs, or trying to. It will make-up, a body primer creates York, my friend Martha would better before you get married the agenda for April. We are all need a boot camp of positivity be worth it. We have to look a base on the skin that not only put on a ‘vinegar white wash’ at twice! Click and collect to your miracles, against all the odds we and motivation. Some have forward, those legs will be on ensures your tan stays put and the start of the summer. The key hearts content. have survived and thrived. Hold turned into snarly teeth-show- show soon, so victorious we develops evenly, it also fills out was to do it on a day that the Good quality eye-catching up your head, flick back your ing dogs and others have just must be. pores, blurs any imperfections. sun was splitting the stones (and cloth bags have taken over. I hair and work that miracle, girl! ‘checked out’ – you know when The dreaded subject of fake Hey, it’s a win-win and they there was no shortage of days the light is on but no one is tan. Dare I even bring it up? really work. I have the Lusso like that in New York) and hang home – this never-ending lock- Well, it’s as simple as this, Tan Primer and it is fantastic them out to dry in the sunshine down is soul destroying! There, you either decide to go for the and very cost friendly at about after. You were guaranteed the I’ve said it. It needed to be ‘pale’ look or you learn how €18. This wonderful product ‘whitest’ of whites for another done. I’m completely finished to flawlessly put on fake tan. I contains Organic Witch Hazel, season. with ‘social distancing’; I’m struggled for years with cov- which refreshes the skin, locks Long paisley dresses, cinched doing the ‘physical distance’ erage on my legs; then I found in moisture and cleanses away in at the waist with a belt have thing. We need to be in contact Bondi Sands with a top up of impurities. I’m 100 per cent rec- to be the ‘must-have’ of the with each other more than ever Sally Hansen spray to cover any ommending, do give it a go! Al- season. They are so easy to before, just carefully. We need missed bits. This was the perfect ways remember that the golden wear, no fuss and can be very to look into each other eyes and solution until our weather rule to applying tan is that ‘less flattering. Choose a pattern with be reminded that everything graced us with enough sunshine is more’…it’s easier to add tan your favourite colour as the will be ok…sometime soon. to naturally tan the skin. Now a than remove it. Get practising pre-dominant colour. A bright My other life involves the world ‘tan primer’ has fallen into my now. Grab onto anything and ‘illuminating yellow hue’ and of science; neuroscience in lap and I just can’t say enough everything that will make you ‘ultimate grey’ are the colours particular this last while and, about it. This is for anyone feel better and look better! of 2021; both represent unity, as a result, I am concerned who exfoliates, moisturises and This is the best time to take stability and hope. Mix them about the long-term effects of follows all the instructions but out all of your summer clothes. together with tan or biscuit and a ‘lack of joy’ and continual still ends up with blotchy fake Have a good look through they look sensational. Bold disappointment and how this tan legs. The rest of our bodies everything. Be gentle with red and fuchsia fedora are hot will impact on our mind-set and are so much easier to tan, it’s yourself if your body shape has on their tails, the brighter the neuroplasticity moving forward. always our bloody legs that changed, a woman’s body is a better. The brightest of blues, So, now, more than ever before, throw a tantrum because the work of art, sometimes added mirroring the Aegean Sea is a it is crucially important that we skin is so different there. Most to and sometimes there is less! wonderful colour to uplift and ‘connect’ with each other. Be tan producers remind us that Scattered in among those bits change your mood…and we silly, be ridiculous, watch loads it is after tanning, not before, and pieces will be a few items need that. Consciously choose of comedies, tell funny stories that you should apply plenty that can be incorporated into to wear the brightest of colours; and remind your brain what it of moisturiser, except for those your wardrobe now, while they do impact on how you feel is like to laugh long and hard. critical knee, ankle and elbow you will have to wait a while in a very big way. The trousers A LAUGHING BOOT CAMP, parts. When the tan has devel- to wear most of it. Check all are loose, the tops are loose and that’s exactly what we all need,

...Cont’d from previous page tion with young people, school Development (via the Dormant know that this has become much better equipped in how they re- and wellbeing is all about both user friendly and impactful. staff, and parents. The resources Accounts Fund). harder. On top of all this school spond and support young people providing staff, young people For so long schools have been contribute to delivering a mental Jigsaw’s Chief Executive staff are facing greater demands. with their mental health. And we and parents with accessible looking for direct access to real health and wellbeing programme Officer, Dr Joseph Duffy, says: This is why, with the support hope that it will grow to become support and resources. A whole resources produced by skilled as part of the school curriculum. “Our Jigsaw Schools Hub of Rethink Ireland through the an indispensable resource that school approach can only be clinicians and mental health pro- And they have been tailored to at jigsaw.ie/schools is a response Innovate Together Fund, I am will contribute to the delivery of reached when all members of the fessionals, this Jigsaw Schools support school staff and students to what school staff, parents, and delighted to be launching The wellbeing as part of the school community embrace the idea of Hub will provide direct access during the Covid-19 pandemic. young people have been telling Jigsaw Schools Hub, with vital curriculum.” minding themselves and others. to a very professional support The Jigsaw Schools Hub is us they need. We know that mental health and wellbeing School teacher, Fiona Tem- “From the previous support service to all students, parents supported by Rethink Ireland schools and their staff do hugely resources to support educators at ple, says: “Having the Jigsaw Jigsaw have given us in Mulroy and school staff. It is greatly through the Innovate Together important and amazing work this uniquely difficult time. Schools Hub is an invaluable College, Donegal, we are very welcomed.” Fund, a collaboration between in helping to support young “We believe that the Jigsaw support to all members of our aware of the practical resources, To find out more about the Rethink Ireland and the Depart- people’s mental health. And Schools Hub will help school school community. Supporting the information and accessible Jigsaw Schools Hub visit jigsaw. ment of Rural and Community in the Covid-19 pandemic we staff to feel more confident and young people’s mental health toolkits they provide. They are ie/schools 42 April 2 – April 29, 2021 April Sun Signs ars is the planet represents the drive and physical Moon on the 12th in Aries adding Fundamental needs and wants are April 23 and this really pushes all stealing the show energy needed to get stuff done. to the existing planet line up in a Taurus theme and this could be- the caring and concern buttons this month. The pace Mars is currently in Gemini, an the sign of direct action. Things come a hot topic by April 19/20 over the next couple of months. Mis fast and furious for the first air sign that has two sides and is can become emotive and even when both the Sun and Mercury This brings us right back to the two weeks with an easier flow always looking for a union and get blown out of proportion due have joined with Venus there. priority issues that make us want after the New Moon when we connection between opposing to Jupiter, the planet of expan- As these three connect in early to protect what is important and finally get some time to relax and possibilities. Gemini is ruled by sion, casting rays to both the degrees of Taurus they also touch of value. The Full Moon on April review. Use the extra energy to Mercury the quicksilver planet. Sun-Moon combination and Mars in with the revolutionary planet 27 in Scorpio is ruled by Mars get ahead with some of the tasks So for about three weeks Mars too. The Sun makes a challenging of change, Uranus. This third and in a very tense dynamic with ASTROLOGY or projects that were put aside and Mercury are in the sign that connection to Pluto during April week of April can bring some this feisty planet. In the last few earlier this year. Things can take the other planet rules in what 15 and 16, which acts to remind unexpected changes and twists to days of April, we could see that Kate Arbon some interesting turns and unex- we call ‘mutual reception’. us that there is unseen and under the story and there may be some many boundaries get crossed and pected re-routes from mid-month This really puts their combined the surface, secrets and hidden new developments in practical the opportunity for inactivity or Kate Arbon is an astrologer, and it may be harder to keep the qualities to good use. Expect to agendas, cover-ups and scandals areas of our lives and our social passivity is diminished. There writer and spiritual teacher. focus on practical matters after see a lot of ideas and talk being may get highlighted around this connections. We can expect some is potential for a sudden release Living in West Cork for April 23. The month ends with asserted and directed towards time. On April 15, the energy of the major themes of 2021 to of emotion. The Sun joins with over 20 years she gives a high energy Full Moon that future expectations. The first half of fierce and determined Aries be highlighted this week as the Uranus on April 30 and this personal consultations locally has the potential for breakouts, of the month gets the benefit of focus begins to yield to a slower longer-term challenging square combination could provide a breakthroughs and a release of Jupiter being in a very supportive pace when Venus moves into her aspect of Saturn to Uranus is bolt from the blue or a wild card. and internationally using pent up tension. Things get mov- aspect to Mars and this helps to own sign of Taurus. This gives a triggered. Change and reform of It can be positive or negative traditional natal and Horary ing into a different groove when ensure that all the extra drive and gentler touch to getting what we the social structures and the tradi- depending on perspective but astrology. Mercury the planet of connection, feisty Mars energy is generally want. There can be a tendency to tional or established way of life is either way it has the potential for email: astro@katearbon communication and thinking, being directed towards beneficial step back and take time out with a keynote for this year and we get shifting the course or derailing www.katearbon.com moves into Aries to join the Sun ends. There may be a sense of this placement, as Taurus loves to see how well this is working plans in unexpected ways. March and Venus. This sign has a focus optimism and a more positive a quiet life and simple pleasures. for us this week. The restrictions, has a New Moon at 23 degrees on personal goals and actions outlook than in recent months Our attention turns to basic needs limitations and lack become Aries on April 12 at 3.30am and making this our main motivation and the feeling that action is and practical activities. There apparent whilst the benefits are a Full Moon at 8 degrees Scorpio over the next few weeks. Mars achieving good results. The Mars may be more discussion about enthusiastically promoted. Mars on April 27 at 4.31am. is the planet that rules Aries and theme continues with the New the everyday requirements of life. moves into the sign of Cancer on

Aries: With last month’s Full Moon opposite your Sun Virgo: Early April finds you concerned with your mate- Aquarius: Travel, study or spiritual matters have been sign, the spotlight has been on dealing with any relation- rial and financial security. Take time to consider if you taking your attention. Not content with anything repet- ship issues. Personal and professional partnerships will are making the best of your natural skills and talents, you itive, you’re likely to want the freedom to explore new need your attention for the next few weeks. Finding a might be underestimating yourself! Actual money isn’t ground or invite new experiences into your life. This is win-win situation for everyone has to be your goal. Inter- the only source of wealth and you’ll probably find you a great time to think big and make the most of oppor- esting and inspiring people may come into your life now and you’ll have abundance in another form. Concerns or anxieties about being tunities that come your way. An overseas contact may get in touch or want to find more time for intimate encounters or shared experiences. dependent on others may trouble you mid month. It’s a short lived new information provides the chance to break out from any restricting Your personal style and self-expression gets to be the issue later in phase if you don’t dwell on the negative and your world will open up routines to try something different. Be prepared to open your mind to April and you won’t want to be dictated to by other people’s demands. with new opportunities after Full Moon on 27th. Make plans, think big new ideas and lifestyles. Life could get hectic around mid month so Being seen and accepted on your own merit becomes priority. and remember to include your dreams. pace yourself whilst you still have some time available.

