homes & businesses WICKLOW WE DELIVER!- for 30 years NORTH EDITION Delivered to 44,500 LOCAL UPLANDS CRIME N11 MEETING FLORENTINE DELAY page 4 page 7 page 8 TimesNORTH EDITION DELIVERED TO HOMES & BUSINESSES IN: SHANKILL, ENNISKERRY, BRAY, GREYSTONES, DELGANY, KILCOOLE, NEWCASTLE, KILQUADE, ASHFORD, KILPEDDER, NEWTOWNMOUNTKENNEDY, KILMACANOGUE, LARAGH, MONEYSTOWN, ROUNDWOOD. Tuesday 10th December 2019 5 Eglinton Road, Bray, Co. Wicklow Tel: 01 - 2869111 www.wicklowtimes.net E-mail: [email protected] RONDO TO CUT AND RUN? Sinn Féin TD John Brady has slammed Rondo Foods in Arklow for their refusal to engage with the Workplace Relations Commission. He called on the Minister for Business, Enterprise, and Innovation to direct the owners of Rondo Food to engage with the Workplace Relations Commission to help put in place a fair redundancy package. He also asked for an Employment Taskforce to be put in place. This follows the announcement in November by Rondo Foods of 157 potential job losses. Brady raised the matter business being sold as a engaged in the 30-day in the Dáil last Thursday, going concern. In fact, at consultation process is and said: “On the 8th the same time proposals because they had to. It November Rondo Foods were being put forward to was their intention from announced that the 157 save the company Rondo the outset to cut and run Arklow jobs were at seri- had engineers over from back to Germany. ous risk and that they Germany in the Arklow “During the four meet- were entering a 30-day plant measuring up ings that have now taken consultation process with machinery to be stripped place between senior staff representatives. out and moved to management of Rondo Unfortunately, it is very Germany.” and staff representatives apparent that Rondo “I believe that Rondo there has been a disagree- didn’t enter that process never had any desire to ment on the terms of a in good faith. They have stay in Ireland and I think fair redundancy package. dismissed any cost saving their recent actions back The WRC are the body proposals and have ruled that up. It’s apparent that tasked with dealing with out the prospect of the the only reason Rondo any industrial disputes.

Mia, Emma and Ayia Willis with Jerome O’Brien at the switching on of the Christmas Lights in Newtownmountkennedy Enniskerry, Co Wicklow. Tel: 01 2867928 Rondo unfortunately are major job losses will Ages refusing to engage with have on the town. This to 121 Years Year the WRC. needs to happen immedi- “Given that massive ately.” amounts of taxpayers’ In the past couple of Wedding Fair money has been given to weeks Rondo manage- Rondo Foods in grant aid ment has had perspective through Enterprise buyers for the factory in Sunday 29th December 2019 Ireland, this is a disgrace- to view the premises ful position. including SSE 1.00-5.00pm “Minister Heather Renewables. However, a Humphreys must directly spokesperson for SSE Book your wedding on the day to get a €500.00 discount. intervene and direct the told Wicklow Times Register on our website and receive a complimentary gift bag owners at Rondo Food to “Over the past 12 months Established € engage with the industrial SSE Renewables has over 25 years just for coming along on the day worth over 250.00 machinery of the State. been appraising the suit- “Workers at Rondo ability of a number of Food have been left in a sites around Wicklow Limited E.C.C.E places for Sept 2020 nightmare situation, los- Port and Arklow Harbour ing their jobs just before as possible locations for a Charlesland Park, Charlesland Nursery, Christmas. At the very future onshore service least they deserve Rondo base for Arklow Bank Orahova Montessori, Shoreline, Greystones Food to come to the Wind Park Phase 2. table. “While this process of Contact Rita Byrne: 01 287 0719 / 086 864 4145 “In the Dáil I also site appraisal in both Email: [email protected] called on Minister towns remains ongoing, • Babies • Toddlers • Montessori • Breakfast & Humphreys to establish SSE Renewables can an employment taskforce confirm that it is not pur- Afterschool Club • Large Enclosed Gardens in Arklow given the fact suing any interest in • TUSLA Approved & Insured • Trained that the town is an unem- properties or lands asso- & Caring Staff ployment blackspot and ciated with Rondo www.summerhillhousehotel.com the impact that such Foods.” Limited Availability WICKLOW

2 NEWS TimesLOCAL Tuesday 10th December 2019 Anam Cara parents support vening Anam Cara Wicklow, will host a parent intense grief, pain and regardless the age of your support evening in the Parkview Hotel, devastation after the child or circumstances of Newtownmountkennedy at 7.20pm on the death of a precious child. their death. 16th December. Anam Cara will provide a Bereaved parents can safe and comfortable also visit www.anam- It’s that time of year ilies will have lost a child space for you remember cara.ie, where in their every bereaved parent this year and will face your child with other own time they can watch dreads. Christmas is many firsts without them, bereaved parents. short videos with testi- everywhere and there are including their first One bereaved mum monies from bereaved people laughing and cele- Christmas. Anam Cara recently commented “It’s parents and couples who brating all round. All a are there to support you nice to be in a place have attended Anam Cara bereaved parent wants are on your journey. where you can under- events. The videos, which their son or daughter back During the Anam Cara stand how others are feel- are just four minutes and can’t see how people Parent evening mothers ing without too much each, show parents inter- can be happy and joyous and fathers can avail of explanation and they viewed on topics like A when your world has the support and comfort you.” Dad’s Grief, Sudden and crumbled. from other bereaved par- This Event is open to Traumatic Death, and The Sadly, over 2,000 fam- ents who understand the all bereaved parents Grieving Family. EGS fundraises for Hot Spot new sports hall Christmas Cabaret Serpentine Rooms presents : How the East Glendalough School has started a Serpentine Rooms stole Xmas! This Bella and Jayden Farrell with Hailey O’Reilly at the switching on of the Christmas lights in GoFundMe campaign for a new sports hall. Christmas Cabaret and variety show Arklo. See more on page 13. Planning permission for the hall was secured features music, dance, burlesque, magic, earlier this year and the school is trying to comedy and sideshow all under one roof! raise €100,000 to complete the works by June 2020. This event in The Hot Spot in Greystones is Aughrim Active Retirement Crinken Lantern Walk The school has already raised €30,000 and is hosted by Ms Kitty LeRoux and showcases the hoping to raise a further €70,000 through a ‘Buy a best in local talent as well as performers from Aughrim Active Retirement’s Christmas lunch The annual Crinken Community Lantern Walk Brick’ campaign and other fundraising activities. across the county. is on Friday, 13th December in Hunter’s Hotel. takes place this Saturday December 14th at 5pm. € The school says that “The names of all those who Get your glad rags on because there will be a Cost is 35. Bus and entertainment is being sub- Meet at Crinken Church (beside Shanganagh buy a brick will be placed on the EGS Sports Hall best dressed competition as well as a raffle in aid sidised. Wine will be extra on the day. “Our spe- Cemetery) and bring your Lanterns! A children’s Wall of Honour.” There are 4 Buy a Brick options; of Greystones kitty hostel with some fabulous cial collection this year is for a local boy who lantern making workshop (must have accompanying €100 Brick - 1 Name on Wall of Honour; €250 - prizes. You’re going to wish the Serpentine badly needs an assistance dog. As usual we will adult) will take place beforehand at 4:30pm The plan Cornerstone - Up to 3 names on Wall of Honour; Rooms stole Christmas. have our Kris Kindle and some raffle prizes at our is to walk around Shanganagh Park and then head €500 - Foundation Stone; €1,000 - Lintel. See Saturday December 14th. Doors open 8pm / party. Our Monday walks are continuing for the back for hot chocolate and snacks! All ages are wel- € € gofundme.com/f/EGSSportshall to donate. Show 9pm 12 - 15. winter, meeting at 10.30am with coffee and a chat come. afterwards. All welcome to come and join us.” Bray Choral Society Carols by Candlelight Bray Choral Society's Christmas Concert takes place in Habaemus Choir present ‘Gather Together - Christ Church in Bray on Saturday, 14th December. All Carols by Candlelight’ at 7.30pm on Sunday proceeds from the concert will be donated to Wicklow December 15th in St. Anne’s Church, Shankill. Homeless Five Loaves. This year the choir are joined Tickets, €10, available at the door. Proceeds go to by a small orchestral group under the leadership of the St. Anne’s Fund. Mince pies and mulled wine Alan Smale and conducted by Frank Kelly. The usual will be served after the concert in St. Anne’s fare of traditional carols, Messiah excerpts and Resource Centre. Christmas songs will be performed. The concert takes place at 8pm. Tickets: €15 from a choir member or at the door on the night. Avoca customer event Avoca handweavers in Avoca Village are holding a customer AN EVENING OF CHRISTMAS CHEER event this year in con- Leo the Lion and Sean Olohan are pictured at the launch of the Wicklow & District Lions Club’s junction with Wicklow Christmas Concert, which will take place on Saturday December 14th in Tinakilly House, Rathnew. Hospice on Friday the Top of the bill will be the renowned Rathmines & Rathgar Musical Society direct from their very 13th December from successful stint in the National Concert Hall with the musical Oklahoma. 3-6 pm. Special guests will be Lorna Breen (Soprano), Ciaran Olohan, Kirsty WICKLOW Mc Dougall, Analiesa Evens and the wonderful children from the MYTh Academy. Musical TimesLOCAL BRAY Director will be Jackie Olohan and compere is published by is the suave Jimmy Dixon. All proceeds on the Wicklow Times, 5 Vevay Rd, Bray night will be distributed locally and will Eglinton Road, Bray. benefit many local charities and individuals Tel: 01-2869111 through the local Lions Club. Contacts: • Free Fitting Glen of the Downs Garden Centre • Free Measuring Shay Fitzmaurice, Horkans Garden Centre: Pot Plants, Trees, Shrubs etc: Managing Editor - Service Phone 01 2872078 Premier Timber Domestic Garden Sheds: [email protected] • Free In Home (Free Delivery and Erection) Phone 0404 44735 Ian Colgan, Advice & Design Loghouse.ie: Ireland’s leading log cabin supplier. News Editor - Phone 01 2017675 Service [email protected] Adman Steel Sheds: (Rustproof, No maintenance) • No Obligation Phone 053 9430001 Erika Doyle, Outdoorliving.ie: Stunning outdoor furniture/heaters/ Features Editor - Quote greenhouses and artificial grass Phone 01 2878404 Open 9.30am-6p.m. [email protected] *12 Month Guarantee on ALL Blinds* Geoghegans Conservatory Conversions: General enquiries - Tel: 286 5057 Fax: 201 4335 www.acmeblinds.com Show Village now open Phone 01 6392978 [email protected] email: [email protected] Open Monday to Saturday 9am-6pm Sun 12am to 6pm WICKLOW

Tuesday 10th December 2019 TimesLOCAL NEWS 3 NO HOME FOR CHRISTMAS While Minister for Housing Eoghan Murphy narrowly escaped with a vote of 56-53, and Fine Gael decried the motion as a ‘stunt’, the national conversation nonetheless turned to those who are in need of housing or support at this time of year. General Election presentations, consisting hot breakfasts and din- “These are people who Candidate Cllr. Jennifer of 100 adults and 43 chil- ners, information and want to make Christmas Whitmore, whose party dren. During November advice, social inclusion as special for their the Social Democrats put 12 families were housed initiatives, one to one children and families as forward the motion of No in temporary own door support and recreational everyone else but lack the Confidence in the emergency accommoda- and educational pro- financial resources to Minister, said that it was tion (24 adults and 26 grammes. They also oper- meet the additional costs “disappointing that the children) as well as four ate a supported housing this time brings, and are motion did not get the single adults. 13 families unit. You can contact Five already struggling to pay support of the Dáil as it is were housed in B&B Loaves on for food, heating and Sgt Paul Daly, Phylis Whyte and Garda James Dowling at the annual Co. Wicklow Older very obvious that the accommodation (20 01 2040960. rent,” he said. Persons Council seminar in the Glendalough Hotel Government’s housing adults, 20 children) as For the estimated This Christmas, SVP policy is not working. It well as five single adults. 50,000+ homes who will has again put children at is not meeting the needs The Cold Weather contact the Society of St. the heart of its Annual also launched their Community’s commit- ten or left behind in this Government. of renters, mortgage pay- Initiative, a partnership Vincent de Paul (SVP) Appeal and Kieran Annual Report last week, ment to moving people homelessness and hous- “With the lack of ers or those vulnerable arrangement between this winter the words of Stafford said that is showing a 26% increase and families out of home- ing crisis. affordable and social that have no home to call Wicklow County Council the popular song “It’s the because they are the most in people turning to all of lessness into secure “This week’s latest housing or an accessible their own. It is time that and the Simon Most Wonderful Time of vulnerable and should not their emergency, preven- homes and also respond homeless figures private rental sector, the this Government is held Community with assis- the Year” are totally at suffer because tion, sustainment services to people’s trauma and showed record levels of majority of homeless to account and it was a tance from Five Loaves, odds with their circum- society has got things so and housing throughout addiction by the provi- people forced to access people are now con- shame that, instead of opened on November stances. For them wrong. the country over 12 sion of much needed emergency accommoda- strained by having doing what’s right for our 14th, providing emergen- Christmas can be the “This year we hope to months to the end of last treatment, recovery and tion; we have seen lev- nowhere to go. people and communities, cy accommodation night most worrying time of the bring a happy Christmas year. health and well-being ser- els of rural and long- “Every case is differ- Fianna Fail TDs, includ- shelter for homeless indi- year. At the launch by to the many children The Annual Report vices. term homelessness ent; what is common to ing Stephen Donnelly and viduals. Refurbishment Ryan Tubridy of the SVP living in poverty espe- shows that 16,776 people “These numbers show increasing, along with all is that homelessness Pat Casey, again decided work will take place Annual Appeal last week cially the 3,873 without a used Simon Communities that this homelessness instances of ‘hidden and housing insecurity to sit on the fence and shortly at the Sonas Kieran Stafford National home and relying on services in 2018, includ- crisis is continuing to homelessness’ and those is traumatic, stressful play politics.” Facility in Wicklow, President said, “Last year emergency accommoda- ing 2,834 families with impact on the lives of forced to stay with fami- and filled with uncer- At last week’s which will be operated by our volunteers visited tion,” he said. 5,331 children, up from many people. The Simon ly or friends. We are all tainty. In its work across Wicklow County Council the Dublin Simon 50,000 homes in the win- “Of the 150,000 calls 13,304 people in 2018. Communities around the aware that the main the country, the Simon meeting, the Chief Community as a Family ter period and with the SVP will receive for the Wayne Stanley, country were on the driver of homelessness Communities see this Executive’s report gave Homeless Hub. 2019 calls for help so far total year, one in three National Spokesperson frontline, helping 5,263 is a critical lack of impact each and every an overview of the cur- W.H Five Loaves is a running ahead of the will be from people with- for the Simon people to maintain a per- secure affordable day. It is vital that the rent homeless situation in homeless charity in Bray 2018 figures we expect out enough food.” Communities, said that manent home in 2018. accommodation, and current upward trend in Wicklow. In November, that provides a low that the figure for this The Simon the new numbers under- Our communities ensure this is something that homelessness does not there were 83 homeless threshold day care centre, year will increase. Communities of Ireland line the Simon that people are not forgot- needs to be addressed by become normalised.” Tenants of new Bray supermarket confirmed Sinn Féin TD John Brady has welcomed SuperValu store will be completed by June next." confirmation that SuperValu are to be the Local Sinn Féin councillor Dermot O'Brien said "This is tenants of the new supermarket which will be really good news for the Southern Cross community who located on the Southern Cross, Bray. have been suffering the absence of local services for far too long. This type of development has been a priority for Deputy Brady said that when completed in June next it our party and we are delighted to see the supermarket will bring long overdue services to the area. He further being delivered along with the inclusion of a neighbour- called on Musgrave's to clarify the future of their current hood centre with small retail, childcare, health and youth store on Castle Street in Little Bray. & community services included in the second phase. Speaking after receiving confirmation that SuperValu are Local community services are a key part of a positive to be the tenants of the new supermarket on the Southern response to climate change as we are removing the need Cross Deputy Brady said "I'm absolutely delighted that for people to get in their cars and travel distances for after many years of pushing to get services onto the basic services. Whilst it's good news about SuperValu Southern Cross, it has been confirmed to me that opening a new store on the Southern Cross, there are SuperValu are going to be the tenants of the new some concerns about the future status of the existing 2,493sqm supermarket." SuperValu store on Castle Street. I have been in contact "Site preparation commenced a number of weeks ago, with the Musgrave Group and I'm asking them to give a however the contractor constructing the new store only commitment to keep the current store in Little Bray moved on site this week. It is estimated that the open." ‘Specialist Gardaí needed to tackle surge in sex crimes’ Stephen Donnelly TD has warned that specially trained Gardaí need to be brought into Wicklow to deal with a worrying increase in sex crimes reported in the County this year. Deputy Donnelly explained, “The latest CSO figures show that 57 sex crimes were reported in the Wicklow Garda Division in the first half of this year. That represents a 23 percent increase on the same peri- od in 2018. While shocking, these numbers are not surprising to those of us who have been carefully tracking crime levels in Wicklow. Wicklow has also lost far too many Gardaí over the last few years, and those we do have, don’t have the resources they need. Hardworking dedicated members of the force are being stretched too thin by years of government cuts. “According to my latest correspondence with the Justice Minister, as of the 31st of October 2019, there were 310 Gardaí assigned to the Wicklow Division supported by 32 Garda staff. As of Friday November 28th a paltry four extra Gardaí were added to the Wicklow force. Their addition means that 11 Gardaí have now been moved from admin duties in Wicklow to operational duties. So what we really need to see now are these extra Gardaí specifically trained to deal with the victims of sex crimes.” WICKLOW

