CIT Students’ Union Magazine Volume Seven - Issue Eight Societies Awards BEBO Photos Me

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CIT Students’ Union Ode to Jeremy Rossa Ave, Ode to Jeremy Bishopstown Cork, Ireland.

Telephone: 021 493 3120 Fax: 021 454 5343 Email: [email protected] expliCIT Staff Editor - Caitriona Foley Design & Advertising - Philip O’Reilly

Contributions Michael O’Connor Emma Martin Jonathan O’Sullivan Barry O’Sullivan Oh Jeremy, Jeremy Then all of a sudden Michelle Bouse Glynis Dennehy You are a treasure You shot to fame Séan F O’Leary CIT Floppy Soc To know you through college It was the Students President you has been the ultimate pleasure became Self Help Africa SUAS Society We all cheered quite loud On our first day as you did us proud Eoin Deane Keith Ricken You showed us the way Neil Danton John Murphy As we walked through the main door Now you are leaving With our eyes on the floor We too must go Onto bigger better that I do know As the years passed by We all developed a twinkle in our eye So that is the story we wish to tell Our love for the fun got And to CIT we say farewell CIT Students’ Union stronger and stronger That is why my liver cannot take much (submitted by final year students with President - Jeremy Ó Murchú longer fond memories of their time in CIT) ([email protected]) Vice President Education - Michael O’Connor ([email protected]) Hey boys and girls, Vice President Welfare - Sinéad O’Connell ([email protected]) It’s hard to believe that this is my last editorial here at expliCIT! I’ve had an amazing year, with some Entertainments Officer - Charles Daly major ups and downs, and a few surprises thrown in as well. But now it’s time to pass the torch to ([email protected]) Gearóid Buckley, who was recently elected as my successor. Well done, Gearóid, and congratulations Projects Officer - Wesley Kiely to all the others elected to the Students’ Union for 2006/07: Brian, Marie Claire and Wez. ([email protected]) Communications Officer - Caitriona Foley Since our last issue, there have been plenty of events to keep everyone busy, including the election of ([email protected]) course, as well as the Societies Awards on April 4th and Celebration Day on April 5th. Congrats to all the societies and individuals that won awards in the Metropole Hotel on the 4th, they were all well Print deserved. The first ever Crawford Societies Masquerade Ball was held in the Imperial Hotel on the 12th Barnaville Print & Graphics LTD of April and a wonderful night was had by all. Freshford, Kilkenny. Meanwhile, in the outside world, bird flu is on its way so however lucky it is, do not, I repeat DO NOT, Advertising Opportunities let any birds add a little white design to your clothes and/or head. The new School of Music is well on CIT has almost 17,000 full and part-time students with its way, and will most likely be a fantastic building for all the music students. As for the situation in the over 1,500 supporting staff. Why not use expliCIT to Crawford, well it still seems to be in a state of limbo, and the students are still waiting to hear a deci- promote your business to this large audience? sion. (Don’t hold your breath.)

Copy deadlines, advertising rates and technical specifi- So now it’s time to say goodbye. I’d like to thank everyone in the Students’ Union, the class reps, the cations are available from our website www.expliCIT.ie staff in CIT and all the brilliant new friends I’ve made in what has probably been one of the most event- or upon request from the Publications Office. ful years of my life. I hope that we’ve done a good job for all of you, the students, here in the SU, and that your final exams go well. Best of luck, and have a wonderful summer! expliCIT magazine is published monthly by CIT Students’ Union. The views expressed in the magazine Slán go fóill, agus go n-eirí an tádh libh, are those of their authors and are not necessarily those Caitriona of CIT Students’ Union. All articles and pictures are the property of their respective owners and should not be reproduced without their permission. P.S. If you have time and you know what’s good for you, listen to the Yeah Yeah Yeahs! We Need You! If you would like to contribute to expliCIT please contact Philip in the main SU office (C143) or email: [email protected] Cork Institute of Technology to be Renamed PC World “...we owe this honour to years of negligence by not having on campus security. Anyone can come here and pick up a few state of the art PCs, Printers or high defination LCD projectors...” Yes it's true, after signing the contracts late on Friday, CIT is to be renamed PC World. According to sources, the fact anyone can walk off the street and pickup the cheapest Make sure it’s not one of computers in Cork, really annoyed the famous store, so they decided to buy CIT. many with the Blue Screen of Death A spokesperson for CIT stated, "we owe this honour to years of negligence by not hav- ing on campus security. Anyone can come here and pick up a few state of the art PCs, Printers or high defination LCD projectors".

A regular customer, recently on parole for joyriding said, "jasus, tha joint is de place to go for a dacent computer or prajector. I can score at least fifty for a gud one".

Dear expliCIT Readers, FREE As you can guess the above is a joke but I'm so annoyed. I caught a couple of young PC! teenagers in the Student Centre causing trouble and told them to move on. I got the usual "feck you boye" and so I notified the caretakers. I was informed that they can do NOTHING as they are not security. I asked them to call the Gardaí and they said there was little point. I was told that they saw a car being broken into a week before and Take your called the local Gardaí but it was almost 50 minutes before they arrived. I agree that it is NOT their job but the photos here show that it should be somebody’s! Pick! PCs, bikes, projectors and equipment are just some of the items that could be taken every day but they can be replaced. This suitation is a complete joke and going on past experiences, this college will do nothing until someone is attacked on campus or worse. I’ve heard rumors of houses in the area with Xbox’s running with projectors kindly donated by the Institute. I believe that some may see that employing security is an unneccessary expense but surely the savings on replacing equipment and possible Bus Driver will charge you reductions in insurance premiums could be factored in ensuring. Student and staff safe- child rate for PC Using a seat ty should be a priorty. Concerned expliCIT reader. CITSU Condemns Institute Over Lack of On Campus Security Campus security or more precisely the lack of it is a worry for everyone here within University of Limerick responded to attacks on its students by increasing the number CIT. When you consider the staggering number of people that traverse our campus of security personnel on the ground. President of ULSU Fintan Breen stated that ”col- everyday it astonishes one that crime isn’t a bigger problem. However, don’t let that lege security was stepped up with campus security on motorcycles and cars, next year comment fool you crime is here in CIT. This year alone a number of bicycles and will see the installation of a ?400,000 CCTV system across campus”. motor cycles have been stolen, and many car owners have reported vandalism to the Union. Security is becoming a major issue for all colleges yet we here in CIT. find ourselves lacking any suitable presence on campus. Speaking recently President of CITSU This autumn will see the opening of the new Student Centre and with that the first Jeremy O Murchú recalled that ”this year has seen a sharp increase in criminal activ- on campus bar. Being realistic alcohol will bring its own problems. Who will regulate ity on campus”. He added, “next year will quite likely follow this trend along with the access to this members only bar? Who will oversee the exeunt of students from the rest of the country, we demand that the college address this problem in a suitable college after close? More seriously some colleges have seen dusk become a time of fashion by recruiting professional on campus security to protect student welfare”. danger for its students. HAWKES ROAD PHARMACY • Passport Photographs e4.00 • Photograph Processing Opening Hours: • All Prescriptions Dispensed Monday to Friday: 9:30am - 18:30pm • Stockists of Gosh, Vichy, RoC Saturday: 9:30am - 6:00pm & La Roche Posay Cosmetics Hawkes Road Pharmacy, Hawkes Road, Bishopstown (Near DeansHall / Outpost Bar). TEL: 021 4348331 CIT Win Best Society of the Year at National Awards Ceremony