Taurus: This is a good month to organise your work or Libra: During the first weeks of April expect some extra Pisces: The next two weeks might be a trying period; focus on the tedious but necessary tasks that don’t reap attention as others want to see what you’re going to do you may feel anxious and worried about money, health obvious rewards. You’ll benefit from making adjust- next. This month you’ll need to stand up and display or concerned for other people. It will pass. You are ments especially if you’ve been overdoing it lately. Treat your self-confidence in a way that wasn’t called on simply focused on the negative side of a cycle at the ex- yourself with care and pay attention to your physical before. Make adjustments if you are not representing pense of the positive. It’s a great time to clear out what needs especially up until New Moon on April 12. Take a few days mid yourself accurately or in a way that is most true for your character. doesn’t work well in your life in preparation for the next phase. After month for some solitary or down time to reflect and restore your spirit Relationship matters occupy your mind around New Moon on the12. the New Moon April 12, you begin to acknowledge what you have in and physical vitality. After April 19, when the Sun moves into your What’s important is how these areas of your life are impacting on and terms of real assets and how you can make the best of them. Finances, own sign, you will get the boost you need, as life throws you some your lifestyle and self-expression. The trick is to handle any tense accounts and money matters improve when they get your full attention new or exciting challenges. moments with grace, state your position and move on quickly. after mid month.

Gemini: Your imaginative powers are strong and you Scorpio: During early April your inclination is to shun enjoy a chance to express your creative talents during the the limelight and keep pretty much to yourself. You next few weeks. Whatever you do it needs to give scope can be very productive in the next few weeks by just to your originality and get you noticed. Your feelings for quietly working away behind-the-scenes in seclusion. loved ones are more intense now and children may take Reconnecting with your inner world is important for an important role in your life at this time. You want to have fun and your sense of equilibrium. Valuable insights and breakthroughs are taking chances might pay off. Don’t take yourself too seriously and possible. Enjoy the quiet ‘alone time’ whilst you can as the demands you may surprise yourself at what you come up with by just playing of your outer world will encroach again soon enough. Simple practical around. Expect rewards from past efforts as we approach the month concerns about health, money or everyday responsibilities must be end. given your attention but don’t allow yourself to become over anxious later in the month. Cancer: During early April you may feel like staying home. Build up your reserves so you have plenty spare Sagittarius: This month it’s who you know rather than for later. Use this time to complete unfinished tasks what you know that matters. The spotlight is on your and don’t expect to get started on anything new until position within your community, in group ventures, or mid month. Your work or social status takes on greater work projects, which involve others of like mind. Make significance after April 12 and you’ll want to put your best effort the opportunity to meet new people; the benefits will into making the most of your situation. Putting your energy into any soon follow. It’s also time to change up a gear in your social life. The project that gives you some sense of achievement will feel important focus shifts after New Moon on April 12, as you get out the party gear now. The real rewards will become more apparent after April 19 when or just take some needed leisure time. Having fun is the theme and you can expect some well-deserved recognition. allowing the inner child some freedom to run loose now brings its rewards. Leo: Follow the urge to get out and about and make connections over the next two weeks. Expect opportuni- Capricorn: Now is the time to make plans for your ties to get more involved with your neighbours or local future. Personal status or vocational concerns are likely events. This is also a good time to catch up on corre- to dominate your thinking into mid April. If you want spondences or to do some writing. You may feel restless to fulfill your ambitions or go a step further then make if you don’t find activities that stimulate your mind. Travel, foreign some positive moves. Getting yourself some recogni- visitors or starting a new study course will likely be a feature mid tion for what you do well takes on extra significance. Remember to month and you’ll want to seek out more information or alternatives to balance the demands of work or public life with the needs of your what you already know. A boost to your work life or career is likely home life especially from mid month onwards. Family or domestic after the Full Moon. arrangements need your attention but you get the support you need to create a secure foundation to work from. April 2 – April 29, 2021 43 people Health & Lifestyle Sleep and its impact on weight loss and lifestyle changes. And rightly study, with an increased amount sugary snacks so, they can tailor training pro- of weight lost from muscles, and So basically after a while (six grams and diets to fit your goals, English researchers found that the nights according to one study) lifestyle and time schedule. insulin efficiency was declining lack of sleep will have your brain LANDON ACUPUNCTURE Find the right exercises to after just one night with sleep acting like ‘you’re a little drunk’ Helping Restore Health to Body and Mind get stronger core, a good diet to restrictions (four hours) in young – you’re more prone to make bad LANDON ACUPUNCTUREBANDON (FIONNUISCE HOLISTIC HEALTH CENTRE) show the abs, and put it all into a men. decisions and lose impulse con- schedule that still allows you time Appetite: Sleep or lack of also trol, all while your reward centre • ACUTE/CHRONIC PAIN for life outside of the gym and the influences two appetite hormones is in full gear mode and ready • RECOVERY (STROKE/BELL’S PALSY) kitchen. Leptin and Ghrelin. Leptin is the to be fulfilled. In other words • DIGESTIVE DISORDERS However, the one thing that al- hormone that makes us feel full, saying no to a piece of cake, • GENERAL WELLNESS most everyone forgets to mention and Ghrelin is the hormone that and second piece of cake, gets DIY FITNESS is the one thing that can overturn stimulates appetite. Two sleep increasingly more difficult with • REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH (see website for more info) Tania Presutti even the best diet and the most studies found that lack of sleep in- the reward centre running rampant efficient training program: Sleep. creased Ghrelin hormones and de- and appetite regulators working Stephen Landon Tel: 087 4667467 Or rather lack of sleep. creased Leptin. So following these against you. Danish freelance journalist Lack of sleep often comes findings a sleep deprived person is And to add insult to injury, the Email: [email protected] and fitness professional Tania when we are stressed or just more likely to feel hungry and eat problem of insulin not storing www.landonacupuncture.ie m Q E Presutti, who now resides in have gotten into a ‘bad pattern’ bigger portions, than a person with energy in the cells as fuel, but Clonakilty, delivers a series of of late nights or early mornings. a good, solid nights sleep. But instead in fat deposits, makes you ACUPUNCTURE •CUPPING • MOXIBUSTION Or maybe you’ve subscribed to it’s getting worse, because lack gain weight faster. Member of the Acupuncture Council of Ireland and approved by Aviva, VHI, efficient DIY fitness exercises Laya Healthcare and HSA for Out-Patient insurance purposes. you can do at home. the persistent myth that efficient of sleep also seems to boost the For muscle growth, the same people only sleeps a few hours ‘Reward centres’ in the brain. picture dominates the research every night? Food choices: Sleep studies findings. A huge study conducted While individual exceptions also show people with less than in China amongst 10,125 students for fuel. What happens in the body morning. Even on weekends. ow are you? How are exist and it’s true some few when we train in the gym (or use * No screens one hour before you and your loved ones individuals manage well on the muscles in repeated exercise) bed; read a book instead, knit, holding up? The past year less sleeping, most adults need is the muscles break down (mi- or if you have to look at a Hhave been tough on all of us in between seven and nine hours of croscopically), and need growth screen, turn the light down and different ways and, as an active sleep every night to function best. hormones and pro-inflammatory use a night filter if your device person, who enjoys training and There are of course a boat-load of compounds to repair the damages. has one. running, the past year has tested benefits that comes with getting One major hormone, which * Sleep in a dark room. Darkness my resolve to stay active many enough sleep, from more mental mediates this process, is HGH cues the body to release mela- times. With gyms closed, no clubs, clarity to better impulse control. In (human growth hormone), which tonin (a natural sleep hormone), and at some point only a short this month’s column, I will look is controlled by circadian rhythm, while light suppresses it. distance around home allowed into some of the negatives lack of which means most of the hormone * Avoid big meals close to for running, I had to devise sleep is responsible for, namely in is released by night. So if you are bedtime, as this can cause home training for myself and regards to weight loss and muscle training hard to get the abs pop- heartburn, and makes it hard my toddler, finding new running gain. ping for summer or strong arms to fall asleep. Also avoid tea or routes (often in circles) and come There are three big keys to for the gun show, remember to eat coffee (caffeine rich drinks) in up with tons of home training weight loss, which are affected your proteins and sleep well. As the late afternoon and evening, programs. by too little sleep: Metabolism, the saying goes ‘muscles are made as this can stay in your system This April is no different for appetite and food choices. in the kitchen’, and one could add for up to five to six hours. me. I’ll be running and looking Metabolism: Lack of sleep ‘used in the gym and recovered * Create a nice bedtime ritual, into new strength training exercis- messes with the metabolism. (and grown) in your sleep’. which put you into relaxation es at home – and in this column When we eat food, the body So sleep better and be more mode. This could be a warm I will look into one of the most produces insulin to take glucose successful with your training bath, meditation or a good overlooked areas when it comes to (sugar, starch and other foods) and see better results, it will also book. weight loss and wellness. I hope from the blood and stores it in be easier to make the healthier you will learn as much as I have, cells using glucose as energy, but choices in the kitchen and keeping I wish you a happy Easter, a when I started to look into this lack of sleep reduces the body’s portions normal sized. wonderful April and a good area of health. ability to response to insulin, If you’re struggling with sleep, night’s sleep. Comments and Fitness trainers, personal train- and the insulin stores the glucose seven hours of sleep to be more found that too little sleep results I found these tips to be useful: questions are as always welcome ers, coaches and nutritionists are in fat deposits instead of cells inclined to choose carbohydrate in decreased muscle mass and less at taniaskitchenfitness@gmail. the go-to people when it comes to using it for fuel. Dieters in sleep rich food and snacks. So not muscle strength. As mentioned * Have a routine for going to bed com or via @trainwithadane on weight loss, muscle gain, improv- studies showed 55 per cent less only are we feeling more hungry, earlier, less sleep also causes the at the same time each night, and Instagram ing sports or fitness performance weight loss of fat during a 14-day we also crave all the fatty, salty, body to tap into the muscle mass