Shopkindly That Has Been Missed, Notify the Business and Give Them the Opportunity to Remedy It Rather Than Posting on Social Media

Remote Working West Cork Enjoy the work, enjoy the lifestyle 20 pages of interviews, tips and advice on everything from tech to health when working from home. www.westcorkpeople.ie & www.westcorkfridayad.ie September 4 – October 1, 2020, Vol XVI, Edition 217 FREE

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Twelve-year old Jonah Bates visiting Hairy Henry Care Farm in Ballylickey, which offers therapeutic and educational activities to children and adults with additional needs. Hairy Henry Farm is appealing to the West Cork public to support its Gofundme campaign to raise funds for a barn. See inside for more details.

*Offer valid until the end of August. *OfferCLARKE Valid BROS until LTD the end of September Internationally renowned artist donating Main PeugeotT&C Dealer, applies. Clonakilty Road, Bandon, Co. Cork. Tel: 023-8841923 HEALTH & proceeds of art sale to CUH Charity and Web: CLARKEwww.clarkebrosgroup.ie BROS LIFESTYLE (BANDON) LTD pages 42-47 West Cork Rapid Response Unit Main Peugeot Dealers est Cork based, internationally renowned of life and the vulnerability that comes with living in Clonakilty Road, Australian artist, John Kelly, spent 45 a rural environment. In August 2018, I collapsed and Bandon days in hospital and many more months would have died if it hadn’t been for the combined Win and out, two years ago. That he is alive today response of my wonderful family and local friends, Co. Cork is thanks to the astonishing professionalism of the the medical ‘rapid responders’, the ambulance ser- West Cork First Responders Unit and Cork Univer- vice, and extraordinary care offered by medics and 023-8841923 sity Hospital (CUH). To show his gratitude, John staff at Cork University Hospital. As a gesture of my www.clarkebrosgroup.ie is donating the proceeds from the sale of one of his appreciation, this painting is going to be auctioned paintings, ‘Castlehaven’, which is being auctioned through Sotheby’s Ireland in September this year next month, by Sotheby’s, (Ireland). with all proceeds going to the CUH Charity and West John says “I ask that you take a moment to look Cork Rapid Response Unit.” at this painting representing the magnificent view No 56 in the Catalogue, Castlehaven by John Kel- from Ceim Hill looking over Castlehaven Harbour ly will be included in the Sotheby’s auction, Irish Art, between Reen Peninsula and Castletownsend. Hav- including works from the collection of Sir Michael ing lived for 17 years in this beautiful, if somewhat Smurfit on September 9. GARDENING remote, part of the world as a healthy and robust To view the painting go to www.sothebys.com Contact Ian Carey pages 50-51 person I became acutely aware of both the fragility

It’s easy to be kind as we get used to our new way of shopping and using public spaces – being mindful of giving each other enough space or wearing a mask if we can’t... and of course sharing a smile and a ‘thank you’. Everybody is working hard to meet the new guidelines but if you see something #shopkindly that has been missed, notify the business and give them the opportunity to remedy it rather than posting on social media. 2 September 4 – October 1, 2020 Bantry doctor shares his experience as a critically ill patient with Covid-19

Dr. Owen O’Flynn is a 23-year-old trainee doctor from Bantry who spent time at the ICU in Cork University Hospital as a critically ill patient with Covid-19. Dr O’Flynn, will share his experience at the Covid-19 National COVID Research and Scientific Meeting on September 5, which will be attended by medical professionals working in intensive care throughout the country, who will discuss the management of critically ill patients with Covid-19. Owen, who is currently working in Universi- ty Hospital Kerry as a first year SHO on the GP South West training scheme, speaks to West Cork People ahead of the event about his illness and L-R: Emma O’Sullivan, Courtmacsherry, who works in Medical Administration in CUH and also spent a prolonged stay treatment in CUH ICU as a patient with Covid-19, Dr. Owen O’Flynn from Bantry, a Trainee Doctor who spent time in CUH ICU as a patient with Covid-19, Dr Corinna Sadlier, Consultant in Infectious Diseases at Cork University Hospital and Dr. Ivan Hayes from Clonakilty, Consultant Intensivist and Critical Care Director at CUH, launch the National COVID Research rom a farming back- experienced many of the Irish and Scientific Meeting, a virtual conference for medical professionals and the public on the management of critically ill ground, Owen is the hospitals including University patients with Covid 19. Pic: Gerard McCarthy middle child in a family Hospital Waterford, South Tipp Fof seven children. After training General Hospital, SIVUH, in undergraduate medicine for Mercy University Hospital work in Mission Hospital Lub- Africa. During his intern year General Hospital. his hand to, most notably foot- five years in University College and CUH. He was also lucky we with Surgeon Noonan Soci- after graduating, he spent nine An all-rounder when it ball and hurling with Bantry Cork, he graduated in May enough to be given the oppor- ety who helps provide medical months working in CUH and comes to sports, there aren’t Blues, as well as playing rugby 2019. During his time there, he tunity to travel to Zambia and equipment to many countries in three months working in Bantry many that Owen hasn’t thrown Continued on next page... CNM Training Successful Practitioners CHANGE CAREER • Our well known Super Hydrangea Train to become a… are again available in many colours and varieties.  Nutritional Therapist • This is a good time to plant your  own Fruit Trees and Bushes (For Herbalist Attend a FREE large  Online Event or small gardens) – Apples laden Acupuncturist with fruit, Crab Apples, yellow and  red, ideal for small gardens. Come Homeopath and explore our Fruit section.  Health Coach • Bright Berries: Holly J.C. Van Tol,  Rosa Rugosa hips, Pyracantha, Natural Chef Skimmia.

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...Cont’d from previous page with UCC J2 Bulldogs. His my risk of getting a clot in my all they needed to flatten the most recent interest is hiking, lungs or a stroke, both of which curve in the first instance. “I having climbed Carrauntoohil have an increased risk in Covid know that the government has this time last year and Kiliman- infection,” says Owen. “Most had to make some very difficult jaro three years ago. importantly, I was on high flow choices in the past seven The very fit and active doctor humidified oxygen up to 60 months and I’m sure there will doesn’t know how he contract- litres/min at 60 per cent, and be even tougher ones to be ed the virus and explains how a I received inotropic support made in the coming months.” post viral syndrome resulted in in order to keep my blood Owen would like to encour- his hospitalisation. pressure stable, as a result of age people to continue to social my poor heart function. I would distance and keep their contacts like to thank all involved in my down to as minimum as care both while I was in and possible. “I would also like to “During what we think out of the hospital, as I did feel thank both the local people of was the actual viral very included in my care and West Cork and nationwide who infection back in late every decision that was made.” prayed for me and had mass Owen says that he felt said for me during my illness.” March my only symp- frightened every day while in Hosted by The Intensive tom was anosmia, ICU and he feels fear every day Care Society of Ireland, the meaning I couldn’t since. “The scariest parts were Joint Faculty of Intensive first going into ICU on Tuesday Care Medicine of Ireland and taste or smell anything because my deterioration was the College of Anaesthesiolo- for about eight to nine so quick and on Thursday and gists of Ireland, the Covid-19 days. My first symp- Friday when I really felt the National COVID Research effects of my heart failing,” and Scientific Meeting on toms before admission he explains. “The things that September 5 will focus on the were stomach pain, kept me somewhat sane while experience and learnings of sore joints and muscles, I was lying face down were Irish Intensivists (ICU doctors) the messages of support from and Anaesthesiologists during vomiting and nausea, family and friends across the the ongoing Covid-19 pan- diarrhoea, extreme world, as well as the doctors demic. They will explore what fevers and chills and a looking after me, as they were happened, the learnings, the all very concerned for my best treatments options from diffuse rash.” wellbeing. I remember trying an Irish and global perspective, to stay strong while phoning and ethical issues surrounding home every evening, some- the management of this new times struggling to complete a and challenging disease. “During what we think was sentence with the shortness of the actual viral infection back breath.” in late March my only symp- Physically Owen’s recovery tom was anosmia,” he explains took about eight weeks from “I don’t know if I’ve “meaning I couldn’t taste or admission to returning to work. mentally recovered smell anything for about eight He is aware that eight weeks from it yet as I was to nine days. My first symp- is not a long time to be out toms before admission were sick given the fact that he was very sick at the time. I stomach pain, sore joints and admitted to ICU, however he know that on any given muscles, vomiting and nausea, feels that his recovery was very day in the ICU I could diarrhoea, extreme fevers and well managed. “Physiothera- chills and a diffuse rash.” It pists phoned me everyday to have died and it is very was at this point that Owen was give me advice and answer any tough to live with that admitted for management of his concerns I might have had. I am knowledge.” symptoms and then after two still on medication for my heart days, admitted to ICU. “During and will be for the foreseeable my admission I was swabbed future. I don’t know if I’ve for Covid three times and mentally recovered from it yet The online event is free for each time it was not detected,” as I was very sick at the time. I the public to attend. How- he says. “I was however anti- know that on any given day in ever, as numbers are limited body positive, which gave us the ICU I could have died and online registration closed on the leading diagnosis, as it takes it is very tough to live with that Wednesday evening. To check approx four to six weeks post knowledge.” if there is still availability, you infection to develop antibodies. His fear now lies in the long- can email Rebeca Williams at “We are unsure but the most term effects the virus may have [email protected]. likely thing that happened is a on his health. “We don’t know The meeting takes place Kawasaki-related disease (also what the future holds. We have the day after the ICU 4 U known as PIMS) process that very limited follow-up data on Charity Cycle, which will see resulted in my lungs going antibody response, we know ICU doctors, nurses and staff into acute respiratory distress very little about these post viral cycle from all over Ireland to (ARDS), as well as an acute syndromes and we don’t know Dublin to raise €100,000 for BACK TO SCHOOL cardiomyositis, which resulted how long outside of primary people particularly affected by in my heart function becoming infection they can happen,” he the Covid-19 crisis. The cycle a third of what it should be in says. “Personally my biggest is in aid of four charities – LUNCHES sorted! the space of a few hours.” fear is a long-lasting cardio- Breakthrough Cancer Research Owen’s treatment consisted myopathy that result in heart (cancer patients), Aware Keep little tummies happy with our mostly of supportive manage- failure. My scans show us that (mental health), ALONE (older freshly baked sliced breads and tasty ment and excellent nursing my risk of that is the same as people), and ICUsteps (ICU rolls to fill their lunch boxes. care. Medication-wise, he was if I never got the infection but patients). The concept came given antibiotics, as is the case we have a knowledge base for about because ICU staff are And for a yummy after school treat with any hospitalised Covid pa- this virus that is infantile in the uncomfortable at being called why not pick up some doughnuts, tient to cover for superimposed grand scheme of things and we frontline and heroes. They cookies or cake? infection. He was also started don’t know what’s around the want to put the focus back on on cardioprotective medica- corner.” those most in need. For more Our Scally’s Bakery Range is tion, which he is still taking. He says he couldn’t be see www.icu4u.ie. perfect for the whole family. “I was also on a high dose of prouder of the people of Ireland anti-coagulation, to reduce for gritting their teeth and doing 4 September 4 – October 1, 2020 Public invited to help raise Letter from the Editor Welcome to the September issue of West Cork People. a barn for Hairy Henry I believe I welcomed you to the September issue as well in my letter last month; is anyone else having trouble keeping track of the days? airy Henry Care Farm often urgently need regular and €42,000. in Ballylickey is frequent therapeutic support. You can find out more de- I think rollercoaster is the only word to describe the summer past. Coming back after three months in lockdown, businesses enjoyed an appealing to the public Hairy Henry’s is looking tails of this worthwhile project Mary O’Brien unexpected decent summer season with staycationers choosing West Hto support its Gofundme cam- for help to raise a barn so that on Hairy Henry’s Youtube Editor Cork as their number one holiday destination. Covid, while still an paign to raise funds for a barn. sessions can take place all year channel. imminent threat, had retreated somewhat; the sun came out for a while Hairy Henry’s Farm offers around in a safe dry space, Sandra will be taking Hairy and the future didn’t seem so bleak. Then last month, some of our pol- therapeutic and educational independent from wet and Henry the therapy horse on iticians let us all down very badly (I’m not even going to go there) and activities to children and adults windy conditions. Sandra has tour in the first week of Sep- the rain came pouring down, causing massive flooding and millions of with additional needs (Autism, calculated the overall cost in tember to raise awareness of euros worth of damage in towns and villages all over West Cork. The Down Syndrome, emotional her unique service and to meet future didn’t look so rosy anymore. As a business that has been flooded and social difficulties, mental with communities all over twice in two different locations over the years, we understand the health issues etc.) and is serv- Hairy Henry Care West Cork. Families will have financial and mental pain of these business owners; West Cork needs action now, not in one years time, two years, or three, we need it now. ing the West Cork community Farm supports people an opportunity to meet up with and families and organisations Henry the horse. It’s time for our leaders to step up and ensure that culvert work and Sheila Mullins as far as Cork city. of all ages and back- The Hairy Henry tour dates flood schemes are completed, as there is only so much that small and medium businesses, the lifeblood of this country, can take! Creative Director Sandra Schmid, Therapeu- grounds to engage are: tic Riding Coach and Social with animals and nature • August 30: Schull 11am- As schools fill with the excited and happy chatter of children this Worker, together with Hairy 1pm, Ballydehob 1.30pm, week, we can only hope that everyone will continue to work towards Henry, the therapy horse, and in a safe space where Durrus 2.30pm suppressing this virus in our community. As Kieran mentions in his a unique team of friendly farm learning and growing • September 1: Macroom column this month, we face our biggest test fighting off a second wave animals, supports people of all and healing can 11am-1pm and now is the time for the people to lead. ages and backgrounds to en- happen at everyone’s • September 2: Kinsale 11am- Inside this issue, you will find plenty to take your take your mind off gage with animals and nature 1pm our current troubles. We bring you a special feature on ‘Remote Work- in a safe space where learning individual pace. • September 3: Dunmanway ing’, which for so many in West Cork has become the norm. We speak and growing and healing can 11.30am-1pm, Castletown- to employers and employees of local companies to get their experienc- Ronan Ryan happen at everyone’s individ- bere 9.30-10.30am es; covering the positives such as the freedom and increased produc- Sales Consultant ual pace. the region of €100,000. She is • September 4: Clonakilty tivity it can encourage but also addressing some of the concerns that Sandra established the Care hoping to receive some grant 9.30-11am, Bantry 12-2pm employees may have. Connectivity, Planning a Home Office Space, Farm in 2013, and she says aid and raise some money with • September 5: Bandon Technology, Retraining and Employment Opportunities and Wellbeing one of the big struggles they local and online fundraising 9.30-10.30am, Skibbereen are all discussed. have had over the years is activities. 11.30am-1pm Everyone is feeling a bit fatigued this month; it’s time to slow down the unpredictable weather; Since the campaign has and take stock. Just remember we live in one of the most beautiful parts because all sessions take place started, Sandra has raised over For more information, of the world! West Cork People outdoors, they are weather 10 per cent of the amount. please get in touch with Sandra Old Town Hall, dependent and it is very tricky A Gofundme campaign has on 087 9389867 or see her Until next month McCurtain Hill, to offer a consistent service been set up in an effort to raise website www.hairyhenry.com Mary Clonakilty, Co. Cork. all year around to clients who the outstanding amount of for more details. www.westcorkpeople.ie Joe and Sean have almost Contributors Kate Arbon Freedom of the completed their loop of Karen Austin Hannah Dare Ireland’s coastline Tina Pisco press…or not Ryan Edwards Louise O’Dwyer By Clonakilty Amnesty challenging the official statis- Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Ser- John Hosford Group tics on Covid-19 cases. bia, Bangladesh, Cambodia, John Bohane In Venezuela, where there Rwanda, Uganda, Somalia, Sean Creedon wo days before World are serious shortages to basic Tunisia, Palestine, Russia, Tania Presutti Press Freedom Day, health care and medicine, Egypt, Hungary. Noah Chase Amnesty International journalist Darvinson Rojas We need honest and factual Shane Daly Twarned that censorship of spent 12 days in detention for reporting at the best of times. Pauline Murphy reporting on the spread of the In the worst of times, with vital information related to the Kieran Doyle Covid pandemic has become a virus. conspiracy theories abounding, global phenomenon and urged In Hungary, where jour- ranging from the ridiculous i.e. Gary Hannon governments to prioritise pub- nalists have reported being that the virus was introduced Sherna Malone lic health over their own egos. harassed, threatened and by governments around the Tommy Moyles Ashfaq Khalfan, Amnesty smeared for scrutinising the world to control us – to the Jean Perry International’s Director of government’s response to the absurd i.e. that Ireland will Fiona Hayes Law and Policy, wrote, “We outbreak, Victor Orban has become/is a police state, we Grace O’Sullivan MEP amended the country’s Crimi- need the truth even more. all have a right to know about Rosari Kingston crucial issues that can affect nal Code with new provisions In this country, we can ong-cycle novices Joe McCarthy from Drimoleague and Seán Dr Jeff Featherstone our health, like equipment that threaten journalists with challenge authority and we can Gordon from Rosscarbery took a month off their summer jobs shortages, as well as to access up to five years in prison for express ourselves freely. We at The Celtic Ross Hotel to cycle around Ireland’s coastline, reliable statistics which may spreading false information. live in a democracy. For de- Lin order to help two worthy charities, West Cork Rapid Response contradict the official govern- In Myanmar, a Ministry of mocracy to survive, let alone and Pieta House. ment line.” Health Official said criminal flourish, a free press is vital. The adventurers (pictured above in Kilorglin, Co. Kerry) set off charges would be filed against We hope you will help us in on August 10 with just a tent, cooking utensils and small amount of Journalists around the world Advertisers Please Note: West Cork People does have been threatened, arrested anyone who speaks out about this vital work, either by join- luggage on their bikes. A daily log of their journey is being posted not accept liability for any loss or damage caused by any error or inaccuracy in the printing of any and harassed by governments the lack of Personal Protective ing our group in Clonakilty, on their GoFundMe page “Doing The Loop” where people have advertisement. We reserve the right to refuse or amend any advertisement, notwithstanding where, who have fallen short of telling Equipment. becoming a member and/ donated generously. Joe and Seán are learning much about Ireland’s when or by whom accepted for publication, more- coastline, visiting all its nooks and crannies, and their stories are very over we reserve the right to discontinue with the the truth to those they govern. The list of countries where or writing letters and emails. publication of any advertisement previously pub- entertaining. lished. Please note further that we cannot accept In Egypt the editor-in-chief speaking the truth to power is Phone Sue on 023 8845056 or responsibility for one or more incorrect insertion of Alkarar Press newspaper a dangerous act is long – Ni- Mary 086 8559199. They are due to arrive back in Rosscarbery around 3pm on Sunday and that no re-publication will be granted in the September 6. Collection buckets will be available between 2-4pm on case of typographical or minor changes which do disappeared for a month for ger, Venezuela, Turkey, India, not detract from the value of the advertisements. the Causeway in Rosscarbery if anybody wishes to contribute. West Cork People September 4 – October 1, 2020 5

For big dreams, small dreams and those in between, we can help with your finance – just talk to our team!

ENQUIRE ONLINE OR IN PERSON TODAY Pop in: Bantry or Castletownbere 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 6 September 4 – October 1, 2020 Community spirit evident in recent flooding but West Cork wants action Severe flooding wrecked havoc across many towns and villages in West Cork in recent weeks. Bantry, Skibbereen, Bandon and Rosscarbery were all badly hit with flooding also taking place at Dunmanway, Connonagh, Clonakilty, Drimoleague, Leap and Ballydehob. John Bohane hears from business owners and local representatives about the damage and need for action

he unseasonal high volume of rain in August, combined with high tides Tand lack of culvert defence mechanisms led to distressing www.ohob.com scenes in many businesses, residential properties and on many O’Halloran & O’Brien, one of the UK’s leading roads throughout West Cork. Groundworks & RC Frame companies, are currently The substantial damage caused recruiting the following positions across London. untold heartache for businesses and residents alike in the various • Junior Site Engineers communities. The only positive • Site Setting Out Engineers to emerge from the recent Staff Raymond Warner and flooding destruction was the Michael Corcoran pictured • Senior Site Engineers great community spirit, which during the clean up of Dri- • Project Managers with RC Frame Experience shone through in all the local nagh Co-Op shop in Bantry towns and villages. Businesses following severe flooding. We also have opportunities across the following areas: and locals rallied around helping Pic Daragh Mc Sweeney/Provision prevent more damage, which • Shuttering Carpenters typifies the great character and sense of humanity in West Cork. • Steelfixers Bantry town in particular • Groundworkers suffered acute damage in the The restaurant owner was full late hours of Monday, August 24 of praise for the role every- • Plant Operators with Barrack Street, New Street, one played. “The emergency Further training and development as your career Main Street and The Quay area services were great, all putting develops. destroyed by flooding and busi- in huge hours and doing Trojan nesses and residential property work,” he said. “We were suffering huge damage. affected badly but there were Contact: Shane Spillane, proprietor of other places that suffered much Padraig Cosgrove – Labour and Resource Manager O’Connor’s Seafood Restaurant worse so were happy to help in Bantry, was overwhelmed raise morale and assist others Mob: 00447495300438 by the scene he encountered under stress, as we are all in this Email: [email protected] on arriving at his restaurant. together.” “It came up through the drains Richard Harrington, owner and streamed in everywhere in- of The Quay’s Bar in Bantry cluding the front door. Our only echoed Shane’s sentiments. CHRISTOPHER luck was to have tiles on the Born and raised in Bantry, floor,” he says. Although Shane Richard said this was the worst acted quickly, removing all the flooding he’s ever seen in the O’SULLIVAN T.D. furniture from the restaurant, town. Richard was working there was of course still damage. when it happened. “I opened the If I can be of any “We had to close for two days blinds and saw two feet of water Patrick O’Donovan, TD, Minister of State with responsi- in order to get it professionally inside the door at 11.30pm,” assistance to you bility for the OPW, visited Skibbereen to meet with those please do not hesitate cleaned such was the volume of he shares. “I was lucky that I water,” he says. “You couldn’t was able to put sandbags out affected. to get in contact. write the script at the moment immediately, which was a huge NEW CONSTITUENCY unfortunately…first with Covid help. Like O’Connor’s, staff and brushing got the job done.” for the proposed flood relief and now severe flooding.” at The Quay’s were able to act The Quay’s was able to open the scheme. OFFICE: On a positive note, the pictur- quickly, and again having tiles following day at 12noon. “€6.7 million has been set esque town of Bantry has had a on the floor helped. “We had “Bantry urgently needs the aside for the flood scheme in 16 Ashe Street, strong summer with large num- very minimal damage compared flood relief and the culvert Bantry,” he explained. “This has Clonakilty. bers of visitors. Local business- to other places who were not so works to be completed,” says been in the pipeline over the last (Closed to the public until es such as O’Connor’s Restau- fortunate,” says Richard. “Your Richard. “We are very prone to few years. They reckon work Covid-19 restrictions are rant were happy with footfall heart would go out to the other flooding, our system is outdated, won’t be completed however lifted) over the past few months. business owners.” and it badly needs upgrading. for another three years, as it will “Business has been very good,” Richard, known to all as The recent flooding hopefully have to go through the due pro- says Shane. “However, I think Paco, was full of praise for the will focus minds and ensure cess and all the relevant parties.” we have to keep in mind that we huge support he received from progress is made quicker, which Danny promises that the have been probably busier due friends and family members, will benefit everyone in the local councillors, as elected represen- to so many other places being as he embarked on his clean-up area.” tatives, will keep the pressure closed, an unfortunate side-ef- operation. “Everyone rowed in Local county councillor Dan- on to ensure the work gets done fect of the pandemic.” and helped one another. Two ny Collins, in his role as chair of as quickly as possible. “We will The strong community spirit friends of mine rang me from the West Cork District, called a keep driving this on so the work in Bantry was evident in the Kerry and Dublin respectively, meeting for councillors and the is completed,” he assured. “I days after the flooding with offering to come down and help council executive, which was also brought up the Humani- k [email protected] Shane and his team feeding with the clean up,” he revealed. held on Monday, August 31. tarian Fund Scheme to ensure the huge groups of volunteers That gave a little boost. Every- Danny, who runs the Boston Bar residents and business owners m 087 716 1730 in clean up action throughout thing helped. My staff were also in Bantry town, revealed that the the town with soup and curry. great; a few hours of mopping necessary finance is ringfenced Continued on next page... September 4 – October 1, 2020 7

...Cont’d from previous page get adequately compensated. This scheme presently only covers businesses, but I have written to Minister McGrath to stress the need for residents to be helped also.” Councillor Collins explained the culvert works are completely separate to the flood scheme. “Minister O’Donovan and Minister McGrath also revealed that the money will be there for this work, which is good news,” he said. “The response from the various ministers has been very Visit our strong and we are guessing the ✓ SUPERB QUALITY culvert work will be done in 12,000 sq ft ✓ FANTASTIC VALUE the same timeframe. There are different stages to this job and showroom for... ✓ EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE hopefully plans will be put in place to ensure the disruption to the town won’t be too bad The clean up in Bantry. Pic Daragh Mc Sweeney/Provision during works carried out.” Danny recalled his upset upon arriving into Bantry town on the night of the flood the flooding occurred. “When I saw what was in front of me, I nearly cried,” he said. “I saw the volume of water coming down Brookpark, Clonakilty Road, Seskin over a four-foot wall, Dunmanway 023 885 6666 which was a scary sight.” www.glentreefurniture.ie Danny says the town was fortunate there wasn’t a high tide that night. “Everyone is drained from the year we have had. Business owners were just getting back on their feet and then this happens. Some businesses opened the following day, while others have yet to re-open.” He is however confident the town will get back on its feet. “Hotels and bed and breakfasts are all reporting a good summer due to domestic tourism,” he says. “Bantry is a great town with a lot of great organisations doing good work behind Hairdresser Kathleen Guth cleans her salon on Bridge street, Bandon. the scenes. Everyone works Pic Daragh Mc Sweeney/Provision together for the good of the local community and the future limit the damage to her salon. August 12, Rosscarbery and can avail of the Humanitarian is bright.” “I got an awful fright when I ar- surrounds suffered millions Grant along with business Bandon town was also hit that rived initially,” she said. “There of euro in damage caused by owners. There were a number of night; the town’s drainage and was almost two feet of water torrential rainfall over a period roads destroyed in West Cork, sewer network overwhelmed by at the door and it was up to the of 72 hours, which resulted in which also need to be repaired the incessant rainfall. Flood- windowsill. It came in halfway flash floods affecting multiple immediately.” ing occurred on Bridge Street, up the skirting on the inside.” properties. Roads were also The Clonakilty-based TD was Brady’s Lane and South Main Ashling said she was fortunate destroyed. lavish in his praise for the great Street and a number of resi- that help was on hand from Cork South West TD Chris- community spirit in all the var- dential homes and businesses great neighbours and friends. topher O’Sullivan has vowed ious towns and villages. “It was were damaged. Only prevention “The community spirit was to keep working on behalf of great to see. People were out works from emergency per- brilliant and I am so grateful all the residents and business with their brushes and generally sonnel stopped more extensive to all who helped. We got to owners who have been affected helping out. On a positive note, damage on the night. A lot of work immediately getting a lot by flooding in West Cork. “My the Bandon and Skibbereen anger was expressed by locals of the water out, which ensured heart goes out to all who were Flood Relief Schemes generally and business owners who are no lasting damage to the floors. impacted. The frequency of worked. They were successful, dismayed at the constant flood I stayed closed the following these events and the amount of as without these, more of their damage to their town despite day, as everything was wet, and towns impacted in Cork South streets would have been flooded. millions being spent on work in event, involving Cork County It is expected that a construction I had to give the whole place a West is frightening. It begs the In saying that, a thorough inves- recent years. Council and the other relevant tender process will commence thorough clean.” questions, ‘are our towns pre- tigation still needs to be carried Just less than a week before, agencies, including the Office in the coming weeks for the cul- Thankfully the flood relief pared for the extreme weather, out however. Local authorities on August 19, Skibbereen town, of Public Works (OPW) and vert and drainage works on the scheme worked in Skibbereen, which is becoming far more have questions to answer in in particular Bridge Street, also Irish Water. This will inform Cork Road, as funding support which helped ensure the rest of common?’ A commitment has regard to culverts. That is the suffered flooding damage. Once decisions on short-term and has been confirmed from OPW the town’s streets were unaf- been given to Bantry by Minis- least that business owners and again unrelenting pressure on longer-term actions, which will and TII.” fected by the flooding. Ashling ters McGrath and O’Donovan, residents deserve.” culverts resulted in the street feed into the development of “Irish Water’s Bandon Main and her business colleagues are which is great news. I welcome The following are extracts being flooded. Great community the OPW Flood Scheme and Drainage Scheme is also in hopeful the recent work on the this, but this work needs to from statements released by the spirit was again evident, which Culvert Works.” progress. This will involve culverts will further alleviate happen immediately. Bantry Cork County Council Commu- ensured business owners were “The Skibbereen flood event some storm water separation their fears going forward. has been flooded five times in nications Office in relation to able to re-open in the immediate is being reviewed jointly by and some upsizing of combined “Hopefully it won’t happen the last 30 years. In my role the flooding events in Bantry, aftermath of the flooding. Cork County Council and the sewers. This work, when com- again. All the various business as a TD, I will be pushing for Skibbereen and Bandon respec- Ashling, Daly, owner of OPW to ensure that the works in pleted, will provide significantly owners and residents have been this scheme to be implement- tively. Beatique by Ashling Daly on both The Cutting and Cork Road increased storm water capacity.” through enough,” she said. ed immediately. I will also be “A detailed assessment is now Bridge Street acted quickly to areas are robust going forward. Earlier in the month from working on ensuring residents underway into the Bantry flood 8 September 4 – October 1, 2020 Bantry Credit Union launches Scholarship 2020 antry Credit Union has announced the launch of its Announcing the launch of this year’s scholarship, Bantry The main criteria governing eligibility to apply are: annual Third-Level Education Scholarship Scheme for Credit Union Manager Finbarr O’Shea said that “it is just 1. The applicant must be either a member or the child of a 2020. The scholarship is worth up to €6,000 over four another instance of how everyone is having to adapt to the new member of good standing of Bantry Credit Union Ltd as at Byears to the winner. realities in a Covid-19 world”. January 1, 2020. Set up in 2003, the scholarship is now in its 17th year. Like He paid tribute to the Independent Adjudicators who oversee 2. The applicant must be in receipt of an offer of a place at a everything else this year, the scholarship application and award the entire competition every year. The same three adjudicators recognised third-level institution within the European Union. process is going to be done differently this autumn due to have been involved more or less from the beginning. They 3. The course the applicant intends to pursue must be a full- Covid-19. are drawn from UCC, CIT and a second-level school outside time course of at least two years’ duration and must lead to For starters, it’s being run a bit later than usual. That’s Bantry. Finbarr said their commitment to the credit union’s the award of a Higher Certificate, its equivalent or a higher because it is always tied into the CAO Round One dates. This scholarship scheme for nearly 20 years “speaks volumes about award. year, the Round One offers are being issued on September 11, the calibre, dedication and professionalism of so many educa- 4. The applicant must be entering third-level education in with a reply date of September 16. So, the closing date for tionalists who have devoted their working lives to education”. the academic year 2020/21 for the first time, whether as a receipt of completed application forms for the Bantry Credit Full details of the scholarship scheme including application school-leaver or as a mature student. Union Scholarship 2020 is Saturday, September 19. procedure, application form and Terms and Conditions will be 5. With the exception of a SUSI Student Grant, the applicant The second change this year is that the entire process is going available on the credit union’s website (www.bantrycu.ie) from must not be in receipt of any other scholarship or other form to be completed remotely. The application process with be September 4. Alternatively students can email Julie Hurley (at of funding to a value greater than €250 per annum. completed online at www.bantrycu.ie or through email. And the [email protected]) who will be handling the administration of selection process, including interviews with shortlisted candi- the scheme this year. dates, will be conducted remotely via Zoom.

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Cyprus, Gibraltar, Monaco, with the quality of the work. you have a proof of purchase Travel Green and San Marino) because What can I do? (a receipt, cheque stub, credit they had rising incidences of card statement or invoice); West Cork When you hire someone to List COVID-19. This meant that Keep all evidence of damage Supported Employment Agency perform a service you are I have to travel to a country any Irish people who had caused by poor work, for making a contract. As parties on the ‘COVID-19 green list’ travelled to Malta, Cyprus, example take photos; Check Are you looking for work? to the contract, you and the for essential purposes. What Gibraltar, Monaco, or San any warranty or guarantee you landscape gardener (the ‘ser- You may be eligible for this service. happens if it gets taken off Marino before August 4, 2020, got from your service provider vice supplier’) have rights and Please contact your local office the list while I am abroad? now have to restrict their (the warranty or guarantee is obligations. If your service for more information movements for 14 days upon the service supplier’s promise The Government is advising supplier does not do what they Bantry (Head Office) returning home. about the quality of their against all non-essential travel said they would, they are in 086 8126324 and 086 8079953 In conclusion, if you travel services and what they will do overseas. But people may need breach of the contract. Con- Skibbereen 086 8158786 to a country or territory on the if there are problems). to travel to and from Ireland tracts can be written or verbal 086 8101795 ‘green list’ and the country is Bandon for essential purposes and First, complain to service removed from the list while and a verbal agreement is still Kinsale 086 6007964 international travel cannot stop supplier – explain what the you are abroad, you will have legally binding. Clonakilty 086 8395058 and 086 6031335 completely. problem is and how you want to restrict your movements for Under the Sale of Goods For that reason, on July it to be put right. Put your 14 days to minimise your risk and Supply of Services Act, 21 2020, the Government complaint in writing so that of spreading the virus. This 1980 you can expect that: The published a ‘green list’ of you have a record. If you means you must not: supplier has the necessary countries with a similar or complain over-the-phone or • Visit other people. skill to provide the service; lower incidence of COVID-19 face-to-face make sure to take • Meet face-to-face with The service will be provided to that of Ireland. People note of what was agreed. anyone who is at higher risk with proper care and dili- entering Ireland from these lo- If the service supplier WE ARE OPEN from COVID-19. gence; The materials used will cations do not have to restrict disputes your claims about FOR PHONE & • Use public transport (if be sound; Any goods supplied their movements for 14 days. the quality of the work, you E-MAIL QUERIES possible). If you have no with the service will be of The list is intended to act as a may need to get the opinion of option but to use public ‘merchantable quality’ (that is PHONE (Kerry): guide to where Irish residents an independent expert. transport, you must wear a of reasonable and acceptable may travel safely for essential Finally, if you have com- WE0761 ARE07 7860 OPEN face covering. standard, taking into account WE ARE OPEN Email: [email protected] plained to the service supplier purposes, such as for essential • Go to the shop unless abso- other factors such as durability 10 - 4pm Monday to Friday work or to care for family and the problem is still not re- lutely necessary. If you have and price). NationalFOR Phone PHONE Service: & members. solved, you can use the small no option but to go to the Your service supplier is not Department of Foreign claims procedure (for jobs less 0761 07 4000 shop, you must wear a face allowed to mislead you. They 9am-8pm Monday to Friday Affairs and Trade (DFA) travel than €2,000) or take a civil E-MAIL QUERIES covering. should give you accurate and We regret Killarney, Kenmare, Caherciveen, Killorglin, Dingle and Listowel are closed for now. advice for countries on the case (for claims over €2,000). Their phone-lines are diverted to Tralee and we will continue to monitor emails. Lastly, everyone travelling truthful information about the Apologies for anyPHONE inconvenience this may cause.(West Cork): ‘green list’ is that you should FOR PHONE & Information & advice is available on; into Ireland from any location, service. A misleading claim take ‘normal precautions’. Know Your Rights has been • COVID-19 Measures • Health • Income Supports • Housing • Social WelfarePHONE (Kerry): a ‘green list’ country or not, includes where you were told • Education • Employment 0761 • Family Matters • Many 07 other topics 8390 This means that the country is compiled by Citizens Infor- Free, Impartial and Confidential Service must complete a Passenger the service is of particular as safe as Ireland. The security mation West Cork which For the most up to date Email: information [email protected] log on to:: Locator Form. standard or quality and it isn’t. rating for all other locations provides a free and confiden- www.citizensinformation.ie10am-5pm | www.gov.ie 0761 Monday| www.hse.ie to Friday 07 7860 You can find out more about If something goes wrong, remains unchanged at either tial service to the public. the rules regarding internation- your service supplier must National Phone Service: ‘avoid non-essential travel’ WEST CORK HELPLINE Email: [email protected] al travel during COVID-19 put things right. As a general E-MAIL QUERIES (‘orange’) or ‘do not travel’ 0761 078 390 0761 07 4000 | 9am-5pm Mon to Fri on citizensinformation.ie. rule, the service supplier can (‘red’). However, because the Email Bantry.cic@citinfo. 10 - 4pm Monday to Friday (information here correct as of repair or replace the service. Information & advice is available on: international transmission rate ieInformation is also available We are open for a limited August 13, 2020 Alternatively, they can refund • COVID-19 Measures • Health of the virus changes constant- online at citizensinformation. the costs of the service to you. • Incomenumber Supports of • appointmentsHousing • Social Welfare ly, the ‘green list’ is reviewed ie and from the Citizens Infor- National Phone Service: If you are not happy with • Education • Employment • Family Matters every two weeks. That means mation Phone Service, 0761 BY PRIOR ARRANGEMENT. Buying a the quality of the service you & Many other topics that countries and locations 07 4000. should: Act as soon as you Please Free, Impartial call and 0761 Confidential 07 8390 Service 07 4000can be added or removed at service can – a delay can indicate the end of each 14 day cycle. PHONE (Kerry): that you have accepted faulty For9am-8pm the most up-to-date Monday toFor example,Friday on August I just had a new patio fitted WE ARE OPEN services; Do not attempt to information log on to: 4 2020, two weeks after the by a landscape gardener FOR PHONE & We regret Killarney, Kenmare, Caherciveen, Killorglin, Dingle and Listowel are closed for now. repair what went wrong your- www.citizensinformation.ie ‘green list’ was first published, two months ago. The patio E-MAIL QUERIES Their phone-lines are diverted to Tralee and we will continue to monitor emails. self or give it to anyone else www.gov.ie | www.hse.ie the Government removed five slabs are already beginning Apologies for any inconvenience this may cause. to repair it; Make sure that WE ARE OPEN PHONE (Kerry): countries from the list (Malta, to crack. I am not happy 0761 07 7860 Email: [email protected] Information & advice is available on; 10 - 4pm Monday to• Friday COVID-19 Measures • Health • Income Supports • Housing • Social Welfare 0761 07National Phone Service:7860 • • • • FOR PHONE & 0761 07 4000 Education Employment Family Matters Many other topics 9am-8pm Monday to Friday Free, Impartial and Confidential Service We regret Killarney, Kenmare, Caherciveen, Killorglin, Dingle and Listowel are closed for now. Their phone-lines are diverted to Tralee and we will continue to monitor emails. Email: [email protected] for any inconvenience this may cause. Information & advice is available on; For the most up to date information log on to:: • COVID-19 Measures • Health • Income Supports • Housing • Social Welfare • Education • Employment • Family Matters • Many other topicswww.citizensinformation.ie | www.gov.ie | www.hse.ie E-MAIL QUERIES Free, Impartial and Confidential Service For the most up to date information log on to:: 10 - 4pm Mondaywww.citizensinformation.ie | www.gov.ie | www.hse.ie to Friday PHONE (Kerry): National0761 Phone 07 7860 Service: 0761Email: [email protected] 07 4000 9am-8pm10 - 4pm Monday Monday to to Friday Friday We regret Killarney,National Kenmare, Caherciveen, Phone Killorglin, Dingle Service: and Listowel are closed for now. Their phone-lines are diverted to Tralee and we will continue to monitor emails. 0761Apologies for any inconvenience07 4000 this may cause. 9am-8pm Monday to Friday We regret Killarney, Kenmare,Information Caherciveen, & advice Killorglin, is Dingleavailable and Listowel on; are closed for now. • Their phone-lines are• diverted to• Tralee and we will continue• to monitor• emails. COVID-19 MeasuresApologies Health for any Incomeinconvenience Supports this may Housing cause. Social Welfare • Education • Employment • Family Matters • Many other topics InformationFree, Impartial & advice and Confidential is available Service on; • COVID-19 Measures • Health • Income Supports • Housing • Social Welfare • Education • Employment • Family Matters • Many other topics For the mostFree, Impartial up to anddate Confidential information Service log on to:: www.citizensinformation.ie | www.gov.ie | www.hse.ie For the most up to date information log on to:: www.citizensinformation.ie | www.gov.ie | www.hse.ie September 4 – October 1, 2020 9

