ISSUE 24 VOLUME 2 Proudly Serving Celts in North America Since 1991 FEBRUARY 2015

WELSH schoolchildren wave the red dragon – the official na- tional flag of Wales. On March 1 Welsh around the world cel- ebrate the feast day of Saint David, the patron saint of Wales. [To learn more, see pages 2 & 8]

Are you ready for CelticFest Vancouver? Twelve fun-filled days of Celtic entertainment from March 6-17. Check out the full line-up on page 6.

ARTWORK BY: Nataša Ilincic, artist and illustrator. ‘With a heavier back....comes a lighter spirit’ This month’s cover artwork is by artist Nataša Ilincic. She was inspired after a visit to Wales last year where she worked on an organic farm near Llanidloes, experiencing rural life, sleeping in a barn, tending to animals and wandering through the hills nearby. [For more about the artist, see page 2]

NORTHERN IRELAND WIN FREE TICKETS SEVENTY-FIVE years since CANADA’S new Ambassador Win free tickets to Festival du Bois Mackin Park, Coquitlam, starting Febru- PARTIES AGREE ON his “finest hour” in leading the to Ireland Kevin Vickers pre- ary 26 (see page 4 for details). Entry by February 19. Mark your entry: A £2 BILLION DEAL fight against fascism in the sented his credentials to Presi- Festival du Bois. Second World War, Winston dent Higgins at Áras an Win tickets to CelticFest, to A Tribute to the Pogues at the Imperial, 319 TO SECURE Churchill is remembered as “a Uachtaráin on January 21. Main Street, Vancouver on March 7 (see page 6 for details). Entry by February great leader and a great His reputation at home was 26. Mark your entry: Pogues. POWER-SHARING SEE PAGE 23 Briton” at events to mark 50 elevated to hero status for his Enter to win a pair (2 tickets) to see Celtic Thunder at Abbotsford Centre, years since the former prime role in stopping a gunman in- Abbotsford on March 10; or in Edmonton at Enmax Hall, Winspear Centre on • March 16; or at Calgary on March 18 at Jack Singer Concert Hall (see page 15 minister’s State funeral. side Canada’s parliament on for details). Entry by: February 26. Only one entry per location. Mark your CATHRYN AND DANNY [See page 11] October 22. [See page 21] entry: Celtic Thunder & the city. QUINN ARE THIS YEAR’S Win a pair (2 tickets) to see The Irish Rovers at the Massey Theatre, New Westminster on March 13 (see page 2 for details). Entry by February 26. HONORARY GRAND Mail Agreement: Publication Mark your entry: Rovers MARSHALS OF SEATTLE’S 40009398 Win tickets to CelticFest Ceilidh at the Imperial, 319 Main Street, Vancouver on March 14 (see page 6 for details). Entry by February 26. Mark your entry: ST. PATRICK’S DAY Ceilidh PARADE ON MARCH 14. Entries by e-mail only. Mark the name of the event on your entry, including OR FULL DETAILS your name and daytime telephone number. (Only one entry per person.) Send F , to: [email protected]. SEE PAGES 24 & 25 PAGE 2 www.celtic-connection.com FEBRUARY 2015 Spring Arrives in Dark Times Time cannot be turned back. On an in- HE Celtic spring arrived at twilight on creasingly heated planet, tempers flare Imbolg, February 1. Yet the caul of win- and life gets cheaper every year. ter holds fast. Perhaps every generation decries the T worsening brutality of its times. Vio- As ever, this column is pre- lence begets violence. By CYNTHIA WALLENTINE pared prior to publication. As Yet in that violence, in the lives snuffed I write this, my heart grieves out, come stories of men and women who were where they were because from the tragic news of the they were trying to help. death of yet another victim in Ordinary people became aid workers, the strife-ridden Middle East. others tried to give voice to those with- out. Kenji Goto, a 47-year old journalist and family man lost his life in the unre- A journalist guessed what was ahead – lenting savagery that has gripped our and still chose to cross the line to save world. another. He lost his life but not in vain. From news reports, we hear Mr. Goto Mr. Goto was an ordinary man with travelled willingly to Syria to try and win extraordinary compassion and courage. the freedom of a countryman. Both men On a planet convulsed in pain, Mr. Goto were mercilessly beheaded. KENJI GOTO was a man who tried to expose and improve the lot of I will not pretend to be adequately in- dreamed of worldwide peace those who suffer, particularly children. formed on the politics of the day, or that and fought for it without guns. In pursuing his personal mandate, he region. Like many, I struggle to keep Let’s remember him as a hero met an untimely and tragic death. head and household above water and of the free world and not as a get through each day. But the deepen- victim of IS. In the small and large moments of every ing cruelty between humans, and its day, and every life, we all make choices. broadening reach, cannot be ignored. Mr. Goto paid the ultimate price for his “Engage our world, choice of compassion. Last night I attended a local school pro- gram. Talented students sang, played instead of He will be missed by those who love musical instruments and danced. him, and those who never knew him. The world is diminished. How many, I wondered, will close their killing it.” eyes on this world as a result of the But Mr. Goto tried. He acted for his personal or impersonal violence that has The minds and lives of children are poi- own, undoubtedly complex, reasons. bullied itself into local and national head- soned by acts and images they are too Precious blood seeps into the ground lines? young to bear. where he fell, giving strength to those Our society is woefully inured to vio- The paths and pursuits of adults are who would follow their heart, aspire to lence. We accept it with grief, then sta- ruthlessly terminated when they hap- courage and walk the thin line between tistics and move on. What else is to be pen into the wrong place at the wrong life and death to try and save a fellow done? I have no answers. time – whether it is a war-torn country, man, woman or child. a sports event, a café or a public build- Throughout history, humans have tried But the creeping bloodstain takes its toll. ing. As minds and hearts toughen to the in- and failed in the darkest of times. They evitability of terrorist and other acts of Violence is endemic to the human race. become our saints, our heroes, our leg- violence, the energy of evil plants itself We are an often cruel and historically ends. St. David: Patron Saint of Wales where it never should grow. violent species. The good earth is stained with their “Be joyful and keep your faith and your creed. blood and their courage is metabolized Do the little things that you have seen me do ABOUT OUR COVER ARTIST into our own. and heard about. I will walk the path Take the small step – or the big one – that our fathers have trod before us.” Nataša Ilincic is an artist and illustrator based to help someone or something today. – St. David, Patron Saint of Wales (D. 569) in Italy. Born in Sarajevo (BiH), she has been Hold a door open, make a contribution, Saint David’s Day (Welsh: Dydd In the Sixth Century, he founded a living in northeast Italy since she was two volunteer some time. Gwyl Dewi,) is the feast day of Saint monastery and church at Glyn years old. After graduating in classical stud- David, the patron saint of Wales, and Rhosyn (Rose Vale) on the banks of Say a kind word, recognize the equal ies she has studied archaeology. She de- falls on 1 March each year. The first the River Alun. humanity of the downtrodden, have day of March was chosen in remem- votes her spare time to art, occasionally cre- courage and try to nourish the seeds brance of the death of Saint David. David’s fame as a teacher and as- ating art on commission for private clients. planted by those who sacrifice for Tradition holds that he died on that cetic spread throughout the Celtic world. The monastic brotherhood he For more information about her work, see her higher aims. day in 569. The date was declared a national day of celebration within founded was very strict – besides blog at: http://natasailincic.blogspot.it, or visit Engage our world, instead of killing it. praying and celebrating masses, they her Facebook page at: https:// Wales in the 18th century. In coming seasons, be someone who cultivated the land and carried out www.facebook.com/natasa.ilincic.art. tries, even if you fail. It matters. David was the son of King Sant of many crafts, including beekeeping, in South Wales and Saint Non. He was order to feed themselves and the ordained a priest and studied under many pilgrims and travellers who Saint Paulinus and was involved in needed lodgings. They also fed and missionary work and opened many clothed the poor and needy. monasteries.

THE CELTIC CONNECTION

ISSUE 24 VOLUME 2 - Established in 1991 #452 - 4111 Hastings Street, Burnaby, B.C. V5C 6T7 Tel: (604) 434-3747 • www.celtic-connection.com Maura De Freitas - Publisher - • E-Mail: [email protected] Catholine Butler - Advertising - • E-Mail: [email protected] Colleen Carpenter - Copy Editor • Ainsley Baldwin - Ad Production Distribution: Arlyn Lingat • Tom Butler • Allison Moore • Linda Robb • Frank Dudfield in Surrey • Neville Thomas in Burnaby & Coquitlam • Eifion Williams in Burnaby & Coquitlam • Doug Medley in North Vancouver • Gabriel Clark in Coquitlam & Port Moody • Joanne Long in Mission • Bill Duncan in Maple Ridge • Deirdre O’Ruaric, Ray & Mary Fynes, Gerry O’Keefe in White Rock • Nanci Spieker and Heather Murphy in Seattle • Oliver Grealish in Edmonton. Published 10 times per year. Unsolicited submissions welcome but will not be returned. Please retain a copy for your files. Contents copyright 2015 The Celtic Connection. Opinions expressed here are not necessarily those of the publisher but rather a reflection of voices within the community. All correspondence must include a name, address and telephone number. Canada Post Canadian Publications Agreement 40009398 FEBRUARY 2015 www.celtic-connection.com PAGE 3 Play inspired by real-life dramas of new Irish in Vancouver By CATHOLINE BUTLER many more. He is also an accom- VANCOUVER – My grandmother plished voice artist, voicing several dif- always maintained that after the ferent characters on Lego/Cartoon Network’s Legends of Chima. long winter our bodies need a tonic. Having spent the past six years in Van- couver, Michael was inspired by the sto- Cork-born Michael Patric is just ries of some of the many new Irish peo- the man to provide that spring tonic ple arriving in Vancouver. with his comedic one-man show Their search for work and a better life, entitled Tomorrow’s Purple Fat the difficulties of adapting to new cul- Man... an evening of utter mad- tures, loneliness and isolation....and ness and hilarious laughter. eventually feeling at home in a new city. The show is about ‘Finbar Flatley’, an CORK-BORN Michael Patric Based on this inspiration, Patric founded Irish immigrant in Vancouver, and his created the character ‘Finbar Green Maple Productions in Decem- eccentric world. Flatley’, a new Irish immigrant ber 2014 with his Canadian friends Ryan in Vancouver, and he de- Robbins, Tom Stevens, and Jessie Finbar is intolerant of other humans and scribes Finbar’s eccentric Fraser. his challenges are more unusual than most. Stuck in a “shithole apartment,” world in his one-man show. Tomorrow’s Purple Fat Man will be he is unemployed, has no luck with Michael Patric is a Vancouver-based Green Maple’s first production and has women, drinks too much, has a bizarre Irish actor. He has worked in theatre, been written and performed by Michael sleepwalking problem, and is obsessed film, TV, animation and radio. Patric. with hurling. He trained at Dublin’s Gaiety School Michael said, “This one-man comedy He regrets not realizing his dreams, so of Acting after which he worked on that I am doing in March will hopefully he acts them out by turning his living many Irish theatre productions such as appeal to a wide audience but will be room into a packed Croke Park, a con- The Field at the Gaiety Theatre, especially appealing and entertaining for fessional, a television studio, and a po- Shadow of a Gunman at the Lyric the ever increasing Irish community in litical podium. Theatre in Belfast, and The Playboy Vancouver.” of the Western World at the Every- • All of Finbar’s fantasies go awry on one man Palace to name a few. Tomorrow’s Purple Fat Man. will be particular disastrous Sunday afternoon performed at Studio 16, Vancouver, when he plays out a range of dreams Patric has appeared on television shows from March 1 to 5. Tickets on sale and scenarios with a host of crazy char- and films such as The Tudors, The at: brownpapertickets.com or call 1- acters. Running Mate, Supernatural, and 800-838-3006. PAGE 4 www.celtic-connection.com FEBRUARY 2015 If it’s Celtic music you want..... it’s all here this spring

ANCOUVER you can purchase them at Rogue Folk Club events, too. – These are • Forged in the white-hot creative cruci- exciting times ble of Limerick University’s Irish World for lovers of Academy of Music and Dance, Goitse V By have graduated with a musical maturity Celtic music in the Lower STEVE worthy of the greatest. Mainland – and beyond. EDGE They have made a name for themselves as one of the most sought after bands The end of February marks the be- amongst connoisseurs of Irish traditional ginning of acoustic music festival Festival du Bois (February 26 - March music across the globe, with their per- season with Festival du Bois in 1) features La Bal a L’Huile (Que- formances gaining notoriety across four Maillardville, Coquitlam, and a bec’s Yves Lambert & co), PEI’s continents. couple of weeks later, CelticFest Lennie Gallant, and BC fiddler extraordinaire Jocelyn Pettit amongst Having won feverish critical plaudits for Vancouver hits Granville Street others. their Dónal Lunny-produced second with a plethora of concerts and album Transformed, the band has sky- workshops and, of course, the St. There is great Quebecois / French food, rocketed to the forefront of the tradi- ranging from crepes to poutine and Sun- tional Irish music scene. Patrick’s Day Parade on Sunday, day Gospel Brunch, plus workshops, March 15. kids’ activities and much more. They come to western Canada for the www.festivaldubois.ca. first time, hot on the heels of their new But you don’t have to wait that long to CD, Tall Tales & Misadventures. get your Celtic music fix! • CelticFest Vancouver opens on Fri- Their distinctive sound lies in the quality The Celts have certainly left an indel- day, March 6 with Alan Doyle (Great of their own compositions interspersed ible mark on Canada, from coast to Big Sea) at The Vogue. with traditional tunes from Ireland and coast to coast, and The Rogue Folk abroad. Club will be celebrating some of that There are sessions and performances legacy this month. throughout the week, plus a whiskey Laying the foundations for the music are • tasting and many participatory music World and All-Ireland bodhrán cham- Quebec quartet Le Vent Du Nord workshops. pion Colm Phelan and Conal combine trad. tunes from La Belle Prov- The Celtic Village takes over Granville O’Kane, who is fast making a name ince with “crooked” tunes incorporat- Street on March 14 and 15, and there’s for himself as one of the finest guitar- ing Irish and Scottish influences. a Ceilidh on the 14th with The Paper- ists of this generation. They also compose songs in the tradi- boys, and Mark Sullivan & Andy The gripping rhythm section sets a tional style but with a modern twist Hillhouse and co. breathtaking pace for the music while which makes their music appeal to au- Cape Breton’s Kimberley Fraser & the sweet, charismatic voice of Áine diences young and old, French, English, Troy MacGillivray and the amazing McGeeney draws audiences into the and pan-Canadian. fiddling / dancing / singing sprite April music. They are hugely popular in Europe as Verch will also perform at the festival When not singing, Áine’s energetic style well. They play St. James Hall on Fri- this year. Full details on of fiddle playing is complimented by day, February 13. www.celticfestvancouver.com. multi-award-winning banjo and mando- • • lin virtuoso James Harvey. Two days later The Fretless – the band If you’re still looking for more traditional Irish music after that, fear not! His ability to transcend genres, combined voted “Canada’s Instrumental Act of with his unparalleled technical ability is 2014" in the Canadian Folk Music Donegal quintet Altan play North Van- a joy to behold. Bridging the gap between Awards last November – comes to The couver’s Centennial Theatre on Thurs- melody and accompaniment is the piano Rogue. day, March 19 and sensational young and piano accordionist, Tadhg Ó This scintillating string quartet combines Limerick quintet Goitse play St. James Meachair. Hall on Sunday, March 22. trad. tunes from Scotland, Ireland, Cape The Dublin native is renowned for his Breton and Quebec with original com- For over 30 years now, Mairead Ni unique approach to bass work and ac- positions. Mhaonaigh has led Altan with her silky companiment, while also having picked Led by Vancouver Island fiddlers bowing skills and gorgeous vocals. up national awards for his melody play- Ivonne Hernandez and Trent Free- We are delighted to report that Altan ing. man, The Fretless have released two will release The Widening Gyre, their Lace up your dancing shoes and get fine albums to date and put on a superb thirteenth album, on February 24 on ready for a night of wonderful music and show the last time they played here. Compass Records. fast paced fun with Goitse on Sunday, If you love the music of Alasdair It’s an exploration of the musical con- March 22 at St. James Hall in Kitsilano. Fraser and Natalie Haas then you’ll nection between Ireland and Appalachia • definitely love The Fretless too! and was recorded in Nashville, with After I’d submitted my Year’s Best for • guest appearances by Alison Brown, the last issue of The Celtic Connection Lunasa have earned the epithet “Ire- Bruce Molsky, Tim O’Brien, Darol I realised I’d missed mention of the con- land’s #1 Instrumental Band” with 15 Anger, Sam Bush, Jerry Douglas and cert by The Gloaming at The Chan years and nine albums of incredible tra- more! Centre in November. ditional music. Since their last concert in town (1999), What an experience that was! Martin Kevin Crawford (flute,) Sean Smyth which was the last Rogue show, they Hayes & Dennis Cahill wove their (fiddle,) Cillian Vallely (uilleann pipes,) have made just the one line-up change: magic (and you can catch the duo at The Ed Boyd (guitar,) and Trevor Martin Tourish replacing Dermot Rogue on Sunday, May 3, by the way!) Hutchinson (bass) make such richly- Byrne on accordion. Mairead sings and Iarla O’Lionaird sang beautifully. textured, exhilarating music that you most of the songs and doubles up on Caoimhin O’Rhailliagh added barely notice that they don’t sing. fiddle with Ciaran Tourish. hardanger fiddle harmonies to the mix They don’t need to. Daithi Sproule plays guitar and adds and Thomas Barrett played piano with vocals, and Ciaran Curran plays equal parts monastic solemnity and Their instruments are amongst the most youthful exuberance. eloquent to be found on the scene, and bouzouki to add even more drive to the Crawford’s irrepressible humour keeps rhythm section. I hope they come back again soon. the show flowing along very nicely. This is a really great band; do your ears Meanwhile, buy their eponymous album and feet a favour and get your tickets and wallow in this glorious approach to They make a rare visit to these parts on Irish music! Thursday, February 26 at the while you can! BlueShore Financial Centre at They are on sale at the Centennial You can hear a lot of this music on my Capilano University. Theatre Box Office (2300 Lonsdale), radio show, The Edge On Folk, every or by phone at (604) 984-4484 or online Saturday from 8 AM to noon on CiTR Book your tickets at (604) 990-7810 or FM 101.9 and www.citr.ca. www.capilanou.ca/blueshorefinancial on www.centennialtheatre.com, Prussin centre. Music, 3607 West Broadway, (604) • 736-3036 also has tickets available, and [Continued next page] FEBRUARY 2015 www.celtic-connection.com PAGE 5 Upcoming Van Eire Feis VANCOUVER – The Van Eire Tradi- tional Irish Dance Association is a non- profit organization made up of repre- sentatives from local Irish dance schools in Vancouver and the Lower Mainland. The goal is to offer the opportunities of competition to local traditional Irish dancers. Van Eire feis also promotes Irish art and music by offering competi- tive categories in these cultural activi- ties. LUNASA have earned the epithet “Ireland’s #1 Instrumental Band” with 15 years and nine albums of incredible traditional This year’s feis will take place at North Surrey Secondary School, 15945 96 Av- music. They will play the BlueShore Financial Centre at enue, Surrey, BC, on February 28 and Capilano University on Thursday, February 26. March 1, 2015. Registration is now open at www.feisworx.com. [Continued from previous page] Nord on February 13, Fred Eaglesmith on February 27 & 28, Ar- For Rogue Folk Club concert informa- rogant Worms on March 13, look like tion visit www.roguefolk.bc.ca. selling out soon, and Buffy Sainte- Marie at Capilano University on April [N.B. Upcoming shows by Le Vent du 30 is very close to sold out already!] ‘The hottest group in the Celtic realm’ VANCOUVER – Altan – dubbed “the hottest group in the Celtic realm” by the Boston Globe– brings its brilliant musicianship and lively spirit to North Vancouver’s Centennial Theatre, just in time for St. Patrick’s Day week, Thurs- day, March 19 at 8 PM. Hosted by the presenters of CeltFest Vancouver Island, Celtic Performing Arts, in partnership with the Rogue Folk Club, Altan famously masters every aspect of the genre, from stirring old Irish songs to rambunctious jigs and DIRECT from Donegal, Altan reels that won’t leave a still foot in the play N. Vancouver on March 19. house. America, Europe and Japan. This special event, marking CeltFest’s 15th year and its first co-production with In recent years, the group has experi- Rogue Folk, adds guest artists and mented with integrating orchestral ar- CeltFest dancers to the already heady rangements into its most popular pieces. mix. In 2010, Altan celebrated its 25th anni- Hailing from Ireland’s County Donegal, versary with a symphonic best-of al- Altan – whose name means “stream” bum release and a tour of Europe with — has been together for almost 30 the RTE Concert Orchestra. years, and has sold more than a million It’s also worked with such artists as The albums. Chieftains, Dolly Parton, Alison Krauss, Since 1987, Mairéad Ní Mhaonaigh, Enya and Bonnie Raitt. who sings, plays the fiddle and founded Between 1989 and 1999, Altan played the band with her late husband, Frankie Vancouver’s Rogue Folk Club seven Kennedy, has led Altan all over North times, so its return is eagerly anticipated. PAGE 6 www.celtic-connection.com FEBRUARY 2015 CelticFest Vancouver The 3rd Annual Celtic Person / Organization 12 full days of Celtic fun of the Year Award