getting up the same time each Spring into Storytime at Bantry Protect Our Native Kelp Forest campaign Cork County Library launches sale of original arts and crafts ork County Council Library and Arts Service is delighted to bring ‘Spring into Storytime’ 2021 to the children and families of County ll artists and crafts part – there is no need to be a returned to the artist at the end ecosystems, and members of Cork. ‘Spring into Storytime’ is Ireland’s public libraries annual people in West Cork professional! Prices can start of the sale if desired. the community were concerned Ccelebration of families reading together. During the month of April 2021, and beyond are invited as low at €5, or be as high as More information about the about the detrimental effects to ‘Spring into Storytime’ events will be delivered online by Cork County Ato use the current lockdown to €500 or more, pieces can be Campaign marine life, local business and Council Library and Arts Service to bring the magic of storytime directly to your home. get creative to ‘Help the Kelp’ framed or unframed, and be of The Bantry Protect Our tourism. As well as supporting Mayor of the County of Cork Cllr Mary Linehan Foley, commented The Campaign to Protect the any subject. Native Kelp Forest campaign an on-going legal case, which “Children have wonderful imaginations and reading feeds their creativity. Native Kelp Forests of Bantry Contributors are asked to was formed in response to the opposes the licence, the group Reading a book with your child, at all ages, boosts their brain development Bay will be holding a display drop off their work at Fastnet granting of a licence to permit actively takes part in citizen and is a great bonding activity. Our Cork County library service is here and sale of art and craft works Printing, Bantry by April 15, the mechanical harvesting of science surveys, beach cleans, to guide and support you in your reading adventures. During Spring into Storytime, this April, you are invited you to celebrate storytime with online at the Bantry Bay Hotel, as 2021 or call 085 8308918 to kelp forests in Bantry Bay, and is forming a snorkelling/ readings from library staff. There’s a host of other activities planned too, soon as restrictions allow, with make an alternative arrange- Cork. The license to extract scuba club. with instructional craft videos for children to celebrate Easter and Spring and all donations going towards ment. A label should be ‘firm- 1860 acres of Kelp seaweed For more information about online storytime book recommendations from staff featuring titles available the cost of the on-going legal ly’ attached to the work stating was granted with no public the Art Display and Sale, on the library BorrowBox E-Book and E-Audio app.” case to prevent the mechanical the artist or craft person’s name consultation, no requirement please call Emily: 086 8879766 There will be an online storytime workshop for parents and teachers pre- harvest of the Kelp Forest of and contact number (or anon if for an Environmental Impact or Catherine: 085 8308918. sented by literacy expert Catherine Gilliland and online ‘Rhyme and Sign’ storytime sessions for parents and babies presented by Claire Glynn. Bantry Bay. preferred) with the Title, Medi- Assessment and inadequate For the Kelp Campaign visit ‘Spring into Storytime’ launches April 1, 2021, visit Cork County Council Everyone, including chil- um, Size and Price of the piece. advertising. Kelp forests are www.bantrybaykelpforest.com Library and Arts Service Facebook and Twitter channels for story-time and dren, is encouraged to take Any work that is unsold can be the foundation of many marine children’s craft events throughout the month of April. 44 April 2 – April 29, 2021 people Arts & Entertainment West Cork artist participating in PLATFORM 31 isual Artist Tomasz ists help to bring meaning and Madajczak has been new perspectives to our lives.” awarded Cork County After receiving his MA from VCouncil’s PLATFORM 31 bur- the Fine Arts Academy Poznań sary. He is one 31 artists across in 2003, Tomasz emigrated Ireland awarded the €8,000 from Poland to Ireland and now bursary to invest in their prac- lives in West Cork. His art prac- tice, participate in an advisory, tice consists of photography, developmental framework and drawing, video and installation. be part of a peer network. He often collaborates with Irish PLATFORM 31 is the nation- and international artists and is wide artist development scheme an established figure in the Irish created by the 31 Local Author- arts community. Tomasz has ity Arts Offices, in collaboration also exhibited in Poland, Ger- with the Arts Council. many, the Netherlands, Sweden Mayor of the County of Cork and Pakistan. Cllr Mary Linehan Foley com- Council Arts Office to identify Madajczak’s current project, and respond to the needs of mented, “For over thirty-five “No Space” will be the focus of individuals to collaborate with will allow Tomasz’s project to approaching his art practice and Cork artists, keeping the arts years Local Authority Arts Of- his participation in PLATFORM him, where they shared the evolve in a new direction, of he hopes to share and move and cultural agenda relevant fices have worked directly with 31. Starting in 2020 shortly experience of spaces (physical land and connections with place the project further through new in changing environments. artists to ensure the arts thrive after the pandemic began, it was and mental) and their specific and how this influences culture. collaborations, transcultural PLATFORM 31 recognises in all communities. Working in initially supported by the Arts nature. For Madajczak, the pandemic experiences and different ap- the central place in our culture a grass roots and foundational Council’s Covid-19 funding The Platform 31 bursary has created a space for deep proaches to art as an alternative occupied by creative artists. Art- way has allowed Cork County scheme. He invited artists and and developmental programme reflection and new ways of language. ‘Ginger Nuts’ enjoys successful radio debut ‘Ginger Nuts’ per- do anything but we do learn that INSPIRATO theatre festival. stage.” energetic group, who Donna technicians, sound technicians she has a softer, more serious ‘Ginger Nuts’ is Donna’s second The second challenge was the says like to “work hard but love and marketing gurus. I would formed by members of nature too.” play. scene changes. “When on stage, to laugh”. New members are encourage anyone that is inter- Gaggin Drama Group A native of Bandon, Donna Donna describes writing for it is quite easy to know when always welcome. “We need writ- ested to check out our Facebook was one of three Cork O’Regan is a German and radio as “challenging and vastly a scene breaks and a character ers, actors, producers, directors, and Instagram pages and get in Spanish teacher at Sacred Heart different to writing for stage. leaves or enters the stage,” backstage managers, lighting contact.” plays accepted into the Secondary School, Clonakilty. “The first main difference she explains. “When writing inaugural Clare Radio Acting since childhood, she’s was establishing characters,” for radio, I had to consider the Ardfield’s Samuel Heffernan Drama Play Festival always had an interest in musical she says. “I ambitiously wrote sound effects and how I could theatre and started producing the the play with eight different announce a character’s arrival. in March, the results annual school musical at Sacred characters: Six female roles and One of the characters Tony, who receives special commendation of which will be an- Heart under the direction of Mrs two male roles. There are not too is the hospital porter, constantly in national art competition Eileen Nolan of Montforts. She many comedies that I have come whistles and Dolly who works nounced on April 4. has since completed a Diploma across with multiple female roles in catering has a squeaky tea even-year-old Samuel his school, Ardfield National in Speech and Drama teaching. so that was important to me. I trolley. These subtleties helped Heffernan from Ardfield, School. He is often found sitting escribed as a comedy Donna has been a member of needed the audience to know creating the atmosphere and with Clonakilty was recently outdoors sketching landscapes with a poignant twist, Sselected for a Special Com- of the sea, farmland and cliffs. If Gaggin Drama Group for a who the characters were without the story telling.” the play, which is set in mendation in the ‘This is Art’ he isn’t sketching, he is busy on number of years and in 2016, on the aid of visual clues. ‘Ginger Nuts’ was broadcast Da hospital ward in West Cork, competition, an exciting new his tractor, which he loves. His relocating to Toronto in Canada, “On stage we have facial on Scariff Bay Radio on Satur- was written by local teacher online art competition created in hopes are to be an organic farmer she joined the Toronto Irish expressions, body language, day, March 13 and received a Donna O’Regan and performed partnership between RTÉ and the and an artist. Players; during this time she props, lighting, costumes, and great reaction. Gaggin Drama by Gaggin Drama Group. It is Creative Ireland Programme. was nominated for two ACTRA movement. For radio, we must Group has never entered a na- available as a podcast on Spotify One of the judges of the RTE awards for Best Actor and Best create a whole world just using tional festival with the Amateur and itunes. and Creative Ireland Programme, Supporting Actor. While living sound. It was important to me in Drama League of Ireland so this The main character in the Fatti Burke commented: “‘The in Toronto, she also wrote her rehearsals that the actor’s voices was a first for the group. “The Wild Life’ is a really exciting play, protagonist Bridie, gets a first play ‘Sinking Feelings’, were distinct and crystal clear competition is very stiff with artwork, and the most striking lot more than she bargains for af- which was accepted into the when it came to the recording groups such as the Ennis Play- thing about it is Samuel’s use of ter being admitted for surgery. A ers, Balally players and Kilmeen the markers to create movement strange yet familiar face comes involved and they would all be and texture in the scene. I loved to Bandon during lockdown and big names on the circuit,” says the pink sky contrasting with her furtive behaviour soon sets Donna. the greens and browns of the tongues wagging. “The result will be announced woods where the squirrel sits. A Playwright Donna O’Regan on Easter Sunday, April 4 and lot of care has been put into the says the play was inspired by animal’s fur, and it shows a great we remain hopeful! Above all her childhood. “The setting, the imagination and creativity by the else, we are very proud to have characters, the comedy are all artist”. put Gaggin on the map and we fragments of my own reality as The competition was hope to take our future plays on a child. My friend Pam Golden launched to allow art to unite the circuit.” was certainly a muse for the people and at the same time to Donna has recently started antics of the protagonist Bridie,” fill our world with beauty. An writing her third play, which is she explains. overwhelming amount of 9,000 keeping her occupied during entries were received from all The play is named after the lockdown. Next for the Gaggin across the country. main character who has three Drama Group is to put ‘Ginger Samuel was delighted to re- red-haired children she likes to Nuts’ on stage. The group has ceive his special commendation refer to as her ‘ginger nuts’. The also been rehearsing ‘Lucy in the along with a voucher to spend infamous biscuits also make an Sky’ a wonderful one act and we on art supplies and his certificate appearance. are looking forward to bringing which he will treasure. “Bridie is the local busy body it to an audience. Samuel loves art and is and has a roguish charm,” says Gaggin is a creative and always encouraged to be creative Donna. “She is liable to say and at home with his family and at April 2 – April 29, 2021 45 people Arts & Entertainment Shadow Play: The ink paintings of Laura Wade whilst the shadow’s edge may or place to sooth, both for” define the figure or object from herself “and the viewer.” which it is cast, within its dark Each of the works are punctu- lake there is a night sky, a void, ated by rings of pinholes, which a well, pulsing with mystery and cluster like spherical murmura- promise. Anything