“...The International Students Society at CIT won the Best Society of the Year Award at the National Board of Irish College Societies Awards Ceremony...” The International Students Society at CIT won the Best Society of the Year Chairperson of the Societies Board, Mr. Dan Collins, said, “My thanks, on behalf Award at the National Board of Irish College Societies Awards Ceremony held of the Societies Board, to the staff and students associated with the planning, at the Rochestown Park Hotel. The 2006 ceremony, hosted by CIT on Thursday organisation and facilitation of the event on Wednesday and Thursday. While 13th April, was a resounding success and attended by Staff and Students from CIT were delighted to host this year’s competition and awards ceremony it Colleges and Universities throughout the country. should be noted that the inspiration, work, effort and endeavour of Mervyn O’Mahony, our Societies Officer, made this event possible and a success; a The guest speaker for the evening was Mr Pat Cox, current President of the point that was made by all speakers at the Awards Ceremony”. European Movement and former President of the European Parliament. He was presented with an oil on board painting commissioned by the CIT Societies He added, “My thanks also to all the CIT students who made it to the final and Board. Painted by Francis Coughlan, a fourth year student at the Crawford participated in the event and my congratulations to the Committee and all College of Art and Design, it portrayed the busy yet relaxed style of Cork City associated with the International Students Society”. Dockland area. CIT Wins Double in National IT Song Contest The CIT Theatre was treated to the best musical talent on offer by CIT Students On Wednesday 15th March, Aoife and Will went on to represent CIT in the on Thursday 2nd March 2006 as the euroStar finalists took to the stage. The national song contest, IT factor, where entrants from most of the Institutes of final of euroStar was well attended by students, staff, parents and friends. Every Technology participated. The IT Factor in its second year was hosted by GMIT seat was filled as they waited for the show to begin. There were three finalists Galway, which was initially spearheaded last year by CIT Chaplain, Fr Kieron in the “Original Song” section and nine in the “Cover Section”. O’Driscoll.

The judges, consisting of CIT Students’ Union Entertainment Manager Mick Marc Roberts was MC on the night and the judges consisted of Simon Casey, O’Mahony, Red FM’s Steve Cooper and CIT Arts Officer Sarah Morey had a very Anthony Callinan and Kevin Morrissey. Both Aoife and Will gave flawless and difficult task when it came to deliberating over the qualities of the various per- inspiring displays in front of a full house at the Great Southern Corrib Hotel in formers but eventually did return to announce the winners. The Emeritus Galway. Despite the high standard of musical talent on display the judges did- Director of the Institute, Dr Patrick Kelleher and competition judge, Steve n’t take long to come to their decision. Simon Casey did the honour of Cooper, presented the prizes. announcing the winners. In the “Original Song” category the roof was almost lifted off as Aoife was announced as the winner. Next up was the “Cover Song” For the second year running Aoife Kelliher won the much sought-after Dr category, and once again the Corrib erupted with elation as CIT completed a Patrick Kelleher Perpetual Trophy, e2000 and recording time in a studio for remarkable double with Will winning best “Cover Song”. writing and performing her own song “This Is Me” in the original section. Aoife hails from Beaufort, Kerry and is a fourth year Multi Media Student. First prize Congrats to GMIT Galway for hosting a great event, certainly one to remember in the cover section went to Will Nunan from Charleville, Cork, and a third year for quite some time. Thanks to the many supporters of family and friends who student of BBSIS, for his performance of Paddy Casey’s “Sweet Suburban Sky”. traveled to Galway to support Aoife and Will.

The ‘Barber Shop Quartet’ were a huge hit with the audience as they enter- The contest, now in its second year, was the brainchild of Chaplain, Fr Kieron tained the packed house at the interval, along with last year’s “Original Song” O’Driscoll, whose vision it was to showcase some of the musical talent that winner, Aoife Kelliher. High praise must go to the very capable MC of the night, exists within CIT. Fr Kieron stated, “I’m delighted with the continued support of Jeremy Murphy, and to everyone who made the night the huge success that it all the student services, all those that participated and also the huge support of was. The continued success of the CIT euroStar competition was the result of staff, student’s family and friends. I was delighted for both Aoife and Will for a combination of resources from the Chaplaincy, Student Support Team, winning the national competition IT Factor in both categories. It’s great to see Students’ Union, Societies Office, Sports Office and many other staff and stu- the IT Factor going from strength to strength. WIT are anxious to host the IT dents. Congratulations to all the winners and performers of the competition. Factor next which will see it continue into the future”. The management and staff Monday 1st May Texas Hold ‘Em Night would like to wish you the best of luck with your exams and thank you for your Tuesday 2nd May Party Fun ‘n’ Frolics with DJ custom this year.

Enjoy the Summer! Wednesday 4th May The Waxies Live On Stage followed by Summer Party DJ

Thursday 4th May BEAT THE DJ - Prizes Gallore End of Year Promo Madness

BOOK YOUR END OF YEAR PARTY NOW! SEE POSTERS / FLIERS FOR END OF EXAMS PARTY GIG GUIDE REMEMBER TEXAS HOLD EM EVERY MONDAY & DJ EVERY THURSDAY DURING EXAMS! Enterprise Ireland Student Awards 2006

“...students who came together to enter the CIT Prize for Innovation (where they took 1st place and prize money of e3,000) for their work on their product Fingerfit..."

The 2006 Student Awards, jointly sponsored by Enterprise Ireland, Ulster Bank The overall winners of the Student Awards were DIT Bolton Street. The highlight and Invest Northern Ireland took place on April 5th and 6th in Queens of the 2 days was the return journey home from Belfast as we met Westlife. University, Belfast. This competition is designed to encourage innovation, pro- They were on the same flight down for their show in Millstreet. mote enterprise and foster a spirit of entrepreneurship among third level stu- dents. There was an amazing prize fund of e44,000 on offer to students par- CIT Mechanical Engineering Degree student, Kathleen Hurley and Accounting ticipating in the Awards. and Information Systems students, Martina Brennan, Claire Murphy and Lucy Gleeson, have been short-listed to the Top Five Finalists in the 2006 Enterprise The first day of the competition saw the finalists present their products and Ireland / Invest Northern Ireland Student Awards. business plans to the judging panel. The prizes were presented by Doug Richards from the Dragons Den at an award ceremony in the Great Hall in Kathleen Hurley's Final Year Mechanical Engineering project concerns the Queens which was attended by over 120 people. design, prototype production and testing of a medical glove with Inbuilt sup- port for a fifth metacarpal fracture. Kathleen collaborated with Accounting and For the third year in succession CIT was one of the finalists – the team consist- Information Systems students Martina, Claire and Lucy, who devised the ed of three Business Studies (Accounting and Information Systems) students Business Plan, to form a company Finger Splint Ltd. and one Mechanical Engineering student who came together to enter the CIT From a large national entry, The Finger Splint Team have been selected as one Prize for Innovation (where they took 1st place and prize money of e3,000) for of just five finalists in the 2006 Ireland / Invest Northern Ireland Student their work on their product Fingerfit. Awards Competition finals, which take place on 5th-6th April in QUB, Belfast