VANCOUVER – CelticFest and immersive theatrical experience you Elsay, a fiery young folk quartet steeped don’t want to miss. in the Celtic traditions of Scotland, Ire- announced by Vancouver organizers have • land, and Canada open the night. announced the dates and THE BELMONT WHISKY TASTINGS • th CelticFest Vancouver events lined up for the 11 – MARCH 11 PARTICIPATING PUBS Annual CelticFest Vancouver THE BELMONT, 1006 GRANVILLE ST. & RESTAURANTS @ NELSON ST. (BELOW DOOLIN’S) ANCOUVER – CelticFest Van- in 2015. Participating pubs and restaurants: WHISKY 101 – 6:30 PM Doolin’s Irish Pub, The Belmont, and couver has announced that the re- From March 6-17, concert venues, WHISKY FOR CONNOISSEURS – 8:30 PM Mahony & Sons (three locations) will pubs, clubs and city streets will come There’s weeknight fun to be had as offer near non-stop performances by cipient of the third annual Celtic alive with the sights, sounds, and vibrant well, as CelticFest presents The musicians, bands and dancers through- spirit of Celtic culture. Belmont Whisky Tastings on Wednes- out CelticFest, and up to and including V Person / Organization of the Year St. Patrick’s Day itself, Tuesday, March An expanded festival promises 12 day, March 11 at The Belmont (the new name for the refurbished Cellar). 17. Award is Maura De Freitas, publisher of The event-filled days of music, dance, fam- • ily fun, spectacle and discovery for folks It’s a night for both aspiring and vet- FREE SHOWS AND EVENTS Celtic Connection newspaper. of all ages and backgrounds. eran whisky aficionados to come out In addition to an amazing range of Society of B.C. in 1996 to meet the Western Canada’s largest Celtic cel- and taste. The Introduction to Whisky ticketed shows and events, CelticFest 101 at 6:30 PM opens the doors to the 2015 continues its tradition of offering needs of Irish immigrants far from the ebration offers the best of traditional support of home and family. and contemporary Celtic culture in all spirit world for those seeking basic a variety of free events for everyone its diversity, and vitality – and every- knowledge and insights. to enjoy. It was through calls to The Celtic Con- one is invited! Then, at 8:30 PM, true whisky enthusi- On the weekend of March 14-15, the nection that it became evident there was a need to establish a fund to help “We’re looking forward to welcoming asts have an opportunity to learn even Celtic Village fills Granville Street be- more at the “For Connoisseurs” ses- tween Robson and Nelson with music, the local Irish community in emergency people from all around the region to our situations. eleventh festival,” says festival direc- sion. dance, fun and frolic, food – and shop- tor, Nicole Sirockman. • ping, too! Over the years, the Irish Benevolent VANCOUVER WELSH MEN’S CHOIR This free weekend-long street fair fea- Society of B.C. has responded to help “Festival programmer, Tom Landa, a – MARCH 13 AT 7:30 PM tures music from some of the hottest numerous local families and individuals. leading figure on the Celtic and music WITH SPECIAL GUESTS Celtic music groups around on Doolin’s So often when disaster strikes it is with- scene who has led The Paperboys to DE DANAAN IRISH DANCERS Stage on Granville Street. out warning and in situations where help international fame, is hard at work in CHRIST CHURCH CATHEDRAL, has been needed, the Irish Benevolent his new job at CelticFest with some 690 BURRARD STREET Folks can hear fiery folk quartet, Elsay, Society of B.C. has been there. great plans for 2015.” The Festival presents the glorious 100- ballads from Victoria’s Knacker’s Yard, voice Vancouver Welsh Men’s Choir in The benevolent fund has received sup- For full information and to purchase tick- the traditional Irish sounds of Crikey concert, with De Danaan Irish Danc- port from numerous local organizations, ets for all events, visit: Mor, Cape Breton’s Troy MacGillivray ers opening. and Kimberly Fraser, West Coast Fid- MAURA DE FREITAS, publisher including the Irish Women’s Network www.celticfestvancouver.com. of B.C., the Vancouver Irish Sporting • Steeped in the rich Welsh vocal tradi- dlers, Sarah Anne Chisholm, and the of The Celtic Connection. Jocelyn Pettit Band. and Social Club, the Irish Heritage So- TICKETED EVENTS tion, the Vancouver Welsh Men’s Choir ciety of Canada, the Western Canada The festival’s schedule of ticketed present a repertoire of folk songs, Look for the captivating antics of street The award will be presented at the Division of the Gaelic Athletic Associa- events is a ‘must-see’ list of music, spirituals, show tunes and Canadiana in performers: The Green Man can be concert at the Christ Church Ca- tion, An Irish Christmas Celebration, tastings, and other great entertainment. the stellar acoustics of Christ Church found delighting passersby in the Vil- thedral on Friday, March 13 at Blake Williams and The Jericho Sailing Cathedral. lage. ALAN DOYLE – MARCH 6 AT 8 PM 7:30 PM. The evening’s musical Club, and the Society of St. Vincent de VOGUE THEATRE, 918 GRANVILLE STREET Founded in 1981, the choir is now in its Academie Duello will be back to show- lineup features Vancouver Welsh Paul, along with generous individuals The festival kicks off with a bang, as tenth season under the dynamic lead- case their amazing brand of sword fight- Men’s Choir with special guests, and businesses. Live Nation and CelticFest Vancouver ership of music director and well-known ing and look out for the Society for De Danaan Irish Dancers. For over six years the Irish Benevolent present Alan Doyle in concert. soloist Jonathan Quick, assisted by ac- Creative Anachronism in their medieval Society of B.C. has also hosted Irish companist David Buchan. costumes playing musical instruments, The Celtic Person / Organization of the seniors’ luncheons through the support Best-known as the lead singer for New- • Year award recognizes outstanding con- foundland’s beloved Great Big Sea, singing, spinning, or playing ancient of the Irish Emigrant Support Program CELTICFEST CEILIDH tributions made to the local Celtic com- Doyle released his second solo album, board games. with the Department of Foreign Affairs – MARCH 14 AT 8 PM munity and the community at large by So Let’s Go, on January 20 and will rock of the Government of Ireland. The so- THE IMPERIAL, 319 MAIN STREET Village visitors can shop at the Celtic both groups and individuals of Celtic the Vogue as part of his multi-date ciety continues to work with the com- The CelticFest Ceilidh returns by popu- Market for a vast array of Celtic treas- heritage. North American tour. ures and the works of gifted artisans, munity to provide support to those in lar demand on Saturday night, March need. • 14. and sample from a wide selection of It was almost 25 years ago when Maura A TRIBUTE TO THE POGUES food and fare. De Freitas, founding publisher and edi- De Freitas said, “it is very gratifying to – MARCH 7 AT 9 PM Welcome to the beating heart of the tor of The Celtic Connection, launched Friends and families can gather and see The Celtic Connection reach its THE IMPERIAL, 319 MAIN STREET festival – a reeling, rollicking good time the newspaper along with her mother wander, soaking in that special Celtic current level of maturity as we approach A Tribute to the Pogues is a celebra- and a lineup of Celtic gold. Catholine Butler in 1991 (recipient of a quarter century. tion of this iconic band’s music. Shane feeling all weekend long. The evening includes performances by the inaugural Award in 2013). MacGowan and The Pogues have had “In the early days we struggled pas- the fabulous The Paperboys, Mark Throughout the March 14-15 weekend, a massive impact on the music scene The vision was a vehicle to connect sionately to ensure its survival. Through- Sullivan and Andy Hillhouse, and Fásta. Tom Lee Music Hall on Granville Street people of Celtic origins across western for 30 years. hosts a series of fascinating (and, again, out the years, The Celtic Connection This rollicking, kick-up-your-heels night Canada and the U.S. Pacific North- has served the needs of the community Their songs have been covered by hun- of music and dance sells out every year. free) CelticFest Performances and west. Workshops. and we have shared both their tears and dreds of artists worldwide, and this • their joy. We envision many more years evening the tradition continues, with DELHI 2 DUBLIN – MARCH 15 AT 8 PM At the time there was no communica- Performances include: Royal Scottish tion between so many various groups of service and look forward to more some of Vancouver’s finest musicians WITH SPECIAL GUESTS TROY Country Dance Society’s Demonstra- adventures in publishing.” performing many of this revered band’s MACGILLIVRAY & KIMBERLY FRASER who shared common roots and history, tion Team, O’Connor-O’Brien School but who operated in isolation with no • best-known songs. THE IMPERIAL, 319 MAIN STREET of Irish Dance, Dylan Thomas 100 Tickets for the Friday, March 13, 11th Delhi 2 Dublin was formed on the stage cross-cultural connections. Featuring: C.R. Avery, Dustin Bentall, (1914-2014). Anniversary Concert at the Christ at CelticFest in 2006, and returns to Maura’s dream was to bring these MC: Aaron Chapman (The Town Workshops Include: Kalissa Landa Fid- Church Cathedral are $27/$24 (ad- deliver their electrifying brand of Celtic groups together through the pages of a vance), $31/$28 (door), and avail- Pants), Pat Chessell, Babe Gurr, and world rhythms at The Imperial on dle Workshop and Fiachra O’Regan Rockland Moran, Natalye Vivian (Whis- monthly newspaper which they called able at www.celticfestvancouver.com. Sunday night. Cape Breton’s Troy Uilleann Pipes and Whistle Workshop. The Celtic Connection. key Jane), Shane’s Teeth, Vagabonds, MacGillivray and Kimberly Fraser • and The Whiskeydicks. open. ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE Since then, The Celtic Connection has • • CelticFest’s jewel, and most popular become the voice of the Celts with news Volunteers needed THE WEIR th and information covering the Irish, the APRIL VERCH – MARCH 16 AT 8 PM event, the 11 annual St. Patrick’s Day for St. Patrick’s Parade – MARCH 7, 8, 11, 12, 14, 15 Scots, the Welsh and the English com- WITH SPECIAL GUESTS ELSAY Parade animates downtown Vancouver VANCOUVER – The Celtic Con- FOR TIMES AND LOCATIONS ND munities with over 35,000 readers across ANNEX, 825 SEYMOUR STREET, 2 FLOOR on Sunday March 15, starting at 11 AM. nection needs volunteers to help SEE WEBSITE Canada and the United States. On St. Patrick’s Day eve, Monday, The parade route flows along Howe to distribute newspapers all along the Standing Room Only Theatre presents March 16, brilliant songstress April the Canadian west coast premiere of Georgia Street, drawing thousands of The newspaper has evolved along with St. Patrick’s Day Parade route in Verch takes the stage at the Annex spectators, many decked out in their a changing technology with the launch downtown Vancouver on Sunday, Conor McPherson’s award-winning (Orpheum). Irish play The Weir in two fully func- own take on the tradition, to cheer on a of a new website last year and a grow- March 15. Please be advised that tioning Celtic pubs (Billy Bishop Legion This internationally touring Canadian couple thousand lively parade partici- ing following on social media on The there is a lot of walking involved on Laburnam Street and at 670 Smithe fiddler, step dancer and singer-songwrit- pants: marching pipe and drum bands, Celtic Connection Facebook page. and comfortable walking shoes are Street – the former Ceili’s Downtown) er’s star continues to rise, as her repu- Celtic music groups, acrobats, drill suggested. For more details call In addition to the newspaper, Maura Catholine Butler at (604) 434-3747 as well as one performance at the Elks tation as a gifted interpreter of tradi- teams, Irish and Scottish youth dance also established the Irish Benevolent Lodge, promising an immediate, unique tional music continues to grow. groups, and more. or e-mail: [email protected]. FEBRUARY 2015 www.celtic-connection.com PAGE 7 Festival du Bois: Celtic Flavours with a French-Canadian Flair COQUITLAM – Festival du completes an eight-foot wood sculpture Bois returns for its 26th year, over the weekend, destined to become a permanent feature in Mackin Park. with music, family entertainment and activities, food and more Adult admission is only $12 / day on Saturday, February 28 and Sunday, February 26 to March 1. March 1, with discounts for students and Mark your calendars for the weekend seniors – with family and weekend that bridges February and March, and passes available, as well. Children un- plan to head out to Coquitlam’s Mackin der five get in free. Park for some great music, delicious Leading up to the main festival week- poutine and tortiere, and a lot of fun. end, there are other special events Musicians from across Canada and planned, too. from right here at home drive the ex- On February 17, Dîner en Plaid is an citement in the Grand Chapiteau (Big evening of traditional French Canadian Tent) and other heated tents across the LENNIE GALLANT from PEI is food, craft beer (the specially-brewed site. There’s lots to see, hear, and do at a Canadian singer-songwriter French Lumberjack Ale from Port this unique, friendly, and affordable fes- whose music crosses into folk, Moody’s Yellow Dog Brewing), and tival with a Francophone flair. Celtic, rock and country musicé music from Alouest. The dress code? This year’s musical lineup offers an in- Plaid! credible range of styles and talent. From party music faithful to Québec vocal Artist Leanne Christie’s “Theatre of the East Coast, Lennie Gallant is one traditions. Public LIfe” exhibit opens at Place des of Canada’s finest singer/songwriters, Arts in Coquitlam on February 19. with one of the most resonant and Joining them on the festival’s stages are evocative voices around. the popular Charlotte Diamond, Rising Manitoban singer-songwriter Locarno, Tanga, Jocelyn Pettit and Genevieve Toupin opens the festival Three amazing groups from Québec her band, Alouest, Will Stroet, Abo- on Thursday, February 26, and the Fu- visit: Les Chercheurs d’Or play an riginal Peoples’ Choice award-winner sion Gospel Choir performs in a ben- eclectic, foot-stomping folk-country; Wesley Hardisty’s unique blend of efit concert with Les Échos du Lanaudière’s Bardefou perform folk, Celtic and Métis music – and so Pacifique on-site Friday night, Febru- goodtime music inspired by France, much more. ary 27. Scotland, and Ireland; and, back by popular demand, Le Bal à l’huile’s all- Be sure to check out Longueuil region For full festival information and tickets, male voices deliver harmonic kitchen- wood carver, Michel Campeau, as he go to www.festivaldubois.ca. The Weir: Award-winning play set in an Irish pub VANCOUVER-based com- pany Standing Room Only Theatre are producing Conor McPherson’s award winning play The Weir, set in a pub in rural Ireland, in three site- specific venues from March 7-15. The locations include the charming Billy Bishop’s Legion (March 7, 8, and 14) and the eclectic Roadhouse Pub (March 11 and 12). They will both host the show THE WEIR by Irish writer and director Conor McPherson first as part of the Vancouver CelticFest opened in London in 1997. Next month Standing Room Only 2015. Theatre in Vancouver will present the play in three separate Another one-off performance is venues from March 7-15. planned at the intimate Elks Lodge #431 (March 15) as part of the White Rock and scary stories over a few bever- Nathan Kelly (Jim) and Keara Barnes Irish Festival 2015. ages?” (Valerie). Standing Room Only Theatre, who have The three venues, all intimate in nature Standing Room Only want this inaugu- the distinct honor of presenting the in- and each charmingly unique, presents ral show to be one that audiences re- augural theatre production, are serving a rare challenge to the performers but ally remember and to do that they in- up this Irish play with a difference…and it will be an exciting and intimate expe- vite them all, as the poster itself says; a few rounds of drinks. rience. Sit Back, Sip a drink, Be immersed. “It’s expected of a play to watch it from The talented cast consists of Eric Tickets are $17. To learn more and to a distance and observe,” says director O’Connor (Jack), Spenser Dunlop purchase tickets, visit Tracy-Lynn Chernaske, “but this can (Brendan), Michael Stewart (Finbar), www.standingroomonlytheatre.org. often make an audience feel discon- nected. We wanted to flip expectation on its head and have the action happen Anne Enright announced in and around the spectators.” as Ireland’s first fiction laureate Standing Room Only enthusiastically invite the audience to have their drinks DUBLIN – Ireland has long been known, and envied, for its public subsidy at the ready as they watch. of the arts, literature in particular. Assistant director Joe Hinks says that Numerous countries have their poet laureate. But a fiction laureate? The the show is aimed at attracting a wide Arts Council of Ireland set a brave precedent last year when it invited nomi- range of audience members, not just nations for the first ever post of this kind. those who regularly attend the theatre. The 119 nominations were made from bookshops, libraries, arts organisa- “We’re trying to create a real pub ex- tions, book clubs and individual writers, with a total of 34 potential candi- perience here…we even have live dates. Celtic music after the show! The decision to select Anne Enright was unanimous. “We want everyone to be able to relate As chair, Paul Muldoon, put it, Anne Enright’s fiction has helped the Irish to and enjoy the show, and what’s more make sense of their lives for the past quarter century – and helped the rest relatable than adults sharing life, love of the world understand Ireland. PAGE 8 www.celtic-connection.com FEBRUARY 2015 St. Dwynwen celebrated 150th anniversary of at the Cambrian Hall first Welsh settlement ANCOUVER – In what has become a tradition in recent years, the Vancouver in Patagonia Welsh Society celebrated St. V Dwynwen’s Day on Saturday evening, January 24 at the Cambrian Hall. The an- nual St. Dwynwen’s Day is actually celebrated on By January 25. EIFION Today, St. Dwynwen is regarded WILLIAMS in Wales as the patron saint of DAVID LLEWELYN Williams friendship and love, rivalling the presented a short video on popularity of St. Valentine. Llanddwyn Island and gave a fascinating account of the life Welsh schoolchildren are encouraged of St. Dwynwen. to celebrate the saint’s day and St. Dwynwen’s Day cards are popular. Welsh Society president David Llewelyn A PROMINENT feature of the Chubut settlement was the number Williams organized and presided over of chapels built throughout the valley to reflect the settlers’ tra- the event, presenting a varied and en- ditional commitment to their nonconformist religion. joyable evening’s entertainment with individual contributions and much audi- ence participation. the history of the colony, including an By EIFION WILLIAMS annual Festival of the Landing (Gwyl y Audience members also enjoyed des- Glaniad) was generally celebrated. serts and fresh fruit platters prepared by the society’s social committee. his summer the The success of the Welsh colony and subsequent economic growth inevitably St. Dwynwen was a beautiful Celtic Welsh commu- attracted more immigrants from Europe princess who exiled herself to nity in the and other parts of Argentina. Llanddwyn Island off the Anglesey T However, the Welsh community man- coast after being thwarted in a passion- Chubut Valley ate love affair. aged to survive through the co- of Patagonia will celebrate ordinated efforts of the Argentine Gov- At Llanddwyn Island she established a A VIEW over Llanddwyn Island SHARON MCINTY-BIRRELL the 150th anniversary of ernment and the Welsh Assembly to church and nunnery where she was off the Anglesey coast, popu- entertained with several love promote its distinctly Welsh heritage. joined by other heartbroken young lov- lar with lovers. songs at the St. Dwynwen’s the arrival of the sailing ers. Day celebration. There are still strong links between ship Mimosa from Liver- Wales and the Welsh of Patagonia and Over the centuries, the ruins of a chapel a number of groups from Wales are plan- built later on the site and a nearby well pool. The little ship car- ning to attend the 150th anniversary of have become a mecca for young lov- ried 153 Welsh settlers. The Landing throughout this year. ers seeking assurance of their everlast- ing love. The Welsh migrants sought to es- In recent years several Vancouver Welsh Society members have also vis- The stark beauty of Llanddwyn Island tablish a Welsh colony in ited Y Wladfa, as it is known in Welsh. was shown in a short video presented Patagonia where they could pre- by David Llewelyn Williams, who also serve the language and culture of One Welsh Society member with a spe- gave a fascinating account of the events their native land. cial interest in Patagonia is Victor in Dwynwen’s life. Griffiths, who grew up in the Chubut The migrants landed near what is to- Valley community of Gaiman. David followed this by distributing a St. day Puerto Madryn, where they found He is descended from Welsh settlers Dwynwen’s Day card to each member a harsh and inhospitable environment. of the audience. who arrived in Patagonia from Wales Shortly thereafter, they moved to the in the 1870s. The love theme continued throughout more hospitable Chubut river valley Both his parents spoke Welsh. Victor the evening as Beti Darvel-Jones gave where they settled and proceeded to a spirited and funny recitation of Old now lives in Port Moody with his Bue- build agricultural communities that even- nos Aires-born wife Liliana and their Tyme Dancing, originally popularized tually prospered. by English comedy actress Joyce two children. Grenfell. Over the years, more immigrants ar- Victor inherited some written records ARIZONA ENTERTAINER John Good will be the guest performer rived from Wales as did some Welsh- and artifacts from his ancestors, some There was also a limerick competition at this year’s St. David’s dinner at the Cambrian Hall. Americans from the United States. on a love theme and a table quiz on fa- of which give a vivid account of the dif- mous movies with the same theme. cago Celtic Fest, Sea Shanty Festival strengthen a fledgling Welsh and Celtic The settlers built a railway between the ficulties encountered by the early Welsh in San Diego and the Denver Highland cultural presence in North America by cities of Trelew and Puerto Madryn. settlers. Popular entertainer Sharon McInty- Games. creating regional focal points, where They also built a major irrigation sys- His great-uncle David Morgan Day, for Birrell contributed several well-known American and Welsh/Celtic-born peo- tem which greatly improved the culti- love songs during the evening, while the Good was born into a Welsh-speaking example, wrote a detailed description ple with an interest in their heritage, vation of crops such as wheat, thus of the Welsh colony’s first 50 years. audience also sang a selection of Welsh family in Cwmafan, South Wales and culture and language would come to greatly contributing to the success of folk songs. immigrated to the United States in 1975, reconnect with their own living history.” the colony. “Every farm and every district could tell living and performing in Los Angeles its own story, its own difficulties and its The Vancouver Welsh Society is now and San Francisco before moving to Further information on the St. David’s The Welsh settlers gradually expanded preparing for the St. David’s Day Din- successes, especially during the first 50 Phoenix in 1989. Day dinner will appear later on the westwards to the foothills of the Andes years,” wrote Day. ner on March 1. Welsh Society’s website at: and several new communities with Good states that his goal is “to Entertainment at this year’s dinner will www.welshsociety.com. Welsh names such as Gaiman, Trelew In his account he details the many prob- be provided by the Welsh folk trio and Dolavon grew along the Chubut. lems faced by the Welsh settlers and their descendents, as well as their many Tramor, led by John Good, president of Your Subscription is Important A prominent feature of the Chubut set- the Arizona Welsh society. achievements, which ultimately contrib- Don’t Delay, Call Today! tlement was the number of chapels built uted to the Chubut Valley being trans- The trio wowed audiences at last sum- throughout the valley to reflect the set- formed into one of the most fertile, pro- Have you considered subscribing to The Celtic Connection? If you enjoy tlers’ traditional commitment to their mer’s North American Festival of reading this award-winning newspaper and haven’t taken out a ductive areas in Argentina. Wales in Minneapolis. nonconformist religion. subscription yet – what are you waiting for? Call today! For your Since the voyage of the Mimosa, the John Good is well known throughout the convenience, you can pay by either VISA, MasterCard or by cheque. The chapels became the focal centres story of the Welsh settlement in United States and in his native Wales of Welsh culture in the valley, continu- Patagonia has touched a chord among The Celtic Connection covers the news across the spectrum of Ireland, ing to foster traditional Welsh institu- as a talented Welsh piper, singer/song- England, Scotland and Wales. Your subscription is very important to Welsh people everywhere. writer, storyteller, composer and poet. tions such as the eisteddfod and support this valuable community resource. To subscribe, mail your cheque gymanfa ganu. Welsh migrants contributed much to the He has performed at several Celtic fes- to: The Celtic Connection, #452, 4111 Hastings Street, Burnaby, B.C. growth of Patagonia and became Ar- tivals and concerts, including the Chi- V5C 6T7. To pay by VISA or MasterCard, call (604) 434-3747. It was also primarily in the chapels that gentine without losing their Welsh roots. FEBRUARY 2015 www.celtic-connection.com PAGE 9 Canada’s first prime minister honoured with Sir John A’s Great Canadian Kilt Skate OTTAWA – Scottish pride and Ca- Saskatoon’s kilt skate was held as a part nadian patriotism came together of the city’s annual PotashCorp across Canada on Saturday, Janu- WinterShines festival. ary 31. In Calgary, the kilt skate was organ- ized by the Optimist Club at the Calgary To celebrate the bicentennial birthday Olympic Plaza where participants en- of Sir John A. Macdonald, Canada’s joyed free hot chocolate, Scottish en- first prime minister, hearty Canadians tertainment and signed a John A. in five cities across the country donned Macdonald birthday card. kilts – and headed outdoors. The Great Canadian Kilt Skate launched Sir John A’s Great Canadian Kilt Skate a year-long celebration of the 200th was originally the idea of the Scottish Anniversary of the birth of Sir John A. Society of Ottawa but this year kilt skates were also held in Montreal, Win- Macdonald was born on January 11, nipeg, Saskatoon and Calgary, as well 1815, in Glasgow (Scotland), and died as Ottawa. on June 6, 1891, in Ottawa, Ontario. “Some of us have been marking Sir John The St. Andrew’s Society of Montreal He came to Canada with his family as A’s birthday for years by getting out on hosted the kilt skate in that city at the a boy and became Canada’s first prime the Rideau Canal Skateway in our kilts,” Vieux Port de Montreal. minister (Conservative Party of says Don Cummer of the Scottish So- Winnipegers held their kilt skate at The Canada). ciety of Ottawa. Forks, the frozen junction of the Red Macdonald was the leading figure in the “For the bicentennial, we wanted to turn and Assiniboine rivers where the wind discussions and conferences, which re- this into a bigger, public event. The next chill made it feel like -36 C. sulted in the British North America Act thing we knew, other cities wanted to John Perrin, president of the Scottish and the birth of Canada as a nation on join in.” Heritage Council of Manitoba, said, July 1, 1867. In Ottawa, the kilt skate was held in “We’re making a statement about how Key achievements of his political ca- partnership with Winterlude, and took hearty we are as Canadians and we’re reer include the creation of the Cana- place on the Rideau Canal Skateway saluting our Scottish heritage. And of dian Pacific Railway from 1871 to 1885 with a concert of Scottish music at Con- course, it’s one of the coldest days of and the creation of the Northwest federation Park. the winter.” Mounted Police in 1873. PAGE 10 www.celtic-connection.com FEBRUARY 2015 A POSTCARD FROM LONDON ‘Personally I’d like to vote for Angela Merkel Blwyddyn Newydd Dda. of parliament, the price for selling their Athbhliain faoi Mhaise soul to the devil by being part of the Daoibh. coalition government. Bliadhna Mhath The battle lines between the Conserva- Ur. Happy New Year tives and Labour seem to be that the LONDON – If you are sitting Conservatives are telling us that their comfortably, then I shall be- By economic policies are working, and ELFAN Labour counter by arguing that only the gin with the weather. It is wealthy are benefitting. JONES cold here. This sounds familiar. Back in the 1960s THE BROTHER of murdered aid worker David Haines said he the then-Tory Prime Minister Harold is haunted by the look on his face in video released by Islamic Some friends from Niagra-on- Macmillan made a speech declaring that State (IS) militants. the-Lake came to stay with us last “you have never had it so good.” The week. When I enquired as to why retort from Labour, “I don’t know, I’ve they were wandering around in never had it.” Hostage’s brother their underwear, they mentioned Personally, I would like to vote for that perhaps the central heating Angela Merkel. was turned up a tad on the high I have no idea what her policies are, ‘haunted’ by face side. but she seems to know what she’s do- I commented that the outside tempera- ing. PERTH, Scotland – The brother of In the deep, dark nights when I am not sleeping, I see that look on his face.” ture had fallen to three degrees. Ap- She has been Chancellor of Germany murdered aid worker David Haines parently in the Toronto area the tem- for 10 years, so must be doing some- said he is haunted by the look on The recording was released two weeks perature had fallen to something that thing right and she is marginally more his face in a video released by Is- after a clip appeared online showing the only penguins would enjoy and three attractive than our lot. lamic State (IS) militants. beheading of another American journal- degrees was warm enough to wear • ist, James Foley. shorts and a tee shirt. On the home front, the good people who Haines was beheaded last September after being taken hostage in Syria in A video showing David’s death was Whilst on the subject of clothing, Harris live in the county of Essex take a bat- broadcast on social media 10 days af- tering from comedians in the UK. March 2013 while working for interna- Tweed Hebrides, Johnnie Walker, and tional relief agency Acted. ter the Sotloff video. textile experts in Heriot – Watt Uni- The “Essex” jokes normally concern the versity Edinburgh have collaborated to The 44-year-old father-of-two had been Haines said his brother and his family sexual antics of the young female popu- did not believe in paying ransoms. produce a range of Harris Tweed im- ANGELA MERKEL has been lation or the general standard of edu- been helping refugees in a camp near bued with the aroma of Johnnie Walker Chancellor of Germany for 10 cation there. the Turkish border when he was “I have revisited every decision that Black Label whiskey. years. snatched by militants. was made and I would not change a This week Super Pizza, a take away The scent features “rich malt and dark Mike Haines said the family had to keep single one because those decisions were less than a hundred lying days to go to pizza company in Southend-on-Sea, made for the right reasons in the right chocolate tones with golden vanilla” Essex, has not helped their cause. his brother’s kidnap secret for 18 designed by Angelos Bratis. the election. months, which they found very difficult. way and that, no matter what we did, David’s fate was sealed,” he said. Despite, or perhaps because of the The company has sent out thousands The fabric is grey with blue, pink and of leaflets offering their customers a His brother’s name emerged in the pub- yellow highlights and has been media coverage, an enormous cloud of lic domain early in September after he Born in Yorkshire, David Haines was apathy covers the country. new, delicious topping featuring Baked brought up in the Perth area and at- launched in Berlin to be marketed in Aborigine as a vegetarian option. was shown at the end of a video of jour- Germany, Greece and Belgium. nalist Steven Sotloff’s murder. tended the local academy before serv- As rival politicians do their utmost to ing 12 years as an aircraft engineer with protect their expense accounts, most of The flyer claimed that the 19-inch pizza Donald Mackay, head of the finishing at £10.99 was the best offer in town. In an interview broadcast on BBC Ra- the RAF. department at the Harris Tweed on the the opinion polls suggest that the result dio Scotland, Haines said he is haunted Isle of Lewis, said, “I have worked is impossible to predict. To the relief of the Aboriginal popula- by the look on his brother’s face. He later took up humanitarian work and with aromas in the past, but they were tion of Essex this was a mistake as the assisted aid agencies in some of the The Conservative party is being hit by He told the BBC, “That day when world’s worst trouble spots. only meant to withstand one dry clean. the popularity of UKIP and the Labour menu should have read “Baked Auber- gine” (eggplant). David appeared in the background, that “The process we have devised for party could be badly affected in Scot- day when we realised that David had Mike Haines wants his brother to be Johnnie Walker means that this scent land by the continuing rise of support New flyers have been issued and the been identified, my stomach hit the remembered for how he lived rather is layered into the fabric throughout the for the Scottish Nationalist Party. company did not wish to comment. floor. than how he died. finishing process and is permanently All for now. It would appear that the Liberal Demo- “The image on David’s face when he He said, “His love for his daughters. imbued in the fabric.” crats could lose most of their members Kindest regards, His belief in community. His belief in Elfan. was witnessing Steven’s murder – it I don’t see this catching on in the UK. wasn’t horror at what was approach- humanity. ing him, it was horror at what was hap- “There is no nobler role in life than help- Picture a patriotic Scotsman buying a pening to Steven. suit made from this tweed to support ing your fellow man when he is down the industry. “The look – no matter where you go, no matter what creed, religion, colour 109-year-old Scottish no matter how much you try and not – David did that. So the work that he He goes home to his wife to be ac- see that image – is with me all the time. did, it stands for him.” cused of spending all day in the pub. I can hear the words already: “You woman reveals her can’t fool me, you positively reek of booze. What has the doctor told you Service marks end about cutting back?” secret to a long life th “No honestly love, it’s a special fab- ABERDEEN – Celebrating her 109 of Afghan combat mission ric designed to smell of whiskey.” birthday, Jessie Gallan, who is the old- est woman in Scotland, stunned care LONDON – A service of commemo- Announcing the plans to MPs in the “Yeah pull the other one.” workers when they asked for tips on ration will be held at St. Paul’s Cathe- House of Commons, Prime Minister If it does catch on then Savile Row how to live to a ripe old age. dral in the presence of the Prince of David Cameron said, “I believe it’s a tailors would have a whole new world Jessie has never married and was born Wales and Duchess of Cornwall on fitting moment to pay tribute to the ex- to explore. in a tiny two-room farm cottage in March 13 to mark the end of the com- traordinary contribution made by our Aberdeenshire and left home at 13 to bat mission in Afghanistan. Armed Forces in Afghanistan over 13 “What can we offer you today sir, a years.” nice pinstripe blended with a gin and become a milkmaid. The service will be followed by a mili- tonic, or what about a bold Irish tweed, She puts her old age down to avoiding tary parade of personnel who served in Following the announcement, Defence carefully drenched with 15 pints of men and also a daily helping of porridge Afghanistan to pay tribute to those killed Secretary Michael Fallon said, “This is Guinness. each morning. and injured during the 13 year cam- our opportunity to show the enormous paign. gratitude we owe to all those who “Not your tipple sir? Then smell this The spinster, who now lives in a care served in Afghanistan, and to salute the one sir, a Prince of Wales check, ooz- home in Aberdeen, said, “My secret to Alongside senior politicians and military many acts of courage and sacrifice ing of a mature cask finished, fine a long life has been staying away from top brass, invitations will go to veter- made by the thousands of men and JESSIE GALLAN attributes her ans of the conflict, close relatives of Remy Martin champagne Cognac.” men. They’re just more trouble than longevity to lots of porridge women involved in the campaign. they’re worth.” troops who lost their lives, representa- Even more interesting could be cloth and staying away from men. tives of all regular and reserve armed “We owe a special debt to those who smelling of ladies perfume. That could Jessie became Scotland’s oldest woman forces units which served in Afghani- didn’t return and I hope that their fam- cause some problems. following the death of Clare Dawson, stan and representatives of other na- ily members are able to join us at the • of Glasgow, in June 2013 at the age of The oldest living person in the UK is tions which took part in the NATO-led service.” The political scene is hotting up with 109. Ethel Lang, 114, from Barnsley. International Security Assistance Force. FEBRUARY 2015 www.celtic-connection.com PAGE 11 Homage paid to Churchill 50 years after he was laid to rest LONDON – Winston Church- terpart Baroness d’Souza and Tory MP Sir Nicholas Soames – Churchill’s ill was remembered as “a grandson – after a service in Parlia- great leader and a great ment’s St. Mary’s Undercroft chapel. Briton” at events on January Among family members taking part in 29 to mark 50 years since the the commemorations was Randolph former prime minister’s State Churchill, who said his great-grandfa- ther would have been “surprised but funeral. thrilled” as he put flowers at another Seventy-five years since his “finest statue, in Parliament Square. hour” in leading the fight against fas- Crowds later gathered at London’s cism in the Second World War, his de- THE HAVENGORE, the same Tower Bridge to watch a flotilla – in- scendants travelled the Thames on the boat that carried Winston cluding Havengore, the vessel that car- boat that carried the great statesman’s Churchill’s coffin in 1965, ried the coffin following Churchill’s state coffin in 1965. passes London’s Tower Bridge funeral at St. Paul’s Cathedral – recre- The three main party leaders – none of as large crowds gather to re- ate his final journey. whom were born when the nation turned member Winston Churchill and Sir Nicholas, who walked behind the gun out in vast numbers to mourn Church- watch a flotilla recreate his fi- carriage bearing his grandfather’s cof- ill’s death – laid wreaths at his Com- nal journey. fin, said that the events of 50 years ago mons statue. were “awe-inspiring.” Prime Minister David Cameron said affection by the country as a states- man, bon viveur and reformer, Cameron “The streets were 30 or 40 deep, full of Britain must draw on the same “cour- people, wherever you looked. What was THE 1965 funeral of Sir Winston Churchill was the largest state age and resolve” inspired by Churchill said, but most of all as a patriot – with funeral in the world up to that point in time. It was attended by lessons to teach the modern world. so extraordinary was to see the faces to battle the affronts to freedom faced of people literally contorted with grief dignitaries from 112 countries. In Europe 350 million people, today. Wreaths were also laid by Commons as the coffin went by, many people with including 25 million in Britain, watched the funeral on televi- Churchill was still remembered with Speaker John Bercow, his Lords coun- tears pouring down their faces.” sion, and only Ireland did not broadcast it live. Bank of England Governor warns EU of ‘another lost decade’ DUBLIN – German austerity and the failure of wealthy states to help poorer countries risk trapping the eurozone in another decade of economic turmoil the Governor of the Bank of England has warned. Mark Carney was delivering a lecture in Dublin on international economic trends at the Department of Foreign Affairs, attended by Governor of the Central Bank, Patrick Honohan. Speaking at Iveagh House to honour the memory of Canadian Finance Minister Jim Flaherty, Carney said, “It will take the euro area eight years to achieve the recovery that Canada secured in two.” Flaherty “would be more than a little MARK CARNEY [second from left], Governor of the Bank of frustrated with the euro area,” Carney England, is welcomed to Iveagh House in Dublin (L-R) by Ca- said. The politician “remained uncon- nadian Ambassador to Ireland Kevin Vickers, Irish Minister vinced that Europe had fixed its prob- for Foreign Affairs and Trade Charlie Flanagan, and British lems” to his last days, he added. Ambassador to Ireland Dominick Chilcott. The governor said that the eurozone’s trap where low growth deepens the He said, “There are few clearer illus- poor performance mattered for the UK, burden of debt, prompting the private trations of the benefits of sound fiscal as the currency bloc remains the coun- sector to cut spending further. arrangements in a currency union.” try’s largest trading partner. “Persistent economic weakness dam- Carney recently told MPs that the In order “to avoid another lost decade” ages the extent to which economies can plunge in oil prices represented a “nega- he recommended that policymakers recover. Skills and capital atrophy. tive shock” to the Scottish economy. push for greater integration, and sug- Workers become discouraged and leave gested that fiscal policy should be the labour force. Prospects decline and But he said, “Because this risk is shared across the entire UK (which on the looser. the noose tightens. whole is a net beneficiary of lower oil Carney’s remarks come days after “As difficult as it has been, some coun- prices), the net impact on the Scottish Greece elected the radical Syriza party tries, including the U.S. and the UK, public finances is a mere one tenth of into power on a platform of ending the are now escaping this trap. Others in what it would been if there had been austerity policies imposed on it as part the euro area are sinking deeper.” no risk-sharing.” of the debt-laden country’s bail-out – a result that threatens to destabilise the Carney said the quantitative easing Carney said the plan to revive the Eu- currency union. package announced by the European ropean economy “begins but does not Central Bank had shown “monetary end with the monetary policy boldness It also follows the announcement of a boldness.” of the ECB.” 1.1 trillion euro (£820 billion) asset pur- chase scheme to try to lift flatlining But he said, “The currency union has He added, “That plan includes difficult growth and pull the zone out of nega- been relatively timid in putting in place structural reforms, but cannot be wholly tive inflation – which threatens a dam- the other policies and, crucially, the in- reliant on them. That plan requires aging spiral of falling prices. stitutions necessary to deliver sustain- greater private risk-sharing via bank- able prosperity for its citizens.” ing and capital markets unions. Some of his remarks, in a speech enti- tled ‘Fortune Favours the Bold,’ are He said, “Europe needs a comprehen- “But that plan also needs to recognise likely to be seen as critical of the aus- sive, coherent plan to anchor expecta- that private risk-sharing will never fully terity policies in Europe being pushed tions, build confidence and escape its replace public risk-sharing so that plan by Germany. debt trap.” should include what every other suc- cessful currency union has at its heart: He said they risked driving the single Carney gave the example of how Scot- mechanisms to share fiscal sovereignty. currency area deeper into a debt trap. land’s North Sea dependent economy had been cushioned from the blow of “Europe’s leaders do not currently fore- “Since the financial crisis all major ad- plunging oil prices by its union with the see fiscal union as part of monetary un- vanced economies have been in a debt rest of the UK. ion. Such timidity has costs.” PAGE 12 www.celtic-connection.com FEBRUARY 2015 Delta Police Pipe Band RMM Pipe Band: hold largest Burns’ Dedicated to developing event in the world talented young pipers