may emerge tions, simultaneously focusing from the void, and this potential- on and veiling the scenes they ity charges the imagination with puncture. The beauty of Wade’s a latent excitement. puncturing lies in the carefully The silhouetted figure be- considered optics of her design: comes a portal, a dark beam into together the pinhole clusters an endlessly watchable night. form perfect spheres, the illusion And so begins a metamorpho- of form arising from a greater THE SHAPE sis from what is cast into what number of holes punctured OF THINGS could be, a transfiguration of closer to the circular ‘edge’, shapes, both other-worldly and giving the impression of a core James Waller utterly of the world. This is the shadow on a spherical mass. In story of ‘Unfurl’ from 2019, part darker works, such as ‘Unfurl’, James Waller is an Australian of Wade’s collection ‘Unfurling’ discussed earlier, the pinholes born artist and poet based in of the same year. The ink-black take on a stellar dimension, West Cork. Through this col- silhouette profile of a head un- breathing out of the black ink umn James explores the world furls backwards into the curling like glimmering stars in the silhouette of leafy fronds. Head night sky. of art, introducing the reader to and foliage are conjoined, the Of her pinhole technique major works of art and artists impossible becoming the possi- Wade says that “the perforations and reflecting on what makes ble in the play of the dark. add another layer of intrigue and them so engaging. Her work, ‘Reflect’, from the maybe refer to something other.” same series, inverts this play of She says she enjoys “how the silhouette and light; the profile tactile quality of the little minute hadows are the drawings of nose, lips and chin is deftly pinholes draw the viewer into of the sun, blooming defined by a flow of ‘back- the painting.” shapes cast by the body ground’ dark, the full profile Wade’s use of a spherical Sagainst its brilliant light, whilst thence emerging as a paradox- overlay in ‘Quell’ is indicative silhouettes are the body-as- ical gap of light amidst black of a broad use of geometric shadow, limned by the sun’s foliage. overlays throughout her work. perfection. Art is literally every- Sequence by Laura Wade As if to accentuate the starry, In ‘Sequence I’ (2017) trian- where we walk, for whenever organic promise of her inky gular ‘windows’ float over a we cast a shadow we create a worlds, Wade employs what has peach-pink-sky-tree-scape. The Poetic Beats: magical other, a fluid, animated become two signature elements triangular ‘windows’ are formed origami-style, into an Egyptian impression, like ink flowing on in her work: the perforation, and in the negative, by clusters of pyramid. Perforations play their stone. the geometric overlay. pinholes along and around their part here as well, ‘backlighting’ Enter the world of Shadows simplify and flow, Perforations are a key element edges. These perforated overlays the main pyramidal form and like ink from the brush, which is in Wade’s 2021 collection of ink are complemented by solid black echoing its lines in a second per- perhaps why the black ink works works, titled ‘Quell’. ‘Quell’ is triangular forms at the bottom forated structure. The minimal Insomnia’s Gates of Cork-born artist Laura Wade a series of softly silhouetted tree edge of the composition. colour and somber tonality add a gravitate towards the silhouette, and river-scapes, which the artist ‘Temple III’, a paper collage wonderful gravitas to the image, ames Waller’s debut poetry collection lights up the page with medium and optics being natu- started in January “as a personal from 2018 takes the overlay underscoring its quasi-mystical searing images of love, loss, tenderness and enchantment. Written rally aligned. response to these strange times.” further, by cutting and pasting feel. with a painter’s sensibility, Insomnia’s Gates takes the reader The magic of Laura Wade’s Wade states that she “wanted elements of inked landscape into The geometric overlay is a Jon a colour-filled journey from the environs of Melbourne and the ink work is, likewise, aligned each piece to be like a gentle pyramidal forms, as if the land- deeply intriguing device and Australian bush to the painted canvases and mythologies of Europe. to the magic of the shadow, for line of poetry, offering a pause scape itself had been folded up, propels Wade’s work beyond The book collates James’ first three collections of poetry written in neo-romantic gesture towards the summer and autumn of 2005. Based in West Cork, James runs the neo-modernist sublime. the Clonakilty School of Painting and is a full time artist and writer. Asked about this aspect of her For more of his work and for links to the book, visit: jameswaller.org. work Wade suggests that the Insomnia’s Gates is available now on Amazon for €12. shapes “relate to a sense of “Waller’s exquisitely weighted lines have a precise and spry navigation or search for place,” musicality that never jars. The integration and accretion of image and adding “another layer of mystery sound…lead to moments of astonishment that are not infrequent.” to the painting.” –Nicholas Powell There is a beautiful restraint in Laura Wade’s creative language. The diverse formal elements, For Osip including ink wash, silhouette, “...and the centuries / Surround me with fire.” perforation, geometric overlay - Osip Mandelstam and collage are combined in ever-inventive and stimulating ways. Whilst shadows may be A hand from a passing boat the drawings of the sun, geom- Lifts shadow etry is the star of the human Cold is sung mind; in the shadow plays and And lifted overlays of Wade’s ink paintings Into the boat of night the two converge. Bars creep along the moon Silver cigarettes James offers a range of stu- Flaring in a cool torch dio-based courses for children You wandered among and adults in Classical painting, Reflections drawing and printmaking at A shadow of the song you were Clonakilty School of Painting. Passing See www.paintingschool. Fragments of heaven jameswaller.org for details. To those who stood with you Temple III by Laura Wade 46 April 2 – April 29, 2021 people Arts & Entertainment New shows at The Everyman Digital platform for he Everyman has gone be available as an on-demand contemporary Irish writing digital. It will be a while video stream from Friday, he Museum of Litera- arrivals to the Irish literary before audiences will April 16, for ten days. John ture Ireland (MoLI), in scene including Dara McAn- Tbe back in the theatre for a real McCarthy is a familiar face association with UCD’s ulty, Emma Dabiri and Mi- live, interactive, experience so for The Everyman audiences TSchool of English, Drama and chelle Gallen. Members of the The Everyman have launched and was nominated as Best Sup- Film have launched a new Museum of Literature Ireland the next best thing – and it’s porting Actor at the Irish Times digital platform for Contem- have nominated a number of all Made in Cork. Theatre Awards in 2019 for his porary Irish Writing. The these titles, warmly endorsing “I’m thrilled to announce a performance as Valene in The online platform – at www. them for future readers. varied programme of digi- Everyman’s production of The ContemporaryIrishWriting.ie Speaking on the launch of tal work for The Everyman, Lonesome West in 2018. – features an exciting selection the platform, the project leader while the doors to the theatre There are two audio of 100 titles from the wealth of Professor Margaret Kelleher, continue to stay closed,” says streamed productions to enjoy contemporary Irish literature. Chair of Anglo-Irish Literature Sophie Motley, The Everyman’s as part of The Everyman’s The website is a must-use and Drama at University Col- Artistic Director. “With The well-received Play It by resource for readers, book lege Dublin commented: “We Corner House Session, our Ear series. Gavin McEntee club members, teachers and have created ContemporaryIr- collaboration with Islander, we directs a live rehearsed reading enthusiasts! ishWriting.ie for the enjoy- bring the very best of live music of the hilariously creepy A The platform launched on ment of readers everywhere, to your eyes and ears, plus Skull in Connemara by Martin April 1 with an online event and to address the challenges the cheeky reminder of how McDonagh on Saturday, 10th featuring readings from Mi- particular to research and wonderful it will be to be back April. Martin McDonagh’s chelle Gallen, Anna Heussaff, teaching in contemporary in the pub ourselves. There’s trademark black humour will Peadar Ó Guilín and Emilie writing, including the difficulty some excellent local directors have you squirming in your seat Pine. of access to some source mate- and performers presenting audio music streaming from the most evening session, a major lure and howling with laughter as it ContemporaryIrishWriting. rial, especially for international recordings of brilliant contem- iconic Cork venues, begin- for traditional music enthusi- delves in to the underbelly of ie features books written in readers. It has been a pleasure porary theatre, and a five part ning with The Corner House asts, with the well-established rural Irish town rumours. both English and Irish, ranging to capture, through this digital audio treat for young audiences Session, featuring piper Eoin Wednesday night residency. A Graffiti Theatre Company from fiction and poetry to resource, the dynamism of from Graffiti, alongside a world Ó Riabhaigh, fiddle and flute highly energetic, and entertain- and The Everyman present a memoir, young adult fiction contemporary conversations premiere of John McCarthy’s player Johnny McCarthy, box ing, performance full of musical five-part adventure for young and children’s literature. Each regarding Irish writing, and new play City. Artists are our player and songwriter Con magic and humour can be children and schools with an of the 100 entries offers the to promote not only these 100 life blood, and theatre needs Fada Ó Drisceoil and guitar and anticipated with the live video audio streamed production opportunity to enjoy inter- titles but also their hundreds of to remain in our veins. Having bouzouki player Pat ‘Herring’ stream of Behind the Curtain: of This Girl Laughs, This Girl views and conversations with siblings.” streamed performance is the Ahern. For years, The Corner The Corner House Session on Cries, This Girl Does Noth- the author, to read reviews Simon O’Connor, Director next best thing to experiencing House on Coburg Street has Friday, April 2. This is a free ing by Finegan Kruckemeyer, and responses to the literary of MoLI, added: “Creating it in person, and reminds us been known as the home of event, with ticket holders asked made available throughout the works, and to explore other and diversifying access to the of the importance of artists in the best traditional musicians to donate what they can with all month of May and supported online resources relating to this treasures of Irish literature is our society, and our communi- in the city. Its hospitality, and monies going directly towards by a resource pack. There’s dynamic field of contemporary central to MoLI’s mission, ty. I’m delighted to be virtually open-armed welcome have employing local musicians and something different every week, writing. driving much of our digital meeting and presenting the very made it the stomping ground artists to develop, and present, so plug in, charge up, sit back Featured authors include and learning programmes in best of Cork’s music and theatre for visiting musicians to call new performances. or go for a walk and enjoy The well-known novelists ranging particular. ContemporaryIr- community.” and engage with the high-qual- The Everyman continues Everyman, your local theatre, from Anna Burns to Colm ishWriting.ie creates so many A collaboration with Is- ity sessions that take place on to support artists with CITY, a wherever you are. Tóibín, memoirists Doireann opportunities for readers to lander will launch the first in a a weekly basis. The coming new solo work written, and per- Ní Ghríofa, Emilie Pine, discover new work, and to series of Behind the Curtain live together of these four musicians formed, by John McCarthy on Book at everymancork.com Sinéad Gleeson and Patrick deepen their interest in familiar music events which will have brings together the Thursday The Everyman stage, which will Freyne, and also more recent books and writers.”

