CIT Students’ Union Magazine Issue Eight - Volume Six

CITCITSUSU ElectionElection SporSportsts && SocsSocs ResultsResults NewsNews UpdatUpdatee

CollegeCollege BallBall LatLatestest CDCD && PicturesPictures InsideInside MusicMusic ReviewsReviews expliCIT Editorial

“...Cheltenham was great but

CIT Students’ Union all I can say is roll on the Rossa Ave, Bishopstown Cork, Grand National...” Ireland. Telephone 021 493 3120 Fax 021 454 5343 Email [email protected] expliCIT Staff Editor - Steph Howard Design & Advertising - Philip O’Reilly

Contributions Sean F O’Leary Emma Martin Nigel Walsh Keith Ricken Shane O’Brien Brian O’Sullivan Glynis Dennehy HCMC Colm Crowley James Holland Martin O’Riordan Patrick Tuite Donough Shanahan Mark O’Leary

CIT Students’ Union President - James Maher ([email protected]) Vice President Education - Jamie Meaney ([email protected]) Vice President Welfare - Daniel Keane ([email protected]) Entertainments Officer - Mark McCarthy Best wishes to Charles ([email protected]) Equality Officer - Ray O’Brien and his fine new Filly! ([email protected]) Communications Officer - Steph Howard ([email protected])

Hey all.

Print Barnaville Print & Graphics LTD Oh my god I survived Cheltenham! The national annoy the bookie week! Honest to god if I was told another time Freshford, Kilkenny. to "write out a docket for me" or "put odds on that for me" I was going to kill someone and I don't think any other bookie in the country would have blamed me. But in saying all this, it was the experience of a lifetime, I have expliCIT magazine is published monthly by CIT never seen the shop so busy, the days go so fast and the bookies have so much bad luck: nine Irish winners! All I Students’ Union. The views expressed in the maga- can say is roll on the Grand National! zine are those of their authors and are not necessar- ily those of CIT Students’ Union. All articles and pic- On the 10th of March the new Student Union executive was elected. I would like to extend my congratulations to tures are the property of their respective owners and should not be reproduced without the permis- the woman about to fill my shoes next year; Caitriona Foley, best of luck to her and to any one else who got elect- sion of their owners. ed in I must say a very colourful and effortful election week!

We Need You! Exam bells are ringing and getting way too loud for my liking, repeating is the last resort so it's the head to the books for the next couple of weeks. Don't forget to book all your pre exam party's soon. If you would like to contribute to expliCIT please contact Philip in the main SU office (C143) or email: [email protected] In saying all this I must get down to the books myself, so until next month.

Slán Steph New Students’ Union Executive Elected for 2005 / 2006 Academic Year

“...Jeremy has been an ardent supporter of the SU for the past five years and is without doubt one of my very good friends. He has helped the officers of this Union on countless occasions and will make an incredible president. On the other hand Daniel Keane is the best Officer this union has had in the last four years...” Once every academic year, the Union is consumed by election fever, plastered with fly- He added “Many people asked me which side I was on or which candidate I would ers, leaflets and posters of candidates trying to convince others of their worth. like to have seen win. My answer would be both. Jeremy has been an ardent support- er of the SU for the past five years and is without doubt one of my very good friends. By the end of the campaigning, six officers are voted in and landed with the dubious He has helped the officers of this Union on countless occasions and will make an honour of making the decisions over the year and answering to you at each Union incredible president. I expect great things. On the other hand Daniel Keane has had to Council meeting; your chance to watch democracy at work and make a genuine differ- pick up the slack when our Education Officer left early. ence. You have the ultimate say, so take an interest in what the following characters get up to, and never be afraid to question their decisions made on your behalf. The This year I have asked more of the man than any other President has asked of the total poll had increased consideribly this year to almost 1,200 students voting com- Welfare Officer in years. We had the Night Shuttle, starting work in some areas no one pared to 600 people voting last year. There was a very healthy number of competing else has gone near and he has been under tremendous pressure. He has come candidates and this made the election quite exciting. through with flying colours. Daniel Keane is the best Officer this union has had in the last four years. CITSU President, James Maher, stated “The election process is an important part of the working of the Students' Union. It maintains the equality that any student can become His quality of work and dedication to the Union, his intelligent approach, his sheer part of the executive and have a major influence over the policy of the Students' Union. number of hours put in has been second to none. The position this Union would be I think the elections this year were held in a spirit of fare play and good will with all in this year without his tireless work would be unthinkable. So I always knew whoev- candidates treating each other with respect. Good luck to all those elected and com- er lost we would lose someone good”. miserations to all other candidates. It takes courage to put your self up for election for the first time”.

PRESIDENT: COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER: Total Poll 1,188 Total Poll 1,165 Spoiled (12) Spoiled (40) Valid Poll 1,176 Valid Poll 1,125

Quota (50% +1) 589 Quota (50% +1) 564

Keane, Daniel 369 Duggan, Shellie 365 Ó Murchú, Jeremy 782 Foley, Catríona 631 R.O.N. 25 R.O.N. 129

VICE PRESIDENT EDUCATION: ENTERTAINMENTS OFFICER: Total Poll 1,160 Total Poll 1,140 Spoiled (20) Spoiled (32) Valid Poll 1,140 Valid Poll 1,108

Quota (50% +1) 571 Quota (50% +1) 555 Jeremy Ó Murchú - President Michael O’Connor - Education Sinéad O’Connell - Welfare Haralambakis, Michael 192 Daly, Charles 787 O’Connor, Michael 727 R.O.N. 321 Quinlan, Natalie 190 R.O.N. 31

VICE PRESIDENT WELFARE: PROJECTS OFFICER: Total Poll 1,126 Total Poll 1,104 Spoiled (30) Spoiled (30) Valid Poll 1,096 Valid Poll 1,074 Quota (50% +1) 549 Quota (50% +1) 538 Bagnell, Owen 387 1st Rnd 2nd Rnd Kiely, Wesley 572 Guilfoyle, Aoife 509 513 (+4) R.O.N. 137 O’Connell, Sinéad 528 540 (+12) R.O.N. 37 --- (21 non transferable) Officers take-up positions on 1st June 2005 Catríona Foley - Comms Charles Daly - Entertainment Wesley Kiely - Projects USI Reassures Students That Condoms Are Safe