THE Delta Police Pipe Band has been selected to represent Canada at the Netherlands Military Tattoo to celebrate the 70th JACK AND TERRY Lee RMM presentation at the annual Burns anniversary of the libertation of Holland during WWII. PHOTOS: Joanne Snow dinner held at the Executive Inn in Coquitlam. By COLIN ABEL Then, the exceptional dance band The ROBERT MALCOLM MEMO- The Delta Police Pipe Band held Earthtones delighted the crowd into the RIAL 3 PS Luke Snow and its 41st annual Robbie Burns’ din- wee hours of the morning. RMM 2 Connor Watt at the ners last month before two sell- These events are major fundraisers for Robert Malcolm Memorial Pipe out crowds totalling 870 guests. the band which will attend the Okanogan Band Robbie Burns dinner on This event is believed to be the Military Tattoo in Vernon this summer Saturday, January 24. largest of its kind in the world. and in September will travel to Holland to participate in the Netherlands Mili- By JOANNE SNOW Under the direction of Pipe Major John tary Tattoo. COQUITLAM – The Robert Ralston and Drum Majors J.P. DaSilva Holland is celebrating the 70th anniver- Malcolm Memorial (RMM) Pipe and Jim Wishlove, crowds were enter- sary of the liberation of Holland by Ca- tained by the pipe band’s three perform- Band Robbie Burns dinner was nadian Forces during the Second World held at the Executive Plaza Inn in ances, the regimental dancers and pip- War and it is an honour for the band to ers, and songs by the band’s singing be selected as the only pipe band to Coquitlam on January 24. group The Deltones. represent Canada at this prestigious This annual celebratory tribute to the Also performing were the Shannon event. life, works and spirit of the great Scot- Highland dancers, master piper Alan For more information, see: tish poet, Robert Burns (1759-1796) Walters and various speakers extolling www.deltapolicepipeband.com. was a wonderful event with a special MEMBERS of the Robert Malcolm Memorial bands at the an- the virtues of Robert Burns. guest performance by the six time world nual Burns dinner. The band is named after Robert Barbulak champions the Simon Fraser University and Malcolm Bokenfohr, two dedicated members of the SFU (SFU) Pipe Band lead by Pipe Major Alan Bevan. Pipe Band who were killed in an automobile accident in 1993. Oil price crash Part of the world renowned Simon the four RMM bands competing at grade Glasgow this past August. This band Fraser University Pipe Band, the 2, 3, 5 and novice 5 for the upcoming has been promoted to grade 3. Robert Malcolm Memorial Pipe Band competition season. threatens future is named after Robert Barbulak and The silent auction component of the Malcolm Bokenfohr, two dedicated The Robbie Burns dinner is an annual evening was a huge success. Guests members of the SFU Pipe Band who fundraiser for the RMM bands. A won- had an opportunity to bid on over 100 of North Sea oilfields were killed in an automobile accident derful meal featuring the traditional hag- items including trips, wine cellars, draft gis was enjoyed by over 270 guests. beer collections, just to name a few. ABERDEEN – In a blow to the Scot- Energy Secretary Ed Davey, who trav- not of their cause in November 1993. tish economy as well as the thousands elled to Aberdeen on January 14 to meet The RMM band was formed in Janu- Performances by all RMM bands de- A wonderful evening was enjoyed by of workers employed in the oil sector, industry leaders, said the government ary 1994 to continue the development lighted audiences. A special presenta- all and the evening was a success for BP revealed it was cutting 200 onshore was “determined to do everything we tion was made to the RMM 4 band who the RMM pipe band society. Planning of talented and dedicated young play- th workers and 100 contractor roles from can” to save jobs. ers much as Rob and Malcolm were. won the Tayside Shield, for placing 5 is already underway for the 2016 din- its 3,500 staff in the North Sea. in the Novice Juvenile competition, at ner and we hope to see you there! He announced he has appointed Andy Currently there are over 100 players in the World Pipe Band Championships in The price of a barrel of Brent crude – Samuel, head of the Oil and Gas Au- the global benchmark – has more than thority industry regulator, to lead an “ur- halved since June and stands at around gent commission” into “practical meas- $48 (£31.50). It could tumble as low ures to mitigate the immediate risks.” as $31 (£20.44) by April, according to Sir Ian Wood, who recently completed forecasters at Bank of America Merrill Lynch. a review of the UK’s offshore oil busi- nesses, said that as many as 15,000 jobs But the weak oil price also undermines could be lost in the industry, which em- nationalists’ claims that an independent ploys more than 450,000 staff across Scotland can rely on its natural re- the country, with around 62,000 directly sources. in exploration. Mark Carney, Governor of the Bank The falling oil price has been caused of England, appearing before the Treas- by a rapid growth of U.S. shale output, ury Select Committee, called the oil and the refusal of OPEC – the Organi- price fall a “negative shock for Scot- sation of the Petroleum Exporting Coun- land.” tries – to cut production, which would push it back up. The collapse in oil prices has already seen a number of major firms scrap Malcolm Webb, chief executive of the projects, cut jobs and slash wages – and industry body Oil & Gas UK, called for the North Sea sector is now at “crisis” urgent action to halt the decline and point, according to experts. asked the treasury to radically reduce the tax burden on British oil firms. U.S.-based North Sea oil producer Conoco-Phillips is to cut 230 British Fergus Ewing, the Scottish govern- jobs, while Royal Dutch Shell and Qatar ment’s energy minister, described it as are to shelve a £4.3 billion project in “the most serious jobs situation Scot- THE COLLAPSE in the price of oil has seen a number of companies change their plans and the Middle East. land has faced in living memory.” insiders claim the crash threatens the future of the North Sea oilfields. FEBRUARY 2015 www.celtic-connection.com PAGE 13 In Memory of Ron MacLeod: A great Scots-Canadian and a son of Raasay EDINBURGH – Ron until the early Twentieth Century and to see where they lived, I walk beyond MacLeod, one of the com- the end of the public road to the most munity founders of Centre northern tip of the island where even the sheep can’t find much to graze on for Scottish Studies at between the rocks. Simon Fraser University, Ron’s father Murdo MacLeod came passed away last month. By from Kyle Rona, his mother Julia HARRY MacLeod from Fladda a small island Ron is survived by Lorraine, McGRATH joined to Raasay at low tide. THE abandoned cottage on Raasay that was once home to the his beloved wife of 57 Julia’s cousin, Calum MacLeod, built MacLeod family. years. the last two miles of the road himself after the Distict Council refused to help As a tribute to a great Scots-Cana- him, which is the only reason I don’t Raasay Island dian, The Celtic Connection has have to walk even further than I did. Raasay (Scottish Gaelic: Ratharsair) is an island between the Isle of kindly agreed to republish a column Skye and the mainland of Scotland. It is separated from Skye by the When Murdo MacLeod left Raasay, he Sound of Raasay and from Applecross by the Inner Sound. I wrote in 2007 when I visited the is- went to Glasgow and then joined his land of Raasay where the brother Ewen in Victoria, British Co- It is most famous for being the birthplace of the poet Sorley MacLean, MacLeods lived before they left for lumbia. an important figure in the Scottish literary renaissance. Canada. Finally, he settled with Julia in Tofino Traditionally the home of Clan MacSween, the island was ruled by the • MacLeods from the 15th to the 19th century. Subsequently a series of The journey from Glasgow to the Heb- and there they raised a family. private landlords held title to the island, which is now largely in public ridean island of Raasay feels epic. The three families of Raasay MacLeods ownership. My brother’s aging car rattles and who settled in Tofino were Gaelic creaks north, threatening to overheat speakers and Ron remembers gather- when the sun is out, but cooling off ings at the house where the ceiling ech- again in the apocalyptic downpours that oed to the sound of an ancient language hit every half hour or so. that he couldn’t understand. Scotland’s history rushes past the win- RON MACLEOD There was no road into Tofino when dow – the skeletal remains of the ship- the MacLeods arrived, just as there was yards along the Clyde, the bonnie banks no road into Rona or Fladda, and to sur- of Loch Lomond immortalized in Jaco- “...a pleasing low vive the family fished just as they had bite song, Glencoe and its terrible mas- fished on Raasay. sacre. spot with good But there were opportunities in Canada I note especially the Canadian connec- grass fields and that the landlord system in Scotland did tions – a distant view of Greenock from not allow. Ron eventually became Di- where so many sailed, the district of corn lands about rector General of Pacific and Fresh- Lochaber which filled the ships and, water Fisheries and was awarded the north of Fort William, the great sweep it….and a good Order of Canada for his services. of Glengarry, its name copied for the Sadness clings to the north end of Scottish settlement in Ontario. garden....” Raasay like mist. By the time I reach the wee ferry from fertility of this corner of the island, how- It echoes the sadness that we heard in Sconser to Raasay, however, I am Ron MacLeod when he spoke in his thinking of journeys that really were ever, held dire portents for the people of Raasay. White Rock kitchen of the place his epic. people came from. I remember Ron telling us about his Those made by the people who left Walking around the broken communi- Raasay for all corners of the world. “All family being moved from “the fertile south to the barren north,” a process ties of Fladda and Kyle Rona, I come the blood that flowed away” as Scot- across ruined cottages that at one time tish band the Proclaimers put it. that ensured their eventual departure for Canada. would have had families in them and In the early Twentieth Century, an ex- the source of Ron’s sadness is suddenly tended family of MacLeods left their The grass in the south is still as green clear to me. as it was when Boswell admired it, the communities on the northern tip of One of the cottages is home to a litter Raasay and eventually found their way corn lands are still there and, because it is late spring, the area around the of Border collie puppies which venture to Tofino on the west coast of Vancou- out one after another to have their pic- ver Island. house is alight with blooming rhododen- dron bushes. tures taken. I know something of the family story Someone has left food for them but because Ron MacLeod, a son of the Heading north, however, things change quickly just as Ron said they would. The there is no other sign of human pres- original emigrants, told it to Ron Suth- ence. erland and me when we interviewed him grass and corn gives way to heather in his White Rock kitchen in 2005. and rock. Another is the house of Ron’s grandfa- ther, still standing at Kyle Rona but used I have come to Raasay to try to under- Sheep are disappearing in other parts of Scotland but they are still on Raasay. as a storage space by a shepherd. The stand more of their remarkable journey. MacLeods are all gone. From the ferry terminal I drive to They part reluctantly to let the car past, the lambs making last minute dashes in Sorley MacLean, the great Gaelic poet Raasay House on the south end of the of Raasay, felt the spirit of the departed Island. It is now an “adventure centre” front of the bumper to join their moth- ers on the other side of the single track people at the cleared community of but was once the home of the MacLeod Hallaig and wrote: lairds until the last of them migrated to road. Tasmania in 1843. These are the descendents of the sheep They are still in Hallaig, introduced to Raasay in the 1840s. Macleans and Macleods, A previous building on this site was All who were there in the time burned by government troops in re- To make way for these sheep, people of Mac Gille Chaluim: venge for the laird secreting Bonnie were moved around or cleared com- the dead have been seen alive. Prince Charlie in a Raasay bothy after pletely from the island. For a time even the Battle of Culloden. marriage was banned to discourage set- Ron MacLeod remembers his father tlement. saying to him “I came to Canada so that Johnson and Boswell were here too you could be a Canadian.” during their tour of the Hebrides in 1773, Raasay is an example of a Scottish is- with Boswell observing that the family land that suffered almost continuously Canada has been good to the people of seat “was in a pleasing low spot with from landlordism. the Scottish Highlands, even if it was good grass fields and corn lands about not always their choice to go there. The island changed hands often and, it….and a good garden plentifully The important thing is not to forget and stocked with vegetables and strawber- with a few exceptions, the landlords were either neglectful or rapacious. Ron’s efforts to preserve his family his- ries, raspberries, currants etc.” tory ensure that the MacLeods of Boswell’s innocent observations on the Ron’s family somehow survived here Raasay will not be forgotten. Hold fast. PAGE 14 www.celtic-connection.com FEBRUARY 2015 Mahony & Sons Stamps Landing: The shining jewel in the family chain ANCOUVER: Last summer the third and much anticipated Mahony & Sons Public House res- V taurant/pub opened in Stamps Landing on False Creek. It is now the shin- ing jewel in the Mahony & Sons chain.