Reimagined Cork International Choral Festival invites choirs from around the world to compete without needing to travel

he world-renowned Cork Europe’s premier international work in this year’s Séan Ó Ria- national and international A International Choral choral festivals, and this year German group ONAIR da Composition Competition. Cappella Video Competitions, Festival has announced will be no exception. With over Saturday night will see one of while entries for the National Tthat it will go ahead this year in 30 international choirs sched- Ireland’s most acclaimed vocal Open Competitions remain a reimagined format. uled to take part. ensembles, Resurgam also in St. strong. The prestigious choral Usually concerts, events and Finbarre’s Cathedral. The Sun- Anyone, musical or not, can festival, which normally attracts competitions would take place day closing gala concert will see also join in with the festival’s 5,000 singers and 50,000 in over 90 venues across Cork. a performance from a group that FREE online workshops in visitors from all over the world This year, four specially curated was scheduled to play as part of partnership with Sing Ireland, to Cork city and county, will be gala concerts will be staged the cancelled 2020 Festival with including the ever-popular Big held virtually for the first time online during the festival, which German group ONAIR taking Sing, a group singing expe- ever, from April 28 to May 2, attendees can enjoy from the to the stage. rience led online this year by allowing international choirs to comfort of their own homes, Gala concert tickets will be Ardú contemporary ensemble compete and participate without wherever they are in the world. available to book online from director, Ciarán Kelly, who will the need to travel. The Festival will open corkchoral.ie. prepare participants for one big The globally renowned on Wednesday night with a The competition strand of the uplifting online performance. Choral Festival was founded in specially commissioned poem festival is expected to remain Details of all concerts, 1954, making it Cork’s longest by Corkonian Billy Ramsell. fiercely competitive, with a workshops and competitions running festival. Last year Thursday evening (April 29) newly expanded national and are available on the festival was only the second time in will see an online broadcast Chamber Choir Ireland, the pated to be an exhilarating per- international programme via website. For more information its history that the festival had performance by Ireland’s best festival’s choir in residence, formance including with world video submission. This year, the or to book tickets see www. to be cancelled. Noted for its known and most diverse choral will perform from Cork’s St. premiere of ‘On A Quiet Day In festival launches its inaugural corkchoral.ie #CorkChoral high competitive and non-com- group, Anúna, directed by Fin Barre’s Cathedral on Friday the Future’, Dublin composer Ibec Workplace Choir of the petitive standards, it is one of Michael McGlynn. April 30, with what is antici- Norah Walsh’s prizewinning Year Competition, as well as April 2 – April 29, 2021 47 people Arts & Entertainment Not so disposable by DeBarra’s Spoken camera. Once developed, the channel that features a video. age audience members to write photos were randomly distrib- Emily explains on the video their own piece in response to Word team uted among them, the pictures how a search for inspiration led one of the ‘disposable photos’ n Wednesday, April 21, serving as ekphrastic writing her to come up with the dispos- that hasn’t been used yet. They from 8.30pm onward, prompts: Hence ‘The Dispos- able camera idea and why she can then read out loud what De Barra’s Spoken able Stories’ title. likes the restriction of “having they’ve produced, if they so OWord will host a reading of the Ekphrasis is a Greek word. to capture something in just two want. The prize? A virtual pint ‘The Disposable Stories’, a new According to the dictionary it shots” instead of the seemingly of genuinely Irish Guinness multimedia literary magazine, means, ‘Calling up a subject endless (but often meaningless) “from the comfort of your own created by Emily Titsworth. before the eyes with visual possibilities of a digital phone home”. The evening will close Originally from Mount Olive, vividness’. So words are used camera. Plus, how her home with an Open Mic that is open Illinois in the US, Emily has to create a ‘picture in the mind’ town is connected to this part of to all-comers from everywhere. been resident in Cork in the past but one that can be compared to Ireland via a remarkable woman A Zoom link will be sent to year. The ten contributors on the actual picture that inspired called Mother Jones, aka Mary the mailing list and posted on the night – including DeBarra’s it. It says something about how G. Harris, ‘the most dangerous DeBarra’s Spoken Word on the very own Lauren Cavanagh – all our minds can work so dif- woman in America’ who was day. If you wish to be added to are all students on the Creative ferently, even when faced with probably born in Street, the list, please email debarrass- Writing MA programme at Uni- the exact same visual (or crime Cork, and buried in the Union [email protected]. versity College Cork and also scene, but that’s a different Miners Cemetery in Mount Ol- contributors to the magazine. story). ive. Vincent van Gogh’s Starry Right: Cover of The Dispos- For this particular project, Further information about the Night also gets a look-in. able Stories by Mahito Indi each participant took two event can be found on DeBar- Following the readings, a Henderson photographs using a disposable ra’s Spoken Word YouTube brief exercise that will encour- A celebration of West Cork Arts Centre the short story announce Isolation20 illinn West Cork Arts encompassing their individual also shows that collectively, Centre is delighted to voices to create a collective even while apart we can share present “Isolation20”, a voice. The result is a composi- a togetherness and sense of Unew composition by Clonakilty tion that uses digital technology community. The “Isolation20” based composer Justin Grounds in a creative way to enable all project represents the power of at Uillinn Galleries, funded as twenty members to participate. collaboration and the strength part of Cork County Council’s The project dealt creatively of music when harnessed to Creative Ireland Programme. with the theme of isolation address challenges such as Following a public call in and focused on each person’s loneliness. The Arts has been July 2020, twenty singers came experience to respond to the an enduring source of comfort forward to participate in the Covid-19 pandemic, practically, and hope for many over the project which focused on their symbolically and creatively in a past twelve months. I congrat- experience of life in isolation collective manner. ulate all involved on bringing following the onset of Covid 19. Mayor of the County of Cork, this unique musical project to The project was developed and Cllr. Mary Linehan Foley wel- fruition and have no doubt that created with a diverse group comed the project saying, it will bring joy to many in Cork of volunteers from throughout “In a time where we have County and beyond.” County Cork, over a period of had to stay apart to keep each For further information on eight months. other safe and well, this piece “Isolation20” visit www.uillinn- Composer Justin Grounds explores the isolation felt by galleries.com worked with the singers, many during the pandemic but

oin West Cork Literary the legacy of the Troubles. visceral, stunningly crafted New decade for Reeling in the Years Festival on Tuesday, April 6 Lucy Caldwell’s ‘Intimacies’ stories, people are effortlessly he new series of ‘Reeling at 7pm, for a celebration of exquisitely charts the steps cruel to one another, and the in the Years’ will air from Jthe short story to mark the pub- and missteps of young women natural world is a primitive Sunday, April 11 at 8.30pm lication of Jan Carson’s ‘The trying to find their place in salve. Announcing a major new Ton RTÉ One and RTÉ Player. Last Resort’. Jan is joined by the world. These are stories of voice in literary fiction for the From Katie Taylor to , fellow Irish short story writers love, loss, and exile, of new twenty-first century, these sharp from Mrs Brown’s Boys to the Lucy Caldwell, Adrian Duncan, beginnings and lives lived away shocks of stories offer flashes marriage referendum, from ‘Fake Louise Kennedy, and John from ‘home’. Intimacies offers of beauty, and even humour, News’ to Fidget Spinners, Reeling Patrick McHugh, whose new keenly felt and subtly revealing amidst the harshest of truths. in the Years showcases the stories collections are also published insights into the heartbreak and Set on an imagined island off and the soundtrack of Ireland over this year. hope of modern life. the west coast of Ireland, ‘Pure the last decade. Each half-hour programme features a specific In Jan Carson’s new Midfield Dynamo is the Gold’ is John Patrick McHugh’s year between 2010 and 2019, collection, ‘The Last Resort’, first collection of short stories debut collection of stories and it combining contemporary chart residents of Seacliff Caravan by award-winning author conjures a complete and varied hits with some of the most mem- shows, with its repeats regularly time to look back. We made Park visit their caravans for the Adrian Duncan. Patterning and cast of characters – some lost, orable moments in news, current performing strongly in the ratings. the Nineties series in 2000, the first half-term of the year. In happenstance make up the rich some lonely, many dreaming affairs, sport and entertainment. The IFTA-nominated show has Noughties series in 2010, and this stunning linked short-story quotidian lives of the charac- and others self-deceiving. This is the sixth series of Reel- also been voted the ‘most popular now we’re adding another 10 collection, Jan explores com- ters portrayed in these strange, ing in the Years, with the years home-produced TV show ever’ years to the collection. We’re plex family dynamics, ageing, energetic tales. Tuesday, April 6, 2021, 7pm from 1962 to 2009 covered to in an RTÉ Guide poll of Ireland’s pleased to offer viewers this latest immigration, gender politics, In ‘The End of the World is a Admission €5. To book, visit date. Reeling in the Years is con- Top 100 TV shows. selection of music and moments the decline of the Church and Cul de Sac’, Louise Kennedy’s www.westcorkmusic.ie. sistently one of RTE’s best-loved Producer John O’Regan says: from RTÉ’s archives.” “The end of a decade is a natural 48 April 2 – April 29, 2021 people Arts & Entertainment Kinsale based furniture maker wins 2021 RDS Craft Award ive of Ireland’s most art, Paul trained as a furniture (Fashion Design) Dublin. talented emerging craft maker in London before return- Dr Jennifer Goff of the makers have been rec- ing home to Ireland to work National Museum of Ireland Fognised with a €10,000 bursary with Joseph Walsh Studio for chaired an experienced inde- each for the development of two years before establishing pendent judging panel: “The their craft and/or business skills his own business in 2017. His panel was overwhelmed with as part of the 2021 RDS Craft approach to design is contempo- the quality of work to choose Awards. One of the most presti- rary, minimal and elegant. Paul this year’s winners from. gious awards in the craft sector, endeavours to make beautifully Craft makers from Ireland are this year the RDS Craft Awards crafted furniture with a lightness increasingly sought after around recognised makers ranging from of touch incorporating subtle the world. Irish craft is having a fashion to furniture, knife-mak- details such as shadow lines moment and this year’s winners, ing to glass-making. With a total and organic curves. He plans to and indeed the longlist too, are fund of €50,000, the awards grow his business, create new testament to that. I know that all are the largest annual prize fund work and move into the inter- five winners will use the prize for craft makers in Ireland and national export market. Paul money to accelerate their career are given at a critical time in will use the bursary money to progression and I look forward early professional careers. In purchase new equipment which to seeing their future success.” Furniture-maker Paul O’Brien. addition to the €10,000 bursary, will allow him to increase the Geraldine Ruane, RDS Chief Pic Shane O’Neill/Coalesce the award winners are provided scope of what he could make in Executive said, “Irish craft with a free stand at Gifted – a more efficient manner. www. businesses are characteristically RDS helped establish 50 years virtual interview process in eligible to apply for the RDS The Contemporary Craft & modet.ie small in scale and are geograph- ago, have over 3,000 registered mid-March. The funds can be Craft Awards, emerging craft Design Fair held in the RDS in This year’s other recipients ically widespread, however the client enterprises and engages spent on further education and makers must have won a Design December. are Sam Gleeson (Bladesmith) industry is a key employer and with over 150 retailers across training, research, develop- & Crafts Council Ireland, Fu- One of the five was Paul Co. Clare; Jenny Mulligan makes a significant contribu- the country who specialise in ment of new work, mentoring, ture Makers Award or Support O’Brien, a furniture designer (Glass), currently based in tion to the Irish economy. The selling Irish craft products.” purchase of equipment, studio in the preceding year. and maker based in Kinsale. Sweden; Katie Spiers (Glass), Design & Crafts Council of The bursaries were present- improvements, technology, With a background in visual Dublin/Wicklow; Ciara Allen Ireland (DCCoI), which the ed following a competitive website and residencies. To be Express your creativity with the Irish 2021 West Cork Chamber Wildlife Trust WildArt competition he Irish Wildlife Trust through their imagination