4 NEWS TimesLOCAL Tuesday 10th December 2019 Public meeting in Bray on National Maternity Hospital delay Social Democrats General Election candidate for Wicklow, Cllr Jennifer Whitmore is holding a public meeting, with Dr. Peter Boylan and Roisin Shortall TD as guest speakers, in the Royal Hotel in Bray on Thursday 12th December to discuss the delay in the build of the National Maternity Hospital (NMH) and recent revelations that the hospital is still awaiting Vatican approval before the land can be handed over. Cllr Whitmore said “It mission for a religious- Boylan and Social has been 30 months ly-owned site to be Democrats Co-leader since the Sisters of handed over to the State Roisin Shortall have Charity promised that for a maternity hospital, been at the forefront of they would no longer where that hospital that this issue over the last have any involvement in would provide all ser- couple of years to the National Maternity vices, including termina- ensure that this new Hospital, and yet, as we tions. So there is no real facility will be safe- head into 2020, there is certainty that permission guarded for the State still no clarity on when will be forthcoming. and for future genera- the State will own the “Despite this, €43m tions of women. I am site on which the new of public money has Cllr Jennifer Whitmore delighted that both these hospital will be built. already been spent on speakers will be at the The Sisters of Charity, enabling works at the delivery date of 2024 meeting to discuss the who own the site at St site. It is unacceptable will be met, but without NMH, which will be Aisling VanDer Does and Hannah McDonald at the switching on of the Christmas Lights in Vincent’s Hospital, have for the Government to clarity on legal owner- held in The Royal Hotel, Newtownmountkennedy not yet received permis- continue to spend public ship, it is a huge risk to Bray on 12th December sion from the Vatican to funds on the project until continue to pour money at 7.30pm and I would change its status to a there is legal clarity and into something that is like to invite members secular structure. certainty that the project still in private hands.” of the public to attend ‘Funding presentation will “The Vatican has will go ahead. It is high- Cllr Whitmore con- and to take part in the never before given per- ly unlikely that the cluded: “Dr. Peter discussion.” benefit community reps’ Councillors meet Gardai to Cathaoirleach of Bray Municipal District Councillor Steven Matthews has urged representa- tives of community, voluntary, sporting and residents groups to attend a presentation he has organised that will detail various funding streams and grants available to groups through discuss crime prevention Wicklow County Council. Councillors Paul O’Brien (Lab) and Shay that there are people intent on causing criminal dam- Councillor Matthews hand from Wicklow District meeting will take Cullen (FG) met with Sergeant Paul Daly, the age & we shouldn’t be making it easy for them. We said, “There is a huge County Council staff who place at 6.30pm on crime prevention officer in An Garda Siochana all know crime is a major issue whether it’s up in the range and variety of fund- administrate and manage January 14th at Bray Town at County Buildings last Monday to discuss Sally Gap or in our Towns & Villages and we must ing available that groups applications for these Hall. crime prevention and the recent spate of cars all work together to combat this threat. don’t seem to be aware of. funds about deadlines, Attendees should note being broken into around the Sally Gap. Cllr O’Brien went onto say that both he and Cllr I want to make sure that types of projects, applica- that as this presentation Cullen agree that better signage in the area is a must all groups have the know- trion processes and the cri- occurs during a council Cllr Cullen stated that he was taken aback by the and if necessary CCTV as well. We understand that how to access this fund- teria for qualifying for meeting, standing orders recent spate of cars been broken into and urged own- the Gardai can’t be everywhere at once and they ing. This presentation will funding. dicate that they will not be ers to be more mindful about leaving their proces- must utilize their resources as best they can. We all also benefit new council- “This is a great oppor- able to ask questions dur- sions out in plain slight for these wannabe thief’s. know how stretched the Gardai’s resources are and if lors in assisting their con- tunity to get all the infor- ing the meeting. “Sometimes when visiting the area visitors can get we as Councillors can assist them in preventing situents with funding mation on available fund- However groups can distracted by the beautiful scenery & wander off to crime we will. queries.” ing and make a successful contact councillors take some photos, while forgetting to put their valu- Both Councillors confirmed that the next step is to He continued: application.” following the meeting with ables away, which unfortunately can lead to them duscuss the matter at the Joint Policing Conmittee Cllr Steven Matthews “Attendees will hear first- The Bray Municipal any outstanding queries. being stolen”, stated Cllr Cullen next month, of which both are members of and to Cllr O’Brien said that this meeting was important devise a strategy going forward which will include but that it was only the first step in dealing with this an awareness campaign. serious issue. The councillors conclued by wishing everyone a Local businesses facing disconnection He stated “We need to get the message out there, safe and happy Christmas. over unpaid water bills Business customers of Irish Water face disconnection in cases of unpaid bills and overdue debt, the utility has indicated. Irish Water say however that disconnection will be ‘a last resort’. In a statement, Irish Water said “Irish Water is is connected to the service. now responsible for billing and collection of out- “As a minimum, Irish Water will issue at least standing debt from non-domestic customers for one direct disconnection notice in writing at least 5 water service. As a regulated utility, Irish Water working days in advance of carrying out a discon- must ensure that our customers are treated fairly nection. No disconnections will be carried out on and equitably so it is essential that all businesses a Friday, Saturday, Sunday, eve of a Public pay their bills in a timely manner. In common with Holiday or a Public Holiday. other utilities, Irish Water has a clear and transpar- “Customers still have the opportunity to pay on ent approach to collecting overdue debt. the day of disconnection should they engage. They “Irish Water is committed to working with cus- would need to pay the full outstanding balance by tomers to ensure that a business account holder’s debit or credit card over the phone with the water supply is only disconnected as a measure of Contact Centre to prevent the disconnection being last resort, when all other methods of customer carried out. engagement have been exhausted. Irish Water is “Where an account holder has had supply dis- actively contacting customers and visiting premis- connected due to outstanding debt and subsequent- es in a number of counties, including Wicklow, to ly reached a settlement with us through a payment avoid the need to discontinue supply due to non- plan or payment in full, the normal supply will be payment. restored. Irish Water are committed to ensuring the “Irish Water will only disconnect customers if reconnection is carried out within two working they fail to pay a bill relating to the supply of days, subject to operational capacity. water and or wastewater services; if it is requested “Irish Water is committed to working with cus- by the account holder; if no registered occupant at tomers who are experiencing difficulties in paying the property has been established after attempts to their water bills and urge any customers who need determine occupancy or ownership; or if the cus- to contact us to do so on 1850 778 778 or +353 1 tomer has entered into a payment plan and that 707 2827. More information on methods of pay- Councillors Shay Cullen and Paul O’Brien with Sergeant Paul Daly (centre), the crime prevention customer fails to honour that plan. A premise will ment and support for business customers is avail- officer in An Garda Siochana. They met last week to discuss crime prevention and the recent spate of not be disconnected where more than one customer able at water.ie.” cars being broken into around the Sally Gap. WICKLOW

Tuesday 10th December 2019 TimesLOCAL NEWS 5 'Broken Govt promise pushes St. Joseph's towards closure’

Management at the specialist dementia care Minister Simon Harris was gave categorical assur- facility St Joseph's Shankill have informed very quick to take to the ances that the funding staff and families of people relying on its airwaves to reassure his would be provided to keep services that it has been left with no option voters that St Joseph's the doors open. but to cease residential admissions with would be saved when it “The current situation which has been caused by immediate effect. first revealed it was in dan- ger of closing its doors in a the gross underfunding of At last week's meeting funding for the facility. funding crisis. He made St Joseph's by the govern- of Wicklow County They said Minister Simon similar promises on the ment is causing anxiety, Council, Social Democrats Harris would be held to floor of the Dáil. stress and uncertainty for General Election account in respect of what Sinn Féin TD John the service users, their Candidate for Wicklow, he has committed to previ- Brady said: "Last month I families and all the staff in Cllr. Jennifer Whitmore ously and should honour questioned the Minister for the facility. Minister Harris put forward and got sup- his pledge to keep St Health Simon Harris in the must honour the Cathaoirleach Irene Winters and Chief Executive Frank Curran make a presentation to former port for a motion calling Joseph's open and it looked Dáil about the threatened commitment he gave in the Fianna Fail councillor Pat Doran, with his grandson Dan and daughter Collette for the Council "to write to forward to studying the closure of St. Joseph's. He Dáil.” Minister for Health Simon findings of the Nursing Harris and ask that he Home Pricing Review ensure that interim funding which the Minister said is provided to St. Joseph's would be published several Dementia care facility in weeks ago. Shankill to prevent any Speaking last week, Cllr risk of imminent closure." Whitmore said "Only a Saint Joseph's Shankill few short weeks ago, is home to 60 people living Minister Harris made the with dementia and pro- welcome statement that the vides two respite beds and "doors will not close" on an additional 120 day-care St. Josephs. Unfortunately, places per week but has this does not seem to be been operating at a 'signifi- the case, and the manage- cant and unsustainable ment at St. Joseph's have deficit' for over seven confirmed to families and years. staff this weekend that it Management have will stop taking residential informed its 100 staff and admissions with immedi- families of people who ate effect. rely on the facility that it "This cannot be allowed had had very positive happen. There are 60 peo- engagement with the HSE ple living in St. Josephs, in recent weeks, so much and many others that use so that it was happy that its the day service, that rely day-care services could on the excellent care they now be funded into 2020. receive there, as do their However, discussions families. We cannot over- with the National estimate the positive differ- Treatment Purchase Fund ence a model service like had failed to deliver an St. Joseph's can have on acceptable resolution in someone suffering from respect of the increased dementia. I have personal funding required to sustain experience of a loved one its 60 residential places, living with dementia and and this has resulted in this the kind of dementia-spe- latest decision to cease cific care that is provided admissions at St. Josephs can radically Speaking last Monday, improve a person's circum- St. Joseph's Chief stances and brings incredi- Executive Emma ble relief to loved ones as a Balmaine said she was dis- result. appointed to have to make "The uncertainty that the announcement. the residents and family She said "Talks had members have gone been progressing well up through over the last few until the end of this week. weeks since St. Josephs The HSE had come to the first raised their funding table, they understood our concerns in the public issues and we have an arena must end now. It is agreed way forward for not fair that families, who continuing to fund day- already have incredible care into 2020. stress and worry placed on Unfortunately, the talks them, now have to worry with NTPF are not pro- about whether they have to gressing in the same vein. locate an alternative home We will of course continue for their loved ones. to engage but the gap Minister Harris needs to between what's on offer ensure funding is provided and what is needed to sus- and that he keeps his tain this high-dependency promise that the doors to service into the future, is St. Joseph's remain open," still far too wide. We will concludes Whitmore. do everything possible to Fianna Fail save St Joseph's - however Spokesperson on Health, time is running out in Stephen Donnelly, respect of securing the expressed his horror at the necessary budget for 2020, news, saying "The move is and our Board is firmly of a major step towards full the view that there is no closure of the facility, basis as of now, to enable which could happen in a us accept any new admis- short number of weeks. sions at this time." This is despite clear and Management also repeated promises from the appealed to supporters and Health Minister that the staff to continue the ongo- facility would remain ing campaign and that their open. help would be more "What we're seeing here important than ever in is outrageous backtracking order to secure sustainable from the Government. WICKLOW

6 NEWS TimesLOCAL Tuesday 10th December 2019 Smoky coal ban fails to catch fire Councillors last week debated a motion put forward by Independent Councillor Rory O'Connor seeking to introduce a county-wide ban on smoky coal in County Wicklow. Councillors ultimately agreed to a toned-down version of the proposal, as they determined its more ambitious aspects to be beyond the Council's powers, and did not wish to expose the Council to legal action from the coal industry.