By CATHOLINE THE dramatic entrance at BUTLER THE MAHONY clan now own and operate three locations in Mahony & Sons Stamps Land- Vancouver. ing features vaulted ceilings, wide use of mahogany, hand- Situated on the waterfront, carved wood, Celtic designs, and so close to the water you and Irish artwork. could put your toes in for a dip, it offers two floors with outdoor patios featuring pano- ramic views of spectacular scenery. The patio on the top A PRIVATE meeting room over- looks the spectacular Vancou- floor would have to rank right ver waterfront. up there among the best in Vancouver. The building was originally the site of Monk McQueen’s and when the Mahony family pur- right below our building. It’s another chased the location, it was com- mode of transport for people to arrive here from Yaletown, Granville Island pletely renovated from top to bot- and the Olympic Village.” tom. It’s a large facility with seating in total All the furniture and decor was de- for about 575, but in the summertime, signed and imported from Ireland. Irish with both outdoor patios at capacity, The Rebirth of Maui Celtic Spirals artists were flown to Vancouver to cre- add an additional 300 seats to that ate the familiar authentic Celtic motif number. By JENNIFER FAHRNI “Celtic Music Radio are delighted to be design that identifies the high-end After nearly a decade of pro- able to share the show with our audi- Mahony & Sons establishments. A number of local entertainers are fea- ence in Glasgow and round the world tured every Thursday, Friday and Sat- ducing and hosting his own in over 170 countries. The Mahony family, originally from urday night. Many also perform at the radio show for a small non- Cork, Ireland, has deep roots in the other locations such as Evan Kennedy, “Hamish’s show is world class and adds hospitality industry. Great great great Pat Chessell, and Johnny Leroux. profit station in Maui, Hawaii, a great Hawaiian perspective to Celtic grandfather Barney ran The Good Hamish Burgess’ dreams music.” On special occasions, such as St. Woman Pub in Australia in the 1870’s were dashed one day when he The Maui Celtic Radio Show spiraled (after being exiled from Ireland in 1832 Patrick’s Day which falls on a Tuesday this year, there will be entertainment from nearly gone, to a global broadcast for pickpocketing). was given his walking pa- on two of Celtic music’s top forums. featured all day from 1 PM. Another pers. Peter (Pete) Mahony is the general special celebration will be on Canada The show is now heard online interna- manager at the Stamps Landing loca- Day, July 1. “I was devastated,” he said. “I ran the tionally four days a week, and on air tion and he recently spoke to The Celtic whole spectrum of emotions from sur- across Glasgow in Scotland. Connection about some of the restau- Between Super Bowl and St. Patrick’s Day, Mahony & Sons offers an excit- prise, to anger, to sadness. I sat on those Long time show underwriters are B.C. rant and particularly St. Patrick’s ac- emotions for a month while the station tivities as this will be the first year at ing chance to win a trip to Ireland. residents, Anne and George Millar, and went off air to restructure.” HAMISH Burgess is pictured this location. The draw is held on March 17, St. The Irish Rovers. When the re-vamped station came back above in the studio with his vast He said, “we’re super excited about Patrick’s Day, and begins February 2 collection of Celtic music. Millar says, “It’s all about promoting what we’ve done here at our False for the six weeks leading up to St. on air, Burgess’s show would have been Irish music around the world, and what Creek location and we’re looking for- Patrick’s Day. the first broadcast. better place than Maui Celtic. Astounded, Burgess messaged back, ward to our first St. Patrick’s and sum- Pete explains, “Anytime a customer The last thing he wanted was to talk “When you can hear this programme in mer coming up. about being let go, but felt he owed lis- “You want a Maui show?” Connor did comes into any of the Mahony & Sons indeed want the Maui Celtic show, and Timbuktu, or Ahoghill just outside “Since our location in False Creek is in locations and orders any of the Irish teners an explanation as to why he was Ballymena, I think that’s wonderful, and no longer there. was excited at the possibility of adding a residential area, we attract a lot of beers such as Kilkenny, Harp and Guin- it to his station lineup. I’m very, very happy to help make that those residents, but our clientele base ness, they will receive an entry form. “I had to face the music and post on happen. It’s the best thing on radio – “I was a long time fan of Hamish’s is quite similar to the Burrard Landing “The entries all go into a box and the Facebook about my losing the show… by far.” location, so it’s really a nice mix.” kind of humiliating.” show and would tune in from Canada. prize is a return trip for two to Dublin When I realized he was no longer on Hamish says, “I’m stoked to have one The Stamps Landing location hosts a and a $500 spending voucher. The high- Immediately, replies came flying in, in- air I thought it a travesty and immedi- of the biggest and longest-running Celtic lot of corporate events where clients light of the trip is a tour for two of the cluding this: “I heard a worrying bit of ately offered him a prime time slot on music groups on the planet as my un- have booked the entire upstairs, some- Guinness brewery.” chat today, I am a big fan of yours and the schedule,” says Stevie. derwriters. It couldn’t get any better for times the entire facility. • hope the rumour is not true that you are my genre of music. Mahony & Sons, False Creek location is going off air.” “Hamish brought his great music Pete said, “It’s certainly a destination located at 601 Stamps Landing in Van- knowledge, not to mention listeners “The old guard are helping the new art- for Vancouverites, as well as a lot of couver. Call (604) 976-0234; Mahony & The message was from Scotsman from around the world.” ists get their music out there. Pretty in- visitors who can enjoy the beautiful Sons Burrard Landing is located at 1055 Stevie Connor, co-founder of Blues and spirational.” view, a delicious dinner and then listen Canada Place, #36, Vancouver. Call (604) Roots Radio in Ontario (and Australia Soon after that, while visiting Scotland, Hamish was a studio guest at Celtic Full details at www.mauiceltic.com. to the music. 647-7513; Mahony & Sons Public House and the UK). Sunday 1-3 PM PST (repeat Monday at UBC, 5990 University Boulevard, Van- Music Radio in Glasgow. With Hamish “We also get a lot of people who hop couver. Call (604) 827-4444. More in- Connor continued, “If that be the case, in their studio, Ross Macfadyen, a di- and Friday) at www.bluesandroots on the Aquabus and arrive here by that formation at www.mahonyandsons please know I would love to carry it on rector of the station also arranged to radio.com, and Tuesday 11 AM to 1 PM means because the dock drop off is .com. Blues and Roots Radio.” add the show to their network. GMT at www.celticmusicradio.net. FEBRUARY 2015 www.celtic-connection.com PAGE 15 ‘The Very Best of Celtic Thunder’ on tour of western Canada ABBOTSFORD, B.C. – Af- Drunken Nights from Voyage, A Celtic Thunder is backed by the dy- Place in The Choir from Heritage and namic Celtic Thunder Band and their ter a run of extremely success- Turning Away from Mythology. shows are known for the use of dra- ful shows, Celtic Thunder is matic effects of lighting and choreog- Of course, no Celtic Thunder show set to return to western raphy as well as a stage set resembling would be complete without a perform- an ancient stone pathway suggestive of Canada with their brand new ance of their rousing anthem Ireland’s those referenced in Celtic lore. Call, which generally acts as the show “The Very Best of Celtic show’s finale and never fails to bring Tickets for “The Very Best of Celtic Thunder” tour. the audience to its feet. Thunder” tour are on-sale and dates in- clude: Abbotsford, B.C. – Tuesday, The tour features an eclectic collection In addition to these incredibly popular March 10 – Abbotsford Centre; Ed- of the group’s best-loved and most ensemble performances, “The Very monton, Alberta – Monday, March 16 CELTIC THUNDER is an acclaimed Irish singing group and popular songs from the past seven Best of Celtic Thunder” tour will also – Enmax Hall, Winspear Centre; stage show frequently featured in concert specials on PBS. It feature a wide variety of solo hits from years. Calgary, Alberta – Wednesday, March is known for its eclectic, theatrical style show. the principal singers such as Ride On, 18 – Jack Singer Concert Hall. Drawing material from Celtic Thunder’s The Dutchman, Noreen, Danny Boy, nine Public Television specials, eleven Puppy Love and many more. CDs and DVDs and eight U.S. tours to date, “The Very Best of Celtic Thun- Celtic Thunder is the brainchild of pro- der” tour aims to combine all Celtic ducer Sharon Browne and since its in- Thunder classics, fan favorites and hit ception in 2007 has released 11 albums, songs into a formidable stage show, toured the U.S. and Canada, coast-to- married with that huge Celtic Thunder coast, eight times, and Australia three signature sound, dramatic lighting and times performing at over 800 shows to imposing set that audiences and fans date. everywhere have come to expect from Celtic Thunder has also been hailed as a Celtic Thunder show. Billboard’s “Top World Music Artist,” Celtic Thunder’s principal singers, along with “Top World Music Imprint” backed as ever by the amazing eight and “Top World Album” of 2008, 2009 piece Celtic Thunder band, will deliver and again in 2011. their much loved ensemble numbers The Celtic Thunder official YouTube with selections including Heartland channel “Thunder Tube” has received from the albums Celtic Thunder: The over 28 million views since 2008. Show, Galway Girl and Seven A new global federation to connect Irish pubs DUBLIN – The Irish Pubs Global Fed- bal community of Irish pub owners, eration has a network of nearly 7,000 managers and suppliers. worldwide Irish establishments. With this new platform, Irish pub own- In practically any city in the world, on ers all over the world can easily com- some corner or some street, you will municate and coordinate. find an Irish pub. But now, for the first time, Irish pubs around the world will Irish economic development agency En- be getting to know each other. terprise Ireland and Irish food board Bord Bia are backing the operation. Irish Minister for the Diaspora Jimmy Deenihan has launched an official net- Enda O’Coineen, the Federation’s work of nearly 7,000 global Irish pubs, founder, said the new network wants creating a platform from which Irish pub to combine the presences of its mem- owners can collaborate for mutual ben- bers to create “something greater than efit and the benefit of Ireland. their whole.” The Irish Pubs Global Federation is an An Irish Pubs Global Gathering Event extension of Irish Pubs Global, which will take place on February 26-28 in aims to create and support a strong glo- Dublin. PAGE 16 www.celtic-connection.com FEBRUARY 2015 IRISH WOMEN’S NETWORK Irish workers heading Nollaig na mBan: for Canada and NZ Canada is offering 10,000 ing that 2015 applicants prepare all rel- Irish women in B.C. and Ontario working holiday visas for evant documentation now. Irish residents this year, while “The 2014 Canadian working holiday quota for Irish applicants was issued in exchange greetings via Skype New Zealand is offering jobs two stages, the first quota was filled to those in the construction within 15 minutes and the second quota By MAIREAD FOLEY was filled within a half hour,” said industry. Shanahan. According to migration specialists In 2014, applicants who were issued VisaFirst.com, Canada’s IEC (Interna- places in the first and second quota roll tional Experience Class) Working Holi- out, were given up to three months to day Visa programme looks set to open get documentation ready for the work over the next few weeks, with 10,000 permit application. places available for Irish workers in 2015. However, this year it is estimated that once an applicant has a place on the Commenting on the much sought after Canadian working holiday programme, visa programme, Edwina Shanahan immigration will give applicants just one manager with www.visafirst.com, the to two weeks to get the required docu- Canadian visas are likely to be snapped mentation lodged. up as soon as they are launched. Visafirst.com also revealed New Zea- “We believe this year’s visas will be akin land is calling for Irish workers to fill VANCOUVER – The to Frozen dolls at Christmas — and I posts in the construction sector. In the MARIE BRUCE, Deirdre O’Ruairc and Geraldine Megannety think most people will understand the Irish Women’s Network with IWN president Eilis Courtney. region of 20,000 Irish workers have re- buying frenzy that occurred around located to New Zealand in the last five of BC hosted a very suc- these. In addition, there is talk of late years. cessful event on January that Canadian Immigration will be re- ducing the number of visas for the “Since 2011 approximately 18,000 Irish 4 – Nollaig na mBan working holiday programme in 2016.” workers have travelled to New Zea- land for work and, with 4,000-5,000 (Women’s Christmas). Visafirst.com contend the quota for expected to leave this year the total 2015 will generate the same, if not more, number of the last five years will sur- Traditionally celebrated on interest as the 2014 quota for Canadian pass 20,000,” said Shanahan. January 6 (Little Christmas) working holiday visas. They are advis- Nollaig na mBan aims to rec- ognize the important role of women during the Christmas Both Ulster Protestants period, and indeed throughout the year. and Catholics suffered In Vancouver, an enthusiastic group of around 40 ladies met for in Great Famine an informal lunch at Mahony & DESPITE the cold and wet January day in Vancouver, it was a BELFAST – A new cross-commu- shibboleths surrounding the famine. Ul- Sons’ newest location at Stamps warm atmosphere inside Mahony and Sons Stamps Landing nity project in Belfast is aiming ster – all of it – was hit very badly, not Landing in False Creek. as women with the Irish Women’s Network gathered for Nollaig to shatter myths and raise aware- just Donegal.” na mBan (Women’s Christmas). ness about the famine across Ul- As hungry people flooded in from the The atmosphere was great and it proved ster. Ards peninsula – disease spread easily an ideal setting with plenty of room to in the tenement houses and by 1846 move about, chat and meet new peo- The initiative ‘Sharing the Past’ brings one in five people in Belfast had been ple. There were even a spot prizes for people from Belfast and Larne together affected. a lucky few. to look at how the poverty and disease came in the wake of the potato blight. However amidst the suffering there Many of those who attended are in were also gestures of help and charity. Vancouver for many years but several Historian Dr. Francis Costello said that are new to our city in the past year. both the Irish Catholic poor and the “In Howard Street in Belfast, the local Protestant poor in the north of the coun- merchants fed 2,000 people a day at On a rainy Sunday afternoon in Janu- try suffered some sort of contagion soup kitchens. The Society of Friends, ary the pub was mostly quiet except for linked to the famine. the Quakers, did tremendous work and the wonderful sounds of chatter and butchers and vegetable growers laughter as we celebrated our special The Great Famine took place between helped,” said Costello. Little Christmas. 1845 and 1852, resulting in the deaths of over one million people across Ire- “It was a calamity that struck across The Ontario branch of IWN was host- land and forced millions to emigrate. all classes and all faiths and no faiths.” ing a similar gathering in Ottawa at the same time and through the determina- Dr. Costello is currently writing a book He added, “In Belfast, then with an tion of Eilis Courtney and the staff at on the global impact of the hunger. overwhelmingly Protestant population, Mahony’s a Skype call was made. the evidence shows there was a rekin- He told the BBC, “What is rewarding dled ardour of the early Christian What a wonderful occasion for us all, about this project is that it is driven by Church characterized by charity and so far apart yet joined for a little while the grassroots up. There are very har- alms and the desire to alleviate starva- via technology to wish each other a rowing stories about people’s ancestors tion and illness. wonderful day. from Larne and the Shankill. “This saw people across traditions and A great idea and a lovely memory of “This is education from the ground up classes coming together to support the the day. A good day was had for sure, that breaks down the myths and the poor.” one which we hope to repeat next year. So with a new year ahead there are many things to look forward to. We are aiming to host another of our IRISH WOMEN in Vancouver sharing Nollaig na mBan greet- successful Newcomers Networking ings with members of the IWN branch in Ottawa, Ontario via events, most likely in the springtime, Skype. details to follow. proaching, IWN will likely arrange a members and friends as possible. This is an opportunity for any newcom- get-together to celebrate St. Patrick’s ers to come along and gain valuable tips Day and enjoy one or two of the For more information on events also on resumes and immigration. planned events. Details will be posted check out the ‘What’s on’ section of closer to the time. the Irish in Vancouver website at: In addition it offers a chance to meet www.irishinvancouver.com/whats- some new faces. Many established Please watch the website and Facebook on.html. members of the Irish in Vancouver com- page for updates, we encourage you to munity attend to offer advice where have a look and request to become a For more information on the Irish Wom- en’s Network of BC, visit they can. member. www.irishwomenbc.net, or e-mail Don’t forget CelticFest is fast ap- We look forward to welcoming as many [email protected]. OVER one million people across Ireland fled the Great Hunger. FEBRUARY 2015 www.celtic-connection.com PAGE 17 It’s the same old story for a whole new generation of Irish “There is no present or future, only the past He recently spoke to The Celtic Con- happening over and over again now” nection about what prompted him to – Eugene O’Neill, American playwright write the song. and Nobel laureate in Literature “I had just finished a tour of the famine ship the Jeanie Johnston – the three- MMIGRATION has been a way of life masted craft down near the Custom in Ireland from as far back as the Great House Quay in Dublin – where I learned that more than 2,500 people were trans- Famine in 1841 when starvation caused ported on that ship but, unlike the cof- a forced migration and the population fin ships, there was no loss of life. It I was built in Quebec in 1847. plummeted from almost 8.2 million to 6.5 million by “I left there still thinking about what I THE EVENING finale with all the performers on stage for a final 1851. had just seen and as I was walking along farewell at ‘An Irish Christmas’. The event was held to benefit the the Liffey, I noticed a huge red and white Irish Benevolent Society of B.C. and raised $1,650 to help pro- Many sorrowful songs of immigration Bryan Adams’ warehouse studio in sign posted by the Federal Government vide emergency assistance to the local Irish community. have been written by Ireland’s sons and Vancouver and then performed live at of Canada saying, ‘We want your daughters following those years as they ‘An Irish Christmas’ celebration to ben- tradespeople, your welders, your car- arrived in the United States, Canada efit the Irish Benevolent Society of B.C. penters, your electricians’. and Australia to find work and survival. It had a big emotional impact on those “I had some real mixed feelings about present. Now, with the Irish economic crash, that. I thought it must be very hard on emigration has once again become a sad The artists who contributed to the song the parents of those kids to see them fact. Only this time, those leaving are are Jamie Snyder on guitar (originally leave Ireland and travel so far away to some of Ireland’s best educated pro- from The Wonderful Grand Band in Canada and Australia to find work. fessionals in both skilled technical and Newfoundland); Catherine Flynn of “Then, I saw another sign saying there work trades. Vancouver (an emerging vocalist, whis- were 1,000 youths under the age of 25 tle player and soon-to-be banjo player); years old leaving Ireland each week.” These qualifications are highly prized Michael Burnyeat (a very young B.C., and recognized in countries around the fiddle player and old time fiddle cham- Continuing on his journey, Blake left world and have helped open doors for pion); and Blake Williams on vocals and Ireland for Australia where he met a whole new generation of Irish mi- bodhran. some of those young Irish migrants. grants. However, despite the advan- tages, the sadness of leaving friends and Blake said, “We performed the song in “I met some with two university de- family remains the same. public for the first time at the Irish grees who were directing traffic on Christmas event on December 13th, at highway construction jobs. That really Blake Williams, manager of The Irish St. James Hall, where it was very well got me thinking about the rise and fall Wakers Celtic group here in Vancou- received. of the Celtic Tiger, and so I just started MEMBERS of the organizing committee for ‘An Irish Christ- ver has written a very poignant and writing.” touching song about this newest wave Williams penned the lyrics and music mas’ presented a cheque to Maura De Freitas of the Irish Be- of immigrants from the Emerald Isle after a recent trip to Ireland and Aus- The song Diaspora (Again) can be nevolent Society. The committee included (L-R) Ken Christie entitled Diaspora (Again). tralia, where he met and spoke with heard on The Irish Wakers website at: of the Discovery Sailing Club, Blake Williams of the Irish Wakers some of the recent Irish arrivals in Aus- irishwakers.com. and Marian Buechert, of the duo Raven & Dove. The song was recently recorded in tralia. Bones found on Canadian beach likely children fleeing Ireland’s Great Famine