The Union of Students in Ireland The Irish Medicines Board (IMB) stated that following its investigations it has discov- have moved to allay fears among ered two batches of counterfeit condoms bearing the Durex brand name on the Irish students regarding the recent distri- market. These condoms were illegally imported into Ireland and do not meet the strin- bution of 25,000 sexual health packs gent European standard for condoms. The IMB states that following tests, it has been to colleges across the country. The confirmed that these condoms are unsafe and may not provide an effective barrier to reaction comes after the disclosure prevent the transmission of sexually transmitted diseases or work as an effective that thousands of counterfeit con- means of contraception. doms have been sold in Ireland recently. The IMB has already seized a large proportion of the counterfeit stocks but estimates that there could be circa 40,000 boxes already sold to consumers. The IMB has been USI Welfare Officer, Layne Aston in communication with all Irish pharmacies and the Irish Pharmaceutical Union in rela- said: "In February as part of Sexual tion to a national recall of all affected stocks. It is advising consumers to check to see Health Awareness & Guidance if they may have these condoms in their possession. People should check the outer (SHAG) Week, USI distributed packet and the condom foil for the batch details. The recall only relates to twelve unit 25,000 Durex Extra Safe condoms. boxes. No other packs are involved. The two counterfeit batches identified carry the These condoms were delivered to following information: USI offices directly from Durex and we would like to calm any fears that students have over these condoms. They are per- Product Name: Durex Extra Safe twelve Pack Condoms fectly safe and reach all European safety criteria. We would urge students to check the Batch number: 20602503 batch numbers on any twelve packs of Durex Featherlite and Extra Safe condoms to Expiry Date: 2007/11 ensure they are safe. Product Name: Durex Fetherlite 12 Pack Condoms "Should anyone suspect they are in receipt of the counterfeit condoms we would Batch number: VR3073 U or C or E or EUR advise them to visit their GP. Durex have also provided a care line for those wishing to Expiry Date: 2008/02 report where they bought the condoms. Consumers are advised to return any affected product to their local pharmacy and "USI has distributed the batch numbers to all it’s member college students' unions to those with health concerns should consult with their General Practitioner. ensure that the message gets through to those who believe they may have purchased this fake contraception." Consumers can contact the Durex Careline on 0044 800 074 2040 Third Annual CIT Prize for Innovation Winners Announced The 3rd CIT Prize for Innovation took place in the Exhibition 2nd Prize: e1,000 Centre on 25th February 2005. “Entrepreneurs” showcased their Company Name: GOURAMI businesses during the exhibition and e5,000 was awarded to the Team Member: Michael Has winning entries. The South Cork Enterprise Board sponsored the Department: Department of Accounting and Information competition and in addition to the cash prizes provided a perpet- Systems, School of Business ual cup that will now be on display in the Department of Manufacturing, Biomedical and Facilities Engineering for the next 3rd Prize: e 500 twelve months. Company Name: UPRIGHT POSITIONS LTD. Team Members: Michelle Anderson, Christopher White, We hope to extend this competition even further for the 2006 Michael Fitzpatrick and Kieran Hallissey competition. A number of the entries will now be forwarded to an Department: Department of Manufacturing, Biomedical All-Ireland competition “Student Awards Scheme”. This competi- and Facilities Engineering tion is sponsored by Enterprise Ireland and the All-Ireland finals will be held in CIT on 13th and 14th April. The total prize money Best Stand on Innovation Day: e 250 for this competition is e48,000. Company Name: PARADISE FALLS Team Members: Steve Lehane, Kian Jackson and Mark Kelly The CIT Prize for Innovation is open to staff and students in all Department: School of Business departments and provides an insight for students into what is involved in setting up their own business. Many of the students Best Business Plan: e 250 used their final year projects as the basis for their application for Company Name: PODUSA LTD the competition. Project supervisors have commented that the Team Members: Jamie Meehan, Steven Ronayne, Marcas competition makes the student more committed and interested O'Sullivan, Regina McCarthy and in their project work. Emma Ferriter Department: Department of Manufacturing, Biomedical During the competition applicants attended workshops that and Facilities Engineering and helped them to put their business plans together. Michael Walsh School of Business of the Department of Management and Marketing held work- shops on marketing and Leonard Godsil of the South Cork The adjudicators were very impressed with the quality of the work Enterprise Board held workshops on the financial aspects of a that was evidenced from the business plans and display stands. Business Plan. The students found these workshops invaluable. The judges found it difficult to come to a decision on the winners and felt that everyone who participated showed elements of Prize Winners: enthusiasm and creativity that are required to start a business. 1st Prize: e3,000 There were three adjudicators: Leonard Godsil (South Cork Company Name: PODUSA LTD Enterprise Board), Drew O Sullivan, (Genesis Enterprise Team Members: Jamie Meehan, Steven Ronayne, Marcas Programme Manager), and Paul Healy (Paul Healy and Associates O'Sullivan, Venture Consultants). Regina McCarthy and Emma Ferriter Department: Department of Manufacturing, Biomedical Glynis Dennehy and Facilities Engineering and Development Office School of Business USI Petition Minister to Abolish Fees and Increase Student Income

Following on from a week of action against under funding and cuts at third level colleges the Union of Students in Ireland and student leaders from local stu- dents' unions handed in thousands of petitions of protest to the Minister for Education, Mary Hanafin at the Department of Education.

Petitions signed by students from colleges across the country (including UCC, UCD, DIT, DKIT, ITT, NCI, LYIT, AIT, ITC, TCD) call for the Minister of Education and Science and the FF/PD government to immediately "abolish the registration fee (now at E750), reverse the cut-backs and fund education properly, bring main- tenance grants up to social welfare levels" amongst other issues.

Rory Hearne Campaigns officer from USI stated: The increase in funding for third level colleges announced at the Budget were just not enough to cover ris- ing costs and chronic under funding of third level education. The reality for stu- dents on the ground is cut backs in health services and library hours while computers and labs are falling apart. The fact remains that investment in Ireland in third-level education continues to fall well below what is required.

Meanwhile students are worse off as they have to pay EUR750 of a registration fee while the grant remains inadequate. Statistics in the HEA report last week revealed that: "despite the claim that the participation rates by social class increased the general figure hides the underlying inequality of access to third level that remains as wide as ever. Take the fact that the greatest gain in partic- ipation took place among the children of professionals, among whom the par- ticipation rate increased from 0.72 in 1998 to 0.89 in 2003. The comparable fig- ure for children of unskilled workers only increased from 0.20 to 0.28."

This is no surprise when the student maintenance and financial support system provided by the government is simply not available for those students who need it and for those who receive the grant it is completely inadequate to cover the costs of college. We call on the Minister to immediately address the issue of under funding, the registration fee and maintenance grant in order to begin addressing the structural inequality of access to third level education.

Francis Kieran, President Trinity College Students Union said hundreds of stu- dents in Trinity College signed a petition last week stating: "We the undersigned, as students and voters, believe that the Government has not given enough financial support to Trinity College or to third level generally. We call for an end to cutbacks and for substantial investment in third level in order to avert dete- rioration in the facilities we use". OECD Report Highlights on the Review of Higher Education in Ireland Extract statement by Mary Hanafin TD, Minister for Education and Science Full statement available on www.citsu.ie/news

Another OECD study on Technician Training in Ireland led to the establishment of the Funding and Investment Regional Technical Colleges (now the Institutes of Technology). These structures have Underlying the overall OECD report is the need for further investment in higher edu- been the foundation on which we have built our economic and social progress over cation. Given the economic and fiscal realities facing Ireland, the authors do not the last thirty years. In recent years in particular, unprecedented levels of economic believe that it will be possible to create a globally competitive higher education sys- growth have been made possible by the numbers and quality of skilled people pro- tem and research capability by relying on State funding alone. The report argues that duced by our education system. higher education institutions are constrained by their over-dependence on State investment and that the quantum leap in funding that is required can only be met Of course, growth on the scale we have experienced poses its own challenges. through the re-introduction of an enlarged student contribution. It recommends the Ireland today is a very different place from what it was some 40 years ago. In 1965 re-introduction of tuition fees for undergraduates, accompanied by a targeted grant there were 21,000 students in higher education. Now there are over 137,000 students scheme to assist low income and other special needs students. pursuing a range of study opportunities that would have been unimaginable a gener- ation ago. The recommendation for the re-introduction of fees has been clearly rejected by this Government and is off the agenda. The need for greater investment and the challenge The enormous strides that we have made in the massification of higher education is of identifying potential means for realising that remains very much on the agenda. down to sustained investment by successive Governments and to the leadership and This is a very significant implementation challenge. In addition to the major strides on flexibility of those in the higher education sector who have responded to the demands research and development funding, the Government’s commitment to higher educa- placed on them for greater and wider provision of higher education opportunity. tion has seen day to day funding for the sector more than double since we took office. I have previously stated that higher education funding will be a priority for me mov- The report makes fifty-two far-reaching recommendations. These address structural ing forward. However, as Members appreciate, there are many competing demands and institutional reform, as well as wider policy and funding issues, including financ- on the exchequer that inevitably limit the ability to make “a quantum leap” in funding ing, management and modernisation of the sector and the wider co-ordination of for any one sector, whatever its strategic importance. The challenge of securing Government policy on higher education and research. increased investment for higher education is one that must be shared between Government and the sector itself. Clearly there is a need for institutions to diversify Strategic Management, Structures and Missions their funding sources. The report identifies some potential avenues. Equally impor- They also recommend the creation of a new Tertiary Education Authority, which would tantly, there is a need for Government and the sector to work closely together in ensur- have responsibility for both the University and Institute of Technology sectors. The ing that the conditions for diversified funding are facilitated. I intend to work closely new Authority, to replace the existing Higher Education Authority, would be centrally with the sector in exploring possibilities in this regard. positioned to develop funding and other mechanisms to promote unified strategic planning for the sector in support of the national strategic agenda. Conclusion I will be reporting back to the OECD on implementation progress in two years time. Continuing distinct roles for the University and Institutes of Technology sectors and a In the meantime, I am delighted, as Minister for Education and Science, to have this clear differentiation of mission between them are recommended. This is intended Report available to me as a crucial instrument in developing policy for higher educa- to ensure a continued provision of a progressive range of awards (from Certificate tion in Ireland in the 21st century. through to PhD level) that are needed to meet the needs of individuals, society and the economy. A particular role is recommended for the Institutes of Technology in CITSU Response to OECD Report promoting regional development. At a quick glance there are many positive things in the minister’s response to the O.E.C.D., the first and most obvious is her statement that there will be no tuition fees. As the report outlines, the Institutes of Technology have brought great strength to the Also the response that more than full time education needs to be invested in and that Irish system through their differentiated focus on supporting regional development, there needs to be more money in Third level education. Her support for increased the applied nature of their roles, and their emphasis on sub-degree provision. This access is great but we have yet to see any real support for this. Between the messing diversified model has been extremely successful for Ireland in meeting the varying with the back to education allowance and the removal of support for foundation needs of students, the economy and society and I welcome the report’s recommenda- courses as well as the ban on using student support money for registration fees. tion that it should be maintained into the future. Minister Dempsey said many things about increased access while taking existing Research and Development access measures to pieces. The OECD report points out that international experience strongly suggests that Also are I.T. students going to be relegated to second-class citizens when it comes to research needs to be institutionally concentrated in order to build critical mass and research? It’s all well and good saying the Universities will give critical mass but do develop world standards of excellence. It recommends that the role of the Institutes we really need a critical mass of art students doing research. I’d rather put our faith in of Technology should continue to be primarily focused on applied research and that many of the fine engineers and scientist produced in CIT they should act as technology development partners with industry. On the challenge of achieving the Government’s investment objectives for 2010, the Report identifies Is the O.E.C.D. report another of these classic feel good exercises of the minister? Not the need to double the number of PhD students in our universities within that much has been implemented so far and there is a lot of resistance in various sectors timescale. This requires a much greater concentration of efforts and investment in to many of it s changes. Only time will tell. - James Maher, President postgraduate support than hitherto. CIT Honours Mechanical Engineering Degree Student declared Outright Winner of the Hewlett Packard Invent National Competition