and create an art piece inspired by music festival to move online has launched the second creativity.” that wildlife. edition of their children’s Art and nature have always So get informed, get creative Tart competition WildArt. The gone hand in hand. From early and have fun. For details of Flautist Mary-Ellen Nagle Pic: Darragh Kane competition will engage children cave drawings to modern fashion the competition rules as well as in the wonders of local wildlife styles, nature is a constant source instructions on how to enter, see (within their lockdown surround- of inspiration. It is hoped that the competition webpage here ings of course!). Children up this project will inspire young iwt.ie/wildart. to the age of 18 years of age people to learn about Irish The competition is open from are invited to enter by creating wildlife in their area and then now until 19 April. a drawing, painting, model or collages on the theme: ‘Irish Wildlife within my 5k’. There are four age categories with a prize for the winner in each category. The age catego- ries are 6 and under; 7 to 10; 11 to 14 and 15 to 18 years. “We were delighted with the engagement we had last year, so we decided to run the compe- tition again. This year, even though we are unfortunately in est Cork Chamber distancing. tival. Building on the experienc- a similar position with regard Music Festival, The festival’s plans for a live es of last year, a larger online to the lockdown, we still have a which is due to take event were just completed with programme will be created with chance to enjoy nature thriving Wplace from Friday, June 25 a full programme available on a more engaging and interactive and to encourage more young to Sunday, July 4, has had to the website when the pandem- online experience. Almost all people to pay attention to their move online. West Cork Music ic’s third wave struck. Once it the musicians engaged for the local environment. We would (WCM) has said it is devastated became clear that the uncer- original programme will present like to see how local Irish wild- to have to make such a decision tainty around restrictions would at least one filmed concert from life is represented in children’s this year. not be resolved, the team had to venues around Europe and the art and that is why we decided Since last summer the team accept that a live festival, with USA. on the theme” says Fabiola Viei- at WCM have been making a live audience, would not be The programme for the 2021 ra, IWT administrative assistant. According to the Irish Wildlife every effort to produce a live possible. After more than a year Virtual West Cork Cham- Trust Co-ordinator, Kieran festival for 2021 – upending the listening to music through the ber Music Festival will be Flood, “Young people have a normal timetable by scheduling veil of a computer screen, the announced over the coming great interest in nature. With the 130 concerts and recitals, the 2021 festival was intended as a month. Keep an eye on www. current lockdown, our young largest ever programme. The celebration of live music and to westcorkmusic.ie and West people will not be traveling idea was simple – to enable cancel it is a blow to everyone Cork Music’s social media as far to explore wildlife. We audiences to experience a involved. channels for further updates. hope this art competition will full festival despite the strict The WCM team is now fo- inspire children to explore nature limitations imposed by social cused on curating a Virtual Fes- April 2 – April 29, 2021 49 people Home & Garden Check your home insurance reflects rise in costs of rebuilding in Cork he latest Guide to you’re rebuilding a house – or rebuilds.” for homeowners to put aside House Rebuilding Costs 25 per cent or more of it – the TJ Cronin, who is Vice Presi- ten minutes, to check our easy published by the Society ‘envelope’ or surface area of the dent of the SCSI warned Cork to use rebuild calculator and to Tof Chartered Surveyors Ireland home has to be bought up to a homeowners they may well ensure the reinstatement costs (SCSI) shows that national B2 BER rating. The envelope face pro rata increases on their required on their home insur- average re-build costs have is the total surface area of the home insurance premiums due ance premiums are adequate increased by an average of house, which leaks heat, so it to the rise in rebuild costs and and fully in line with current 7.3 per cent over the past 18 includes external walls, win- said it was really important that figures with regard to house months. The average increase in dows, doors, the ground floor householders check they have type and location.” Cork across all house types was and roof or ceiling. Replacing adequate insurance. “It’s also important that 6.5 per cent. heat pumps, temperature control “The reality of the situation homeowners reassess their Peter McCarthy, Chair of the systems, heat recovery systems is that if the rebuild cost of your cover to take account of any Southern Region of the SCSI, all adds mechanical, electri- home is €280K and you only changes such as home office said the main reason for the cost cal and plumbing costs to the have it insured for €210K, in extensions or garden offices. increases was compliance with rebuild process.” the event of a catastrophic event These have become increasing- new Nearly Zero Energy Build- “In addition, Brexit has led such as a fire, you will be facing ly popular with more people a valuation and rebuilding assessment go to www.scsi. ing (NZEB) standards, as well to supply issues with building a shortfall of €70K. However, now working from home, but costs. A market valuation is the ie and search for a valuer or as a rise in the cost of building materials and increased the what a lot of homeowners don’t they need to be included in expected amount another person auctioneer/agent using our ‘Find materials. cost of a range of products, realise is that if in that situation the house insurance. While would pay for your property if it an Expert’ search facility. “We fully support the including insulation and timber there was a partial loss, which premiums may rise as a result of was placed on the open market. A House Rebuilding Cal- introduction of NZEB standards products, mesh, structural steel, cost €80K to repair, the insured these rebuilding cost increases, The rebuilding costs are as- culator and the 2021 Guide and recognise the key role they plasterboard and metal studs, party would only receive €60K I would advise consumers to sociated with the cost of build- to House Rebuilding Costs will play in helping to reduce to mention just a few. The con- and face a shortfall of €20K. shop around to ensure they ing or replacing the dwelling. is available free of charge at CO2 emissions and reducing struction industry has adapted This is because the homeowner are getting the best value” Mr The SCSI says these figures can www.scsi.ie/consumer/build/ energy costs over the long well to working safely in the era in question has only insured Cronin said. be very different so it’s import- house-rebuild-calculator/ term. However, from a building of Covid and the new protocols their property to three quarters The SCSI said that it’s very ant that the SCSI calculator is perspective, they do come with have not led to significant cost of its rebuilding cost.” important that homeowners un- not used for valuation purposes. an upfront cost. For example, if increases for one off residential “That is why it is important derstand the difference between If you require a market value

Consumer gardening spend Riai architects launch annual charity reached highest-ever level in 2020 ord Bia research released in March shows that consumer initiative for Simon Community spend on gardening reached its highest-ever level at €1.2bn in 2020, an increase of more than half compared with 2018. The IAI Simon Open Door mon Open Door is the perfect and architects through the RIAI Bsurge was driven by record levels of spend on garden products and is back and ready to opportunity for homeowners to Simon Open Door campaign outdoor plants. However, all products measured recorded double digit make a virtual impact get professional advice from a will help Simon Communi- growth and total market spend is 14 per cent higher than the previous Ron your real-world living Registered Architect on how to ties to continue to respond record high reported in 2007/08. space. Ireland’s architects are achieve a more flexible home to homelessness during this Carol Marks, Horticulture Sector Manager, Bord Bia said, “2020 ready to offer professional for the times we live in. Over COVID crisis, ensuring the was an extraordinary year for gardening activity due to Covid 19, advice on your home improve- the last twelve months, we safety of our clients and that amplified by a particularly warm and sunny spring. It is a hugely ments and it is all in aid of the have spent more time than ever we can continue the work to positive story that, in spite of a period of closure last year, the cate- Simon Communities. The RIAI in our homes. From working support people into a home of gory has managed to achieve record growth. The garden became the and the Simon Communities to working out, our homes are their own.” focus of much of our attention during lockdown, and with the longer are calling on members of the being used in so many different Registered Architect and term prospect of remote working, consumers began to invest in their public to support the annual ways. Now is the time for plan- RIAI Simon Open Door gardens, undertaking projects which heretofore were either on the RIAI Simon Open Door cam- ning, this is a unique opportuni- Ambassador, Dermot Bannon, long finger, or deemed low priority. Additionally, the positive sense paign. Now in its 17th year, ty not to be missed. Registered MRIAI, said: “Lockdown has of wellbeing along with the recognition that our gardens, balconies and outdoor spaces were a safe place for gatherings, made the garden the campaign will run from Architects are standing by in taught us all the value of our an even more important part of life during 2020.” Tuesday, 4th May to Friday, every county to donate their homes but also highlighted the The research highlighted a number of key consumer gardening 14th May. time and support the Simon issues within them. We have behaviours as a result of societal changes brought about by Covid-19. In return for a €95 donation, Communities. The RIAI and its all struggled with space and These included: homeowners can receive an members are proud to partner functionality over the last 12 • Reimagining outdoor spaces: The biggest uplift in spend in hour-long consultation with with the charity across Ireland months. Our homes have be- 2020 (up 75 per cent vs 2018) was on garden products such as BBQ an RIAI-registered architect to support its vital services at come not only the place we live equipment, garden structures (such as sheds, trellising, and pergolas), to discuss building, rebuilding this time.” but the place we work, teach, garden accessories and other hard landscaping products as consumers or renovating their homes. All Jennifer Kitson, National exercise, entertain ourselves rushed to build and re-develop new outdoor spaces. consultations take place online Partnerships Manager for and get some head space. The • Investing in the ‘outdoor room’: Spend on outdoor and flower- and all funds raised go directly Simon Communities said: “The RIAI Simon Open Door Event ing plants increased by 51 per cent as people invested in making their the RIAI Simon Open Door to the Simon Communities to understanding that ‘home’ is connects homeowners and outdoor space as attractive as indoors. Consumers focused on longer campaign in 2020 enabled the support their work in tackling the foundation of our lives is Registered Architects up and term investments in shrubs and herbaceous perennials in order to add Simon Communities to provide homelessness. more pronounced than ever as down the country. Over the colour and depth to their gardens. essential resources to respond Registration for the event we continue to face the chal- years people have got so much • Growing your own: Spend on herbs, fruit and vegetables for to COVID19, most critically by is now open and people are lenges of COVID-19 in 2021. from the consultations, getting growing at home recorded its highest level since measurement began helping to fund supplies of PPE encouraged to book a consul- Homelessness, already a deeply advice on everything from 20 years ago, as consumers became more concerned about sustain- and to address the increased de- tation with a RIAI-registered traumatic and isolating experi- storage solutions to building a ability, the environment and health as a result of Covid 19. Planting mand for Simon Communities architect in their local area by ence, has only been heightened new house. All money raised food was also a positive way to engage young children for many services across the country. visiting www.simonopendoor. by the pandemic. Shockingly, goes to the Simon Communi- parents, in the same way cooking from scratch and baking became RIAI Registered Architects ie. in the midst of this health crisis ties to support them in tackling enjoyable ways to pass the time. can pledge to donate an hour Garden maintenance and makeovers: Commenting on this year’s the number of single home- homelessness. Consultations • Spend on garden mainte- of their time by signing up nance rose by 57 per cent compared with 2018, as consumers tackled campaign, Ciaran O’Connor, less adults increased 7%. The are limited, so don’t miss out.” at www.simonopendoor.ie/ important maintenance jobs, which had previously been put on the RIAI President said: “RIAI Si- generous support of the public The support received from architects. long finger. 