MONTREAL – Bones washed up on a Canadian out means, the only way to get there were “coffin ships.” beach are likely to be those of Irish children fleeing And though they carried refugees of the the horrors of the famine that ravaged Ireland in the Great Famine, coffin ships — illustra- tions of which resemble the sleeping 1840s. quarters of Nazi concentration camps In 2011 vertebrae and pieces of jaw- Since the discovery the remains have – were themselves deadly, claiming the bone were discovered on Quebec’s been forensically examined by scien- lives of up to 100,000 would-be mi- Gaspe Peninsula around 500 miles tists and historians – now a heritage grants, The Washington Post reports. away from Montreal. protection group say they probably be- “These ships were packed with peo- ple,” Kathryn Miles, author of All Standing: The Remarkable Story of the Jeanie Johnston, the Legendary Irish Famine Ship, told NPR last year. “Most families of four would be given a platform that was about six feet square. So they were sleeping head-to- toe and there was no sense of quaran- SCENE from the 2008 film Death or Canada, an Irish Film and tine or hygiene.” Television Award-nominated two-part Canadian-Irish documen- The research has also showed the bones tary based on events of An Gorta Mor: Ireland’s Great Hunger. had vitamin D deficiencies and malnour- ishment and are from those with a ‘plant-based’ diet. longed to children who died in a tragic Parks Canada said while it can’t prove ship sinking called The Carricks in the connection, there are a number of Researcher Remi Toupin said the work 1847. factors and indicators – including the had gone as far as possible in connect- fact that they belong to children, two of ing the remains with Famine victims. As the Great Famine tightened its grip whom are between seven and nine and “We can’t always reach absolute con- on Ireland more than 150 years ago – one 12-year-old. WATERCOLOUR of Grosse Île from the officers’ quarters, one million died and two million people clusions, but it’s always our goal to go 1838-1840 [Collections Canada]. The island of Grosse Île, lo- fled. Parks Canada archaeologist Pierre as far as possible in identifying people.” cated in the Gulf of St. Lawrence in Quebec, was the site of an Cloutier said, “They are witnesses to a The doomed ship The Carricks set sail Today, the population of Ireland and tragic event. You can’t have a more immigration depot which predominantly housed Irish immigrants Northern Ireland combined is still lower from Ireland to Quebec city in 1847 but coming to Canada to escape famine in Ireland [1845-1849]. It tangible witness to tragedy than human never made its destination. It went than it was before Abraham Lincoln remains,” he told The Globe and Mail. is believed that over 3,000 Irish died on the island and over became president. down in a storm off the peninsula. North America was just an ocean away 5,000 are currently buried in the cemetery there as many died And now, remains of some of those who Up to 100 on board survived while 87 en route. Grosse Île is the largest Irish potato famine burial for those desperate to escape from fam- people perished. In 1900, a monument tried to flee have been identified on a ine stricken Ireland. But for those with- ground outside Ireland. beach in Canada. was erected in memory of the disaster. PAGE 18 www.celtic-connection.com FEBRUARY 2015 OBITUARIES Almost 1,650 people needed DR. TOM A. BARRETT [August 2, 1944 - January 31, 2015] will be remembered by his many friends in the Vancouver Irish community. Irish consular help last year DUBLIN – Almost 1,650 Irish people born in a foreign country. He passed away peacefully in his sleep surrounded by loved needed diplomatic assistance while ones at the age of 70 after a courageous battle with Mul- abroad last year, it has been revealed. The department said more than 5,500 tiple System Atrophy. babies were registered through the For- Child abductions, accidents and arrests eign Births Registration, with the ma- Beloved husband, adored father, brother, friend and re- were among the emergencies which jority being born in the United States, spected doctor will be deeply missed by all who were fortunate enough to have required intervention from embassy of- Britain, Australia, Canada and South known him. ficials, according to the Department of Africa. Foreign Affairs and Trade. Tom is survived by his wife Marion, daughter Gillian, son-in-law Rob and son A further 3,000 Certificats de Coutume Nial. He is also survived by his brothers Denis, John, brother-in-law Billy along Consular help was also given to the (civil letters of freedom) were issued with their wives and numerous nieces and nephews back home in Ireland. families of 217 people who died in a to Irish citizens getting married or en- Tom arrived in Canada with a bang in 1972 following great success both scholas- foreign country last year. tering civil partnerships abroad, with “Ireland’s diplomats stand ready to re- Italy, Spain, Malta, France and Ger- tically and athletically in Ireland. Minister for Foreign Affairs, Charlie spond quickly and effectively to urgent many among the most popular countries Flanagan, said, “our staff are deeply He captained both his school and university rugby teams while also earning a cases and emergency situations world- for the ceremonies abroad. committed to assisting Irish citizens in spot on the vaunted Munster Rugby side. wide.” difficulty and to helping Irish families An additional 50 applications were re- Upon graduating with a degree in medicine from University College Cork, Tom at home dealing with distressing situa- Meanwhile, there was a 10 percent in- ceived from Irish citizens entering into interned in Pediatrics at both the Mercy Hospital in Cork and later at Vancouver tions abroad. crease in the number of Irish citizens a same-sex civil partnership abroad. General Hospital. In 1973 Tom entered family practice, as a family physician he treated every patient as if they truly were family and received the same appreciation in return. In 1974 Tom added to his duties when he became an instructor at the Depart- New Irish passport card ment of Family Practice at UBC Medical School. In 1976, Tom joined a team of physicians at the Olympic Games in Montreal. This proved to be a proud and exhilarating experience for him when his peers to allow European travel voted him to lead the team as Chief Medical Officer. The new credit card sized document will Through the years that followed Tom remained a respected figure in the medical be issued as a supplement to existing community as a staff member of numerous hospitals in the Vancouver area while passports. The card will be valid for a simultaneously running his very busy medical practice with his partner and wife maximum of five years and will cost Marion. Most patients can attest to what a hallowed team they were. EU35. Tom will forever be remembered as a kind, gentle and courteous man whose Incorporated in it are a number of se- presence and cheer filled every room he graced. curity features, including an embedded hologram. Details on the card will in- clude name, date of birth and passport number. Minister for Foreign Affairs Charlie Flanagan said the card will be particu- larly useful for young people who use their passport as identification, “espe- cially on nights out.” DUBLIN – Irish citizens will be able to travel within A new smartphone app was also the European Union and the European economic area launched to allow people to apply for the card and includes a feature that will using a new Irish passport card from mid-July. take a photograph to meet international standards for passports. The card will be available to all Irish THE CROFTERS – Harry Baptie is pictured in the centre with NOVENAS citizens over 18 and who already hold Alan Walker on the left and Drew Thomson the right. a valid passport. HARRY BAPTIE, born September 27, 1944 in Glasgow, Scotland, passed away NOVENA TO request) and that I may praise God with peacefully on December 7, 2014, after a long illness in Lions Gate Hospital, THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY you and all the elect forever. I promise, O Police probing North Vancouver. Survived by his loving wife, Anne and son, Derek. Novena to the Blessed Virgin Mary (never blessed St. Jude, to be ever mindful of this known to fail). O most beautiful flower of great favor, to always honor you as my spe- Harry was a member of the well-known Celtic group, The Crofters. They per- Mount Carmel, fruitful vine, splendour of cial and powerful patron, and to gratefully Roy Keane formed at many North Vancouver venues and The British Ex Servicemen’s Club Heaven, Blessed Mother of the Son of God. encourage devotion to you. Amen in Vancouver. They also entertained at numerous Celtic Connection events. Immaculate Virgin, assist me in this my – PMC, MJF, CB, CC necessity. There are none that can • ‘incident’ For those who wish to pay their respects there will be a memorial service for withstand your power. O show me herein Novena to St. Anthony MANCHESTER – Police are investi- Harry Baptie on Saturday, February 21, at 10 AM, Boel Chapel, 1505 Lillooet you are my Mother, Mary, conceived without Remember, O Saint of Miracles, that you gating an alleged road rage incident Road, North Vancouver. RIP. sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee have never failed to help and comfort involving former Manchester United (three times). Sweet Mother, I place this anyone who has ever sought you in a captain Roy Keane. cause in your hands (three times). Holy time of need. I too come to you, who are Spirit, you who solve all problems, light all so rich in graces, Keane, 43, is said to have got into an roads so that I can attain my goal. You and the favoured friend of the Infant Je- altercation with a taxi driver in gave me the Divine gift to forgive and forget sus, confident that I do not pray in vain. all evil against me. This prayer must be Eloquent preacher of the Infinite Mercy Altrincham town centre, which led to said for three days, even after the request of God, do not refuse my prayer, but take police being called. is granted and the favour received, it must my request before the throne of God, so be published. – PKM, MJ, CC, CTK that I may have help and strength in my A spokesman for Greater Manchester • present trial and necessity. Listen to my Police said, “At 11:30 AM, police were Novena to St. Clare voice, together with that of your friars who called to Ashley Road, Altrincham, to For nine days, pray for one impossible ask you a grace for me. Amen.– SVS a report that a man had behaved ag- request, two business requests, pray • gressively towards another man. nine Hail Marys for nine days, each day. Novena to the Infant Jesus of Prague This novena must be published whether O Infant Jesus, I run to you begging you “An investigation is under way to es- through Your Holy Mother to save me in prayers are granted or not. – SVS tablish the exact circumstances sur- this need (name it), for I truly and firmly rounding the incident.” • believe that Your Divinity can defend me. Novena to St. Jude Full of trust, I hope in you to obtain Your The current assistant manager for the Most holy apostle, St. Jude, faithful serv- holy grace. I love You with all my heart, I Republic of Ireland football team lives ant and friend of Jesus, the Church honors am painfully sorry for my sins and on my and invokes you universally, as the patron knees I beg You, O Little Jesus, to free me in nearby Hale. of hopeless cases, of things almost de- from them. My resolution is to improve and spaired of. Pray for me, I am so helpless never more to offend You. Therefore, I of- and alone. Make use I implore you, of that fer myself to You and to serve You faith- particular privilege given to you, to bring fully. I will love my neighbour as myself visible and speedy help where help is al- from my heart for the love of You. O Little most despaired of. Come to my assist- Jesus, I adore You, O Mighty Child, I im- We’re still growing strong. Become ance in this great need that I may receive plore You. Save me in this need (you can a fan of The Celtic Connection on the consolation and help of heaven in all mention if here), that I may enjoy You eter- my necessities, tribulations, and nally, with Mary and Joseph see You and Facebook. Get up-to-the minute sufferings, particularly - (Here make your with all the angels adore You. – SVS news flashes and upcoming events. Find the link on the Publication of this prayer is $25 monthly homepage of our website at: (Canadian residents include 5% GST) www.celtic-connection.com. FEBRUARY 2015 www.celtic-connection.com PAGE 19 IRISH BENEVOLENT SOCIETY OF B.C. A Bittersweet Irish Seniors Christmas Luncheon By CATHOLINE BUTLER VANCOUVER – On December 18 the Irish Benevolent Society of B.C. hosted the Irish Seniors Christmas luncheon at the Holi- day Inn Express on Hastings Street in Vancouver. This was the final luncheon in this se- ries made possible through the Irish Emigrant Support Programme with the Department of Foreign Affairs of the Government of Ireland. Every table in the banquet room at the Holiday Inn was filled to capacity. It was a bittersweet Christmas luncheon with so many Irish seniors expressing sadness that this series had come to an end but all saying how much they had enjoyed the luncheons and thanking the Benevolent Society for their time and effort in organizing the events. Many of the Irish seniors said the lunch- eons provided a wonderful opportunity to meet up with old friends and catch up with what had happened over the years – it also provided an opportunity to make new friends. The Christmas luncheon buffet was festive and delicious and the entertain- ment with Michael Viens, Rosie Carver and Mary Brunner was excellent. Michael handed out Christmas song sheets and guests were invited to join in the lively Christmas songs. As with all of the luncheons after the buffet the microphone was turned over to the seniors and it was now their turn to entertain their fellow countrymen...and they did. The Irish seniors luncheons are more like a house party with the amazing amount of talent in the room, there’s never enough hours in the afternoon to hear all the songs and jokes and none are the same. Hopefully there will be more again in the future.