There is currently a lems for certain people Minister for Cllr Snell and also Cllr smoky coal ban in place in including those vulnerable Communications, Climate Joe Behan said that the Bray, Greystones/Delgany, to lung infections but Action and Environment Council needed to be Arklow, Wicklow Town everyone benefits in the and An Taoiseach Leo mindful of people living in and Rathnew. long run from having better Varadkar urging them to 'fuel poverty' who cannot According to the quality air to breathe. From introduce a nationwide ban afford to heat their homes Council "Only smoke-free 1st May 2013, measures without delay; write to in the most energy efficient products can be sold in were introduced to improve Wicklow's TDs urging way. these areas. The Pollution air quality in these areas. them to pursue the matter Green Party councillor Control Division carries For the first time, it is an with the Minister; and seek Steven Matthews said that out checks on suppliers to offence to burn smoky coal a formal meeting with he supported the motion as ensure compliance with the in a house that is in an area Minister for Health Simon far as what's within the regulations. Air quality has where the use of smoky Harris on the matter. remit of the Council. He Arklow C.B.S. Principal Peter Somers and Junior Head Teacher Markus Cosgrave present Conor vastly improved in these coal for heating purposes Cathaoirleach Irene said that other measures Nugent with the Overall 2019 Junior Cert Award at the Arklow C.B.S. Awards Night areas since the introduction has been banned." Winters and Chief could be taken to improve of the ban, with a signifi- Cllr O'Connor's proposal Executive Frank Curran Wicklow's air quality, such cant reduction in smog and sought to extend the ban to were in agreement that the as addressing the issue of sulphur dioxide since the all areas. He asked that the Council does not have the idling traffic outside of Wicklow, Wexford and 1980s. Council "introduce and authority to introduce a schools, which he "Wicklow, Rathnew, enforce a county-wide ban county-wide ban. described as "a huge prob- Greystones and Delgany on the sale, distribution and Councillor John Snell lem". are the most recent areas to burning of smoky coal in agreed, saying that the Cllr Jennifer Whitmore Waterford to partner be designated under the the absence of action from Council should wait until said that a countywide air above Regulations as areas the Government on the the matter had been sorted monitoring programme is where 'smoky' coal is to be matter". out nationally at needed to collect “evidence banned for heating purpos- The less radical aspects Government level: "Other and data to back up any with three Welsh councils es. Arklow and Bray were of the proposal requested councils haven't imple- future bye-laws in this An exciting international project which brings together local authorities in Wicklow, Wexford already designated under that the Council provide an mented this for fear of legal area. Part of the problem is and Waterford with colleagues in Carmarthenshire, Pembrokeshire and Ceredigion in Wales the Regulations. The information campaign to action," he said. "We there is only one monitor- smoke and gases from the consumers in Wicklow on shouldn't put our neck out ing system in the centre of was launched recently. burning of smoky coal can the dangers of smoky coal; there and expose taxpayers Bray and it isn't even work- The Celtic Routes project aims to encourage visitors cities into staying visitors. Another objective was to cause severe health prob- formally write to the in this way." ing at the moment.” to explore new areas of South East Ireland and West increase sustainable economic developments by max- Wales en route to their final tourist destination. imising visitor spend, income retention, adding value It hopes to transform less well-known areas from to the combined tourism offerings within the region transit zones to new touring sites, increasing the time through a tailored marketing and promotional cam- Donate a dinner to a horse visitors spend in these regions and capitalising on the paign for both visitors and tourism providers, support- GAIN Equine Nutrition have launched their (IHWT) set out to help the plight of horses in Ireland opportunities to boost local economies. ed by the three Local Authorities. and has grown over the past twenty years to care for The project - which was launched recently in Wales Thanking the delegates for their attendance, Mr ‘Donate A Christmas Dinner’ campaign, which is giving Christmas dinners to horses roughly 60 horses and ponies. Located in - has been developed through customer research, trade Tom Enright, Chief Executive, Wexford County Woodenbridge, the IHWT are dedicated to the rescue, events and workshops as well as cross border visits by Council, said funding of €1.9m for the Celtic Routes in need at the Irish Horse Welfare Trust, based in Woodenbridge. rehabilitation and re-homing of abused and neglected businesses in Ireland and Wales to bring together project was provided under the European Territorial horses and ponies. expertise and ideas. Co-Operation Programme - known as Interreg or the The campaign was launched across GAIN’s social The work of the IHWT also includes promoting ex- The objective is to increase the visitor appeal of the Ireland/Wales Fund. This funding would not be affect- media channels on December 2nd. They want you to racehorses for equestrianism; as well as promoting targeted areas, including through the development of ed by Brexit. upload a picture of your horse tacked up for the festive equine welfare awareness and running educational new trails linking local culture, heritage and the natu- He explained: “This project is directed by co-opera- season onto Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and tag programmes. ral environment. The Celtic Routes project will run tion - both between the Project Partners, between ‘GAIN Equine Nutrition’ in your post. For every entry, Sharon Power, Co- Founder of the IHWT said, until December 2020. Local Authorities and State Agencies, and with all they will donate a Christmas Dinner to the Irish Horse “We’ve had a very busy year here at the IHWT with November’s launch in the Riverside Park Hotel, Tourism Providers - from Glamping and Camping, Welfare Trust (IHWT). an unprecedented number of cruelty cases coming in Enniscorthy, Co Wexford, was attended by representa- Dining and Dancing, Experiences and Escapades.” The campaign will run until 20th December so there last spring and through the summer. tives from the three Irish local authorities along with Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, is plenty of time to get into the festive spirit. This is a “We are really grateful to GAIN for their ongoing the Welsh Councils as well as TDs, Councillors, Food and Marine, Mr Andrew Doyle TD, said: “It very worthy campaign to help horses and ponies in support for all these years in helping us to rehabilitate Business, Tourism and other representatives. gives me great pleasure to be the first to applaud the need this Christmas and every entry counts! and give these horses and ponies a new life,” he Welcoming the guests, including visitors from Celtic Routes Project and their varied consultants on Established in 1999, the Irish Horse Welfare Trust concluded. Wales, to the Sunny South East, the Cathaoirleach of the production of this fantastic promotional clip - and Wexford County Council (the lead authority for the for the vast wealth of collateral that will be available project in Ireland), Cllr Michael Sheehan, said the ini- from the Toolkit for all Tourism Bodies and Businesses tiative was supported by the three Irish local authori- to use.” ties and three in Wales adding: “The project will focus Minister with responsibility for Defence, Mr Paul on a tailored and targeted marketing and promotional Kehoe TD, said: “Celtic Routes is a branded collection campaign to entice our main markets and visitor pro- of tourism experiences that encourages travellers to file to ‘Discover Your Celtic Routes.’” Ireland and Wales to discover the Celtic Spirit by The underlying aim of the Celtic Routes project was offering a number of immersive and authentic Celtic to convert potential visitors transiting through our experiences in West Wales and South East Ireland.” Mobile recycling collection to be phased out

Wicklow’s 2020 Budget contains the objective of removing mobile recycling collection in West Wicklow. Raising the matter at November’s budget meeting, Independent councillor Joe Behan said it would be “a retrograde step”. “It’s the only area that doesn’t have access to recycling facilities and I would like to know what is the justification for it,” he said. “It doesn’t give the right impression considering the fact we are trying to encour- age recycling.” Explaining the reasoning, Director of Services Sean Quirke said “This is a service that we have continued to provide, there are alternatives in place for householders where commercial companies are collecting. The standard of the collection is very low in that there is a lot of mixed waste going into it, so it’s being used maybe not in the way that it was intended. We have had to spend money going out and enforcing and examining what people are putting into the recycling, it hasn’t all been pure recyclable marterial, and what happens is if it’s mixed it all goes to landfill.What we would propose to do is where there is an alternative in place that we would withdraw the Pictured at the launch of the ‘Donate a Christmas Dinner’ campaign are Joanne Hurley, Irish Country service from those areas, over a period of time. The amount in the budget for mobile recycling is unchanged from last year. We’re not proposing that the funding just be cut off.” Manager, GAIN Equine Nutrition, Martin Bolger, IHWT, Ella Bourke Transition Year Student, Cal Nolan, IHWT Volunteer, and Grade 1 winning thoroughbred, Sizing Europe. WICKLOW

Tuesday 10th December 2019 TimesLOCAL NEWS 7 Opposion grows to N11 upgrade options Meeting attendees left ‘mystified, frustrated, and determined’ There was standing room only in the big meeting room in The Glenview Hotel on Monday, 2nd December as concerned locals gathered to share information about the proposed plans for new motorway routes on the N11. The meeting was also everyone, the health cars on the N11 as it route would destroy the attended by local council- effects on children were a would just bring more livelihood of countless lors Rory O'Connor, concern too. cars onto an already full small farmers, whose Melanie Corrigan, "As the meeting pro- M50," they say. families have worked the Jennifer Whitmore and gressed and people "There are a number of land for generations. It Steven Matthews. realised the full scale of routes. The Orange and would demolish an After the meeting, the the scheme being Pink routes would rip ancient ring fort, hit wells M11 'Friday 13th planned, three words through or over Drummin or water courses at many A packed meeting room in the Glenview Hotel Information Group' summed up the mood - Hill, traverse the valley at points. Not to mention the (named after the Friday mystified, frustrated, and Delgany Village, take out homes that would be bio-diversity, economic and councillors looking "Unfortunately, many decades. Hence, we are a 13th deadline for submis- determined", the a section of houses at wrecked or left severed development needs, and for their views and of our local representa- car dependent nation who sions), released a state- Information Group said. Valley View, before mov- from any local village. more need to be sent to informing them of the tives and TDs are still in a sit daily in chaotic traffic ment saying "for many of "People of course see ing on up through Widening the N11 also [email protected] huge concern locally. It is 1990s car dependent congestion. the attendees, the meeting the importance of Delgany Golf Club, into brings a multitude of before Friday 13th imperative that the public mindset, don't understand "Somewhere between was their first inkling that improved transport. But more houses, trees and challenges in engineering, December. Use your make submissions on this the link between transport Phase 1 and Phase 2 a new 6-lane motorway they are mystified as to farms at Ballydonagh and environmental, cost and voice as members of the issue." emissions and climate something has changed. could rip through green why these options have into Foxborough Lane more. community and say No Speaking last week, change and still love the The railway is not part of belts, farms, houses, busi- been chosen. They are before re-joining the "This option too, the so Way!" Cllr Steven Matthews thought of a big shiny this plan, in fact it is not nesses and local ameni- frustrated about the lack existing N11 (or new called Red Corridor, cre- One group that will be (Green Party) said "The road ribbon cutting cere- part of any plan. The NTA ties. The local residents of proper information, parts of what are the ates problems instead of making a submission is only idea Transport mony. It is incredible and (National Transport from Kilpedder, and they are determined existing N11 route). The solving them and it too Delgany Community Infrastructure Ireland extremely worrying to Authority) has left the Drummin, Glen of the to use every possible scheme would need huge would wreck the homes Council, which has put (TII) have is to widen the hear so many of our pub- Wicklow railway line out Downs, Ballydonagh, option - whether it be embankments or flyovers and lives of families liv- together a N11/M11 road, which most of us lic representatives call for of its transport strategy Delgany, Greystones, awareness raising, objec- - maybe eight storeys ing in the path of the bull- working group and is also know won't work or solve this outdated proposal to for the south east. Kilmmuary, Kilmac, tions, legal challenges or high, for motorways with dozers. urging members of the the problem. I have be 'fast tracked' despite "By being constrained Foxborough Lane, and more to stop the scheme capacity for up to 80,000 "None of the options public to have their say. attended several packed knowing little about the to a road only solution it's many other areas are now in its tracks and force a cars per day and costing actually address the real Delgany Community public meetings and spo- implications of this plan. no surprise that the con- joining forces to fight the rethink." huge amounts of taxpay- issues - bad planning, Council said. "The work- ken with many residents "In my view this plan sultants have presented a new 6-lane motorway The Information Group er's money. And all just poor public transport, ing group has reviewed in and motorists, all of is flawed and outdated roads only proposal. This routes." says that the new motor- announced with limited siloed thinking and the ill- detail the N11/M11 whom are dismayed at and has been constrained is a big mistake, the lega- Concerns were way routes proposed as information. conceived desire to pump options that have been these proposals. The pro- unnecessarily to look at a cy of which is further car expressed by locals about alternatives to the "The Cyan route to the hundreds of millions of given and met with posals on a third lane and road only solution. That's dependency, congestion, the motorway proposals improvement and widen- west of the beautiful Glen euro into a road that is not Wicklow Co Co and driving a road through not surprising, the author- air pollution, environmen- destroying the viability of ing of the N11 to make it of the Downs takes a needed, not wanted and ARUP. We have been in green field environmen- ities like their roads, love tal degradation, societal farms, ripping through the M11 have no support more meandering route. not properly planned. contact with local con- tally sensitive landscapes building them (and politi- impacts, economic loss living rooms, or stranding from local residents. And on the map provided "Objections on the cerned resident groups in and people's homes is cians love fixing them) and worst of all continued them on an island "The national roads by the proposers, it looks basis of environmental order to share informa- backwards thinking trans- and it's mostly what has increase in climate chang- between the old N11 and strategy also failed to find harmless. But local grounds, community sev- tion. We have also been in port planning from 30 been done to address ing emissions,” concluded the new M11. For almost any basis for putting more knowledge shows that the erance, health damage, contact with local TD's years ago. transport in Ireland for Cllr Matthews. WICKLOW

8 NEWS TimesLOCAL Tuesday 10th December 2019 New investment in St. Kevin’s Way St.Kevin’s Way is one of 10 new trails added to the Walks Scheme operated by the Department of Rural and Community Development. These are the first trails to be added as part of a phased expansion that will see the Walks Scheme doubling in size to 80 trails when all phases of the expansion are complete.