“...John's research work has discovered and introduced Knowledge and Technologies, which will aid More Stable Filter Production, Shorter Lead In Time for New Products and Development of Superior Filters including Miniaturization for Minimal Invasive John Golden, Senior Manufacturing Engineer and Project Manager, Boston Scientific Cork. John Geary, (winner) Honours Mechanical Engineering Degree Student, CIT, Sean F. O'Leary, Senior Surgery. The major benefits of the John's project are to reduce Lecturer, CIT, Project Supervisor. Murtagh Murphy, Director of Engineering, Boston Scientific Cork. Patient Trauma and Stress and to optimise a Life Saving Device...”

At a ceremony in Hewlett Packard European HQ in Leixlip on February 25th, 2005, John's Award Winning project is concerned with analysis, testing and design optimisa- the final result of the HP Invent National Competition was announced. First Place has tion of a Prototype Blood Clot Filter. The Filter consists of a Six Legged Titanium been won by Cork Institute of Technology Honours Mechanical Engineering Degree Structure, which is inserted, utilising minimally invasive surgery techniques, into the graduate, John Geary, for his 2004 Final Year project titled "Vena Cava Blood Clot Vena Cava main vein, connecting the heart to the lungs. The filter works by filtering the Prototype Filter Hook Design Analysis and Testing ". blood passing through the vein and capturing any travelling blood clots (emboli), pre- venting a pulmonary embolism. John travelled home from Brisbane, Australia, especially for the HP Finals. The HP Invent Competition is open to all Final Year Undergraduate students in Science, At the end of each leg of the filter, a specially shaped hook is formed. These hooks are Information Technology and Engineering on the Island of Ireland. Judging Criteria are: critical to the efficient performance of the medical device. The hooks firmly attach the Innovation, Originality, Commercial Relevance and Excellence. John returned to filter to the vein wall and stabilise the orientation of the device relative to the blood Australia on 5th March. flow, while preventing excessive penetration and hence damage to the Vena Cava wall during operation. The HP Invent Competition is unique in that the initial screening process is based on submission and assessment of the Full Undergraduate Final Project Report. From a This project involves optimisation of the hooks formation for a prototype filter large island-wide entry, John had been selected by Hewlett Packard to a short-list of design. The new design concentrates on reducing the overall dimensions of the just 3 finalists. Overall Winner John Geary’s First prize consists of a Student Cash Prize filter hooks to reduce the size of the filter deployment cartridge required, of e5,000 plus a voucher of e2,500 to the college for HP IT Equipment. hence reducing patient stress during insertion.

Runner-Up Prizes of a Certificate and a HP Digital camera and printer were awarded Material property variation and structure behaviour during the forming processes are to the other two finalists: investigated. Finite Element Analysis and Experimental Testing/Validation has been undertaken to yield an improved formed hook design. • Queen's University Belfast Graduate, Robin Irwin, whose project concerned the 'Performance of Microwave PCB Material' The optimized hook design facilitates efficient manufacture and increased structural strength during operation. This outcome has been achieved through manipulation of • University College Graduate, Patrick Mohr, whose project was titled the hook microstructure and use of optimised forming operations. 'A Signal Processing Platform for a Study of Dystonia'. John's research work has discovered and introduced Knowledge and Technologies, Speaking at the award ceremony Lionel Alexander, vice president & general manager which will aid More Stable Filter Production, Shorter Lead In Time for New Products of HP Manufacturing Ltd. said “HP recognises the need for top graduates now more and Development of Superior Filters including Miniaturization for Minimal Invasive than ever and the critical need for constant innovation is the essence of this award. We Surgery. are delighted to say that this year we received a submission from almost every 3rd level institute both North and South and the projects were of the highest standard Since completing his final CIT Mechanical Engineering exams in June 2004, John has ever. Therefore the achievements of the three finalists are indeed remarkable.” been working with Queensland University of Technology in Australia on the related topic of the development of Titanium Scaffolds for Bone Tissue Growth. The winning project was carried out under the supervision of CIT Senior Lecturer Sean F. O'Leary in conjunction with Boston Scientific Cork. Séan F O’Leary

The major benefits of John’s project are to reduce patient trauma and stress and to optimise a life saving device. (Surgery to Beside Procedure above)

American J1 Experience Still on Top for Irish Students

As 97% of past participants recommend the experience to future students, the question is why do Irish students still want to go to America? Forty years after it all started, the answers are still the same as ever, as the latest report from USIT indicates. The survey, which tracked their students who participated in the J-1 in 2004, cited a percentage of 98% claiming that the potent mix of learn- ing about the US, meeting Americans, gaining international work experience and having fun, as the primary benefits of this college ‘ rite of passage’

So how did they do it? And where did they go? Resorts on the East and West Coast were the most popular destinations. While 51% had pre arranged employment the report revealed that even those who were less prepared had no difficulty in finding work. Over 70% had located a job in less than two weeks with almost half of all students choosing to engage in some aspect of the busy hospitality and tourism industries; including wait- ing tables in Hyannis, working in a resort complex in San Diego or a country club in Montauk. More spendthrifts than savers, Irish students took the work and travel combination to heart, as 70% visited up to three states and 26% travelled and explored in another three or four.

In summary, the average participant : • Worked in a hotel or restaurant • Stayed 10-12 weeks • Earned up to $4000 • Found housing within one week and shared an apartment with other students • Travelled by long distance bus to at least three states.

Grainne Ross , A communications student from DCU went to Chicago last sum- mer. She worked as a receptionist in a hotel in downtown Chicago and declared her summer on the J-1 as the best experience of her life so far.

“I made true friends for life and that is what its all about; meeting people and doing things you would never get the opportunity to do otherwise. I worked on the front desk of the hotel and usually had a 7 am start but I trained my body to sleep in two hour shifts and that way no party was missed! The Chicagoans were the kindest most helpful; people I had ever met…could put our land of a hundred thousand welcomes to shame! And there was so much to experience in the city itself; fireworks on the lake, blues bars, ball games at Wrigley Field, festivals in Boystown. If my student summers weren’t over I’d go back in a heartbeat!”

USIT is still accepting applications for the 2005 programme. Full details please visit your local USIT office on campus at CIT or log on to www.usit.ie CIT Students’ Union President

Since I last spoke to you the SU elections have taken place and I am starting work in some areas no one else has gone near and he has now in the process of assisting some of the officers elect to gain an been under tremendous pressure. He has come through with flying understanding of what we have been doing this past year and what colours. This leads me to my next statement. Daniel Keane is the I have been doing this past four years. Congratulations to everyone best Officer this union has had in the last four years. I include myself elected and hard luck to those who were not. in this assessment. His quality of work and dedication to the Union, his intelligent approach, his sheer number of hours put in has been I would just like to comment on the presidential election. Many second to none. The position this Union would be in this year with- people asked me which side I was on or which candidate I would out his tireless work would be unthinkable. I thank God the man like to have seen win. My answer would be both. Jeremy has been was elected last year. So I always knew whoever lost we would lose an ardent supporter of the SU for the past five years and is without someone good. doubt one of my very good friends. He has helped the officers of this Union on countless occasions and will make an incredible pres- Anyway we still have loads of work to do before May so as usual Interested in ident. I expect great things. On the other hand Daniel Keane has the door is always open. had to pick up the slack when our Education Officer left early. Giving Grinds? Regards, Add your name to our database This year I have asked more of the man than any other president James by email - [email protected] has asked of the Welfare Officer in years. We had the night Shuttle, CIT Students’ Union Vice President Welfare