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Professional Design Service available by Trevor Perrott BA (HONS) Interior Achitecture & Design www.perrotts.ie Clogheen Industrial Park, Clonakilty. P85 W303 T: 023 8850855 M: 086 2420602 E: [email protected] Closed Monday. Open Tue-Fri 9.30 - 6pm. Sat 10 - 5pm. Closed 1-2pm for lunch. , 10 September 4 – October 1, 2020 Discovering a different way of schooling For so many of us homeschooling during lockdown was an exhausting trial; in fact the collective sigh of relief when the schools reopened recently could be heard all over the country. Although of course there were fun and satisfying aspects to it as well ¬– most of these were reserved for parents who didn’t have to juggle working eight-hour or longer days in the home with feeding, entertaining and educating their children. We came to really value the role that teachers play in our children’s lives. Despite this, in a climate where wearing masks, maintaining social distance and flexible working have become the norm, more and more people are turning toward homeschooling. In fact even before Covid there was a growing, active community of homeschoolers in Ireland. The Collins’ are a home-educating family of seven who live on a busy dairy farm in West Cork. Pearl Collins tells West Cork People why she decided to educate her children at home and why isolation All of the Collins fam- or pandemic schooling is in fact not the same as ily craved more family home education at all. time, nature, free thinking, hands-on learning his year was hard,” 3 and 5 o’clock school run. We and physical activity. says Pearl, who felt our quality of life was low emphasises that with little time for connection “Tpandemic schooling is a lonely and nurturing. I felt I was pursuit and certainly not the rushing the kids and myself cry together. I love to learn same as home education. Like constantly! I was burned out artisan or heritage skills such everyone else the Collins fami- and I think the kids were too,” as basketry, weaving, sowing, ly found it very tough not to see explains Pearl. beekeeping and the kids often their friends and family and to “We are now so very grateful join me.” have to call a halt to their many to have discovered a different All of the Collins children activities and pursuits out of way of life, one that is for us love performing chemistry the home. “It was lonely,” says richer in connection with each and science experiments (the Pearl “and we had to discover other and in mindfulness. It is kitchen at times becomes a lab) new ways to spend our time satisfying to think that we were hearing tales of history or doing within the restrictions of being able to adjust to what was best woodworking and tinkering. home 24/7. We missed our old for our family and the physical “One of our daughters is very life and had to adapt to the new and mental health of our chil- musical and plays the piano circumstances just like all other dren.” and harp for a couple of hours families.” Pearl acknowledges that each day, another one lives for Four out of the five Collins every family will have different art,” says Pearl. “We are always children (aged three, eight, needs and what suits one family looking for opportunities to Four out of the five Collins children (aged three, eight, 10, 13 and 15) are schooled at home. 10, 13 and 15) are schooled may not be right for another but build on and expand the diver- at home. The children pursue she says this was their calling. sity of skills we have. In our individual passions, as well As well as keeping chickens, eyes the children’s education inhibited,” she explains. “Close enough, we said we would give ly working her way towards as learning together, each to ducks and geese and sharing does not cease at any one point family members, describing it a go!” says Pearl. her International Highschool their age, ability and interest their days with two wolf- throughout the day or during one of our children, said ‘the She says there are many Diploma (Leaving Certificate “and our 13-year-old daughter hounds, the family grows a lot the holidays. When we do not spark was gone.’” options available to choose Equivalent) via Clonlara (www. currently attends secondary of their own produce for a large have our heads in books or in a Through discussion, Pearl from for whatever style of clonlara.org). “It works via a school,” says Pearl. “They are part of the year, trying to live hands-on experience – we may and her husband discovered home education might suit your credit system,” she explains all free to choose their path as sustainably as possible. Pearl be still busy learning through they had a different idea of family. “You can explore differ- “there are no exams and she is and we support them along the works from home, her husband free play, simply by observing, what an education looked like ent curriculums, unschooling, free to create her own curricu- way.” works on the farm; they all nav- discussing or exploring.” for their family. ”Foremost self directed learning, Charlotte lum. She will be able to apply Pearl, a ceramicist, who igate life, the ups and downs, Pearl says that the incessant we wanted to nourish our Mason approach, Waldorf etc. for college just like any student also works as a stylist, content together. monitoring and evaluation of children’s faith in their own it takes time to work out what that has come through the creator and business and mar- Where do they find time for pupil’s performances caused competence and nourish their suits. We don’t personally put Leaving Certificate.” keting mentor, says that home homeschooling? “But there is their children to develop self-awareness and self-confi- a label on how we do home The children take their education has transformed her is so much learning in everyday anxiety, angst and trepidation dence,” she explains. education, probably we have learning from a wide variety family’s way of life. life too,” says Pearl. about school, which is why All of the Collins family learned something from all of resources ¬– explorations, “Some years ago we found We love to be active,” she they decided to take them out craved more family time, the styles and have over time books, interactions, museums, ourselves completely stressed explains “we hike, we surf, we of mainstream education. nature, free thinking, hands-on created our own.” exhibitions, hands-on work- out! I would spend nearly three love taking the boats out on the Their creativity, natural learning and physical activity. While not following a curric- shops, documentaries, podcasts hours driving everyday for all lakes. We read an awful lot. curiosity and love of learning “Simply put the children were ulum per se in home educating or audiobooks…but predomi- the school runs with a newborn We cook together, we garden and their problem solving just not happy people anymore her children, Pearl shares how nantly people, moments, expe- in the car; we had an 8, 9, 12, 2, together, we laugh and we and eventually enough was her eldest daughter is current- skills eventually became very Continued on next page... September 4 – October 1, 2020 11

...Cont’d from previous page riences and lots of discussions and debates! A huge part of the learning happens outside of the home and the family interact with lots of people on a daily basis. “We meet with other home educators once a week and we have several activities we go to, for example the kids attend oil painting and classical drawing classes at the Clonakilty School of Painting,” explains Pearl. “Don’t be afraid!” is the message Pearl wants to get across to anyone considering home educating their children “Parents embarking on homeschooling tend to worry a lot about Maths; our eldest has taught herself (supported by us) all of the advanced algebra and is currently working through trigonometry. There are such fantastic resources out there to assist and support our children’s learning. Some of our favourites are Mel Chemistry (subscription-based), A letter needs investigating or a ques- work too has made me be a from Afar and the Life of Fred tion that pops up!” she admits. more resourceful, understand- Maths books for something “I would be telling lies if I ing and a happier mum!” online-based; Khan Academy didn’t say that it is really tiring For anyone looking for help is brilliant and free.” and trying at times but it’s so to get started on their home ed- The main challenge for Pearl worth it seeing those happy ucating journey, Pearl is happy and her husband is getting to faces every morning full of zest to be contacted on Facebook spend quality time with each ready to start another day of (Pearl Collins) and she will add other. “Sometimes it’s hard to home education. any interested parents on to have a longer conversation, as “It took a lot of time spent the home education Facebook there always seems to be an together and much persever- groups. interruption, a curiosity that ance…but I believe all the hard

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CLONAKILTYPARKHOTEL D E Q T. 023 88 36400 Hotel • Restaurant • Leisure Club • Cinema • Adventure Centre 2020 Businesswoman of the Year winners announced at Network Ireland West Cork Virtual Awards ceremony he Network Ireland West Flower Farm took home the Solo Cork Businesswoman Businesswoman Award; Marie of the Year Awards 2020 Wiseman of Wiser Marketing Tceremony took place in a very won the Award for Emerging different style this year with a Business; and the Business virtual meeting. Network Ireland Innovation Award went to is Ireland’s longest established Anne-Marie Kingston of White and leading female focussed Sage Decluttering. business network. It is the go-to The theme of this year’s national women in business awards is ‘Power Within’, a organisation to promote, support celebration of the resilience, mo- and lead women in business at all tivation, insights and know-how levels and to drive their profes- that women in business have to sional and personal development. fulfil their potential and lead and Guest speaker for the evening inspire others. Each of this year’s Margaret Nelson, CEO of finalists were entered into a very FM104 and Q102 celebrated all special award category ‘Power finalists and highlighted the im- Within Champion’ designed to portance of networking, saying recognise these qualities and the “Networks are communities of winner of this award was Bar- people and fundamentally it’s bara Noonan Sexton of Barbara about people and connections Noonan Homeopathy. when in business.” Speaking at the awards, The awards were sponsored by Caroline Murphy, President of AIB, official partner of Network Network Ireland West Cork, said, Barbara Noonan Sexton of Barbara Noonan Homeopathy. Anne-Marie Kingston of White Sage Decluttering. All pics:Dermot Sullivan Ireland since 2013. Vicki Crean, “To celebrate this year’s awards AIB Manager of Service and virtually was both a new experi- Sales, Cork Local Market, spoke ence but also a lot of fun. We are on behalf of the judging panel, in very proud of the Network Ire- which she was joined by Kevin land West Cork Awards winners, Buckley, co-founder and chief Mags, Marie, Anne Marie and executive officer (CEO) at Spear- Barbara. These awards are a real line and Deirdre O’Shaughnessy, opportunity to firstly review their editor and co-presenter of Cork’s businesses and then showcase 96FM Opinion Line. Vicki said, them to a wider audience. It can “AIB are delighted to sponsor be a real confidence booster as these awards and support women to receive this kind of acknowl- in business. This year proved to edgement is very special. My be an exceptional year of change heartfelt condolences to the other for everyone with businesses finalists but I’m confident that having to pivot their business the winners will represent our model to suit customer needs.” branch in a very positive and She congratulated all those who professional way. entered the awards and said “En- “As a branch, we have been tries were very strong this year, so well represented at National and as judges, it was hard to level. We are hoping for a hat select a winner in each category, trick win in 2020 and to bring they are all winners for going a third National award back to through the award process in a West Cork,” she added. Caroline time of such challenges.” thanked all those who entered, All those who entered the along with the judges and speak- Marie Wiseman of Wiser Marketing. Mags Riordan of Bumblebee Flower Farm. awards were congratulated ers and the committee for all for their outstanding achieve- their input in making this a very ments and recognised for their special event. which is Féileacáin, a charity Féileacáin offer to families who West Cork businesses and put a for the coveted national awards, resilience in such a challenging One hundred per cent of ticket very close to Caroline’s heart. have been affected by the death spotlight on them not only on a which will be hosted virtually year. The awards winners on the sale proceeds from this event Caroline thanked Marie Cregan of a baby. local, but on a national level. The from Powerscourt Hotel on evening were as follows. will be donated to branch pres- from Féileacáin who spoke pas- Each of the winners selected winners from Network Ireland’s Friday, October 2, 2020. Mags Riordan of Bumblebee ident Caroline’s chosen charity, sionately about the support that from this region will showcase regional awards will compete September 4 – October 1, 2020 13

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MUNSTER OLLSCOIL TECHNOLOGICAL TEICNEOLAÍOCHTA UNIVERSITY NA MUMHAN 14 September 4 – October 1, 2020 When food can kill – a lesson from WWII obviously in need of medical looked wretched and pathetic, so family and friends around the From an article about Belsen in orexia nervosa patients, but there care – took food such as biscuits they relented and asked again, world. “Some of the sick did a BBC series on the liberation of are a variety of other types of and chocolate bars from their in a kinder tone. ‘And what is not realise that they were now the camps: ‘Some inmates had patients with severe malnutrition. own government-issued ration over there?’ they said, pointing free people,” recalled Tadeusz been starved for so long that they Among other lessons, these cases supplies and gave them to the northwards. Also a concentration Kusiński, a Red Cross orderly. had lost the ability to digest the have given us an opportunity to prisoners, not knowing that camp. ‘And beyond that?’ Also a At least 500 of the 4,500 patients rations that well-meaning British study the actual time of onset of it would lead to their almost camp. ‘And beyond the camp?’ died, many from refeeding soldiers offered them; within hypophosphatemia. The average immediate death. It is estimated Over there in, the forest, are syndrome or a lack of sanitary minutes of taking a biscuit, some time is 1.9 days after refeeding that 500 POWs from Auschwitz the crematoria, and beyond the facilities. inmates just passed away.’ begins. This is generally in line concentration camp and as many crematoria, we don’t know.” Shocked at the skeletal condi- During starvation our body with the best reports from Belsen as 14,000 from the Belsen con- The first Soviet troops to tion of some of the prisoners they makes a number of changes to its and other camps, which stated THE HISTORY centration camp – most famously arrive moved on toward other were liberating who had been chemistry in response to starva- that many prisoners died after known as the site where Anne targets, but the Red Army soon subsisting on starvation diets tion, changes which are intended just a few days. & POLITICS Frank’s family died upon capture took over the camps, establishing for months or even years, Allied to preserve its most important More importantly, these – died of refeeding syndrome. field hospitals on site. Polish Red soldiers handed over every scrap tissues for as long as possible. modern cases have taught us how CORNER There are reports from 1945 Cross workers — volunteer doc- of food they could lay their Electrolyte imbalances often re- to refeed safely and avoid the Shane Daly of prisoners dying immediately tors, nurses and paramedics who hands on. But then — many of sult. Then when you start eating syndrome altogether. According having taken their first bites of just months earlier had partici- these reports say — ‘the succour again, a whole wave of fluid and to data published in the British food, however when fleeing the pated in the Warsaw Uprising — has an unexpected and horrifying electrolyte shifts takes place. Medical Journal, which studied Shane Daly is a History concentration camps, the Nazi’s assisted in the recovery too. “The effect: some of the prisoners fall Insulin production increases, over ten thousand such cases, Graduate from University burned thousands of documents situation was desperate,” recalled instantly dead at the first bite, among other changes. The main 100 per cent of patients went College Cork, with a BAM and medical records that they Józef Bellert, the physician within minutes many others have feature of refeeding syndrome is into hypophosphatemia when in History and an MA in Irish kept from previous experiments who organised the group. “We followed.’ hypophosphatemia, a dangerous fed intravenously with a solution History. on the prisoners, therefore it is could barely administer the most The most infamous of these shortage of phosphates in the that did not include phosphorus very difficult to confirm this to urgent medical aid.” As they got stories comes from the Ber- serum, as well as shortages of supplementation; but when it did, be true. The reports of people to work, they saw body parts gen-Belsen concentration camp other minerals. Phosphorus in the incidence was reduced to just dying immediately may also be strewn around ad hoc cremation in northern Germany, best particular is essential for all cel- 18 per cent. So clearly, phos- “They were put on a rich diet attributed to the many other ail- pits used after the SS demolished known as the camp where Anne lular processes, and hypophos- phate supplementation is key in and began to recover and put ments that the POWs would have Auschwitz-Birkenau’s crema- Frank died after her family’s phatemia can result in respiratory refeeding. The current recom- weight on but then they died been suffering from. What we toria; human remains and ashes arrest. Belsen did not have gas failure, cardiac failure, arrhyth- mended guidelines for refeeding suddenly.” –Laurie Pettit do know now (from documented were everywhere. Survivors chambers and did not conduct mia, seizures, coma, and death. malnourished patients is to start refeeding cases in the years post suffered from malnutrition, mass executions as were carried Although the liberating soldiers with multivitamin supplements, efeeding syndrome for 1945 and advances in medical bedsores, frostbite, gangrene, out at Auschwitz and others, but at Belsen quickly learned that and then proceed with feeding many centuries was an knowledge from cases of patients typhus, tuberculosis and other by the end of the war it was suf- refeeding was doing its share of at 10 kcal per kilogram of body unknown entity and re- suffering from anorexia) is that ailments. And though the SS had fering from a terrible epidemic harm, the mechanisms weren’t weight per day, and slowly in- Rmained somewhat of a myth until death from refeeding, if it is done attempted to destroy all evidence of typhus and was as deadly as known. But they couldn’t just crease it over four to seven days. the liberation of the Nazi concen- incorrectly, occurs within 36-48 of mass murder, they had left any camp. In December 1944, not feed the people. And from This allows the patient to adjust tration camps in 1945. As well hours of first taking in sustenance massive storerooms filled with five months before the camp was what’s recorded historically and to the re-introduction of calories as being a relatively unknown to the body. This is a result of the shoes, dishes, suitcases, and liberated, Germany began mass what’s known today, it does and has a much higher chance entity, it is also possibly the least body going into shock from the human hair. “It was chaos,” says transportation of prisoners from indeed appear that fatal refeeding of survival. The phenomenon of talked about cause of fatality in re-introduction to calories. Jonathan Huener, a Holocaust other camps into Belsen. This syndrome was responsible for refeeding syndrome is unusual the Second World War. As Soviet scouts, then troops, historian at the University of made the overcrowded, diseased, at least some substantial portion but the unfortunate events of the Soviet soldiers upon the liber- arrived at the Auschwitz com- Vermont. and starvation conditions far of those 14,000 post-liberation liberation of concentration camps ation of WWII camps were met plex, bewildered prisoners greet- Once established, the Red worse. From that point, the death deaths. during the Second World War by thousands of men, women ed them with tears and embraces. Cross staff and local volunteers rate of prisoners approximately We do see refeeding syndrome has allowed us to become more and children who had been in a Anna Polshchikova, a Russian responded as best they could to tripled every month, reaching today. There’s no ethical way educated on the topic and in turn state of medical starvation for prisoner, later recalled the gruff the survivors’ needs, navigating a over 18,000 dying in March to deliberately put test subjects equipped us with the ability to months on end. The well-mean- confusion of the first soldiers. cacophony of different languag- 1945 alone. into such a dangerous physical save the lives of countless people ing soldiers – met at the gates of “‘And what are you doing here?’ es. They diagnosed patients, gave When the allied troops arrived, state, but people already in that in the future. the camps by POWs with their they enquired in an unfriendly them identification documents they found 60,000 survivors, condition do come into hospitals, ribs and sternum protruding manner. We were baffled and and clothing, and sent over 7,000 most of who were near death so we have study data on the from their bodies and chests and did not know what to say. We letters to help the patients locate from typhus, starvation, or both. syndrome. Mostly these are an- The ‘Secrets’ of Skibbereen’s Masonic Lodge isitors to Skibbereen away on Mardyke Street, with simply as the Masonic Hall. Evans, a retired HSE manager, is ner on members who may be ill Hospice, Schull Community are sometimes sur- a neo-classical façade adorned But what is freemasonry and happy to explain. or in hospital, and so on. There Hospital and West Cork Women prised to come across a with a ‘square and compasses’ what secrets lie within? The are sometimes presentations on against Violence. In March this Vbuilding, incongruously tucked motif. Locals have ever known it present master of the lodge, Pat “Freemasonry is a world-wide various aspects of freemasonry year, we donated €5,000 to organisation that has its origins such as our history, the ancient local frontline volunteer services in the traditions and ceremonies origins or our ritual; how men helping those most at need in our of the medieval stonemasons. of good character may make a community due to the Covid-19 Daniel O’Connell, “The Libera- better contribution to the society pandemic. tor”, described it as “philanthro- in which we live. In keeping with “Government Covid-19 py, unconfined by nation, colour, the ethos of freemasonry dis- Regulations permitting, both sect or religion.” cussions relating to politics and visitors and locals will be very “The Grand Lodge of Free- religion are strictly prohibited welcome to visit Skibbereen’s masons of Ireland was formed in and no member is allowed to use unique lodge room on Culture 1725 and is a fraternal, non-polit- their membership for personal Night 2020 to be held on Friday, ical, non-religious and charitable benefit or gain. 18th September 2020. To ensure organisation that welcomes men “The meeting concludes with a safe and enjoyable visit, admit- of good character to member- a charity collection and closing tance will be by advance online ship. It administers lodges across ceremony after which we enjoy a booking only on eventbrite.ie. Don’t renew your HOUSE Ireland from its headquarters small ‘festive board’ prepared by For those unable to visit, you at Molesworth Street, Dublin one of our members. can still enjoy a virtual tour from insurance without talking to us. (www.freemason.ie). “Each Christmas we donate your armchair that evening on “Skibbereen’s lodge was to local charities. Over the www.culturenightcorkcounty. Barrack Street, Bantry • (027) 52233 formed in 1817. We meet eight years these have included the ie. If you can’t make it on the times a year, from October to Society of Saint Vincent de Paul night you can see our video on Bridge Street, Dunmanway • (023) 8845185 May. Each meeting begins with (Skibbereen), Cope, Co-Action, youtube. Everyone is welcome Bridge Street, Skibbereen • (028) 21272 a formal ceremony, then the rou- Skibbereen Geriatric Society/ on the night, so spread the word- tine business of minutes, matters Meals-on-Wheels, Cancer it’s not a secret! arising, a report from the almo- Connect West Cork, Marymount September 4 – October 1, 2020 15 How a Scot accidentally discovered his West Cork heritage In last month’s issue Brigade, Section Commander of wonderful distractions, and we the West Cork Brigade Flying were pressed for time, leaving Paul O’Neill’s journey Column, but also my great uncle us unable to achieve all that we tracing his West Cork and my dad’s godfather. We had planned to see and do. This roots took him to realised quite a few things that just means I’ll have to come day, such as how ignorant we back very soon – to revisit the Dunmanway. This were of Irish history. We learned farm at Reenroe, and find my month he continues on also that these fighting men great grandparents’ grave, visit to Reenroe in of Kilmichael were extremely Uncle Stephen’s grave and his brave, incredibly hardy, ready old shop in Clonakilty and do Clonakilty. and willing to make the ultimate a lot more detective work and sacrifice and are rightly talked nosing around. Mostly though ur next stop was the about and commemorated to this I’ll return just to be in West farm at Reenroe, day. Not only that – we had a Cork, the place of my ancestors Clonakilty where my war hero in our family (just not and kin, and to feel it soak into Ograndfather was born. At that the kind that can be celebrated my bones. It is part of me now Paul, Jan 2020, standing in the same spot in Dunmanway as his time, it was in the hands of an- too readily in the UK) and the father and friends were pictured in the 1946 photo below. – I suppose it always has been other of my Dad’s cousins and family could not have been – and I feel lucky to have such his wife where another warm prouder. deep-seated connections. I also welcome awaited us (although I have since devoured all the feel hugely privileged to have I’m thoroughly ashamed to reading material I could find known the people I met and to say that I forget their names). on West Cork’s vital role in the have experienced all that I have. Their farmhouse was built in the Irish War of Independence, and I still wonder what became of 1950s, if memory serves, but Uncle Stephen is mentioned that young man from Cork city the remains of the original farm several times. By all accounts, though – I feel like I owe him a cottage, the one in which my he was dedicated to the cause, huge debt of gratitude, but he’ll grandfather was born, were only was valued by his peers and ac- probably never know anything a few hundred yards away, al- quitted himself with valour, but about his accidental, yet vital though it was just an overgrown after playing an important role role in my amazing West Cork pile of rubble at that time. We in many engagements and going family story. felt like royalty when our hosts on the run, was captured and If anyone would like to get in dusted off some antique-look- spent a year in British prisons. touch with Paul regarding any ing bottles of Guinness for us, After the war, he ran a shop in aspect of this story, he would and we were then regaled with Clonakilty and worked in the love to hear from you at pau- memories of days gone by. They building trade, amongst other [email protected]. all talked about my grandfather, things, then lived out the latter recalling him as a person they part of his life in Co. Kerry Paul’s article in full will be me, and invited me to visit may be gone now but my ties area much more thoroughly knew well and loved, but also with his wife and family. He availble to read shortly on them, so I have a new connec- to the place still feel strong. We during our most recent trip, remembering his prowess as a sadly died on July 7, 1966, just www.westcorkpeople.ie tion with my Irish family. had intended to investigate the but Ireland is full of the most horseman, and we were shown days before the unveiling of the Before I left that day in 2003, a photo of him jumping over a Kilmichael monument, an event I bought a print of a lovely rather high-looking farm wall he had been looking forward to painting by local artist James on a horse. I wish I remembered attending. McCarthy: ‘Early Morning, more about that visit, but I was The remainder of our trip Dunmanway’ from 1967, in young then, a bit bewildered by was of course very enjoyable which a group of men in work the tsunami of family history, but when Iain and I look back clothes are waiting outside and things that didn’t seem all on that week in Ireland; it is Denis O’Neill’s pub. It has held that important then feel like the our West Cork experiences that pride of place on my wall all most vital of details now. Being we value most. It was almost these years and I look at it often, in the same room as those four as magical for him as it was for with great fondness. people was very special. me. My wife and I had been plan- We stayed a couple of hours, The magic didn’t stop there ning a trip to visit Margaret for then dropped Michael back however – when I went home quite a while before we heard at his shop and said goodbye, and told my Dad all about what the sad news. We decided to go but our day was by no means had occurred, it inspired him to anyway and in January 2020, finished, as Denis was very keen make a trip over himself and he from old haunts in Donegal, we for us to see an essential totem was able to reconnect with his journeyed in our wee camper in our family history, the Kilm- long-lost family, so that chance van, down the stunning Wild ichael monument. In Glasgow, encounter on a Spanish island Atlantic Way to West Cork, with where we grew up, the IRA was gave rise to a remarkable chain some unexpectedly beautiful taboo, mainly due to the ongo- of events and made a lot of weather. ing troubles in N. Ireland. You’d people very happy. The pub had closed down see it graffitied on walls and In 2003, I made another after Margaret’s passing and, as sometimes hear IRA songs at pilgrimage back to Dunmanway I stood outside the locked door, football matches but it was well and discovered that, sadly, De- its emptiness echoed my sense known to all that its mere men- nis and Michael had both passed of loss. It had felt to me like the tion could land you in serious on. The TV shop was closed heart of West Cork and the seat trouble. Imagine our surprise down and empty, which was a of my family. I was still glad to then, when we were taken to this shame, but I was delighted to be there, as it felt like I was pay- massive monument with ‘Irish find Margaret still running the ing tribute to all those we had Republican Army’ engraved pub. She had changed its name lost, including my Dad, who had on it. I remember, much to my to Nealums in tribute to Denis passed away in 2006. I had his embarrassment, looking around after his death, as Nealum was old Dunmanway cycling photos uneasily to make sure no one the affectionate nickname the with me and managed, with a was there to see us, as we’d get locals had for him. It was won- bit of detective work, to find the reported, or something. derful to be back, this time with exact spots in which they were On the very spot where one of my son Euan, and the reception taken. I had also brought a photo the most important engagements we received took me right back of the painting I love so much, of the Irish War of Independence to those earlier days. I kept in so I tried to recreate that too, 53 took place, Denis, swelling with touch with Margaret thereafter, years after it was painted. pride, told the gripping story of mostly by way of Christmas West Cork, you may have the boys of Kilmichael. One of cards and was greatly saddened gathered, is very dear to me those boys was Stephen O’Neill, to hear of her passing in 2019. and will always be in my heart. Staff Captain of the Third Cork Her brother’s family informed The pub and the people I knew 16 September 4 – October 1, 2020 We are facing our biggest test yet at the top table and decry the the green list changed, and some pop into a shop holding up the context, there are more cases of is that school buses will operate failures of our leaders yet never of those messages changed. You collar of a t-shirt because yet Covid-19 emerging daily now in at 50 per cent capacity. Yet in think about our own misadven- cannot have a static set of rules again, the mask was left at home. Ireland and worldwide than there the same breath told, if it isn’t tures. The blame culture deflects like the Ten Commandments that ‘Sure, tis only a few minutes I’ll was when the schools closed possible, students will have to us from our own culpability. So are fixed and permanent. Circum- be indoors – what’s the hassle!’ mid-March. buddy up daily with the same here goes in my attempt to get stances change, messages must The numbers of Covid-19 cases Anecdotal evidence and hear- partner, in over-crowded buses. under everyone’s skin this month! change, we must change – but are rising again because the rules say are unhelpful, so let’s look at It isn’t feasible to run half full Let us begin with the attach- here’s the rub. It is we ‘the peo- are being broken every single the facts. Denmark has opened buses, so where is the emergency ment of blame for the so-called ple’ who don’t want to change. day, long before the latest fiasco its schools and there has been no investment for transport? Tell the ‘mixed messages’ that have us Let us be honest here – we ‘the with Calleary, Buttimer, Hogan explosion of cases. Berlin opened public what they want to hear but all confused. We are a country people’ treat the Covid-19 rules and co at the golf function. We do theirs and after just two weeks, do not deliver on the big issues. HISTORY & of capable people. We have, for like a menu. We pick and choose not need bad leadership to show 41 schools (at the time of writing) Don’t get me wrong, it’s example, hundreds of thousands what suits us. One day you are us what not to do when clearly are closed down with the virus. essential on every front imagin- of university graduates, entrepre- listening to Joe Duffy, enraged we are making a good go of it So, will we be Denmark, or will able; education, wellbeing, the POLITICS neurs, lawyers and farmers, who by how a bunch of twenty-year- already. Apologies to the cohort we be Germany? A lot depends economy, parents’ sanity, that the have to juggle a million things in olds had a house party, as you of readers who have shown re- on how we behave, but also the schools are reopened. But let us Kieran Doyle one day; stay-at-home mums and slip into your jacket before going straint. It is to you we must look health guidelines. be Copenhagen and not Berlin. dads, who have had to be tutors, off to the local GAA or soccer for inspiration. It is a pandemic, Principals and management We can do it, but we need a sys- s we tumble towards carers, cooks and entertainers; game, where you’ll stand shoul- it is unprecedented and it needs have been working around the tematic, uniformed approach and a second wave of tradesmen who impress us with der-to-shoulder with spectators an unprecedented response. The clock for the last number of genuine workable guidelines. Not Covid-19 and everyone their knowledge and knowhow. and possibly attend a game where simplest message of them all is – weeks. They have been given Department of Education populist Ain the country looks to blame the It simply amazes me how with the crowd is in excess of the the virus has not gone away so do the unenviable task of doing the messages or laissez-faire public government, I am always struck all our capabilities, intelligence guideline limit. ‘Sure, that’s noth- the right thing. impossible. We already have attitudes. We are in a maelstrom by one thing: The failure to look and experience, we can’t handle ing compared to those ‘yokes’ at one of the most overcrowded of political chaos and a rising tide at ourselves as a jigsaw piece in the so-called mixed messages? the house party!’ Let us all clap Education classrooms in Europe and some- of Covid-19 cases. We ourselves the blame game. Only last month We are told one day that we can the healthcare workers again and As a society we are facing our how the principals and boards can take the initiative in how I wrote about our role in choosing have a limit of 15 in a house until call them heroes and then go to biggest test yet. One million of management have been asked we, as a society, engage in the our politicians who represent us, the next week it changes to six. a pub after – for some token of children are mobilising for school to wave a magic wand to put single biggest daily movement and how we must share the con- Masks were not compulsory in food (or no food) and a feast of in September. In addition to students into rooms where they of people since lockdown. We sequences when we turn a blind shops, now they are, and so on. pints. ‘Sure, what harm is it doing this, hundreds of thousands of are a metre apart? (Let’s forget can play our part even if those on eye and choose bad politicians. We were advised not to travel to – this was a silly rule anyway!’ parents are transporting them to the disingenuous Department of high do not. Now it’s our turn to I wrote about how we expect help keep out the virus, but if you Let us be outraged if a hair- and from school. It is a massive Education guideline, ‘two metres show leadership. our politicians to be cleaner than had to, there was a green list of dresser, waiter or a retail worker body of people on the move, as where possible’, which was never clean – and once again, they fail countries that meant a quarantine doesn’t wear a mask when well as mixing, and it will test us achievable.) Another guideline us. We correctly look upwards was not required on return. Then serving us, but think it’s okay it like nothing before. To put it in by the Department of Education Further submissions invited to national project chronicling life during the pandemic

ust a few months on from hundreds of images and over a the moment’ documentation of alone to future generations, and lockdown, questionnaire hundred questionnaire entries the everyday can do is to record that the information that CFP entries submitted in April detailing people’s everyday lives the thoughts, feelings and obser- gathers as an archive on the Jand early May 2020 to the Cork and routines, preoccupations, vations that we might forget in context of what we collect will Folklore Project’s online ‘Chron- challenges, joys and reflection retrospect. It also provides space become more and more valuable icles of COVID-19’ project, on what the crisis means to us. for experiences, details and as time goes on,” says Clíona. reflect a different world. Clíona O’Carroll, Research viewpoints that aren’t reflected It was Cork Folklore Project’s On April 7, Cork Folklore Director with the CFP updates in the mainstream media.” first time using online – or in- Project launched a call for us on the work and issues an She explains how one relevant deed any kind of written – ques- people to send in audio, text and invitation to all those interested question is: ‘What does this tionnaires in its work. “I have to images, or to fill in the online to get involved. project do that isn’t already admit that I had always viewed questionnaire, in order to create “When the crisis hit, we had happening on social media, with written questionnaires as a very a record of what life was like to ask ourselves if this kind of a people sharing stories and imag- poor relation of the face-to-face interested who didn’t have the cy Strategic Funding Scheme for people in Ireland during project was worth carrying out at es?’ “Although social media was interview, wondering how they time or the access to participate to share the material already the pandemic. Since then, the a time when everyone, including awash with personal accounts, could approach anything like the at the time. “We’re very aware gathered in the project. Cork community-based folklore and ourselves, was in a situation of we were aware that this material same richness, and even whether that those in healthcare or Folklore Project is eager to find oral history archive has received uncertainty and under stress. isn’t likely to be available to they were worthwhile at all. service industries, carers, those out more about life now that over fifty audio recordings, One thing that this kind of ‘in ourselves in another decade, let Now I have occasion to eat my without good internet access the newness of the situation words. The detail, the thought- or computer literacy, and many has faded but also to follow up fulness, the surprises, the hope, others heavily affected by the on major themes that emerged the sadness, the view into other situation, would not have had from this phase. For example, people’s lives – for example, the same chance to put their ex- many people commented that what it’s like to live your life as periences ‘on the record’,” says the pandemic reminded them ‘extremely medically vulnerable’ Clíona. Cork Folklore Project is strongly of past epidemics and HOLLY CAIRNS TD in the early days of COVID-19 inviting everyone reading this to crises: remembered either from Cork South West – and the humour: all of this consider taking part in the proj- personal experience, such as the Progress | Equality | Democracy | Sustainability richness contained in the contri- ect, to visit the project webpage polio epidemic in Cork city in butions has made me realise how or to access the Irish-language 1956, or through family stories, My constituency offices in Bandon the use of questionnaires can be questionnaire on corkfolklore. such as those about the 1918 and Skibbereen are closed during the very worthwhile, particularly in org. You can fill out the ques- Spanish ‘Flu pandemic. tionnaire, or send in material, If you have stories, memo- pandemic but please get in touch if these kinds of circumstances.” You can sample some of the in order to add your thoughts, ries, reflection or description of there’s anything I can do to help you. material that people contributed photos, stories and reflection to life now or in the past that you in a previous West Cork People this ‘people’s archive’. would like to share, or are happy article by going to the westcork- The material collected so far to facilitate someone you know has been archived, and it will who would like to contribute, m people.ie website and searching 086 3615830 under the ‘Coronavirus’ section. be available as a community please do get in contact. k [email protected] People of all ages and from and research resource from now For more information go to on. Cork Folklore Project has corkfolklore.org. D many walks of life contributed @HollyCairnsTD to the project, but Cork Folklore received a grant from UCC’s E Holly Cairns TD Project is very aware that there College of Arts, Celtic Studies were many who might have been and Social Sciences’ Emergen- September 4 – October 1, 2020 17 people A flavour of West Cork SUNDAY CARVERY LUNCH Main courses from €13.50