PHOTOS: COURTESY OF CATHOLINE BUTLER AND BERNARD WARD

IN MEMORY OF JACKIE MURPHY IN MEMORY of wee Jackie Murphy from Belfast who passed away sud- denly on Christmas Day. Jackie was a fixture at every Irish senior lunch- eon hosted by the Irish Benevolent Society of B.C. along with his beloved wife Nora. He is remembered with great fondness and will be deeply missed by his many friends in Van- couver and beyond. PAGE 20 www.celtic-connection.com FEBRUARY 2015 Cost of Irish bank bailout Irish hospitals in crisis revealed at Oireachtas Inquiry with overcrowding DUBLIN – The crippling bank the tone and content of a letter to the DUBLIN – Overcrowding in eral Hospital and Croom Orthopaedic Irish Government threatening to with- Hospital have voted overwhelmingly in bailout has cost Irish taxpay- draw emergency funding from the Irish Irish hospitals has reached favour of industrial action. ers an estimated EU40 billion banking system in late 2010. crisis levels according to the It came after nurses at Galway Uni- to date, the Governor of the Honohan revealed the possible extent Irish Nurses and Midwives Or- versity Hospital voted for the action and Central Bank has revealed. of a bank rescue involving the Interna- ganisation (INMO). a week after Beaumont Hospital also tional Monetary Fund (IMF) in 2010 in The number of patients on trolleys in announced its intention of going on a In his first day of evidence to the a phone call to RTE Radio three days work to rule. Oireachtas banking inquiry, Patrick hospital emergency units continues to before the government made a formal grow with elderly patients having to wait Honohan told the hearing that more application for funding. Nurses in Drogheda, Beaumont, Naas, consideration should have been given for days, according to nurses who pro- Mullingar, Galway and the Mid-West to liquidate rogue lenders Anglo Irish Committee members were warned not tested against hospital overcrowding on (Limerick) Hospital Group are to vote Bank and Irish Nationwide in Septem- to raise the phone call at the hearing. January 14. on possible industrial action in response ber 2008 rather than including them in to the crisis. Honohan told the inquiry that Anglo The INMO warned that patient care the mammoth EU440 billion guarantee should have been allowed to fail and was being compromised in overcrowded Meanwhile, Fianna Fail health spokes- of the banking system. that it was effectively dead by Mon- A&Es with some palliative care patients man Billy Kelleher said Health Minis- PATRICK HONOHAN Governor being left on trolleys for over four days Honohan compiled a report in 2010 for of the Central Bank of Ireland. day, September 29, 2008 when the bank ter Leo Varadkar should step in. “Over- the Irish Government attempting to ex- guarantee was unveiled. and elderly and frail patients, with chest crowding is crippling emergency depart- plain why regulators did not spot the and other conditions, being left on trol- ments at hospitals the length and breadth He said regulators should have known looming banking crisis in Dublin and which we have all been seeking to re- leys with no dignity or privacy. of the country and is putting patients’ it was bust but that the government attempt to prevent it and what the best pair and rebuild.” safety at risk. would have been pilloried and would Dozens of nurses from all over the containment measures would have The bank guarantee from September have been treated as a pariah interna- country attended the demonstration, “This is a crisis which has been dete- been. 2008 covered customers’ deposits and tionally. which took place outside Leinster riorating steadily for the past year, but The governor told the inquiry that he bank borrowings in all the major insti- House. the minister has stood back and refused Honohan said that allowing Anglo to fail stands by his 130-page report and that tutions. to take action and now the numbers on then would have been a “European Members of the INMO working in the regulation system at the time of the trolleys have reached record levels,” he The inquiry is holding a series of hear- Lehmans,” an assessment he has given University Hospital Limerick, Ennis crash in 2008 in Ireland was one of “a said. “This is a frightening state of af- ings in an attempt to uncover the rea- in the past. Hospital, Nenagh Hospital, Naas Gen- triumph of hope over reality.” sons the mammoth blanket security was fairs.” Honohan described Anglo in Septem- In his opening address he said, “No given and the failings in the regulatory ber 2008 as having a “business model regulatory system can or even should and political systems at the time. that was not credible” and that it had attempt to eliminate all possibility of The European Central Bank (ECB) has “run out of cash” and that government failure, and regulation and supervision so far refused to take part in the in- or regulators should have stepped in to must be able to change with a con- Taoiseach to receive quiry. shut it down. stantly changing financial industry. Taoiseach Enda Kenny revealed that “The management should have been “But I think the more assertive and risk- he has pressed banking chief Mario removed,” he said. more security based system of prudential supervision Draghi to attend and answer questions that we now have in place has struck over its role in Ireland’s bank bailout. The governor, however, expressed sym- DUBLIN – Security for Taoiseach Enda Kenny, as well as the right balance and will help ensure pathy for the “people in the room” on senior cabinet ministers, has been tightened. that the banking system helps the eco- The ECB president had said that he the night the bank guarantee was nomic performance of Ireland, rather would not answer to national parlia- agreed. The move is in response to alleged threats against them in recent months. ments despite questions remaining over than causing the economic destruction The taoiseach has been advised to vary his route to and from government build- ings every day, while ministers will now have to give gardaí details of their weekly diaries. Extra measures could also be extended to some members of the gardaí, after it Thousands join water charge rallies emerged a female garda was followed to her home recently. Security for President Michael D. Higgins is also under review. The move comes as deadline to register closes in after video footage emerged of protesters heckling and swarming around a car carrying President Higgins as he left a school in Finglas. DUBLIN – Thousands of anti- Higgins (73) was called a “little midget parasite” and “traitor” as the group con- water charge protesters vened to protest his signing into law the Water Services Bill in December. brought town and city centres to a standstill in up to 20 na- tionwide demonstrations on January 31. Poverty is forcing some Events took place in Dublin, Cork, Lim- erick, Galway, Sligo and Waterford, with organisers claiming around 20,000 peo- Irish families into ple had participated in Dublin alone. An estimated crowd of about 3,500 took to the streets in Cork and in Limerick cutting heating costs protesters unfurled a banner which read DUBLIN – A cold snap is This figure is up from 25 percent in “We won’t pay” above the 13th Cen- 2012. tury King John’s Castle. forcing some Irish families THOUSANDS of anti-water charge protesters brought towns and SVP spokesman Brendan Hennessy The main march through the capital to decide between paying citis to a standstill in up to 20 nationwide demonstrations on Janu- said that while recent energy price re- caused traffic disruptions and there a bill or heating their home, ductions for Irish consumers are wel- were scuffles when a group of demon- ary 31. come, most consumers do not see the strators broke away and tried to gain says the Society of St. Vin- drop in international oil and gas costs entry to Leinster House. cent de Paul (SVP) char- being passed on fully. There were reports of pushing and shov- up for water bills just hours before the Sinn Fein’s Mary Lou McDonald said ity. “The Energy Regulator (CER) and gov- ing and a flare being fired, but gardai February 1 deadline. It also emerged ernment need to explain to consumers told reporters they were satisfied with the government had a deadline “that ap- The decision to either pay a bill or heat that no penalty will be imposed on parently wasn’t really a deadline. Irre- how and why this is the case,” he said. how the event had proceeded. their home is an increasing challenge householders who did not register in spective of when the deadline is, hun- “Now that CER no longer regulates time. being faced by more and more people The main actions were promoted by the dreds of thousands of people won’t reg- in Ireland as the weather worsens. prices, SVP believes they should use DublinSaysNo campaign, members of However, some water bills might be too ister and many, many more won’t pay their expertise to inform and protect which have been involved in some of high as a standard fee of EU260 will because they are simply not in a posi- SVP has urged people to watch out for customers. the more militant protests to have taken tion to pay,” she said. older neighbours in particular those who apply to those who did not confirm their “While consumers can seek to make place. details by the deadline. may be living without sufficient heat- Irish Water said 35,000 households had ing. savings by switching, this option is not One of the most outspoken members Penalties will kick in for those who have sent back their application packs either available to many people assisted by of the opposition group was recorded not paid by summer 2016, 15 months unopened or spoiled. The SVP, which spent over EU10m in SVP. at a school in Finglas over a week ago after the first bills arrive in April. 2013 to help people with their energy shouting insults at President Michael D. For those who do not register and who bills, highlighted recent figures which “This can be due to ongoing arrears is- Higgins over the water charges con- There will be a particular focus by Irish refuse to pay their bills, legislation will show that 30.8 percent of those living sues, lack of access to computers or be brought in later on this year. How- troversy. Water on rented accommodation in the below the income poverty line went the use of direct debit not suiting peo- coming weeks because of the low level ever, the sanctions for non-compliance without heating at some stage in the last ple on low income.” Meanwhile, 40,000 households signed of registrations by tenants. have not yet been revealed. year because they could not afford it. FEBRUARY 2015 www.celtic-connection.com PAGE 21 Kevin Vickers Begins New Job as Canada’s Ambassador to Ireland

UBLIN – Kevin Vickers formally presented his credentials to the President of Ireland Michael D. Higgins on January 21, starting a new chapter in his career as Canada’s am- D bassador to Ireland. Vickers begins his four-year term Referring to Vickers’ Irish heritage, as ambassador, assuming the role Flanagan added that “this ideal mix will serve Irish-Canadian relations very formerly held by Loyola Hearn. well.” The two men posed side-by-side at Áras During the meeting, the pair discussed an Uachtaráin, Ireland’s presidential a possible expansion of trade and tour- residence, with the 58-year-old ism relations. Ireland’s trade with Miramichi native towering over Higgins. Canada is currently valued at $3.9 bil- The photo-op prompted some on social lion CAD. media to offer witty commentary. Vickers’ appointment to the position was “Canada sends its Friendly Giant to Ire- announced by Prime Minister Stephen land to keep an eye on things,” quipped Harper who praised him for his “pro- one Twitter user. found leadership” and “outstanding service” to his country. Vickers got straight to work on his first day, meeting with Irish Foreign Affairs The former sergeant-at-arms responded Minister Charlie Flanagan. The two dis- to Harper’s remarks at the time by say- cussed trade relations between the two ing he was “humbled” by the opportu- nity, calling it an “honour.” countries, according to a news release. HONOUR guard outside Áras an Uachtaráin as Canadian Ambassador to Ireland Kevin Vickers Flanagan mentioned how thrilled he is His reputation at home was elevated to emerges with President Michael D. Higgins following the credential ceremony. to have Vickers in the position. hero status for his role in stopping a gunman inside Canada’s parliament on “He brings to this role both his close October 22. The 29-year RCMP vet- personal ties to Ireland and his long ex- eran was delivered a standing ovation perience of service to the Canadian in the House of Commons on the fol- people,” he said. lowing day for his courageous act. Group planning three national events to mark the centenary of the 1916 Rising DUBLIN – A citizen’s initiative which has the back- ing of artists, union members and academics says modern Ireland can be revitalised by the tenets of the 1916 Easter Rising. The initiative, ‘Reclaim the Vision Dubliner Robert Ballagh said the na- of 1916’, is planning three na- tional events are being planned, includ- tional events to mark the centenary ing a day of “mass mobilisation” on April 24, 2016 in response to what he de- of the Rising next year, including scribed as the “neglect of heritage” by a ‘National Parade of Celebration’ the government. to mark the anniversary and a na- Connolly-Heron criticised the fact that tional seminar due to take place Ireland does not have a public day to in spring 2016. acknowledge its independence from the The group is chaired by artist British monarchy. Robert Ballagh and has the back- “There’s a clouding of the debate that ing of playwright Brian Friel and it was just another event like the 1913 the great grandson of James lockout and can be celebrated by peo- Connolly, Jim Connolly-Heron. ple who are interested in that part of history, but it doesn’t have to be our The move comes after the Irish Gov- Bastille Day so there’s no sense of a ernment was heavily criticised for its national celebration. announcement about the 1916 com- “As a result there is no sense of the PHOTO: Courtesy of Dublin City Public Libraries memoration events in Ireland. sacrifice made to give us our nation,” THE RISING began on Easter Monday, April 24, 1916, and lasted for six days. Members of the Eugene McCartan, a member of the he added. Irish Volunteers – led by schoolmaster and Irish language activist Patrick Pearse, joined by the organising committee, said it was im- smaller Irish Citizen Army of James Connolly, along with 200 members of Cumann na mBan – When questioned if it would be appro- portant to the group that Irish people priate to have a member of the British seized key locations in Dublin and proclaimed the Irish Republic independent of the United took ownership of the celebration. monarchy in the review stand during the Kingdom. The rebel headquarters was the General Post Office (GPO) in Dublin. It is pictured “It is important to us that people take 2016 celebrations, both Ballagh and above in ruins following the 1916 Easter Rising. ownership, become involved and cel- Connolly agreed that it wouldn’t be “ap- ebrate 1916 in the most fitting way they propriate,” especially for the relatives the British Army would be singularly In Canada, Friends of Sinn Fein in “The events can be standard com- see possible at a local level...and to look of those who died during the Rising. inappropriate. Canada will be organizing events com- memorations, public lectures, poetry more deeply at the proclamation of 1916 memorating the Rising in Toronto, readings, theatrical productions, or con- “I think if you look to 1916 there is no “I would think if I were a relative of and to find a way forward,” he said. Brampton, Montreal, Calgary, Edmon- certs. relevance in relation to members of the those killed during the Rising, I would ton, and Halifax and invite other com- “We are not going to fossilize the com- British royal family being present for a be offended if a member of the family munities to stage some form of com- “You can organize the event under your memoration – we want the country to commemoration. was on the reviewing stand,” said memorative event in their area in 2016. own name, or work with us to present be re-inspired by the events of 1916 and Ballagh. an FOSF event. “In 1916 the people fighting were anti- Organizer Alan McConnell said, “FOSF see that as a way we can galvanise, imperialist who went out to fight the In Dublin, Sinn Fein has also launched “We hope you will do something. We revitalise and reinvigorate the three is available to help you with speakers British Army and to invite people from a programme of events to commemo- want to see the Irish in Canada mark kernel demands of 1916 – democracy, from Ireland, financing, literature and the British Royal Family who represent rate the upcoming Centenary of the promotional materials. the Rising in a big way next year.” independence and sovereignty,” he said. 1916 Rising. PAGE 22 www.celtic-connection.com FEBRUARY 2015 A life in conflict: How Peter Taylor gained the trust of paramilitaries the gable ends in Derry’s working class Bogside area: “Sinn Féin Touts.” Because Taylor has filmed in the North over such a lengthy period, he can use, and did use adeptly in this documen- tary, his old footage as a story-telling device. After showing testimonies to former terrorists turned politicians, or simply older heads looking back at their inglo- rious youth, Taylor seeks the views of his interviewees on how they conducted their lives. It is compelling to listen to some par- THE MIAMI Showband were one of Ireland’s most popular caba- VETERAN BBC television journalist Peter Taylor is widely per- ticipants express contrition on the one ret bands. Pictured above is the original line-up in 1972. ceived as a reliable interpreter of the North of Ireland after hand, and predictable yet disappointing decades covering the Troubles. He has recently produced a to observe politicians avoid facing the new BBC Northern Ireland documentary Who Won the War? full consequences of their past actions. Miami Showband killer in which he gives his assessment on who if anyone are the One of the sorrows of a depiction of winners in the conflict. Northern Ireland in recent decades is how little there is to admire in the politi- John Somerville dies Last year, the veteran BBC cal protagonists who now hold office. THE VIEW If Progressive Unionist Party leader television journalist, Pe- FROM IRELAND David Ervine had lived and had the in Belfast aged 71 ter Taylor, returned to chance to participate in a power-shar- BELFAST – A loyalist killer involved Northern Ireland, where ing arrangement, say for 10 years, it in one of the most infamous attacks of seems likely that his leadership would the Troubles has died at the age of 71. he has made dozens of have given Northern Ireland’s unionist community the stability it required. John Somerville was part of the Ulster documentaries about the Volunteer Force (UVF) terrorist gang Shortly before his death, Ervine stated – four of whom were in the Ulster De- Troubles. By that what he and his PUP colleagues fence Regiment (UDR) – that carried strove to do, which was made difficult His objective was to film a MAURICE out a massacre of Miami Showband FITZPATRICK by the continuation of the Ulster Vol- musicians on July 31, 1975. documentary about the North unteer Force’s massacres, was “an ex- ploration of the future.” On the night of the murders, the popu- A FORD ESCORT which was of Ireland in a more personal lar group had been driving back to the one of the cars used by loyal- style this time, as seen through His thinking was a necessary and highly Republic following a concert in ist gunmen, is left abandoned desirable manifestation of a new form Banbridge, Co. Down. four decades of his film-mak- of unionism capable of balancing the near the murder scene on July ing experience. North politically. They were travelling home to Dublin 31, 1975. when a fake army patrol made up of An Englishman by birth, Taylor became Standing at the hustings during his 1983 Ulster Defence Regiment soldiers and The other gunmen then opened fire on enthralled, in the late 1960s at the out- electoral success in West Belfast, Gerry Ulster Volunteer Force members set of his career, by the Northern Trou- tion since, with over 3,000 people dead, Adams proudly announced: “Tiocfaidh the band, murdering lead singer Fran stopped them at a bogus checkpoint O’Toole, guitarist Tony Geraghty, and bles in all its pity and terror, and stayed countless more maimed and psychologi- ár Lá” (Our day will come), a slogan outside Newry. with events in the North from that point cally scarred on all sides, what could as closely associated with the IRA and trumpeter Brian McCoy. Two other through to the Peace Process. possibly constitute a victory? its United Ireland objectives as “In God Band members were made to line up at band members, Des McAlea and We Trust” is with the U.S. dollar bill. the side of the road while attempts were Stephen Travers, were also injured but Others of his ilk tended to gain the lime- From a loyalist perspective, with the made to plant a bomb on the bus. The survived the atrocity. light in the North and travel back to structures now in place for a Northern Yet Adams, again in this documentary, device exploded prematurely, killing Alongside Thomas Crozier, Somerville England for a more sedate life once they majority to vote to secede from the denies ever being a member of the IRA. some of the would-be bombers. had made their names. United Kingdom, there is the loss of their was handed a life sentence for his part union guarantee: the status quo upon Martin McGuinness, who admits that It has been suggested that the plan had in the attack, which also claimed the Instead, Taylor stayed the course and which unionist politics traditionally fixed he was an IRA volunteer until 1974, can been for it to explode en route and kill life of his brother Wesley and fellow cut a compassionate figure, forming ex- its focus to avoid any constitutional re- be seen in archival footage chanting the band, who would be branded IRA UVF man Harris Boyle. traordinarily close relationships both with form is gone. “the IRA” in Derry’s Guildhall after bomb smugglers. senior figures in Northern politics and votes were counted in an election in the in the armed struggle, and with civilian The Republican side is more nuanced 1980s. victims of violence. in its response to the question of vic- tory. Electorally, even in the warped environ- He regularly met those people, listened ment of Northern Ireland, that position to them and responsibly gave them their Those who joined the IRA claimed a was difficult to sustain. Gerry Adams: voices through his documentaries; the mandate to fight for a United Ireland body of work he recorded constitutes and settled for an agreement that comes That is why John Hume outpolled an important source for an understand- far short of that. McGuinness again and again in Derry Enda Kenny’s ing of recent Northern Irish history. and, after his historic electoral success To use a phrase immortalised by in 1983, Adams failed to consistently As leading member of the BBC’s Pano- Michael Collins, the current accommo- hold his seat in West Belfast. handling of Northern rama team, Taylor had enormous influ- dation could be a “stepping stone” to- ence in conveying a fresh message wards that goal. During one of Taylor’s earliest visits to about the Northern crisis. Derry, John Hume pointed out Martin Ireland ‘incompetent’ Yet it should never be forgotten that McGuinness to him, saying that that was Panorama’s impact reverberates across such a deal was on the table, and signed a man to watch. BELFAST – Gerry Adams has slammed the Dublin Govern- the UK, Ireland and beyond: Its by British and Irish Governments, in viewership numbers more people than 1973. All these years later, Peter Taylor sur- ment as the “most incompetent ever” in dealing with North- the readership of all of English broad- mises that, with McGuinness having ern Ireland. sheet newspapers combined. The power-sharing Northern govern- embraced parliamentarianism, the shift ment established then was sabotaged towards a new politics is so profound The Sinn Fein president also launched a blistering attack on Taoiseach Thus Taylor came to be widely per- by, among others, people who today hold that there may indeed be, in some dis- Enda Kenny, who had criticised Adams’ stance during the Stormont ceived, in England especially, as a reli- high office in Ireland north and south. tant future, a United Ireland. able interpreter of the North of Ireland. House Agreement talks as “outrageous.” The vigour with which those who now If that means winning the war and if His particular strength is in illustrating have absorbed the concepts of that was, in the estimation of some peo- Less than a month after the agreement, Adams blasted Kenny’s administration the complexities of the situation and gradualism and accommodation, as they ple, worth the lives lost, then it never- as “the most deficient, inefficient and incompetent in dealing with the north.” steeling his audience against easy one- revise their original ambitions and deny theless must be conceded that consti- And he repeated his assertion that Dublin’s approach during the negotiations was sided formulations about the cause of self-evident facts about their own in- tutional politics ultimately succeeded “amateurish and hamfisted” and “little more than a charade.” and solution to the Troubles, keeping volvement in “the struggle” down the where violence failed. each of the protagonists – Republicans, years, is remarkable. Kenny told the Dail he wanted to take Adams “to task” for his attitude and said For a survey of the past two genera- Loyalists and the British – in focus. Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness “was quite prepared to make much Another Republican perspective is bit- tions in the North of Ireland, Peter The personal documentary he made last ter: we lost the war, our side betrayed Taylor’s book and film trilogy – Repub- more progress.” year, filming for four months in Belfast, the cause by agreeing to a power-shar- licans, Loyalists and Brits – all three Adams hit back, claiming, “As someone who has dealt with every Irish Govern- is entitled Who Won the War? ing arrangement in the state they vowed essential panels in the triptych, is an ment since Charlie Haughey’s time, including another Fine Gael Government, to dismantle. excellent place to start. Though it is a It is clear from the beginning that the this administration led by Mr. Kenny is the most deficient, inefficient and incom- galling picture to behold. title itself poses an unsatisfactory ques- Or, to adopt a slogan painted today on petent in dealing with the north.” FEBRUARY 2015 www.celtic-connection.com PAGE 23 Northern Ireland parties agree £2 billion deal to secure power-sharing