Minister Simon Harris trails covered by the for maintaining 10 sepa- to get out and experience TD said: “This is anoth- Walks Scheme, involv- rate trails located across the beautiful outdoor er welcome boost for ing 1,962 participant 8 counties. These trails areas that we have in local tourism. My col- landowners and farmers. run for a combined such abundance. league Minister Michael The Scheme contracts length of approximately Investing in our trails Ring confirmed to me them, or their nominees, 500km, with 174 km of also pays economic divi- that the expansion of the to undertake mainte- this going through pri- dends. Thousands of Walks Scheme to 10 nance work on sections vate lands. tourists make walking, extra walks will include of National Waymarked “I want to acknowl- hiking, and other out- St Kevin's Way. This Ways and other priority edge the work of all the door pursuits an impor- expansion reflects the walks that traverse their landowners involved in tant part of their stay in success of the scheme to lands. the scheme, some for Ireland.” date in delivering high The Scheme is admin- many years, who help to The expansion of the quality walking trails istered at a local level by maintain the trails to a Walks Scheme was also and follows the Local Development high standard for the warmly welcomed by Government's commit- Companies. St. Kevin’s benefit of the huge num- Dr. Liam Twomey, the ment to double the num- Way comprises approxi- ber of locals and visitors Chairperson of Benjamin, Rachel and Conor Kennedy at the switching on of the Christmas Lights in ber of trails in the mately five landowners who use these trails.” Comhairle na Tuaithe Newtownmountkennedy scheme over time. and 2.5km of private Minister Ring contin- (The Countryside “The St Kevin's Way land. ued “The expansion of Council) which is repre- covers 2.5km and In announcing the the scheme follows a sentative of the key includes 5 land owners. expansion of the scheme, call for Expressions of stakeholders involved in Former footballer and principal The Scheme contracts Minister Michael Ring Interest earlier this year outdoor recreation in the the landowners and said “This expansion which saw more than 50 countryside. farmers, or their nomi- reflects the success of applications being Dr. Twomey said "I releases debut novel nees, to undertake main- the Walks Scheme to- received. very much welcome the tenance work on sections date in delivering high “Up to 30 more walks addition of these 10 The debut novel from a former secondary Primary schools, a body representing the interests of of National Waymarked quality walking trails, will be added to the trails to the Walks school principal and Wicklow County all but one of the schools in Dublin Inner City. Ways and other priority and will help realise the scheme over the next Scheme. Comhairle na Footballer, Blue Star Rising, hit number 3 in Synge Street CBS has a dedicated teaching staff and walks that traverse their Government’s commit- year, once my Tuaithe has received a the Bestselling Charts in Dubray Bray with a glittering array of Past-Pupils including Cearbhall Ó lands. The Scheme is ment to double the num- Department has complet- renewed mandate from only two children's books by David Walliams Dálaigh (President of Ireland 1974-76), Gay Byrne, administered at a local ber of trails in the ed a review of the Minister Ring to support ahead, thanks to strong local support for the Eamonn Andrews, Eddie Jordan, Liam Cosgrave level by Local scheme over time. Up to Scheme and further trails the sustainable develop- (Taoiseach), and Harry Boland (Volunteer). An Bray native now living in Wicklow Town. Development 40 new trails will be are assessed to ensure ment of the outdoor impressive list of writers includes John Connolly, Companies.Walking added when all phases of that they meet the neces- recreation sector and the Brian O’Nolan (Flann O’Brien), James Plunkett, Keith Ryan played Gaelic Football for Wicklow in tourism has huge poten- the expansion are com- sary standards to be expansion of the Walks Cornelius Ryan, and John Carney who made the ficti- tial and can deliver real plete. included in the scheme. Scheme is one of a num- the 1970’s and 1980’s, winning Nation League tious film Sing Street. Ronan Larkin won the Young Division 2, 3, and 4 medals in an unprecedented peri- dividends to Wicklow “This first phase of “This is good news ber of promising initia- Scientist Exhibition in 2004 under the guidance of hotels, BBs, restaurants, the expansion will see an for landowners and for tives that I expect will od of success for the Garden County. He was a key teacher Jim Cooke which sparked an unprecedented member of the 1974 Minor Football Team that has the pubs and shops”. additional 283 partici- the ever increasing num- assist the sector in deliv- run of success including two further winners and There are currently 39 pants receive payments ber of people who want ering on its potential.” distinction of being the first and only Wicklow team to numerous other prizes. win the Leinster Football Championship. Wicklow Ryan was appointed to the position of Principal of beat a Longford side powered by St. Mel’s, who were Oatlands College in 2005 and remained there until his All-Ireland Colleges Champions that year, in the retirement in 2013. Under his leadership the College provincial decider in Croke Park. embarked on an ambitious re-development of its facili- Longford had beaten Dublin in the semi-final while Florentine set for ties including a new Technology Wing and a state-of- Wicklow had conquered Laois and Meath to reach the the-art Sports Centre. It is an Academic Centre of decider. Wicklow demolished Longford that day win- Excellence where Music, Drama, and Sport continue ning by 5-6 to 1-9. It was the curtain-raiser to the to flourish under the present Principal Caroline Garrett Kevin Heffernan’s Dublin team that went on to win and her team of inspiring teachers. Rory O’Carroll a Summer 2020 opening the All-Ireland in what proved to be the dawn of a member of the Dublin 5-in-a-row team is a recent past golden era for the Dubs. Keith later marked the late pupil. The opening of the Florentine Centre in Bray has been delayed until next summer, it was Synge Street’s Anton O’Toole, the Blue Panther, in the Since retiring in 2013 Keith Ryan has devoted his revealed at last week’s meeting of Bray Municipal District Council. Leinster Championship, when Dublin narrowly shaded time to writing, singing and family. He is Chairperson it in that famous clash in Newbridge in 1981. of Voices of Bray Community Choir who are in final Originally, it was hoped that the centre would be February or March, before the fitout starts, and the Keith Ryan worked as a teacher in St. Brendan’s preparations for their Christmas Concert in St. Fergal’s open in time for Christmas 2019. However due to a opening is expected at the end of the second quarter. College, Woodbrook from 1979 before taking the reins Church Bray on Sunday 8th December. His passion for number of factors, such as retaining the original façade Bray & District Chamber of Commerce have said as Principal of Synge Street CBS in 2002. He was sport and his experiences in education have inspired on the main street (which has resulted in an increase in there has been a lot of interest in the available units at chairperson of the Dublin Inner City Network of Post- his first book Blue Star Rising. It is a literary novel set the need for more steel and steel workers), the archi- the Centre, with some already having signed contracts in the autumn of 1993, and tells the story of Richard tect going into receivership, and recent bad weather, and the anchor tenants are at the advanced stages of (Dickie) Boyle, a member of the Dublin Gaelic the opening has been delayed a few months. contract completion. It is expected that the cinema will Football Team who face Kerry in the All-Ireland Final. The ‘practical completion’ is expected to be in be one of the first units to be completed. As a child, Richard was fostered from his birth family in the inner city to a middle class family in the sub- urbs. He starts a temporary teaching job in a Sheltered Workshop where he meets Dee. This tale of young love is set against a background of life threatening vio- lence, social imbalance, and family opposition. The journey of self-discovery takes him back to his birth family in Dublin’s flatland, and their involvement with drugs and paramilitary violence, forcing Richard to confront his past, a past that threatens to destroy all that he holds dear. Since pre-release last week it has been the top best- seller non-children’s book in Dubray Bray. It is pub- lished by Camaderry Press, an Independent Company owned by the author. A busy 2020 will see the publica- tion of a book of poetry and an historical novel set in the blitz of WW2. Blue Star Rising is available in Bridge Street Books, Wicklow Town, Dubray Books, Bray and Stillorgan and Reads Stillorgan and online at readsdi- rect.ie, and Village Books, Greystones. It is available to order on Amazon.co.uk and Amazon.com both as a paperback and as an e-book. It is also available to download in Kindle, Apple, and in all good online Author Keith Ryan stores such as Kobo, Barnes and Noble, etc. Digital image of the completed Florentine Centre WICKLOW

Tuesday 10th December 2019 TimesLOCAL NEWS 9 Irish Rail slammed over County Wicklow’s poor rail service Representatives from Iarnrod Eireann attended last week’s meeting of Wicklow County Council where they were subjected to a grilling from councillors who vented their frustrations with Wicklow’s rail service.

Irish Rail spokesper- sentatives were more rail investment resulted problem in the south trains from Wicklow 36 son Jane Cregan and hopeful however with in longer journey times east, we have doubled in years ago and that "in 36 Passenger Services regards to smaller to Dublin from size population wise, but years nothing has Manager John Reville improvements being Greystones, Wicklow the timetables haven't changed": "In 1983 I was fielded questions from achieved, such as and Arklow. Irish Rail changed at all," said Cllr on the Irish Rail com- councillors who com- improving services at seems to want people Paul O'Brien. "There are muter passenger group plained about the fre- Kilcoole train station and from Wicklow to use two trains in the morning from Wicklow Town ask- quency of the service installing lighting at their cars. leaving Wicklow town, ing for rail improve- south of Bray and the Rathdrum train station. "Irish Rail has no plan 6.30am and 7.30am, ments. At that stage we failure of the service to Mr Reville agreed that to improve the service packed to capacity." had two morning trains meet the demands of the "It's high time Kilcoole south of Bray. This is Cllr Gail Dunne said and 36 years later we population increase over benefitted from things why I wrote a plan to "a lot of new housing still have two morning a number of years. like a ticket vending provide three trains of estates have been built in trains and I know you Councillors put a machine and other 'stan- eight carriages from Wicklow but the service haven't had investment number of suggestions dard platform furniture' Arklow and 50% more for the last ten years but to the representatives, such as a shelter and DARTS to Greystones. in 36 years nothing has including the possibility things like that. I have The latter idea has been changed. of a 20-minute DART looked into the prospect shown to be possible by "The Jacobs report is service from Greystones, of extending the car the Jacobs Engineering the first report that has an extra stop being park, because it's a nar- study. come up with a plan to added at Charlesland, row type car park, it's not "The 2018 Rail & produce the possibility of and increasing the fre- fit for purpose. We are Commuter Transport a better service and I quency of trains from not a landowner in the Plan for East Wicklow, think Cllr Mitchell has to Wicklow Town. area. Sometimes our prepared by myself and be commended for EJ Fanning presents Stephen Nolan with the Fintan Fanning However, a lack of holding company, CIE, presented to the Council putting all of that time Endeavour Award at the Arklow C.B.S. Awards Night. funding means that the benefits from holding last year, needs to be and effort in himself to major problems with adjacent land, but we implemented, as does the come up with something Wicklow's rail service don't own land at Greystones Service that gave a working are unlikely to be Kilcoole, so the prospect Improvement Study by framework to try and addressed any time soon, of extending the platform Jacobs for the NTA in Cllr Mary Kavanagh produce a better service. 33 enforcement notices and the National isn't going to be an easy April 2019. We will certainly be Transport Authority one for us but we will "In the shorter term, has not been improved to making representations (NTA) has excluded the take a look at the plat- some of the 41 new car- meet the demand. There but you need to go back issued to local quarries Wicklow railway line riages ordered by the are only five trains going to the NTA from this from its transport strate- Government should be into Dublin per day." Thirty-three enforcement notices have been issued to quarries in gy for the South East. used to lengthen the Independent council- Co. Wicklow since new legislation was introduced in 2012 requir- Mr Reville said he had 5:50am train from Gorey. lor Mary Kavanagh ing quarries to register and comply with national regulations. not heard of Charlesland: Preferably this train described Wicklow's "I don't know would then be run 30 transport situation as "a The information was revealed at last week’s meeting of Wicklow Charlesland, but I do minutes later when there perfect storm": and being County Council following a question from Cllr Jennifer Whitmore, who know that we don't have is greater demand and in a state of "chaos". She observed that Wicklow was excluded form an RTE Investigates pro- plans under our National available track space at said "the transport situa- gramme on the topic of unauthorised quarries which aired recently. Development Plan Bray Head. The 9:05am tion in this part of the Reponding to Cllr Whitmore, Director of Services Sean Quirke said that (NDP) or any other train from Wicklow country is in dire straits the Council had issued 33 enforcement notices to quarries since the forum to develop either a should stop in Kilcoole. at the moment. If you are legislation was introduced. new station or indeed to Space must be left for a commuter you would He explained that 11 cases still remain open and nine quarries have bring back to life stations Wicklow trains to get to know about it; the roads ceased operations. One case is currently making its way through the High that may have existed at Cllr Derek Mitchell Dublin at rush hour." are blocked, there are not Court and Mr Quirke said there is a challenge as to whether it is unautho- a point in time." Councillors Jennifer enough trains, it's the rised, while another quarry is due for a review next year but currently Ms Cregan explained form itself and a vending Whitmore and Lourda perfect storm, it couldn't there is nothng being quarried there anyway. that "The only new sta- machine and tag on tag Scott were also vocal be any worse. We need Mr Quirke added that the Council had supplied these figures to the tion under the NDP is at off facilities." about the rail problems to have joined up think- Cllr Irene Winters RTE investigates programme but that they weren’t included in the Woodbrook, north of Speaking last week, affecting the Greystones ing, we need to have programme. Bray. It's the only one Cllr Derek Mitchell said Municipal District, while everyone on board, we meeting and tell them that is planned, that is "The N11 overfills while the Wicklow Municipal need to try and sort out you are looking for the not to say that in the Irish Rail keeps the rail District councillors also these problems. funding to see if this is future that won't line south of Greystones had much to complain Cathaoirleach Irene viable, because in 36 change." virtually empty at rush about. Winters said that she years there has been no The Irish Rail repre- hour. The most recent "There is a major campaigned for extra other answer."

Riverview House Tel: 01 276 1330 Fax: 01 276 1336 ‘End commuter nightmare before Christmas’ Seapoint Road, Web: www.benvillerobinson.ie Bray, Co. Wicklow E-mail: [email protected] Stephen Donnelly TD has claimed that a these changes help lem we're facing. simple 3-point plan could help end the shave hours off the "Longer term we're commuter nightmare on one of Wicklow's length of time it takes to looking at the need for Personal Injury Lawyers* busiest roads before Christmas. get to and from the city employers to offer their centre, the shift towards staff flexi time to stag- Medical Negligence* Catastrophic Injuries* Deputy Donnelly "Step 1) Turn the hard public transport is also ger the number of cars explained, "If you ask shoulder on the N11 into much kinder to the envi- on the road during rush Workplace Accidents* Road Traffic Accidents* most people who drive a dedicated bus corridor ronment. One of the hours and we need the Trips and Falls* from Wicklow into in both directions; Step biggest obstacles to peo- Government to create Dublin City Centre if 2) Increase the number ple leaving their car at decent work opportuni- For professional, confidential and expert legal advice regarding they could have one of express bus services home is the lack of ties in all the commuter Personal Injuries suffered, please do not hesitate to contact Christmas wish, I bet on offer and increase the available alternatives. belt counties. Brian Robinson or Clare-Ann Temple. many of them would frequency of the exist- Under this simple 3- "If the Transport say that they would ing express buses such point plan, buses are Minister wants to be Rory P. Benville B.C.L. like a shorter daily as the 84X; Step 3) increased, access is taken off the naughty commute. Well that is Double the number of Stephen Donnelly TD improved, and journey list I suggest he tries to Brian Robinson B.B.L.S., L.L.M. entirely possible if the 'Park and Ride' facilities times are slashed. In follow the 3-point plan Eilish Bradshaw B.A., L.L.B., L.L.M. Transport Minister just in Wicklow Town, Kilmacanogue, other words, it offers an before Christmas is Clare-Ann Temple L.L.B. makes these three sim- Greystones, Bray, Rathdrum and Ashford. immediate solution to over", concluded ple changes. Enniskerry, Delgany, "Not only would current gridlock prob- Donnelly. *In contentious business, a solicitor may not calculate fees or other charges as a percentage or proportion of any award or settlement WICKLOW