Welcome back after the well deserved Easter break. I’m sure you all Crawford Street. I hope that all CIT Students support them in their took the opportunity to catch up on some sleep before the mad- continuing effort. ness between now and the summer. Only a few short weeks and we all will get our annual parole from CIT. Well that’s about my lot for this month, so I wish you all the very best of luck in the upcoming exams and hope that you get the Congratulations to Sinead O’Connell who will be taking over as result you deserve (and a little more!). your new vice-president welfare from 1st June. I wish her the very best of luck and I’m sure she’ll do a wonderful job. Take Care,

I have to say I enjoyed my stroll down Patrick’s Street as part of the Daniel Crawford convoy. Much work has been done lately to ensure that the college stays where it is in its present position on Sharman- CITSU Vice President Welfare Elect

Hi everyone, my name is Sinéad O Connell and I'll be your Welfare I'm really looking forward to working with the all new Student Officer for the 2005 - 2006 academic year. Union Executive, the upcoming year is sure to be an exciting time for CIT and I'm proud to be one of your elected representatives. Firstly I'd like to thank everyone who voted for me and I'd like to give my commiserations to my opponent, Aoife, it was a very close Regards, and exciting race. Sinéad

Show your support and log on to our new campaign website showing the disgraceful conditions faced by CIT students at Crawford College of Art & Design www.wheresmecollege.com Crawford College Site President Hi, my name is Susan Holland and I’m the transfer and multi media equipment. Students also have immediate access to galleries, Students’ Union Site-President at the theatres, cinemas, bookstores, parks, busy streets, cafes, city views and historical build- Crawford College of Art & Design. Last year I ings all of which are necessary to inspire creativity. graduated with a BA Hon. in Fine Art and am currently completing a Post-grad. in Crawford. After years of waiting, three solutions have been proposed 1- A new city-centre site The Crawford students have recently voted to 2- Development of the present site join CITSU, before this we held a separate 3- Development on main CIT campus union. As CCAD Site-President I will now be on the CITSU Executive. This change means Although option three would prove to be the cheapest, it is the least appropriate solu- that the Crawford will gain stronger representation and have more input into CIT mat- tion. The government has allocated e5.3 million to the Crawford, if the present prop- ters. I hope that this will lead to Crawford having increased interaction and co-opera- erty was sold it would raise in the region of e5 million and together these monies tion with CIT now and in the future. would fund a transfer to the Bishopstown campus. This would provide a large, new building on the main campus with access to all student services and facilities, but due At present the Crawford Art College is in a serious state of disrepair, facilities are inad- to the level of resources and amenities lost it is simply not an acceptable trade. equate, the building is sub-standard and has never been renovated appropriately to facilitate a third level Art College. Although our conditions are far from ideal, there are It is absolutely unpractical to expect students to commute regularly during valuable many positives to the present Crawford College, which continue to bring throngs of college hours to access all of these basic resources, which are so necessary to their new students year after year. education. The loss would be so great that it could completely reverse the increasing numbers applying to the college. The result being a decline of the Crawford’s long- The building itself, built in 1910, is full of character and history, has spacious rooms, standing reputation as an institute of artistic excellence. large windows, marble floors, original staircases, pillars and interesting nooks all of which add to the creative and inspiring quality of the college. We are located across In response to the proposal to relocate the Crawford to the main campus we have set from the stunning St Finbarrs Cathedral and minutes from the city centre. up ‘Where’s me College?’. This group is formulating a campaign to raise awareness of the problems Crawford would face if moved from the city centre. Letters to Ministers, This is the perfect location for a thriving Art College, which has undoubtedly con- a website, flyers, Art on Patrick Street, newspaper articles, radio interviews with stu- tributed greatly to the current cultural success of Cork City. Many artists’ collectives and dents and a march in the Patrick’s Day Parade are all planned. If you are interested log galleries established by past graduates have sprung up close to the Crawford College on to wheresmecollege.com for more information or to give your opinion. and form an integral part of the art students education. Regards, The city provides immediate access to all types of materials and services, such as paints Susan & mediums, rolls of paper, sculptural materials, photo developing, image printing & CIT Masquerade Ball - Sports & Societies Ball - IT Factor Final 2005 Pictures ies Ball - IT Factor Final 2005 Pictures

pics@ expliCIT.ie Pictures Colour Coded: Masqureade Ball Pics - Nigel Walsh To get your class party IT Factor Final photos in expliCIT: Pics - Daniel Keane • Hand them into the Main SU Office (C143) in an envelope with details of your class, the event in the photo and contact details to return the photos. Sport-Socs Ball • You can also email them to [email protected] but please ensure that each photo is high resolution (300dpi) and that the shot is up close and good! Pics - Vicky Lane & Philip O’Reilly • Finally, BEWARE of the expliCIT photographers at the Official CITSU Events!

Dr. Maurice Tracey of Science Foundation Ireland to Present Plenary Lecture at Research Forum Pictured above: Dr. Maurice Tracey Science Foundation Ireland “...He is responsible for guiding the research investments of an SFI division whose investment commitments now totalling e138 million. The Biotechnology Division supports research in the biological and other sciences underpinning biotechnology including bioengineering...”

The organising committee of the Post-Graduate Forum have announced that Dr. research in the biological and other sciences underpinning biotechnology including Maurice Treacy of the Science Foundation Ireland will be presenting the plenary lec- bioengineering. ture at the Forum on the 4th of May this year. Dr. Maurice Treacy is Director of the Biotechnology (BioT) Division in SFI. Prior to setting-up HiberGen, Dr. Treacy was Director of Strategy Management with ARIAD Pharmaceuticals, in Massachusetts, USA and, before that, instrumental in set- Dr. Treacy has had an outstanding career in research and more than thirteen years of ting up key programmes at Genetics Institute, a subsidiary of Wyeth. Prior to Wyeth, Dr. experience in the biotechnology industry, including senior positions in some of the Treacy was involved with drug assessment & development at Serono, the largest leading companies worldwide in that sector. Most recently Dr Treacy was co-founder biotechnology company in Europe and ranked third in the world based on revenues. and former CEO of HiberGen, Ireland's first indigenous genomics-based drug-discovery company. He is also listed as an inventor on over eighty international patent applications. A member of the International Human Genome Organisation and the Irish Genetics He is responsible for guiding the research investments of an SFI division whose invest- Society, Dr. Treacy received his Ph.D. from University College Dublin and his MBA from ment commitments now totalling e138 million. The Biotechnology Division supports Northeastern University, Boston, USA. The plenary lecture is opened to all. We Are Cynical

“...Ah the weather, the main topic of the Irish conversation. As the great Cork comedian, Pat Shortt, once said 'Ireland is a great country, if only you could roof it’. We complain of the rain when it rains, we complain of drought when the sun shines and when its mild, we start complaining about the rain again....”

Ireland is a nation of cynics. 'No, we're not!' is what you're probably saying. There you It was inevitable that the Cork Capital of Culture was going to get criticised. Even if they go: cynical. The evidence is all around us. Every time you open a newspaper, there's had a budget of one billion, installed an underground railway, built two stadiums, got more depressing news about government lack of funding, road deaths and the weath- U2 and Christy Moore to play at the opening ceremony, gave the artists and painters er. Ah the weather, the main topic of the Irish conversation. As the great Cork comedi- as many galleries as they wanted, brought Jack Lynch and Christy Ring back from the an, Pat Shortt, once said 'Ireland is a great country, if only you could roof it’. We com- dead, cleaned the Lee of shopping trollies, people would still have said 'Yeah, but plain of the rain when it rains, we complain of drought when the sun shines and when where's me Culture?' The first question asked of people about the opening ceremony its mild, we start complaining about the rain again. All the great Irish writers were was usually' anything bad about it?' All right, I'll tell you what was bad about it: you either depressed or cynical. And guess what? We all had the study these cynics 'work' asking that same annoying question all the time. The Cork Capital of Culture is a GOOD for our leaving cert. wasn't that great? Someone should have told them to get a prop- THING(repeat three times). We'll get more tourists and with any luck we'll get twenty- er job when they were writing about death, bad weather and Christ knows what else. four hour pubs out of this gig. Stop complaining and enjoy it.