BELFAST – An agreement Stormont executive indicated that they Alliance “remains committed to hold- would be recommending that their mem- ing others to account for the promises was reached at the end of De- bership endorse the agreement, which they have made.” cember on a range of disputes has 75 sections dealing with a range of The South Belfast MP and SDLP leader that had undermined power- contentious issues left over from the peace process. Alasdair McDonnell said that the deal sharing in Northern Ireland, fell short of the comprehensive agree- The region may also be allowed to set ment they had wanted. following 11 weeks of discus- its own corporation tax rate – closer to sions. the level of the Irish Republic’s 12.5 McDonnell said it was disappointing that the agreement failed to include any percent rate. The deal announced in December has new inquiry into the 1989 murder of the resolved destabilising wrangles over the David Cameron said he was delighted Belfast lawyer Pat Finucane and a bill administration’s budget and its non-im- to see a deal reached. “This agreement of rights for Northern Ireland. plementation of welfare reforms while means the UK Government has been However, he said the SDLP would still establishing new structures to deal with able to offer a significant financial pack- back the agreement after consultations the legacy of unsolved killings during age that opens the way for more pros- THE POWERSHARING deal – which has been called the with the party’s membership and also the Troubles. perity, stability and economic security Stormont House Agreement – comes after 100 hours of formal for Northern Ireland,” he said. organisations representing victims of the But the difficult questions of flying flags talks between all parties and which First Minister Peter Troubles. and controversial, often banned, The parties in Stormont were close to Robinson described as “an exhausting period.” Ulster Unionist party leader, Mike marches have in effect been shelved triggering an election as the two main Nesbitt, said that while no party could with the creation of a special commis- forces in government – Sinn Fein and give the agreement 100 percent, he sion that will investigate individual lo- the Democratic Unionist party (DUP) could create 60,000 jobs and save the overcomes nationalist concerns by ena- would be recommending that his party calised issues such as a parade in North argued over welfare reforms. Unable peace process. bling the Executive to establish and fi- to set a budget last summer, the DUP nance its own top-up fund to support give the deal “a fair wind”. Belfast that has resulted in serious sec- Sinn Fein Deputy First Minister Martin threatened to pull down the government, those who will lose benefits when the tarian disorder. McGuinness said the deal had the po- The agreement does not mean that con- claiming the administration was not vi- policies are introduced. troversies such as the banned Orange The power-sharing government in Bel- tential to give the Executive a “fresh able. Order parade along Belfast’s Crumlin fast will be handed £2 billion to cushion start.” But the centrist Alliance party and the The Irish foreign minister, Charlie nationalist Social Democratic and La- Road have been solved. the impact of welfare reforms and cuts Flanked by party leader Gerry Adams, Flanagan, who co-chaired the talks with bour party (SDLP) each expressed over the next decade that the parties McGuinness hailed the fact that an Orangemen and their supporters have the Northern Ireland secretary, Theresa concerns over the details of the deal. finally agreed on. agreement had been reached on long organised a street camp since July 2013 Villiers, said that “in the bleak mid-win- standing issues of division between the The Alliance leader and justice minis- in protest against the march ban. The extra cash will also be used to fund ter” an agreement had been forged to region’s politicians. “I think it’s been a ter, David Ford, said that of the crea- a new institution to investigate the bring about “brighter days in Northern Protests against the ban in that year remarkable achievement,” he said tion of a commission to deal with con- legacy of the Troubles, the treatment Ireland.” triggered days of rioting and sectarian troversial marches “the can has been of victims from the conflict and the Significantly, the deal has found a reso- disorder along one of the most danger- First minister and DUP leader Peter kicked down the road again.” thousands of unsolved crimes from 1969 lution to the thorny and long running ous “sectarian interface areas” be- Robinson calls the deal “monumental” onwards. impasse over welfare reform imple- But Ford said his party would still back tween the Protestant Shankill/Woodvale with cash to ease welfare reforms that areas and the Catholic Ardoyne. All of the five main parties in the mentation in the region. Essentially, it the broader agreement, adding that the Aer Lingus considering takeover bid from BA owner IAG DUBLIN – Aer Lingus is considering a £1 billion can Airlines, taking advantage of Dub- lin’s geographic position. takeover bid from International Airlines Group (IAG) The prospect of a sale is a political – the parent company of British Airways and Iberia mindfield for the government with an election within a year and a series of Airlines. Labour Party members – the junior party in coalition – set against a sale AER LINGUS mulls takeover offer from International Airlines The Aer Lingus board said it Protecting Ireland’s air links with Eu- unless they see cast iron guarantees on Group (IAG) – the parent company of British Airways and Ibe- rope and the U.S. are vitally important connectivity and jobs. was prepared to accept a in terms of inward investment, exports, ria Airlines. sweetened offer worth 2.55 business and tourism. Currently, Aer Lingus directly employs diaspora, yet only a fraction of its trans- 3,900 people, mostly in Dublin, with euros (£1.90) a share from Furthermore, Irish TDs and senators atlantic traffic – did not bode well for 2,100 of these described as ground staff “We’ve highlighted Ireland in the event of a takeover. IAG, although progress now were warned that any guarantees de- in areas such as clerical, operative and hinges on major shareholders manded in the event of a deal would be back office roles. a substantial risk Matt Staunton, of trade union IMPACT, simply worthless as soon as the gov- which represents pilots, cabin crew and the Irish Government and There are also fears over what a sale ernment gave up its stake in the national of job losses at ground staff at Aer Lingus, said the Ryanair. flag carrier. would do to the airline’s presence in acquisition would result in up to 1,200 Cork and Shannon. jobs slashed in Ireland, while posing sig- The government which holds a 25 per- Aer Lingus is the fourth busiest opera- Aer Lingus if it’s tor at London’s Heathrow behind Brit- The trade union SIPTU, which repre- nificant risks to the country’s business cent stake in Aer Lingus wants reas- and tourism. surances over the key Dublin to ish Airways, Lufthansa and Virgin At- sents more than 50 percent of the work- acquired by IAG.” Heathrow route. lantic. ers at Aer Lingus, called for the sale to Staunton told the hearing IAG’s prior- be blocked unless they get guarantees. ity would always be its own commer- In a bid to ratchet up pressure on the Aer Lingus is more profitable than IAG, Union leaders representing thousands cial interests over Ireland’s national in- government, IAG has now offered of a Captain Evan Cullen, president of Irish on a like for like basis, has among the of staff at the Dublin-based airliner said terest. the proposed deal would leave the coun- five-year guarantee on the crucial Airline Pilots Association, which rep- youngest fleets in Europe, the best try’s crucial air links to the U.S. and Heathrow slots. resents 500 Aer Lingus pilots and owns agreements with air alliances, and one “What really stands out in the statement a seven percent share in the airline, said the UK in the hands of a London board- Willie Walsh, head of IAG, also com- of the best hedged fuel contracts in by IAG is the complete absence of any room. management had a conflict of interest Europe, according to Cullen. reference to jobs,” he said. mitted to keep the Irish flag carrier as they stand to make a windfall from The Oireachtas (parliament) Joint Com- headquartered in Dublin and an agree- any sale. The only benefit to Aer Lingus of a “We’ve highlighted a substantial risk of mittee on Transport hearing into the pro- ment never to sell its landing rights at takeover would be better prices in buy- job losses at Aer Lingus if it’s acquired posed takeover heard Aer Lingus has the London airport. He said there was no other reason to ing new aircraft, but a strategic agree- by IAG. There’s nothing in IAG’s state- 23 prime-time and two seasonal slots sell a growing and profitable airline, “Aer ment with Etihad Airways on combined ment that lessens our concerns about IAG said it plans to operate Aer Lingus Lingus does not need IAG, IAG needs at Heathrow, which IAG would be bet- as a separate business with its own orders has already taken care of this, Aer Lingus jobs.” Aer Lingus – that is a fact,” he said. he said. ter off using for lucrative transatlantic brand and management and to continue Staunton said trade unions, chambers routes rather than flights to Ireland. to provide connectivity to Ireland, while Cullen said there would be an “incred- He also suspects IAG would be forced of commerce, the tourism industry and Within just a few years, IAG could scrap allowing it to benefit from being part of ible amount of financial gain” to a small to sell off or mortgage Aer Lingus as- multinationals trading in Ireland have all routes in and out in Ireland and use Aer the larger airline group. number of managers involved in a sets to pay for the takeover. voiced their opposition to the takeover. takeover that would have huge benefits Lingus’ much sought after Heathrow It said Aer Lingus would be part of the Cullen said British Airways’ “neglect” A parliamentary committee in Dublin slots for more lucrative long-haul flights, for IAG to the disadvantage of the Oneworld Airline Alliance that it oper- country. of Scotland – which has a bigger popu- will continue to explore the potential it was claimed. ates over the North Atlantic with Ameri- lation than Ireland and a similar sized fallout if the takeover goes ahead. PAGE 24 www.celtic-connection.com FEBRUARY 2015 SEATTLE IRISH NEWS