Fingerfit is a neoprene glove with an inbuilt metal support made of aluminium. Ms. Caroline O'Reilly and Dr. Keith Bryan are the proud supervisors of the cross- The neoprene glove will allow the skin to breathe, hence counteracting the discipline student team finalists. breakdown of the skin. The finger splint is used to support the bone at either end of the fracture giving it time to heal. If the fracture is not well supported Photo shows: CIT Mechanical Engineering Degree Student Kathleen Hurley the bone will heal with a bit of a bend. The finger splint has three clamp like (right) & Accounting and Information Systems Students Martina Brennan, Claire arms, two on the underside of the hand and one on top of the hand. The fin- Murphy and Lucy Gleeson demonstrating the developed prototype and busi- ger splint is lined with foam for the comfort of the user. ness plan. CIT to Build Second Library on Bishopstown Campus The Minister for Education & Science recently another substantial building to the Campus announced sanction for a Library Extension for and with it the opportunity to continue the CIT as a PPP project. This building is likely to change in a very positive way its built environ- have a footprint of some 2,000 m2 and be at ment. least a two storey building. As a PPP develop- ment, it is necessary for contract/development RKD Architects undertook the Masterplan purposes that it be a stand-alone building, ide- Review in consultation with the Institute and ally within a defined zone extending perhaps its Development Committee (of Governing some 5-10 m beyond the footprint of the Body). building itself as the site would be leased to the PPP consortium for some 25 or so years. The revised Bishopstown Campus Masterplan, which shows the location of the proposed Thus, the option of physically attaching the Library Extension (most likely to be re-titled extension to the existing library was not feasi- Learning Resource Centre) to the east of B & C- ble given the likely physical size of the building Blocks of the main campus building. It is also and the unpredictable risks for any PPP con- hoped that the development will “carry” the sortium that interference with an existing new front and bus set-down area for which library operation might throw up during devel- planning exists. This would allow a (con- opment. Also, the anticipated scale of the trolled) second vehicle access point to the development offers an opportunity to add upper plateau area of the campus.

Would you like to get involved with expliCIT? [email protected] or you can drop in directly into the SU office in C143 CIT Hosts Massed Band Concert

“...The bands have many members that include students and staff of the Institute, and both conductors graduated from the Cork School of Music, a constituent college of CIT...”

Cork Institute of Technology hosted a Massed Band Concert consisting of day, with the current conductor, Robert O’Brien also being a serving bandsman Ballincollig Concert Band and St. Nicholas Brass Band on Wednesday 15th in the Defence Forces. March. The performance took place in the main college theatre and included many classical and contemporary arrangements. Ballincollig Conductor, Eoin Nash, graduated from the Cork School of Music in 2000 with an honours BMus. In 2004 he completed a Masters degree in Music The bands have many members that include students and staff of the Institute, Therapy at the University of Limerick. As a trombone player, Eoin has toured and both conductors graduated from the Cork School of Music. Special guests around the world with various local and national ensembles. In 2005 he enlist- on the night also included the Note Perfect Vocal Ensemble, conducted by Ms. ed in the Army School of Music, with whom he is currently a bandsman with Rose Griffin. the Band of the First Southern Brigade. As well as conducting the Ballincollig Concert Band, Eoin also works as a musical director with the Cork Academy of Ballincollig Concert Band was founded by John O’Connor in 1988 and over the Dramatic Arts and has for the past two years been musical director of the pop- course of the last eighteen years has grown into one of the largest and most ular Christmas pantomime at the Everyman Palace theatre in Cork. successful concert bands in the country. The organisation now encompasses three bands, at junior, intermediate and senior level and many members who St. Nicks Conductor, Robert O’Brien, began his musical studies at the Cork began their musical studies there have gone on to successful careers perform- School of Music, from which he graduated in 2004 with an honours BMus. ing at the highest level, both in this country and abroad. The current conduc- There he studied the tuba, first with Brian Prendergast, and subsequently with tor, Eoin Nash, took over the baton from John O’Connor in 2003. Tony Neal and Francis Magee. He enlisted in the Army School of Music in 2002 and is currently posted to the Band of The First Southern Brigade in Collins St Nicholas’ Brass Band was founded in Cove Street in Cork in 1914. Originally Barracks, where he holds the rank of bandsman. He is also on the staff of the founded as a bugle band, it became a full brass band following the purchase Cork School of Music, where he teaches Tuba and conducts the Beginner and of a number of instruments from what was then Victoria (now Collin’s) Junior Concert Bands. Robert was appointed conductor of St Nicholas’ Brass Barracks. At this time the first conductor was engaged from the military band Band in February 2005. based in the barracks. The involvement with the barracks is carried on to this