The government has got to get a say here. I mean, let's face it, anything they introduce The problem with this country is that people complain about all the wrong things. I is bound to get criticised: the Luas, tax increases, tax cuts, smoking ban etc. The list is mean, what's the point of complaining about metric speed signs when they're already ever increasing. While Bertie is stuttering his way through one explanation about a new here. Do you think the county councils are going to get up early in the morning again, proposal, we have another five complaints lined up. We now call his party Fianna FAIL, remove the sign again and replace it with the new one, again? That's hard work! Before we posted Charlie McCreevy off to Brussels and don't get me started on our hesitation the English left us more than eighty years ago, they got all the flak and complaints. But, to improve our roads. Actually I will start complaining about that. While I agree that we when they went back to where they came from, we had nothing to complain about. must protect our national relics and stuff like that, thousands have to commute around Something had to be complained about. Since then, we've complained about govern- the country every day. Are these commuters going to care if they're driving over an ments, traffic, weather, Northern Ireland, tribunals, road deaths, manufactured pop undiscovered Celtic pot or belt buckle? That's right, nobody cares. Please get rid of all music, Catholicism, Charles Haughey (another tribunal), reality TV, Ryanair, rangers, the the red tape and get some roads built (hopefully before the four o’clock rush this DUP, the UUP, the USSR, the I.R.A., bad films, smoking bans, Fianna Fail, more tri- evening). bunals, expensive drink, expensive music, the spire, the eighties, the Green Party, Cork Capital of Culture 2005, America, fiat cars, and ... and ... complaining! My solution to Anyone that acts in a positive and uncynical way in Ireland is bound to get criticised. all this is simple. If Ian Paisley converted to Catholicism, people would find something wrong with that. If Britney Spears and Brian McFadden were shot (hopefully soon), people would com- It would focus all our attention on complaining about manufactured music and try and plain of the waste of lead. Although, that would be a reasonable complaint. People roll get a worldwide ban on it. If anyone tries to manufacture a 'band' out of tuneless mis- their eyes when Bono saves yet another country from famine, poverty or George Bush. fits, we'll just get George and Tony to carpet-bomb whatever country they're from. (Yet no one complains how badly he plays the guitar). We complain about Bertie World Peace could come from this. Terrorism would completely disappear. Bin Laden Ahern's attempts at peace in Northern Ireland yet we think Pat Rabbitte is a great would have to get a job at Tesco's Saudi branch to pay the bills and his ten wives. This politician even though he does damn all except, yes you guessed it, complain! solution may sound mad but is it any madder than George Bush's solution for peace? HCMC

The staff and management of the Rochestown Park Hotel would like to wish all CIT students the very best of luck with their forthcoming summer examinations.

Thank you for once again making the Rochestown Park Hotel CIT’s number one Ball Venue for 2005.We hope to see you all again next year. The Time of our Lives (me arse!)

“...Since I went to a mixed secondary school, the most strictly enforced rule of the weekend (supposedly) was that there was to be no mixing of sexes in the hostel bedrooms. However, the teachers mysteriously disappeared on the third night (some suggested a piss-up) and the lads and girls went wild...”

The main objective of our 5th year school trip to Dingle was to climb Mt. Brandon, Only later did we begin to question why the guy was standing naked in the middle of Ireland’s second highest mountain, which in a way was indicative of what a loser the room in the middle of the night. He claimed he was getting a drink of water from school it was. There were many exciting sub-quests, such as walking the Gap of his bag. Stevie Boy was humiliated again the following morning. He left his clothes Dunloe (not a clothes shop) and experiencing the day-to-day life of An Ghaeltacht and towels by the sink while taking a shower in the communal shower room. Mori (such a difference from the sprawling metropolis of Blarney). crept in and took Stevie Boy’s gear back to the bedroom. Moments later, Stevie emerged running through the hostel wearing only a shower curtain while shouting, The awful journey to our exotic destination was no reflection on the enjoyable stay “where’s me feckin’ clothes bah?!” itself. Due to my usual tardiness, the only seat left on the (roadworthy?) bus was next to the quietest girl since Marathon became Snickers. The conversation was unremark- Our aspirations of climbing Mt. Brandon were quashed by a night of heavy rainfall. able. The journey’s excitement was amplified by its outstanding radio soundtrack, The principal decided that underfoot conditions were treacherous and abandoned the which was provided by an ageing speaker system, and included hits like Wham’s Club expedition. Instead we were rewarded with an 863-mile walk around Slea Head, Tropicana and Lionel Ritchie’s Hello… starting in a place I never heard of and finishing in a similarly, yet differently named location. Apparently Slea Head is the best part of the country for viewing dolphins, We stayed in a luxury hostel approximately two miles from South Central Dingle. It whales and porpoises. But all the lads were looking at were the scantily clad German was a real bargain at £4 a night, which the school was reluctant to cover. On enter- tourists wearing hot-pants and skimpy halter tops. Most of the girls were looking at ing our eighteen bed suite (nine bunks) we were impressed with its ambience. It had the shirtless boyfriends who were built like fecking tanks. real character. It boasted an antique fireplace, which was no longer in use, and its floor rugs were an authentic shade of brown. The drapes were ragged and seemed Since I went to a mixed secondary school, the most strictly enforced rule of the week- dirty. It had a real classical feel that money couldn’t buy. The communal “entertain- end (supposedly) was that there was to be no mixing of sexes in the hostel bedrooms. ment” room had an immense fourteen inch portable TV. I believe it was connected However, the teachers mysteriously disappeared on the third night (some suggested a to a satellite dish and had many channels. Apparently, it had “all the dirty ones” and piss-up) and the lads and girls went wild. If the golden rule was adhered to, then it one of the teachers was rumoured to have been caught watching them late one could be deduced that two heavily breasted men with soft, effeminate voices awak- evening. The video library was widely varied and included Boyz N The Hood, Bambi, ened me from my slumber at approximately 3am. It was a truly insane night. Ernest Goes To Jail and The Erotic Adventures Of Hercules. The most interesting characters we encountered on the trip would have to be the We were under heavy guard for the first evening. Rego’s trip to the upstairs bathroom Dutch guys who were dressed as elves (even the shoes) and were smoking God knows revealed that five teachers were on duty and the girls’ bedrooms were particularly well what. Apparently, they could not afford the princely sum of £4 per night fee for a bed secured. Full of energy, we calmed ourselves with a permanent marker. Choosing in the hostel so instead they paid the more affordable £2 per night fee for pitching their not to sniff it, we instead wrote some amusing (and some disgraceful) messages on own tent in the hostel grounds. One of them was called Hulgar and he had an intrigu- our plain white t-shirts. One of the patrolling teachers smirked at my just-made ing theory on how aliens who were actually living in Cameroon would take over the “Frankie Say Relax” shirt as I went to brush my teeth. It must have brought back his world in 2002. Full moon… teen memories of the 80’s when he may well have actually sniffed permanent mark- ers, which was the style at the time. We had our disappointments too. We failed to throw the English teacher into the sea, which was an annual school tradition, and nobody “scored” at the céilí, which was We were making a terrible racket at 4.00 am when the principal stormed in and turned pretty much the same as any other teen disco, except the music was even worse and on our lights, only to reveal Stevie Boy standing bollock-naked in the middle of the everybody spoke Irish. But the craic we had together during our tiring walks around room. “Get into the bed ya feckin’ eejit!!” he roared. Stevie had chosen to sleep on the beautiful surroundings of Dingle, and the craic we had on those memorable nights a top bunk. His attempt to climb up to the bunk with one hand, while trying to cover in the hostel, made my fifth year school trip by far the most enjoyable activity holiday his arse with the other was one of the funniest things I’ve ever seen in my life. I felt I’ve experienced. sorry for young Hally who was lying on the bottom bunk and had a full frontal view of Stevie, in all his hairy glory. Self Help Africa

“...We cannot follow a line which suggests that it is the African people’s fault for their current situation – the current set of problems are due to a set of events put in motion over one hundred years ago by white people and although we have tried to help since it is this generation’s duty to put our heart and souls into solving the problem for ever...”