CLONAKILTYPARKHOTEL D E Q T. 023 88 36400 Hotel • Restaurant • Leisure Club • Cinema • Adventure Centre Stay in with style in a SnugPub Have you ever dreamed unit is 8ftx5ft but we can members. workforce to keep pace with custom build to any customers “Our success so far has demand!” of owning your own specific requirements. We have been a huge team effort and we For more details call pub? Or are you miss- installed some units in schools believe that if a job is worth 087 237 4184 or email ing some barstool ban- as their ‘tuck shops’ and some doing it is worth doing right. [email protected] of our bigger units are also That’s a belief that is now pay- www.Snugpub.ie ter over a pint? Two en- being used as home offices… ing dividends. We plan to move terprising friends from the possibilities are endless our operation to new commer- Macroom are filling a for GAA ticket offices etc. We cial premises shortly and will gap in pub lovers lives also offer a discount to VFI probably need to increase our with their quirky hand- crafted garden bars. Since they started in early summer, business is booming and Snug- outdoor sound systems can Pub is now delivering all be seen in the catalogue on to gardens and patios the company’s website. Roller around Ireland. shutters are also available to secure your investment! he innovative duo, “We are constantly develop- Donal Mulcahy and ing what we offer,” says Donal. Billy Murphy, go back “We seek out quality products Ta long way; their fathers also that will enhance the experi- worked together on various ence of your pub.” projects in the past. When SnugPub offers a nation- the sudden sunny spell hit in wide service and delivery lockdown, Donal, an insurance is usually within two weeks broker by day, started thinking pride in everything we do and of a confirmed order. When about how glorious it would be will not compromise, and we the company calls to fit your for people to have their own feel this will stand us going pub, social distancing is fully garden bar, open anytime and forward.” respected. serving their favourite tipple. SnugPub offer all the extras SnugPubs are also available He approached Billy, a builder, you could dream of for your for businesses and organi- with his idea and SnugPub was very own pub. Draft beer, sations that need assistance born. larger and stout, bottle fridges, with social distancing. Donal “We have been delighted traditional beer lanterns and explains that: “Our standard with the response to SnugPub,” says Donal. “People are loving the product, especially now that we are still unable to head Dinty’s Bar Main Street, Union Hall down to ‘the local’ for a drink T: 028 33373 / 085 7269977 | Thurs-Sun & Bank Hols 12-9pm Staying in is the new going out! and a chat. SnugPub is snug [email protected] www.facebook.com/dintys.bar enough to fit anywhere and more affordable than you may think! Made in West Cork “The SnugPub brand is all Call (087) 2374184 or WhatsApp (087) 1375133 about delivering a high quality or email [email protected] product. We combine the finest Booking is essential. weather-treated timber with Renowned for our fish dishes supplied from the local fishing www.snugpub.ie quality workmanship and an fleet – our seafood platter is famous. Our crowd pleasing steak E Q D impeccable service. We take is cooked to perfection & served with all the trimmings. @snugpub @snugpub @snugpubireland 18 September 4 – October 1, 2020 people A flavour of West Cork Last of the summer salads

Now offering a A FLAVOUR OF Treat yourself to a Full Takeaway service WEST CORK & stocking local Artisan Food Products RECIPE Freshly-made Sandwiches, Salads, Karen Austin Cakes, Seafood Dishes, Hot Lunches, Breads, Scones, Coffees & Wines torm Ellen did a superb job of flattening our beans but fortunately Sthe tomato tunnel stood strong and our beautiful tomatoes are still ripening and bursting with flavour. The feasting is endless. – CATERING SERVICE AVAILABLE – Tomatoes with everything! Call 023 8834444 Whilst browsing for tomato Pearse Street, Clonakilty. See E for Daily Specials! ideas I came across a recipe for Panzanella. It was the picture that caught my fancy, as a salad using old bread that was dried then got wet again sounded with a drizzle of olive oil (if • 150mls extra virgin olive oil drizzle in the olive oil whilst New! odd. I checked out a few more you like garlic bread, you will • 50mls vinegar – the best you continuing to whisk until you recipes and realised this idea like this). I spread the bread on have have a creamy emulsion. Stir in HOME had real potential and no better a baking tray, popped it in the • 1 tsp Dijon mustard the sliced onion. chance of success than when oven and ten minutes later it • Salt and black pepper Put the tomatoes and dried DELIVERY surrounded by ripe home was beautifully dry. • Anchovies in oil (optional) bread into a bowl – approx. grown tomatoes. Now is the moment to make • Put the oven on 180ºc 50/50 of each. (Keep any SERVICE Panzanella originates in Italy this recipe. The local tomatoes remaining bread to top other where there are ripe tomatoes are ripe and at their full flavour Method: salads or soup). Chop the basil and dry bread aplenty. These potential; the only time of the Cut the crusts from the slices and add to the bowl, pour over simple ingredients paired with year we can eat such tasty of bread and rub with a cut side the dressing then toss together We are passionate about making the best olive oil and vinegar tomatoes without travelling. of garlic – no need to peel it. until well mixed. Leave aside beer with no compromise, brewing that you can lay your hands on Check out the farmer’s markets Tear the bread into small pieces for ten minutes to let the fla- small batches with big personality. make a stunning salad. and small stores that sell home- (2cm). Put it into a bowl, driz- vours to mingle before serving. Enjoy our beers delivered The first step is to dry out grown vegetables zle over a little olive oil 1-2tbs, We are getting back into the straight to your door! the bread, which proved easier This recipe is well worth the toss well then spread out on swing of things at LKP and said than done. I used thick effort – dry bread and tomatoes a baking tray. Bake for ten eagerly awaiting our awning For ordering and more information please visit our website: slices of sourdough bread as tossed together with olive oil, minutes then check. The bread to provide shelter outside www.clonakiltybrew.ie recommended and spread it out vinegar and basil makes a sub- should be crisp but not brown. the shop. We’re grateful to in a breadbasket and left it in lime combination however odd Dice the tomatoes into all our customers who wait the kitchen to dry. it might sound, a real flavour 1-2cm cubes, sprinkle over a patiently and with such good In the south of Europe where and texture bomb in the mouth. little salt and put them into a humour. We are happy to take these recipes originate, bread Simplicity at its best! sieve or colander and set them pre-orders so that your food bought in the morning is stale over a bowl to catch the juices. is ready for collection without by the evening, hence the pro- Panzanella Leave for 15-20 minutes. queuing – just holler in the liferation of recipes using old Tuscan Tomato and Peel and finely slice the red door and we’ll bring it out. bread but no such luck here. Bread salad onion. Massage in a few grains The menu is on Instagram and Two days later the bread was of salt to separate and soften facebook daily or just phone still perfectly edible and far Ingredients: the onion. Peel the remaining the old-fashioned way and we from dry so I turned the oven • 4 large ripe tomatoes two cloves of garlic and chop will be happy to tell you what Gourmet Food with a Healthy Attitude on for assistance. • 4 thick slices sourdough or very finely. we have. This is our number Salads Savoury Tarts I couldn’t resist rubbing the country bread Put the garlic into a small 023 883698 * bowl together with the Dijon Here’s hoping for an Indian Sweet Tarts and Pastries slices of bread with a cut clove • 3 cloves garlic of garlic before ripping them • 1 small red onion. mustard, vinegar and the juice summer! Pizzas and Lasagne into small pieces and tossing • 1 bunch basil that has run off from the toma- Enchiladas and Veggie Burgers toes. Whisk these together then Soups and Curries * Cakes Tastes Like Home on RTE ONE. Catherine recipes inspired by some of Africa, Vancouver and Tiny Pre-order and Pick-up possible returns to eight incredible cities the places previously visited Township in Canada, San E Q DAILY MENU AVAILABLE ON returning to RTÉ cooking dishes with a passion as well as recipes that were Sebastián and Barcelona in the perfect recipe for this year’s requested by viewers and fans Spain, as well as Dubai and he popular TV series, fifth season of Tastes Like of the show as their ‘taste like Portland, Oregon to capture Tastes Like Home Home with Catherine Fulvio. home’ dishes. The show also eight (eight episodes) individ- with Catherine Fulvio Catherine Fulvio like catches up with some of the ual stories, from contestants Twill return to our screens on everyone else has been unable families that have were visited who refuse to let the physical September 7 for eight delicious to travel abroad due to COVID across the series. distance from home curb their weeks. Sponsored by Belling, 19, so in this new series of Over the fifth series Tastes appetite for home-cooked meal 22 CONNOLLY STREET, CLONAKILTY, WEST CORK Tastes Like Home will air each Tastes Like Home, Catherine Like Home revisits Cape Town that ‘Tastes Like Home’. Tel: 023 8836938 [email protected] www.lettercollum.ie consecutive Monday at 8.30pm creates and cooks brand new and Johannesburg in South September 4 – October 1, 2020 19 Special Feature REMOTE WORKING WEST CORK Enjoy the work, enjoy the lifestyle Employflex leads the flexible work revolution uring lockdown most be comfortable with the technol- of us experienced the ogy and portray your personali- challenges and also ty through your body language. Dthe benefits of remote working. At the other end, the interviewer is open for business. Covid has in fact accelerated us needs to have excellent commu- ten years forward in the space of nication skills and know what to We have an active database a few months removing many of ask and look for in a candidate.” the barriers we thought existed All of the Employflex team are of candidates if you are looking to flexible working solutions also coaches so can help with like working from home. developing these skills. for high quality team members. In 2018 the Grow Remote Karen believes that the future movement estimated that around of flexible working is a hybrid We also offer training and workshops 216,000 people were working type situation, with time spent for remote workers and managers. remotely in Ireland. This is now remotely and in the office. “I an upwardly advancing figure. think it’s a great solution and for Employees are enjoying the anyone in West Cork with con- Contact us to see how we can help time saved in removing the dai- nectivity issues, there are lots ly commute and employers are of hot-desking and co-working you navigate the future of work. reaping the financial benefits, options out there, for example seeing increased productivity the Ludgate in Skibbereen,” she in their workforce and massive says. WWW.EMPLOYFLEX.IE savings on overheads. It’s a Juggling life and work are Tánaiste Simon Coveney and “People who are adapting win-win situation, particularly Employflex CEO Karen O’Reilly. and changing and embracing [email protected] if you live in West Cork and the Pic Darragh Kane remote work with the future in view from your work window mind, they’re the ones who will 087 9722498 now takes in green fields or the survive and thrive.” blue of the Atlantic. It’s also the The recruitment company has office have.” For more information on Em- reason that Karen O’Reilly of over 5,000 candidates registered Developing the right culture ployflex go to employflex.ie. Employflex set up her recruit- with them, all highly skilled, in the workplace will make ment business in Clonakilty five and after a quieter-than-normal everyone feel part of the team, years ago. summer (traditionally it’s the whether they’re working from A qualified accountant who, quietest season anyway for re- home or in the office. “That after returning to Ireland after cruitment), is looking forward to culture needs to be very strong being abroad for nearly 20 a hopefully busy fourth quarter. so that people don’t feel they years, found it difficult to find “All of our plans for 2020 of need to go into the office to be flexible work, Karen has since course came to a grinding halt seen,” explains Karen. been leading the flexible work with Covid,” says Karen “but I However, she points out that revolution. do believe we are seeing some remote working is different to “Remote working gives em- light at the end of the tunnel working in an office envi- ployers access to a larger pool now. Of course it will take a ronment, which means that of talent and can breathe new while for the hardest hit indus- different skills are needed. “You life into small rural commu- tries like hospitality and aviation have to be a quick, independent nities,” she says passionately, to bounce back but there are thinker, organised, self-motivat- Your Local Enterprise Office is having just returned from a two- others like the pharmaceutical ed, with good problem solving week holiday in Allihies where and food-production sectors that skills and able to think on your continuing to support small businesses she also spent time working are doing well. We’ll bounce feet,” she explains. remotely. back; it’s just difficult to gauge In some cases those skills Business Advice Clinics: It’s also a very cost-effective when until the dust settles!” need to be learnt and Employ- These online support clinics are to provide someone with a business idea, a solution for employers. “The av- Employflex has always flex has met this demand by new start-up or an established business general free business advice. One hour erage savings are about 11,000 believed in finding solutions. developing a training module appointment times are available to book from our website. per annum per employee,” “Lockdown has shown that the for both remote workers and Karen points out. “As a result, barriers or the ‘excuses’ that managers of a remote team. Trading Online Voucher: some of the bigger companies companies had prior to Covid, “What’s involved in managing This website grant is to help small businesses to sell online. Funding of 90% are taking a further step and infor example around technology a remote team is something is available up to a maximum of €2,500. This current scheme is open until vesting money saved into office and trust, were never really that I feel a lot of companies the 30.09.2020. To apply for the scheme a client must partake in an online the issue,” says Karen. “We’ve have overlooked,” she says pods for their employees, an information webinar on the scheme. Upcoming September webinars are proven that remote working “and it’s a very different ball action that fosters great loyalty available to book from our website. Eligibility criteria applies for the scheme. in employees.” can be done but now we need game managing a remote team Prior to Covid there was a to get the policy and procedure to an office-based workforce; Online Training: fear that workforce productivity in place, build the scaffolding one where communication and A number of new online training webinars will be launched from September. around the remote work culture motivation are both key.’ would go down if employees Please refer to our website for up to date availability on up-coming training. worked from home. “The ironic so to speak, so that everybody “This is the time for com- thing is,” says Karen “all the is happy. panies to get feedback from studies have shown that people “Companies need to develop staff as to what is working and Cork County Council’s Local Enterprise Offices provide a variety of actually work way harder from a remote work policy,” she what’s not and get their policy business supports to the micro-enterprise sector, please contact us at: home and the main risk is an emphasises “so that employees right.” A: Local Enterprise Office Cork North & West, 8 Kent Street, Clonakilty employee suffering burnout aren’t punished for choosing a Remote interviews are T: 023-8834700 E: [email protected] from working too hard!” flexible or remote working op- another challenge of this new W: www.localenterprise.ie/corknorthandwest While many companies put tion. They should still feel part working climate and one that a freeze on hiring during lock- of a team and have the same Employflex can also help Personal information collected by Cork County Council is done so in order for us to process your down, Employflex is now see- access to promotions and career employers and jobseekers with. 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 in line with our privacy statement ing a pick up in hiring activity. progression that people in the “As the interviewee you have to which is available on our website www.corkcoco.ie 20 September 4 – October 1, 2020 Special Feature REMOTE WORKING WEST CORK Enjoy the work, enjoy the lifestyle Networking solutions for home and Bantry Credit Union ahead business from E-PC of the lockdown in working from home set up

Like so many others, from the remote system,” says Siobhán. “No files or docu- Assistant Manager at ments are allowed leave the Bantry Credit Union office, so all printing by remote Siobhán Geoghegan, workers prints to the office.” For the first couple of weeks, found herself working Siobhán worked at her kitchen from home in Rosscar- table. “That was much too close bery during lockdown. to the fridge,” she laughs, “so as the days went on, I set up a The Dunmanway proper office in a spare room.” native’s role covers She found that this made Do you need help finding the perfect as webcams, headsets, printers and every responsibility for Risk structuring work at lot easier, as setup? Get professional advice locally cable/adaptor you can imagine. she could close the door in the from E-PC Computer Sales and Service in If you are tearing your hair out with your Management, Compli- evening and be done instead of Skibbereen. E-PC has lots of laptops and current computer, e-PC are also experts at ance, AML, Data Pro- facing the temptation to check desktops in stock, from entry level student repairs and speeding up slow laptops. tection and Operations. emails or finish a task. devices to high end workstations. They can Contact Eddie at 028 23769, email “My function is assur- “It was quite an adjustment even build a custom PC just for you, built [email protected] or visit the shop at 68 North at first, as I’m never at home; ance and operational I’m always out or working, but to the exact specification you need. They Street, Skibbereen governance,” she says. Siobhán explains. my dog was delighted…and I also keep lots of peripherals in stock such The other main concerns found that I was more focused “Sounds more boring were technical, communica- as there are less distractions at than it is!” tions and managing work- home!” Aside from getting the loads. However, aside from a separation between work and s Siobhán’s work is few teething problems at the home right and missing the done mostly behind beginning with IT and phones, structure and camaraderie of the scenes and Bantry overall the set-up is working the office, Siobhán found not ACredit Union was ahead of so well that nearly everything being able to visit family and the lockdown in the set up for but the counter and lending can friends or go to gigs the biggest working from home, the transi- now be done remotely. challenge. tion from the office to working “As we went into lockdown And although she didn’t miss remotely was seamless. we had to reorganise our online the daily commute, she really “Our computer capabilities registrations and phone recep- missed Bantry. “I live in the and telesystems were in place tion, as the volume increased countryside, so I missed being two weeks before the lockdown significantly, so we switched able to pop out of the office so the transition was quite those to remote workers to to grab a coffee, or lunch, or smooth, all things considered,” handle the volume and over- having a look around the shops she says. “I did feel quite con- flow. Communication was our in the town.” scious that I could work from priority.” Now back working in the home when others couldn’t,” Check-ins were done with Bantry office, Siobhán says she admits. “But staff members staff, who were given ques- it’s “a new normal”. “We have are above and beyond co-oper- tionnaires to make sure they PPE and extra precautions ative and adaptable in the credit had everything they needed, in place but it’s now become union. We split into three teams like equipment, chairs and so part of the routine to sanitise for succession; should anyone on, and that they were taking frequently and check tempera- be exposed to the virus the proper breaks and lunches. tures every morning. There are other team could step in – we “We split the workloads to aspects from the lockdown that had (1) the sub office counter what could be done remotely improved our practices that we staff in Castletownbere, (2) and changed our opening hours will continue with.” the main office counter staff in and services to reduce pressure In terms of risk assessment, Bantry and (3) all back-office on frontline staff and ensure Siobhán’s advice to business- functions (with the exception of everyone’s safety,” explains es that have staff members the Manager Finbarr) working Siobhán. Everyone signed in working from home is to assess remotely from March 13.” daily on Microsoft Teams so the IT risks, data protection With staff working remote- there was constant communica- risks and health and safety, as ly in Glengarriff, Clonakilty, tion between staff, along with well insurance for staff working Rosscarbery and of course video calls and staff meetings. from home. Bantry, the range of functions There was at least one back-up When she’s not ensuring that that were being done remote- person for each task to take the credit union is maintaining ly for three to four months over or assist. compliance with legislation and included: Accounts; Risk Security risks were assessed best practices and minimising management; Marketing; Credit prior to going remotely so risk exposures, Siobhán can control; Data protection; AML; there was a policy in place for be found on the beach with and Online services. staff to follow. “As the credit her dog or out with friends – “Staying ahead and preempt- union’s system is locked down, restrictions permitting! ing the evolving situation was, no data can be printed or saved and is, a constant concern,” September 4 – October 1, 2020 21 Special Feature REMOTE WORKING WEST CORK Enjoy the work, enjoy the lifestyle Rapid Broadband fully invested in West Cork’s online future Rapid Broadband is a West Cork owned Internet has been able to deal with the rapid surge in traffic on its system: and Phone Service Provider (ISP) that has “The increased demand for been delivering fast, reliable and economical connectivity was met by our broadband in West Cork since 2005. With Mícheál experienced and dedicated customer service team Lynda, broadband Twomey as Managing Director, Rapid Broadband Voytek and Josephine and our has grown into a trusted and established ISP by skilled technicians Andrzej, IN providing the absolute best customer service and Arek, Martin and Ray on the WEST CORK road. We have invested in extra SINCE products available on the market. network capacity to cater for the increase in traffic over our RAPID SPEEDS 2005 network .Ryan our network engineer agrees that “It is imper- ative that our wireless network is able to manage the increased RENOWNED QUALITY CUSTOMER SUPPORT daytime demand as buisnesses, schools and colleges reopen.” All companies have been presented with myriad new challenges in the last six RELIABLE BROADBAND AND TELEPHONE SERVICE months and Rapid Broadband has been no exception. The company has facilitated remote working for its own employ- RAPID BROADBAND LTD OFFERS AN UNPARALLELED ees and allocated more time for installations. It places a QUALITY SERVICE TO OUR CUSTOMERS eople are now more rapidbroadband.ie and we will priority on the health, safety dependent than ever quickly reply as to whether you and wellbeing of its workforce, on their broadband would have coverage.” customers and visitors and is Rapid Broadband LTD. “Pservice,” says Mícheál. “Rapid Mícheál advises that in order fully compliant with all HSE Broadband is working hard to work from home you need physical distancing and safety Tel: 023 8869000 to ensure that when you’re to ensure that your bandwidth guidelines. “We are experienc- working or studying at home, is sufficient to utilise online ing a high demand for installa- www.rapidbroadband.ie your internet connection is not video conferencing applications tions, so please call us as soon a concern. During our present such as Zoom; support a vir- as possible to get your slot,” Covid-19 reality, it is imper- tual private network and send Mícheál advises. “We appreci- ative that we, as broadband important documents securely ate our customer’s cooperation providers, continue to adapt to via email. and understanding and hope meet the changed social and “The Irish Government has that you stay safe during this economic needs.” just announced that schools and challenging time.” Rapid MaxWave Mícheál says people don’t universities should implement Rapid Broadband is trusted have to wait for the Govern- some element of online learning by all its users from multina- ment’s National Broadband in the upcoming academic year. tional corporations to people Home Plus Plan; Rapid Broadband has al- Our Home Extra package is working from home – pro- ready launched superfast broad- the ideal package for studying viding reliable connectivity band in West Cork, and there and learning from home using coupled with swift, person- is still more to come. “West virtual learning environments alised customer support is the BEST FOR Cork can’t wait on the National (VLEs). company’s strength. Broadband Plan, which is still “We would recommend For queries or tech support HD VIDEO STREAMING ACROSS MULTIPLE years away,” he says. our Rapid MaxWave Home contact the Rapid Broadband Rapid Broadband has built Extra package for working and office on 023 8869000. 24hr DEVICES, ON-LINE GAMING, its own independent broadband learning from home. The fast text support is also available on network, which has evolved download and upload speeds 087 1712404. ZOOM MEETINGS and been enhanced over the are ideal for online video-con- past 15 years to cover a large ferencing with applications area of West Cork. It offers like Zoom. You can view all Rapid Download Speed - Up to 30Mb extensive coverage from Cork our residential and business Broadband’s Airport to Cape Clear, Kinsale packages on our website for the €60 PER MONTH to Coppeen, in urban and rural package best suited for your Top Tip: areas alike. family’s needs or please contact Upload Speed - Up to 5Mb “Using fixed wireless tech- us by phone for more advice.” Locate your router nology, we provide broadband As more people work, study where you use the Unlimited Data Allowance** to both urban and rural areas, and connect with loved ones where others can’t,” Mícheál from home during Covid-19, internet most - the Phone Package available for only €4 /month explains. “Drop us an email Mícheál is very pleased at how signal is stronger Add on unlimited Landline to Landline Calls within Ireland & U.K for €5 /month*** with your Eircode to info@ Rapid Broadband’s network near your hub. 22 September 4 – October 1, 2020 Special Feature REMOTE WORKING WEST CORK Enjoy the work, enjoy the lifestyle Amazon allows Lydia to ‘work hard and have fun’ from her home in Ballydehob Remote working is believe that Amazon is all about I get to look out at my own of bed in. the big sellers and/or Amazon. garden/pets/décor and I get to nothing new to Lydia “There are in fact thousands choose the interior design of my What do you do on your daily Little who has been of small businesses or sellers office space. I can wear what breaks? working for multi-na- who sell on Amazon too,” she I want to work – I could wear Our shifts differ to ensure there explains. a bikini or a sleeping bag if I is coverage for the sellers who tional technology com- She particularly enjoys wanted to (I haven’t but I could) are contacting us, and so we pany Amazon from her supporting the small to medium For the family, while I am still have to ‘log in’ to work at our home in Ballydehob businesses that make up the here, and albeit working, there given time and then stick to ‘handmade’ sellers. “Living in is a reassurance for the kids/ the roster schedule for breaks since joining the com- West Cork and having friends my husband, that I am here at (15mins) and lunch (30 mins). pany is 2012. Lydia, who are artisans, I appreciate home for them all. Lost glasses, When you log in you are pretty the skill and time that goes missing shoes, a dog that needs much ‘tied’ to your computer who is also a writer, into handmade products. There a belly rub – I am still here for so I use my breaks to catch up works 20 hours a week is great satisfaction helping a whomever needs me. on house stuff or walk the dogs, in a virtual role in seller and/or get to the bottom grab some lunch/coffee. I might of issue.” Over time Lydia has What do you like best about get in a laundry turn around, Amazon Selling Partner gotten to know some sellers by working from home? fill the dishwasher, hang some Support. name and there is that ‘friendly’ I am working, but am surround- clothes out to dry. It is amazing human side of the job that is not ed by everything I love – house/ what you can fit into a break! ot everyone may be lost despite the huge platform garden/family/pets. If I am on aware that Amazon that is the case with so many a stressful call or handling a Do you have a pet and are founder Jeff Bezos online business. difficult issue for a seller, my they enjoying having you at N(now the ‘richest man in modern With good IT support behind eyes just need to look up and home? history’) started off selling used her, Lydia says the “cold sweat watch a hen pecking in the We have two dogs, a cat and 4 books from his own back garden of panic’ that she experienced in garden, or a dog sleeping in the hens. Even the dogs at this stage shed at home. “I look out at our the early days when something sun. Already I am at ease. I get understand when I sit down at similar space,” says Lydia “and went wrong is now a thing of to spend my breaks with family/ my work station (as opposed to am grateful to the man who had the past. “I used to have a com- pets or if everybody is away at my writing/lap top) that I am the courage to run with a ‘crazy’ plete meltdown if the Internet school/work, I have the house to working and will come in for idea and set up an online busi- dropped, or if I experienced any myself to dance in the kitchen a quiet rub or ear scratch and ness. I am now part of that busi- technical issues and couldn’t with nobody watching me. will tip-toe away again. On my ness too (albeit in a very small log into the secure Amazon days off the air is different and that now more than ever there she shares. way) and love what my job has site. Then there were the family What are the disadvantages/ they sense that, knowing there are roles that can be worked A very petite 5ft 1, Lydia, given me, my family, and our interruptions and household challenges of working from will be a long walk. When I am online and Amazon, among so more than most, finds it difficult community. I also love the idea noises. But I soon learned home? working, it is lovely to look out many others, is embracing that. getting all the angles right for that I work for a massive global that was all in my head,” she For me it is the tech issues. the window and see the hens Lydia’s ‘kit’ involves two her back, elbows and legs. “I organisation from a little corner explains. “There is fab support When broadband drops and/or waddle and scratch about the monitors, a desktop hard drive need a foot rest and fancy-ass of my home in Ballydehob.” through Amazon IT department there are too many users that are garden (they are free range) and and headphones for phone office chair to adjust for my Lydia now helps sellers and of course, they are very un- slowing my systems down. all of pets lounge in the sun and support, which means she does desk height so that I am sitting who ‘sell’ on the Amazon UK derstanding if our network goes If the kids are having an get on well together – there is need a designated workspace straight and comfy.” catalogue. “Sellers need to use down, as it can do a lot in West argument, or the dogs break out great entertainment watching designated workspace. She also While many people make the the platform ‘Amazon Seller Cork. There are many other into a barking frenzy, that can them all. So whatever about finds that having a proper desk mistake of thinking they will be Central’ to sell their goods this associates who ‘have my back’.” be a bit awkard too. But I have them enjoying me being at height and adjustable office fine working from a couch or way and manage their on-line With Covid and everyone learned how to handle those home, I certainly enjoy being at chair really helps. “Amazon bed, Lydia says that after a but Amazon business,” she explains. working from home, interrup- with humour when on a call and home with them. were great from the get-go in a few days of this will result in “I help sellers to resolve any tions are part and parcel of the Sellers are very understanding. If you had the choice would making us aware that we needed bad back, neck/shoulder strain, issues they experience along day-to-day side of working from After-all, they are (mostly)work- you prefer to continue work- headaches etc. the way when navigating Seller home. “Sellers understand if ing from their homes now and ing from home, work in an When you are spending 8 Central.” This support is provid- they hear a dog barking or hen usually have their own family office fulltime, or a mix of hours at a desk it is important ed via chat, phone and email. squawking in the background. experiences too. both. Why? to have the right equipment. The head office for Amazon We hear it too when a seller “Sellers understand if My contract from day one was A lot of people make that Selling Partner Support UK is calls us on their side – machin- Tell the truth…do you work in for working from home so they hear a dog bark- mistake, thinking they will based in Cork airport.“ When ery going in the back ground, your PJs? I ain’t goin nowhere! Occa- ing or hen squawking be fine working from a couch they needed to expand, someone door bells ringing, their dogs No. I think this is a very bad sionally I would go up to head or bed but a few days of this there copped onto the wide going frantic over a squirrel – so in the background. idea. Actually, a great idea as office for a meeting or social will result in bad back, neck/ range of skills and broadband it is the new norm I think of long as they are not the pjs you event but otherwise I am set We hear it too when a shoulder strain, headaches etc. that would be available rurally, working from home.” slept in. What I mean by that, up and will continue to work This doesn’t do you or anyone so they came up with the idea of While she admits to experi- seller calls us on their is that I think it is important to from home. Before COVID else in your household/team any Working From Home as a way encing some loneliness in the side – machinery going have that ‘switch-on’ for work there was the pressure if you favours. While a good chair can of meeting their business and early days, Lydia says she very mode so that we go through the wanted to progress career wise in the back ground, be expensive, it is worth it in the customer needs,” says Lydia. quickly adjusted to having the motion of getting undressed that you would have to work long run.” Following recruitment, 27 banter or craic online through door bells ringing, their from bed to getting dressed for from head office and work full new support staff from all the company’s internal commu- work. Now, this might involve time but that has changed now dogs going frantic over Are there advantages to work- over West Cork, from Leap nication systems. throwing on a tracksuit or simi- since COVID has shown that all a squirrel – so it is the ing from home? to Castletownbere, met at the She also says that wheth- lar, but it is important to go from roles can be worked from home. Absolutely! My commute is eCentre Bantry in September er working from home or new norm I think of bed head to business head! From Training can be given online down stairs and with the click 2012 for six weeks training. “At office-based, Amazon are very a mental health point of view, and upskilling too. That being working from home.” of a mouse my working day the end of the training we went supportive of anyone wanting to for anyone working from home, said, I am very happy with my begins/ends. There is no stress home with our work kit and and progress up the ladder. “I don’t and maybe even working from 20 hours a week allowing me to with getting to/from work. No I haven’t looked back since,” have big career aspirations but their bedroom, it is important be at home for the family and to set up our work space ergo- one steals my lunches/mug, she says. I do know that if I did want to to have that different mind set. also time to write. nomically so we wouldn’t have there is no bitching/gossip at the Lydia is keen to point out progress, the opportunities are So by all means wear your pjs, back or repetitive strain issues,” water cooler. that lots of people mistakenly there for me.” Covid has shown just not the ones you rolled out Continued on next page... September 4 – October 1, 2020 23

Lydia Little ..Cont’d from previous page When working at home it’s easy to What do you like about • Set up your work space so screen. If you don’t have a better for it. school teen series, ‘K-Girls’ and working for this company? that you are sitting comfort- view out a window, make it • Get up from your chair every K-Girls Plus One have been forget to step away Not everyone knows this, but ably and if possible with a a a landscape picture/poster hour or so to stretch and/or optioned for a TV/Film) and I from your computer Jeff Bezos started off selling proper chair/desk etc. even on the wall of your room, walk about. Sitting at your have just finished a crime novel for regular breaks. used books from his own back if this means you have to set looking at this can help rest desk/computer for long peri- that I hope to publish in the next garden shed at home. I look it up and ‘dismantle’ it every your eyes. ods is not good for the mind/ year or so too. My job allows Take a tea break in out at our similar space and am day. Your space for work • Make your workspace just body. me to fit all that in. style with one of grateful to the man who had the should be a work space and Working from home can that – not the same space • If there isn’t one already, try courage to run with a crazy idea not your downtime space too. be lonely sometimes, being a these mugs from used for down time. Even if and set up a work chat group and set up an on-line business. I I know some folk these days writer can be lonely. COVID Chalk & Easel you have to take a few extra for your team/colleagues, am now part of that business too are having to use bedroom has been tough now too, with all minutes to set yourself up so that you can ‘ping’ them in Ballinaspittle. (albeit in a very small way) and and may even be use ironing the restrictions. I have forgotten with moving a table/chair but every so often, share knowl- love what my job has given me, boards. If this works for you how to be social, might even go Berica pion cup make sure it is not the same edge, ask a question if stuck, my family and our community. ok. Jeff Bezos was known for so far as to say I have lost the for when you watch neflix or share a bit of craic. Every- €9.95 and handless There are many of us who have using a door as his desk in art of ‘street side chat’. We have eat your meals. body needs a work buddy to mug €8. been working for Amazon from the early years. Just do what no news to share, no updates. • Get dressed. Change into laugh/cry with. home for years now and our actually works for you that Having had to ‘circle the wag- something else. Even if only money is spent locally, support- doesn’t give you any long ons’ has made me more mindful wear Channel No5 in bed, Tell us a bit about yourself… ing local business and leisure, term pain or depression. of time with family and how put on something for work. As a kid/teen our family came we have enjoyed stay-cations precious the simple pleasures • Your employer, as much as If you have a video meeting, to west Cork for holidays every even before it became a COVID are. It might be just an ‘age and yourself, has a responsibility then maybe you need to wear year and my parents eventually thing(why holiday abroad when stage’ thing too, at 49 years of to ensure your work environ- something work appropriate retired here. I sailed, swam, you live in West Cork eh?) age I appreciate much more the ment is set up in a healthy but otherwise even if it is a played with friends, just as my Amazon’s motto is “Work ‘what I have’ as opposed to the way both from a physical set tracksuit, just make sure it is son is doing now still (work- hard, have fun, make history.” ‘what I want.’ I am very happy up but also mental health. not the one you slept in. This ing it all around COVID these And we do. with my work/life balance. That Talk to your employer if you will help your mind switch days). The pace/quality of life being said, I do miss sharing a are experiencing issues/pain. on for work. Better still to really hasn’t changed I don’t Have you any tips/advice for G&T and music with friends in • People underestimate the im- exercise/shower before hand think after all this time, even other people working from Levis’ bar in Ballydehob. portance of resting your eyes, to really get you work ready. with COVID. home? if you are looking at a screen I get up a bit earlier on my When I want some time for Mental and physical health is so all day. Have something to work days to walk the dogs myself I walk the dogs, read, important when working from look at in the distance when or do some Yoga (very West or write fiction. (the first two home. you lift your eyes from your Cork!). I always feel the books in my Irish boarding High Resolution comes to the rescue of businesses around West Cork

BLACK CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW office set-up and connectivity habits so there’s no waiting ink Cartridge ink Cartridge ink Cartridge ink Cartridge only use only use only use for Private for Private for Private only use there’s nothing stopping peo- on hold to talk to an advisor for Private ple,” Trevor says. “but people who needs your customer and COVERING

Made in Adobe Made in Adobe Made in Adobe Made in Adobe Creativ Cloud Creativ Cloud Creativ Cloud quickly found that working at product codes.” Creativ Cloud Model with Model with Model with Illustrator/ Illustrator/ Illustrator/ Animtion Animtion Animtion Model with with with with their kitchen chairs and tables Distance and order volume ALL OF CORK Illustrator/ After E ects After E ects After E ects Animtion wasn’t good for their back or doesn’t present a problem; with After E ects family mealtimes!” orders can also be delivered PUSH PUSH PUSH PUSH Consequently Trevor has nationwide using a courier seen the demand for good service, whilst online ordering/

BLACK CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW quality office furniture soaring, payment options and a mobile particularly for ergonomic card machine are available for office chairs and desks. High convenience. he High Resolution Resolution has a huge range to Trevor says most people are van has travelled every choose from in their online cat- surprised at how many busi- West Cork highroad alogue (www.highresolution.ie) nesses remained open during Tand byroad over the past six and can also provide everything Lockdown keeping the ‘show months, coming to the rescue from keyboards and monitors to on the road’. Besides the new of businesses and workers who lamps and storage solutions. homes offices, High Resolution suddenly found themselves “I know my catalogue inside also kept pharmacies, food pro- WHEN VALUE IS IMPORTANT AND TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE trying to set up offices at out and what products would be ducers and more, fully stocked their kitchen tables. Panicked most suited to what the custom- with their usual supplies but As a VAN-BASED BUSINESS we supply all your office calls for printers, cartridges, er needs – be it furniture, statio- also with PPE equipment such needs... printers, ink & toner, stationary, visa & till rolls, office furniture and stationery nery or in particular, printers,” as masks, visors, gloves and supplies quickly flooded in and Trevor confirms. “We stock all disinfecting products. “That’s office furniture& equipment and more... to your door owner Trevor Kingston has met the brands but I offer impartial, a side of my business that every request with efficiency clear advice to make sure it’s has definitely grown hugely Full range of PPE and speed. the right printer for the person’s and continues to do so,” says Full range of printer options and cleaning High Resolution has supplied workload. We also supply the Trevor. “We also have a range companies large and small, as printer consumables to match – of temperature checkers from available. Call us for advice. products well as schools and colleges, cartridges, inks, toners, ribbons simple hand held devices up to for over 14 years and in that etc – All delivered to your door. hospital grade devices, starting Browse & order time Trevor has always known “Although I’m a smaller from just €45+VAT. This is from our ONLINE that big businesses can be operation, I have the same something that gives peace found operating from small range as the big operators, often of mind to businesses as they CATALOGUE houses hidden at the end of at keener prices because of my reopen.” lanes. It’s no surprise to him lower overheads. I’ve built See www.highreslution.ie to We’re happy to provide a quote or advice, that remote working is proving up strong relationships with view the catalogue of products call us on 023 8858888 so successful to many more suppliers over the years so I can or call Trevor on 023 8858888 or email [email protected] www.highresolution.ie businesses now. avail of priority ordering. And if you are looking for advice. “As long as they have a good I know my customers ordering 24 September 4 – October 1, 2020 Special Feature REMOTE WORKING WEST CORK Enjoy the work, enjoy the lifestyle

When a global pandemic was announced in March, Global Shares was already fully set up for remote working with a fully flexible workforce. The company’s offices in Clonakilty, Cork city and elsewhere have started to reopen now and a detailed Return To Workplace Plan has been put in place. With the company expanding across all departments, there has never been a Global yet local more exciting time to work at Global Shares. West Cork People finds out more about this forward-thinking and successful employee-owned company, which calls Clonakilty home after taking on the world from there and enjoying huge success since its inception in 2005.