10 FEATURE TimesLOCAL Tuesday 10th December 2019

Carol Singing in Greystones with Cecil Beare Ecumenical Group It is hard to believe that it is time, once more, starting point each evening) and finish around 9.30. to dig out the torch and gloves, don the stout No musical skill required though greatly valued if it shoes and the Santa hat and head out into the is present. Collectors are as valuable as singers and wintry evening. it is great exercise as well as being fun. Last year we collected over €5,000 for the following local However, it is that time again, so the Cecil Beare charities: the Poor Funds of the four Greystones Ecumenical Carol Group are calling on people to churches, Five Loaves, Open Door, Greystones join them for at least one evening as they sing Cancer Support Group, Alice Leahy Trust, and around Greystones. Tiglin. This is a difficult year for charities, so we “If you can’t come out with us, please have some need your help. If callers come to your door, please cash available as we are not equipped to use cards. ask them who they represent and ask to see their We start every evening at 7.20pm (see below for the permit.” Greystones’ own Making Waves Youth Theatre is delighted to present Lost in Transit by Ciarán Starting Points: 7.20pm SHARP Coogan, which comes to Whale Theatre on Thursday 12th December. When a group of bored teenagers are stuck on a delayed train, a battered old suitcase takes them to unexpected places. In Wednesday, 11th. December, Nature’s Gold Shop for Burnaby area. this lively and engaging play, two contrasting and entertaining stories emerge as our travellers Thursday, 12th. December, Grattan Pk. Nr. Donnybrook Fair for Grattan Pk. Kindleston area and audience explore the imaginative possibilities of a suitcase lost in transit. Monday, 16th. Applewood Heights Vet. Clinic for Applewood, Oaklands Director: Ciarán Coogan. Cast: Aleisha Archer, Archer Bradshaw, Rosie Carter, Michael Clarke, Tuesday 17th. Fenton’s Shop for Hillside Cian Crean, Eoin Davy, Medbh Devereux, Aisling Dillon-Roberts, Conor Doyle, Alice Jolyet- Wednesday, 18th. Brady’s Shop for Mountainview Park, New Road, Lr. Rathdown Park Cunningham, Amy Kennedy, Lina Kolipost, Katie, Lacey Curtis, Conor Lowe, Ciara Shortt, Thursday, 20th. Fenton’s Shop for Heathervue, Gráinne Shortt, Ruben Sweeney, and Emily Tierney. Thursday 12th December at 6.30pm (Doors Monday, 23rd. Top of Rathdown Pk. for Rathdown, Redford Park. € 6pm) and 8.30pm (Doors 8pm) Tickets 10 Wrap up warmly and bring gloves and a torch and if possible a high-vis jacket or reflective bands . See www.whaletheatre.ie or call the booking office on 01 2010550 Children under 13 must be accompanied by an adult. Any queries to Ruth Handy, 287 5161. Shop local in Greystones ‘A magical weekend from The Christmas spirit has truly arrived in Greystones now that the lights are on and the tree is on display. There was a huge turnout out the lighting ceremony with everyone full of festive cheer. start to finish’ Everyone’s thoughts Greystones from further Centre, there are many Greystones, you can relax The highlight was American Trilogy, a joint rendi- are now focused on afield to do their shop- outlets to explore in with a drink or meal in The recent Holyhead/Greystones Twinning tion, which received a standing ovation. The Magee Christmas shopping, and ping, will find it a stress- Greystones. A look one of the town’s excel- Celebrations were ‘just magical, from start to Family, a five trad/folk band of fie brothers from Greystones, well serviced free experience with plen- through the advertise- lent pubs, cafes or restau- finish’, Kathleen Kelleher said. Holyhead, played during the interval. They went by the 84 and 184 bus, is ty of parking available. ments on this page will rants, without having to down a treat with their rousing music, they are very a hassle-free option for Also, in the run-up to illustrate the great choices worry about a long com- The event saw a delegation from Holyhead visit talented musicians and singers indeed. the hard-pressed shopper. Christmas you can have that are available and mute back home. Greystones on the weekend of the Christmas Lights There was not one disappointed member of the full If you shop in Greystones, two hours free parking. should inspire many cre- For all of these reasons switch-on celebrations. house audience. Everyone went away happy! Many you’ll be spared having to This will certainly help ative ideas for the best and more, Greystones is “First of all, a very big thank you to everyone who thanks to GRFC for great hospitality. walk very far with heavy you to shop local and sup- Christmas gifts. Butchers, well worth keeping in played a role in their success,” said Kathleen. Next on the Twinning Agenda is a trip by shopping bags as all the port your community. bakers, off-licenses and mind in the run-up to this “Our Twinning Celebrations included Holyhead Greystones to Holyhead for St. David’s Day, on 1st shops are within walking Greystones is ever- supermarkets can stock Christmas. So, pop down participation in the town’s Christmas Lighting March 2020. Renewed thanks again to all who trav- distance of each other. If changing and new shops your Christmas kitchen, to Greystones and pick up Ceremony. Greystones 2020 and Greystones elled over from Holyhead.” you’re a Greystones resi- and businesses are pop- and allow you to see out your Christmas supplies Municipal District held their best event ever. Well dent you might also be ping up all the time. From the season in some style. this year without any done! able to walk to and from Church Road to the As for gifts, Greystones stress or hassle. The fes- “The entertainment on the day and Santa were the town without needing Harbour, from has you covered. tive season in Greystones superb.Santa stayed on site for every single child. to take the car out. Charlesland to the After your day of shop- is certainly worth investi- “The Concert with Holyhead and Even those traveling to Meridian Shopping ping locally in gating! Newtownmountkennedy Male Voice Choirs was out- standing. Held in Greystones Rugby Club, the men raised the roof and continued their singing later at the Parkview Hotel in Newtownmountkennedy where the contingent was staying. The Parkview Hotel gave our Holyhead visitors a very warm welcome. They were delighted with their stay there. “The concert included light classical and familiar songs. The two choirs sang separately and then joined forces for the finale. Delgany Carol Service The Delgany Carol Service will take place on Wednesday 11th December at 7pm outside Delgany Mart. Bring your voices, instruments, and holiday cheer! There will be mulled wine, mince pies and treats for all. Everyone is welcome to attend. There Santa is welcomed to Greystones by the local will be a collection on non-perishable donations on Gardai for the switching on of the Christmas Santa’s elves lending a hand at Greystones’ christmas lights switch-on the night for the local Vincent de Paul Society. lights. WICKLOW

Tuesday 10th December 2019 TimesLOCAL FEATURE 11

Two hours of Bolshoi Ballet Live free parking at Whale Theatre: on Saturdays The Nutcracker On Christmas Eve, Marie’s Nutcracker doll magically transforms Shoppers will enjoy two hours free Christmas parking in all Pay and into a prince and their wonderful adventure begins... Display Parking areas in Greystones on each Saturday for the month The holiday classic returns to the majestic Bolshoi stage for a live broadcast of a of December. timeless story, The Nutcracker, taking audiences of all ages on a magical journey This initiative to support local busi- the town on Sundays. through a world of enchantment complete with dancing snowflakes and dolls that ness was agreed by the Cathaoirleach and There are 460 free parking spaces have come to life, accompanied by Tchaikovsky’s beloved score, with Members of Greystones Municipal available in Greystones Park & Ride car Choreography by Yuri Grigorovich and Libretto by Yuri Grigorovich. District who are encouraging shoppers to park 365 days of the year. Cast: The Bolshoi Principals, Soloists and Corps de Ballet. avail of the free parking to shop locally Free parking daily between 9am and There will be a full Bar, Wicklow Farmhouse Cheeseboards, Fresh Popcorn and Confectionery available to buy on the night. and enjoy the range of services on offer 10am and 15 minutes grace period is € € in Greystones. allowed on commencement of parking. Sunday 15th December at 3pm (Doors 2.30pm) Tickets 20/ 17.50. Wardens will be on duty to monitor Cashless parking is available in See www.whaletheatre.ie or call the booking office on 01 2010550 and enforce illegal parking each Greystones using Parking Tag which Saturday. allows motorists to park by phone and Free parking is available in the car extend parking times without returning to Ross McParland from Whale Theatre with Cllr parks at South Beach, Trafalgar Road the vehicle. Details available on Gerry Walsh at the switching on of the and La Touche Road throughout the www.parkingtag.ie, motorists can register Christmas Lights in Greystones. Pic: John year, every Saturday and throughout online or on the Parking Tag mobile app. McGowan What’s on... Coffee & Cake at Coolnagreina

There will be a coffee morning (with cake!) at YWCA Coolnagreina, Trafalgar Road, Greystones (just up from Greystones Harbour Marina, entrance opposite Harbour Barber),on Tuesday 10th December, from 10:30am to 12:30pm. This event takes place on the second Tuesday of the month. There will be wonderful home baking which you won’t be able to resist. Donations in aid of Youth Cafe. Come along for warm welcome, The Colaiste Chraobh Abhann choir performing at the switching on of the good friendship and all in aid of a good cause. Christmas Lights in Burnaby Park. Pic: John McGowan Book launch

Award-winning local Greystones writer Frances Browner launcher her new book ‘Roots and Wings’ via Limerick Writers Centre and Revival Press, in Greystones Library at 6pm on Wednesday 11th December. The book is a collection of poems The Nutcracker will be broadcast live in Whale Theatre on Christmas Eve ICA Delgany Guild

Irish Countrywomens Association (Delgany Guild) hold their last Guild meeting of the year in BRERETON St. Patricks W & R Centre, Church Road, Greystones, on Monday December 9th December SSeelleeccttiioonn at 8pm.Mulled Wine and mince Pies. Come on CARPETS down! The ooff RRuuggss Flooring Store AAnn IIddeeaall

We would like GGiifftt to sincerely Still some thank our fitting availability Get christmas all wrapped up for carpet & wood Borrow €1,000 customers for flooring before now and pay €20.27 Christmas a week for 52 weeks their business 10.4% (10.93% APR*). during the year Total Amount Repayable and wish them €1,053.63 and all our Unit 8,Church Rd, friends a Happy Greystones and Peaceful Tel: 287 7529 or 287 1216 Christmas Fax: 287 7774 Open Mon-Sat, 9am-5.30pm WICKLOW

12 NEWS TimesLOCAL Tuesday 10th December 2019 Redcross man elected to National Executive of Young Fine Gael Dylan Hutchinson from Redcross was elected to the National Executive of Young Fine Gael, at the Organisation's National Conference in Carlow last weekend. The event saw YFG Conference elected a new youth wing of the Fine members gather for three ten-member National Gael party, with a network days of debate, discussion Executive for the of thousands of members and socialising. The Organisation, comprising nationwide aged between Conference was also of the President, Vice 15 and 35. Founded by addressed by An President, a National Panel Garret FitzGerald in 1977 Taoiseach Leo Varadkar, and four regional repre- as Ireland's first indepen- Tánaiste Simon Coveney, sentatives. dent political youth organ- Minister John Paul Phelan, Dylan has been a mem- isation. YFG has been Maria Walsh MEP ber of Young Fine Gael for involved in many political Midlands North-West. over three years and he is campaigns on issues such Aside from the election- very active in local politics as insurance for young eering and policy discus- with Wicklow Fine Gael. Dylan Hutchinson drivers, the price of hous- sions, there was also a "I am delighted to have ing for young homebuyers speech by Special Guest been elected. It is integral that I can help to make a and the issue of youth Peter Ryan, Fine Gael that the youth of Ireland difference for my genera- depression and suicide. Councillor and Paralympic continue to have an impor- tion going forward," he YFG is also a member of Cyclist. tant role to play in said. the Youth of the European Members attending the Ireland's future, and I hope Young Fine Gael is the People's Party (YEPP).

Ann Doyle and Richella Wood at the annual Co. Wicklow Older Persons Council seminar in the Maxi Zoo is making Christmas Glendalough Hotel special for all animals Local projects to benefit Ireland’s largest pet retailer, Maxi Zoo will from Maxi Zoo stores on Christmas Eve, ensuring that make Christmas extra special not only for needy animals are not forgotten this Christmas. pampered pets, but also less fortunate Anthony Cremin, Marketing Manager at Maxi Zoo said animals over the festive season. You are "At Maxi Zoo we love animals, and we believe all ani- from Outdoor Recreation invited to pop into your local Maxi Zoo store mals deserve the very best. The thought of animals suf- fering is at the forefront of our minds, especially at in Bray throughout December and support Christmas, and this is why Shelter Wishes was created - their Shelter Wishes charity campaign, which to make life a little brighter for less fortunate animals at Infrastructure Scheme will help animals less fortunate than your this time of year." own this Christmas. For those pets lucky enough to have a loving home Each store has selected their own Shelter Wishes ani- year-round, Maxi Zoo will host a very special FREE Wicklow is to benefit from €58,560 funding outdoor recreation facili- walking trails, improve- ments to route signage, mal charity partner, who will compile a wish list of Christmas "Paw-ty" in stores on Saturday, December for 5 projects under 2019 Outdoor Recreation ties and infrastructure also pays a significant econom- improved facilities at trail products available in store which their beneficiaries 14th. The big man himself, "Santa Paws" will be in Infrastructure Scheme. ic dividend. access points, the develop- need and want. These gifts, of varying value, can be store from 12 to 4pm, and pet owners are encouraged to Donard Glens Walking Wicklow long distance "Thousands of tourists ment of promotional mate- purchased in store, donated and placed under the Shelter bring their fur babies along and take their own special Trails - Fauna Loop will walks video. make walking, hiking, rials, and the provision of Wishes Christmas Tree. Christmas photo with the man in red. receive €7,200 towards Fine Gael TD Andrew cycling and other outdoor beach access. Maxi Zoo Bray's Shelter Wishes partner is the Anthony added "On December 14th, we're inviting the development of a Doyle said: "There is no pursuits an important part "Since 2016, I have pro- Wicklow Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to our customers to come along with their pets and take a walking trail; Baltinglass doubting the importance of their stay in Ireland. vided over €43 million in Animals (WSPCA or The Society), which promotes the fun photo with Santa Paws. The day will also be a great Cycle Trails Project will of these projects for the Last year alone, almost 2.7 funding to support the out- responsible custody of animals. They have prevented opportunity to support our Shelter Wishes campaign, receive €8,800 towards wellbeing and quality of million overseas visitors door recreation sector. their cruelty, and rehabilitated and re-homed countless and also pick up those all important Christmas presents the establishment of a net- life of residents. As a engaged in some form of "I will shortly be making numbers to better lives. The Society has also become an for the pets in your life - from festive jumpers to tasty work of marked signage as nation, we have embraced cross-country walking or further announcements in intrinsic part of the Wicklow community, and has advent calendars." part of looped cycling the great outdoors in hiking, while over half a relation to mid-sized and become a focal point for social good through volunteer- For further information about Maxi Zoo's Shelter trails around Baltinglass; growing numbers and I am million visitors incorporat- larger projects which have ing, education, employment, fundraising and the pro- Wishes campaign and Santa Paws Day, chat to the pet Knockananna Walking pleased that Fine Gael in ed cycling into their stay. applied for funding under motion of rural sustainability. experts at Maxi Zoo Bray, Southern Cross Road or see Loops will receive €7,840 Government is playing a "In addition, one in four of separate strands of the Each charity involved will collect the donated gifts www.maxizoo.ie. Development of looped central role in facilitating us included walking or Outdoor Recreation walking trail from the vil- the development of this hiking as part of our Infrastructure Scheme." lage of Knockananna important sector. domestic holidays last The scheme is part of the works include trail infras- "The funding awarded year. This funding will Government's Project tructure, signage, map, today will support small- make a huge difference to Ireland 2040 Rural gates and benches. scale local projects for the ongoing maintenance Regeneration and Wicklow Way investment in outdoor and development of the Development programme Infrastructure upgrade recreation facilities and the outdoor recreation facili- and provides funding for grant of €20,000 towards promotion of existing ties that are being support- the development and the upgrade of 10 informa- recreation infrastructure ed. maintenance of outdoor tion trail boards, new sig- and I know this will make "Projects approved under amenities such as trails, nage and repair works and a big difference to local this measure include the walkways, cycleways and finally €14,720 towards a people. Our investment in upgrade of surfaces on blueways. Year ending well for Tinahely trainer at Thurles The year is ending well for Tinahely trainer Philip Rothwell who was among the winners once again at Thurles on Thursday, 28th November. He added to recent successes for Fiveaftermidnight and Enduring Love when the Carol Hogan-owned Wolfofallstreets won the 2m handicap hurdle in runaway fashion. The 12/1 chance was ridden by James O’Sullivan and went clear between the final two flights to win by nine and a half lengths from Ard Na Carraig. Rothwell said, “All summer I had been dropping him in over 2m4f and we didn’t really know what trip he needed. “I had it in my head when the ground got softer that going further wasn’t ideal but said we would ride him ‘Santa Paws’ was joined by Buddy and Maxi Zoo brand ambassador Emma Fanning to announce more positively and let him enjoy it. I told James to stay out of the ground that they had been racing on earlier in the day, it was a great ride. Carol Hogan is top class and I’m delighted to have another winner for her.” details of Maxi Zoo’s Shelter Wishes campaign and Santa Paws day. Pic: Conor Healy WICKLOW