50 April 2 – April 29, 2021 people Home & Garden Gardening in April pril is an exciting Hanging Baskets/Window Vegetable Garden seed per pot or you can sow two month in the garden, Boxes Sow tomatoes for outdoor plant- seeds per pot – removing the which suddenly takes If space allows undercover you ing now under cover. Flavour, weakest seedling and retaining Aon a tapestry of fresh green. can plant up hanging bas- yield and blight resistance the strongest seedling. There is also great colour with kets,window boxes and troughs. are some of the key factors in dramatic flowering trees and This will give your contain- choosing tomato varieties. Try Seed Potatoes shrubs in bloom: rhododen- ers a headstart for the summer, the delicious ‘Tumbling Tom’, Maincrop seed potatoes need drons, azaleas and camellias allowing the roots to become es- which is a delicious, sweet to be planted now to get a will be providing splendid tablished before placing outside cherry variety. Sow the seed in decent crop. Plant in trenches colour and later in the month, for summer display. Use fresh, trays or small pots containing 60cm (2 ft) apart to the depth tulips should also be in full clean compost when planting up fresh, clean compost. Water of the spade, heaping the soil bloom. GARDENING your containers and feed weekly the compost thoroughly before to one side. Put some compost Do keep up to date with with an organic, seaweed based sowing using a watering can or well-rotten manure in the weeding and deadheading, as John Hosford liquid fertiliser. Check that all with a fine rose. Allow to drain trench, spacing the tubers about it is important not to let weeds The Weekend Garden chains and brackets are in good off for a few hours before sow- 38cm apart. Sprinkle organic race ahead of you at this time condition and replace any that ing. Place in a propagator at 22 fertiliser along the row before of the year. Don’t allow them Centre have expired their useful life. degrees celcius and cover with a filling in and cover the tubers to go to seed and perpetuate a sheet of glass or polythene and with soil,leaving it slightly decade of weeds. Some weed Rockery/Alpine bowls/sinks newspaper. Remove the cover mounded up. seeds with their light, fluffy Choose some colourful alpines immediately once the seeds Carrots may be sown this from a feed this month. Choose seeds are dispersed widely with for your rockery/banks. It is emerge. month. Protect against carrot a calm, dry day for application, wind. Be especially careful of hard to beat the display of fly with enviromesh. Carrots preferably when rain is forecast. willow herb and thistle, as if may be sown in succession until Sow new lawns and repair these are allowed go to seed you mid-July. bare patches. will have a legacy of several Divide bamboos and water- generations of persistent weeds. Successional Sowing lilies. Hoeing early in the day on a Continue successional sowing Protect roses against black- warm, dry day is recommended. of lettuce, radish, beetroot, peas, spot and mildew. broad beans, salad onions and Give grey-leaved shrubs a Jobs for the month turnips and salad leaves. trim to keep them bushy. Protect fruit blossom against Divide perennials and stake frost. Tie in climbing and ram- Fruit Garden tall growing varieties. bling roses. Sow hardy annuals Early-flowering fruits may need Protect emerging perenni- such as calendula, escholtzia, some protection from frost als against slugs, especially nigella, night-scented and Vir- by covering with hessian, old alstromerias, delphiniums, ginian stock. sheets or blankets, sacking or lupins, helenium and rudbeckia. Feed citrus plants with a sum- frost protection fleece. Uncover Cut down any dead growth mer feed and continue until late immediately in the morning of perennials if you have not October. to facilitate insect pollination. already. Increase watering for Ventilate protected strawberries Plant a succession of gladioli houseplants and indoor plants, on sunny days. Finish planting in a sunny,well-drained site to using lukewarm water. Shrubs, of new strawberry plants by keep a continuous supply of perennials and roses will benefit cascading, colourful aubretia, Sow celery and celeriac for mid-April. Tuck straw under very attractive cut flowers for arabis, dianthus, saxifragas and planting outdoors in June. Sow strawberries to protect the fruits the house and special occasions. helianthemums (rock roses). as explained for the tomatoes. from rotting and soil. They will also appreciate a Get the area 100 per cent clear Sow marrows, courgettes, Hand pollinate wall-trained sheltered site. of weeds prior to commence cucumbers, pumpkins, peach and nectarine flowers Get dahlias, canna and bego- planting. Strong, persistent squashes, melons, sweetcorn, using an artist’s brush. nias off to a good start by plac- perennial weeds can prove too French runner and climbing Spray at midday with a ing them indoors in a tray or pot competitive for newly planted beans under cover at the end of fine mist to help setting in dry with moistened compost. The alpines and rockery plants. Grit April. It is a good idea to sow conditions. aim then is to plant outdoors or decorative stone will provide into a biodegradable pot about into their flowering quarters an attractive finish to your 10cm in diameter. All should be Lawn Care when all risk of frost is over at display and will suppress weeds planted outdoors when risk of Use an organic lawn feed at the the end of May. They should be and help drainage. frost is over at the end of May. end of April. well hardened-off/acclimatised Generally these are sown one before planting out. Grow It Forward this Spring new initiative enabling half a million people across Ireland to enjoy the wide range of benefits that come from growing food at home has been launched by GIY – Grow It Yourself, Ain partnership with Healthy Ireland and Libraries Ireland. The campaign will be supported by 25 library branches in Cork County, as part of the Government’s Keep Well programme. Grow It Forward is designed to help the nation eat well by inspiring and supporting people to grow some of their own food at home while connecting with friends and family to join them. Cork County Council’s Library Service will distribute over 800 seed packs countywide. Each food growing pack includes seeds for beetroot, carrots, salad leaves, peas and tomatoes; a guide to help grow them and a postcard and gift tags to help share them. Those who sign up will also receive regular e-mails with growing support, video clips and ideas for how to ‘grow it forward’ by passing on experience with ten people, enabling half a million people across seeds, seedlings or produce in accordance with social distancing Ireland to enjoy the wide range of benefits that come from growing guidelines. food at home. The Grow It Forward initiative will see 50,000 free food growing Contact your local Cork County library while packs last. See kits given away, with participants asked to use the kits to share the www.corkcoco.ie for contact information. April 2 – April 29, 2021 51 people Home & Garden

Blossom time DEELISH GARDEN CENTRE head fritillary. Over the last at an age where I have to try one that is in the form of a large We’re on the banks of the Ilen, 1 mile west of SKIBBEREEN few years I have planted some to pace myself a little, and one poster, decorative enough to pin on the old Baltimore road. Fully signposted off the N71. each autumn in grass alongside sunny day when I lose track of up on the kitchen wall, which Open Mon to Sat 10am - 5pm a shaded path and they are so time and the dog has to come so far has already saved me Sun & Bank Holidays 2pm-5pm. exotic at this time of year. The and find me to remind me it’s hours as I haven’t had to search Phone: (028 21374) Q E flowers are mostly dark purple dinner time, can lead to a day or for the book most days which with an almost chequered even two of recovery. But tim- was my normal way of doing pattern, though occasionally a ing is everything with jobs such things. Whether you believe Extra large specimen white variety pops up. These as pricking out and potting on in the efficacy of planting by A COTTAGE nectar rich flowers provide early tomatoes, so I try to prioritise moon cycles or not, it certainly palms and tree ferns GARDEN PROJECT sustenance for bumblebees by pricking at least a couple of puts some structure into sowing and are easy to grow in grass trays of salad or annual flowers plans. I know for instance that Jean Perry or woodland edges. They are each day, and gradually work- today, as I write, is a fruit day just arrived! relatively inexpensive and the ing through the 25 varieties of and I could sow peas, beans or bulbs are available from most tomatoes we grow. There is also cucumbers and so on; and by Jean Perry of Glebe Gardens specialist bulb suppliers in the keeping up with the sowing the weekend it will be a root will share the ongoing autumn. I have been planting of vegetable seeds, it pays to day, ideal for planting potatoes, successes and failures of some each autumn for the last be organised, a trait I am not parsnips or any other root crop. growing a small cottage garden three years and they seem to generally known for. My loved You could explore the subject Massive using no-dig and organic return reliably each year. ones will tell you that this is an further, for instance whether it’s Thousands of selection of principles to see just how Spring is my favourite understatement. My greatest a waxing or waning moon, but outdoor pots, much food she can get out of season, bringing daily changes aid in organising my sowing I am definitely not qualified to plants, trees & statues & garden such a plot. Join her on this to the garden, but the workload plan is a planting by the moon go into more detail. I just know journey… can also be overwhelming. I am calendar. This year I have found it works for me and I follow the shrubs arriving ornaments instructions. every week. Spring is also blossom time ’m waking up earlier and and the first thing to blossom in earlier these days, which my garden was a wild cherry, Vegetable seeds and plants is just as well, as there is prunus ‘Woodfield Cluster’. I Just in.... First of the Summer bedding & Iso much to do in the garden in cherish this plant for its tenacity spring. Most mornings it is a joy as well as its really pretty white a huge selection of tools & house plants! to be up and outside with the blossom. I can’t call it a tree, only distraction being birdsong. as it was inadvertently pruned, No traffic noise or phones when only a couple of years ringing, just mooching about, old. It wasn’t done by me; least checking the propagator to see said soonest mended. Then it if anything has germinated was caught by the strimmer; I overnight, or if we’ve had an- don’t use the strimmer either. It other overnight visit from mice is now more or less a shrub, but or slugs. In the outside garden quite beautiful in full blossom there is lots to see already, and I saw my first bumblebee lots of narcissus, tulips and of the season happily feasting my favourites at the moment inside one of its flowers. Long fritillaria meleagris or snake- may it survive! April is all about potting on Mags Riordan of Bum- to tease seedlings apart and seedlings apart. Always hold by If you’re growing on, on a in under protection by night. encouraging you to join in and blebee Farm is guiding reduces the risk of damaging the a seed leaf, being very careful sunny windowsill, be sure to This process needs to be done submit your findings to www. us through the planning, fragile roots. not to damage the fragile stem. turn trays every few days, other- for about two weeks. Knowing biodiversityireland.ie. We will planting and caring of a Fill your module trays with Use a dibber, pencil or your wise plants will stretch reaching your last frost date will deter- also be chatting with garden compost, level off and tap down finger to make a hole to drop for light. At this stage of devel- mine when you will be planting designer Leoine Cornelius bed for cut flowers. By the by tapping the container on the the seedling in, making sure it’s opment light and moisture are out into their final position. about designing a border with time summer arrives the bed work surface; watering before- planted deep enough that the critical. Keep seedlings moist Our next Instagram live is pollinator friendly plants. Any should boast an abundance hand is helpful – this also helps seed leaf is flush or if stretched but never waterlogged. Sunday, April 18 where we questions can be submitted on of pollinator-friendly flowers settle compost and eliminate below the compost level. Gently As they develop and roots will be going through potting Saturday, April 17 and we will ready for cutting and enjoy- air pockets. I gently remove firm compost around the stem become visible at the bottom on, caring for your new plants answer these on Sunday. ing. This month she focuses the cell from my module tray being careful not to compact of the container, they can be and hardening off. As the Bee Kind on potting your seedling on. containing my seedlings and thus allowing free movement of hardened off by placing outside insect timed count kicks off in again, very gently, tease the fine root hairs. by day, but bring them back April, we will be doing this and ith the equinox be- hind us growth will really begin to take Woff. Seeds germinate and devel- op true leaves at different rates, so potting on will happen over the course of the month, which is perfectly natural. The key is to move them on before they get leggy and start competing with each other: I multi-sow but not too thickly with the smaller seeds. Water seedlings at least 15 minutes beforehand and allow excess water to drain away. This helps by making it easier 52 April 2 – April 29, 2021 Wardrobe storage solutions for your room before you will determine the functional are perfect if your house leans decide on a wardrobe colour layout of the interior of your towards being retro-inspired. – neutral is a good choice for wardrobe – you should en- Inexpensive yet classic they closets normally but if you sure that there is a minimum are a good option if you do have a really bright space of 1100mm hanging space for not want to invest too much. Do you want then you afford to be bold. A shirts with a hang space for The only drawback is they do few (lighter) colour options shorter tops below. occupy more space than fitted CLEANER HEALTHIER if you are painting your 6. If there is limited space avail- or wall-mounted...but a plus is wardrobes are Skimming able, you could always con- that you can move them around Stone or French Grey from sider adding external drawer as necessary. TAP WATER Farrow and Ball. I also love units, as this will maximise If you like a bohemian look De Nimes from Farrow and your internal hanging and try scouring antique stores and INTERIORS Ball – this has a deep teal/ shelf space. secondhand shops for intriguing blue tone in it. Remember dressers and armoires that tell 7. For those who have a big Maura Mackey when picking a wardrobe co- their own story. 