Global Shares is an employ- – nothing would be possible moment. One day we were an ee-owned company. Explain without the people behind it organisation that was 100 per An employee owned com- all, so that is central to who cent office based. The next we pany is where staff are either we are. We also established were fully remote. Working given or offered the option to the ‘Global Cares’ initiative, from home has advantages, buy shares in the company, which is the company’s new sure, but it also has a lot of meaning they have a stake wellbeing programme. It focus- challenges. Even experienced in the future success of the es on employees’ emotional, remote workers are facing company. By owning shares, mental, physical and social new challenges with schools when the company does well, wellbeing and there are huge being closed, as well the employees do well. There’s lots supports in place to support our natural stresses associated with of research that shows when employees, professionally and being in the middle of a global employees own shares, they otherwise. pandemic! But we’ve worked start to behave like owners – We would say that for any- really hard to make sure that they have ‘skin in the game’, one who doesn’t know Global employees are supported as so to speak. They are more Shares but who knows Clon- much as possible. Communi- motivated to work harder and akilty or West Cork in general cation has been critical during work together towards the – Global Shares is almost like a this time. The technology company’s overall goals. microcosm of that. It’s forward took care of itself but the HR Some of the team in Clonakilty Headquarters at the ribbon cutting of the new staff kitchen Statistically, employ- thinking, diverse, vibrant, and management team really last year. ee-owned companies out- friendly and always wants to be stepped up, with a notable perform others in terms of a step ahead. increase in communication, productivity, growth, profit- Probably the best way to sharing helpful information, ability and employee retention. sum up the personality is the being flexible, empathetic. best practices in place in our Employees in Clonakilty come way we can – be it getting all There’s also improved culture company’s core values: Staff have responded really other locations and when the from countries including India, our printing done at Walsh’s, – a ‘we’re all in this together’ • People: We care about our well to that. There have been time came, we were all ready, Philippines, Brazil, Portugal, buying furniture from Tom mentality that really creates a people online mindfulness sessions, educated and a little bit more at Spain, Poland, the UK, Canada Sheehy’s or getting our lunches spark and positive workplace. • Bravery: We dare to do online exercise classes with Ian ease about it. and more. When we made from Beano and Ginger. Clon- Global Shares is a private, things differently O’Driscoll who runs the gym Our offices in Clonakilty, the decision to write a global akilty is central to our commu- independent, significantly • Global: We are one global at Global Shares, counselling is Cork and elsewhere have software platform from scratch, nity and we love being based employee-owned company – network available for anyone who needs started to reopen now and a it was difficult to find devel- here. We have big plans to be meaning a significant propor- • Integrity: We are committed it and there have been socially detailed Return To Workplace opers in Ireland so we hired even more involved in some tion of the company is owned to professional integrity distanced team walks as well. Plan has been put in place developers from all over the exciting projects coming up. by its employees. • Service: We are client fo- As we’ve got two offices in with fever screening cameras, world, who laid the foundation Employee ownership cused. China, we were dealing with 2m distance between desks, for the diverse multi-cultural What kind of support is in is also Global Shares’ core As for what a day in the the fallout from COVID-19 sanitisers, masks and one-way workforce that exists today. It’s place for employees working business. Its fintech solutions office is like – we’re a hugely from the outset. We knew what systems. We are ready to tran- something that everyone really from home? help companies of all sizes diverse company with lots of was happening on the ground sition back to the office when enjoys about working at Global across the world manage their great characters and an appre- over there and our staff in the time is right. Shares. employee share plans simply ciation that playing pool is an Beijing and Hong Kong were From an infrastructure and seamlessly. important way to communicate impacted much earlier than perspective the transition was Does Global Shares offer any and get away from the comput- the rest of the world. But that as easy as getting up from the type of assistance/support to Describe the personality of er screen for a while. Global gave us time to prepare and put desk with your laptop, walking employees relocating to Clon- the company? Shares is a regulated company out the door and logging in at akilty from other countries? During our recent rebrand, so it’s very professional. A home. We’ve got a great IT We have helped many of our Now more than ever we are we actually spent a lot of place where, with hard graft in team to take care of the strict team members move here championing our employee time discussing this topic and the right role, there is no limit security protocols, VPNs, to Clonakilty to join Global wellness initiatives. We have a really examining ourselves and to the opportunities. It’s fast cloud-based hosting and Shares and start a new life in very active wellness pro- establishing who we are as a moving, diverse and massively hardware that protects our data West Cork. We support can- gramme called ‘Global Cares’, company. We wrote our core ambitious. from attack and have weath- didates with flights and visas which we use to support our values and re-wrote our vision A recent senior new joiner ered many storms in the past prior to arrival and then also employees during these diffi- and mission statements. It was in London described it as “an (the Beast from the East snow- support them with accom- cult pandemic times. fantastic to be able to do this in extremely forward-thinking, storm, Storm Ophelia, etc.) modation, transport and local While working from collaboration with our new HR highly motivated, tech and ser- from the safety of our homes information while they find home we’ve enjoyed online Director, Stephen Tabb, to set vice orientated company, with while our business continued their new homes. mindfulness sessions every out what is important to us as great people at its core”. as normal, uninterrupted. Is the company involved in Wednesday (drop everything a company, reset our goals and any local groups or activities? and meditate), free lunchtime work towards achieving them How easy was the transition Is the workforce at Global Explain why this is important HIIT sessions, parenting advice together. What emerged from for employees from working Shares very diverse? What to Global Shares. webinars, nutrition talks, that process is that people are in the office to at home? benefits does that bring with Global Shares has been leadership training, a ‘Work it? involved in many local charity at Home with Your Dog Day’ at the heart of who we are and But for Global Shares em- Aine Bonner and her dog what we do. ployees, and for the rest of the With 25-plus nationalities, fundraisers – from walks to and much more. In addition, Our staff, our clients, our world, life is not normal, or Henry, who is delighted it’s a melting pot of culture swims to golf tournaments all our employees have access partners and our community even very recognisable at the to have her working from and diversity. Forty-two per and more. We love supporting home. cent of employees are female. the local community in any Continued on next page... September 4 – October 1, 2020 25 Special Feature REMOTE WORKING WEST CORK Enjoy the work, enjoy the lifestyle

Global yet local ...Cont’d from previous page to our Employee Assistance banks had failed. rural areas of West Cork don’t working environment. Pool Programme – a confidential Employee numbers have have adequate connectivity, tournaments, ‘Bring your Dog counselling service that pro- risen from 68 in 2015 to 360 which means some staff have to Work’ days, and Friday Nib- vides support to our employees today: 202 staff are based in had to work from the office to bles ‘Fribbles’ are all part of and their families. Cork – 165 at our Clonakilty complete certain tasks that re- our day to day here in Global Headquarters, and 37 at our quire bandwidth. Of course the Shares. Has the pandemic driven any new Cork City office on pandemic will (hopefully!) go other changes/developments Penrose Wharf. away at some stage and we’ll in the company? Global Shares has now fully be returning to our offices, but We thankfully haven’t been completed its transition from a having that flexibility is key. negatively impacted by the small startup in Clonakilty to As well as this, as we grow pandemic in the way that some become a global fintech leader and expand, one of the things industries such has tourism, the for employee ownership and that people who are moving airline industry etc have been. share dealing solutions. We are to Clonakilty have struggled We have been lucky enough on course to reach a ‘unicorn’ with, is the lack of housing in to be in a good place to meet valuation in excess of $1Bn the area. This is something that our targets for this year but of Local Clonakilty girl Dominique Coughlan photographed by 2024. Also, we are 2020 we’d love for the Government course the many restrictions at the official launch of Global Shares’ software platform in Finalists in the prestigious to look at and invest in. that have been in place have 2015 giving a demo to Minister Richard Bruton. EY Entrepreneur of The Year impacted us in one way or Programme and we have some Why would I want to work at another. We had a fabulous exciting announcements com- Global Shares? Clonakilty client event that we Global Shares has grown company to a fintech company. ing very soon. We are a Clonakilty company had to cancel, where clients substantially in the past five We set ourselves a mission: with a global reach. There has were going to come and stay in years. What has driven this build our own software and to What type of Government never been a more exciting Inchydoney, go to Clonakility growth and how is the com- become the global software investment, infrastructure, time to work with Global Distillery for gin-making class- pany planning on developing provider for the share plan connectivity etc. would Shares. We are enjoying huge es, go whale watching, listen further? administration industry. We Global Shares like to see in global success and expanding to trad in DeBarra’s etc – all A decade ago Global Shares had to build it from scratch and West Cork that would benefit across all departments. Career that had to be called off. And was a service only company that was a huge challenge but companies such as them and advancement opportunities are our sales team aren’t current- and this wasn’t a great model it’s what has led to our success increase employment in the many, with the potential for Vipen Kumar Saini moved ly flying all over the world for scaling and growth. We today. We also became regulat- area? professional growth ever pres- to Clonakilty from India in meeting people and selling, so were using other companies’ ed, so this made it possible for Having proper broadband in ent due to our hyper growth 2014 to work for Global there’s more of a lean towards software to manage share plans us to compete with the likes of place for people working from phase. As an employee centric Shares. Below he is pictured digital and virtual events. Our for global businesses, but not Morgan Stanley, Merrill Lynch, home in West Cork is probably organisation we recognise our with his son, Arnav, who AGM will also be held virtual- one of those pieces of software UBS and others on the global the number one thing. With success would not be possi- plays U7 GAA with Clon- ly for the first time ever. was good enough and it wasn’t stage. The challenge was for proper speeds, there are no lim- ble without our talented and a productive way to operate. It Global Shares to succeed in akilty. He enjoys living in a its to what employees can do valuable team of employees. friendly, calm town with his Is having a base in West Cork was then that we made the de- developing a global platform, from home. Some of the more We have a relaxed and friendly wife and their two sons. important to Global Shares? cision to change from a service where the large multi-national Explain. One hundred per cent. Clon- akilty is our home, it’s where Canadian born Colleen 3.5 hours north of Toronto. At different. miss about Canada are mainly She finds her main challenge we were founded in 2005, and the age of 18 she relocated to “I’ve also been involved family…. And a reliable is switching off and walking it’s part of our success. We set McDonagh lives in Toronto to study interior design in a wide range of projects public transit system. Toronto away, even for simple things out to write a global technology Clonakilty and is a Set- before working a variety of fast including the migration of our is brilliant in that way as you like breaks or lunch. “I am platform in West Cork and take tlements and Partner paced roles in design, project banking provider, custodian have your pick of subways, always tempted to log on on the world from here. We ex- Relationship Manager management and administra- changeovers and our new US streetcars, Uber and more.” and get more done and out port 98 per cent of our software tion. License.” Working remotely since of the way before facing into and last year we opened seven with Global Shares. In 2016 Colleen, and her When asked what she enjoys March, Colleen is discovering another day. With the peace new offices in places like Nash- She has been working now husband, decided to most about working in Global there are many advantages and quiet at home I find myself ville, Barcelona, Lisbon, Tokyo remotely since March. move to Ireland and she joined Shares, Colleen says number to it. “My husband is in the forgetting to stop. When I do, and Miyazaki. We’ve done all Global Shares to work on the one has to be her colleagues construction industry so he was it is for house stuff such as of this from Clonakilty and are US Operations team, before whom she describes as “con- only home for the mandatory cleaning, laundry or taking out extremely proud to have our moving to the Reconciliation sistently spectacular!” She also six-week lockdown. Other the recycling. We got chickens roots here. We are delighted to Department and then into her really appreciates the ability to than that I’ve had the place during the lockdown so I also provide employment opportu- current position as Settlements transfer to different depart- to myself, so I work in our go out to collect the eggs. nities for so many locals within and Partner Relationship ments without leaving the open plan kitchen/living room, Doing these little things and our community and to welcome Manager. company. “The work is always which has tons of natural light. having the small day-day jobs so many people to live in Clon- Colleen would describe her challenging and I continue to I am also facing our patio so done has allowed more ‘me’ akilty with their families enjoy role as multi-faceted: “Part of learn and grow every day. I when the sun is shining I’m and ‘us’ time when I do switch the amazing work-life balance. my work in Settlements is to strive for greatness!” able to leave the door wide off, which has provided a little As it has grown, Global oversee and ensure all cash She also thoroughly enjoys open; it somewhat feels like more work-life balance. Shares has given a huge boost and shares settle as instructed living in West Cork. “Moving I’m working outside or I can “And I do miss the social as- to the local economy, creating on the back of a trade, share to Clonakilty from a place like also just step outside for some pect of working in the office.” permanent high-skilled roles transfer, or client event. Toronto was a huge change – sun while the kettle boils. I did Going forward Colleen such as software engineers, “The busier side of the role in every way! There is a sense have to go into the office to get thinks she would enjoy a mix share plan analysts, trading is the Partner Management of community that provides my computer chair though – of working from home and specialists, multi-lingual ser- where my responsibilities in- a feeling of security and sitting on a dining room chair going into the office. “I think clude new partner onboarding, support that a big city could was not great! there are huge benefits for most vice desk analysts and more, as riginally from Ontario, developing key relationships never offer. Before the current “Other benefits are a quiet people who can work from well as given staff the opportu- Colleen grew up in with all partners, client account situation there was always so working environment, no dress home from a cost and environ- nity to transfer within its global what, by Canadian openings etc. The position many events happening around code and that by not com- mental perspective – for both network of overseas offices. Ostandards, would be consid- allows me to work closely Clonakilty and West Cork that muting I’m saving money on employee and employer!” ered the small town of North with most departments across we enjoyed like parades, festi- diesel and contributing little Bay (pop. 60k), which lies the business and every day is vals and markets. The things I less pollution.” 26 September 4 – October 1, 2020 Special Feature REMOTE WORKING WEST CORK Enjoy the work, enjoy the lifestyle Working from home: A new normal sprung up in the region, it offers cable) and by changing the dis- people already have access to one another wirelessly within well for email, social media and space to work remotely, with a play settings on your computer. these cloud services, if using @ the home or workplace. These browsing the web. A 4G connec- proper internet connectivity and This option is standard on most gmail, @hotmail, @live or @ wireless radio waves are usually tion is preferable for uninter- without the pressures that can Windows and Apple operating outlook email addresses. Google transmitted via a modem/router rupted video calling and video come with working at home. systems. A few years ago, I Drive (linked to gmail) and in your home to your device, streaming. If using this option, What is happening there is purchased a second monitor Microsoft OneDrive (linked to approximately within range of be careful of data usage limits. inspirational; the new Google for to extend my display: the HP the other email types mentioned) the home or workplace itself. Even ‘unlimited data’ is subject Education schools’ initiative un- Pavillion 22xi for around €100. each offer 15 gigabytes (GB) The unit of measurement for to fair usage policy and can be der the direction of Castlehaven There are loads of screens/moni- free storage. This is the capacity the speed at which you down- expensive if you exceed the data native, Dr. Kieran Collins, looks tors to choose from at higher and to store around five thousand load from the internet or upload limit. SIM Only plans, which promising. lower prices. Most modern TV photos or two million Word to the internet is megabits per are 30-day rolling contracts, are Coronavirus or not, our sets are HDMI-compatible and documents. This free storage second (Mbps). Most people can excellent value for money. Eir, increasing dependence on would work as a second screen is, essentially, an enticement to get their work done with about among other providers, offer Pat Culhane is a technology to live and work, is customers unlimited calls to any inevitable. If in doubt, have a network, SMS and data from Senior Learning and look at the work of Professor €10 per month. It’s tempting to Development Manager, Séamus Davis (originally from get a fancy smartphone as part of writer and researcher. Skibbereen) in UCC on quantum a contract, but it ends up being computers. Also, climate change far more expensive over the two He is currently com- will increasingly impact on how years at around €60-plus per pleting a Doctor of we live. Our carbon emissions month. You will make significant Management degree and consumption of imported savings if you can afford to buy goods will need to reduce. This the smartphone upfront and opt (part-time). He has will result in less travel and for a SIM Only plan. This is es- recently relocated with more of a return to local self-suf- pecially the case if you have two ficiency and sustainability, as mobile numbers – a personal his family from Dub- prompted by our response to number and a work number. For lin to West Cork. For Covid-19. The interdependence those that do, consider purchas- more, see patculhane.ie between people and technol- ing an unlocked Dual Sim smart- ogy for supporting our health, phone online. This allows you n March, I had to make the how we communicate, how we to have two sim cards or mobile sudden shift from work- learn (e.g. how to grow your numbers active at the same time ing in a busy, city centre own food) and how we work is on the one handset. You can turn Ioffice to working from home. becoming the new normal. And either of the numbers off at any This transition was a relative- with demand for work and living stage and the other will continue ly smooth one for me. I have space in cities already oversub- to operate as normal. always engaged with the latest scribed, working from the home technology developments and and remotely are here to stay. What follows are some useful Timesavers how they can facilitate enhanced Here are a few shortcuts that tips, that may make your home too. For those who happen to subscribe to enhanced storage 20 Mbps. A 2 Mbps download work practices. Getting to grips could save some time when or remote working a little more have a newer Apple Mac and capacity and features, such as and upload speed will work for with working from home was using your computer: productive and enjoyable. Stu- iPad, Sidecar is a free, wireless Microsoft 365 and Google G email, social media and audio not as straightforward for many, • Copy and Paste: Press and dents might find them helpful, as extended display feature. Other Suite, which many employers conference calls on one device especially those who are not hold the Control button (Ctrl) they too are moving to blended wired and wireless extended do. This can be more secure than at a time. Video calling apps comfortable with technology. and the letter C button to copy learning. Note that some of the displays can be facilitated by storing all your files and folders like Microsoft Teams and Zoom According to UNESCO’s selected text or images. Ctrl descriptions are basic, to cater some third-party apps, such as on your computer/tablet/smart- only use about 5Mbs down- Digital Literacy Global Frame- and V to paste the copied text for varying levels of knowledge. Duet Display. phone hard drive only, especially load speed. For uploading and work (2018), “digital literacy or images; Ctrl and P button in the case of a device being downloading large files such as is the ability to access, manage, to print. The equivalent of Ctrl stolen, damaged or hacked. Also, videos, download speeds of 10 understand, integrate, communi- on Apple devices is cmd Ctrl Extended Display The Cloud you can save your work (e.g. Mbps should suffice. For those cate, evaluate and create infor- A lot of time can be spent Terms such the cloud, cloud and V to paste the copied text a PowerPoint presentation) on who have multiple people work- mation safely and appropriately switching between email, doc- computing, and cloud storage or images. one device and access and edit it ing from the one premises or through digital technologies.” uments, webpages etc. on your have become part of the vernac- • Open a new document: Ctrl again on another device. people using streaming services The government’s Future Jobs computer screen – especially ular. So, what is this thing called and N (e.g. Word, Excel, at the same time, a download Ireland 2019 visionary document when you’d prefer to have two ‘the cloud’? Basically, the cloud PowerPoint etc.) speed of at least 25 Mbps would highlights the importance of or more open simultaneously. is the internet; it’s all of the • Keyword search: If trying to Broadband, Wi-Fi and be preferable. One free service digital literacy for sustaining Of course, you could print one things you can access remotely find a word in a document or that I find useful to upload and meaningful employment and of the documents (expensive) over the internet. When some- Mobile Data a webpage, press Ctrl and F; I have often found that people share files of up to 2 GB is entrepreneurship. Moreover, or split the screen, if it is big thing is in the cloud, it means it’s type the words in the textbox – even those with basic digital WeTransfer.com. A good way of those that are digitally illiterate enough. Or you could extend stored on internet servers instead that appears, and press enter. literacy – get confused about the testing your broadband speed is cannot access basic services and your display. of your computer’s hard drive, The words will be highlighted difference between broadband, via broadbandspeedtest.ie. information, which impacts neg- Extended display means i.e., your actual computer. Think on the page. Wi-Fi and mobile data connec- Mobile data is also known atively on their quality of life. connecting another screen or of how your email works and • To keep records of a meeting, tivity. And if you are relying on as the mobile internet and is Of course, access to appropriate monitor to your computer. Your how it can be accessed and used Zoom offers an automated an internet connection to do your provided by your mobile phone technology and infrastructure computer interprets both screens from any number of devices, transcription service as part of work, especially from home, service provider. It requires a (e.g. broadband) is half the as separate devices. You can anywhere with an internet their business plans. An audio then it’s important to know the SIM card. If you have mobile battle. drag items with your on-screen connection. The same applies to file can be uploaded (private- difference. service, you can use mobile data En masse, West Cork appears arrow from one screen to the your contacts, documents, files, ly, if you like) via YouTube Broadband is high-speed on the go. Much of West Cork to be embracing the challenges other, for example, a Word doc- folders, photos, videos and more. Studio. Unlike Zoom, this is internet access that is always on, has a healthy 3G connection and opportunities of digital ument on one screen and your How many times have you free but with less transcription unlike its predecessor, dial-up. and you can often get 4G in the living. The shining example is email on the other. I find it use- heard something like, “I lost accuracy. It would be import- It is usually fed through a wired larger towns. the realising of Lord Puttnam’s ful when presenting or editing all my numbers as my phone ant to ensure that this would connection, like the old landline As access to broadband can be – an exceptional advocate for a document during a video call, broke”? There is increasingly be done is participant consent telephones, to the home or patchy, many people are using digital literacy – vision for the i.e., people’s faces on one screen less of an excuse for that these and is in line with relevant workplace. Although, it can be their smartphones for hotspot- Ludgate Hub. It is a mechanism and the shared document on my days. There’s a variety of free data protection policies and via satellite too. Wi-Fi allows ting, i.e., diverting the mobile for sustaining the Skibbereen second screen. cloud storage services available GDPR. computers, tablets, smartphones, data signal to their tablet or com- community and its hinterland. The second screen is usually to backup and store your stuff. or other devices to connect to the puter. 3G will generally work Like the other hubs that have connected via a wire (HDMI Without knowing it, many internet or communicate with September 4 – October 1, 2020 27 Special Feature REMOTE WORKING WEST CORK Enjoy the work, enjoy the lifestyle

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ig Man Tiny Homes space used by day and a kids is a West Cork based, chill-out sofa and TV area for sustainably driven, the evening. This size unit Bconstruction company that starts at €27,000, including the makes cost-effective, ener- base and electrics, and arrives gy-efficient, beautiful, tiny (and in ‘turnkey’ condition – all you not so tiny) homes, offices and need to do is move your com- studios. At the start of 2020, puter in! If you are on a tighter modular homes were the bulk budget the 8sqm option starts of the company’s order books. at €12,000 and is suitable for a However, since March, it has small office. seen demand for garden offices Unlike many companies, rocket. with Big Man Tiny Homes your Owner JP Simpson under- entire unit is constructed in its stands why: “My own partner Bandon workshop before being is now working from home craned into position in your and although we haven’t garden, which takes about two kids thrown into the mix, the hours so you aren’t disturbed computer and books are out the by workmen for weeks on end. whole time so we’re going to All in all the turnaround time is build one for ourselves shortly. just three weeks. There’s something about leav- If you would like to see some ing the house through a front or more floorplans for inspiration back door that psychologically required to achieve this. “A selves…Big Man Tiny Homes visit www.bigmantinyhomes.ie. prepares you for work.” recent project that we worked structures are made with insu- JP also invites enquiries from You don’t need planning on had a very steep garden with lated super strong SIP panels companies seeking quotes for permission to put a 25sqm little usable space. The house and are A rated energy efficient multiple units. building in your back garden was at the top of the slope so and airtight. These panels are but you do need to have an ad- we installed the office at the clad in cedar, Siberian larch or ditional 25sqm of garden space bottom and connected the metal, depending on required Clockwise from top left: A remaining once it is in. You can house to the office roof with finish. The electrical package fully finished unit is craned then go up to 3m with a flat decking, with steps then down includes interior and exterior into place; A unit is cus- roof or 4m with an A-pitch or to the office door; it tripled the LED spotlights and radiant tom built to fit an awkward mono-pitch roof. size of usable garden space! underfloor heating. garden space; A suggested “It is important that your “We installed another garden These buildings are made to floorplan for multi-use. office enhances your garden office at a house with an ugly last because they are built to promises. tion area and treatment room; space; they can be quite big concreted back garden. Now housing codes. All structures The units are 100 per cent or with storage if you also need buildings so they need to add the office is surrounded with have a 20-year guarantee, customised to a customer’s space for bikes or garden tools. to your garden, not take away decking, planters and a gazebo whilst the roofs and cladding preference for features, mate- JP is finding that the most from it,” advises JP, who can area with a fire-pit.” have a 25 year guarantee. rials and layout; you can have popular size is 17sqm be- also do all the hard landscaping As for the offices them- “They are lifetime job,” JP a home office with a bathroom cause it is big enough to be and kitchenette; with a recep- multi-functional, with office 28 September 4 – October 1, 2020 Special Feature REMOTE WORKING WEST CORK Enjoy the work, enjoy the lifestyle

Remote working has become a feature of life during the pandemic but working from home isn’t always the best option for everyone with access to Ludgate continues connectivity and other amenities posing challenges for many remote workers. While coworking spaces took a hit during lockdown, digital hubs such as the to facilitate jobs in Ludgate in Skibbereen, which boasts a gigabite broadband connection, have an important role to play in the future of flexible working in Ireland. Hubs such as Ludgate act as a stimulus in rural regions such as West Cork where West Cork it allows local economies to prosper and thrive. Since its inception five years ago, Ludgate has been able to support 25 businesses and approx 130 direct and indirect roles from a myriad of industries including tech, bio-economy, aviation services, and media production. It has become a magnet for startups such as local success story Spearline, who now employs over 100 people in the region.

kibbereen native Gráinne provider of support services O’Keeffe, who took to aircraft lessors, airlines and up the role of CEO at private aviation, acquired an SLudgate in July, believes that office at Ludgate in 2019. Fi- this is a pivotal moment in nance Director and Skibbereen the history and evolution of native Áine Scully says that the Skibbereen’s digital hub, which Ludgate Hub has offered great has has been recognised as networking opportunities to an ‘exemplar project’ by the the company, as well as giving European Commission. access to an exceptional pool of While obviously Covid has talent. “The Ludgate’s IT infra- had a devastating impact on structure is exceptional, which everybody’s life,” says Gráinne is crucial to our business… “it has propelled forward by a Being present in West Cork decade that discussion on the has also allowed us to snap future of work. up some extremely talented, “We know that efforts have hard-working individuals who been made in the past to get have proven to be instrumental people working remotely but to Six West’s success.” these were very tentative, with TravelMaster, a licensed Ludgate CEO big questions around trust and nationwide concert travel bus connectivity. Gráinne O’Keeffe and coach service, has a cus- “If we look at Ludgate’s evo- tomer service team of six based lution over the past five years, out of Ludgate. CEO Damian Ludgate Board Members with President Higgins. Pic Emma Jervis it has already offered people the Ludgate is theirs,” she explains. Long says that Ludgate helped opportunity to experiment with In the past, there might have him move from being a very that model. been a perception that Ludgate traditional bus company to a “Now is the time that was just for technology-based fully-digitised and award-win- Ludgate can rise up and be a companies but Ludgate is for ning enterprise. “We learnt very part of that workplace solution. everybody,” she emphasis- quickly, “ says Damian “and in Whether it’s a large enterprise, es. “There’s no reason why a short timeframe had moved a scaling up company, or indi- someone in farming and food from a desk to an office space.” viduals, we feel the offering at production who markets their Ludgate provided the connec- Ludgate satisfies those different work through digital channels tivity and technological support channels,” she explains. shouldn’t feel at home there. that Damian needed to get his On course to facilitate 500 “We know that people company off to a very suc- jobs in West Cork over the who work out of coworking cessful start. In their first year next five years with the full spaces tend to thrive because TravelMaster transported 4000 support and involvement of the of the sense of community concertgoers, last year that local community, the Ludgate found within such spaces, the number had jumped to 40,000 ‘movement’ has become the the flexibility, the potential for and prior to Covid the 2020 model for rural Ireland’s future. innovation, ideation, learning projection was 70,000. Describ- Now with Gráinne O’Keeffe and collaboration, the oppor- ing his business as the ‘Uber’ at the helm, bringing over over tunity to build strong personal of the bus industry, Damian 20 years of international finan- and professional relationships, says that while the company cial and innovation experience and the spaces’ focus on great has been ‘torpedoed’ by Covid, to the position, the continued design and wellbeing. he’s taking it in his stride and development of Skibbereen’s “Ultimately, we would love focusing on the positive. ‘it’s digital hub is in good hands. to see successes similar to what given us the time to focus on Ludgaters - TravelMaster (Winner of Best Business 2019), The Ludgate Hub (Best Not for Gráinne has a very clear Kevin Buckley and Matt Law- building our technology,” he Profit Organisation 2019) & Six West (Most Innovative/Unique Business 2019). vision, which sees Ludgate, lor have achieved at Spearline, explains “we hope to release currently a social enterprise, where they have outgrown one of the most advanced apps moving to a model that allows their original home over the in the industry in Europe by the (Ludgate 1.5) will be located in The major part of this November 2020. ‘We’re very for self-sustainability with the Credit Union and have moved end of 2021.” what was the Roycroft bicycle expansion will be the opening excited about Ludgate II, where community at the epicenter of to their own fabulous building, As part of Ludgate’s Loca- shop in Field’s carpark. The of Ludgate II, with capacity for we will also have space for its success. “We need to create a renovated St Fachtnas De La tion Strategy going forward, seven single or double occu- over 100 people, by Summer an innovational educational revenue opportunities, while Salle Secondary School.,” says plans for expansion include pancy private office spaces will 2021. It’s hoped that the refur- outreach unit for second and also ensuring that everybody Gráinne. creating two new bases in be available before the end of bishment of the Mercy Heights third level students,” says in the community feels that Six West, a world-leading Skibbereen; the first of which September. building will commence in Continued on next page... September 4 – October 1, 2020 29 Special Feature REMOTE WORKING WEST CORK Enjoy the work, enjoy the lifestyle

The Ludgate ...Cont’d from previous page

Anne Philips, formerly of HSBC and Adam Walsh of JJ Field as well as John Field and Join us at Ludgate! Sean O’Driscoll who were the original founders. Lord David SUPERFAST Puttnam has also been heavily 1GB FIBRE involved in supporting and pro- BROADBAND moting the work at Ludgate. John Field and Sean O’Driscoll, who have been STATE OF there from the very beginning, RANGE OF THE ART CISCO are the cornerstones of it all,” INFORMAL & VIDEO says Gráinne. “Both men FORMAL MEETING CONFERENCING want to make sure that West AREAS Grainne. “There is also a lot managed by the Ludgate, with Cork has a local economy that of land around the building so Dr Kieran Collins at the helm, prospers and thrives where hopefully in the future we will the pilot programme aims to people don’t have to leave to With 1Gb superfast fibre be able to leverage our outside develop 21st century educa- find work.” broadband connection – space.” tional skills across primary and Gráinne herself symbolises there is no where A new Study Space at secondary schools, providing a what Ludgate set out to achieve Ludgate I (The Old Bakery) range of online tools to support better in West Cork – the return to her home town is also in the pipeline for this and revolutionise teaching in to base your in rural Ireland which can now September, to accommodate terms of access and sharing of workday! offer career opportunities and third level students, who won’t resources. “This could change Three desk options... resources on a par with any- be attending lectures fulltime in and accelerate the digital litera- where else in the country. Hot desks €20/day the current Covid climate. cy of children in primary school “We settled in Clonakilty Full day desk | free tea & coffee all day! “We know that many and secondary schools and be a after coming home as, at the students potentially won’t be blueprint for other areas,” says Community Membership €180/mo time, I thought Skibbereen was needing accommodation in the Gráinne. 10 passes a month to use the hub too far west to offer us any job city for 2020/2021 because of “Our Board is one of our key opportunities. Ironically, it’s Co-working Membership €240/mo schedules incorporating some success factors and includes 24/7 own fob access at your own convenience where most of my jobs have days on campus and some many of the Who’s Who across – own desk & meeting room use been based since coming back,” All prices ex VAT remotely so for anyone with Irish national corporate influ- she says laughing. connectivity issues at home, encers,” she says. The board “Ludgate is an international Skibbereen Town Centre this study space will be ideal members include Kevin Buck- success story in terms of mod- 087 1904174 | [email protected] for them,” explains Gráinne, ley of Spearline, Oliver Farrell elling how remote working, www.ludgate.ie who hopes this will also foster of Vilicom Engineering, Dee with high-speed broadband a loyalty towards Ludgate in Forbes of RTÉ, Ronan Harris connectivity, can support the graduates and future entrepre- of Google, Brian McCarthy of With 1Gb connection – All you creation and migration of neurs. Fexco, John O’Doherty of AIB, need for the new college experience high-value businesses and jobs Studyspace Ludgate has also recent- Anne O’Leary of Vodafone to any location…and I’m very €12/day Dedicated Desk Mon-Fri 8.30am - 6pm Packages Available ly rolled out a Google for Ireland, Rosaleen Blair, CBE excited to be a part of that and Contact Elma at [email protected] #BackedbyAIB Education programme in West former CEO of AMS, Profes- it’s future evolution.” Cork schools. Financed and sor John O’Halloran of UCC, Six West continues to offer its world-class support services to the aviation industry