Tuesday 10th December 2019 TimesLOCAL FEATURE 13

Shop in Arklow this Christmas There are plenty of reasons to shop local in Arklow this Christmas; locals will be able to find everything they need on their doorstep, while visitors to the town will be pleasantly surprised by the variety of choice and the high quality goods on offer in the main shopping areas of the town. Business is booming in Arklow in the run up to Christmas, and with just two weeks left until Christmas now is the time get out and get your shopping done locally. Arklow has transformed itself in recent years and is now a vibrant shopping district that has plenty to offer to attract consumers from all over Wicklow. If you haven’t paid Arklow a visit lately, now is the perfect time and you will find yourself pleasantly surprised. The main area of the town stretches from the Wexford Road down the Main Street and across the Bridge to Ferrybank and the Bridgewater Shopping Centre where there is an abundance of new shops to cater to all your needs.

Can Arklow defend the title of Ireland’s most Christmassy home? Energia Ireland’s ultimate Christmas competition, ‘Ireland’s Most commented; “We are ties throughout Ireland. Christmassy Home’, returns to Wicklow for 2019. Now in its fourth delighted to once again Most importantly, the year, the search is underway to find the best decorated home in be launching the search search for ‘Ireland’s Most Ireland during the festive season. for Ireland’s Most Christmassy Home’ rais- Christmassy Home. Now es vital funds for chari- More details on the December 17th. The win- counties across the coun- in its fourth year, the ties. This is always a spe- competition are available ners will be announced at try. Charities that have competition is hugely cial time of year and we at www.energia.ie/imch- 2pm on Friday 20th benefited from the com- successful and always can’t wait to see what entries. Anthony Doyle December. petition to date include receives incredible sup- Wicklow entrants have in from Arklow won last Since the competition the Wexford Hospice port from local communi- store for us this year.” year’s competition. launched, €18,000 has Homecare, Milford Anthony donated half of been donated to local Hospice, Alzheimers his €3,000 prize to charities throughout Action Adare and Arklow Community First Ireland with previous Recovery Haven Tralee. Responders and the other winners coming from Geoff Codd Head of half to Arklow RNLI. Wexford and Limerick Marketing and Retail This year’s great and finalists from other Development, Energia prizes are donations of €3,000, €2,000 and €1,000 that will be awarded to the charity of She Arklow choice for the first, sec- ond and third placed houses following a public Caoileann Murphy at the switching on of the Christmas lights in vote. Arklow. Wicklow homes have until midnight on Sunday To all our valued cuatomers - wishing December 01st to capture you a Happy Christmas and a a photo of their decorated Prosperous New Year from Erika & Marie Wishing all our clients and home and submit it Visit us for a present for your loved ones. fundraisers a very happy online. The Energia elves and healthy Christmas. Gift vouchers available will then judge the most Christmassy homes and 77 Lr. Main Street, Arklow announce which six Phone: 0402 31664 homes have made the Our volunteer to drive programme will continue to operate over the shortlist on Monday 9th Christmas period. The office will be closed from Dec 20th to Jan 6th. December. The voting Christmas Cards, Teachers gift will then open and the Tel: 0402 23590 public will be able to cards & Wicklow Calendar are Mobile: 085 1100066 available to buy in branch - choose their favourite 8 St Mary's Road, Arklow festive house until mid- Ideal Christmas Gifts! night on Tuesday LEON RECYCLING ltd. Floral Affairs Croghan Ind. Est., Emoclew Rd, Arklow Arklow AUTHORISED TREATMENT FACILITY FOR Anna Hayden 32 Main St., Arklow. THE DESTRUCTION OF END OF LIFE Bespoke Christmas Wreaths & personalised Wishing all of our customers VEHICLES, METAL MERCHANTS floral tributes available to order. a very Happy Christmas Wishing all our customers a very Call into see our new bespoke bouquets Happy Christmas & New Year The Asgard, The Avoca and The Glenart. T: 086 2172659 Telephone: 0402 41691 E: [email protected] [email protected] WICKLOW

14 NEWS TimesLOCAL Tuesday 10th December 2019 Highlighting winter walking breaks in Glendalough to British walking enthusiasts Tourism Ireland’s latest campaign in Britain highlighted winter walking breaks in Wicklow and Ireland’s Ancient East. It was multi-channel campaign which ran during the month of November, promoting a variety of our scenic trails and hikes. The campaign involved a part- Berghaus customers. pick from Areas of Outstanding nership with The Times and The “Our latest campaign is promot- Natural Beauty, national parks, Sunday Times, which reached 2.4 ing great off-season walking breaks serene beach walks and coastal million British walking enthusiasts in Glendalough and in Ireland’s trails or interesting historical sites.” - through an article in The Sunday Ancient East,” said Julie Wakley, Britain continues to be a very Times Magazine showcasing differ- Tourism Ireland’s Head of Britain. important market for tourism to the ent walks in Ireland’s Ancient East “With walks, trails and hikes to suit island of Ireland, delivering 42% of - including Glendalough. every ability, we’re reminding all overseas visitors and around It also involved activity with prospective British visitors that one 24% of all overseas tourism rev- Berghaus - the well-known out- of the best ways to truly appreciate enue. door clothing and equipment our spectacular scenery is to Its contribution to the regional brand - with articles about walk- explore it on foot. Our message is tourism economy and to season ing in Ireland on Berghaus.com, that walking in Ireland lets our visi- extension objectives are also signif- a competition to win a walking tors take in the sights, sounds and icant, with 45% of British visitors trip to Ireland and lots of social landscapes as nature intended: at arriving between October and media activity targeting their own pace. They can take their March.

Melata Praninskaite, Cara Mooney and Harry Mayhew at the switching on of the Christmas Lights in Newtownmountkennedy Coming up at The Mermaid... Greystones Art Group present Amazing Grace (Cert: G) The never-before-seen movie featuring Aretha Franklin recording the most successful gospel album of all cheque to Gavin Glynn Foundation time, Amazing Grace screens in Mermaid on Friday 13th December at 8pm. Amazing Grace is crafted from never-before-seen footage originally captured in 1972. Entering the venue unobtrusively, she smiles briefly, gathers herself for a moment and then starts to sing. Gently at first, but then ever more powerfully, her voice begins to carry the audience away into the infinity of paradise. In January 1972, Aretha Franklin made her legendary album ‘Amazing Grace’ with the Southern California Community Choir and Reverend James Cleveland in the New Temple Missionary Baptist Church in Los Angeles. At the height of her fame, she made the decision to return to where she began, to the world of gospel music. The result is a concert film that celebrates human dignity and the longing for freedom and justice and is able to transcend nostalgia and intervene in discussions about the state of the modern world. It also provides ample evidence of the enduring charisma of this soul icon who died in August 2018. Tickets cost 8/6.50. Lyngo Theatre presents: Heart of Winter

Heart of Winter comes to Mermaid on Tuesday 17th December at 4pm and Wednesday 18th December at 10am. Christmas is coming and Sally can’t sleep - it’s far too hot! The weather has gone topsy-turvy. No-one can remember the last time it snowed, or even rained, and her father can’t sell any of his umbrellas. To help her sleep Dad reads her a story about the last snowflake.That night Sally has a dream that changes every- thing - a mysterious silver spark transforms her bedroom into a glistening, white field where she meets the glowing heart of Winter. Tickets cost €10/8 (Family Ticket: €30). Age suitability: 3+. Duration: 1 hr Pictured are Greystones Art Group committee members Breda Mathews, Goretti Murphy, Irene Dixon, John Glynn (Gavin Glynn Foundation), Deirde Hannon and Sinead Wyse Ballet Ireland in association with EY presents Swan Lake Members of Greystones Art Group recently around Ireland while they battle cancer." Ballet Ireland bring Swan Lake to the Mermaid Arts Centre on Friday 20th and Saturday 21st at 7pm and presented The Gavin Glynn Foundation with Speaking at the cheque presentation John Glynn Sunday 22nd December at 2.30pm. a cheque for €1,300. Each year the Art said "the Gavin Glynn currently receives no govern- This most famous of ballets combines romantic themes, classical technique and ethereal imagery, with Group committee select a Charity of the Year ment funding and we vitally need funds that will go Tchaikovsky’s majestic score, to ensure this masterpiece’s immortality. directly to helping the families and their kids. It's and their main fundraising is done during This enduring story of love and tragedy, good and evil, and has enthralled audiences since it premiered in through the genourosity of groups like Greystones Art 1877. This autumn 22 leading professional dancers from Ireland and abroad will perform in this breath-tak- their Annual Art Exhibition. Group organising fundraisers that allows us to contin- ing production which was loved by audiences and critics when last produced by Ballet Ireland. Tickets cost A spokesperson from Greystones Art Group said ue the work that we do." €25/23 (Family Ticket: €84). "We were absolutely delighted to present John Glynn, The Gavin Glynn Foundation believes that all chil- from The Gavin Glynn Foundation, with this cheque. dren with cancer deserve the best care. They assist and Tickets are available from box office on 01-2724030 and online at mermaidartscentre.ie Thank you to everyone who contributed to this arrange travel logistics in order to help reduce the bur- fundraising. We wish John and his wife Jayne every den and stress for families who need to travel for can- success in continuing Gavin's legacy and with the cer treatments. This enables the families to focus their incredible work they do for children and their families time and energy on their child and family. The Bray Camera Club announce 2020 photography exhibition

The members of Bray Camera Club are Since its foundation in tography range incorpo- delighted to announce an exhibition of 1971, Bray Camera Club rates all photographic dis- photographs coming to the Signal Arts has provided a forum for ciplines: abstract, street, Centre in January 2020. its members (an eclectic wildlife, landscape, stu- mix of amateurs, profes- dio, close-up and portrait sionals and competition photography are all prize-winners) to learn explored. from and support one Whenever the Club another in improving their presents its work to the photographic skills and public, all members are developing their creativity. encouraged to display the The Club members use best of their photography a variety of photography and with a wide variety of equipment to collect photographic disciplines images - from mobile being showcased, this phones, to compact cam- exhibition is sure to eras and digital SLRs, to appeal to anyone with an film and large format interest in photography or Jane Magan in Ballet Ireland’s Swan Lake, coming soon to The Mermaid cameras. The Club’s pho- even just a curious eye. WICKLOW

Tuesday 10th December 2019 TimesLOCAL FEATURE 15

Shop local in Rathdrum this Christmas Christmas has arrived in Rathdrum with the to a host of retail outlets. switching on of the Christmas lights and the With beautiful Christmas festival last weekend. scenery, good rail and bus links, great natural Home to Charles Stewart Parnell, Rathdrum once was and built amenities in the county town of Wicklow and while it cannot compete close proximity and a on the size and scale front with Wicklow town any thriving commercial heart, longer, Rathdrum definitely holds its own on the is it any wonder commercial front. that many people are The former market town has a bustling main opting to make Rathdrum thoroughfare with a wide range of businesses and shops their home. catering for everything. Today there are more shops and businesses than ever Instead of battling through traffic to Dublin City before in Rathdrum catering to the burgeoning popula- Centre or trawling for parking elsewhere, why not con- tion, ensuring a wealth of choice whatever your needs. sider getting away from the hustle and bustle and You’re sure to find what you’re looking for in Rathdrum. Christmas shopping in peaceful and beautiful surround- So, whether you are looking for some great place to ings this festive season. enjoy some of Wicklow’s finest fare, want to pick up a The wide and varied commercial area of Rathdrum special and unique present for a loved one this Christmas, stretches along Main Street up many of the side streets or want to see what bargains you can pick up, a visit to and out to the ever growing industrial site which is home Rathdrum would be well worth it.