I remember visiting one school near Zeway in Ethiopia. A pupil asked me “what can elled to Ethiopia in 1984 and brought the dying children sweets. In today’s world there we do for them?” I have never seen somebody ask a question so full of hope. Now I is still an attitude of disconcern and ignorance with regard to Third World problems. I realise five years on that I could do nothing, only a national movement with many have been told that “a few plane loads of condoms would solve all the problems” and members and public support could pressure governments into making the type of that if life is so tough in these places why don’t the people just leave? decisions which would change Africa forever. Firstly if the families were much smaller then who would look after the parents in their As for this smart and bright student it is too late. Due to economic circumstances edu- old age? Secondly where would all of these people go if they left their own homeland cation for him would have ended at Junior Certificate level. He is roughly nineteen – and more so what country is going to welcome them! now and is either married with children, working on a one acre starvation plot or he has died of HIV or one of a number of so-called curable diseases. At the time of my It is easy to be sceptical when it keeps the money in your pocket. It is easy to believe visit he was the future of Ethiopia. the claims of politicians that “they are doing all that they can” when in fact they are not meeting the 0.7% of GNP pledged to Third World countries. I am reminded of the depths of poverty that exist in Africa. A typical schoolgirl’s morn- ing in Ethiopia will involve getting up at 5.00 am and walking a 15 km round trip to We cannot follow a line which suggests that it is the African people’s fault for their cur- fetch water from the nearest well. When she returns she will light a fire with sticks she rent situation – the current set of problems are due to a set of events put in motion found the day before. She will then share a small loaf of bread (maybe the only meal over one hundred years ago by white people and although we have tried to help since of the day) between her six to thirteen brothers and sisters and then walk 20 km to it is this generation’s duty to put our heart and souls into solving the problem for ever. 30km to school where she will join her class which has an average pupil/teacher ratio of 110 to 1. However, times are good for this girl – she is going to school. She has had That said this type of action is easier said than done. We must think big but act small. something to eat that morning and the well 15km away had not dried up so she was Self Help is building wells, improving health and providing education. Self Help works not thirsty. by helping people to help themselves. At a cost of e10.00 per person Self Help has made two million people self sufficient – this means no more handouts, no more help Meanwhile we at home in Ireland will get up at 8.00 am, fill the kettle with water and needed, there is an end and goals have been achieved. press the button to turn it on, we will then get into our cars, drive to work or college and complain about the traffic. Not to sound like my mother but do we really ever stop The communities where Self Help have worked have gone from strength to strength. to think about the other person or is it too easy to forget about the schoolgirl? - she The only problem is the demand from the communities for Self Help innovations. Far is far away, far removed and if we can avoid Mass and the 6 o’clock news then we outweighs the charity’s ability to supply them due to financial constraints. This is where need never think of her again. the Self Help for Africa Society CIT has come in. In the society we are raising aware- ness of the problems in Africa, we are raising vital life saving funds for the charity and However, I urge you to remember Africa is closer to us than both America and Australia we are getting students involved in a way that they can make a difference – no mat- where we all have friends and family. Africa is not on Mars. We have a responsibility to ter how little or large that contribution is. these people. When Tsunami occurred on St. Stephen’s Day there was a huge public response. We knew of people who had been to South East Asia or we had been there For Africa to develop it is vital that you make Africa an issue when deciding who you ourselves. We knew and understood what the people needed and how urgently it was vote for, you must base your purchase decisions on ethics, stay away from brands such required. As for Africa we know few people who have been there, it is out of sight and as Nestle, buy fair trade tea, coffee, chocolate, bananas etc., encourage and commend out of mind – it is easy to forget but we must instill in ourselves that we cannot alien- people when they donate – this is all directly saving lives. ate an entire continent any longer – there are millions of people looking towards us with nothing but hope. At Self Help CIT we are nurturing at grassroots a national movement which will change the populations attitude towards Africa. For us to succeed and reach our goals we must I find it ironic that people laugh in disbelief at Marie Antoinettes’s comment during the grow and develop all the time – we are always looking for new members – just look French Revolution – when she was told that the people had no bread to eat she at the “What’s On” and come along to our meetings or get involved with our twenty famously stated “let them eat cake”. More recently the Archbishop of Cantebury trav- four hour fast on 6th April next. Self Help Africa Society

About Self Help. made out of oil cans to an actual oil lamp made from a Coke can. It is hard for us at home in Ireland to understand the poverty and lack of raw materials which exist in Self Help focuses on development work in countries where food shortage is a constant Africa – However, this exhibition shows how the African people are making the best of threat. The charity works with communities to promote sustainable, long-term change. a bad situation and are using every means at their disposal to overcome the difficul- Founded in response to the crisis in Ethiopia in 1984, Self Help aims to assist Africans ties they encounter. to regain their independence and become self-sufficient, so that outside help will be unnecessary in the future. Self Help works in Ethiopia, Malawi, Eritrea, Uganda and Kenya. Self Help Africa 24 Hour Fast 6th April. The Self Help for Africa Society is holding its 24 hour fast on the 6th April. We are cur- The Value of Rubbish rently looking for people to participate in the Fast. All money raised will go towards long term famine prevention programmes, health schemes and education in some of The Value of Rubbish Exhibition was displayed by the “Self Help for Africa Society,” in the poorest areas in the world. Sign up at our stand between the Atria. All money Cork Institute of Technology in March. The aim of the exhibition was to portray the real raised by the Self Help for Africa Society from the 24 hour fast will be multiplied by six. Africa and the innovativeness and resourcefulness of its people. It is fantastic to see what the African people have done with what we would consider rubbish. All the items Colm Crowley, displayed were actually serving a purpose in their country of origin. From a baby bath Chairperson Self Help Africa Society CD Review: Open Your Mind - CIT Music Society compilation

Just recently, I hopped my poor little CD player off the They serve as a constant reminder to open your mind. If ground. Needless to say, a couple of pieces came loose and you think you are going to fall asleep to this album, forget numerous ominous cracks erupted into the night (not to it and turn the volume up marine cause is still got some ass mention several curses). Hence when writing this review, I to kick. was unable to listen to these gentle rhythms, stirring bal- lads and bad-ass rifts as it were. And yet, in my mind I am Over many years theses bands have worked to perfect clear that this CD is the one that will make me dig out my every possible mistake in their performances. Many have shattered CD player and revive it from the ashes of the written lyrics that relive past emotions, feelings and grave. I wonder why? achievements. The songs are steeped in fragrant emotion that at times is utterly confounding. Guitars sing in tandem. Firstly this album does not depend upon one song as so Strings vibrate in the open air with unconfined joy. Ballads many compilations in today’s market. I have often been are created that usher in tumultuous roars and most of it duped into buying a one-song album. The bands evoke starts with a single pen scratching on an ink void sheet of quite preludes to conversations, glimmering crimson and parched parchment. From this world devoid of inspiration love for the whole world. That’s not to mention the actual other students have created ballads. talent on display. While listening one undergoes journey that encompasses learning, rubys’ and many, many bridges. Finally I must acknowledge and thank those in the produc- tion of an excellent compilation. CIT music society indeed Speaking of bridges brings me to my second reason to dig proves that the capital of culture at least has one fine CD to out my screwdriver and finally get rid of that stale pizza boast about. All the proceeds of the CD go towards autism, under the bed. Certain music types are grouped together so a worthy charity. Least of all I must compliment my stupid- that one song leads on to the next. However, these groups ity on dropping my diskman on the ground. Now where’s are but little cherries in one big martini (sorry there is only the superglue. one). Between these cherries are tracks that do not really conform to the general rock feel of the album. Donough Shanahan HAWKES ROAD PHARMACY • Passport Photographs e4.00 Opening Hours: • Photograph Processing Monday to Friday: 9:30am - 18:30pm • All Prescriptions Dispensed Saturday: 9:30am - 6:00pm • Stockists of Gosh, Vichy, RoC & La Roche Posay Cosmetics Hawkes Road Pharmacy, Hawkes Road, Bishopstown (Next to Bishopstown Post Office). TEL: 021 4348331 The Battle’s Won but the War Continues CIT Music Students Showcase the Best of Irish Music

It can’t be that time already, Easter is over, study is in full power and missing notes are our reckoning this will be a timeless compilation and demonstrates what Cork has to under full search. This also signifies yet another close to the CIT music society and offer. (Copies still available at the Students union for e5). what a great year we have had. Firstly, lets take a look at the ‘Battle of the Bands’. Fifteen bands entered this competition for the desired prize of playing guest to Ongoing projects include free showcases in great venues, discounted instrument les- ‘Kerbdog’ on the 8th of April. This had to be narrowed down to four bands for the sons, reduced on-campus studio rates and the offer of advice on any aspect of music. final heat, which were ‘Lunar Symphony, Houl’in Boi, Flatline and Serum’. To cut a long The academic year of 2004/2005 has been one of the busiest to date in the college’s story short, ‘Serum’ took the prize with their ecstatic stage performance - well done to history and we hope to maintain this level of activity throughout next year. Remember you lads and to all the bands that entered. you don’t have to be a musician to join or be a part of the Society, so next year get involved, voice your ideas at meetings and Societies day. Thanks to CIT and everybody All five nights were jam-packed and some each band performed to their best. In addi- that got involved. tion the Society thanks Mervyn & Emma, Nancy Spains (Mick & Ger), Tom from Fredz, all judges involved (James, Ger, Mark, Liam and Robbie) and to everybody for coming Cheerz along and voting. Shane (see ye at ‘Kerbdog’).

Another major project we undertook was our compilation CD, although sales were not Music society is listening to: Yes, Ten Past Seven, Oxes, Trail of the Dead, Captain as projected, the compilation is so varied and comprises of such incredible talent. In Insano and Helmet. Paul Bley and Mark O'Leary Concert at Half Moon Theatre Gig Review by Patrick Tuite

Recently the Half Moon Theatre saw a collaboration between tion of both players. They brought the audience down a pathway one of contempory jazz’s most creative and accomplished and through a story; a story told through a fusion of rippling pianists and a renowned local guitarist, the world famous rhythms, sweeping passages and lyrical melodies, while demon- improvisation innovator from Canada Paul Bley on piano and strating their own unique compositional capabilities and display- Mark O'Leary on guitar. ing a distinctive, personal voice through their instruments.