RECENT PASSINGS Join us for the Happy Hour Event • Harold Douglas (96), a native of at F X McRory’s on Friday, Febru- Belfast, died in Seattle on January ary 20, 3-6 PM, to be part of the 29. Irish community team and to receive • Michael X. Nolan (84), a longtime the Irish team discount pricing! proud member of the Irish Heritage Additionally, everyone who signs up Club, died in Seattle on January 16. will receive a $5 coupon good at By • Patricia Kuecker (79), a native of FX McRory’s during the evening’s JOHN Happy Hour, along with a VIP wrist- Dublin, died in Puyallup on Janu- KEANE ary 3. band for quicker access to the Dash Day beer garden at the Seattle • Sister Anna Rourke, CSJP, a na- about 15 years. Center Fisher Pavilion. tive of Co. Leitrim, died in Bellevue He is still involved in the Irish commu- on December 24. You can also pick up your bib and CATHRYN AND DANNY Quinn are Honorary Grand Marshals nity as an officer and past president of long-sleeve Dash T-shirt, so all you of Seattle’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade on March 14. • Eva Salazar (66), the sister and the Friends of St. Patrick in Seattle. have to do on Sunday, March 15 is sister-in-law of Eloise and Jim Over the years, they have been faithful get to the start line. Cummins of Kennewick, died in members and supporters of anything Puyallup on December 23. CELTIC HARP CLASSES – A new Irish and their three children grew up en- five week term of beginning and in- • Michael O’Sullivan, 90, whose fa- joying parades, picnics and other Irish termediate Celtic Harp classes start ther was from Co. Cork, died in community events and activities, includ- Monday, February 23 in Seattle, Seattle on December 23. ing Irish dancing and Gaelic football. and Tuesday, February 24 in • Julie Ann (Dennehy) Brown, 82, Now their grandchildren are also learn- Olalla. whose parents were from Co. Kerry, ing pride in their heritage. Congratula- Organized by the School of Magi- died in Tacoma on December 21. tions to Danny and Cathryn on a well- cal Strings, the Seattle classes are deserved honor. IRISH WEEK 2015 held on Capitol Hill at 1655 - 10th EVENTS IN SEATTLE IRISH AUTHOR – To mark the 150th an- Avenue E. For more information, • Saturday, February 28 niversary of the birth of WB Yeats, Irish visit www.magicalstrings.com. – Irish soda bread cooking exhibi- author and writer Carmel Kelly is IRISH BASKETBALL – Free tickets tion / class. traveling from Ireland to Seattle this to Irish Night at Seattle University March to give talks on Yeats during the • Saturday, March 7 basketball at Key Arena are avail- Irish Festival at the Seattle Center. – Irish soda bread contest. able on Saturday, February 28 with Carmel has a BA H.Dip LIS History and game time at 7:30 PM vs. • Sunday, March 8 Women’s Studies from University Col- Bakersfield. – Matt Talbot dinner lege Dublin and is currently with the Dún Your friends and family are wel- • Friday, March 13 Laoghaire Rathdown Library Service. come to attend and all for free. To – St. Patrick’s Day Mass for Peace, She writes for children in both Irish and reserve your tickets, email your 10 AM English, tours schools, libraries and name and the number of tickets – Mayor’s Irish Week Proclamation book festivals around Ireland giving read- needed to [email protected] Luncheon, Noon ings and writing workshops, and reviews or call (425) 290-7839. – Pirate’s Landing of St. Patrick at JUSTIN AND NATALIA McMahon with the soda bread loaves books for Childrens Books Ireland. they baked at the 2014 soda bread class. This year’s soda South Lake Union Tickets may be picked up any of the bread class will be held Saturday, February 28, at St. Patrick’s –Green Stripe Laying on 4th Avenue PARADE INVITES – Seattle’s St. days prior to game time at T S Patrick’s Day parade committee invites McHugh’s, First and Mercer. Church Hall. • Saturday, March 14 interested groups to apply to march and/ – Irish Flag-Raising LONDON IRISH – The London Irish or perform in the St. Patrick’s Day pa- – St. Patrick’s Day Parade on 4th Av (www.london-irish.com) rugby foot- rade on Saturday, March 14. enue, 12:30 PM ball team will be in Seattle in May – Irish Week Festival, Noon - 6 PM The parade is a family-friendly event for some games versus the Seattle – Mayor of Galway Cocktail Reception which celebrates the Irish in us all. For Saracens rugby football team. more information, visit • Sunday, March 15 LIRF is one of London’s most fa- www.irishclub.org. – St. Patrick’s Day Dash, 8:30 AM mous clubs, founded in 1898 by a – Irish Week Festival, 10 AM - 6 PM SEAN-NÓS FESTIVAL – The 8th Annual group of Irishmen who formed their – Irish Community Happy Hour, 5 PM Sean-nós Northwest Festival is Febru- own club for expatriate Irish. – Friends of St. Patrick Banquet, 6:30 ary 14-15 at The Evergreen State Col- Even though many of their players PM lege in Olympia. today may have little to no Irish con- • Saturday, March 21 – Irish Geneal The festival offers two days of workshops nections, the club plays in green ogy Workshop, 9 AM – 5 PM on traditional sean-nós singing and set and white colors, and their mascot dancing, Irish language, music, and cul- is an Irish Wolfhound called Digger. For all the details, visit ture. No prior experience is needed. The team competes in the top divi- www.irishweek.org or call (253) 237- sion of English rugby union, the 2811. Adult registration costs from $40-$110. Aviva Premiership. More details Detailed information, including sched- GRAND MARSHALS – Seattle’s St. later. ules, instructor bios, and online regis- Patrick’s Day Parade Committee has tration, are available at LANGUAGE TEACHERS – The announced that Danny and Cathryn www.seannos.org. North American Association of Quinn are the Honorary Grand Marshals Celtic Language Teachers hold of the 2015 St. Patrick’s Day Parade. GAA ONLINE – Watch GAA games their 21st annual Conference in (Gaelic football, hurling and camogie) live Despite growing up in Co. Down about Portland, OR, from June 4-6 at Port- from Ireland on your computer for 160 20 miles from each other, Danny Quinn land State University. (about $180) for a season pass, over 100 and Cathryn McPolin didn’t meet until games total, by signing up for GAAGO This year’s theme “Celtic Lan- 1968 at an Irish party in Canada in To- at www.gaago.ie. guages: From the Viking Age to ronto, Ontario. Modern Times” will explore the ef- If you sign up by February 20, use code A year later they were married in New fects of the Viking ‘invasions’ of the SGUS001 and the Seattle Gaels will re- York and in 1975 moved to the Seattle Celtic Nations beginning in the ceive a credit valued at $20 for each area and settled in Edmonds. Eighth Century. pass purchased. Since arriving in Seattle 30 years ago, The Association is a non-profit pro- Any GAA game shown live on television Danny and Cathryn have been heavily fessional organization whose goal in Ireland is available to watch on your involved in Seattle’s Irish community. is to bring together Celtic language computer using this service and the first teachers and researchers in In the late Seventies and early Eighties, games of the season were shown start- Canada and the United States and Cathryn served as secretary of the Irish ing the weekend of January 31. to foster contacts with others who Festivities Committee, the precursor to DASH PARTY – Irish Network are interested in promoting the the Irish Heritage Club which then or- Seattle, the Seattle Gaels and the teaching and learning of Celtic lan- FORMER SEATTLE Deputy Mayor Tom Keefe, a/k/a St. Patrick, ganized the St. Patrick’s Day parade Irish Heritage Club have arranged guages in North America. For more and Irish Week Proclamation Luncheon. with U.S. National Boxing Champion Queen Underwood who a St. Patrick’s Day Dash sign-up details, visit www.naaclt.org. boxed for the USA in the 2012 Olympics. St. Patrick and body- Danny was one of the original founders party with special discount pricing guard Underwood will be in Seattle for the March 13 Seafair of the Seattle Gaels in 1979, and he also not available online. [Continued next page....] Pirates Landing of St. Patrick at south Lake Union. played Gaelic football on the team for FEBRUARY 2015 www.celtic-connection.com PAGE 25 SEATTLE IRISH NEWS Fire Up the Oven SEATTLE STARTUP – Congratula- “Students hear the music all week tions to Dubliner Mal Jones who long, played by the teaching staff was one of the judges at the recent and by fellow students. and Get Out the Apron Euro Seattle Startup weekend “They participate in sessions, at- where budding entrepreneurs tend classes, hear talks by the SLÁINTE – TO YOUR pitched their startup ideas and re- teachers giving a wider context and ceived feedback from their peers. GOOD HEALTH! historical background to the music. Teams which formed around the top “By the end of the week, students dozen ideas (as determined by come away with some new tunes popular vote) then embarked on a and a much deepened sense of how 54 hour frenzy of business model the music feels and sounds, as well creation, coding, designing, and as advice on technique from excel- market validation. lent musicians. All that plus a week By The weekend culminated with pres- of great fun with great people!” MAUREEN entations in front of local entrepre- KEANE Information and registration details neurial leaders along with critical can be found at www.cascadia feedback, and the possibility of be- irish.org. ing recognized as a promising new URPRISE your venture! See www.euroseattle. MISCELLANEOUS family this St. kaline) must be just enough to balance ing powder, your dough now contains startupweekend.org for details. • Bremerton’s St. Patrick’s Day Pa- Patrick’s Day the acidic ingredient (buttermilk). too much acid which reduces the amount rade is Saturday, March 14 at 10 of carbon dioxide gas produced. IRISH MUSIC WEEK – Registration with some au- Too much soda and the bread will taste AM starting from 6th & Pacific. Con- is now open for Cascadia Irish Mu- Sthentic Irish bitter and “soapy” or be too dry. Use flour and not self-rising flour. The tact Tim Ryan at (360) 779-7667 for sic Week 2015 from July 19-25 at latter contains more baking powder. details. soda bread. Too much or too little acid and the bread The Evergreen State College in Ol- will be too dense. Use buttermilk or sour milk and not just ympia. • Seattle’s next Irish Book Club Between now and the big day, practice plain milk. After combining the dry ingredients ei- meeting is Tuesday, March 24. For your basic baking skills so you impress Program director Randal Bays says ther sift them together or whisk the soda With no acid in the dough, the soda is details, e-mail [email protected]. all with your ability to produce the per- and salt into the flour. not activated and no carbon dioxide is fect loaf with confidence and ease. produced. Unevenly distributed soda is the cause Learning how to bake soda bread will of dark streaks in the bread. You can sour your own milk by adding also teach you a few basic baking skills. one tablespoon of lemon juice to two Lumpy soda means less soda is avail- Here in Seattle, we have our annual cups of milk. able for carbon dioxide production caus- soda bread baking contest. Sláinte ing too dense a loaf and who wants to Once you have the basic recipe down, would love to see some of her readers bite into lumps of baking soda? Mix! you can start to try other more compli- enter the contest this year. cated ones. 4) But do not mix or handle the dough Contestants are limited to four ingredi- for too long. An example of a basic soda bread ents: wheat flour, soda, salt, and sour recipe is this one from The Ballymaloe milk. Mix the ingredients gently and just long Bread Book by Tim Allen: enough to form a dough and immedi- You would think that with everyone us- ately put the loaf into the oven. 3 ¼ cups unbleached white flour ing the same ingredients and most us- 1 level teaspoon baking soda ing the same recipe, that the breads in Baking soda starts to react and release 1 level teaspoon salt the soda bread contest would all taste its gas as soon as it comes into contact 14 oz. buttermilk the same. Sláinte wishes! with the sour milk. For more information on how to trans- A LIVELY CROWD attended the Irish Women’s Christmas dinner Here are the top five most important Handle the dough too much and the gas form these ingredients into soda bread, on January 11 at F X McRory’s in Seattle. (L-R) Josephine Melly, things to remember in baking soda will escape before the bread is baked. go to Maureen Keane’s website at Karen Doran, Sharon Gillin, Niki Thornton Walsh, Marisa bread. Westphall, Liz Shorten and Dolores Doherty with Mike McQauid The whole purpose of kneading bread KeaneNutriton.com. 1) For best results use a low protein dough is to form a network of gluten To read about the history of soda bread at rear right. (soft) wheat flour. Pastry flour, used to fibers for yeasted breads. try these sites: www.sodabread.info/ make cakes, is also low protein. A 1955 LETTER signed by then-Sena- When yeast is not used to produce car- history or tor John F. Kennedy will be among If you can’t find these flours, your next bon dioxide, the gluten only makes the www.europeancuisines.com/Peters- best choice is unbleached all-purpose bread tough and chewy. Mums-Soda-Bread-Recipe. the items auctioned at the Friends of flour which is a combination of low and th Sláinte’s favorite meal in Ireland is still St. Patrick 75 Anniversary banquet high protein flours. 5) Use the correct ingredients. on Sunday, March 15, at the Knights tea, bread (soda), and butter. Avoid flours marked as hard wheat or Use baking soda, also called sodium • of Columbus in Seattle. The Friends winter wheat; they are high in protein bicarbonate or bread soda, and not bak- Maureen Keane MS CN is the author were founded in Seattle in 1941 and and therefore high in gluten. ing powder which is a combination of of 14 books on health and diet and a guests at the Diamond Jubilee Ban- soda and an acid (usually cream of tar- member of the Academy of Nutrition Gluten is the protein that traps the gas tar). and Dietetics. Read her blog at quet will include Seattle Mayor Ed generated by yeast in yeasted breads. keanenutrition.com. Murray, Galway Mayor Donal Lyons, When you use both sour milk and bak- However, since soda bread doesn’t use and Washington Lt. Governor Brad yeast as a leavening agent, gluten only Owens. makes soda bread tough and chewy in- stead of tender. Also avoid flours marked “best for bread” or “bread flour,” they are high protein and meant for yeasted breads. Avoid all-purpose flour which contains baking powder. 2) Use the freshest ingredients you can find. Don’t even think about using soda from that box of baking soda in the back of the fridge. Yes, Sláinte knows it’s never been used but it’s not fresh either. To test your baking soda’s effective- ness, mix a quarter teaspoon soda with two teaspoons of vinegar or lemon juice. The mixture should fizz immediately. Flour should be fresh too. Buy from a local mill rather than using a dusty bag from a convenience store. 3) Measure and thoroughly mix ingre- dients. Making soda bread is a food chemistry experiment. The amount of sodium bicarbonate (al- PAGE 26 www.celtic-connection.com FEBRUARY 2015 20 years since disappearance of Manic Street Preacher musician CARDIFF – It is now 20 years since Welsh musician Richey Edwards of the Manic Street Preachers mysteriously disappeared just prior to em- barking on a North American THE LUXURY Cromlix House hotel near Dunblane, where ten- tour. nis star Andy Murray and fiancee Kim Sears are to marry on April 11. He was known for his politicized and intellectual songwriting which, combined with an enigmatic and Date set for Andy Murray eloquent character, has assured him cult status, and he is frequently cited as one of the best lyricists and Kim Sears wedding of all time. RACHEL ELIAS has spoken about the pain her family has suf- fered following the 1995 disappearance of her brother Richey DUNBLANE, Scotland – Edwards disappeared on February 1, Tennis star Andy Murray is to 1995 and was declared presumed de- Edwards of the Manic Street Preachers. ceased in November 2008. marry his fiancee Kim Sears hall Cavalier was found in South the same hell as her would be met with The ninth album by Manic Street Gloucestershire, however days and fewer barriers. on April 11, it has been con- Preachers, Journal for Plague Lov- months passed with no real progress on firmed. ers, which was released on May 18, his whereabouts. “Things have definitely improved. Peo- 2009, is composed entirely of lyrics left ple have family liaison officers now and The wedding will take place at Murray’s behind by Edwards. Already emotionally exhausted by what improvements have also been made in Cromlix House hotel, close to his home had happened, his family said they were the way the police communicate with town of Dunblane in central Scotland. Much has been made about his sudden left further drained by the ordeal to families of missing people,” Elias added. disappearance – which came against a come. The couple, who have been together for backdrop of personal turmoil. As well as promoting the charity Miss- about 10 years, got engaged last No- Elias said, “He was reported missing in ing People, which helped her family so vember. In 1994, Manic Street Preachers re- Paddington Green Police Station be- much, she has also campaigned for ANDY MURRAY and his fian- leased their third album and dark mas- cause the hotel was nearby, yet his car changes in the law to those seeking to Murray, a former Wimbledon and U.S. terpiece The Holy Bible. was found near the Severn Bridge have their relative declared presumed Open champion, bought Cromlix House cee Kim Sears have an- which involved Avon and Somerset dead when a body has not been found. for £1.8 million in 2013. It has since un- nounced a wedding date after With 70 percent of the words written Police and at some point he had returned dergone a major refurbishment pro- 10 years. by Edwards, a man who once famously to his flat in Cardiff which involved Elias wants people to remember her gramme. carved the words “4 Real” into his arm brother as a brilliant writer than a mere South Wales Police. The former country house has been con- The date of the wedding was confirmed in response to a journalist who ques- tragic figure of ‘cult of Richey’ carica- just days after Murray lost to Novak tioned his band’s integrity, many sought “Then there were the false gossip and ture. verted into a 15-room luxury hotel, which has its own 30-seat chapel and a Djokovic in the final of the Australian to draw parallels between his state of rumours to deal with. Open. mind and songs on subjects such as “The fact that he was really intelligent restaurant overseen by legendary prostitution, anorexia and the horrors of “‘People said all sorts of things in the and sensitive and that he was the force French chef Albert Roux. Murray joked during an on-court inter- the Holocaust. initial stages – that he was hiding out at behind the band their lyrics just seems view at the tournament that he might a fan’s house or that we knew where to get forgotten. We’ve always been It was named Scottish hotel of the year last year, just weeks after reopening its wear a kilt with no underwear at the In the run up to the LP’s release, he was. It was just totally fabricated,” tremendously proud of Richard. wedding. Edwards was admitted to Whitchurch said Elias. doors to guests. “He always excelled at whatever he did Psychiatric Hospital in Cardiff before In 2010, Cromlix hosted the wedding Sears was caught on camera apparently being checked into the Priory Clinic as “That hampered the police’s involve- at whether that was at school, college swearing during her fiance’s semi-final ment, they had to explore statements and university or with the band. between Murray’s tennis-playing older his alcoholism and self-harming spiralled brother, Jamie, and Alejandra Gutierrez, victory over Tomas Berdych, prompt- out-of-control. like that rather than just be focused on ing comments on social media. the investigation.” “I suppose his legacy lives on in a way at which Andy acted as best man. Less than two months on from smash- through the songs he wrote for the band She laughed off the incident by wear- However, Edwards’ sister refused to – but his work is often set against the Murray and Sears, who are both 27, are ing his guitar to smithereens at a sold understood to be planning a private ing a “Parental Advisory - Explicit Con- out London show in Christmas, a now give in – tirelessly campaigning and backdrop of his disappearance and his tent” T-shirt during the final. working so other families going through problems.” wedding at Cromlix, with no magazine shaven haired Edwards appeared to be deals and only close friends and family Sussex-born Sears, who is the daugh- on the mend. present. ter of former Lawn Tennis Association As well as writing lyrics for new Manic In a characteristically solemn remark head of women’s tennis Nigel Sears, Street Preachers songs, the ever-pro- on his Twitter account, he said, “This is met Murray at the U.S. Open in 2005. fessional and punctual university gradu- Royals decline gay not news,” although it was not imme- She was once described by future ate prepared for an upcoming promo- diately clear whether he was referring mother-in-law Judy Murray as “the best tional tour of the U.S. to media reports of his wedding date. thing to happen to Andy.” He and his band’s singer James Dean marriage campaign Bradfield checked into London’s Em- bassy Hotel ahead of a flight across the LONDON – The Duke and The letter states, “The UK’s homopho- Atlantic the next day. But the following bic laws made the lives of generations morning when Bradfield went to rouse Duchess of Cambridge have of gay and bisexual men intolerable. his bandmate, no answer came from declined to get involved in a room 516. “It is up to young leaders of today, in- campaign to pardon tens of cluding the Duke and Duchess of Cam- When hotel staff opened up the room, thousands of gay men con- bridge, to acknowledge this mark on they found the room empty – save for our history and not allow it to stand. a handful of personal items. victed alongside codebreaker Alan Turing whose story was “We call upon Her Majesty’s govern- His sister Rachel Elias said that imme- ment to begin a discussion about the diately sent alarm bells ringing. told in the film The Imitation possibility of pardoning all the men, alive “Despite what people may think, his dis- Game. or deceased, who like Alan Turing were convicted.” appearance really was out of charac- Benedict Cumberbatch and ter for him. He was always constantly Turing led efforts to crack the Nazi there, if not physically, in conversation Stephen Fry are among the high Enigma code and was hailed by Winston with you,” she added. profile campaigners who signed Churchill as the person who “made the an open letter asking William and “Even when he was touring, we always single biggest contribution to the allied PHOTO: Allstar/Black Bear Pictures/Sportsphoto Ltd. knew where he was. The idea he was Kate to support the campaign. victory in World War II.” BENEDICT CUMBERBATCH in his role as Alan Turing in The acting out and walked off as to say ‘I’m In a letter to the British Government He was convicted of gross indecency Imitation Game. not getting on this flight’ was not him. and published in The Guardian, cam- in 1952 and was chemically castrated. “He was always passionate and pro- paigners call for the royal family to act He took his own life in 1954. and convince the government to par- The letter continues, “Turing was one Turing was one of 49,000 men convicted fessional about the band. He had never Turing was given an official apology by th don all those convicted under the out- of the greatest heroes of the 20 cen- of indecency under laws banning gay done anything like this before.” the British Government in 2009, when dated law. tury, a man whose work on the ma- sex. He admitted in court he had formed The days that followed were pure agony the then prime minister, Gordon Brown, chines that deciphered the Enigma a relationship with a friend, Arnold for the family as well as his bandmates A pardon could wipe clean the records spoke of the “appalling treatment” he codes helped win World War II and who Murray, and was offered a choice be- – who were all childhood friends. of 49,000 other men prosecuted be- had been subjected to. Four years later, was pivotal in the development of mod- tween a prison term or undergoing a cause of their sexuality, including 15,000 the Queen granted him an official par- ern computers.” course of drug treatments aimed at con- Eventually his abandoned silver Vaux- still alive today. don. trolling his libido. FEBRUARY 2015 www.celtic-connection.com PAGE 27 Guinness kidnapper Pope orders bishops to cooperate dies after heart attack DUBLIN – A criminal who with sex abuse commission was involved in one of the highest profile kidnappings in VATICAN CITY – Pope the Republic’s history died Francis has ordered Roman suddenly on January 6 this Catholic bishops around the year. world to fully cooperate with a commission he set up to pro- Michael Cunningham (65) is un- tect children from sexual derstood to have suffered a mas- abuse by clerics and to give sive heart attack at his home in Ballyfermot, West Dublin. the issue top priority even if it unearths new scandals. In 1986, along with his younger brother John Cunningham, who is nicknamed The pope sent the letter to the bishops the ‘Colonel’, Michael gained notori- and heads of religious institutions a day ety for the kidnapping of Jennifer Guin- before the commission, which he es- ness. Her husband John was then the JENNIFER GUINNESS was tablished last year, was due to hold its first full meeting on February 5. millionaire chairman of the Guinness rescued on the morning of April Mahon Bank in Dublin. 17, 1986 following an eight-day In the letter, the pope says, “Everything POPE FRANCIS talks during his Wednesday general audi- kidnapping ordeal. possible must be done to rid the Church ence in Paul VI hall at the Vatican. The Cunninghams were arrested with of the scourge of the sexual abuse of associate Anthony Kelly after gardai ministry for those who abuse minors,” lic Church has been hit by scandal in- now-defunct Special Task Force and minors and to open pathways of recon- surrounded a house in Waterloo Road ciliation and healing for those who were he said. volving the sexual abuse of children by in south Dublin eight days after Guin- Central Detective Unit. priests around the world in the past 15 abused.” One of the members of the commis- ness had been abducted at gunpoint in Michael Cunningham was jailed for 14 years. her home in Howth. “Families need to know that the Church sion, Marie Collins of Ireland, herself a years while his brother John, the mas- victim of sexual abuse, said that com- Since his election in March, 2013, termind behind the plot, was jailed for is making every effort to protect their For eight days they held Guinness in five children ...priority must not be given to mission members had asked the pope Francis has several times vowed zero different locations. At times she was 17 years. Kelly, who died in 2005, also to write a letter to thwart any resist- tolerance for offenders but victims of received 14 years. any other kind of concern, whatever its made to travel in the boot of a car and nature, such as the desire to avoid scan- ance from bishops to its work. abuse want him to do more and make in a cardboard box. She was chained to bishops who allegedly covered up the The brothers, who were originally from dal, since there is absolutely no place in The 1.2 billion member Roman Catho- a tree and to a bed and at one stage Ballyfermot, had cut their teeth operat- abuse accountable. was handcuffed to one of her captors. ing with key figures in the Dublin un- The gang, armed with handguns and gre- derworld. nades, claimed to be members of the They had also been involved in armed republican movement and demanded a robberies in Dublin and in the north of Magna Carta copies multi-million pound ransom for her safe England. return. At the time of their arrest in April 1986, However, a specialist garda unit tracked the Cunninghams and Kelly were brought together the kidnappers down to a safe house in wanted for questioning by police in Dublin’s upmarket Waterloo Road. The Leeds in connection with the murder LONDON – The four original surviv- the king and his subjects. gang gave themselves up after a tense ing copies of the Magna Carta have two years earlier of Sergeant John Thus the original Magna Carta, 3,500 stand-off with armed members of the Speed. been brought together under the same roof for the first time. words in Latin on a calfskin parchment, came into being, its enduring relevance The document – one of the first steps confirmed in the many legal cases in in the journey towards parliamentary which it is cited today. Foreign law enforcement PSNI pursuing democracy – will go on show at The British Library in central London as part In a joint statement, the library and the cathedrals said, “King John could surely loyalist’s of its 800th anniversary. agencies allowed never have anticipated the enduring glo- More than 40,000 people entered a pub- bal legacy of Magna Carta when he Boston lic ballot for the chance to see them with agreed to its terms in 1215. to tap Irish calls 1,215 winning the opportunity to visit the College tapes display. “Eight hundred years later, the interna- DUBLIN – Foreign law enforcement an intercept order could be brought be- tional interest and excitement about this BELFAST– Northern Ireland Police agencies will be sanctioned to tap Irish fore a private court. The Irish Times The documents will be at the library for unification event is testament to the are seeking interviews a former loyal- calls and emails under a new statutory reports that the tapping can only be used three days before they are taken to the extraordinary significance and symbolic ist prisoner gave to a U.S. university instrument signed into law by Justice in cases where an investigation is House of Lords for another day, before power of these four manuscripts,” reads project as part of investigations into Minister Frances Fitzgerald last year. underway and cannot be used at ran- two are returned to the library and the the statement. murder, attempted murder and robbery, Companies who refuse to comply with dom. others go back to their homes at Lin- the High Court heard. coln and Salisbury Cathedrals. “We are thrilled to be staging this mo- ment in history together, as partners, at A judge was told the force requires On June 15, 1215 an embattled King the start of the 800th anniversary year. tapes of Winston “Winkie” Rea’s ac- John met the English barons who had For each of our institutions, this unique count to Boston College in order to meet backed his failed war against the French event marks the beginning of our own its legal duty to probe serious crimes. and were seeking to limit his powers. celebrations in 2015. Rea has issued proceedings in a bid to The weakened monarch had little choice “The British Library, Lincoln Cathedral stop the PSNI obtaining the material. Taoiseach rules out but to witness the sealing of what some and Salisbury Cathedral will all be stag- His lawyers argue a handover would say is the world’s most important docu- ing exhibitions and events later this year be an unlawful intrusion on his privacy, ment, one that, symbolically at least, to mark the 800th anniversary of the based on no evidence of any wrongdo- established a new relationship between sealing of this iconic document.” Sinn Fein coalition ing on his part. DUBLIN – Taoiseach Enda Kenny has categorically ruled Last month he secured a temporary in- out coalition with Fianna Fail or Sinn Fein after the next junction as police were set to board a election in the Republic. plane for America to get the tapes. He was among dozens of loyalists and In his strongest rebuke yet to the idea of going into power with Fianna Fail, republicans who provided testimonies Kenny said he could see no circumstances where the party “should be given the to researchers compiling an oral history opportunity to get back into the driving seat of government.” of the Troubles, on the understanding “I do not want to see this country handed back to those that wrecked it,” he told they would be released only after they RTE’s This Week. died. Speaking about Sinn Fein, he said they were nothing more than “a protest party” In 2013, detectives investigating the that it did not want to be in government. murder of Jean McConville secured the transcripts of former IRA woman Do- Kenny gave some consideration to the idea of Fine Gael/Labour/Independents lours Price. after the next election, adding that he had heard a number of “constructive sug- gestions” from independents. Rea, a son-in-law of the late UVF leader Gusty Spence, is now seeking to PHOTO: Universal History Archive/Un/REX Still, he said that Fine Gael would be putting up a “strong fight” in the next judicially review the Public Prosecution A WOODCUT FROM 1864 depicts King John and the barons election, and that voters would see that the current coalition was the only parties Service’s attempts to obtain his inter- signing the Magna Carta on the banks of the Thames at with “a clarified agenda” to govern the Republic for the next three to five years. views. Runnymede on June 15, 1215. PAGE 28 www.celtic-connection.com FEBRUARY 2015 New Meegan Business Centre rises from the ashes after going through hell and red tape Meegan Insurance office burned down OQUITLAM – On September 6, 2012, the to February 28, 2015. long established offices of Mary Ann After all the trials and tribulations of the past, this is the day when Peter will Meegan Insurance on Austin Avenue in be singing an Irish song and once again C Coquitlam burned to the ground. holding his mother’s hand. This time they will stand on the same Mary Ann’s son Peter, who is sidewalk looking at the beautiful new By CATHOLINE manager of the business, held three-story Meegan Business Centre BUTLER that will be dedicated to Mary Ann and his mother’s hand as they her late husband Jimmy. stood on the sidewalk and These past two and a half years have surveyed the pile of smoking been challenging with bureaucratic de- rubble that was once their of- lays and red tape. but incredibly the luck of the Irish paid off. On St. Patrick’s fice. Day, last March 17, Peter finally got Peter vowed to rebuild a bigger and his building permit and a green light from better building even though they had just Coquitlam City Hall to proceed. lost everything....computers and all their The official opening date of February files. 28 for the Meegan Business Centre is As Peter relates, they didn’t even have an auspicious one for the family. a pencil to start over, but within five Peter explains, “February 28 would days they had moved into a temporary have been my dad’s birthday, my birth- office and were soon up and going day is the 29th, my brother’s birthday is again. March 1. My dad died 20 years ago on PETER MEEGAN had the best St. Patrick’s Day ever last year Peter also started working on the tedi- March 1 and my brother died the same th when he was finally granted planing permission to proceed with ous and frequently frustrating task of year in April. So, it’s the 20 anniver- securing all the necessary permits and DEVASTATED following the fire, sary of their deaths. construction of the new Meegan Business Centre. He credits his documents to rebuild. Peter and his mother Mary Ann Irish parents Mary Ann and Jimmy for a lot of his determination “Normally, what I do on the anniver- and tenacity to make the project a reality. He credits a lot of his determination, survey the rubble that was once sary of their death is take a can of beer pride of culture, and work ethic to his the Meegan Insurance agency. to the graveyard. I have a few sips and Irish mother, Mary Ann who is 86- then I pour it on the graves to share years-old, and his father Jimmy who with my dad and brother. passed away in 1995. “But, this year, I want to give my mom Jimmy and Mary Ann immigrated from the keys to the new Meegan Business Dundalk, County Louth in Ireland in Centre. Afterwards we can go to the 1957 and 1959 respectively, settling in graveyard and say ‘Dad, we did it’.” the small coastal town of Ocean Falls Speaking about the grand opening cel- in British Columbia. ebration at the Meegan Centre, Peter Jimmy worked for Crown Zellerbach says “How do we plan for a party like (paper products) and Mary Ann opened this?” her own insurance agency, operating At the last big celebration for their 25th out of the family home. Mary Ann and anniversary there were hundreds of Jimmy had four children: Brigid, guests along with an Irish band in the Michael, James, and Peter. office and the place was packed. In 1972, Jimmy transferred to Crown “That’s what we’ll be doing on Febru- Zellerbach’s Fraser Mills operation and ary 28,” said Peter. “We’ll have Irish the family moved to Coquitlam. In 1973, music and balloons and we’re inviting Mary Ann opened her own insurance THE WORK begins on construc- all our customers and friends to join us THE NEW Meegan Business Centre officially opens in Coquitlam business at 1060 Austin Avenue. tion of the Meegan Busines Cen- for the opening of the Meegan Busi- ness Centre at 1060 Austin Avenue.” on Saturday, February 28 and Peter Meegan wants everyone to Fast forward from the day Mary Ann tre on Austin Avenue. come and join in the grand opening celebration. Tributes for Bernard Jordan at the funeral of the ‘Great Escaper’ LONDON – Mourners tate to the Royal National Lifeboat In- He had a great adventure crossing the stitution (RNLI). channel on the ferry where he shared gathered at the funeral hugs, dances and songs with a Forties- The couple, who did not have children, style vocal harmony trio called The service of a war veteran had been married for 59 years and cel- Candy Girls. ebrated their golden wedding anniver- who sprang to interna- sary in 2005. The Candy Girls were providing enter- tional prominence when tainment on the crossings for Brittany Around 150 mourners, including war Ferries and hit it off with Bernie when he left his care home to veterans and RNLI members, packed they sang his favourite song You Are th St. Michael and All Angels Church in My Sunshine. attend last year’s 70 an- Brighton, East Sussex, for the couple’s BERNARD JORDAN gave his caregivers the slip to attend D- niversary D-Day events. joint funeral. Bernard told the entertainers about his Day commemorations in Normandy last June. wartime heroics, which included diving remember his fallen “mates.” He had lion troops and costing 250,000 lives. Brighton and Hove mayor Brian Fitch to a sunken German submarine to sal- Bernard Jordan died aged 90 on paid tribute to Jordan’s exploits in decided to join British veterans, most vage a decoder which helped identify Jordan had hoped to return to Nor- December 30 – six months after France, saying they showed his “deter- making their final pilgrimage to revisit other enemy vessels. mandy this June. Following his journey earning the nickname the ‘Great mination, focus, selflessness and com- the scene of their momentous invasion, last summer, Brittany Ferries offered mitment” to honour a cause he believed His whereabouts emerged only when a to remember the heroes of the libera- Escaper’ for his cross-Channel him free crossings to D-Day events for in. younger veteran phoned later that night tion of Europe. escapade last summer. the rest of his life. to say he had met the senior and he Bernie Jordan’s disappearance to Nor- Some 156,000 Allied troops landed on Seven days after Jordan’s death, his was safe. On his 90th birthday, days after he re- mandy last June 5 sparked a police the five invasion beaches on June 6, wife Irene also died, aged 88, prompt- turned from his caper, he was inundated search that led to him being catapulted Royal Navy veteran Jordan told report- 1944, sparking an 80-day campaign to ing tributes to the couple who it with more than 2,500 birthday cards to international attention. ers on his return that his aim was to liberate Normandy involving three mil- emerged left their entire £600,000 es- from around the world.