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Email: [email protected] Tel: 021 4933124 Meet: SU Shop - C143 CIT Students’ Union President My fellow Students, The students are by far the most important aspect of CIT, from time to time the Students' Union needs to remind the Institute this. In my time here the one Welcome back after the Easter break, I hope thing I have noticed is how out of touch and oblivious this college is when it you had an enjoyable one. Things have been comes to the needs of its students, be it with the library, the Student Centre, or very busy here in the Students' Union and in Crawford College of Art and Design. CIT. Hopefully by the time you are reading this the library issue will be resolved, I'm sure you When I started my term of office the thing that surprised me the most was that have signed the petitions that have been circu- things were as bad as we said they were. In my time here I always tried to lated over the last number of weeks. If the col- demonstrate conviction, courage, a desire to help others, and a true and gen- lege are not willing to extend the library hours uine love for the students of this college. I hope I achieved this. so that students can enhance there studying capabilities, well then we'll have an few inter- Recently, in relation to an argument I was having in regards to CITSU’s, non esting nights here in CIT. affiliation to USI, where I raised the fact that I believe that USI does not repre- sent the opinions of all its members, the question was posed to me in turn do CIT recently hosted the national society awards in the beginning of April. It was I represent all the opinions of the Students of CIT. I replied boldly "Yes I do". a two day event that took place in the Student Centre, which I have to say, For CIT is truly a unique college, a small community where from the moment looked terrific. I was delighted that CIT picked up an award, so a belated con- you step in the corridor there exists a great sense of consideration for others, gratulations on behalf of everyone here in the Students' Union to the understanding, and association. International Students Society and indeed to all those involved in the organis- ing and hosting of it. A famous politician once said "How can he be regarded as representing the people when he speaks, not their language, but his own? He ceases to be their Since the last time I was talking to you the Students' Union has come under a representative when he does so, and represents himself alone." The Students' lot of criticism over the letter that was printed in the last edition of explicit Union always speaks your language. about the Student Services Company and their involvement in the new Student Centre. A number of people were personally offended by that letter, and all As my term of office is coming to a close so too is my time in CIT. I have been afflictions resulting of it were directed to me. I will not apologise for printing blessed to have had such a unique experience and association with such a ter- the letter, the cause is truly a righteous one. If I am to be properly responsive rific amount of people here in the Students' Union. I believe that the Students' to the will of the students I represent, it is my duty to place their principles, not Union is an imperative organisation, where we can speak up for your rights as mine, above all else. both a student and as an individual, and to hold an organisation such as CIT accountable for every decision it makes. I hope I have done well by you the stu- For too long have the Students and their opinions been swept aside and not dent, since I started my term of office I approached it in the following way: been taken into consideration. It is not bad enough that students have had to ”Always do what is right, regardless of whether it is popular, ignore the pres- wait three years for a building which would enhance their experiences here in sures, the temptations, the false promises”, quoted from JFK in his first term as CIT, but when a college decides to make decisions without any regard for stu- senator. dent opinion, these problems need to be raised. It is the fundamental concept of the Students’ Union that those in a position to protest should rightly do so. This year I was honoured to work with a magnificent executive who were both However saying this, to the ground staff of the canteen company I would like diligent and above all else hard working. Never in recent years has here been to make it clear that in no way was this letter directed to you, I recently said such a unique group of individuals who has done so much for the students that the best thing about the company is its staff, and this is indeed true, they here in CIT. I would like to thank Mikey, Wez, John, Catriona, Calvin and Sinead are always courteous, kind, and most of all gracious to the students every for rising above and beyond the expectations of every student in this college. day. They have raised the bar considerably and their passion for the Students' Union will never be forgotten. Thanks to all the students of CIT who have supported The Student Centre is an issue that has taken up a lot of the Students' Union our cause this year. When I ran for election last year I did so hoping I could time and resources this year. The one true regret I have when finishing my term make a difference, I hope I did. is not being around to see it open. There has clearly been an agenda when it came to the Student Centre from the beginning of the academic year. There has been nothing but obstacles and intricacies in the way of opening the building. I can imagine no more rewarding a position, if anyone asked in these times At this stage the building will not be completely open until September 2006. what he did to make his life worthwhile, I think can respond with a good deal Despite all the problems it was the students who came to aide of this white of pride and satisfaction: "I served as President of CIT Students' Union". elephant. It was the students who paid for the under floor heating, and the stu- dents who are paying for the furniture. The students will truly have ownership Regards, of this building but many challenges lie ahead. It will be up to you the student Jeremy to stand and speak out for your right, never forget this is your college. The ener- gies and talents of all of us are needed to meet the challenges. CIT Students’ Union Vice President Welfare Hi all! Don't forget that I still am still welfare officer until the end of May so I'm still here to help out with everyone's landlord issues Well it's been a fun year, a league won, getting to the Setanta and such. You can also check out your rights on our website Cup final and still going strong in the present season…. wait www.citsu.ie/welfare that's not right, that's about CCFC and this is a Union Address, keep on getting distracted lately by that sort of thing sorry! Working with the lads (and that includes Caitriona) has been great this year, this Union has started and built on many things Seriously though it has been a great year and I am delighted to and I know that we are very proud of that. have been your Welfare Officer. Until I'm all done and gone and Marie-Claire takes over my I didn't know coming into this job that there'd be so many com- office is still here and I'm always in early. Landlord Problems? mittees and things that I would have thought superfluous Call into the SU Office if you are before, but now I realise just how much hard work is to be Thanks bunches everyone! having any difficulties, email [email protected] or call done and how important this is for every student of CIT. 021 4933123 Sinéad CIT Students’ Union Vice President Education “Endings always seem so final at the close” each other, we accept, here our courses only define what we do and not who we are. The friends I have made moulded me into the individual that sits here So this is it, I have come to the end of my term today, through your belief in me I now believe in myself, I came to college an in office and my time here in CIT. empty vessel, I now leave stored with memories.

Firstly I would like to thank my colleagues in the I’ll never forget the nights out or the nights in, The Rag Balls, the after parties, Students’ Union for making the experience an beat the clock in Nancy’s, FX, Gorby’s, Rampage, Redz, all blurs I’ll hold dear till unforgettable one, especially the members of the day I go senile. The thrill of seeing a night you organised being a total suc- the executive Jeremy, Sinead, Wes, John, Calvin cess is unreal. Of course there were hard times too but I could always rely on and Catriona. I’d also like to thank all the stu- my class mates and later friends I made through Societies, Sports and the dents who got involved and put their shoulders Union, to help me through. to our cause, be they class reps, crew or volunteers. Finally I would like to thank the academic and administrative staff within the college who helped me with My final official duty, just a small bit of business to deal with; the library should my casework through out the year. have extended opening hours by the time you read this article. I’ll be handing out earplugs in the library to help people study, who said I never give ya any- I would now like to welcome the incoming officers and I hope they receive as thing. Take a bit of advice from me, for what time’s left in the year forget about much support from the student body as we did, I wish them every success in BEBO, it is a glorified waste of internet space. I cannot emphasise this enough, the year ahead. If they need us all they got to do is push the red button and study, study hard, study harder, get an award, get what each of you deserve, a we will come back to help out (I want to go to rep training). means to a better life, and that’s what I came to college for a means to a bet- ter life. Six of my adult years were spent in this safe haven of brick and portacabin. Sure it isn’t the prettiest college in the country, so what if we have dogs that have As I walk out of my office tonight I know I’ll ask myself one question “What spent more time in the college than some of the students, we still rock. Things next?”. Honestly only time will tell ……. I hear Bertie’s hiring. are looking good for us, the student centre will be open shortly, there’s a new library on the way with almost over 750 study spaces and 200 open access My friends I say goodbye with warmth in my heart, a degree on my wall and spaces, really we can’t complain. holiday pay in my pocket!

Recently I was asked, what will I miss when I go and I have to say, its you guys, Till our roads meet again, this year alone I made so many close friends who will remain my friends for many more days. That’s where we differ from other colleges we don’t judge Mikey “...The main aim of the Association is to provide a professional and social network that will be of mutual benefit to CIT alumni and the Institute. CIT provides all alumni with free membership of the Association. CIT alumni are an important part of our Institute Community...”

The CIT Alumni Association enables graduates to keep in touch with develop- In recent months we have developed much more pro-active links, through ments at CIT and maintain contacts with friends, classmates and faculty staff reunions and informal meetings with alumni. The Alumni Relations Office can from college days. The main aim of the Association is to provide a profession- also help current students and staff with alumni links and information. I am al and social network that will be of mutual benefit to CIT alumni and the aware that it is difficult to travel and not encounter a CIT Alumni, even in far Institute. CIT provides all alumni with free membership of the Association. CIT flung locations; with your help, we can make our network a truly global one. alumni are an important part of our Institute Community. Finally, I would like to wish you all the best of luck in your exams and your There are CIT Alumni worldwide who have moved from studying at the future endeavours. Institute but who want to stay in contact with us and who value their contin- ued connection with former classmates, academic staff and the Institute as a whole. The Alumni memeber, in turn, offer a great deal to our current students Glynis Dennehy, and staff in terms of mentoring and career assistance and also provide connec- Alumni Relations, tions to many business and public organisations which further our teaching CIT Alumni Association and research objectives. What Can We Offer New Graduates? The CIT Alumni Association provides members with a wide range of ben- Reunions efits and services including: Guidelines for organising reunions Reunions are a good opportunity for Graduates to renew friendships. • a unique affinity credit card The CIT Alumni Association can offer assistance in the planning and organis- • assistance in organising reunions ing of class reunions including: • discounts for services • the Learning City Magazine sent to all alumni on a mailing list (please • Class lists and mailings ensure you keep us updated with contact details). • Choice of on-campus (if available) or off-campus venues • general information about careers, interview skills and CV • Accommodation advice development for recent graduates (for 1st year out graduates) • Advice and contact details for suitable musical entertainment • access to CIT facilities (including library membership) • Visits to CIT Campus • invitations to various events • access to worldwide and regional branches of the Association Running a successful reunion requires forward planning. At the very outset we would advise you to establish an Organising Committee. Find a Friend.... In general it is advisable to allow a timescale of between six and twelve The Alumni Office offers a free service for CIT Alumni who are seeking to con- months in planning a reunion. tact former classmates and friends from their student days. If you would like to contact a class-mate or another college friend, simply contact us to post a If you would like to become a member of the CIT Alumni Association, please request. complete the registration form on the online registration facility (http://www.cit.ie/GradRegister.cfm) under the Alumni section. Events Our Diary of Alumni Events is updated regularly. Alumni and friends are Glynis Dennehy, Alumni Relations, CIT Alumni Association, encouraged to attend events (including public lectures, arts events, sports and Cork Institute of Technology, Bishopstown, Cork conferences) organised by the Institute, its individual schools, clubs or soci- Tel: +353 21 432 6589 - Fax: + 353 21 454 5182 - Email: [email protected] eties. File Picture from 1992