The two musicians provided a perfect score to the ambiance of Each of the ideas explored were performed through an interpre- the venue and seemed to connect with the audience. From the tation of the mood of both the audience and that of the players highs to the lows every emotion was present through out the and the changes in the atmosphere. entire improvised set. It was as if two players became one Enhanced by the intimacy The musician-ship of both players was impeccable, almost as if of the venue this was the warmest most emotive concert per- it was improvisation with direction; the layering of each of the formed by Mark O’ Leary, which I have had the privilege and virtuoso styles produced a canvas of sound ranging from the pleasure of being witness to. By far, the best performance given mainstream of jazz, right to pushing the barriers of the imagina- by Mark O’ Leary..

Would you like to write for us? [email protected] or you can drop into the SU office in C143 to talk to us. Feeder - Pushing The Senses Album Reviewed by: James Holland (7/10) Domino’s is tempting all pizza lovers to get ready for incredible nights of indulgence with its new Double Feeder’s fourth album Comfort In Sound is amongst the most frequently Decadence™, the world’s first double-decker pizza. Perfect for sharing, it’s the definitive treat for a romantic evening played in my 300+ collection. Unfortunately their fifth studio outing Pushing in or a special celebration with friends and family. Double Decadence™ has two thin and crispy bases sandwiched The Senses didn’t strike me as anything special during my first listen. In fact together with a creamy cheese and herb sauce and topping of your choice. From the moment you take your first bite I was so disappointed, I put the CD back in its case and didn’t listen to it for you know you’re about to experience a brand new taste sensation that’s truly indulgent. If you’re planning a cosy again for nearly a week. During that unexciting week I remembered that its night in with your loved one, choose Double Decadence™ topped with Pepperoni Passion® or really heat things up predecessor was no instant hit with me either, and I decided that the latest with a Spicy Hot One! Alternatively, why not invite the girls round for a night of pampering, complete with facemasks, offering deserved another, more concentrated listen. Many later, I am begin- foot-soak and the ladies favourite, Double Decadence™ Hawaiian pizza? Boys won’t miss out, as the double layers ning to gain some appreciation for this well-produced album. mean there’s even more to go round, perfect for a night in watching the footy with a few beers and a Mighty Meaty! Feeder have matured since their sweaty, teen rock days of yesteryear (“Just A Dedicated to delivering made-to-order, piping hot pizza on time, every time, Domino’s uses fine, fresh ingredients Day” and “Buck Rogers” to name but two examples) and the introspective and with millions of pizza options on the average Domino’s menu, customers will be spoilt for choice! beauty of Comfort In Sound is still present in their latest offering. The melan- cholic feel of Comfort In Sound (which was inevitable following the suicide The double decadence pizza comes in 11.5 inch medium size only and Û of the band’s talented drummer Jon Lee) is still present but there is less con- for an additional 2.00 you will not get a better pizza anywhere else. fusion and anger in Grant Nicholas’ lyrics. Instead, Pushing The Senses emits waves of positive energy from under its mellow guise, reflecting Nicholas’ Another great offer from Domino’s regained optimism and desire for life. This is evident right from the opener “Feeling A Moment” with its soaring chorus and feeling of security: “Don't Double Decadence™, with double Coke*, double ever feel that you're alone/ I'll never let you down/ I'll never leave you dry.” Ben & Jerry’s ice cream** for only Û 22.00 “Tumble And Fall” is a typical Feeder single, with its gentle acoustic intro over * 2 cans of drink 330 ml ** 2 Ben & Jerry’s ice cream 106 ml soft electronics before the chorus erupts into an energetic mash of guitars. Please feel free to Most of the songs on the album have that sort of quiet/loud contrast, which call us for details on works quite effectively. They drag you down before picking you up. However, our large range of they retain a melodic Feeder feel and, as a result, remain characteristically Pizzas & Toppings catchy. As well as being an impressive lyricist and vocalist, Nicholas has an impressive diversity to his musicianship, playing both guitars and keyboards while also being responsible for most of the string arrangements used in the album.

Title-track “Pushing The Senses” and “Pilgrim Soul” are heavier, high-tempo rock songs. “Pilgrim Soul” has its darker moments, as Nicholas sings in a low- key: “All that you face, you lose, abuse/ Carry the cross, the faith, the loss, the weight,/ the bruise/ Falling, I'm falling…”

However, the uplifting finale prevents the song from depressing: “…life's for livin', so don't you give in/ Don't you tear it apart… life's for givin' so don't Open Noon - you give in/ Don't you tear it apart…” Midnight - 7 Days 365 Days a Year! The two closing songs, “Pain on Pain” and “Dove Grey Sands” are without the heavy riff choruses of earlier efforts and both songs relax in a positive way. “Wait for love, for love/ You know it can happen/ Wait for love for love/ The touch of a hand, to heal yourself/ You can heal, can't watch you fall.”

When I was seventeen, Feeder gave me “Just A Day” to rock to, when I was 19, they gave me “Love Pollution” to cry to, and now, at twenty one, they haven’t really given me anything to evoke such an impulsive, emotional response. It’s still a decent, solid and emotive album and there is nothing 021 4222288 particularly wrong with it. However, after the poignant and almost flawless 26A, WASHINGTON STREET, CORK - WWW.DOMINOS.IE Comfort In Sound (it would have been without the awful “Godzilla”), I have to admit that Pushing The Senses is a disappointment. CIT Sports Round-up by Emma Martin CIT Rugby Ladies Soccer CIT Senior 1’s 36 Garda Training College 17 WSCAI Challenge Cup The 1st having tasted defeat for the first time this season last week against W.I.T., were CIT travelled to the Capital in February for their Challenge Cup semi final versus determined to get back on track. CIT took the game straight at the Garda and almost Colaiste Ide. Despite missing two key players from the travelling squad, confidence had complete possession for the first 30 minutes of the game resulting in 3 very well was high of advancing to the final. Mairead Kelly missed out through involvement in taken tries from Darragh Hurley, Paul Hurley and Michael Essex, two of which were the organisation of CIT’s ?uro Star Final, which was on the evening of match. converted by Colin Mahony. Then the Garda managed to intercept a pass on their own Goalkeeper Aoife Kelliher also missed out due to participating in the final and was the twenty two, racing into the CIT half, they recycled the ball quickly catching the Cork winner of Best Original song. With the strength and depth that CIT have in their squad, team, who were scrambling back into defence, off guard and finishing the passage off and the hard work that has been put in by all the players, Coach Niall O’Regan was with a well taken try which they also converted. Half time 19-7 confident of the getting the result they needed.

Cork were rattled by the loss of the score before half time and allowed the Garda to Playing conditions weren’t the best on the day and played a key factor in the outcome take the initiative early in the second half. The Garda scored to well taken tries, both of the game. Originally the game was to be played on Astro turf due to bad state of unconverted leaving the score 19-17. Cork, led by Tim Ryan (Capt.), were stung into the Dublin pitch, and given the eventual condition of the pitch they may have been action. The pace was upped, the tackles became fierce and the possession began to better off sticking to the Astro turf. Although circumstances were the same for both flow again for the Cork side. Indiscipline set in on the Garda side, as they became stuck teams, CIT failed to settle in the early stages of the game. A free kick taken by Dee in their own half completely starved of the ball, this resulted in their captain being sin Calnan 10yards outside the CIT penalty area saw the gale force winds carry it back to binned. Cork sensing victory upped the tempo further and were justly rewarded with CIT goalkeeper Joan O’Donnell. Evidence of conditions both teams had to endure. second tries for both Michael Essex and Paul Hurley, one of which was converted by Colaiste Ide had the best of the opening exchanges, capitalising on CIT’s poor start. Colin Mahony to leave the final score 33-17. The PARCHMENT SQUARE Man of the Midway through the half CIT’s misery continued as they let the Dublin side take the match award went to PAUL HURLEY who put in an incredible performance lead. At half time CIT were fortunate not to be further behind and this seemed to spur them into action. CIT began the second half with much more purpose and with the CIT Senior 1’s have now guaranteed themselves a top seed position for the semi-finals. kind of football that has gotten them to this stage of the competition. However, Colaiste Ide were strong in defence and rarely gave CIT any clear opportunities on goal. Freshers competition begins in style for CIT CIT were always up against it in the second half, chasing the 1-0 deficit. As they pushed forward trying to get that all important equaliser, Colaiste Ide caught them on CIT Freshers 49 U.L. Freshers 0 the break and scored their second of the game. This gave CIT a real uphill battle to The freshers, who have waited a long time for this competition to begin, took to the turn the fixture around. In true CIT fashion the team kept battling right to the final field against a fancied U.L. CIT were pinned back in their own half for the first twenty whistle, but it just wasn’t to be. Captain Dee Calnan was very disappointed with the minutes, until a fantastic break from Mike Kingsbeer brought CIT a penalty on their result. “We’ve had a good run of form lately including our Indoor Intervarsity Cup suc- opponents twenty-two. Jeremy Manning stepped up and coolly slotted home the first cess so this result is bitterly disappointing. We never really got going enough to put score. From the kick off, CIT drove into the oppositions half, the ball was moved right them under any major pressure.” and Mike again found himself in space and made his way into the U.L. twenty two, where he set his man and gave a lovely weighted pass to James Kenny to score under WSCAI Intervarsity Qualifiers the posts, converted by James himself to leave the score 10-0. The forwards feeling left CIT were in action on 26th February in The Farm, when they took part in the qualify- out lifted their game and after a number of phases forced their way over through ing stages of the WSCAI Intervarsities. Five teams had to battle it out for the final three Darragh Hurley, just before the break (converted by Jeremy Manning). Half time 17-0. places in the WSCAI Intervarsities which take place in March over a 3day period.