ix West is a world-lead- West joined the Ludgate com- basis.” closures brought about by All Six West employees have ing provider of support munity in 2018, initially renting Áine says that having a base Covid-19, the team has had to been given laptops and two services to aircraft hot desks but with the rapid in West Cork is extremely find innovative ways to operate screens for maximum comfort Slessors, airlines and private expansion of the company, important to Six West. “Being ferries in parts of the world while working from home and aviation. Working alongside its acquiring an office at the hub present in West Cork has that essentially were closed to the company has always been clients to safely manage their in 2019. “The Ludgate Hub is allowed us to snap up some ex- foreign nationals and airlines. supportive of flexible working aircraft during lease transitions, a prime location for start-ups, tremely talented, hard-working Their ability to think out of the hours, especially for anyone deliveries, demonstrations, and established businesses, artists, individuals who have proven to box was indeed put to the test. with care-giving responsibil- distressed recovery operations, and creatives to work from, be instrumental to Six West’s “With regards to private ities. the company has offices in so it was a natural (and easy) success. On the flipside, Six aviation, this mode of transpor- “The health and well-being Skibbereen, Dublin, Malta, choice for Six West to establish West has given our Skibbereen tation is predicted to increase of all Six West employees Hong Kong and the Cayman itself there,” explains Áine. employees the opportunity to in popularity and we expect to is absolutely critical,” says Islands. Six West’s office in She also emphasises the great work in their hometown, there- benefit from that too.” Áine. “Everyone’s personal Skibbereen is run out of the networking opportunities that by avoiding long commutes or The nature of the company circumstances are unique, and Ludgate Digital Hub. being based at the Ludgate has having to permanently move to lends itself to remote working we are happy to support all Skibbereen native Áine Áine Scully brought about. “The location, find quality employment.” so it is business as usual for the our employees as they find Scully says it was a blessing premises and services offered While this is obviously finance team and the wider Six their own equilibrium in this to find such quality work in at the Ludgate Hub are first a challenging time for the West team. “We performed a new reality. Additionally, the Skibbereen with Six West. Áine strange, due to the impact of class… and the Ludgate’s IT aviation industry, Six West has company-wide, two-day stress Six West management team is joined the company in May Covid-19, it’s been very much infrastructure is exceptional, been extremely fortunate in that test before the legal limitations being as transparent as possible 2017 as Finance Director and business as usual for Six West. which is crucial to our business, the company’s flight operations came into force, giving us an to ease any worries staff may it has been full systems go for A young, dynamic company as we communicate with other department has remained active excellent opportunity to see if have during this period.” her since then. And although that is at the forefront of global parts of the world via confer- throughout the pandemic. Áine any issues would arise from the past few months have been aviation support services, Six ence or video calls on a daily explains: “Due to the border working remotely,” says Áine. 30 September 4 – October 1, 2020 Special Feature REMOTE WORKING WEST CORK Enjoy the work, enjoy the lifestyle Dunmanway’s Brookpark connects local business with the rest of the world Brookpark Enterprise Centre in Dunmanway has really come into its own normalised remote working so that companies no longer feel this year, providing a professional environment and connectivity to compa- they are ‘taking a gamble’ on nies and independent workers in a rural area. With office spaces now fully someone who isn’t working in booked by eight tenants, and many more availing of hot desking, confer- the office.” The organising committee encing and training facilities, Committee Chairperson and Centre Manager was also delighted to recently Peter Walsh is proud of the support the Centre provides to the local economy, welcome Dunmanway busi- especially in these difficult and uncertain times. nesswoman Mary Ross of CiCi boutique in Clonakilty, who is now running the online support nstalling 1GB broadband ronment at home, so we set up Thomas moved to Dunmanway and dispatch unit for her web- speed at the building stage remote offices here. Dunman- town from Dublin six years and site www.dressesonline.ie from was a game changer for the way isn’t far from our plant and initially worked from his spare the Centre. Iviability of this project, explains its a very central location, on bedroom. On the birth of his Whilst there is a waiting list Peter. “From day one fibre optic good roads, for our employees second child, that room became for the office suites (you may broadband has attracted the to travel to. otherwise occupied and the still add your name for upcom- attention of companies limited “The Centre’s management house became much busier so, ing vacancies), companies large by poor connectivity in their has been fantastic; Peter quickly “I was practically knocking on and small can take advantage current location. Now that installed blinds, sanitisers, extra the windows as the Centre was of the large hot-desking suite, companies are forced to look at fridges…everything we need- being finished,” he says. “It’s where there is plenty of space remote working options, that is ed… and organised pin code great as it’s only five minutes for privacy and social distanc- proving to be one of the open access so our security needs from my house so I can pop ing, although due to Covid-19 secrets of our success.” were met. At times the rest of back home anytime and because guidelines it is important that One such company is the our home-based staff need to I have my own key, I can go interested parties contact Peter Carbery Group, whose non-es- come in for meetings, or we to work anytime, 24 hours a first to discuss their needs. sential employees have been conduct training by Zoom, so day, which is great when I’m Other benefits not already working remotely since March the meeting room facilities are working dealing with people mentioned include ample exter- in order to create more space also used. in different timezones or with nal parking, 4G coverage avail- for production workers at the “It’s a lovely environment to horrific deadlines! able on most mobile networks, company’s Ballineen plant. work in and we have the can- “From Brookpark I’ve an internal lift in the Enterprise Some staff, from the IT, Fi- teen or can walk up to the town worked on many projects – at Suites, and finally the backup nance and Admin Departments, centre at lunchtime.” one stage I was managing support of the Brookpark Enter- re-located to two office units in One of the founding tenants a team of animators, which prise Centre Committee and the Brookpark and the arrangement of the Centre, Thomas Gray, included people in the Phil- Local Enterprise Office. is working extremely well says is an animator who creates ippines, Dublin and Chicago, Contact Peter Walsh on 087 Office Manager Fiona O’Leary: children’s cartoons for TV. which just shows what can 2676411 or the centre Manager Thomas Gray is an animator “Some of our team members He also finds the professional be achieved online. I think I on 086 4410484 or email brook- based in Brookpark. don’t have sufficient broadband environment and fast broadband was ahead of the curve and [email protected]. or a quiet enough working envi- speeds essential to his work. this pandemic has actually Earn up to €25 per hour by teaching English online ince the start of the lifted, you can teach English “I decided to teach English never been so buzzing. It is a If you’d like to try teaching Covid-19 pandemic, so abroad through the Institute’s abroad in 2014. My first desti- great chance for students to English as a foreign language, much has changed in the many other partnerships. nation was sunny Malta, where buckle down and really focus the TEFL Institute of Ireland Sway people across the world Estimates suggest that ap- I taught at a school in Malta’s on improving their English. offers the chance for people work, with millions discover- proximately 1.5 billion people busiest region, Sliema. As time “Online teaching is fantastic from the ages of 17 upwards to ing the benefits of being able worldwide study English. It is, went on I built relationships because you can be anywhere in become fully qualified with a to work remotely. Many Irish by a long distance, the world’s with students who, once they the world and make money – it reputable and trusted accredited people are now keen to seize most commonly studied lan- had finished their schooling, is freedom. Salaries vary from provider. With so many provid- job opportunities that will allow guage and approximately 375 asked me to continue giving company to company. What ers offering different options, them to continue to earn money million people speak it as their them lessons via Skype. At the happens with most is that you making the right choice can from the comfort of their own second language. As global con- time, teaching English online build your way up to a bigger seem hard but the TEFL Insti- home – something that TEFL nectivity grows exponentially, wasn’t that big and at first it pay scale. The more lessons you tute has over 20 years experi- (Teaching English as a Foreign so too does the world’s appetite seemed strange to me but I did give, the more your “rating” ence and will make the process Language) certification offers. for learning our language. The end up teaching several students goes up and so on and so forth. as simple as possible. Traditionally, people studied advantages of speaking English online. This is why it is so important to The TEFL Institute of Ireland for a TEFL qualification with have become even more “Eventually I realised I could deliver the best lessons possible is the only Irish-based provider an eye on travelling the world, apparent during Coronavirus earn a much bigger salary doing – you will be rewarded. to offer the Government Regu- something that isn’t possible and demand for native English Skype lessons full-time. That Kate Popova “Don’t let life pass you by lated 180-Hour Level 5 TEFL right now. But did you know speakers has risen by 80 per was my a-ha moment! Since without enjoying it. In my course - RQF: 601/5234/5, that the TEFL Institute of cent since March! then, I’ve worked with numer- ities. At the moment, I am main- opinion, it is very difficult to which is the equivalent of a Ireland has partnerships with English teacher Kate Popova ous online employers and I have ly focusing on teaching adults have a boring day at work when CELTA (Certificate in English online platforms where, as a from Cork started her own gone on to start my own small with a particular focus on Exam you are an online teacher. You Language Teaching to Adults) teacher, you could earn up to small business teaching English online teaching business. English (IELTS and TOEIC always leave work with at least course. €25 per hour? And of course, through Skype and highly rec- “Through the years, I have exams). With COVID-19 the one exciting, funny, or interest- Visit www.tefl.ie or call 01 when travel restrictions are ommends it as a career: taught all ages and all national- online teaching market has ing story to tell!” 5563038 to find out more. September 4 – October 1, 2020 31 Special Feature REMOTE WORKING WEST CORK Enjoy the work, enjoy the lifestyle

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Clinics Skibbereen | Douglas | Kinsale Tel 087 958 2362 www.eoinroechiropractic.com 32 September 4 – October 1, 2020 Special Feature REMOTE WORKING WEST CORK Enjoy the work, enjoy the lifestyle Decrease work stress with forest therapy o far 2020 has been Therapy is rapidly spreading our natural state, which is why it Providing Forest challenging and stressful worldwide due to its incredible feels so good.” Bathing Walks and for us all in some way. health benefits. It has been Lisa offers forest bathing SHowever, Lisa Curran says scientifically proven to decrease experiences for both public and Forest Therapy Retreats that a common reflection she anxiety, stress levels and lower corporate bookings in Glengar- amongst the magnificent has heard from people post lock- blood pressure while boosting riff Nature Reserve through all ancient oak forest in down is their appreciation and our immune system and increas- seasons. She also offers one-day Glengarriff Nature heightened awareness of nature ing our creative, mental and forest therapy stress manage- Reserve, West Cork. in their life, be it a garden, pub- physical energy. ment workshops and six-week lic park, coastline or woodland. As a certified Forest Therapist forest therapy interventions Take a magical journey through the serene landscape Lisa was supposed to launch and Forest Bathing Practitioner designed to support people with and experience the forest as never before. her own Forest Bathing business Lisa has seen the transforma- specific needs. She is available in March, just as Covid hit and tional power of nature therapy for private group bookings and th everything came to a standstill. many times. “The difference in work events in West Cork and NEXT WALK 20 September “Thankfully, since the restric- people’s energy and mood after beyond. to celebrate the Autumn Equinox tions have lifted, I can slowly spending two and half hours on To contact Lisa or for more begin again, but things are to look after our mental health, a guided forest therapy expe- information on Forest Bathing Booking Essential Tel: 085 7838202 different,” she says. empower ourselves and increase rience is incredible,” she says. and Forest Therapy check out Email: [email protected] “I am very grateful to live in our overall wellbeing as much “The insights people receive her website Glengarrifffores- the forest in Glengarriff, where as we can. Spending time in the from the forest are truly wonder- therapy.ie I guide my Forest Bathing forest does exactly this. Forest ful; after all, being in nature is Experiences, so my situation is the same. For some in this new work from home scenario, finding a proper balance between work and personal life may have become more difficult as both of these worlds have now collided. Working from home can present some unexpected stresses.” According to Lisa, now, more than ever, it is so important to glengarriffforesttherapy.ie give ourselves restorative time,

Overcoming home office challenges moving from there to sitting in time: forward, which will help you placing it on top of a secure front of another screen i.e. the - Every time you answer a maintain the natural curves in shelf made from blocks of play station or TV, it would be a call get up and walk around your back. You will therefore wood. If you are working with good idea to change this habit. whilst on the call. be able to sit straight with much a laptop screen, height is more The good news is you can - Put printers or other things less effort. If you sit on a seat difficult. The problem with mitigate the effects of sitting that you need access to away that is too low, you will have to laptops is if you raise the screen with moderate exercise. One of from your desk use a lot of muscular effort to the keyboard goes with it; the the benefits of working from - Set up to take your Zoom sit upright. That is a battle you best solution to this is to get home is that you should be able calls whilst you are standing might win for 30 minutes but a separate keyboard so that to find the time to add exercise - Perhaps the simplest – set you will not be able to sustain you can raise the laptop to eye into your daily routine, as you an alarm and walk to the kitch- for the day. level and have the keyboard at no longer have to commute. en to get a glass of water every Obviously the ideal is to have a more relaxed height where Eoin Roe For most people walking will hour. a seat that has an adjustable your wrists are lower than your provide enough exercise. Aim I know that everyone’s height; if you don’t have an elbows when typing. Chiropractic for 40-60mins per day of walk- situation is different but hope- adjustable seat, just use a The last thing to say is that ing at a good pace, preferably fully I have got you thinking cushion, pillow, rolled-up towel if you are finding yourself up and down hills. If you just about ways you can increase or anything to raise your bum tightening up in your shoulders ffice ergonomics in the don’t like walking then running, the amount of activity you are up and get a slope down to neck or back then something is home is now something swimming, cycling, dancing doing whilst still being able to your knees. You can buy wedge wrong and your posture may be increase the amount of calories that many more people or any other physical activity get the work done. cushions that will do this for aggravating this – take it as a you burn. Standing desks are Ohave to consider. The most is fine as long as it makes you Secondly a good seating po- you; they are normally either clue to look at what you are do- becoming very common and important thing to be aware of breath a bit heavier and gets sition will reduce the amount of eight or 11 degree wedges. If ing, make some simple changes also, even more interesting, in this situation explains chiro- your heart rate up and you do effort it takes to sit up straight you are trying to convert a flat and see if this goes away. If it desks that can be adjusted from practor Eoin Roe, is that sitting it daily. and reduce pain and discomfort. chair, like a dining chair, eight doesn’t, then seek help. In my sitting to standing for different all the time is not very good Interestingly a Stanford study A seat with a good back, degree wedges are usually fine; experience poor posture is rare- tasks. If you have the space for us. Getting up and moving in 2004 found that walking screen at eye height and a key 11 degree wedges are good ly the cause of a problem but and think that working from around is far more important increased creativity both during board just below elbow level for the car where the seat may will definitely aggravate one, so home will be a more permanent than what you are sitting on and and shortly afterwards (Opezzo are important so you may find it already be tilted backwards. If if you have an underlying neck situation for you then making has a huge influence on your & Shwatz, 2004). So going for a challenging if you are trying to doing this means that your feet or low back issue, getting them an investment into the right overall health. walk before work or taking calls work at the dinner table. can’t touch the floor then you resolved will make posture less equipment will pay off. I find I don’t want to scare you whilst walking may actually By far the most important will need to find something to of an issue. that many people leave this de- but sitting has been associated improve your problem solving thing to get right is seat height. rest them on, this can be any- If you would like an appoint- cision too late and end up with a not only with cardiovascular ability and make you more I would encourage you to use thing but needs to be solid, for ment please call 087 9582362; standing desk because they are mortality risk but also mortality productive. a seat height where your knees example something like a block I am available in Skibbereen at already suffering with back or from all other causes (Stamat- Some other strategies that are slightly below the level of of timber. Market Street Clinic. neck pain. akis et al, 2019). So if you find may help you reduce the time your hips and your feet are on Third most important is Here are some ideas that will yourself sitting in front of a sitting are to invent reasons to the floor. This will have the screen height. A desktop screen help you to reduce your sitting computer for work and then get up. Just by standing you will effect of tilting your pelvis can be raised to eye level by September 4 – October 1, 2020 33 Special Feature REMOTE WORKING WEST CORK Enjoy the work, enjoy the lifestyle

in some areas. We are all aware Open Out eliminating connectivity of the many challenges faced in bridging the digital divide between urban and rural Ire- blackspots in West Cork land. If nothing else, the current COVID-19 crisis has taught us n recent months West Cork need for reliable broadband Walsh explains: “Our objective ally. To this end the company that digital infrastructure, in our based OpenOut Ltd has services grows – for remote is to find a solution to our cus- has entered into a partnership businesses, educational settings received a surge in enqui- working, learning, online ex- tomers connectivity challenges. with Digital Business Ireland, and at home must be robust Iries resulting from increased ams and tutorials – so too does OpenOut operates a ‘No Fix No a newly formed representative enough to meet the challenges numbers of employees and the demand for Open Out’s fee’ policy and consultations body to support Ireland’s digital of the future. We look forward businesses working remote- services. are free of charge.” economy. to working with OpenOut to ly. The issue of connectivity OpenOut began by mainly Following many requests Lorraine Higgins, Chief achieve this and to ensure that has never been more crucial, installing mobile phone boost- OpenOut is now also offering Executive of Digital Business each and every business has the particularly in rural areas where ers/repeaters in rural houses but a Mobile Broadband and Wifi Ireland said: “We are delighted capacity to fully realise their broadband and phone services has now extended this service package where traditional to team up with OpenOut to digital potential.” are often unreliable, or unable to commercial customers; broadband is not available. help rural businesses who are If you need to improve your to cope with the demands of you can now choose from a Currently based in West finding it difficult to avail of mobile phone or broadband our new digital world. OpenOut variety of boosters to match Cork, OpenOut is working on all the possibilities that going connectivity, Contact Peter on was established in early 2019 your circumstances. As Sales plans to offer its services to online presents because of the 023 8845599 or email inbox@ to ‘bridge the gap’ and, as the Director of OpenOut, Peter homes and businesses nation- lack of effective connectivity openout.ie.

spend standing as your strength ic chair. Comfort, alignment grows. The easy adjuster on and proper posture are just as Strike a balance for all day comfort Donworth’s desk allows you important when we are sitting to switch positions quickly and as when we are standing. t is well documented that and decrease brain function. in Cork can help. With the healthy blood flow and fight simply. You get the most out of a sitting at your desk all day For a while now experts have touch of a lever, a sit-stand desk fatigue while standing. A good tip is to add a layer sit-stand desk not by standing is bad for your health with been advising people to stand allows you to switch between Rome was not built in a day. of cushioning with a floor mat, all the time, but by striking the Iexcessive sitting linked to heart for 15 minutes an hour but new seated and standing positions When you start using your new which will encourage subtle right balance between sitting disease, high blood pressure, an research shows that people while you work. desk, slowly build up your time leg movements that work your and standing. increased risk for diabetes and should actually be standing for The sit-stand desk can help spent standing. Stand for short muscles and improve the body’s Call Donworth Office Inte- chronic back, neck and shoulder at least 30 minutes per hour to you maintain good posture and periods in the beginning to blood flow. riors on 021 431 8890 or visit pain. Studies have even found get the health benefits. proper ergonomic alignment build up tolerance in your legs, Finally, a sit-stand desk www.donworthofficeinteriors. that too many hours spent sit- This is where a sit-stand desk with your workspace to help back, neck, arms and core, then becomes even more beneficial com ting can increase memory loss from Donworth Office Interiors prevent back pain, ensure slowly increase the time you when paired with an ergonom-

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Leo MAST Stool: ALL NETWORKS TRI-BAND GSM/3G/4G €130 MOBILE SIGNAL BOOSTER LEGAL & COMREG COMPLIANT Visit our showrooms just a few minutes from Cork Airport or five minutes from Kinsale roundabout off the link Rd. DONWORTH OFFICE INTERIORS Celia House, Forge Hill, Cork, Ireland Call us on 021 431 8890 Email : [email protected] donworthofficeinteriors.com Web: www.openout.ie E-mail: [email protected] 34 September 4 – October 1, 2020 Special Feature REMOTE WORKING WEST CORK Enjoy the work, enjoy the lifestyle Dynamic technology company sees demand grow during Covid

Established in 1991, Gi established its EMEA Human Resources EMEA at Cork is such a fantastic place nationalities working in the base in Clonakilty in PGi explains how more than to live that we find people stay team in Clonakilty. “From PGi began with a October 2001, with 60,000 enterprises worldwide with us and they really value the perspective of inclusivity, simple goal: Empower Pthe support of IDA Ireland. trust PGi and its GlobalMeet the work-life balance that we have always worked hard people and businesses Clonakilty serves as a shared product suite to deliver high working in the area affords to create an environment to connect and collab- services centre incorporating a quality virtual events and ev- them.” where everyone feels able to number of functions to support eryday communications. “Our Over the years the team participate and achieve their orate. The company the global organisation. The products are built to use on in Clonakilty has proven potential,” she explains. provides organisations Clonakilty office employs 200 every device in every corner of themselves to be critical to PGi has gained customers with secure, profes- people in; customer care, IT / the world, and every year more the success of the company. during the pandemic, which Operations, finance and compli- than 330 million workers use “We can go up against any has resulted in a record de- sional technology that ance, sales, marketing, product GlobalMeet to drive produc- other location in the world and mand for all its collaboration inspires and connects management and HR. tivity and communication,” demonstrate the value of the solutions; particularly video audiences worldwide. Earlier this year, PGi started she says. site,” says Brita passionately. and webcam functionality, as building out a new customer Brita explains that what at- By its very nature, PGi is a organisations looked to substi- Through its cloud- support team in Clonakilty, as tracted the company initially to very dynamic company, con- tute the face-to-face meeting based and feature-rich part of a shared services ven- Clonakilty was the availability Brita O’Connor, Director, tinuing to change and evolve with an alternative. video conferencing and ture with a company based in of skilled and educated talent Human Resources EMEA in response to the needs of its To support the demand, North America. The company webcast technology, in the area. “Having third level at PGi customers and the changes in PGi brought on board circa 20 has already hired 50 people institutions such as UCC and technology. “People who work additional temporary resources PGi empowers virtual and will be filling more roles CIT close by means that there Cork airport with internation- with PGi are customer-fo- in Clonakilty. events that enable the between now and the end of is always a pool of highly cused, innovators and great “Six months ago, organi- 2020. al connectivity is also a key future of work. qualified talent to draw from,” attraction of the location. West team players,” says Brita. Brita O’Connor, Director, she says. “The proximity to There are over 12 different Continued on next page...

systems, so essentially, any look after my family and have years working out of the office One of the many benefits to FAS course in 2003/2004, she server or services that internal to find time early in the day in Clonakilty, she does miss working at PGi is the flexibil- secured employment at PGi. employees need, for example to do the school work, while the daily face-to-face contact ity of the company. “My job When she’s not working, email, phones, files services concentration levels were still with her colleagues. “Because doesn’t involve anything cus- Michelle enjoys spending time and lots more. fresh,” she says. “It meant that I’ve worked for PGi for such tomer facing so I’m very lucky with her family. She also vol- The Clonakilty native, who my working day was dragging a long time, I know almost to have the flexibility to work unteers in the local Camogie, lives in Kilbrittain with her out too late in the evening. I everyone and I have made a lot later in the evening or earlier in GAA and Scouting organisa- husband Ger and three children was glad when that ended!” of friends throughout the years, the morning if I need time off tions, all of which her children Ciara (14), Cathal (12) and Now however, with the kids so I do miss the office chats. during the day,” says Michelle. are members of. Cillian (8) is partly responsi- back at school, Michelle has However, we do have instant “I also work with a great team Michelle’s advice to anyone ble for providing the means time to take a proper break! messaging, which we use quite and my boss, Lowell, is really working from home is to treat for users at PGi to work from “With the kids at home over a lot as an organisation, so that understanding.” the morning routine like you home. She says that while ho- the summer, my breaks were helps!” Prior to working at PGi, are going to work. “So get meschooling during lockdown spent sorting their meals and The opportunity to work Michelle started off in the dressed, brush the teeth or proved a challenge, she found hanging out the washing! I’ll from home may also now Technology Park in Clonakilty hair, make a cup of tea as it that she very much enjoys the never again complain about allow for a family dog, which in 1999 for a company that aids concentration and keep flexibility that working from making a packed lunch in the Michelle has always felt closed in 2002. She went on to structure to the day.” home allows and would like to mornings!” she says laughing. wasn’t fair with the family out work in the office of the late She also recommends orporate IT Manager continue to do so. “It helps me “I love being here for the of the house all day. Mr. Joe Walsh for a year while having a quiet workspace, a Michelle Callaghan to be a little more organised!” kids when they need me and “Needless to say, the kids he was serving as Minister comfortable chair and a clean has been working at she explains no commute means less fuel have been putting the pressure for Agriculture, then O’Leary desk. “Every little bit helps CPGi for 16 years. Her role in- “It was so difficult trying to consumption.” on over the past few months!” Insurances in Clonakilty and when working from home!” volves looking after corporate work my eight-hour day and The downside is that after 16 she says. after upskilling through a September 4 – October 1, 2020 35 Special Feature REMOTE WORKING WEST CORK Enjoy the work, enjoy the lifestyle

PGi ...Cont’d from previous page sations were largely support- PGi utilises its own audio, brought. them as they adapted to their band Plan is going to be crucial ing the office-based worker. web conferencing and web- “Being a technology compa- new working environment. to facilitate people working Right now, it is primarily casting solutions. The company and specialising specifically “Communication is massive- remotely in West Cork in the the @ Home worker,” says ny’s audio and web conferenc- in the kind of collaboration ly important when everyone longer term. Brita. “So where the office ing solutions are perfect for technology that everyone is cannot be in one place,” she “High speed broadband is had everything you needed one to ones, interviews, team now dependent on was a big emphasises “so we are very critical. That was one of the to support your collaboration meetings, project meetings, advantage for us,” says Brita. regularly reaching out and unknowns when everyone requirements (huddle rooms, etc, while its webcast solution “Our teams were very com- making sure everyone knows moved to remote working video endpoints, fast internet allows tens of thousands of fortable with the technology so who to reach out to if they initially – would they have the connections), the @ Home people to join the same call communicating with customers have any concerns whether connectivity to continue to be worker has a laptop, a mobile for meetings such as important and colleagues virtually was that be related to work, health able to do their jobs. Fortu- greenway from Clonakilty to phone, and possibly some company announcements, or not a massive leap.” or otherwise during this time.” nately, the vast majority of our support employees when they consumer technology like an investor updates. The company made sure All of PGi’s current va- team have adequate broadband go back to the office. Amazon Echo or Apple TV. As a communications com- that employees had everything cancies can be found on our for business continuity during So supporting both office and pany, PGi was able to adapt they needed at home and then website www.pgi.com the pandemic but longer term. consumer technology is now very quickly to the changed invited regular feedback from Brita says the roll out of the An added bonus she says important.” environment that lockdown teams to continue to support government’s National Broad- would be the completion of the

home,” says Mark. “In a lot of While he does miss the leaving one place of work commute. People are getting Currently living with his office jobs, there is no need for social aspect of the office, and returning to home, so he a better work-life satisfaction parents in Kildare, his hobbies employees to be go to an office meeting with his colleagues in sometimes takes a quick walk and offices can reduce their include Latin dancing and five days a week. I am winning person, PGi provides Collabo- after his shift is over to let the size and so on. staying active with short runs back more time in my day for ration tools so employees make mind re-adjust. Mark loves the connection and hill walking. In West Cork, the other parts of my life and I use of that and meet for 15 Mark has a dedicated office with people from different he was part of the triathlon can enjoy a little extra comfort minutes daily to see faces and room at his parent’s home walks of life that PGi fosters. club in Clonakilty for a couple that home provides.” run through daily operations. and says the one thing he “At PGi we help people of years and enjoyed the sea Mark started at PGi in June “Things are still quite social really relishes about working around the world connect. I swims, something he doesn’t 2016, in Care team tier 1 level with chat and talking online from home is the view out the enjoy speaking with custom- have in Kildare! providing support to customers but it helps to be physically window! ers from different countries: While he’d love to take using the company’s automat- next to someone,” he explains. One of the main challenges Someone from Saudi Arabia in advantage of working from ed service while also running “Taking a cup of coffee with at the beginning of lockdown the morning and another from home by adding a puppy to the high level conference calls as a colleague is an easy way to was working with poor Internet New York in the afternoon. family, mum and and dad will an operator. After two years de-stress something that might connection but that issue has Our organisation is not too big have to be on board! “Hint- he progressed to a technical be happening in work. When since been resolved; Mark was either, I can have an impact hint,” he says laughing. support role. “Day-to-day, I someone is physically next to lucky enough to get upgraded and the right idea is always Like so many others work- resolve technical issues for you, you connect more at a to a fiber connection. encouraged. Our customer care ing from home, the advice ildare native Mark our users,” he explains. “We human level.” His feeling is that a hybrid follows the sun, which means from Mark is “a correct office O’Quigley is a Senior contact users to make sure we Marks role is very structured type situation, part working the wheel keeps on turning, standard chair is essential.” He Support Technician at understand the circumstances so he has to present for certain from home, part in the office, which is cool when you think also advises making an effort KPGi. He is currently working of their issue and then we duties at certain points in the is the ideal work solution. about it.” to go out for a quick walk to for the company from his investigate in our systems if day. “I think this has made my “There is a little bit of a logis- Mark moved to West Cork stretch your legs and if you’re parent’s home in Kildare. He necessary.” The role requires work from home structured tical effort to having a mix but from Kildare and before that on your own in the house, “try says the main advantage to demonstrating empathy with and has contributed to the ini- it is well worth it,” he says. “It he lived in Paris. He admits to to pop down to the shop for working from home for him users and making sure they are tial and sustainable success,” means that you are increasing a passion for the French cul- your lunch if you can.” is work-life satisfaction. “Ev- happy with the overall service. he says. your employee candidate pool ture, way of life and language. eryone has their circumstances Technical knowledge and ana- He also believes there since those further away will “I am happy that I was able to and reasons for working from lytical skills are important too. is something to be said for not be daunted by a five-day use my French in West Cork.”

Enjoy the sound of seagulls as well as high speed connectivity at Bantry’s new remote hub he Grow Remote Bantry Chapter has recently launched time, despite connectivity issues in the area, Amazon trialed Remote doing great work. Eir upgraded their offering and Imagine came on Bantry Bayworks – a brand new, purpose-built remote hub, Working down this direction. This worked out for them and it was an the scene.” in the heart of Bantry. Located over the new SuperValu eye-opener.” Around Christmas time last year, the Chapter was approved for a Tsupermarket, overlooking the inner harbour in Bantry town, the very Neill made contact with Tracey Keogh and Rose Barrett, grant and Peter Coppinger, Teamwork Cork came on board; this was natural setting that the space enjoys encapsulates the remote working co-founders of the Grow Remote movement and registered the the final impetus to setting up a Hub. Local businesses then came on culture in West Cork. Bantry Chapter. board with more finance. The Grow Remote movement is dedicated to transforming the After attending a number of events at the Ludgate Digital Hub Although businesses have had to find a way of dealing with Covid working landscape of Ireland by encouraging and enabling more in Skibbereen, it was obvious to him that large companies were and most recently dreadful flooding in the town, the spirit of Bantry people to work remotely. prepared to consider the concept and in fact were already making it is, as always, innovative and forward thinking. The not-for-profit group started in 2018 when a group of work. “Big things are planned for the future in Bantry, so hopefully the like-minded individuals who wanted to see change in our communi- He started looking for the right premises and after speaking with whole country will be able to get back to some form of normality ties got together in a WhatsApp group. Jim O’Keeffe of SuperValu in Bantry, the current space over Super- soon,” says Neill. That first year, Bantry Chamber President and retired business per- Valu was identified. Bantry Bayworks has 10 socially distant workspaces, fully com- son Neill Clarke got wind of the movement and attended the Grow In July 2019, a committee formed to drive the project forward: pliant with Covid-19 safety measures. For as little as €10 for four Remote inaugural conference in Tralee. “I saw the enthusiasm and Neill was joined by Gillean Guy, Kathryn Kingston, Eleanor Macri, hours (or €20 for a 12-hour day) you get dedicated desk; entry code the interest by companies in the whole concept. I thought it might Cathriona Tobin, Tara Seawright, Michelle O’Keeffe, and Florence for access throughout the day; super-fast Wi-Fi; and use of a meeting be a way of Bantry having an entry path to the IT scene, which I felt Newman. room (pre-booking required). was crucial for the town’s development,” he explains. “In the meantime there was a big change in the Broadband provi- To book call Bantry Bayworks on 083-027 7474 or email bantry- “Our major problem at this stage was slow broadband speed, so sion in the town and surrounds,” explains Neill, which guaranteed [email protected]. I started registering Bantry with all of the providers. During this the success of the project. “Digital Forge was the local provider and 36 September 4 – October 1, 2020 Special Feature REMOTE WORKING WEST CORK Enjoy the work, enjoy the lifestyle Making new connections stage in my life. I would have solace during these challenging with what we have. I guide all States, Iraq, Norway, Scotland Online mindfulness medita- thought that I didn’t possess times. I was surprised at the very my classes from the same spot and the UK. This, to me, is one tion sessions via Zoom continue the technological expertise or real connection I felt, across and seem to have created a little of the huge benefits and some- on Monday, Wednesday and equipment. I would also have physical distance and from the grounding ritual to precede each times it is quite moving to reflect Friday evenings at 8pm. Do- assumed that online work would comfort of my own living room. class, whether as teacher or par- on the fact that we are all sitting nation-based, these 45-minute lack that strong connection with This experience, plus my firm ticipant! I sit facing a window, in our homes in various towns, drop-in sessions are a great way others that I normally feel during belief in compassion-based which I think really helps your villages, parishes, counties or to cultivate our ability to pay face-to-face, in-person, inter- mindfulness meant that I had a eyes when facing a screen. Your countries, yet all sharing the attention to the present moment, actions. One way or another, I deep urge to share what I have eyes can shift from the screen to same online space. Even though keep up a steady mindfulness am convinced that I would have learned with others, to help us all the window now and then, which we are miles apart, we are con- practice and provide a way of talked myself out of it. But when move through each phase of this creates a feeling of open space, necting in a very genuine way. connecting in with others in a Covid-19 entered the picture, pandemic. as well as space in the mind. When I began these sessions friendly and supportive environ- everything changed, and I made On March 30, I opened I make a hot drink and show in March, I had not planned ment. MENTAL HEALTH the move online, as much for my a Zoom account and began up early to my seat, giving too far ahead, and I am both I am currently taking expres- & MINDFULNESS own wellbeing, as to continue offering free, guided meditations myself some time to arrive surprised and delighted that they sions of interest for an eight- my professional mindfulness three evenings per week. People both physically and mentally, are still running, as we make week Mindfulness Based Living Susan O’Regan practice. showed up, from my mailing by making myself warm and the transition now from summer Course (MBLC) this autumn. Because I teach mindfulness list initially – people who comfortable and simply allowing to autumn. They have a sense This will be a morning class, as a means of making a living, have participated in courses or myself a few minutes to take a of familiarity about them now based in Baltimore. Susan O’Regan teaches meditation already had its place workshops with me, who would few breaths, grounding myself and a real sense of community Regular nature and forest mindfulness and self-compas- in my daily routine, so when we already be familiar with my in my body before the session or even across the miles. They have bathing at Glebe Gardens pro- sion courses and workshops locked down in March, mindful- method of guiding meditations, meeting begins. I light a candle provided a structure and routine vide a safe opportunity outdoors throughout West Cork. ness meditation was something but then word spread through and sometimes drink my tea just to the week at a time when so to slow down and connect with For more information contact: familiar that I practised for word-of-mouth. People began watching the glow from it. many things have changed quite ourselves though nature. Each susanoreganmindfulness@ steadiness of mind and to help dropping in on evenings that It is important for your body, dramatically for all of us. two hour experience costs €30 gmail.com Mob: 087 2700572. manage the array of unsettling suited them. The groups have as well as your vocal cords, to Setting up a routine is so per person. Group bookings are emotions that I was feeling. This ranged in size from three or four remain well hydrated so I would important for wellbeing and now welcome. helped my hugely. However, I people up to 17 or 18. At first, it always have some water close is the time to put a few things in Look out for ‘ReTreat Your- s more and more of us still found myself wanting to felt a little strange, getting used by too. The sessions I run last place for the autumn to keep us self’ in Baltimore on Saturday, are asked to make the connect with others, who were, to this new way of being seen about 45 minutes, so a break is well. I would encourage every- September 12, a day of rest and move online for either no doubt, experiencing similar and seeing others on screen, but not necessary, but if you are in- body to give an online class a nourishment at the lovely Glebe Awork, education or to take care emotions. So, because we could the shared experience, energy volved in longer sessions be sure shot. There are many to choose Gardens, including mindfulness, of our wellbeing, it may be a not meet anyone in person at that and commitment of participants, to take regular breaks. Taking from. If you are not sure how to yoga, essential oils, nature and good time to have a look at some time, I went online. all of whom were impacted by some time for some fresh air and get set up online, for example forest bathing, nutritious food of the benefits, along with the I turned initially to my Covid-19, helped me and others a walk or stretch before and/or on Zoom, ask a teenage relative and drinks. fears and anxieties that many training organisation, to hear the to keep going. after online sessions is also ben- or friend to help set you up and Please get in touch directly for of us experience about going familiar voices of my teachers at I am fortunate in that having eficial, as is balancing our time. practice a little beforehand. It more information on any of the online. Based on my own expe- the Mindfulness Association. I just one other person in my It is important not to ‘overdo’ the isn’t perfect and most certainly above. rience and observations, I will attended their daily meditations house and my little dog; it was time we spend online. does not replace the wonderful Email: susanoreganmindful- share some tips on how to stay on Zoom regularly, as well as fine for me to set myself up in a People drop into my sessions reality of meeting people in [email protected] or Tel: 087 well while working, studying or several teacher training sessions relatively quiet space to work. I from all over Cork and West person, but the feeling of support 2700572 www.mindhaven.ie taking part in a class remotely. and online retreats over the am aware that this may be more Cork, as well as several other and community that can be I never imagined myself guid- summer, all of which provid- difficult for some, but I think counties. We have even had peo- cultivated online continues to ing meditations online at any ed me with great support and we can still do the best we can ple coming and going from the amaze me!