Dear expliCIT,

I am fourth year business studies student here in CIT, and took a great concern when I read the article where the SU highlighted the possibility of the Canteen Company, taking over some of the new shops in the student centre. I was not shocked when I read this con- sidering the conduct of the college in years I have been here.

I remember when the student centre first started construction which brought a great deal of hope and euphoria to my class. Here we are 3 years later and the building is not yet finished. Now we see that the Canteen Company is going to run some the shops in the student cen- tre which I have to say is just as bad as rubbing salt in to our wounds.

As my class are preparing to leave this college we have to say we do so with very little confidence and regard for the people that run this college. If I had known that the college is run in such a way, I would have not bothered coming here in the first place.

Frustrated Student.

Dear expliCIT,

At this stage in the year we know that all students are diligently study- ing for final exams, we here in the Students’ Union are answering your call for longer opening hours in our library.

To show the college just how serious an issue this is for us we circu- lated a petition which was signed by over 1000 students. We believe that this is as clear a message as the college should require as proof of the validity of our argument for extension of hours.

We now beseech the college to extend opening hours of our library to include Sunday openings, similar to the opening hours of Saturday 9:00 am – 5:00 pm. We believe as a result of the increased number of student accommodation sites in Bishopstown, more and more stu- dents are spending their weekends in Cork. We see opening the library on Sunday’s as the next logical step in progressing the service that our fine Institution offers to its customers, the students we rep- resent.

This is a subject we have brought to the attention of the college on numerous occasions throughout the year from as early as last sum- mer; we believe we have been more than accommodating with the college in its attempts to extend this service. We now find ourselves amidst the busiest season for the library and its hours have yet to be extended beyond standard opening times.

We here in the Students’ Union do not demand miracles or level threats, however, this is a matter which affects all our current students and all those who will follow in their foot steps. If the college is unwilling to aid in our request then further steps will have to be taken, this is an action which we are reluctant to commit to as it will further disrupt college life, however it will be the only option left open to us at this late stage.

Michael O’Connor VP Education

CIT & National Societies Awards Pictures BICS National Society Awards 2006

The BICS (Board of Irish College Societies) National Awards, was hosted by Cork Institute of Technology on April 13th in the Rochestown Park Hotel. The gala evening celebrated the enormous contribution societies and their members make to the social, cultural and humanitarian life of their respective campuses. Societies offer their members the opportunity to acquire very valuable life skills, which complement and enhance their academic programmes and produce well rounded graduates ready to make significant contributions to the wider community.

Representatives from CIT, DCU, DIT, IT Tallaght, NUI Galway, NUI Maynooth and UCC were present on the evening. They all presented portfolios and attended interviews during the rigorous process. So important is the evening that one hundred and sev- enty society members from forty-one societies were present at a very busy time dur- ing their academic calendar. Mr Mervyn O’Mahony, CIT Societies Officer and awards coordinator described the evening as “the highlight of the Societies calendar and a wonderful opportunity for the best in the country to meet and share ideas”

Special guest for the evening was Mr. Pat Cox, former President of the European Parliament, who presented the nine awards to the winners. Best Society in a large College went to the Juggling Society, NUI Galway, Best Society in a small college went to CIT International Students’ Society, Best improved Society went to DCU Saint Vincent de Paul Society, Best New Society went to NUI Galway Business Society, Best Society Event went to DCU Style Society for DCU Fashion Show 2006, Best Society individual went to Donna Cummins, NUI Galway, Best Society Fresher went to Breege Clarke NUI Maynooth. Best Poster went to DIT Artichoke Society and Best Website went to DIT LGBT Society for HYPERLINK "http://www.ditlgbt.com"

SEE www.bics.ie for more information y l l i : e y b R ’