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Paul Lordan is a sports and history enthusiast, and he he defeated his opponent within An experienced matman, Gun- is delighted to combine his three minutes, establishing derson was the Scandinavian passions in his column. Paul himself as a contender within and United States champion. It is well placed to comment on Britain’s wrestling community. took Con all of 13 minutes to sport as a former hurler and This win was followed up with pin the Norwegian in the first footballer with Shamrocks. He three successive wins against bout, before he eased to victory is also a former Munster Senior experienced, high ranking in the decisive second bout and League soccer player and opponents. In 1907, the Hull became the first Irishman to manager with Avondale United, Amateur Wrestling Club took win an Olympic gold medal in Casement Celtic, Garryduff and the decision to enter Con into wrestling. ‘It was conceded to the beginning, and finally were would elude O’Kelly Junior, loud in their declarations that Passage AFC. Paul’s grá for all the British Amateur Wrestling Con received his gold medal be the worst wrestling who later became a priest things West Cork results from Heavyweight Championship, from Queen Alexandra, who neither of the contestants was an and passed away in 1968 in the fact that he is descended and he rewarded their faith also presented him with a green bout that has been held Irishman’. Clearly unperturbed Stockport. from a family of farmers in the by delivering the club’s first oak leaf badge in recognition in this city, and the by his New York experience, The fact that we have won a Con would emigrate to the Coolmountain area. national title. of his great feat. After the Irishmen, of whom mere nine Olympic gold medals As the British Amateur Wres- conclusion of the games, he United States after retiring from since the foundation of the state tling Heavyweight champion, returned to his adopted city there were many in the active competition in the early proves that an Olympic gold 1920s. He later spent some time eorge Cornelius ‘Con’ Con O’Kelly was rewarded of Hull amidst a great deal of house, hissed from the medal is a rare feat for an Irish on the family farm in Gloun, be- O’Kelly was born in with a place on the British fanfare. He was greeted by the athlete. Although his medal was beginning, and finally fore returning to Kingston Upon Gloun, near Dunman- Olympic team for the 1908 Chief of Police Major Malcolm, won whilst representing Great were loud in their dec- Hull where he died in 1947. Gway in 1886. Like many young Olympic Games in London. the Chief of Worship Street Britain, this observer feels that Sporting excellence clearly men from Dunmanway and its However, his preparation for the Fire Station, and a cheering larations that neither of such a technicality should have ran in the family, as O’Kelly’s surrounding areas at the time, games was severely disrupted crowd of over 12,000 people. no bearing on our willingness to the contestants was an son, George Cornelius ‘Con’ Con O’Kelly was forced to in dramatic fashion by a work He was chaired aloft by several tell the story of Con O’Kelly of O’Kelly Junior would represent venture abroad to gain employ- place injury, incurred when a of his fire station colleagues, Irishman’. Gloun. He is rightly regarded as Britain as a heavyweight boxer ment. He settled into a thriving wall collapsed on him as he and placed upon a patriotically The New York Times an Irish Olympic hero! at the 1924 Olympics. A medal Irish immigrant community in was fighting a fire at Soulsby’s decorated, horse drawn fire Kingston Upon Hull, England. sawmill in Hull in March, 1908. engine, on which he toured the Con lodged with the Larvin Thankfully, O’Kelly recovered city. Con continued to wrestle ended in a double disqualifi- family in the Old Town area, quickly from a badly bruised sporadically after his Olympic cation for both men. The New and later went on to marry back and shoulder and many victory. This included a profes- York Times report on the bout their daughter Sabina. O’Kelly facial lacerations and managed sional bout where he squared from November 23, 1909 was joined the Kingston Upon Hull to regain his fitness before the up against Galway native Pat particularly damning. It stated City Police in 1902 and became commencement of the games. Connolly in Grand Central that ‘It was conceded to be the PC249. He settled in to a role Con defeated the American Lee Palace, New York in 1909, worst wrestling bout that has with the local fire department, Talbot, and Englishman Harry which made headlines for all of been held in this city, and the which at the time functioned Foskett before facing fellow the wrong reasons. The match Irishmen, of whom there were as an arm of the local police Munster man, Edmond Barrett. degenerated in to a fistfight, and many in the house, hissed from force. Whilst settling in on Barrett hailed from Ballyduff, Humberside, Con’s colleagues near Listowel in County Kerry. introduced him to wrestling via He was something of a sporting his local club, the Hull Amateur all-rounder, and also competed Wrestling Club. in the shot, javelin, discus, and Con O’Kelly’s natural tug of war competitions in the Correction wrestling ability was quickly 1908 Olympic programme noticed by the club instructors and achieved a gold medal in and he was promptly entered the latter. He also famously in to a series of local competi- helped London to a 1-5 to 0-4 tions. He stood at an imposing victory over Cork in the 1901 six foot three inches in height, All Ireland Hurling Final. and weighed in at 220 pounds. Although defeated by O’Kelly, Contemporary descriptions indi- he went on to claim the bronze cate that O’Kelly’s ample frame medal, and would compete on was reinforced with a plentiful the British Olympic wrestling supply of lean muscle. He was team again in the 1912 games immediately successful, and in Stockholm. His victory over after a short period of intensive Barrett meant that Con faced training, Con put his name Jacob Gunderson of Norway In last month’s edition we incorrectly identified the player down to take on the Northern in the final. Although 11 years to the right of Eamonn Young as Tadhgo Crowley. It is in Counties champion in Liver- O’Kelly’s senior, it was report- fact Cork and Clonakilty player Fachtna O’Donovan. Many pool. Although still a relative ed that he had a major physical thanks to Thomas Connolly who played with both men and novice in terms of experience, advantage over the Corkman. got in touch with the correction. 54 April 2 – April 29, 2021 people Sport Fairyhouse Easter Festival Preview on Paddy Power Media’s podcast ‘From The Horse’s Mouth’ n this week’s absorbing Walsh, the former top pilot is weekend. top-class races on the Sunday Fairyhouse Easter Festival joined by Paddy Power trader This week’s episode, as and one of Saturday’s contests Preview on Paddy Power and up-and-coming media star usual brilliantly hosted by and to listen to the whole of IMedia’s podcast ‘From The Frank Hickey in a show that Patrick Kennelly and record- this week’s hugely-entertaining Horse’s Mouth’ starring Paddy looks forward to three days ed on Tuesday, covers Ruby show: Power ambassador and ITV of superb Jumping action at and Frank’s verdicts on the Head to: podfollow.com/ and Racing TV pundit Ruby the Meath venue this coming Irish Grand National, the two horsesmouth Inland Fisheries Ireland launches Go Fishing Week or the first time ever Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI) launches ing Go Fishing Week 2021.” a virtual Go Fishing Week 2021, a national celebration of Go Fishing Week 2021 events will take place online and are free fishing with a programme of online events taking place. Run- to join, but registration may be required. A sample of the Go Fish- Fning from Sunday, April 25 to Monday, May 3, Go Fishing Week ing Week 2021 events taking place and available to join online are: provides an opportunity to connect with people virtually across the • Specimen Fish – Join the Irish Specimen Fish Committee in a country to encourage them to try fishing by making information webinar to learn all about specimen fish and the records of Irish accessible to all. The programme of events will spread awareness specimen fish. The webinar will take place on Sunday, April 25. of a series of themes during the course of the week including sus- • Free a Flounder – Watch a video to show you how to safely tainability, protecting habitats and wellbeing benefits. remove a hook from a flounder and release it back into the Francis O’Donnell, CEO of Inland Fisheries Ireland said: water. “This year Go Fishing Week aims to encourage people to learn • Safety on the water – Join a webinar on all things more about angling while also having important conversations around how to be safe around water especially as around sustainable fishing, climate change and the cultural we come into the peak angling season and raise significance of our inland waters here in Ireland. We awareness of safety among all the new anglers we are delighted this year to be able to bring our events have met recently. into a virtual capacity and make them accessible to To learn more about what is happening and how you everyone by doing so. From webinars, podcasts and can get involved, visit www.fisheriesireland.ie/gofishin- videos to virtual competitions we hope that people gweek. Also details will be posted in the run up to the week of all ages will get involved and join us in celebrat- on Inland Fisheries Ireland Facebook page: and Twitter.

people Motoring Nissan Qashqai flexes its muscles with hybrid and electric versions he Nissan Qashqai has big attraction this time is that The 12V mild hybrid system been one of the most the new Qashqai for the first available on new Qashqai is a popular crossover cars time will offer hybrid and elec- more affordable hybrid technol- Tin Ireland since it was launched tric versions. I suppose that was ogy that provides torque assist, here 13 years ago. That’s not an obvious addition, as Nissan extended idle stop, quick restart just PR speak, the company have been pushing their electric and coasting stop with improve- have figures to prove it, as Leaf for a few years now. ments to both fuel economy and 50,000 Irish motorists drive a Nissan say that the all-new CO2 output. It’s mated to the Qashqai and Nissan has sold Qashqai is a key part of the refined 1.3 Dig-T petrol engine over three million units of company’s strategy to achieve that was introduced to Qashqai the car in Europe since it was 50 per cent electrified sales in in 2018. CAR launched. Europe by 2024. Similar to the The 1.3 petrol motor will be Recently Nissan launched Leaf, the new Qashqai e-power offered with two power outputs, REVIEWS the third generation of the car benefits from the ‘one-pedal’ 138hp and 156hp, with either a that became known as their driving experience called e-Ped- 6-speed manual transmission, or Sean Creedon ‘cash-cow.’ The new version is al. Drivers can start, accelerate new Xtronic gearbox. Max en- slightly bulkier looking, but the and decelerate using only the gine power arrives at 5500rpm, accelerator pedal. I tried the with maximum available torque e-Pedal in the Leaf and it take a of 270Nm at a convenient little time to get used to it. 1750rpm on 156hp Xtronic and The third generation is high power MT variants. definitely more muscular, sharp The Qashqai also offers colour options and advanced and modern. On the exterior, an advanced infotainment screen within the driver’s line technology convenience the Qashqai’s enhanced body system with a broad portfolio of vision. Home-to-Car features features. stance is more purposeful, with of connected devices includ- are compatible with Google Seamus Morgan, M.D. prominent shoulder lines, an ex- ing effortless integration of Assistant and Amazon Alexa Nissan Ireland said: “The new tended wheelbase and imposing smartphones, in-car Wi-Fi for devices. Qashqai combines the best of 20-inch alloy wheels introduced up to seven devices and Nissan Pricing will be announced Nissan’s pioneering crossover to Qashqai for the first time. Connect Services, a dedicated this summer. Further informa- and EV expertise. It allows The new version will not only app with which to interact with tion and details about Qashqai new and existing Qashqai be available with a 1.3 DiG-T and monitor the vehicle. are available by contacting drivers to experience hybrid and petrol engine equipped with Inside an innovative new your local Nissan dealer or by electric driving without range mild hybrid technology, but it 10.8-inch heads up-display visiting www.nissan.ie. or charging concerns in an also represents the European display (HUD) provides the The first customers who unmistakably stylish crossover debut of e-power, Nissan’s biggest-in-segment image order are being offered a special that continues to deliver every- innovative and award winning size. Key navigation, driver launch version called the Pre- thing they would expect from a powertrain, that draws technolo- assistance and road information miere Edition, which will offer family car.’’ gies from the Leaf. are projected onto the wind- an extended palette of two-tone