Zooming in on the perfect attire think this describes exactly how need to look like that has a mas- working day. While you may not comfortable sweatpants can most of us are right now and the sive effect on the psyche; it’s a dress up as much as before be- be and is a challenge. Push people who look like they have bit like ‘shitting on your own cause most days you might not yourself, drag yourself kicking it all together are bluffing. doorstep’ – you just can’t avoid see anybody, sitting at your desk and screaming to your wardrobe One thing for sure is that life feeling like crap or stepping in at home well groomed should be and continually remind yourself goes on and the key to navigat- it. So how anyone can conduct like a daily ritual. You just never that staying in that deliciously ing it successfully is to be adapt- a business call and perform at know when a zoom request will comfortable ‘grunge’ look will able. We have most likely surfed their level best while wearing come in! For those of you who lead to an unproductive mindset choppy waters at different stages a top covered in pancake batter don’t know – Zoom is essential- and could possibly swap you for is called Enclothed Cognition in our lives but the longevity of splatters and a pair of leggings ly a group Facetime that is a bit a ‘glass half full’ to ‘no glass at and it examines how clothing in- this uncertainty and sometimes with a hole in them with mis- more corporate and complicated all’ type of person. The routine fluences our psychological state weekly new restrictions is prov- matched fleece socks thrown in to set up. The last thing that and discipline of going through and is the main reason why I do IMAGE ing to be unsettling; meanwhile (just to tip you over the edge) you want is to look like you a series of things before work what I do. Louise O’Dwyer ‘normal’ daily challenges need is beyond me. Obviously the spent a few months stranded every morning has been proven Not everyone has an ‘office’ to be overcome. No matter what person at the other end of the on a desert island, dishevelled to get the brain ready to focus; room in their house so lock- Image Consultant the day is going to fling or fire phone is blissfully unaware of ‘castaway-ish’ when the person it is ritualistic almost. Profes- down would have nudged a lot at you, make an effort in your what you are wearing or maybe on screen is used to seeing you sionally dressing up raises your of people into getting creative appearance. Don’t think for one has never even met you but the stylish and well-manicured. opinion of yourself and your and making space where they guess we are all well aware second that I haven’t spent days confidence you get from looking Obviously the dress code actions (work-wise) will rise to could. It’s always best to choose of the fact that ‘things’ have looking like someone who fell and then feeling your best is for any online visual interac- the occasion whereas staying a space that has good light, as changed; for how long or out of a ditch after polishing most definitely translated over tion is less formal than what in yesterday’s sloppy clothes we all want to look our absolute Iforever is yet to be decided. off a bottle of a vodka – I most the phone. With more and more is required for work, other leaves you with the headspace best online. You need to take Chatting to a friend online the definitely have and it is soul-de- people working from home, than an interview, but it still that you are not up to anything the background or wall colour other day, I said “We will all stroying. You just feel all wrong there is a need to re-organise requires thought and planning. mentally or professionally into account when choosing be lucky to come out of this and anything and everything your ‘work wardrobe’ and it Despite the fact that Zoom is challenging. This will reflect in your colour palette for the day. with our sanity intact” and she can get you down. Looking like is essential that you ‘step into usually filmed from the waist your work ethic. Believe it or responded with “What sanity?” I hell and knowing that you don’t them’ for the duration of your up, having to venture out of not the ‘science’ of all of this Continued on next page... September 4 – October 1, 2020 37 Special Feature REMOTE WORKING WEST CORK Enjoy the work, enjoy the lifestyle

Image...Cont’d from previous page ing a conscious effort to remain Whatever is ahead of us, we are else be patient and kind – not cling on to each other and laugh While black is a great ‘go-to’ them, YOU ARE! focused and, most importantly, all in this together; the uncer- everyone is coping as well as and cry at the same time. professional colour, sitting at I saw a lot of bright red you will be subconsciously tainty, the distance, the fear, the they may appear to be. Here’s to home at a desk, would black be foreheads that you could have reminding yourself that you are waiting, the sanitising and the the day that we can HUG again, your colour of choice? A splash toasted marshmallows on; the still at work…just in a different weather. Be patient, above all may it come soon so that we can of colour is always wonderful screen seemed to accentuate it! setting. If you want to appear and uplifting and if you choose In future, be prepared – either authoritative, competent and your best shade then your entire wear enough sun block, wear a trustworthy, then continue as appearance glows online. For sunhat or pick up a cream that normal with business attire but some reason, scarves just don’t reduces high colouring. if you need to reassure staff in a work for online interaction; they There will be different levels friendly manner, smart casual is can look sloppy (if it’s a big of ‘dress up’ required depending perfect. Common sense should scarf) or stuffy (if it’s a small on who you need to engage with dictate and just because you are neck style one). We all know online. It takes more disci- only visible on a screen, wrin- what kind of neckline is most pline and commitment to stay kles on a shirt do not disappear flattering, so go with that. Keep productive in our new working unless they are ironed out! the jewellery as neat as possible. environments so if you are There is no avoiding the fact Obviously you don’t need to go used to presenting yourself in a that people make snap judge- all out with your bottom half but certain way to your clients, keep ments and like it or not, your wearing your pjs or slouchy leg- those standards when attending appearance says a lot about you gings is just not good enough. It video conferences. Your clients even before you speak. Make it doesn’t matter that no one else is and co-workers will continue to so when you appear on screen, aware of what is on your legs or see you as the professional that people feel like they might miss even if there is anything at all on you are. You will be demonstrat- something important if they don’t listen to your every word. Looking to enhance your personal brand online? Make the right first impression online with professional headshots More time and space fosters professional and personal creativity for Bronagh

Bronagh White runs B-Line lockdown happened. challenging as I’m sure it has Marketing in Clonakilty. “Personally, I’ve been lucky been for many others.” Originally from Carndonagh in that my children are a little “On the buying side, that has older and home schooling hasn’t changed a lot as showrooms in Donegal, Bronagh spent been a toil, as I know it has been are closed and trade shows are 10 years in Dublin, at Anna Groniecka | West Cork Photography for many. Working from home cancelled. Generally, suppliers Commercial | Corporate Headshots | Weddings | Portrait university and in various was a relatively easy transition have adapted really well. I do sales and marketing roles for me. The only drawback miss the buzz of meeting people M: 087 2511924 E: [email protected] for Mars, Ferrero and Nike, of lockdown was the loss of but many of my colleagues have annagroniecka.com before making her home freedom to visit my family in been great at keeping in touch in West Cork a decade ago Donegal. over phone and Whatsapp, so 15 Ashe Street, Clonakilty “The upside of the pandemic that helps to ensure that isolation with her husband and two was that all of us were at home doesn’t creep in.” children. together a lot more, there was Bronagh advises anyone Follow me and check out more of my work on Instagram. ECQM a lot less running and racing newly working from home is to ronagh counts herself and we had time to eat togeth- keep it simple: “Set up a dedi- lucky to have spent er, exercise and have more cated space for which you don’t most of her life in two downtime as a family. I think need much more than a desk, a Bfamously scenic places (Donegal it has given me more time and good chair and a computer. Do Bronagh is joined by some alpacas in one of her favourite and West Cork): “I absolutely space which I think has resulted invest in a good chair, your back spots on the Inishowen peninsula in Donegal. love them both. I am thrilled to in more creativity personally and will thank you for it. Keep to a find myself back near the sea professionally.” routine of working at the same in a small town, especially one Bronagh finds that her main times as before. Take breaks as welcoming and friendly as challenge is less face-to-face and don’t multitask. Try to stay Clonakilty.” contact with clients: “We are positive and make the best of the As a Marketing Consultant, lucky that technology is good situation that you find yourself Bronagh’s job involves all as- enough to allow us to still in.” pects of marketing for business, continue with meetings and Bronagh thinks she will everything from design and sharing of information. I do continue to mix both home and social media to Search Engine sometimes now visit clients office based work in the future: Optimisation and Google Ana- for consultations about various “I imagine a lot of people will lytics. Her clients are Cork and things but that’s much less often be more enabled to fit their jobs West Cork based. than before. A lot of my regular around their lives and I think She is also part of a buying meetings have been moved to that will be good for everyone. team for one of her clients, Microsoft Teams. I believe a lot of companies buying product ranges such as “It can be tricky to gauge peo- were afraid to let people work Homeware and Seasonal. “It’s ple when you can’t see them in from home. However, in time, extremely varied and interesting real life, but I think if everyone they will reap the benefits, as work,” she says. “No two days keeps it brief and to the point, undoubtedly the increase in are ever the same.” we can actually get more done flexibility will make people less Prior to the pandemic, in a shorter time. Unfortunately, stressed. depending on which client she you do lose some of the cama- You can contact Bronagh at was working with, Bronagh was raderie and banter that us Irish b.linemarketingclon@gmail. either office-based or home- are famous for. My job is very com or linkedin.com/in/bronagh- based so she was well set up to busy and I tend to work alone a white work at home full-time when the lot anyway, so it hasn’t been as 38 September 4 – October 1, 2020 Special Feature REMOTE WORKING WEST CORK Enjoy the work, enjoy the lifestyle Setting up a home office to suit your needs or many of us our home are all essential. your focus. Mood carpenter a call and investing has now become our You might think that a desk If you have the luxury to Next decide on the mood of the in some built-in furniture that’s central work hub, whereas and a chair is all you need to set convert a full bedroom into room. If you’re painting, decide both functional and beautiful. Fprior to Covid-19, a home office up a home office but honestly your office, then that’s great, Keep in mind that the last thing if you want a warm or cool, would not have been seen as an this is not true. Space of course but if you don’t, perhaps you restful or stimulating colour? you will want to be looking at is essential ergonomically planned comes into play but choosing could place an unobtrusive If you dare, perhaps choose a an ugly printer or photocopier, space. In fact our home envi- the right location for your office, or easily stored away desk in colour that suits the personality so make space for this in your ronment has been completely buying the correct ergonomic the bedroom (a quick search of your home! As an interior de- bespoke cabinet. If you can’t go turned on its head. As workers, office furniture and setting up a online will show up a number signer, I believe that colour can completely wireless-tech, think we understand that in order to comfortable space with enough of options from Irish companies dramatically affect your mood, about how you’ll hide your do a good days work, a quiet natural light and fit-for-purpose that can be put together and feelings and emotions. Wassily cables away. Keep important and distraction-free working surroundings should be top of taken down in minutes). You Kandinsky once remarked that folders stored close-at-hand in space is necessary. As an interior the list. could also consider slotting a INTERIORS ‘Colour is a powerful commu- an attractive mesh tray on your designer, I know that in order desk into the alcove out of the nication tool and can be used to desk. to define a professional work way. Just ensure you are sitting Maura Mackey signal action, influence mood, area that separates your business Location at the correct height in a chair In terms of location, choose a and even influence physiologi- from your personal life, there with ergonomic fixtures and Lighting space in the home with enough Maura Mackey is a Cork-based cal reactions’. Natural light is best so be are a number of factors that are comfortable in that space. It power sources and where you interior and retail display Take into account which mindful when placing your desk need to be considered; location, may even be possible to hide the can isolate yourself without too designer. A professional with direction the room is facing. of where the window is located. lighting, confinement of clutter desk and chair in a wardrobe. many distractions to disturb an eye for detail and interior Choose warmer tones of white, Try to have it in front of you, and the ergonomics of the space This option means you can close grey, green or blue for example so you won’t have to deal with the door and turn it back into styling, she thrives on giving for a North-facing room. A suit- the glare and you can enjoy the your bedroom in an instant. If any home the ‘showhouse able paint colour, for example view. Choose smart artificial the room is already painted you feel’ when up for sale or rental ‘Pointing’ from Farrow and Ball lights with adjustable colour can make the space feel brighter from a home staging point of (one of my favourite off whites) temperatures so you always INTERIOR STYLING FOR by perhaps changing the view. On the other hand, if will give your room that perfect have the best light at different YOUR HOME & BUSINESS halogen bulbs to a warm white, you are looking to give your home a makeover or restyling, warm glow that can usually times in the day. Add a desk adding a bright rug (this also only be achieved with natural Upgrade and ‘Maura Mackey Design’ will light if required. helps with noise absorption), sunlight. Rooms that face south remodelling packages help you achieve the home of a floor lamp, and a piece of art enjoy strong natural light so on the back of your desk. If your dreams. P: 087-7699714. Going that bit further… Hand select interiors most colours will work well. you do not have enough natural [email protected] If you decide to add on a room to suit your budget light in that space, choose good to your home for your office, remember to check with the Maura Mackey Staging houses desk light and a few shelves for Storage nice display, including a plant Creating a space that is clut- planning office before construc- for sale/resale. storage if needed. Design or two, or an appropriate piece ter-free is key to productivity. tion. Take into account what ALL THINGS INTERIOR of art on the wall (there are so Virtual Consultations You may need to invest in some you need in this space – you get Office Furniture to build it only once so make If you have space to go all it bigger rather than smaller if m 087-7699714 k [email protected] out with your desk, look at A suitable paint colour, for example ‘Pointing’ from your budget allows. Always adjustable height desks, which www.mauramackey.ie Farrow and Ball (one of my favourite off whites) ensure that there is enough nat- you can sit or stand at. Don- ural light, add in enough power worth’s in Cork City and High will give your room that perfect warm glow that can outlets, light points and go for Resolution in Clonakilty both usually only be achieved with natural sunlight. durable flooring (Amtico, luxury supply sit-stand desks. Studies vinyl tile, laminated flooring). have shown that employees who Also take into account the alternate between a sitting and aforementioned points on mood, standing position will have more lighting and furniture. energy, experience reduced There are a number of fatigue levels, and reduce their companies in Cork supplying risk of injury caused by working and fitting home offices of all in one body position too long shapes and sizes and these can An ergonomic chair should be the perfect solution if you have a lumbar adjustment (both want a professional office space height and depth) so each user outside your home but don’t can get the proper fit to support want the stress of having to take the inward curve of the lower on a building project. Most will back. Most ergonomic chairs come fully insulated and wired have armrests, and these should and some companies will build also be adjustable. A footrest completely bespoke to suit your and keyboard wrist rest may needs. It’s a great solution for be necessary, depending on anyone with the budget, who your seating arrangement and wants to completely separate posture. home from work, but still save If privacy is an issue, invest on the daily commute. in a good filing cabinet for floating shelves; add a plant or Working from home isn’t for storage (a plant trailing down two for office chic. If you don’t everyone, but if it’s for you, over the side will soften the hard have the room to hide storage then recognise that there is no metal edges). boxes away, then take the time such thing as one size fits all and Your desk takes central stage to find some with pretty patterns designing an office space in the so place it in the right area in or colours that may also double right location to suit your needs that room, ensuring that there as a coffee table or even become will go a long way towards im- is enough space on it for your an art piece in their own right. proving productivity, aiding job laptop, monitor and keyboard. If you have the budget, space is satisfaction and ensuring overall Keep in mind that if you’re many talented West Cork artists limited, and this office is a per- wellbeing. holding online meetings, what- you could purchase an original manent feature in your home, it ever is behind you will be easily piece or print from). may be worth giving your local seen; place a bookshelf with a September 4 – October 1, 2020 39 people Environment : Making a difference Future of the environment in the hands of the people Framework Convention on Any scheme that creates pol- future generations; and it is new act has provided the foun- The Law of Ecocide would Climate Change is that while lution permits and sells these to our duty to create systems that dation for air pollution policy amend The Rome Statute to add the Convention encouraged polluters will fail completely to guarantee planetary health and in the UK to the present day, a Fifth Crime Against Peace, industrialised countries to stabi- stop pollution or to halt, or even well being. with the result that currently an such that extensive damage to, lise greenhouse gas emissions, slow down manmade climate In the UK in 1863, a pol- industry is required only to use destruction of, or loss of eco- the Protocol commits them to change. These ‘permit’ control lution control Act called the the ‘best available techniques system(s) of a given territory do so. measures have simply mon- ‘Alkali Act’ was passed by not entailing excessive cost’. would become a crime. Sadly, however the Kyo- etised pollution and enabled parliament in response to the As Polly Higgins, barrister, In effect it will prohibit to Protocol allows ‘carry- trading of pollution credits extensive damage to vegeta- and environmental lobbyist, Ecosystem Destruction in the over credits’, which are a via the various international tion caused by soda industry pointed out in her book ‘Erad- same way that the 1863 Alkali ENVIRONMENTAL carbon accounting measure by systems for trading greenhouse factories producing, amongst icating Ecocide’, the original Act in the UK prohibited the which nations count histori- gas emission allowances. other gases, hydrogen chloride. intent of the legislation of 1863 soda industry polluting the air. MATTERS cal emission reductions that The way the agreements are This hydrogen chloride was was the complete eradication of This International Crime would Fiona Hayes exceeded previous international structured enables allowances converted into hydrochloric a pollution problem, however force industry, financiers and goals towards its current targets. to be given to those countries acid in the atmosphere. The over the years the intent to stop governments to support and In essence, carryover cred- who are the biggest polluters Alkali Act required that 95 per pollution was replaced with a employ clean methodologies, its represent the volume of of the atmosphere and who cent of the emissions should be compromise. Cost became the many of which already exist but he United Nations En- deciding factor and companies are lobbied against by powerful vironment Programme can now argue that it is not polluting companies, because (UNEP) is the leading ‘reasonably’ practical to pay initially, employing these would Tglobal environmental authority for additional measures to stop be disruptive to their company that sets the global environ- pollution. Legislation for the and would cut into their profits. mental agenda. Its role includes environment simply modifies Building a global community implementation of the environ- the right to pollute rather than of Conscientious Protectors for mental dimension of the United prohibiting pollution. the Earth supports lobbying for Nations (UN) sustainable devel- This UK practice with this new law at International opment goals and to serve as an regards to pollution has set the Level. authoritative advocate for the standards across the world, We are running out of time. global environment. with industry itself making the Destruction and Degradation of UNEP’s mission is to provide decisions on what entails ‘best the Environment and increasing leadership; and encourage part- practice’. In effect, the pollut- Man Made Climate Change are nership; in caring for the envi- ers make the rules. each creating societal divisions ronment by inspiring, inform- Polly Higgins co-founded the and emergency across the ing, and enabling nations and ‘Stop Ecocide Foundation’, a world. The future is fundamen- peoples to improve their quality growing international move- tally in the hands of the mass of life without compromising emissions a country could have have historically contributed stopped and the remaining five ment of ‘Earth Protectors’ based of the people. We must take that of future generations. released, but did not. It also the most to man made climate per cent diluted. on a legal document, the Earth action. UNEP plays a vital role in allows for greenhouse gas emis- change. Prior to this act being passed Protectors Trust Fund doc- You can learn more about shaping International Environ- sion reductions to be carried Indeed Climate Negotiations, almost 14,000 tons of emissions ument. Going beyond first the proposed Law of Ecocide mental Agreements or Protocol, out in projects implemented or where the focus has been on were produced by alkali facto- generation crowd funding, this or join the growing number however therein lies part of the financed in other countries, in ownership markets to buy and ries per annum; however once is the first time that a trust fund of ‘Conscientious Protectors’ problem. exchange for credits that can trade the rights to emit the very the act came into force this was backed by international law has by going to www.stopecocide. The Kyoto Protocol is a great be used towards achieving the pollutants that are destroy- rapidly reduced to just 45 tons been used to crowd fund for a earth. example. It sets binding targets Kyoto target. ing our planet, demonstrate annually, a 99.7 per cent reduc- new international law to be put for 37 industrialised countries Dalradian Gold, for example, bleakly, a distinct lack of care tion in that type of pollution. in place. and the European commu- the company who are currently and non-engagement in the Just 11 years later, in 1874, a nity for reducing emissions applying for planning per- future for our children and our second Alkali Act was passed to of six greenhouse gases. The mission to mine the Sperrins children’s children. police ALL heavy chemical in- Kyoto Protocol was adopted on in County Tyrone (see last It is impossible for rich dustry that emitted any smoke, December 11, 1997 but didn’t month’s West Cork People) nations, wealthy companies and grit, dust and fumes. Sadly enter into force until February boasts of using a comprehen- wealthy individuals to buy and however this second act wa- 16, 2005. 184 Parties of the sive carbon offset scheme, trade their way out of climate tered down the solution that had Convention have ratified its supporting a water purification change and ecosystem destruc- been so effective in the 1863 Protocol to date. The major project in Cambodia, to render tion; rather WE the PEOPLE of act, requiring industry simply to distinction between the Kyoto its considerable carbon emis- the EARTH have a duty of care apply ‘Best Possible Means’ to Protocol and the United Nations sions ‘net zero’. towards the planet and towards tackle pollution problems. This S P Funding boost for Active Travel and Climate ECOCIDE Adaptation in Cork County change the law ork County Council has see communities benefit from with recent severe weather. while the recent impacts of welcomed the allocation improved accessible walking Deputy Chief Executive of severe weather events hit our of more than €6.6m and cycling infrastructure. Cork County Council, James communities hard, this funding Cfor Active Travel and Climate This investment compliments Fogarty said: “Cork County will allow us to build on the Change Adaption measures in and builds on projects already Council secured this significant work of Project ACT while Cork County under the Govern- commenced by Cork County funding from the Department of future proofing our commu- ment’s July Jobs Stimulus Plan. Council under its project ACT Transport, Tourism and Sport in nities and our infrastructure. The allocation is part of an initiative. The Climate Adapta- order to implement a range of This funding, in addition to overall €115 million package tion funding will support Cork targeted measures to enhance the recent investment of over for sustainable transport and County Council to alleviate Active Travel and to put in €950,000 from the National transport infrastructure renewal flooding to roads and property, place some of the necessary cli- Transport Authority, will help nationally. through the future proofing mate adaptation steps to protect significantly in achieving our The Active Travel grant of vital infrastructure against our county’s infrastructure and sustainable travel goals for scheme will bring an invest- the effects of climate change, build resilience. Cork County towns and villages in Cork ment in excess of €5million for improved drainage as well Council’s Project ACT has been County.” www.stopECOCIDE.earth enhancements in Cork County’s as essential road, bridge and delivering great improvements @ecocidelaw towns and villages and will embankment repairs associated for our towns and villages and 40 September 4 – October 1, 2020 people Environment : Making a difference Principal 7: Integrate rather than segregate more aesthetically pleasing end like socio-economic classes, ture principal encourages us to result. By adding animals to backgrounds and stages of life, design our towns with houses that mix you have fertilisation, but we see the magic when all to suit all household sizes, from pest control and extra yields those clusters mix. When we bachelor pads to five-bedroom of meat and eggs eliminating moved to Clonakilty twelve detached homes, and to layout the need for harsh chemicals or years ago I noticed that in the houses so that the sizes hard labour. Numerous studies this town there is a lot more are mixed together, affordable have been done the world over integration then I was used houses and luxury homes side PERMANENT to show the increased produc- to seeing in other countries I by side to encourage socio-eco- tivity of integrated planning lived in (namely Australia and nomic mixing. This ensures CULTURE on farms, and farmer/educator Canada); here you can find all residents are provided for, Allison Roberts Joel Salatin in Virginia, USA residents of all ages and inter- and no residents are ‘shoved is a prime example. Joel has ests mixing at our community aside’. The same can be said committed his farming practice garden, stopping to chat in the about transport integration. We his month’s theme has to this principal, and by rotating street or at a gig in DeBarras – need our pedestrians and cyclist been coming up every- animals and crops and seeking something we now all dearly infrastructure integrated into where I go. Permacul- out co-workers with different miss. There is a richness gained the design, so no road user is Tture’s seventh principal asks backgrounds and complemen- from chatting to people who left out, and all are considered designers to steer away from tary skill sets to help his farm have different life experiences, equally. monocultures – be it plants grow, he has grown from a and of course it will only serve By designing our systems or demographics. In a garden being a conventional farmer to us better to encourage even and structures with the mindset or forest we know that by managing his 2000 acre farm more integration. If there is one of ‘access for all’ we can create planting mixed species to create organically, using integration, thing the Covid-19 restrictions towns where all residents can biodiversity we can naturally and the farm now grosses $2 are teaching us, it is that we our unplanned interactions have with old friends and gather mix and discuss ideas and avoid many problems with pest million a year and employs 20 are a social species; we miss been curtailed and so we have community. create projects, drawing on the and diseases, build resilience staff. our daily interactions dearly. been turning to technology like In terms of town planning rich combined experience and in case one species doesn’t We human beings often Though we are reconnecting Zoom and Skype to connect and ‘Cool Clon’, this Permacul- perspectives. thrive and also provide a much cluster together, in groups of with close friends and family, Until next time! Baltimore-buit wooden sail cargo vessel offers an eco-friendly sustainable alternative reland’s only surviving The Ilen then travels up the and can be used again for wooden sail cargo vessel Shannon estuary to Limerick eco-trading. revived a tradition lost a on August 31 where locally “This method of cargo deliv- Icentury ago when it embarked craft produced Ishka water, ery was phased out due to the on a symbolic series of sus- Limerick beer and whiskey expansion of the road network tainable wind-powered supply will be loaded for the journey in the 1920s and 30s, with the trips to islands on the south to Kilronan in the Aran Islands last delivery under sail alone and west coasts last month. on September 2. taking place in the Shannon The Ilen, which was built More supplies will be un- Estuary in 1953. in Baltimore in West Cork in loaded at Dingle on September “All over Europe, sail cargo 1926, is Ireland’s last wooden 5 before the Ilen completes deliveries are springing up cargo vessel with a hold, its journey to Cork Harbour and people are using the trade and heir to a centuries-old on September 7 to deliver the winds to travel to Madeira and trading tradition, which is now remainder of its cargo. the Caribbean, bringing back being revived worldwide as Ilen now serves as a com- rum and coffee. an eco-friendly sustainable munity floating classroom and “Worldwide, eco-trading alternative. cargo vessel – last year visiting is a growing movement and The two-week voyage of 23 ports and making a transat- serious design time is being cargo and community left lantic crossing to Greenland as put into designing full sized Baltimore with a cargo of lo- part of a relationship-building modern cargo ships that can cally produced cheese, coffee project to link youth in Limer- harness the wind and reduce and whiskey to pick up gin at ick City with youth in Nuuk, fossil fuel use and air pollu- Ireland’s only surviving sail cargo vessel the Ilen. Pic: Gary MacMahon North Harbour on Cape Clear West Greenland. tion.” Island – from where the vessel “The Ilen is a community originally left for the Falk- and training project, and is part lands, crewed by locals Con of a growing fleet of sailing SuperValu launches Back to and Denis Cadogan. ships around the world pro- The cargo ketch served for viding an alternative and more School Eco Range with 250 over 70 years transporting environmentally friendly way sheep and goods between the of delivering cargoes,” said products Falkland Islands before being Gary MacMahon. uperValu’s Back to School Eco Range is available now in 120 brought back to Ireland 20 “Here in Ireland we have stores nationwide. Since launching Ireland’s largest eco-range years ago and restored by a loads of wind, but just one in 2019, SuperValu has doubled the number of products in the team led by Limerick man ship that can harness it and the Srange, which now features 250 products, including for the first time Gary MacMahon. tide to deliver products in a SuperValu own brand 100 per cent compostable Paper Sandwich The rotating crew of four sustainable manner. Bags. will sail to Kilrush Creek Ma- “This symbolic voyage is Ray Kelly, Interim Managing Director of SuperValu, said of the rina on Thursday and then on looking to educate people that launch, “We are delighted to expand the Eco-Range in SuperValu to Foynes Island on Saturday, we have a network of small stores. SuperValu are committed to providing customers with more sustainable choice and recognise the importance of green alterna- home to its original designer ports arounds the coast and the tives to both our customers and the environment. We will continue Conor O’Brien who died there islands which were built in the to work towards our goal of 100 per cent recyclable, reusable or in 1952. 19th century for this purpose, compostable packaging on certain ranges by 2025.” September 4 – October 1, 2020 41 people Farming What could be next? I don’t need to remind readers of the two-week washout in the second half of August. In a period of 12 days, we experienced rainfall in excess of 30mm four times. Roads were washed away in the locality, multimillion euro flood defences were flooded, and even the beach down the road was washed out to sea. The fact that ground conditions FARMING were relatively dry up until two Raymond and Killian Moloney cutting winter Barley at Brownstown Ardfield. weeks ago has been a saving tered. With growth driving on, and ear loss separate to the under 330 kilos are holding fallout from the Oireachtas IN WEST CORK grace. an extra 2ac were added and impact of lodging or the abil- well with many selling in a Golf society dinner will be felt I’ve been running the cattle by the time the mower arrived ity to get them off the ground range from €2.65/kg to €3/ for a while yet. Politicians who Tommy Moyles in smaller groups so combined Sunday, another paddock was whenever harvesting can take kg. The heavier weanling in the should have known better felt with strong winds drying added to the mix. place. Wheat and barley heads main is making between €2.10/ they were above the law and ground; this is keeping any In his farming diary, West Cork Hopefully, we should be on the ground aren’t of much kg to €2.30/kg with a shake some have now paid the price. damage to a minimum. As a suckler farmer and columnist well stocked with silage now. use. There are suggestions that more available for the top end The fact that a global pan- result, grazing conditions are with the Irish Farmers Journal, The latest cut yielded a similar there have been yield losses of animals. demic dominates the headlines holding up better than expected. Tommy Moyles covers the lay result to the first cut back in up to 20 per cent already. Base price for beef at the doesn’t mean Brexit or CAP Saying that, a spring of the land across all agri and May. I could have cut another factories has remained steady negotiations have gone away. developed in one of the fields farming enterprises – news, few acres on the home ground, at around €3.70/kg up on last There’s been enough turmoil that I’ve only ever seen once Dairy views and people in farming but if the weather continued as The year is turning out better year. in agriculture over the last 18 before in the washout summer across West Cork and further it was, I might have ended up than expected for dairy farmers. Some politicians who were months and having a monthly of 2012. afield. feeding bales the week after While there were concerns offering support to farmers Minister for Agriculture over In association instead. earlier in the spring that the outside beef factory gates last the course of the summer isn’t Silage milk price may fall dramatical- autumn now find themselves in helping the situation. with An upside from the combi- ly, the base price in West Cork power. Lucky for them the bad Surely, some common sense nation of warm temperatures Grain losses The travails of a livestock has remained above 30c/l since weather has distracted farmers will prevail and a minister and moisture has been grass farmer at the moment pale in Covid measures came into somewhat from what appears found. growth. It’s been excellent comparison to the challenges force. to be one political cock up after Even then, there’s going to here do I start on and, as a result there was a faced by grain farmers. Be- Carbery maintained their another. be an uncertainty among farm the goings on of the higher-than-expected late cut of tween drought early in the year base price for milk supplied in Farmers might have expected organisations, the heads of last month? Rain, silage taken. and now this wind and rain, it’s July at 30.26c/l while Dairy- a different form of green to whom will be meeting their Wstorms, golf, Covid clusters in Usually, I like to have our si- going to test their resilience yet gold increased theirs to 29.1c/l. cause trouble for the new third new minister in 10 weeks. meat plants, rotating agriculture lage season wrapped up before again. Reports from Teagasc Government, which finds In the meantime, farmers will ministers: There was a time the end of July, but a few les- are that the recent storms have itself firmly in the rough. Long wait and see who our Minister when the media used to refer to sons were learned from the late Beef caused serious damage to On the beef side, weanling before events in Clifden came for Agriculture for the month of late summer as the silly season cuts in 2018. The plan at the crops, with a proportion blown sales have kicked off and prices to the fore, there were plenty September will be. with worthwhile news hard to start of the month was to take and beaten into the ground. appear to be a little better than of cracks visible in the “we’re find. 2020 feels like it’s trying a light cut off 8ac this week Many crops have suffered recent years. all in this together” approach to squeeze a decade into a year. where the young stock are win- grain losses through shedding Prices for the lighter animal to tackling COVID-19. The