s O e

r p i u l t i c h i P P

CIT Society Awards 2006 Over the last number of years CIT has initiated an awards ceremony to highlight Societies and individual members who have made an outstanding contribution to extra-curricular life at the Institute. This year the annual CIT/AIB Society awards took place on Tuesday 4th April in the Gresham Metropole Hotel. In all 10 awards were presented on the night. Each year the awards were presented by a known celebrity. Over the years we have had the privilege of inviting guests such as ‘Bela’ from Fair City, Niall Toibin, Ryan Tubridy, Des Bishop and Packie O’ Callaghan. This year the Awards were presented by Mr Joe Rooney alias Fr Damo from Fr. Ted. This year a total of ten awards were pre- sented which were as follows; ‘Society of the Year’, ‘Group Achievement Award’, ‘Best or Most Improved Society’ and ‘Best Course-Based Society’, and 6 Individual Awards. Don’t Sell Yourself Short extent where he had divorced his wife (whom he subsequently remarried). I then Jonathan O Sullivan, Member of the CIT asked him did he ever have self-doubt or loose faith in his idea. “Never!” he Entrepreneurial Society, interviews local answered. He showed true entrepreneurial spirit by never doubting himself and constantly believing that his project was going to be successful. Tom’s persist- entrepreneur Tom O’Connor. ence led him to the US where he pleaded with distributors who eventually caved in and gave him the letter of confirmation fully believing that they would never Tom is the Owner of the Reel Cinema Ballincollig and also owns a host of other see him again. cinemas dotted throughout the Ireland and the UK. Tom is nearly 60 he tells me in our interview, but his laid back attitude to both work and life leaves him look- Tom returned home, letter in hand and approached numerous banks until final- ing in his early 40’s. He loves what he does and it shows. He hates the idea of ly a bank agreed to the loan. Tom describes this as he best/worst point of start- retiring and said he could never do it. He doesn’t have many hobbies as he ing up. In one respect after all his hard work and pushing for this business to go admits to having a short attention span. Obviously he has a passion for movies ahead he had just committed to loans worth about ?1,000,000. He felt under so and gets a great a kick out of watching them during the day when he has the much pressure but he still never doubted his own ability. Tom wasn’t afraid to entire room to himself. He explains “I’m always too worried about whether the ask for help and he soon had ‘Cinemaworld’ in Douglas up and running. customers are enjoying themselves and whether they are comfortable and if the volume is ok and the projection quality is perfect – I can’t enjoy the movie!” Tom revealed in our interview that he had learned a great deal from Ryanair’s low cost and no frills business structure. He used some of these principals in the He’s very self-assured and aware of who he is and his capabilities without com- development of the cinema. Tom gets 10% on average of ticket sales, he nets off ing across as arrogant. He knows his strong points, such as his fantastic ability the cost price of overheads such as staff wages, cost of stock, lighting and heat- to communicate in a confident yet warm manner. It’s a quality which I’m sure ing. If the costs can be covered in that 10% then the goods sold are pure profit. has earned him the majority his success to date. He describes himself as selfish An average person spends ?3.50 on consumable per visit to the cinema with in the fact that he likes to do things his own way and this has led to his entre- popcorn being the biggest profit maker. The mark up on popcorn is phenomenal. preneurial attitude and success. For example when he applied for a job in American express he applied by making a video for them and on it telling them He soon saw a gap in the market for another cinema in the Ballincollig area. what he could do for the company. They said to him afterwards that it was the Ballincollig had only 13,500 residents at the time, which was under the target first time some one ever applied like that and they hired him straight away. amount Tom would have preferred but the believed that people would drive to cinemas if they knew parking was going to be free and easy to find. Following on from the success of Douglas he found that the banks attitude had changed The turning point: totally. They were more than happy to aid him in his investment. Tom drew up After eleven years of working with Ryanair, Tom was asked to be the European the plans for the new cinema in such a way that if it wasn’t a success as a cine- Development Manager for the company. The position, however, would have ma the building itself could be turned into a warehouses or a shopping centre. involved uprooting his family from Cork and move to Dublin and would involve him flying all over Europe for most weeks. He had absolutely no plan when he When I asked him about his thoughts on the new Mahon Point cinema and if he left the company and at the age of 45 the idea of starting with another compa- felt his businesses are threatened by it, he replied that although it was a bad ny wasn’t a very attractive one. year for movies, his cinemas in Cork were still turning a healthy profit. He classed Mahon Point as a destination point cinema. It’s attached to a shopping The idea of building a new cinema in Cork was born out on a rainy Tuesday centre so people can go there for more than one purpose, which was one of its evening when he and his son intended to see a film at the Capitol Cinema on biggest advantages. They focused a lot on comfort and this cost a lot of money Grand Parade. They had to wait in the rain in a long queue for a ticket only for and it’s reflected on ticket prices, which are one of its disadvantages. the movie they want to see to be sold out. When Tom asked to book a ticket for the next time he was told that it wasn’t available and he would have to queue again. With Toms’ passion for the movies and his entrepreneurial attitude he recognised the opportunity for another cinema to rival the Cork city based Other projects From my interview with Tom it’s clear that he’s a hub of new ideas and creativ- Capitol. Tom did his research and realised that the Irish are one of the most fre- ity. He admits to having a short attention span and that once he has come up quent cinema goers in Europe at an average of five visits per year. with a new idea that he hates the detail and likes to hand over the projects. Managers currently run the cinemas and he has as little as possible to do with Cork city was automatically ruled out, as property prices were far too costly. Tom the day-to-day running. He tells me of two such projects: then approached one of his friends who is an architect to seek his advise on planning a building but his friend had no idea of the dimensions of a cinema. At this time another cinema complex was in the process of being built. They decid- NeutraP – You’ll never flush again Tom told me about a hotel stay a few years back. A flushing toilet caused him to ed to pay the site a visit to see how it was done. Knowing that they wouldn’t be wake up in the middle of the night, as he was a light sleeper. This wasn’t the first entirely welcome to look around the site, Tom and his friend had the ingenious incident that this had happened and that it effected many people. He then found idea of donning a high-vis jacket and a hard hat and pose as Health and Safety. out that an entire reservoir of water is used just for flushing the toilet at night. Tom again showed great ingenuity and imagination, a trait which is commonly With London facing increasing drought problems every year including the worst found in entrepreneurs. They met the foreman in their costumes and asked that ever coming this summer he knew there had to be solution. He came up with the all workers including the foreman be offsite during their ‘inspection’. They meas- idea of a sanitation tablet that one could pop into the toilet and it would neu- ured every nook and cranny and took detailed notes. Tom even had the cheek to tralise the water with out the need to flush. give out to the foreman after he nearly fell over a small pile of blocks after they had finished their ‘inspection’! Impressing me with his many contacts he told me he has collaborated with another friend who is experienced in pool cleaning. They have devised the prod- Tom came to the conclusion that the ideal location of his first cinema was to be uct down to the finest detail (it even bubbles when you drop it in and cleans the Douglas in the Central Business District. His next task was to raise the venture inside of the bowl. And is covered in a film much like the new dishwasher capital for the land. This was to be his first major hurdle. The land cost £266,700 tablets so one doesn’t have to touch the actual product). I had to laugh when he and he had to apply for a bank loan. The bank would not approve the loan until told me the name of the product but he is quite proud of it. he had the deeds and the deeds could not be given to him without the money. He overcame this first catch 22 situation by somehow acquiring the deeds for a Infact, Calgon (the lime scale product) and the London Themes Authority have day and convincing the bank that he was going to use the money to build on site. commissioned its development and trial and have bought the right to use it off Upon approval he subsequently had the land revalued to find it has appreciated Tom. As he owns the patent he will receive a hefty percentage of the profits. to £508,000. Once a success, the UK government will more than likely make it mandatory that all hotel rooms stock the product. That’s a lot of hotel rooms – that’s a lot of He then went in search of further funding from other banks, but Tom could not money. get further funding until he got confirmation of product. This is a letter from a distributor stating that they are willing to provide him with motion pictures. But it doesn’t stop there Tom has also developed the project further by the idea However, Tom later found out, the distributors would not give confirmation until of incorporating a pregnancy test into it. It will change colour depending on if the cinema was fully built and operational. He had hit his second hurdle. At this the person was pregnant or not and change back in 15 seconds so that no one point I had to ask how he dealt with the stress of starting up this business. He would notice. They could also build in basic blood tests to test for a number of admits that it put a huge strain on his relationship with his family to such an different health problems. The Big Tomaso: The first wind resistant golf club.

Golf is one of Toms favourite past times. While playing a game of golf it came to his attention that wind resistance decreased the distance that the ball would go when he hit it. “You know when €250 OFF you hit a fly with a newspaper. You swing for him but by the time the paper lands he’s already gone. The fly isn’t fast; the wind if you book before resistance built in the moving paper has pushed the fly out of the way. That’s why fly swatters have so many holes – to reduce resist- June 1st 2006 ance.” His ideas are so simple and it’s baffling and almost embar- rassing that no one has come up with them beforehand.

I can see where this is already going as he draws me a diagram of the club head. He draws a normal head but shows me where the tiny holes are drilled into the face and explains that the ball can go a hundred feet further. This is huge in the world of competitive golf and is totally within the rules of golf. There’s a fortune to be made in the world of golf club design with clubs such as ‘Ping’ costing as much as $1,200.