ISME urges people to Shop Local and Buy Irish this Christmas With two weekends remaining before Christmas, ISME, the Irish a resource for many buy- Rathdrum is ready for Christmas. SME Association is appealing to Irish consumers to make a concerted ers, the importance of effort to ‘shop local’ and ‘buy Irish’ this Christmas. quality, traceability and value-for-money of Irish Wishing all of our Uncertain times lie retail sector employs more “By shopping locally products shouldn’t be for- customers a very Happy Christmas and peaceful New Year ahead for Irish retailers people than any other sec- we support our towns and gotten. with Brexit, and ISME tor in our economy. villages and keep our “Supporting local busi- encourages people to sup- “Buying from locally butchers, jewellers, phar- ness, even with just a por- port indigenous business owned businesses keeps macies, brewers, distillers, tion of your Christmas and SMEs. money circulating closer confectioners, post spend, means you are Commenting on the to where you spend. Local offices, fashion, electron- supporting the ‘home- RK importance of shopping shops use local services, ics and hardware stores, grown’ team and helping local ISME CEO Neil accountants, insurance and all our local shop- to keep the local economy TYRE & SERVICE McDonnell said “Every brokers, and suppliers, as keepers in business. moving. Buying locally €10 spent locally on Irish well as employing local “Larger-online retailers means you will gift some- products generates about people and they also carry pose a real threat to many thing unique, special, and €40 of onward benefit to a higher percentage of of our local vendors. more valued this Rathdrum, Co. Wicklow. T: 0404 46188 / 46035 CENTRE the local community. The locally produced goods. While online shopping is Christmas.” www.glenmalurelodge.ie SLATE ROW, CORBALLIS, RATHDRUM, Co. WICKLOW HAPPY CHRISTMAS TO ALL from SERVICING ALL MAKES WOOD INDUSTRIES BOOK YOUR (RATHDRUM) LTD. & MODELS WINTER East Coast Gas • Tracking & Balancing SERVICE NOW Tel: 0404 46390 Rathdrum, Co.Wicklow Merry • Headlight Focusing 0404-67006 / 087 - 9138281 • Car & Light Commercials Thank you to all of our customers Christmas • Computer Diagnostics High efficiency gas boilers. from Dealer for and wishing you a very Happy Boiler services. • Pre NCT / DOE Checks Blacklion Tyres • Replacement of Timing Belts, Christmas Gas fires supplied/Repairs. Cooker repairs Clutches & Exhausts • And Much, Much More! We will close for seasonal holidays on Registered Gas Installer Unit 1, Railway Business Park Authorised service engineers the 23rd Dec, re-opening the 3rd of Jan. Rathdrum, Co. Wicklow for Rangemaster cookers & 0404 46293 Happy Mobile: 087 2201543 Worcester Bosch boilers. Tel 0404 46410 085 158 7364 / [email protected] www.eastcoastgas.net Email: [email protected] Find us on Christmas to all Email: [email protected] East Coast Gas established since 1990. www.wool.ie Facebook our Customers WICKLOW

16 NEWS TimesLOCAL Tuesday 10th December 2019 President's Award winner from Wicklow celebrated The President's Award held a special Civic - The President's Award Higgins was read by Chair Merit Award Ceremony, in recognition of 28 said, "Five years is a big of Gaisce John President's Award Leaders from all over milestone, and the time Cunningham, "I thank you Ireland who have supported young people to and hours given by you all for the generous support achieve their potential. collectively is enormous. you offer to the many Incalculable, however, is young people who, every The Civic Merit who have supported the impact you have all year, undertake the Gaisce Ceremony took place at young people to take part had on the lives of young journey. Farmleigh House in the in the Gaisce programme people in Ireland, an “That is a greatly Phoenix Park, Dublin. for more than five years. impact that will continue empowering journey on to be felt long after they which you all play an Among those being pre- The ceremony was MC'd A special presentation was made last week to former councillors who lost their seat or who did by Gold Awardee Jamie have received their Gaisce important part, impacting sented with their Civic not run in this year’s local election. Pictured is Cathaoirleach of Wicklow County Council Irene Merit Award was Denise Moore and the guest award”. positively on the develop- Winters and Chief Executive Frank Curran making a presentation to former Independent Walsh from West speaker on the night was A special message from ment of so many of our Wicklow Youthreach - Irish sports commentator the President Michael D. younger citizens." councillor Christopher Fox, with his wife Jackie. Blessington. Mícheál Ó Muircheartaigh. Gaisce's Civic Merit Speaking about the Civic Award Ceremony honours Merit Awardees, Yvonne President's Award Leaders McKenna, CEO of Gaisce Doyle hosts Breakfast Briefing on Woodland Environmental Fund

The Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine recently showcased its new native woodland initiative to a packed audience of Irish business representatives at an event in Trinity College. Interest amongst the business community was high, with representatives from hotel chains, high street retail- ers, local government, transport businesses, financial institutions and energy providers gathered to hear how the Woodland Environmental Fund (WEF) can support their environmental ambitions. Andrew Doyle T.D., Minister of State with responsi- bility for Forestry opened the event, saying that “The WEF is my Department’s response to growing demand from within the business community to become involved in native woodland establishment. The Department is the principal driver of afforestation in the country, having committed almost 500m of spending under the current Forestry Programme. The WEF cre- ates an ideal platform for business to join with Government and landowners to plant native wood- lands.” The WEF provides an access point for businesses to become associated with individual forests at their design stage allowing the business to report the estimat- ed carbon emission reductions from the established for- est against its footprint. In addition to capturing carbon these forests also provide rich and varied habitats for plants and animals as well as opportunities for recre- ation and water protection. Minister Doyle closed the event by saying that “It is undeniable that forestry is the most effective land use option when it comes to capturing carbon, we simply cannot meet our emissions targets without planting more trees. The 8,000 hectare target set out in the Climate Action plan will require a national effort and my Department is committed to working with the busi- ness community, landowners and all groups in civil society to make this happen.”

Minister of State Andrew Doyle with Alastair Blair, Country Managing Director for Accenture Ireland, at the launch of the Woodland Environmental Fund WICKLOW

Tuesday 10th December 2019 TimesLOCAL NEWS 17 Bray’s Dr Walsh presents research at climate conference Dr Deirdre Walsh from Bray presented her Deirdre's research in Professor Mark Ferguson, research at the iCRAG2019 conference - University College Dublin Director General, Science Foundation Ireland and ‘Resources for a Sustainable Future’, which focusses on creating 3D geological models of Chief Scientific Adviser to took place in Dublin last week. underground energy reser- the Government of voirs as part of the green Ireland, said, "Geoscience transition to a decar- underpins many of the bonised economy. changes that our society The conference brought must make in the coming together 250 members of decades. The metals and the academic geoscience minerals needed to create community as well as renewable technologies industry and government and batteries, the energy to deliver insights into sources required for the future directions for Irish green transition, and the geoscience research and management of water how the geoscience resources in a changing research sector can play a climate, all rely on geosci- leading role in addressing entific expertise. Through the Climate Action Plan its targeted research pro- and Ireland's commit- gramme, the iCRAG SFI ments to the UN Research Centre is well Sustainable Development positioned to deliver eco- Goals. nomic and societal impact Deirdre graduated with for Ireland across many a BA in Geology from areas of natural Trinity College Dublin resources." and an MSc in Petroleum Keynote speakers at the Stephen Whelan of the Arklow Credit Union and Senior Head teacher Eleanor Kinsella present Geoscience from UCS iCRAG 2019: Resources Ciaran Deay with the Arklow Credit Union Business Award at the Arklow C.B.S. Awards Night before joining iCRAG as a for a Sustainable Future researcher in the iCRAG conference include Dr Dr Deirdre Walsh from Bray presented her hydrocarbon area under Elizabeth Eide, Director of research at iCRAG the SFI Research Centre for the supervision of Dr Tom Board on Earth Sciences Parents want second school and Resources and Water Applied Geosciences at the iCRAG2019 Manzocchi. Speaking about how Science and Technology conference Resources for a Sustainable geoscience can help create Board at the U.S. National Future.Pic: MarcO’Sullivan. warden in Newtown a positive climate future, Academy of Sciences. Minister Simon Harris has requested Wicklow County Council install a second School Warden on the school road in Newtownmountkennedy to ensure pupils and parents can cross the road safely. Norwegian reality show couple Minister Harris said "The Newtownmountkennedy Primary School Parents Association have made a well thought out proposal for a second School Warden. With the opening of new housing and growing school enrolments the busy traffic in this location will increase. The Gardai support the parentsí association proposal and have made their own on ‘dream date’ in Wicklow submission to the council backing the need for a second school warden. “The Parents Association are clear in stating there is a need for the existing school warden at its present location Images of Wicklow and Ireland were beamed more fans chatting online about it. and that a second warden is required as the new pedestrian crossing provides inadequate traffic calming and manage- into the homes of around 500,000 people in Viewers saw the couple - Are Stifjell and Hanna ment given how busy this road now is. The municipal district council is to discuss this and I hope the proposal from Norway last week when an episode of a reali- Hovland - visiting the Wicklow Wolf Brewery and the Parents Association and the gardai will be acted on quickly." ty dating TV show - filmed here this summer enjoying a picnic on the grounds of Powerscourt - aired on TV2, the largest commercial TV Estate. They also enjoyed an overnight stay the Glenview Hotel and Leisure Club. channel in Norway. Julie McLaughlin, Tourism Ireland’s Manager for A TV crew - filming for a special Ireland episode of the Nordic Region, said: “Jakten på kjærligheten is one of Norway’s most popular TV programmes, called really popular in Norway - so this was a fun and dif- Jakten på kjærligheten (meaning ‘The Farmer Wants a ferent way to showcase Wicklow and Ireland, and Wife’) - was in Ireland in July, as guests of Tourism some of the many things to see and do here, to a huge Ireland and Fáilte Ireland. audience of potential Norwegian holidaymakers. TV Jakten på kjærligheten is all about single farmers and film are strong influencers on prospective holiday- meeting a number of potential partners; then, the makers and Tourism Ireland regularly works with TV farmer and his ‘favourite’ partner go on a dream date and production companies around the world, to facili- to a foreign location - in this instance, Wicklow. It’s tate the making of travel and lifestyle programmes and one of the top reality TV shows in Norway, attracting films around the island of Ireland. It’s a really effec- about half a million viewers each week - with many tive way to get positive exposure for the destination.” Marrakesh Ltd is a family run business specialising in Construction and Demolition Waste Management & Recycling, Site Clearance and Supply of Material from 4” down to Blinding, Recycled Screened Topsoil, Sand, Gravel etc. EPA LICENCED FACILITY • ALL TRUCKS CARRY WASTE PERMITS Recycled: • Screened Topsoil • Screened no 2 soil

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Reality TV show contestants Stifjell (second left) and Hanna Hovland (fourth left) during filming at the Wicklow Wolf Brewery in Bray; also pictured are Ole Andreas Grøntvedt, cameraman; Peter Tel: 01 286 8119 Mobile: 087 664 1866 Reynier, Wicklow Wolf Brewing Company; Togeir Lindblad, crew member; Niamh Walsh, Tourism Ireland; Meena Rathore, crew member; and Andre Johansen, sound. www.marrakeshltd.com WICKLOW

18 NEWS / LOCAL BUSINESS TimesLOCAL Tuesday 10th December 2019 ‘A real Christmas Tree is the natural choice' Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Food and Marine, Andrew Doyle T.D. urged people to buy a real Irish Christmas tree this year as he visited Wicklow Way Christmas Tree Farm run by the Kinlan family. Around 650,000 Irish Department's Scheme of Marine, Administration Tree Farm for over 30 Christmas trees are har- Investment Aid for the Building, Backweston years. Former sheep vested each year with Development of the Campus, Young's Cross, farmer Seamus Kinlan 450,000 sold at home and Commercial Horticulture Celbridge, Co. Kildare, created the business by about 200,000 exported Sector and I encourage W23 X3PH Tel: 01 planting marginal land abroad, mainly to the UK, Christmas tree growers to 5058886. with Christmas trees as a France and Germany. The consider applying for the The closing date for way to diversify his farm- industry contributes 25 2020 Scheme". receipt of applications for ing enterprise. million to the Irish econo- The Scheme assists the 2020 scheme is 17 Today, Seamus' son my. growers who wish to January 2020. Tony manages the compa- With 7-10 years of make capital investments The Minster concluded ny although Seamus is work going into produc- in specialised equipment by saying "A real tree pro- still 'the man on the ing a good quality to manage and harvest the vides a better Christmas ground' and carries out the Christmas tree, the crop. Popular investments experience in the home, is day-to-day tasks in run- Minister outlined "the under the Scheme include more environmentally ning the farm. Together quality of Christmas trees specialised tree pruners, friendly, has a lower car- they manage their 12 Ha BALLYCOOG NATIONAL SCHOOL RUNNING TRACK OFFICIALLY OPENED produced in Ireland has tree netters and palletisers bon footprint than an arti- Christmas tree farm in Last Friday Minister Simon Harris TD joined Michelle Claffey, Irish international rugby player, increased significantly in which protect quality and ficial tree and people who which they are growing Mary Hickey who ran the circumference of Ireland for the RNLI and teachers and students of recent years. This allow for efficient trans- buy an Irish tree are sup- 40,000 noble fir and Ballycoog National School to open their new running track. improvement is due to port. The Scheme is now porting jobs in rural Nordmann fir trees. increased expertise being open and details of the Ireland. A real tree is the Most of these trees are Minister Harris said “I am honoured to be invited to Ballycoog NS to open their new running employed to manage and scheme can be found here natural choice." sold through retail sites to track. It is great to see how a community like Ballycoog works together to deliver such an prepare trees for more dis- or from Horticulture and The Kinlan family of the Dublin market, but amenity. In particular I would like to pay tribute to Mr Byrne and his team at the school who cerning customers. The Plant Health Division, Roundwood own and they also export trees to worked so hard to bring this project to fruition securing funding for this amenity along with the improvement has also Department of have been running the France, Germany and the Ballycoog Development Association and Ballycoog ICA” been facilitated by my Agriculture, Food and the Wicklow Way Christmas Netherlands. Why not take a short Certificate course at IT Carlow?

Thinking of upskilling, career advancement, a change of career or contemplating a return to education…If so - why not sample one of short Certificate courses at the Institute of Technology Carlow’s Wicklow Campus, Rathnew, from January 2020.