Farm Life: Jer O’Callaghan, Colla, Schull. Suckler and dry stock farmer. Interview by February 1 to Patrick’s day. I in April. They come to me at was a big eye opener. Tommy Moyles sell those ones in early October about 13 to 14 months and I run When I saw people in worse in Macroom mart. my own bull with them. I had circumstances, I thought there Describe your farm? them scanned at the end of Au- is nothing wrong with me once I farm f about forty acres. I’ve Do you run more stock? gust and all were in calf. They I can walk and get around. a suckler herd and do some Once calving is finished, I buy are with me until the first week Farming with a disability contract rearing. in about 18 calves and bucket of December. Once they’re didn’t hold me back as, aside It’s a very dry farm with a rear them. I buy Angus bull and gone I buy in some continental from silage, I do all my own lot of gravel in it and I’m able heifer calves every year from heifers and run them with the machinery work and fenc- to get 70 per cent of my slurry two dairy farmers near me. bull in July and sell them as ing. When I’m fencing at the out in January. That slurry They come in at about three or calf heifers. I used to find the roadside, I could have a lot of gives you good results for the four weeks of age and they’re bull got agitated in July when spectators looking on when I’m rest of the year. Over half the fed twice a day. I keep them for breeding season was over but driving poles with one hand. farm is used for first cut silage a few about four months and this helps keep him relaxed. As my cousins always say, in the second half of May. The then sell them on to a farmer This system works well for me. they can’t go wrong when they remainder of the bales for the who has become a regular follow their right-hand man. year are taken from paddocks customer. I’m happy enough Farming with a disability purebred at this stage. I have a The bulls would be averaging that get strong. I’ve no bother with that system. It works out hasn’t held you back. Could Do you enjoy farming? Limousin bull and the beauty of 330kg and the heifers about getting contractors, as they’re super for me. you tell readers what hap- I find farming life very relax- the bull is I’ve never had to pull 360kg. Over the winter I sepa- my first cousins! They look pened you? ing. I’m overlooking Long a calf of his. rate them from the cows in the forward to the phone call, as You also do some contract Following a motorbike ac- Island and Cape Clear, which is house and let them back into they’d be anxious to get the rearing for a dairy farmer. cident, which resulted in my a busy spot. The young calves When do they calf? the cows to suck in the morning gear going. What does that involve? left hand being amputated just are great when they’re here, I Some are autumn calving and and evening. The calves have a I started contract rearing dairy above my elbow, I was in CUH keep them in the paddocks near they’re calving at them mo- lie back near cows. They’re on Tell us about the herd? heifers about three years ago. for six weeks and the National the house and my 95-year-old ment. Those weanling would rubber mats and are very con- There are 10 red Limousin The heifers come into my Rehabilitation Centre in Dun father enjoys walking out to see be sold around St Patrick’s day. tent. The rest of them calf from cows. They’d be almost herd after my annual herd test Laoghaire for three weeks. That them thrive. 42 September 4 – October 1, 2020 people Health & Lifestyle Techniques to help children deal with back to school anxiety s children return to It is normal to feel anxious children feel about it. looking forward to i.e. seeing day and provide fuel for their school, many parents, about unknown situations, When faced with an unknown their friends again, and the brain. Cereal is high in carbohy- children and teachers however it is important to be situation, focus on the things subjects that they enjoy. If your drates and sugar and can make Aare anxious about what to expect aware that how we feel about a that you know and the things child is still feeling anxious ask anxiety worst so try something in the coming weeks. situation can also influence how within your control. Schools are them “where do you feel that?” like scrambled eggs with bacon doing their best to reduce the Anxious feelings are most often or french toast. risk of any spread of infections. felt in the tummy and can feel Exercise will also help to Bus Eireann and schools are like butterflies or nausea. There reduce anxiety; going for a walk making contact with parents to are many practical things that after school, playing a fun game make them aware of new policy parents can do to reduce these of football or encouraging them and requirements to minimise feelings. to bounce on the trampoline will risk. It is important to read First ask them “what it will be all be helpful. SAMIRA BRANCH through these policies and then like when that yucky feeling is A lot of adults feel that chil- ACUPUNCTURE & YOGA to sit down with your children Amanda Roe gone?” Acupressure is fun and dren will grow out of anxiety, Acupuncture Clinic Clonakilty and talk through the information Trauma therapist easy to do at home. In Chinese but in my experience it might above Green Dot, 15 Ashe St. so they are informed and know & Mind coach medicine there are acupressure take many years and the support what to expect. points that bring comfort to the of a therapist to do so. Why YOGA CLASSES In the future, primary school body and the mind. Tapping wait? Imagine how much more children (with the exception of mean less stress when the first gently under the eye (see fun they could have had free of Monday Easy Flow: 6.30-7.30pm children who for medical or spe- one is in the wash. diagram) is good for relieving anxiety and worry. If you notice Strong Flow: 7.45-9pm REOPENING cial educational needs reasons Talk to your children about anxiety in the stomach. Show your child is anxious, constant- Friday Easy Flow: 10-11am SEPTEMBER can not) may be asked to wear how they are feeling about them where to tap and tap gently ly worried, easily startled or a facemask or face covering. going back to school. Ask how with them for 30 seconds, then developing everyday fears it is m 087 9024274 8TH You can make this fun by letting they are feeling about masks and ask “is that helping the yucky time to get help. There are lots k [email protected] ALL COVID-19 your child choose his or her own hand cleaning being mandatory. feeling go away?” If it is helping of interventions that parents www.samirabranchacupuncture.com GUIDELINES IN PLACE mask. Having a spare one will If they have asthma or do not you can repeat this until the can learn to support recovery at like having their face covered feeling is gone. home. But please remember if find out if they can use a visor. Giving your child a hug and you are a teacher or parent deal- Ask your child if having a prac- drawing a figure of eight on ing with your own anxiety or tice school day where you both your child’s forehead as you hug worries, resolving these issues wear a face covering would be them can also help them feel first will reduce the emotional helpful. And then most impor- better as it calms the mind and affect on others around you, and tantly listen to their reply. stimulates many of our body’s leave you in a better position to Heal Body, Mind & Emotions Children are very good at innate relaxation and healing support those you are caring for. Trauma and Fear problem solving when adults processes. These techniques Emotional problems, trauma, have the time to listen. Help PTSD, Bullying, Panic Attacks, Insomnia will work for all ages including addiction and fear impact on our children to find answers to their adults so try them on yourself. behaviour, health, weight and Water, Flying, Childbirth, Needle phobia concerns by asking them “How It is difficult to manage hormones. I support adults and Anxiety and Depression do you think we can make emotions when tired. So support children to take back control of this easier for you and other Headaches, Cravings, Nausea, Pain, IBS your child to get enough sleep. their mental, physical and emo- children?” Aim for nine to 12 hours of tional health through a range Mood swings, Infertility, Hormone balancing If they are not sure you can sleep per night. As the evenings of therapies, which include Personal development give them an example by saying are still very bright, a blackout dietary advice, hypnotherapy “if it was me I might…” (Give blind will help you to re-estab- and acupuncture. If you are Stress & Mind Coaching, Sports Enhancement them an example of what you lish sleep patterns. curious please do get in touch, I might do) then ask them what In the morning make them a am looking forward to hearing Amanda Roe 087 633 1898 they think? Could that work for breakfast that contains protein. from you. www.Marketstclinic.com Skibbereen and Online you? Protein will give children the Amanda 087 6331898 / Remember to also have con- energy they need for the school [email protected] versations around what they are School’s in for winter…apologies to Alice Cooper his month I have been preschool child about social at school, avoiding conges- is to the oldies, or susceptible, precautions we are taking have asked by our concerned distancing and not getting a tion during breaks, and a sick that the child might come into been shown to reduce seasonal editor to say a few words cuddle from teacher when bay should a child become contact with. flu by over 95 per cent in Aus- Tabout our children returning to needed – impossible! unwell at school. PPE will be I would go further. As a mi- tralia. This is very encouraging, school. We are where we are! We available at school to protect crobiologist friend of mine said, as our flu spreads from down Well the bottom line is – it have to trust the teachers, as a teacher coming into contact the elderly should limit social under and we base our vaccina- has to happen! We know that we trust the doctors to do the with a child with a new cold, interactions long-term. Covid tions on the Oz flu viruses that during the lockdown emotional right thing. Times are uncertain, temperature, or early Covid. will be here for years. are circulating during their win- and psychiatric problems have that is for sure, but our teachers Deep cleaning of classrooms I hear enraged people on the ter. However it’s still important soared. I believe only so much have had months to plan this is another measure that is so radio berating Government and to still get your flu jab, as from can be learned from a laptop; it inevitable return to school. important. If a classroom is everyone else; yes things are September/October. fills a gap but does not replace So what are the changes we contaminated, it will be deep not perfect but come up with One last word about the DOCTOR’S the full school experience – the are likely to see? Our children cleaned immediately. a better plan I say and I will recent clusters associated with friendships children develop, are now well used to regular As parents we also have to listen. highly publicised coverage in ORDERS the competition and general hand washing, hand sanitisers use our own common sense I also fear the threat of the media on how “Covid loves craic. It’s a no-brainer; so few and social distancing. They with regard to assessing wheth- litigation, which is bankrupting to party”. I hinted at rebellion Dr Jeff Featherstone of us could fully educate our either wear or see mum and dad er our child is well enough to the HSE and NHS in the UK, as in my last article; this is not the children alone. in facemasks. attend school and washing their the blame culture proliferates. time for celebrating. A serious Dr Featherstone is a high- I have listened to all the They know all about cough uniforms and clothes and so on. Do teachers need to write dis- battle is being waged. ly experienced medic and discussions about the impossi- etiquette, even though they Changes and protocols claimers to say they are doing Our children are our future award-winning doctor who bility of fully following HSE might not be able to spell it! should now have been well their best under very difficult and need a fully rounded educa- works in a busy GP practice in guidelines at school, but we Everyone agrees that these are advertised by schools. circumstances; please work tion. They are not just ‘bricks in West Cork, as well as at Mercy have to do our best; we cannot the most important measures. Under difficult circumstances with them and not sue them! the wall’. University Hospital and Cork build new bigger classrooms There will be staggered we all have to do our best! Children are very adaptable University Hospital, as an A&E overnight, and nor do we have drop-offs, open windows in I feel, given that few children and resilient – let us see what doctor. the money for major retro- classrooms (so children should develop serious Covid or need they say and how they get on. fitting. How can you teach a wrap up well), one-way traffic hospitalisation, that the big risk On a happier note, the September 4 – October 1, 2020 43 people Health & Lifestyle How to build up your immune defences with Patrick Holford help of one of the most knowl- sugars in plants) at remarkably six grams of vitamin C with edgeable nutrition experts, Pat- high levels, and have the ability steroids report 6 and 3.5 per rick Holford. We have invited to make much more if exposed cent mortality. They’ve also Patrick to join us on a Webinar to a virus. Goats for example, measured vitamin C levels in to discuss his recommendations make the equivalent of 15 grams their patients and they were around nutritional supplements (300 oranges worth) a day. Rats often undetectable, diagnosing and lifestyle tips for keeping the triple production of vitamin C scurvy. Vitamin C levels drop whole family in good health. if exposed to a virus. Why do precipitously under viral attack. Patrick has written a new book they make so much? That’s That’s why animals make more, out on this topic – called Flu why we’re not worried about and you need to take more. Fighters – and he really is a spe- our dogs, cats, sheep and cows. I take one gram of vitamin C cialist in using targeted nutrients They’re all exposed but don’t twice a day – the equivalent of to maintain optimal health. succumb to infection. 40 oranges – but up my intake HEALTH The details on the Webinar Animals that don’t make vi- to one gram an hour when under and how to sign up are at the tamin C include primates, most viral attack until symptoms Hannah Dare end of this article (and if you bats and guinea pigs. That’s disappear. Studies giving six or Organico Bantry can’t make the live event, don’t how the guinea pig became the eight grams in the first day of a worry, we will record it and we experimental animal of choice. cold show that half are symptom can send it out to you). These species share a period of free within 24 hours. I also We also have a tentative plan jungle-based evolution eating supplement zinc, which is in hope you have had a healthy to have Patrick visit Bantry for a diet with very high vitamin C my vitamin C tablet, and make and happy summer. I a one-day health workshop on intake. Gorillas, for example, eat sure my vitamin D level is good. love the summer, and this October 25, but current restric- about four grams a day. The loss I purposely expose my skin Isummer has been particularly tions mean that it might not be of ability to synthesise vitamin every day to twenty minutes of lovely here in West Cork. The possible. We will keep you up- C is thought to have been an sunlight to make vitamin D and pandemic has made me really dated on that through Facebook evolutionary advantage, leaving supplement 1,000iu of vitamin value where I live. As a family and our newsletter. more available sugars for ener- D a day from October to March. we have been outside a good To get us started, he has also gy, at a time when these species These simple steps can make the deal – we got some fabulous sent us this article on the im- had a high dietary intake. world of difference whenever good weather, which we hadn’t portance of remembering your Animals that make vitamin C you get a viral infection.” expected, but really enjoyed. daily Vitamin C – how much to are much less susceptible to the On September 23 at 7.30pm However, heading into the take, why you are taking it and harmful effects of viruses. They we are hosting a Webinar with autumn and ‘back to school’ is how much you should increase may still carry some viruses but Patrick Holford on the best way concerning. your dose by if you encounter a generally don’t die from viral to fight the flu this winter. To get One thing that has really virus or infection. infections. Bats catch and carry a complimentary invite to watch struck me since the start of the “There are two ways to not but don’t succumb because they the webinar (and ask questions COVID is how many people suffer from a virus. The first is do the equivalent of interval if you wish) sign up to our have said they were much to not get infected. That’s what training when they fly, with newsletter (there’s a simple sign healthier compared to the previ- masks and social distancing are their heart rate soaring to a up box on our website, www. ous Spring seasons. When you about. The second is to have a thousand beats a minute. They organico.ie). We will be sending have young children in school, strong immune response. That’s are super-athletes with strong out the link to all our subscrib- you learn to expect a certain what vaccines and vitamins are respiratory systems. ers the week before the Webinar. number of coughs and colds, about. Should we be doing what COVID restrictions per- and maybe stomach upsets, but Vitamin C is one of the most animals that make vitamin C mitting, we are also hoping to this spring in our family we powerful anti-viral agents do, e.g. massively increasing welcome Patrick to Bantry on had none of those. Many other without side effects. There is no our intake under viral infection? October 25 to teach you how families I know had the same virus yet tested that isn’t either Yes. Look at the sharp end. to stay healthy and disease-free experience. So going back to the eliminated or substantially Intensive Care Units in the US in his Seven Secrets of 100 school setting deserves some suppressed if exposed to high and the UK who use intrave- per cent Health workshop on careful consideration in terms enough levels. The issue is how nous vitamin C have a fraction October 25. Places are limited, of building up our children’s to get your blood levels high of the mortality. The average and we will be announcing the immunity, so they can deal with enough when infected. mortality is over 40 per cent. workshop if it’s possible, after the inevitable onslaught of bugs, Before exploring this there’s In London, one ICU used two the regulations are reviewed on WEEKLY TIMETABLE let alone COVID. some background to vitamin C grams of intravenous vitamin September 13. It is planned for BOOKING REQUIRED To help you to work out you need to know. Almost all C and dropped this to 33 per the large conference room in the what’s best for you and your Mon 9.30-10.30am West Cork Pilates Lorraine Dufficey animals make vitamin C (from cent. In the US, two ICUs using Maritime Hotel. 10.30-11.30am West Cork Pilates Lorraine Dufficey family, we have enlisted the Tue 7.30-8.30am Sunrise Yoga Jeff Gonet 10-11am Morning Yoga Jeff Gonet 6.30-7.30pm Sunset Yoga Jeff Gonet 7.45-9.15pm Yoga for Anxiety Amy Russell Bantry Bay Lions Club Diary August 2020 Wed 7.30-8.30am Sunrise Yoga Jeff Gonet he Bantry Bay Lions will Valley centre, Glengarriff Provided by John Dervan, PRO, 10-11am Morning Yoga Jeff Gonet be conducting a bucket Pharmacy, Drimoleague Phar- Bantry Bay Lions Club 12-1pm Chair Yoga Bairbre Crowley collection on Saturday, macy, Bara House Glengarriff 6.30-7.30pm Pregnancy Yoga Clodagh McGuirk TSeptember 5 at SuperValu and road and St Finbarr’s Catholic 7.45-9pm The Joy of Yoga Bairbre Crowley Lidl in Bantry. Proceeds from Church. Please donate your used Thu 7.30-8.30am Sunrise Yoga Jeff Gonet this collection will be allocated spectacles, without cases, at any 10-11am Morning Yoga Jeff Gonet to their charity fund and will of these locations. If you have Noon-1pm Gentle Therapeutic Yoga Bairbre Crowley be distributed locally for flood any queries, please contact Joan 6.30-7.30pm Beginners Yoga Jeff Gonet relief and the homeless. O’Donovan at 086-0563185. Fri 7.30-8.30am Sunrise Yoga Jeff Gonet The Bantry Bay Lions have The Bantry Bay Lions would 9.30-10.30am West Cork Pilates Lorraine Dufficey collected thousands of used like to thank Nora Lynch for her 10.30-11.30am West Cork Pilates Lorraine Dufficey spectacles over the years. These outstanding contribution during 11.30am-12.30pm West Cork Pilates Lorraine Dufficey spectacles are refurbished and her two-year term as President 6.30-8pm Spiritual Development Amy Russell distributed to allow people in of the Club. Past President 7-8.30pm Restorative Yoga Bairbre Crowley the third world to see. There Marion Rouse assumed the role are drop-off locations in Bantry again from Nora in July. The General Hospital (inside the club wishes Marion all the best front door), Bantry public in her new role. Pictured is Nora library, Kenneally eye centre (left) handing over the Chain of Bantry, Newtown Pharmacy Office to Marion. Glengarriff road, Mealagh 44 September 4 – October 1, 2020 people Health & Lifestyle

Right now life is a bit of logistical nightmare for us all. How The nurturing power far is two metres? Is one metre ok if we are outside and have our masks on? Do I have the right mask and should I wear it all the time? What are the mask rules and etiquette? …never of touch in a world mind the stress of forgetting your mask! Then there is the hands worry…Did I disinfect my hands? Which disinfectant is the best or should I just use soap and water? of social distancing Are you exhausted yet? At some point the stress of it all becomes overwhelming and exhausts your nervous system. At that point, help and support – is it really safe? is needed and this support can be achieved through touch therapy explains Joyce O’Sullivan, Solace Holistic Centre. times. This allows us to be fully background at Solace, and in ouch therapy incorpo- and clearing a foggy head present with you during your between sessions, to ensure a rates massage and/or At Solace, myself, Ana and session, to support and guide safe space for you. These proce- reflexology and provides Sarah are here to support you your nervous system to return to dures have been in place since Tnumerous benefits to physical, its own state of equilibrium. we opened and we ensure that and to provide a safe, nurturing mental and emotional health, (and disinfected!) space to have On booking your appointment they do not interfere with how including: massage therapy and reflexolo- we do a ‘check-in’ with you, present we are with you during • Reducing heart rate and blood www.solaceholisticcentre.com gy. We are members of the Irish to see how you are currently your session. After all, it is pressure; 10 Sand Quay Mill, Clarke St. Clonakilty Massage Therapist Associa- feeling and what, if any, are core your time to come back and be • Increasing serotonin levels, 087 9510554 / 023 8859701 FB:@solaceholisticcentreclonakilty tion (IMTA) and the National issues that need to be addressed present with yourself, to allow which calm the nervous Registrar of Reflexology Ireland during your session. Arriving in balancing of mind and body to system; We provide a safe and nurturing space to (NRRI), which have both pro- Solace we give you a con- take place. • Improving circulation and support you through massage and reflexology vided clear guidelines on how sultation form that help us to For more details on session helping to remove excess to practice safe therapy. Abiding ascertain keys issues and which times and for queries please toxins from the body; by these guidelines ensures that incorporates our Covid Consent visit www.solaceholisticcentre. • Balancing hormone levels, we are providing a safe space form. We also have staggered com or contact Solace on 087 which can improve sleep and for you, and that we, as thera- appointment times to reduce 9510554 thought processing; pists, are maintaining our own traffic in the reception area. • Improving digestive function Don’t judge health during these uncertain A lot happens in the WALKING IN is discrimination. What about ableism? Ableism MY SHOES is a form of discrimination and Herbs can help stem the flow prejudice against individuals enorrhagia is the med- Elizabeth Walsh who have or who are perceived ical term for abnor- to have a disability. It assumes Elizabeth Walsh is a founding mally heavy periods. that PWD are inferior to ‘able member of Clonakilty Access MIf you are unfortunate enough bodied’ individuals and discred- Group and current Chair. She to suffer from this, you will be its PWD in a myriad of situa- Yarrow is in flower fosters the idea that there is unable to carry on with your dai- tions including but not limited a whole range of business ly activities as bleeding is heavy, currently, even though to; work opportunity, education, opportunities being lost as a result you are passing blood clots and it has got a battering of lack of accessibility; people having a voice, having personal cramping is severe. Also, if you with disabilities, their friends privacy and having access to the from the recent bad have menorrhagia you will need and family, will give patronage environment. extra sanitary protection to cope weather so is looking where they can access. Out of Ableism assumes that PWD with the flow, which will have fairly shook. this ‘Clonability’ was born, an strive to be ‘normal’, that is initiative between Clonakilty to be changed every few hours ‘able bodied’, and therefore Access Group and Clonakilty and during the night. To add to HERBAL cannot achieve a ‘quality of values of healthy controls and hand, acts upon the hypothala- Chamber of Commerce, whereby, this litany of misery your period life’ or a ‘good life’, as a result patients with menorrhagia was mus and pituitary gland causing simple steps are laid out to may last longer than a week and HEALING of their inferior physical or noted. Other studies have also a shift in the ratio of oestro- enhance business opportunity you may also have symptoms of psychological disability. This Dr. Rosari Kingston found that taking bioflavonoids gen and progesterone, which through providing access to anaemia such as tiredness and customers/visitors, encouraging is based wholly and totally on and increasing vitamin C intake oftentimes is all that is needed to fatigue. On a scale of one to ten, tourism. a prejudiced perception and Dr. Rosari Kingston PhD, M.Sc can reduce menstrual loss in bring the hormonal profile back menorrhagia is at the top, but judgement of another’s life and (Herbal medicine) is a medical many cases. Quercetin is a into balance. very heavy menstrual periods another’s internal emotional herbalist practising in Dr. highly concentrated form of Yarrow will also help with can hit the scale at the upper end ach and every day our state, while ‘able bodied’ people, O’Reilly’s integrative clinical bioflavonoids and is found in cramping as will meadowsweet also. Many women suffer from lives impact on each per- generally, do not choose to make practice in Clonakilty, Co. Cork broccoli, citrus fruits, and red (Filipendula), chamomile (Mat- these and cope in silence think- son’s life whose path we judgements regarding other and yellow onions, so incorpo- ricaria recutitia) tea, marigold ing this is normal. It is not. as well as Church Cross, Skib- Ecross, metaphorically and physi- ‘able bodied persons’’ internal bereen. Dr. Kingston’s area of rating these vegetables into your (Calendula) tea and Ginger Before I look at some ways cally, positively or negatively! emotional states. diet may help. (Zingiber officinale) as they are of relieving heavy menstrual research are the healing modal- To really walk in another An example which occurs Turning to herbs, the more all anti-inflammatory. bleeding it is important to know ities present in Irish vernacular individual’s shoes, it has to be quite regularly is that of a PWD well-known ones are chaste tree Another interesting, and re- there may be underlying factors medicine and she incorporates possible to really visualise how being approached inappropriate- (Vitex agnus castus), shepherd’s cent, clinical trial from Iran has causing it and these need to be them, where possible, into her a PWD is challenged, how they ly by an unknown person, who purse (Capsella bursa pastoris), shown that the traditional treat- addressed if present. Also, if clinical practice. In her clinical interact with the environment, will demand to know ‘what is yarrow (Achillea millefoli- ment of using pomegranate peel the pattern of monthly blood practise she specialises in infer- how the public environment wrong with you?’ or ‘what has um) and cranesbill (Geranium for menorrhagia is beneficial. loss has changed, it needs to be tility and digestive issues. impacts on their life and their happened to you?’ Apart from maculatum). Yarrow is in flower The results of this triple-blind investigated, as does any bleed- www.rosarikingstonphd.com ability to access those areas, it not being anyone’s business, currently, even though it has randomised controlled trial ing between periods and after streets, facilities, which every- this is exceptionally rude and got a battering from the recent showed that the pomegranate the menopause. The underlying one without a disability can. ableism, as it occurs daily. no underlying cause can be bad weather so is looking fairly peel extract reduced bleeding, factors that may cause menor- Most people will identify with Walk in the shoes of a PWD. found; so what helps to relieve shook. It can be found in stony improved quality of life, and in- rhagia, or very heavy menstrual the concept of discriminating How do you feel to be treated the bleeding and cramping? ground. Make tea from it and creased the blood Hb in women loss, include, uterine fibroids, against a person with a dis- as inferior? How do you feel One study from the South drink two to three cups per day. with menorrhagia. hormone imbalance, anovula- ability; it happens all the time, to be judged as less entitled? African Institute for Medical These herbs are also available Finally, regular aerobic exer- tion, polyps, adenomyosis, an intentionally and unintentional- Less intelligent? Less happy? Research in Johannesburg found in your local health food store cise over an eight-week period intrauterine form of contracep- ly. Most people will be horrified By a complete stranger who has that low levels of vitamin A was or pharmacy if unsure how to has been found to reduce painful tive, inherited bleeding disorders at the concept of discrimination, no knowledge of you and with found to be an important cause identify them. Apart from chaste periods so this may be helpful and cancer. However, in approx- yet will they speak out when whom you do not wish to share of menorrhagia, and a statistical- tree, the other herbs are astrin- also in reducing the cramping imately 50 per cent of women access is denied to PWD in the personal information! ly significant difference between gent and will help reduce blood accompanying heavy menstrual with heavy menstrual bleeding urban/town environment? This Everyone is equal! the fasting serum vitamin A loss. Chaste tree, on the other bleeding. September 4 – October 1, 2020 45 people Health & Lifestyle

Do we understand our one-year old? Why do we o the first year of life is where you go must be won- it seems to be a baby’s way of sometimes find it over. At the age of one, derful. The world gets bigger. exploring the potential safety of hard to understand babies who are still very The process of learning to walk the world. Sphysically and emotionally and feeling confident enough Playing with our baby children? dependent on others, face for those first steps is psycho- and paying close attention to different kind of developmental logical as well as physical. It is following his or her lead can challenges and joys. another major emotional leap, help us understand something When we struggle with our child’s emotional full of conflict for the baby. Our about their current feelings and How do conversations start? baby may need to come to us preoccupation as they spread distress or behavioural problems what can we Many parents are convinced of again and again for hugs and out before us in the drama of do or what can help us? the value of talking to preverbal reassurance as they start these the game. Child psychotherapy practice is a proven and reliable method of babies. Even if the children first steps. The baby can build addressing and treating a number of issues including: don’t yet understand what all in confidence only through Different kinds of families • difficulties within mother-infant the words mean, they will be repeated experience of moving DO WE Families are different in many Pre-school children: relationship, eating, sleeping, and toileting, separation and getting the message that words away from us, returning for ways. In some families both UNDERSTAND developmental difficulties. have meaning and that words reassurance and finding it in us, parents are living together with can relate to an experience of and then moving away again OUR CHILD? the children. Other families • School-age children: social difficulties, difficult behaviours such being emotionally held in some- have single parents and the as defiance and aggression, ADHD, ASD, learning and attention one else’s mind. Eventually the The value of exploration Diana Radeva emotional and practical support problems, emotional problems such as anxiety and fears, family time will come when the first The first important relationship Child and Adolescent of an extended family, while breakdown issues and relationships at home and at school. words are spoken. Generally the a baby has is with the mother. Psychotherapist some single parents rely more • Adolescents and young people (up to 27): trauma, time is somewhere towards the Quite naturally the mother on a close network of friends anxieties, worries, depression, low self-esteem, peer and family end of the first year. becomes the first object of In this series of articles Diana or local services. However the relationships problems, gender identity difficulties. For our one-year old, every fascination and curiosity. One Radeva sets out to consider group is made up, its family new move forward comes at a can imagine the kind of ques- has its own culture and ways of the emotional life of children BPsych (Hons) MPsych Clin Mpsych psych cost. The world of language is a tions: What is the mother on from birth onwards; and how thinking about children. DIANA RADEVA joy and can link the young child the inside? How does her breast relationships between children All families undergo strain Child and Adolescent Psychotherapist up with others in a wonderful, come to be full of milk? Who and parents evolve over time. at different times; this is part Over 15 years of experience. ICP Registeredt, MACP enriching way. At the same time does she love? And so on. If this It is a view of human growth, of life. The pressure might making new links with others kind of intense curiosity can be which recognises the importance be emotional or financial: the 083 8930386 [email protected] inevitably means being more tolerated without too much wor- of strong feelings experienced at marriage might be in difficulty, separate from the intensity of ry, by mother and baby, then the each stage of development; thus one of the parents may have offering ways that parents might that first mother-baby relation- baby will feel confident to take left the family, there may be or confusing feelings. adult concerns. It doesn’t help a find helpful when wanting to ship. This is an emotional leap, such curiosity even further. a bereavement or a long-term For pre-verbal children this better understand their children’s young child to know the ins and as well as cognitive, and babies For a one-year-old, what illness to cope with, unemploy- kind of thoughtful adult contain- growth. outs of financial difficulties, a need to do it in their own time. first began as a fascination with ment, long periods of absence ment is an essential step to help- marital disagreement or blow- Through stories, books and everything about the mother This is the extraordinary story from home and so on. Whatever of the ‘ordinary development’ as ing them deal with a crisis in by-blow accounts of a parent nursery rhymes, parents are can now be transferred into it is, children are never immune seen and experienced by a parent the family. They are not mature or sibling’s illness. However a introducing their babies to a fascination and curiosity in to what is happening in the and a child psychotherapist. enough to emotionally digest simple, honest presentation of the creativity of language and everything else. Parents who family even when they are too problems on their own and their the situation can do much to narrative. They are reinforcing encourage this curiosity are at young to put their feelings into uncontained distress will inev- unburden them. an understanding of the way the same time supporting their words. This can often be a very itably spill out in other ways During such times, some language can be used to hold a one-year-old’s emotional and can thrive and develop. Where- painful realisation for parents – behaviour, eating, sleeping, families find another perspec- story together – their own story psychological development – as the baby’s first fascination is who have, above all, wanted to bed-wetting, physical symptoms tive helpful and will often or perhaps someone else’s. helping them to move on and their mother and all she contains protect their children. But, in and so on. Young children who contact their general practitioner engage with enthusiasm in the in her heart, mind and body, fact, recognising that family is- have some words may want to (GP) who can refer them to First steps and building up wider world. this progresses to something sues will affect all its members, talk about the problem. Being local services. confidence more symbolic; a fascination of and so allowing yourself to be open and receptive to this does Everything does change when Play containers in general. Finding in touch with your child’s expe- not mean going into detail with Continued next month. our baby starts moving. The Play is a wonderful arena in a container or a containing rience, is the first step towards our child, especially when the feeling of being in charge of which curiosity and imagination space and putting things inside helping them digest any painful problem essentially involves

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Mercury rules of the month brings the specu- month, when Mercury in Libra, established structures of Saturn. retrograde since mid May and the sign of Virgo and acts as a lation of the last two weeks to the sign of justice and balance, This month will see this energy this has contributed to the sense go-between or herald of news fruition. Venus, planet of social connects positively to Jupiter, dynamic acted out on the world of frustrated plans and an inabil- and information. In the last two connections, sharing and plea- the natural ruler of law, There is stage but also in our own com- ity to reach any goals. The main weeks of the month it connects sure, makes a conflicting angle a twofold pattern emerging this munities and even our homes as theme of the month becomes with Saturn, Pluto and Mars so it with Saturn, planet of limitation, month; the force of restriction, opinions and ideologies collide. clear now as Jupiter starts to may bring out the true intention boundaries and authority. So limitation and control on one Mars spends a much longer time make ground again in the zodiac of the people or organisations this week could see opposition side and justice, righteousness in its home sign Aries this year sign of Capricorn. There could that these dominant planets ASTROLOGY to further limits on our ability to and morality on the other. due to a retrograde that begins be a slow increase in common represent. Mercury is in Libra socialise. As Venus moves along Until next year these two will on September 9 and continues to sense and a desire for more for most of this month and that Kate Arbon she challenges Mars on Sep- battle for priority and the lines mid November. This retrograde practical solutions as we begin puts the focus on our social lives tember 4, we can expect a lack between the two will frequently Mars has us rethinking the battle to understand to what extent and relationships. But in the last Kate Arbon is an astrologer, of social harmony with signs of be blurred. plan, and if we have the cour- our choices are limited now. week of September it moves into writer and spiritual teacher. contention and unrest emerging. We also have an ongoing age, we can turn our attention We are likely to see additional Scorpio. This is when hidden Living in West Cork for Before the first week is out there challenging aspect between the inwards to focus on the battle of regulation and further promotion truths come to the surface and over 20 years she gives is a shift in the general tone of fiery and assertive Mars in its confronting the self and our own of certain ideals, in the effort to all manner of taboo subjects get personal consultations locally things when Venus moves into own sign of Aries and the stub- inner conflicts. At worst we will control and limit popular expec- an airing. To end the month we and internationally using the sign of Leo within hours born Saturn in its own sign of simply blame those closest to us tations or social aspirations. We see Saturn come out of its retro- traditional natal and Horary of Mercury moving into Libra. Capricorn. This is another pat- as the source of our discomfort will be under pressure to choose grade phase and head towards astrology. Communication, information tern with us for several months and discontent. self-discipline and austerity to the end of its time in Capricorn email: astro@katearbon and social connection get to ahead. These two archetypal The sense of tides, or more meet the requirements and goals and the end of an era in mid www.katearbon.com have more traction as these two forces act like a fast moving accurately, undercurrents turning of those in authority. December. planets move away from the energy hitting a solid object. may become amplified when The Virgo New moon on The September Full Moon influence of the difficult and Eventually one gives way to the big beneficial planet Jupiter the 17th connects with the two is at 11° Pisces on September 2 restrictive planets Mars and the other and both are changed finally moves out of it’s retro- heavy weight planets Saturn at 6.22am and the New Moon Saturn. More positivity and a in the process. We have a lot of grade, or apparent backward and Pluto, which highlights is at 26° Virgo on September brighter outlook becomes appar- assertive fight energy, Mars, in phase. This planet of goodwill the trend towards greater 17 at 12pm

Aries: Doing your best work and taking pride in it Virgo: During this time you can make an impression Aquarius: Don’t push your luck now. Joint financial are a focus for you now. You should be able to make on others by making a strong statement to the world affairs and investments are likely to be an issue at this some worthwhile career moves or at least secure your about who you are. People recognise you and are likely time, and it is a good time to clarify each person’s current position so that you don’t have to worry about to follow your lead, or at the least they stay out of your expectations and to take care of any legal business, your financial future. This is a good time to examine way. You are likely to feel more confident and vital insurance, wills, and so on. On a personal level, there how you use your time and energy, with an eye to improving your now. However, you may be so preoccupied with yourself and your is a desire to intensify the level of intimacy and honesty in your efficiency and productivity. Watch out for health matters as you are own desires that you unintentionally ignore other people and their closest relationships and to clear away anything in yourself, which is concerned with your body now, and you may be inspired to begin a needs. Include the ones you love in your plans and things will get impeding that deeper union you seek. Any temptation to make abrupt self-improvement program, create better habits, or begin a new diet progressively better. You should be able to strengthen the bond with decisions and changes could lead to additional problems that you can or fitness plan. someone who has been an influence in your life. do without. Stick to what’s clear and avoid taking on other peoples responsibilities. Taurus: You’re energised and inspired, creatively and Libra: You’ll be torn between what you want to do and emotionally approaching this month’s New Moon. You what you have to do. Retreating from the world for a Pisces: Partnerships, marriage, and one-to-one rela- want to bring forth all that’s deep within you. You ex- while and spending some quiet time alone to relax and tionships get your attention now. You’ll be called upon press yourself more freely, playfully, and spontaneously rejuvenate appeals strongly to you now. You may feel to co-operate and perhaps to relinquish some of your and are more willing to take chances. Lady Luck is in like you are at low ebb and as if nothing is happen- own personal interests for the sake of harmony and your corner so be sure to look for good deals. Social activities, travel ing or you may simply not want to be ‘where the action is’. Don’t mutual benefit. You may end up questioning yourself and attending different cultural events will all lead to meeting people overreact, overdo or over-indulge to compensate for things not going as well as the motives of the people around you. Get to the bottom of who can help further your goals. The dramatic and performing arts, according to your plans. Sometimes it’s best to do what you must, things before it’s too late. Once you have all the facts you will be in sports and games, or other forms of self-expression and entertain- get it out of the way now. You’ll get your turn to please yourself. a much better position to make a decision. Don’t let anyone pull you ment appeal strongly to you now. You can accomplish much if you Competitive ambitions and ego drives are on hold now. in a direction you don’t want to go and do what’s best for you but the set your mind to it. emphasis is on ‘we’ rather than ‘me’. Scorpio: Get involved in charity events or social action Gemini: From the beginning of this month you will groups that interest you and you will make headway have been enjoying the success that you worked hard to in many different areas of your life through the people achieve. Don’t be too quick to put your energy into new you meet and the information you discover. You may projects as you approach the New Moon mid month, be asked to take responsibility or even a leadership role wait until the end of the month. All kinds of creative or to contribute and participate more fully than you have in the past. work are favoured and you might find yourself more closely involved You will enjoy being part of a team or group effort now. Being part with children at this time. There is likely to be some conflict between of a community or circle of friends and building your social network your personal enjoyment and what others think you should be doing is important to you at this time. Benefits from past efforts come home for kicks. Those things that need to be discussed and settled with the to roost. family can be dealt with in the next few weeks. Sagittarius: As you approach the mid month New Cancer: Take a trip back into your past and you will Moon, don’t mix business with pleasure if you want to find the answers you are looking for. Now it’s time to avoid trouble. Not everyone will be on your side over make changes instead of doing a repeat performance. the next few weeks so you may want to choose your Taking time to talk with neighbours and folks you friends carefully and keep your personal thoughts and cross paths with daily may result in more positive and opinions to yourself. With your career and reputation very important smoother-running relationships generally. You’ll want to fritter away to you at this time, you can make significant gains regarding your your time on fun and social events over the New Moon, but this may ambitions. Recognition for your efforts and receiving credit for not be at all bad, things have been serious enough for you to want to your accomplishments are likely now, but only if you’ve ‘done your take a break now. This is a good time to participate in or contribute to homework’. This is an excellent time to look for promotion, or to any community events in your area. engage the support of those in positions of authority.

Leo: Money, possessions, financial security, and Capricorn: This is a time to lift yourself out of practical matters are a focus for you now. You can make your usual mundane concerns in order to get a larger some very interesting professional or business moves perspective on your life. Although it may all seem this month. Be ready to put your money on the table in overwhelming for a while remember that as long as you order to get ahead. If you have tended to be generous keep plugging away you will make gains. You really or extravagant with your resources, you may begin to see the light at can get things up and running if you try. A chance to do things a the end of the tunnel. At the least, it should become clear to you what little differently will make all the difference in the world. Don’t slow your next steps should be regarding your finances. Your astute vision down because someone can’t keep up with you. You have to maintain will enable you to correctly assess the right investment, job or any the momentum. A teacher or mentor who appears this New Moon other money matter that arise after this next New Moon phase. may be particularly important to you later. September 4 – October 1, 2020 47 people Health & Lifestyle How to avoid ‘maskne’ Consider the type of jelly moisturise that helps to those areas that need it, rather conditions such as acne thanks mask you wear soothe and calm skin while than your whole face. ‘Juliette to the anti-microbial action, it Ask any dermatologists and providing an instant cooling Armand Claryfying Stick’ is a gently disinfects skin to deliver most will agree that you should effect. ‘The Ordinary Natural targeted spot treatment that will exceptional protection against stick with a lightweight cotton Moisturising Factors + HA’ speed up the healing process, infection and provide the ideal or washable silk, even silk €7.70 (100ml) provides your while tackling the irritation and conditions for skin recovery lined, both of which are gentler skin with a complete combi- redness. Containing Azela- and regeneration without any on the skin and create less nation of natural moisturising ic Acid, Salicylic Acid and stinging or irritation. I apply to friction than synthetics like factors, made of up amino and Canadian Willow Herb, these the inside of my mask (let it air polyester. After that, it’s ensur- fatty acids, urea, hyaluronic key ingredients will effectively dry), I also spritz my face with ing you keep it clean, especially acid and more. Its lightweight reduce inflammation and the it, as well as applying it to any as the temperature rises and you and non-greasy formula is a blemishes while regulating blemishes that are present, €12 perspire more. I always advise simple but effective moisturiser. sebum, €32 from skinboosters. from Boots Ireland. clients to treat their mask like Lastly an oil free moisturiser ie and selected Juliette Armand All details of my facial INSIDE OUT underwear and wash it daily. that does that little bit more Salons nationwide. treatments, skincare consulta- You don’t want all the bacteria, for the complexion, ‘Avène ‘Clinisept+ Skin Protect tions and classes are on www. BEAUTY dirt, and other pollutants to sit A-Oxitive Antioxidant Water Fast Acting Skin Cleanser and shernamalone.ie. Call 086- Cream’ €29, helps to provide Antimicrobial Solution’, is a 1451551 to make an appoint- Sherna Malone there only to reapply it to your face constantly. I prefer to use a protective shield for the skin, cleansing pH neutral antimicro- ment. You can also follow me a non-biological detergent, or along with helping prevent bial solution without containing on Instagram and Facebook @ Skincare and beauty expert one that is suitable for sensitive early signs of ageing, visible alcohol. Extremely useful in shernamalone.ie. Sherna Malone shares her pores and improving the overall treating and managing skin skin. Nothing too fragranced line. Using microbiome-friend- knowledge and expertise of all appearance of your skin. Con- as this can irritate skin further. ly cleansers are a great option things beauty – from skin care taining a unique combination of Ecover has a great washing too, as they will focus on do’s and don’ts to the latest powerful antioxidants, pigment powder suitable for sensitive restoring the balance of the products out there. skin. Also make sure you buy correctors and a high percent- skin’s microbiome, which will age of moisturising agents, enough masks to last between calm and soothe irritated skin washes. including hyaluronic acid, skin es, ‘maskne’ (mask all in a gentle way whilst also is left hydrated, protected and acne) is a thing and strengthening the skin’s natural restored. All available from unfortunately an all Cleansing barrier. Some of my favourite selected pharmacies nationwide Ytoo common skin condition If you don’t already have a microbiome friendly cleansers and online. I’m seeing in clinic as result of morning and evening cleansing are ‘Murad Prebiotic 4-in-1 mask wearing. The technical routine, now is the time to start, MultiCleanser’, ‘Skingredients as it’s essential for removing Preprobiotic Cleanser’ and Avoid wearing makeup term for maskne is ‘acne me- If at all possible, avoid wearing unwanted bacteria, dirt and ‘Gallinée Prebiotic Foaming chanica’ and it is the result of makeup under your mask. A dust particles, which can cause Facial Cleanser’. You will find the mechanical friction of fabric great alternative to a face full irritation and sensitivity and these online and in selected against the skin. This friction of foundation is to wear a tinted can lead to inflammation and pores to become blocked, pharmacies/salons nationwide. which will only exacerbate the SPF that will not only even out irritation of the skin, triggering your skin tone and any minor clogged pores, blemishes, der- breakouts. When it comes to Hydrate your skin choosing a cleanser for maskne, imperfections, but it will also matitis and redness or rosacea. While gentle cleansing is an protect your skin from the This can be exacerbated further look for gentle cleansers that additional way to protect the will target the acne or breakouts harmful UV rays. Some of my by moisture getting caught in skin, always follow with some favourite non-pore-clogging “Healthy Skin is the mask from perspiring and but won’t irritate your skin hydration to keep the mois- or compromise your skin’s tinted SPF’s include, ‘Helio- humidity, and wearing makeup ture barrier healthy. Opt for a care 360° Colour Oil-Free Gel Beautiful Skin” underneath also adds to the barrier function. If you have a lightweight barely-there feel combination-oily skin type, a SPF50’ €36, which comes in a problem. While maskne isn’t of an oil free moisturiser, as few shades, making it easier to For all your skincare needs, going away anytime soon, a great one for this is ‘CeraVe SA these are a very effective option Soothing Cleanser’ which will match to the tone of your skin. call 086 1451551 few simple changes to your and will help to minimise oil ‘La Roche-Posay Anthelios mask wearing and skincare rou- remove excess oil if present, production which can clog gently exfoliate dead skin cells Shaka Ultra-Light Fluid Tinted 42 Ashe Street, Clonakilty tine can make a big difference pores and increase breakouts. SPF50’ €18 and ‘Dermaceutic in easing the effects of it and and debris but won’t strip your Some budget friendly options FACIALS * PEELS * MICRONEEDLING * CONSULTATIONS skin or leave it feeling tight, Derma Defense SPF50’ €34, helping to stop it from forming include ‘The Inkey List Snow which comes in two shades, in the first place. €12.50, available in selected Mushroom Moisturiser’ €12, pharmacies nationwide and on- light and medium. All available a super-hydrating, lightweight from selected pharmacies/ salons nationwide and online. www.shernamalone.ie @shernamalone.ie EQ And if you are concerned about going foundation free, remember half of your face is covered and people will be naturally drawn to your eyes, so perhaps pay a little more attention to that area of your face – a slick of mascara and a well-defined brow will balance out an otherwise makeup-free look.