Tom has what is called an intellectual patent on the product and has again handed the project over to an American club design company. He frequently flies over and back to see how it’s coming along. He too seems shocked at how fast these ideas are develop- ing “Do you know there are people who devote there lives to developing a certain type of product?” he exclaims. He decided to name it after himself – he used the Irish spelling of his name and tagged an ‘o’ on the end of it. I’m informed that the Tomaso can be pronounced in all languages. Rental Charges for 2006 / 2007 Tom explained that Tomaso and tomato are similar sounding and Academic Year the whole product should take on the idea of being different. The club head should be red. And specialised Tomato golf head covers Single Room e3,850 * These deposits are refundable at the end of should be made for the clubs. Also jackets etc could be commis- the rental period less actual electricity charges Twin Room e2,650 sioned. “Of course the Americans think I’m mad and probably and the safe return of the apartment invento- e wont take it on board but why not suggest it?” Security Deposit 150 ry. Rental payment may be in two installments Electricity Deposit e250 on September 4th and December 8th 2006. Lessons Learnt Annual Refuse, e150 Tom seems truly happy and enjoys what he does. It shows in his Internet, Television * In the event of a student cancelling on or e attitude and humour. He’s such an inspired and positive person and Security Charges before August 24th, 175 of the booking it’s almost sickening. So being slightly pessimistic and typically deposit is refundable. There is no refund of Irish, I decide to focus the end of the interview on any mistakes the booking deposit after August 24th 2006. he’s made and lessons learnt. CALL US OR SEE WEBSITE FOR FULL DETAILS & TERMS “Trust.” He admits freely. “I probably trusted people too easily and that mistake has proved costly in the past.” We don’t pry too much into this. “Also, I’ve learnt to say no to a lot of people and a lot of ideas faster…and not to make rushed decisions which I can be complete the experience... quite prone to doing. But I see any mistake as a learning curve and have to put them down to that or I’ll end up bitter”

I asked him what’s the best piece of advice he would give to future budding entrepreneurs. “Don’t sell your self short,” He stresses keenly. I would have never gotten this far if I had listened to other people’s negativity. “Doubting yourself is probably human nature but to me I see it as a waste of energy.”

Tom’s key talent is his willingness to listen to advice and to recog- nise that he is not an expert in every aspect of his business. This is found to be a very important characteristic in turning a poten- tial entrepreneur into a successful businessperson. Some true character traits of an entrepreneur are clearly evident in Tom, the one that sticks out most, even to him, is that he never conformed. He is not afraid to think outside the box has paid off immensely for him.

Tom realizes the true value of family and there importance in his future. He informs me he’s nearly 60 and in his mind he’s nowhere near reached that age yet. He dreads the thought of retirement but is looking forward to the prospect to having grandchildren! Is he happy with where he is? Of course he is, but not because of the profit but the success he has made of something that was only an idea a couple of years ago. “There’s too much focus on money not success – money is a result of success not a measure of it”.

Jonathan O Sullivan I admit it. I’m a Beboholic. It started a couple of months ago when I was “Take it off. I’ll be online in an hour and if it’s still there I swear to God being bombarded with emails asking me to connect with whomever on this Sarah……………” I slammed the phone down feeling very betrayed but it site known as Bebo. I didn’t know what Bebo was nor was I interested in did make me think. finding out so I discarded the emails immediately without even bothering to click on the link. Bebo is a brilliant way of keeping in touch especially with friends who are travelling or are in college in other cities but off course there are dangers Shortly after however the conversation over lunch turned on to Bebo and associated with such a popular social site. The first thing is if you decide to recalling hearing the word somewhere or other I asked what the bloody make your page accessible the whole world can click on to it which is hell it was. where a whole new generation of Bebo stalkers are born. Who can honest- “Shell you’re so not with it” Carmel joked “It’s kind of a social site where ly say that they haven’t taken a peek at the page of an ex or a member of you can connect with friends. Shell you so have to join” the opposite sex who they have a little shine for from afar to find out what “Nah I’m not too impressed I think I’ll pass”. makes him tick and find out what the competition is like by viewing what girls had beboed him. But sure enough by the end of the week I had altered from an anti-beboie to a complete obsessive beboholic for which I blame Carmel for entirely. I A couple of nights ago I was on one particular page and I must say it was set up my home page during class (back in the good old days when the site the most interesting page I have been on. From what I could gather from it was accessible through the CIT network) writing down the things about this girl’s boyfriend had cheated on her with several of her close friends myself which I considered would be of any mere interest to anyone else (who needs enemies) and as a result of this she had turned her Bebo page and jotted down my passions and hates in life for whatever purpose I don’t into a hate campaign against Dan where she insulted his IQ, his kissing know but I still did it. technique plus his technique at something else, told the world how he waxes his legs and his chest and liked to steal her fake tan to use on him- Many a night I found myself sitting on my bed spending hours scanning self. There was many comments from him throwing back just as much hurt- through both my own page and the pages of others and I realised I had ful remarks at her plus when you clicked on his page he had put up very fallen into the this whole Bebo saga. inappropriate photos off her (much worse than the “lovely” one Sarah had put up on me). This is just one case when Bebo can go dramatically wrong At the moment I’ve no photos up on my page except one single homepage and can be used for another reason than the one it’s intentionally for. photo as I’m not one of those people who has a multiplicity of photos from a number of different nights (besides usually not in a good state to be hold But I’m still obsessed with it and can easily spent hours on end on it; poor a camera steady) out so whatever photos I do manage to put up will be dad will get a heart attack when the bill comes. I’m constantly changing my stolen from friends pages. On one occasion when looking for some cool flash box at the moment I’ve the killers Mr. Brightside and then in my blog photos to steal I came across one which did not leave me a happy camper I do a little funny piece on news from Shell’s world where I use a lot of at all. Sarah had put it on her page and it had been taken when we were code which may sound very weird to strangers reading but those who on holidays last summer. She had blatantly put up a picture of me in my know me get it. Bikini and bearing in mind I’m no supermodel I was right to be mad. At the exact moment of writing this I ‘m wondering will I just “Sarah take that bloody picture off Bebo” I ordered her after go on Bebo for a little while to find out if anyone has dialling her number beboed me and to see if my number of hits has reached 500 “You look lovely in it” yet (it’s all about popularity). Well what can I say I’m “Why is there is no picture of you in a bikini?” obsessed. Bebo me. “Ahem because there is no nice ones of me”

“...The first thing is if you decide to make your page accessible the whole world can click on to it which is where a whole new generation of Bebo stalkers are born...”