Second half saw a beaten U.L. try their best to stem the CIT attack, however they CIT first game saw them come up against League rivals NUIG. CIT started brightly cre- became totally outplayed resulting in further tries for James Kenny(2), Darragh Hurley, ating some great chances. Caroline Hanley broke through the NUIG defence with Michael Essex, Mike Kingsbeer and Jeremy Manning, one of which was converted by great pace and was denied a shot on goal by great tackle by the NUIG defender. James Kenny. Final Score 49-0 Hanley again was in the thick of things minutes later when she sidestepped the oppo- sition and hit a shot from 20yards out, only to see it come back off the crossbar, Freshways Man Of The Match went to James Kenny Mairead Kelly was quickest was to react to the rebound but the was denied by the NUIG Keepers full stretch save. This CIT pressure sparked NUIG into life and they Other Info: began to attack with purpose. Out of what seemed like nothing, NUIG took the lead, Frank Murphy - former student, gets his first start for Munster in the Celtic League game a great run down the wing saw the ball being crossed into the forward and her low versus Ulster on Friday night After having a wonderful season thus far for UCC in the drive found its way through the CIT players and into the bottom corner. AIL Second Division, we would like to wish Frank all the best on Friday night. Hopefully In the second half CIT continued to threaten NUIG’s defence but failed to finish the a lot of you might make the trip down to Musgrave park Friday and cheer on Frank, chances they created. With time running out fast CIT’s best chance fell to Jenny Duffy. who will be vying for the Peter Stringer cover role in the upcoming European Cup Her pace saw her run onto a through ball from Kelly, only to see her effort roll the match wrong side of the post. This result meant if CIT won their next game they would now http://rugby.cit.ie have to play a 3rd game against the losers of Letterkenny and Mary Immaculate College Limerick. Before this, they faced Trinity, a team they had drawn against earli- a result they began to play the kind of football that has gotten them to this stage of er in the season in the league campaign. CIT were patient in their build up to creat- the season. As they continued to press forward they were denied taking the lead by ing chances, pulling Trinity out of position. It wasn’t until just before half time when a few great saves from the GMIT keeper. CIT were rewarded for their patience ten min- CIT finally broke the deadlock. The ball was neatly passed between, Duffy, Hanley and utes from time as a GMIT defender handle a goal bound shot. Richards stepped up to Kelly before Kelly fired a cracking shot from outside the area into the top corner. CIT the penalty spot to fire home what proved to be the winner. continued to pressure Trinity in the second half and were rewarded when Dee Calnan’s cross from a free kick was forced over the line by Hanley. Next up was University of Limerick. Against a strong UL team CIT played some very attractive football and opened up the Limerick side on a few occasions, asking ques- CIT’s third and final game saw them come up against Mary I from Limerick. The result tions of their usually strong defence. UL created little in the first half to show why they never looked in doubt as CIT dominated this game from the start. Jenny Duffy got CIT are current holders but at the start of the second they upped the tempo of the game. off the mark as she tapped home the opening goal. Kelly’s shot had initially been well CIT did well to hold the UL onslaught, but midway through the second half they broke saved by the Limerick keeper but Duffy reacted quickest. Duffy was again at the heart the deadlock. CIT continued to put pressure on the UL defence trying to get the of the second goal. She began the move by playing a quick one two with Katie Aherne, equaliser that would seal their semi final place. With CIT pressing forward UL were before lobbing the keeper from 10yards out. The 3rd goal was a great individual effort prepared to soak up the pressure and catch CIT on the break, which led to another by Caroline Hanley; breaking from the defence on the right wing she unleashed a shot goal for UL. With minutes to go further misery was inflicted on CIT as an own goal from the corner of the 18-yard box into the top corner giving the keeper no chance. sealed victory for UL. Goal number 4 was the result of some great team play. Starting from the left side, where Eileen McCarthy showed great strength in holding off the opposition to pass the Despite this loss CIT were still confident of a place in the Plate semi-final, with GMIT ball into Kelly in midfield. It was worked right across to the right hand side before find- and UL to meet Friday morning. However with UL needing only a draw, they fielded ing Kelly in the box. Kelly did well to turn the Limerick defender before shooting low a weakened team against GMIT and as a result found themselves 2-0 down in the first into the goal. The fifth and final goal which sealed a fine performance by CIT was half. UL’s tactics changed as they made the substitutions to their usual full strength scored by Maureen Hussey. Arguably the goal of the game as Eileen McCarthy’s shot team. They pulled one goal back but failed to get the equaliser. However this 2-1 came back up off the upright, Hussey’s quick thinking saw her chip the keeper from defeat was enough to see UL through to the Cup semi final and GMIT to the Plate semi the narrowest of angles. CIT could now look forward to the Intervarsity due to take final. As a result CIT were knocked out on goal difference. A harsh way to exit a com- place in Castlebar on the 10/11/12th March. petition where they had high hopes of success, unfortunately CIT learnt a lesson the hard way that the goals conceded in the victory over GMIT knocked them out of the WSCAI Intervarsities competition. GMIT went on to be beaten in the semi final by Tralee and UL advance The girls travelled to Castlebar Wednesday 9th March for the much awaited Intervarsity to the Cup Final only to be beaten 7-0 by Sligo. Finals. CIT were grouped with last year’s winners UL and hosts GMIT Castlebar. The girls were confident of a semi final place in either the Cup or the Plate. Congratulations to UCC who retained the Plate for another year after they defeated Tralee IT 3-2 in the final. Most teams in the WSCAI are finished for another year but First up was the fixture versus GMIT. CIT began brightly creating some clear chances. CIT have a promotion play off to look forward to. The girls will travel to Waterford over Mairead Kelly continued her good form this season by opening the scoring for CIT. the Easter holidays for this fixture. WIT are not to be taken lightly. They were the first Winning the ball just outside the 18yard box, Kelly beat her opponent to put her Institute of Technology to be promoted to the Premier division, when it was mainly through 1v1 with the keeper. CIT relaxed into the game but were given a wake up call dominated by Universities. They remained there until a few years ago when they were by GMIT as a lack of concentration saw GMIT equalise midway through the half. CIT relegated for the first time, but within 2 years they were back in the premier division stepped up a gear and a fine individual effort from Kariena Richards gave CIT a 2-1 again. CIT in contrast first gained promotion to the Premier Division in 1991 and lead just before half time. Winning the ball 20 yards out, Richards struck a shot, which stayed there until they were relegated last year. CIT are looking for a quick return to sailed over everyone into the top left corner. In the second half, GMIT came out all the Premier Division and the challenge it offers, where the standard of play is much guns blazing and once again caught CIT napping, levelling the score 2-2. CIT realised higher. their chance of a semi final place was slipping away if the score stayed as it was. As

APRIL CITSU CORK PRIZE THIS MONTH - 30 EUROS! INSTITUTE TECHNOLOGY NAME: ...... STUDENTS UNION EXPLICIT PHONE: ...... GRINDS EXAMINATIONS PROJECTS CLASS: ...... SOCIETIES COMPETITION CLOSES 5PM MONDAY 18th April 2005. SPRING PLEASE RETURN TO STUDENTS’ UNION MAIN OFFICE (C143) FORUMS ALL ENTRANTS MUST BE CIT STUDENTS & ENTRIES WEBSITE MUST BE ON OFFICIAL FORM. GOOD LUCK! FOOL LAST MONTH’S WINNER: Eileen Cuspie - DNET4 - e30