Quick fixes For those pesky blemishes that won’t budge look for a dedicated spot treatment product, one that contains ingredients like salicylic acid, which will exfoliate, dissolve any gunk and help break down the debris that’s clogging pores, which causes the blemishes. Make sure to only apply it to 48 September 4 – October 1, 2020 people Arts & Entertainment COMPETITION Join ‘Trad Success’ to learn to play an instrument from home wo brothers from Cork be able to play well-loved of our key innovative features “To celebrate the launch of are on a mission to revo- traditional Irish songs such as is that you can follow the lyrics Trad Success, we are currently lutionise the learning of ‘The Wild Rover’, ‘Whiskey and chord changes on screen giving 60 per cent off all of our TIrish Traditional Music so that in the Jar’, ‘Spancil Hill’ and in real time so you won’t get courses. And we also offer Gift anyone can learn to play from many, many more. It’s also a lost or confused. We have also Vouchers, which people can use the comfort of their own home, great opportunity to impress sub-divided our course into to treat family or friends for any at their own speed and to their your family and friends with three separate sections which occasion. We hope that we can own schedule. your new skills at your next get are Beginners, Intermediate and help people begin their musical Eugene and Hugh (also together.” Advanced.” journey today!” known as the Walsh brothers) The Walsh brothers em- Hugh further explains are both trained primary school phasise that playing a musical that, “Our members also teachers and can play more than instrument can have many have options of viewing and Trad Success has given 10 instruments each! They have positive benefits for your downloading PDFs of songs, West Cork People readers put their combined experience, physical, mental and emo- chords, strumming patterns and knowledge and expertise into tional health and wellbeing. fingerpicking patterns as well a fantastic opportunity to creating the most comprehen- Did you know that learning to as instrument diagrams. We win one of three sive and cutting-edge online play music is proven to reduce really feel that now is a great One-Year Courses. courses, available worldwide, stress and anxiety, as well as opportunity for people to learn for anyone wishing to learn improving memory, cognition an instrument online, as people To be in with a chance how to play Irish traditional and mood?Playing music is are spending more time at home of winning email music. also a great way to make new due to the pandemic”. [email protected] The Walsh brothers believe friends and to meet people from Anyone can sign up for a with your name, address and that learning music should be at all walks of life. Free 30-Day Course at www. phone number before the student’s convenience, not Eugene says, “Our main tradsuccess.com (which you September 14. Please put the teachers. With Trad Suc- aim is to make learning how can repeat as many times as ‘Trad Success Comp’ in the cess, you can learn online from to play an instrument as easy you like) or check out some lesson as many times as you late or missing a lesson. subject line of your email. anywhere, on any device and as possible. We want people to free sample videos on the Trad want and you will never again Hugh says, “Our hope is at any time that fits your own feel like they can succeed by Success YouTube channel. have to worry about running that, before you know it, you’ll schedule. You can revisit any progressing step-by-step. One Both brothers finally add, ‘Idle Words’ from West Cork singer-songwriter Míde Houlihan est Cork bred lockdown by IASCA (Irish As- release of the single, titled ‘Idle know what to expect as I began singer-songwriter sociation of Songwriters, Com- Words’. this experience, it’s definitely Míde Houlihan, posers, and Authors), Míde has ‘Idle Words’ is about taking new territory writing a song Wwho has captured the hearts of teamed up with the award-win- someone for granted. Someone over a video call. But as soon many an Irish audience over the ning double platinum-selling who’s not around anymore. You as we started it felt very natural, last number of years, has just artist Mick Flannery, and know when someone is in your we agreed pretty quickly on released a new single. Canadian producer Danny life every day, and you start what subject we wanted to As part of a new song-writ- Ledwell, to take part in a song getting annoyed by little things write about, and then went off ing initiative established during writing camp, resulting in the they might say or do; it’s about for 15 minutes at a time to write wishing you could have those lyrics and call each other again. things back. What you once Mick had a lovely chord pro- considered ‘Idle Words’, you’d gression worked out and soon give anything to hear again after that the song was ready. Because of recent events I’m really proud to have been a and during this period of social part of something like this.” isolation, IASCA began trials Sinéad Troy, IASCA’s Gen- allowing members to collabo- eral Manager said: “It was a joy an isolating time, and Covid-19 record music!” rate with each other via video to connect Mick and Míde as has brought so much uncertain- ‘Idle Words’ by Míde platforms from their homes our first virtual co-write session ty for the future, that IASCA Houlihan, co-written by Mick and/or home studios, to create to trial. The feedback from both wanted to do something small Flannery, and produced by new music together. was so useful to us and will be to connect Irish songwriters and Danny Ledwell, is available Speaking about the experi- to other songwriters. encourage them to do what they now: www.ffm.to/idlewords ence, Míde says: “I didn’t really Songwriting for many can be do best together – write and National Bike Week with James Waller, comes to Clonakilty Clonakiltywith James School Waller of Painting WeeklyClonakilty classes for junior School and senior of Painting cycle students, This year National Bike Week (September 19 – 27) has had to adapt; like all other festivals and activities they are using the web homeschoolers, professional and amateur artists, to spread their message, host virtual events and organise national Weeklyhobbyists classes for and adults retirees and juniors competitions. The Bike Circus Clonakilty will be hosting a series www.paintingschool.jameswaller.org www.paintingschool.jameswaller.org087 7184399 [email protected] of live and virtual events and workshops including a photo hunt, 087 7184399Clonakilty Community [email protected] Arts Centre intro to e-bike conversion, how to check your bike for road wor- thiness, and how to make your own bike carrier box or skirt guard. Clonakilty Community Arts Centre They will also be launching an e-bike conversion course, as well as PLEASE ENQUIRE FOR AVAILABILITY promoting their on-going apprenticeship program. Jack Kelle- Class numbers capped to observe social distancing her (pictured right) has been chosen as a county ambassador for e-bikes, so look for him on billboards next time you’re in the city! so booking is essential. For all the details visit www.clonakiltybicyclefestival.org. September 4 – October 1, 2020 49 people Arts & Entertainment

NEW SEASON STARTS TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 22! in Screen 2 Clonakilty Park Cinema 8.30pm, €10 per film at the door, all welcome. Follow us on E for updates. Please note numbers will be limited due to Covid-19 restrictions.

Tuesay September 22 Tuesay October 6 Tuesay October 20 Tuesay November 3 Tuesay November 17 Tuesay December 1 THE TRUTH THE COUNTY SAINT FRANCES THE PERFECT CANDIDATE A WHITE, WHITE DAY LES MISERABLES Dir: Hirokazu Koreeda Dir: Grímur Hákonarson Dir: Alex Thompson Dir: Haifaa Al-Mansour Dir: Hlynur Palmason Dir: Ladj Ly France Iceland USA Saudi Arabia Iceland France Enjoy a night out this Autumn with Clonakilty Film Club and help support an international independent film industry by Mark Holland, writers, makeup artists, camera Even with social distancing, unwanted pregnancy, 34-year- lates and inevitably begins to has compelling ideas and an and sound people…even film Screen 2 in Clonakilty Park old Bridget (Kelly O’Sullivan) endanger himself and his loved infectious energy that boils over CFC Secretary set caterers! Many of those Cinema can still safely hold 35 reluctantly agrees to nanny the ones. A story of grief, revenge during a thrilling final act. jobs are right here in Ireland. viewers so we will be oper- bright and rambunctious Fran- and unconditional love. Films start at 8.30pm. Doors OVID-19 has upended What is a year of not working ating on a first-come, first-in ces (played by the scene-steal- Dec 1, Les Miserables: open from 8.20pm. Follow the global film industry, to them? basis. For these reasons we are ing Ramona Edith-Williams), Stephane, only just arrived Clonakilty Film Club on Face- for a time halting film Clonakilty Film Club is just suspending membership for forming an unexpected bond from Cherbourg, joins the an- book for updates. Cproduction, closing cinemas one tiny cog in the wheel that the 2020/2021 season and all with her and her parents. ti-criminality brigade of Mont- Clonakilty Park Cinema is and cancelling film festivals. ensures the viability of inde- films are €10 at the door with Nov 3, The Perfect Can- fermeil in a sensitive district a fantastic 3-screen cinema, Normality will resume but, in pendent film. Like thousands of everybody welcome. didate: A revealing look at of the Paris suburbs. Paired up which we are lucky to have on the meantime, some distributers clubs and independent cinemas Independent films have not the changing roles of women with Chris and Gwada whose our doorstep. They also have of completed big budget films across the world, we provide been subject to delayed releases in Saudi Arabia from director methods are sometimes “spe- some fantastic titles coming up have pushed back their release the link between film makers in the same way as some main- Haifaa Al-Mansour (Wadjda), cial,” he rapidly discovers the this autumn for all the family dates, sometimes into next year, and local audiences. Over stream cinema so access>CIN- The Perfect Candidate follows tensions between the various – with not a lot else happening to maximise profits. The risk is the season, which runs from EMA provided us with their Maryam, a determined young neighborhood groups. When an for the foreseeable, at least we that by then audiences will have September to March, the Club usual challenge of narrowing doctor who runs for city arrest starts to get out of hand, can get our weekly fix of great lost the habit of visiting local shows 12 films that run the our favourites to just 12 films! council after the male incum- a drone is filming every move film. cinemas regularly and many gamut of drama, noir, comedy, The selection and dates are: bent repeatedly ignores her they make. Les Misérables independent cinemas could face mystery and even occasionally Sept 22, The Truth: For his request to fix the muddy road closure; a strategy that risks thriller. Our committee works first feature outside his native leading to her clinic. Despite ‘biting the hand that feeds’. with access>CINEMA, the re- Japan, Hirokazu Koreeda unites her father and her community’s When we think of the film source organisation for regional French screen legend Catherine struggle to accept her as their industry, it’s the big name .com t: 023 883 4141 cultural cinema exhibition in Deneuve and Juliette Binoche town’s first female candidate, actors and directors that spring cinema Ireland, to select films that, in a charming and moving story Maryam’s creative and ambi- thepark to mind – the Leos, Scarletts from many year’s of feedback, of family dynamics and human tious campaign builds momen- CLONAKILTY and Spielbergs – and they can we know our audience will relationships. tum, becoming a symbol for a afford a year of not working… PARKCINEMA appreciate. Oct 6, The County: Eminent larger movement. right? However, Hollywood This year has thrown up Iceland filmmaker Grímur Nov 17, A White, White blockbusters are only part of Tenet some challenges but we are Hákonarson follows up his Day: In a remote Icelandic the industry. The independent going into the new season with acclaimed, award-winning town, an off-duty police chief New Mutants sector, mostly smaller budget optimism. Obviously we hope crowd-pleaser Rams with begins to suspect a local man The Snow Queen: Mirrorlands films that are produced outside that cinemas will be allowed another deadpan comedy of of having had an affair with his the major film studio system, is Hope Gap to stay open and that we can agricultural strife and commu- late wife, who died in a tragic a global industry that supports 100% Wolf show our full season but there nity uprising. accident two years earlier. many hundreds of thousands of are no guarantees in these times Oct 20, Saint Frances: Gradually his obsession for Trolls World Tour livelihoods: actors, directors, so films are subject to change. After her decision to end an finding out the truth accumu- Onward West Cork Toastmasters returns MOVIES THIS MONTH by Siobhán Cronin, continuing to meet online via non-members can also apply gain leadership skills. It is a PR for WCTM Zoom. for a link to the meetings. safe space and a welcoming The new term will kick off Even if you’re just TM-cu- environment where posi- he West Cork Toast- on September 5 at the normal rious, please come and visit. tive feedback is encouraged masters will be back in time of 11am, with hopefully as Simply email westcorktm@ and an excellent mentoring action after its summer many ‘zoomers’ now, as joined gmail.com for details of links programme. Tbreak on Saturday, September before the summer recess in to upcoming meetings or see See 5. Although temporarily out June. Back then, there were up the Facebook page under West Facebook to of its usual lovely home of the to 30 people joining in every Cork Toastmasters. confirm dates Celtic Ross Hotel in Rosscar- week with even visitors from Toastmasters is an interna- for future bery, due to social distancing abroad on some weeks. Any tional club with thousands of meetings. restrictions, the group is other Toastmasters members members who all want to learn are welcome to join in, or how to speak confidently and 50 September 4 – October 1, 2020 people Home & Garden Hoping for a long hot Indian summer ver the last week we has arrived. and chard to fill gaps in the have seen torrential rain Hanging over our conserva- garden. The tomatoes ripened and gale force winds tory is an old purple Beech tree, early, but are also finishing ear- Oon several occasions. Last night I often wonder if it was planted ly. With the muggy weather in 45mm of rain fell and gale force when the house was built but I August we struggled with blight winds blew through all day. I don’t think it is quite that old. even in the tunnel. I haven’t had walked about the garden sighing Half of its leaves have fallen this problem before but with at the runner beans blown over already, and the rest are burned so many different varieties it and sweetcorn strewn across the and tattered. We can only pray is obvious that some are more ground. Down in the mead- for a long hot Indian Summer. susceptible than others. We will ow cobwebs swung between The summer crops have done still have tomatoes for a good high-standing dock seed heads, very well; we are still picking while yet, but I am taking out several with garden spiders sat lots of French and runner beans. A COTTAGE plants that are finished as we waiting for their prey, blackber- I did two sowings of the runner go along. Any reasonable sized ries going mouldy in the damp. beans and hope the later sowing GARDEN PROJECT gaps will be planted up with I really had to remind myself will recover from its battering spinach. that this is only the last week in from the wind and rain to keep Jean Perry As for my experiments – the aren’t many good size pods but hopeful. August. It seems that autumn producing for several more green lentils were a definite those that have developed look Peter is already busy making really good. They didn’t get weeks. Courgettes are suffering Over the coming months Jean miss. The plants were really cider from our (many) windfall much of a chance, as I was short from the constant rain and a Perry of Glebe Gardens will pretty and delicate. They bushed apples so we should be set fair of space and squeezed them couple of plants have rotted share the ongoing successes up well and flowered for weeks for the winter. into odd corners, but some did away. Nevertheless, we still and failures of growing a small but not one pod. We did have Sadly, we have decided to better than others. I will cook have plenty. Salad has been cottage garden using no-dig a very wet late summer but close the garden for the rest a few and, subject to flavour more of a problem, the second and organic principles to see as I pulled up the plants I was of 2020. The changed circum- and adaptability, I will try them sowing of lettuce went to seed just how much food she can very surprised at the total lack stances this year and the recent again next year. weather conditions have left very quickly and regrowth of get out of such a plot. Join her of fruits. So that is something The late cucumbers are it looking less than its best. the salad leaves has been slower on this journey… that I can dismiss for the future. as the summer has moved on. I imagine that our indigenous now pumping out fruit and the We are already planning and I’m (almost) looking forward dried pulse was peas. Next (very) late Kuri winter squash working towards opening Easter to the cooler days for the salad. year I will have another go at are growing away well; no 2021 and look forward to wel- Ironically, it is much easier to temperate climate, anyway. a drying-pea. The Lupins are sign of fruit yet but the tunnel coming visitors back then. grow through the winter, in our I have sown more spinach worth another try though. There is still very warm, so I am still September in the garden Jobs for the month frequent intervals. Watch out start and get well settled in and Lilies may be used in large Keep a watchful eye for fungal too for blight on late main crop established before the onset of terracotta containers, tubs and diseases especially in damp potatoes and tomatoes. the cooler and more challeng- in the open ground. Don’t let or humid weather. Blackspot ing weather of winter. Lilies hanging around too long and downy mildew will be Slugs Plant colourful Aubrietia after purchasing; keep in a cool, more prevalent in humid and Take precautions against now, which will provide vivid dry place if you can’t plant damp weather. Watch out too slugs who will be hyperactive displays of cascading colour in right away. for botrytis (grey mould) on during periods of damp, humid shades of blues, purple and red Plant Sweet William and Chrysanthemums and Dahlias. GARDENING a range of ornamental and weather. in sunny banks, rock gardens, Wallflowers for colour and rich You will extend their colour by vegetable plants. If growing in hanging baskets, window boxes fragrance next spring and sum- regular deadheading. Watch out John Hosford a glasshouse or polytunnel, do Lawns next spring. Aubrietia thrive in mer. Get these into the ground for caterpillar and slug damage. ventilate well when fine weath- September is the preferred sunny, well-drained soil. Add as soon as possible to ensure Continue regular liquid feeding The Weekend Garden er prevails. month for lawn sowing. Prepare ground limestone if the soil quick establishment and secure of summer containers at weekly Centre Keep watering in the morn- well prior to sowing, creating a is acid. Protect against slugs they are good and strong going intervals. ing. Excess water left hanging fine, level seed bed and getting throughout the autumn, winter into the winter. Add plenty of Sweet peas will benefit from around overnight in the cooler, rid of persistent, perennial and spring. Aubrietia may be well-rotten farmyard or stable an organic seaweed based damper air of autumn will weeds prior to sowing. Early combined with other spring manure prior to planting. If liquid feeding at least once a eptember is a month of contribute to more prevalent autumn is a good time to scarify flowering rock plants, dwarf these aren’t available dig in week. This will feed a continui- sowing, planting, harvest- incidence of grey mould and the lawn removing debris and bulbs and winter/spring flower- some of the excellent Co. Cork ty and profusion of flowers. Cut ing and making the best fungal diseases. Clean up dead thick thatch. If a large amount ing Heathers. manufactured ‘Gee-up’. Fork in Sweet Pea blooms at regular Sof the fine weather (we hope). and diseased/fungal-contam- of thatch has been removed, Choose dwarf bulbs to some organic fertiliser prior to intervals, bringing them into the inated leaves at regular and it will be necessary to apply extend the season of colour planting. house. grass seed to the bare areas. and plant in the sequence of Winter Heathers, which The removal of thatch in early flowering. include Erica carnea and Fruit Garden September stage will stimulate darleyensis types will provide Pick late strawberries, autumn the production of the side- Suggested calendar of persistent colour from late fruiting raspberries, blueberries, shoots and runners, which the flowering. October/November to April or damsons, plums, peaches, figs, grass plants develop at this time 1. Snowdrops. May. Add ericaceous compost early and mid-season apples. of year. Apply an organic moss 2. Narcissi ‘January Gold’ when planting. Plant in bold, Protect late fruiting crops killer a week or two before 3. Iris – dwarf early varieties/ informal groups of three, five, against bird attack and theft scarifying. species. seven or nine of the one variety. with netting or a fruit cage. 4. Outdoor Hyacinths. Most gardens will (and should) Complete summer pruning of Plan/plant ahead now for 5. Narcissi ‘Tete a Tete’ provide space for heathers. apples and pears. Continue spring-early summer 6. Crocus – species and hybrids They offer tremendous value planting strawberries. Prune Ensuring a dramatic succession 7. Narcissus ‘February Gold’ and are hardy and free-flow- plums and damsons immediate- of display next spring starts 8. Muscari – grape hyacinths. ering in the most adverse of ly after picking. Remove dead with planning, choosing and 9. Dwarf Tulips. weather conditions Choose sun- wood on wall-trained cherries, planting now, to guarantee a 10. Late dwarf Narcissi. ny, open positions for heathers shorten pinched back shoots bright, cheerful display next Most bulbs can be planted to provide their best displays. and complete tying in. Cut spring. It is a good idea to plant in September. However, Tulips out or tie down strong vertical while the ground is still warm are best left until November for Autumn colour in Borders / shoots. Prune blackcurrants. and the days still relatively long planting. Crocus may be plant- Containers Complete pruning of wall- so the plants get off to a good ed from September onwards. Keep colour going with trained peach and nectarines. September 4 – October 1, 2020 51 people Home & Garden The beauty of the late flowering Hydranga shrub

By Mags Riordan of Bumbebee Farm

ydrangeas are the staple of so many late summer gardens and a Hgroup of shrubs I wouldn’t be without. The variety, colour selection and shapes fascinate me and most meet two of my three criteria in being a fantastic cut flower and a brilliant food source for our pollinators. For ease I’m going to split them into two groups – Hydranga paniculata and mophead. The garden can begin to look putting a mixed selection in Hydranga paniculata vari- a little tired by now but there with every bouquet ordered eties flower on new wood so are still plants worth investing – you can have a little bit of can be cut back hard in spring in to give a great show next Bumblebee magic in your own giving you long straight stems autumn like Sedums and Mich- garden! with huge flower heads; they aelmas daisy. Both of these If there are any voluntary can grow quite large but are flower late in the season and groups that possibly work with easy to keep to a desired height if you give some the ‘Chelsea disadvantaged children or other because of this. Panicula- chop’ you can extend this well such groups that could benefit ta ‘Limelight’ and the lacy into October. As a bonus all from our seeds then please do the trimmings can be potted up ‘Unique’ are two beautiful get in touch – we are only too clearer. We do add regularly and used to create new plants varieties that I would highly delighted to help. and, if there is anything spe- thus increasing your crops. Win recommend and are easy to We have a selection of short cific you’d like to know, then Win! maintain, suiting a semi-shaded videos on seed saving and please get in touch. A garden evolves so you’re position, although both will deadheading on our YouTube Bee Kind happily grow in full sun too. always planning ahead but channel, which may be of The mophead variety flowers that’s part of the fun too. Our help, I know that for me seeing on the previous year’s growth, next open day on September 27 something always makes things so if you’re cutting back only will be much more plant-fo- variety, which looks like small I don’t deadhead or tidy up go to the first or second set of cused with recommendations trusses of Lilacs. I can’t rec- until late spring for a few rea- double buds, otherwise you’re on getting your garden ready ommend this variety enough, sons, mainly because the spent cutting off next year’s flower. for winter and what to plant to for it’s changing colour over flowers give shelter to a wide Larger, more mature shrubs support our pollinators to en- the season to it’s long-lasting range of insects, which emerge will benefit from thinning out sure a beautiful garden for you flowers in a vase. For me, it’s safely in spring to act as a weaker crossing stems and it and food for them. They’ve the beautiful shape and texture natural predator. It’s symbiotic; really pays off to go deep into been busy this year and we of the flower heads and my I provide them with shelter the plant as close to the base as have surplus of seed left over, pollinators LOVE it! and they provide me with pest you can. ‘Ayesha’ is a stunning so as a thank you we will be control.

Progress resumes on delivery of Clonakilty homes onstruction work has resumed on the development of 57 homes in Castle Freke CClonakilty following a tempo- Shutters & rary cessation due to Covid-19 restrictions. The recommence- Blinds ment of work will see the estate A West Cork based company at Beechgrove, Fernhill Road in supplying stylish plantation shutters Clonakilty and associated site and blinds to customers throughout development works progressed Cork and Munster. to completion in 2021. Cork County Council signed Call now for a no obligation quotation a €12.5 million building con- James O’Driscoll 086 6613989 tract with MMD Construction as residential units and store the Clonakilty area and I am fuel poverty for future tenants. www.castlefrekeshuttersandblinds.ie Cork Ltd for the development rooms with due attention paid delighted to see the further As a local authority we have of the 57 units in October 2019. to best conservation practice. progression of this project.” responded proactively to the Consisting of a mix of one, Mayor of the County of Deputy Chief Executive of restrictions associated with two, three and four bedroom Cork, Cllr Mary Linehan Foley, Cork County Council, James Covid-19 and have maintained homes, the development will said, Fogarty, commented, our delivery of housing with also see a historic protected “This housing project is “This housing development due care to public health con- structure brought back into use. being brought from detailed demonstrates best practice siderations. Cork County Coun- The protected structures of design to realisation by a in sustainable design and the cil’s continuing commitment to the Lower Tawnies Cottage multi-disciplinary team led by homes will achieve an A-rating meeting housing needs through which dates to the late 1800s Cork County Council. The de- on completion. Using highly the Social Housing Capital and is listed in the National velopment will make available energy efficient modern air to Programme will see over 3,000 Inventory of Architectural Heri- a large number of high-quality, water based heating systems social houses provided in the tage, has been incorporated into energy-efficient homes, which provides dual benefits of a period 2018- 2021 throughout the housing development and will go a long way towards reduced carbon footprint and Cork County.” is being brought back into use addressing housing needs in mitigates potential impacts of 52 September 4 – October 1, 2020 people Sport & Fitness Drinagh Rangers crowned Premier Division champions owing to the Covid-19 pandem- were able to dig deep and get lot of lads during the season and The people helping out on the ic to deservedly seal the premier that vital result.” they have played a huge role in administrative side of things league title. Tomas explains how The club is indebted to winning this league.” deserve as much credit as any- this was a season like no other teenage star Robbie McQueen Drinagh Rangers were once one for the sustainability of the given the long break. “We have who netted the two goals, which again guided to premier league club. From groundskeepers, to been very consistent over the enabled them to defeat Dun- glory by club stalwarts Don lotto ticket sellers, to sponsors, course of the season,” he ex- manway Town. Tomas is full of Hurley and Declan Deasy. The to underage coaches, they all plains. “Our backline has been praise for the ace attacker. “Rob- long serving duo have played an play a huge part in the success immense this year and we have bie has had an excellent season integral part in helping establish of the club. There are also some only conceded something like and he played a crucial part in Drinagh Rangers as one of the great coaches in the club giving ten goals in 14 games, which the team all year, especially in most successful clubs in West up their time to train young kids. SPORT says it all,” declares the proud our last league game against Cork. Tomas is lavish in his Without them, the club wouldn’t captain. Dunmanway. This is his second praise for the influential duo. be in such a strong position.” John Bohane The Connolly family are year playing junior soccer; “The lads have given so much Tomas and his teammates steeped in Drinagh Rangers because of his effectiveness in to the club it’s hard to put into have one game left to play this folklore; in fact the Connolly a game, it’s easy to forget how words. Considering they have season. This will be followed name is synonymous with the young he is!” families and full-time jobs to ca- by a short break before the Drinagh Rangers were successful West Cork League Tomas explains how Robbie ter for, it’s incredible how they domestic season resumes once crowned Premier Divi- soccer club. Tomas follows and other young players like find time for it all. I have been again in the coming weeks. sion champions recently in the footsteps of his elder Cillian Fitzpatrick have blended involved with the two of them Tomas is delighted to be back after defeating reign- siblings, also club players, while in to the team seamlessly since U16 level and their pas- playing again following a very his parents are great supporters. Captain Tomas Connolly because of their work rate and sion for the club is exceptional. uncertain period post Covid-19 ing league champions Extremely proud to lift the cup attitude. “We are lucky to have I don’t think the club would be and he is looking forward to Dunmanway Town on home team, Dunmanway Town, on behalf of his family and who needed a win to retain the quality players coming through in the position it’s in today only helping Drinagh Rangers defend the final day to clinch a teammates, Tomas credits their Premier League crown. Drinagh the various underage teams, for them and they deserve huge their Premier League title once dramatic championship success to the experience on the Rangers had to produce an im- which is a credit to the club.” credit for that.” again next season. “We have one pitch. “To be fair, it is an easy pressive performance, which en- Firmly established as one of Established in 1983, Drinagh more Premier Cup final to look title. Ace striker Tomas job considering the amount of the more experienced players Rangers boast a number of forward to this season, before Connolly captained the abled them to hold off a strong leaders on the pitch,” he says. Dunmanway Town challenge. in the stalwart Drinagh Rangers teams who compete successfully a short break to recharge the team to league glory. “It is a real privilege to play Tomas says he knew his side team, Tomas initially started out in the local West Cork leagues, batteries. The new season will The experienced player, alongside such experienced had to display plenty of resolve playing with the adult club’s both at adult and underage be up and running before we players week-in week-out. There and spirit to emerge victorious. second team back in 2007. The level. They also field a junior know it and we will certainly be who played a key role is no doubt I come from a 30-year-old has now won five ladies team. With state-of-the- looking forward to that. It was in helping his beloved “Dunmanway have a very soccer-obsessed household. strong team with some excellent league titles with his local club art facilities in Canon Crowley really great to get back playing local soccer team capture My parents Joe and Marie have young attacking players. We and this year’s league title Park, their playing numbers are soccer after the Covid break. I the championship title, always encouraged us to play knew a result in Mohona would success ranks very high on his increasing on an annual basis; a missed sport big time and I was from a young age. They also lengthy list of personal achieve- strong committee also ensures delighted with the West Cork speaks to John Bohane. be enough to clinch the league, facilitate an important social so we were braced for a battle. ments. “I have been playing that this progressive club con- League for allowing the season aspect in The Gaelic Bar where That is exactly what we got. We junior for over 13 years now, tinues in its victorious streak. to be finished. It took a lot of omas was thrilled to we often have some important winning my first title in 2009,” “It’s hard to put your finger on understanding and forward play his part in helping were in a very similar position post-match analysis!” last year when we needed the he says. “Compared to other it exactly but if you look at the thinking to ensure a successful Drinagh Rangers win The West Cork Soccer titles, this is certainly up there way the club is run, the accom- return to soccer. The league Tanother top-flight championship three points to win the league in League season ended in dramat- as one of the memorable ones, plishments are a real credit to deserves great credit for that.” title. Drinagh maintained their Dunmanway, but we came up ic fashion. Drinagh Rangers re- just short that day. This certainly given the difficult circumstances all involved,” he says. “There is composure when the season quired a point or a win to regain and challenges we’ve had during a huge amount of work which resumed following the hiatus added some extra hunger to our the championship title from the game this year. Thankfully we the year. We’ve had to call on a goes on behind the scenes. Dunmanway Town earns hard fought cup victory Dunmanway Town cap- the second goal so near the end goals. It was a team effort and I the cup. This is my fourth year tured the Beamish Cup helped us over the line.” was fortunate to be in the right playing with the adult team and It was a nice way for the two- place at the right time to put the he really showed me the ropes. for the first time since goal hero to celebrate his birth- ball in the net.” He has helped me improve as a 2015 after they defeated day. “Winning this cup takes Playing and scoring two player. We were all delighted to Clonakilty Town FC in some of the disappointment winning goals in a cup final rep- win it for Steven, as he is a huge the domestic cup final, away from losing the league resented a huge honour for the presence for us.” title a few weeks previously,” he birthday boy. His second goal Team manager Andrew Healy which was played in reveals. was a remarkable individual guided Dunmanway Town to Turners Cross last Sunday The sides were deadlocked goal, as he weaved his way past cup glory following an absence afternoon. John Bohane at halftime following an enter- a number of challenges, before of five years. Cathal loves work- taining opening half. Cathal calmly finishing with great con- ing with and playing for their reports. emerged the hero with his brace fidence. Cathal loved playing in manager. “Andrew is fantastic; of goals arriving in the second Turners Cross. “The pitch was great to play for. Every decision wo goals from ace striker half. The modest striker was like a carpet. It has been a great he makes is spot on; he is a great Cathal Daly propelled thrilled with the service he re- few days for me. I am over the club man.” Dunmanway Town to ceived from his teammates. “We moon. When I heard the game With the domestic season due Ta hard fought cup victory. The were calm enough at the break. was being played in Turners to resume in the coming weeks, young star, who only turned 20 Andrew, our manager, just told Cross, I said to myself this was Dunmanway Town are eager a few days before the presti- me to get more involved and my chance to show what I am for more success. Cathal and his gious cup final, was thrilled to to get on the ball as often as made of. It was a great day. teammates are determined to help his side to cup final glory. possible. We all stepped up in Winning the Beamish Cup there mount a sustained bid for league “It was a great achievement the second half. We knew we was a great feeling.” glory next season. “We want to to win the cup. We knew Clon would get chances. The whole Dunmanway Town were cap- win every match. We want to would provide a very stiff team produced a great display. tained to cup glory by long-serv- win every competition we take challenge and we had to work We know we are a good team. ing player Steven O’Donovan. part in. We are hungry for more hard on the day. Even when we We were determined to keep Cathal is full of praise for the glory. We will do our best and got the first goal, we thought we Two goal hero Cathal Daly pictured with Dunmanway Town the ball on the deck and keep vital role the experienced cap- hopefully it will lead to more would push on, but they almost captain Steven O’Donovan after they defeated Clonakilty it moving. We have so many tain played in their cup success. success going forward.” equalised immediately. We had Town FC to win the Beamish Cup. They last won this cup in talented players in our squad; “He is a great player and leader. to play well to win butt getting I got great service for the two It was so fitting he got to lift 2015. September 4 – October 1, 2020 53 people Sport & Fitness Strong feet for a strong base end of those nice strong legs against me. As I ventured into and while they don’t prevent to strengthen their feet, ankles barefooted on a flat surface. Put you’ve built this past month. the world of lifting, pressing injuries, they do help make the and legs. a pencil, measure tape or book If you’re new into training, and pulling – it was working chain stronger. Strong ankles This exercise is best done on at the end of your toes so you one of the first things you for me. help to stabilise knees and hips, an even surface, whether this is can see how long your foot is. should learn is to use your feet. One of the first things you as opposed to weak limbs, that carpet, wood floor or a kind of Retract your toes as much as And what I mean by that is start need to control when you learn often causes other joints to mat. Stand barefooted and start possible from your end point using those small bones and how to kick is to use the one overwork. using your toes as small claws (book, tape etc) without curling muscles that most of us take for foot you stand and pivot on, What I am saying is basical- that reach forward and pull the and clawing them. (So don’t granted. while kicking with your other ly: There’s everything to gain rest of the foot (and you) with use the technique described One of the first things I heard leg. I had learned how to grip and nothing to lose, by giving them. Be mindful that it is only above). Find the strength to when I took my first Kettlebell with my toes, land on my heel your feet a little attention. your toes that make you move. retract your toes from the arch seminar many years ago, was or forefoot, kick with my toes So if you haven’t had any It’s easy to slide your foot of your foot instead. ‘grip the ground with your toes pointing forwards or bend barefoot training and rarely across the floor, using your leg I’ve started to do both these and press down as you do the backwards – and now I could walk barefooted other than as the moving point. exercises once a week, once DIY FITNESS swing’. also use my foot control for to and from your bathroom, Walk with your toes for every two week. If your feet are To my surprise many of the this, to lift better kettlebells you can try these two simple one to two metres, a couple of weak, it’s something you can Tania Presutti strong guys, who would lift with correct form. exercises: times, whenever you feel like put into your weekly training double their weight in deadlift, But what if you’re not into strengthening your foot. schedule once or twice, but if looked a little puzzled, as lifting kettlebells or other your feet a fine, just doing it a Danish freelance journalist 1. Walk with your toes they were trying to follow the weight equipment? Or into couple of times a month will and fitness professional Tania The first time I encountered this 2.Raise your arch directions. These gym rats, who barefoot (martial arts) sports – keep them strong. Presutti, who now resides in exercise was when I was train- A strong arch means a springy were used to lifting weights like what can you use your strong I will hopefully have a little Clonakilty, delivers a series of ing in Las Vegas with Master foot that can jump, dance and they were cupcakes and lived in feet for, you might ask. video of the exercises on my efficient DIY fitness exercises Toddy (fight girls). It was the run without problems. As we the locker room and ate protein Well for one, running bare- Instagram during the first two you can do at home. first thing he asked me to show grow older and more inactive bars and chicken for breakfast, foot in the sand, grass or just him – not a punch, not a kick – even a beautiful curvy arch can weeks of September, so please struggled a little with this. about anywhere will be much but this walk across the floor by fall a little flat and thus start check in if you have trouble They weren’t used to training more fun,. Also if you do get using my toes only. He wanted to cause problems both in the doing this – or feel free to write his month I’m going to barefooted, and all of a sudden into running, you might spare to see my root strength. Since foot and further up the chain (in me: continue where I left off – for once – my decade walking yourself some ache and pain. then I have learned this is also other leg joints). taniaskitchenfitness@gmail. with the sexy calves – the wooden floors in the local Strong feet can help the rest of an exercise elite runners use To raise your arch, stand com As usual comments and Tlet’s take a look at what’s at the taekwondo club wasn’t working your legs to do their job better, critique are welcome. people Motoring A car with a big personality issan came up with car is now larger than the first My test car was white with a winner a few years version. It’s 75mm longer and a touch of black around the back when they 30mm taller and the wheelbase arches for an attractive look. Nproduced their Qashqai, which has been stretched by 105mm. Inside black is the dominant co- every other car company un- Small figures yes, but they do lour and I think the roof could ashamedly tried to copy. It was make a difference, especially have done with a lighter colour so popular it became known as for leg and knee room for back to lift the decor. However, there a ‘Cash-Cow’ for Nissan. seat passengers. There is also are 20 colour combinations Then ten years ago Nissan a 20 per cent increase in boot available for body, roof and produced what looked like a space. interior, so you should be able smaller, but funkier version of At first glance you would to get a colour that suits you. CAR the Qashqai with the Juke. It think it’s a four-door car, as the The car is now only available REVIEWS was voted Irish Continental Car handles for the rear doors are as a 1.0-litre petrol, manual or of the Year for 2011. very discreet. automatic. I drove an automatic Sean Creedon Now we have a second So apart from those version, which also had paddles version of the Juke. Nissan eye-catching looks, is the car at the side of the steering wheel has toned down the sharp- much the same size as other if I wanted more power. ly-raked sloping looks, but the compact crossovers? ‘‘The The Juke is different from Juke has never followed the most small cars on the roads of crowd. Instead it leads the Ireland. It’s neat, but the high way, with its big personality,” driving position and funky said James McCarthy, CEO of looking lights at the front and Nissan Ireland at launch. rear, make it a fun car to look at I suppose that’s it in a and to drive. nutshell, big personality. You An improved ProPilot system will either love or hate the Juke is available; it semi-autono- when you see first see it. But mously keeps the car in lane take a test drive and I think you and maintains a safe distance will be impressed with the high from other vehicles. The boot driving position. has two levels and the good I liked the dash, especially news is that there is a ‘mini’ after a few weeks where most spare wheel under the second of the controls in my test cars level. were touch-screen. It was good Prices start at €21,995 for We are told that up to now Juke, approximately 10,000 to have old-fashioned knobs the XE version and naturally the Juke has been popular with in Ireland. As the country gets to adjust the radio controls. the more goodies you want, the young people and older cou- back to normal, I think we will I drove the top of the range price will rise. My top of the ples, who may be downsizing. see even more Irish people N-Design which had everything range N-Design version will In ten years Nissan has getting acquainted with this except running water! cost you €26,950. sold 1.5 million units of the funky-looking Juke.