These Certificate courses are being offered in Business, Humanities, Engineering, PR & Media, Digital Media and Entrepreneurship. They range in duration of delivery from a few days to 1 -2 evenings per week over 13 weeks, covering a range of Awards from level 6-9 on the National Framework of Qualifications. Each short Certificate course is a stand - alone award and is 10-30 Credits, but also forms part of a full 60 credit course within each discipline. So why not try one of these short Certificate courses in areas such as, Data Protection, Management Effectiveness, Leadership and Change Management, Mental Health Awareness in Youth Work, Challenging Behaviour, Web Design and Digital Media. Other Certificate courses on offer at the Wicklow Campus in January 2020, include, Certificates in Health Wellbeing & Nutrition, Family Support, Project Management, Professional Report Writing, Organisational Psychology, Supervision Theory and Practice and Enhancing Leadership in Intercultural Understanding & Diversity. So why not book your place on a course that interests you by contacting the Wicklow Campus directly on 059 917 5850 or 0404 67125, email [email protected] or check www.itcarlow.ie/LLL for further information. Tony Kinlan and Seamus Kinlan with Minister Andrew Doyle. ALLSHADES BLINDS ANTO’S TREE • Roller • Vertical • Wood Venetian SERVICES SELF-STORAGE • Pleated • Velux • Roman 24hr access own door/key, Tel: 087 2201600 Fully Insured Tree Surgeon FACTORY: Unit 10, Block 1, Broomhall Secure dry storage units Business Park, Rathnew. Tel: 0404 20344 Pruning, Reductions various sizes. and Removal DENTAL REPAIRS Suit house contents etc, • Service and Repair of Cars & Light • PROFESSIONAL SERVICE • reasonable rates. Commercials• Tyres • Brakes • Clutches Hours: 9am-5pm Monday - Friday, 10am-2pm Saturday All Aspects of • Batteries • Shocks • Lights Emergency No : 086 8260511 Tel: 01 276 2883 Tree Surgery • Exhausts • Diagnostics • Recovery Email: [email protected] ASHFORD AREA DENTAL CARE LTD 40 Main Street, Bray Tel: 087 610 9128 Tel 086 259 1538

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Tuesday 10th December 2019 TimesLOCAL CLASSIFIEDS / NEWS 19 Blessington woman appeals for support for families living in war zones

Last week the Irish overseas development agency Trócaire launched the 50th anniversary of alone, where Trócaire its Christmas Appeal with an urgent call from local Blessington John Lennon and Yoko works, an estimated 19 woman Jenny Foley for people in county Wicklow to support innocent Ono's iconic War is Over million people have families who are caught up in wars and conflicts around the world. 'peace' campaign. Trócaire known nothing but war - has reimagined the cam- children have lived in "Where Trócaire since they were born" the public to support us paign with a 2019 'War Is conflict zones since they works, millions people according to Jenny. and make sure these inno- Over Christmas appeal' were born. have known nothing but "Trócaire is working to cent people aren't forgot- supporting families who "Donating to Trócaire's war and have lived protect them and keep ten this Christmas." are living in war zones Christmas appeal will help through constant conflict them safe. We are asking This Christmas marks around the world. people born into some of According to Jenny the longest-running con- from Trócaire, families flicts in the world. fleeing conflict urgently "We are grateful and need food, shelter and thankful for the support healthcare this Christmas we receive from the peo- in many of the countries ple of Wicklow each year. where Trócaire works. Their support directly "Millions of children impacts families and com- around the world have munities around the world known nothing but con- and that is why it is so flict in their lives. Their vital this Christmas." lives are on hold because According to Trócaire, they are living in war the agency will deliver zones. It seems that in food, shelter, medicine many cases the world has and protection to innocent forgotten these children. people living in warzones This Christmas we want around the world thanks them to know that we to the donations it haven't forgotten them," receives this Christmas. she said. More information Ben Foley from Blessington and Abbie Dolan from Enfield lauching "The figures are fright- is available from Troaire’s Christmas Campaign ening" said Jenny. "In www.trocaire.org or by Elsie and Geraldine Weller with Baileigh O’Connor at the switching Syria, Somalia and Gaza calling 1850 408 408. on of the Christmas lights in Arklow.

WICKLOW COUNTY COUNCIL WICKLOW COUNTY COUNCIL WICKLOW COUNTY COUNCIL WICKLOW COUNTY COUNCIL H.T. Carroll Limited seeks S K Design (0402 94680) FULL PLANNING PERMISSION T. & C. Horan seek permission for Bray Library events Planning Permission for seeks full planning permission Sought for: construction of 4 new terraced amendments to the previously on behalf of Amy Heffernan & 1. Proposed Ground & First dwellings , works will include the granted Planning Permission No. Robert Newsome for change Floor Extension (129 Msq) to closure of the existing vehicular Forthcoming eventsin Bray Library, Eglinton Road, Bray, are the Friday 181229 to include: revised layout Rear of Existing Dwelling entrance on the R761 and the of a 1 Bedroom Apartment Unit on of house plans and site plan December 13th 11.30am talk by James Scannell, Bray Cualann Historical Society, PLANNING ‘Inverness’, Existing Dwelling provision of a new entrance onto each level (2 in total) with private previously granted under The Grove to access the proposed recalling ‘Christmas 1919 in Bray, Co. Wicklow’ - admission free - no booking open space to the rear of each, ‘Inverness’ (123Msq). planning ref: 16/904 and also development , upgrade works to required; and the Saturday December 14th ‘Wreath Making Demonstration’ with demolition of existing rear sheds 2. All ancillary site works at PLANNING the provision of a detached the junction of The Grove and and construction of a new ground ‘Inverness’, 21, Putland Road, Aoife Munn, at which participants will learn how to make beautiful Scandinavian garage at Cronawinnia, floor rear extension of 3.5sqm, Bray, Co. Wicklow. A98 X2F4. R761 to include for the provision style wreaths from everyday plants that are all around us. Participants will take WICKLOWPLANNING COUNTY COUNCIL with a new facade to Albert Aughrim, Co.Wicklow. The Signed Jason Cooke & Katrina of a pedestrian footpath, connection to public services, together with their wreaths home - admission free but booking required - call 01-2862600 or Stanford Woods Healthcare Ltd seeks Avenue, revised roof profile, fen- planning application may be Farrelly Cooke. Permission for the development estration front and rear , and inspected or purchased The planning application may all associated site works, at email: [email protected]. It’s Storytime’ takes place every Monday, except which will comprise a predominantly associated site and landscape at a fee not exceeding the be inspected or purchased Bridge House, The Grove, Bank Holiday Mondays, at 10am. two-storey residential care building Greystones. The planning application works, all at 2A Albert House, reasonable cost of making a at a fee not exceeding the with an attic plant room and storage Albert Avenue, Bray, Co. Wicklow. may be inspected or purchased area. The gross floor area will be reasonable cost of making a The planning application may be copy at the offices of Wicklow at a fee not exceeding the 12,067 m2. of which 5,575 m2. is at copy at the offices of Wicklow Roundwood Variety Show ground floor level; 5,377 m2. is at inspected or purchased at a fee County Council, County reasonable cost of making a copy County Council, County first floor; and a further 1,115 m2. is not exceeding the reasonable cost Buildings, Wicklow during its at the offices of Wicklow County Buildings, Wicklow during its at attic floor level. The accommodation of making a copy at the offices of public opening hours and a Council, County Buildings, The Brockagh Resource Centre will be hosting the ever entertaining and talented will comprise ensuite bedrooms, day public opening hours and a Wicklow County Council, County submission or observation in Wicklow during its public opening Roundwood Variety Show performers again next year at the end of January 2020 spaces, balconies at upper floor level Buildings, Wicklow during its submission or observation in and ancillary sanitary accommodation hours and a submission or public opening hours and a relation to the application may with Robin Hood, The Magical Pantomime Adventure. Details will be posted at for residents with support services relation to the application observation in relation to the submission or observation in be made to the authority such as recreation/activity rooms, may be made to the authority application may be made to the www.facebook.com/brockaghresourcecentre/ and on www.brockaghresourcecen- physiotherapy suite, treatment and relation to the application may be in writing on payment of the in writing on payment of the occupational therapy rooms, Oratory, authority in writing on payment of tre.ie when more information is available. made to the authority in writing prescribed fee within the prescribed fee within the Daycare and hairdressing. It will on payment of the prescribed fee the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on period of 5 weeks beginning on include a facility run café (open to the within the period of 5 weeks period of 5 weeks beginning public), administration offices; staff the date of receipt by the beginning on the date of receipt the date of receipt by the on the date of receipt by the Glendalough Christmas Market & Santa rest, dining, changing and training authority of the application. authority of the application. facilities; catering kitchens, laundry, by the authority of the application. authority of the application. plant room, maintenance workshop This year’s Brockagh Resource Centre popular Christmas Market is on Sunday, and electrical switch room; a substation and standby generator. The site will WICKLOW COUNTY COUNCIL WICKLOW COUNTY COUNCIL WICKLOW COUNTY COUNCIL THE MIRACULOUS 15th of December. Santa has confirmed his arrival for the 15th of Dec and with a be fully landscaped with provision of small entrance fee he can be visited in his grotto from 1pm. There are over 50 Stalls sensory gardens and walkways WicklowProject:Joe Phelan invites I James Cullen intend to I Kathryn Byrne intend to PRAYER including gazebo features and expressions of interest from apply for permission for the apply for permission for the and entertainment from carol singers, making it the perfect place to do a spot of mounded screen planting 1.2 m Dear Heart of Jesus in above finished ground level. parties interested in Tendering for construction of a new construction of a new Christmas shopping. Stallholders will be selling homemade baking, Christmas dec- Employee, service and visitor car and the construction of 7 Farm Holiday dwelling, wastewater dwelling, wastewater the past I have asked orations, handcrafted jewellery, pure honey, jams, selection of candles, knits, knit- covered cycle parking will be provided. Cottages on his K2Alpaca Stud treatment unit & polishing treatment unit & polishing for many favours. This The existing site entrance from the filter, connection to mains ted toys, woodcrafts, photography, ceramics, aromatherapy jewellery, artwork, L1043 will be improved and, with a Farm, Callow Hill Upper, filter, new well, new time I ask you this very clothes, Christmas wreaths, and natural body care products. With so many local driveway, provide the primary access. Co. Wicklow A63 DX08, complete water services, entrance entrance onto public road The existing access from the L5406 onto public road from special one. (Mention with all associated works, and associate works at makers and designers showcasing their gifts, you can tick off everything on your will be improved to provide a existing entrance and demolitions, electrical+mechanical request) Take it, dear Christmas list all in one place and feel reassured that you’re supporting your local recreational and emergency gated associate works at Glenacoria, Moneystown, Co. access from/to Willowgrove. The Heart of Jesus and subcontracts, services, site works Brockagh, Laragh, Co. Wicklow. The planning community. Throughout the Market, you’ll find tasty foods to satisfy any appetite. development will connect to the and wastewater treatment system existing water supply infrastructure Wicklow. The planning application may be place it within your Parking and entry to market is free. Contact Michelle on 0404 45600 or email in the area. The development will etc. Parties may express an application may be inspected or purchased broken Heart where [email protected] for further enquiries. connect to a proposed pumping interest in any part or the whole of inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the station and rising main south of the your Father sees it. site. This in turn will discharge foul the project. Tender Documents will at a fee notexceeding the reasonable cost of making a effluent from the site at Killickabawn, be available from the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of Then, in his merciful Kilpedder, Delgany, Co. Wicklow into 10thDecember with a closing date copy at the offices of Wicklow County Council, eyes it will become Wicklow Lions annual collection the Greystones Delgany Kilcoole Wicklow County Council, public district sewerage system. for Tenders being the 14th January County Council Buildings, your favour not mine. The planning application may be 2020. Phone contact: 087 County Council Buildings, Wicklow Town, during its St Anthony and St Jude, inspected or purchased at a fee not 2427859. Expressions of interest Wicklow Town, during its public opening hours and a Wicklow Lions Club members will be very visable from December 13th-15th for exceeding the reasonable cost of helper of the hopeless, may be emailed to johnphelanar- public opening hours and a submission or observation in the annual collection at the local SuperValu store in Wicklow town when the local making a copy at the offices of submission or observation in Wicklow County Council, County [email protected] posted to the relation to the application aid me in my distress. people show their continued support for the community through the local Lions relation to the application Buildings, Wicklow during its public project address stating your may be made in writing to Amen. Say this prayer opening hours and a submission or may be made in writing to Club especially at this vital time of the year for so many. The president and mem- interest in part or the whole of the the planning authority on observation in relation to the applica- the planning authority on for three days. Promise bers of Wicklow Lions Club are always very grateful for the support they receive tion may be made to the authority in project. Joe Phelan reserves the payment of the prescribed payment of the prescribed publication and favour writing on payment of the prescribed right to select any or all applicants fee within 5 weeks from from not only the people of Wicklow town but from everyone in the surrounding fee within the period of 5 weeks fee within 5 weeks from will be granted. Never beginning on the date of receipt by or to personally invite additional submission of application to submission of application to district which is covered by the Lions Club. the night was for Wicklow ICA and the authority of the application. selected applicants as necessary Planning Authority. Planning Authority. known to fail. E.R. St.Pat’s Juveniles. CLASSIFIEDCLASSIFIED ADSADS && PLPLANNINGANNING // APPOINTMENTSAPPOINTMENTS CALL 01 2869111 EMAIL: [email protected] PLEASE NOTE DEADLINE FOR CLASSIFIED ADS AND APPOINTMENTS IS 12 NOON FRIDAY BRAY INSTITUTE OF FURTHER EDUCATION Dedicated, Professional, Passionate - COUNTY WICKLOW’S LARGEST COLLEGE OF FURTHER AND HIGHER EDUCATION - On-Line Enrollment Applications for 2020-2021 NOW OPEN

OPEN DAY Fri Jan 17th 10am-4pm

ART & DESIGN BODY THERAPIES & ADULT LEAVING CERTIFICATE

Art Portfolio Preparation Course HOLISTIC HEALTH Adult Leaving Certificate Art, Craft & Design Art Practice / Fine Art HNC Beauty & Body Therapy NURSING & HEALTH SCIENCES Architectural Design & Technology Nail Technician & Salon Administration Architectural Technology - Advanced HNC Hairdressing Junior Stylist Nursing / Midwifery Studies Graphic Design HND Hairdressing Senior Stylist NEW Occupational Therapy Assistant Fashion Design Barbering Pharmacy & Retail Selling Fashion & Textiles HNC Fashion Theatre and Media Make-Up NEW Pharmacy Assistant Garden Design Holistic & Wellbeing Studies Pharmacy Technician Furniture Design & Manu. Level 5 Furniture Design & Cabinet M. Level 6 SCIENCE, ENGINEERING ACTING & DANCE NEW Construction & Joinery NEW Jewellery Making & design & COMPUTING Acting for Theatre & Film Acting-Advanced for Stage & Screen MUSIC & COMPUTER GAMING Animal Care & Management Dance Technique, Performance & Chor. ND Animal Care Dance Technique, Performance & Chor. HND 3D Game Design Animal Care Games Development NEW Canine Husbandry FILM Music Production HND Animal Science Advanced NEW Music Performance HND Companion Animal Science - Start Your Own Business TV & Film Production Sound Engineering NEW Equine Studies TV & Film (Moving Image) HND DJ Techniques & Music Production Science - Pre University Film FX: Special Effects in Film Production Dietetics, Nutrition & Food Science SPORT Forensics - Applied Science TOURISM & HOSPITALITY NEW Applied Ecology & Biodiversity Studies Sports, Exercise & Fitness Instruction Engineering Pre-University Tourism, Reception & Event Management Personal Trainer, Strength & Conditioning Computer Software Development NEW Tour Guiding Soccer & Fitness Instruction Computer Science Level 5 Restaurant & Bar Management NEW Sports Injury & Soft Tissue Massage Therapy Computer Networks & Cyber Security Level 6 Professional Cookery NEW Teacher Training & Education Pre-University Professional Cookery Advanced NEW Inclusive Education & Training Through Assistive Technology SOCIAL STUDIES & APPLIED PSYCHOLOGY BUSINESS DEGREE, DIPLOMA AND CERTIFICATE PROGRAMMES FOR 2020 - 2021 Early Childhood Care & Education Business Management & Administration Supervision in Early Childhood Care & Education Business Management - Advanced Cert Social Studies & Community Care Accounting Technician Applied Health & Social Care HND Business Tourism & Event Management Applied Psychology Legal Administration IT & Office Administration Medical Administration Security Studies Estate Agency Practice & Auctioneering 01 2829668 Apply NOW online at www.bife.ie [email protected]