by Michelle Bouse by John Murphy, Dept. Management & Marketing

“...Gardai may tend to enforce the Penalty Points regulations in a manner most likely to secure the maximum number of convictions, rather than in a manner likely to encourage motorists to drive more safely..” The purpose behind the introduction of the Penalty Points System for Road ficult topics, emphasise topics likely to appear in examinations and generally Traffic Violations is to reduce the number of road accidents by influencing truncate courses so that only very disinterested students fail. Ensuing high pass motorists to drive in a safer manner. According to a spokesperson for the rates will remove one type of pressure from teachers. Apparently there is a Association of Garda Sergeants and Inspectors, Gardai are under pressure to well-known maxim of management, which might equally apply to college secure the maximum number of convictions for such violations in order to keep examinations, to the effect that “what gets measured gets done”. The corollary the figures for violations up, or “to make the figures look good”. Consequently, of this is that what is unmeasured is ignored. Gardai may tend to enforce the Penalty Points regulations in a manner most likely to secure the maximum number of convictions, rather than in a manner In respect of both road traffic offences and examination results the original pur- likely to encourage motorists to drive more safely. In effect, Garda check points pose of the control systems has been undermined, because those expected to may be placed where many drivers may marginally exceed limits or otherwise implement the systems feel under pressure from above “to make the figures transgress, while not driving unsafely. On the other hand many places where look good”. The consequence in respect of motoring regulations are needless drivers are apt to drive unsafely are not policed, thus severely diminishing the to say very much more serious, in that more people get killed and injured on effectiveness of the system. the roads. The consequences for higher education are somewhat more opaque. But one can speculate that real standards (i.e., what students have The purpose of Quality Assurance Schemes in Higher Education is to ensure actually learned) will decline. Consequently, as with price inflation, what an that academic standards are maintained. In such schemes inter alia much employer actually gets from college graduates may be increasingly be less than attention is given to pass and retention rates of students on courses. Akin to what the employer may have felt entitled to expect. More subtly, the object of the situation for Gardai, some teachers feel under pressure to ensure that pass education leans even more heavily towards the passing of examinations and rates on courses are high, or to be more precise that failure rates are low. It is the acquisition of certification as a means to employment. This could be said possible for teachers to ensure that failure rates are low by seeing to it that, to reflect an increasing depersonalisation and “commoditisation” of the individ- while official syllabi remain unaltered, what students are required to learn in ual as a unit of labour, perhaps an inevitable consequence of economic glob- order to pass is minimised. So for example, one can elide, or at least dilute, dif- alisation, as foretold by the now unfashionable Karl Marx. Nearly finished now, its amazing how fast the college year flies by but we have It wasn’t all serious these past few months though; at the end of March we the small matter of the end of year exams yet to go for most of us. To help you went to Combat Zone in Limerick where we pelted the crap out of rivals NUI get through and to celebrate all your hard work over the year the FloppySoc Galway in a great game of paintballing. Afterwards we headed to the BTown society will host an end of year party. Plans are being drawn up at the moment Bar for refreshments and then to Blu Bambu where they kindly let us in for free. to make it a party hard to forget so keep an eye out over the coming weeks or log onto http://www.floppysoc.com for further details. On the society front there was the small issue of the Cork Institute of Technology AIB Society awards, which took place on Tuesday 4th April in the The last two-months have been busy ones for the society as many large-scale Gresham Metropole Hotel. The FloppySoc Society bidding to take home an events took place. One of them was the Robocode Ireland 2006 National pro- award for the first time in many years were awarded the “Best Course Based gramming competition (http://www.robocode.ie) being held in Tipperary Society” for their course based activities throughout the year. To add to the cel- Institute, Thurles, where colleges from all over Ireland took part. Cork Institute ebrations for the society the FloppySoc Chairman Brian Bermingham was of Technology where represented by DCOM1 computing students Alan Morey awarded an Individual award for his hard work and commitment throughout and Andrew Adams with their robot "ChuckNorris", under the stewardship of the year. A big thanks must go out to all the people who contributed and lecturer Jim Doyle. The CIT team made light work of the qualifying rounds and attended theses events in the past year without their support these awards entered a commanding position in the semi-final where they got to tweak and could not have being achieved. improve their robots performance in a specially constructed “code bunker”. Continuing on from the success of the CIT Society Awards, CIT duly hosted the The final proved to be a real Cork and Dublin battle with the CIT team pitting national equivalent the Board of Irish College Societies (BICS their wits against a talented team from Dublin Institute of Technology with their http://www.bics.ie) awards on the 13th of April. The FloppySoc Society was robot deceptively called “Spinning Banana”. A Trojan battle ensued with CIT nominated for “Most Improved Society” and “Best Website” which was an hon- holding a slender lead going into the final round. CIT didn’t slip up in what our in itself. Colleges including DCU, DIT, UCC and NUIG to name a few attend- proved to be a highly entertaining final coming away with the honours to great ed the awards ceremony in the Rochestown Park Hotel after a gruelling day of applause from the large crowd attending. The winners picked up the Tipperary interviews in the Bishopstown campus. Unfortunately FloppySoc did not pick Crystal ICS RoboCode Challenge Trophy along with soundcards and headsets up an award on the night but not all was lost for CIT with the International for the competitors and I.T. equipment for the Computing department. Well Student Society wining the “Best Society in a Small College” award, congratu- done to the team for their hard work and great programming skill to bring to lations to their great achievement. Also a great amount of praise must be given title to Cork and CIT. Hopefully we can go on and try to retain it next year. to the ever hard working Societies Officer, Mervyn O’Mahony and his CIT team for hosting the event. Another unique event organised by the FloppySoc was the successful Careers Seminar simply titled “Graduates Speaking About Life After Their Degree”. Both Again the FloppySoc Society would like to wish all students the best of luck in students and staff found the event to be equally interesting and informative their exams, to invite you to the end of year party and also to post your com- with some students are now planning on doing a masters because of what the ments, photos and ideas over the summer months on the FloppySoc website speakers had to say. Our speakers included Donagh Kiernan (Maidsfield); John (http://www.floppysoc.com). Until we meet again take care. McDermot (Motorola); Alan McGibney and Donna Griffin (PhD Research, CIT - Adaptive Wireless Systems Group) all of whom were graduates from the FloppySoc Committee Department of Computing who all gave great talks on what they did in college http://www.floppysoc.com/gallery2 to where they are now. FloppySoc would like to thank Jonathan Sherwin for all his help in organising this event.

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

Thank you for once again making the Rochestown Park Hotel CIT’s number one Ball Venue for 2006.We hope to see you all again next year. Self Help Africa Fashion Show CIT Self Help for Africa Society held its first fashion show on Wednesday 15th of March in Silver Springs Moran Hotel. The show was held in response to the grow- ing food shortages in Eastern Africa and will aid famine prevention and sustainable rural development in Eritrea, Kenya and Ethiopia. Over e5000 was raised on the night. This will now be multiplied by six by the ‘Irish Government’, ‘European Union’, ‘Band Aid Trust’ and other agencies giving the national Self Help organisation over e35,000 to use in its work in Africa.

Chairman of the CIT Self Help Society, Colm Crowley said, “The Self Help for Africa Society travelled on its first trip to Kenya last June and have a particular concern for its citizens. Personally I have also been to Ethiopia and I have seen debts of pover- ty unimaginable in the 21st century. These people need our direct action and help”. He added, “The show displayed a variety of Corks finest clothing including kids, casual and evening wear for both males and females. The show also incorporated African Drumming, and Harpist, Ruth O’hAodha. It was a must for all fashion enthu- siasts and provided a great evening’s entertainment for all while helping those most worthy of our assistance. Although our efforts are only a drop in the ocean we must continue to do the best we can to help those who so desperately need our help”.

LIVE MUSIC - BBQ’s - PARTY FUN BEER GARDEN - GAMES & PRIZES

BEST OF LUCK WITH EXAMS & ENJOY SUMMER! by Eoin Deane, CIT Rugby Coach

Senior Team With this in mind I feel they are very close to establishing themselves as a force Due to the atrocious weather we had during October and the beginning of in Colleges rugby and with Bill Kavanagh (Staff), Stuart Donaldson and Tom November leading to the cancellation of games and also due to a walkover Mee (Students0 at the helm the future looks very bright for “The Mariners” given to Tallaght IT (due to a glut of injuries in late November), the CIT firsts had a very slow start to their quest to right last seasons one point defeat in the Freshers final, however in December the Team travelled to The Garda training college The freshers unfortunately failed to make it out of the pool stages this year. and announced their arrival to the league with a great 17-0 victory. A number Having defeated Maynooth and Carlow away we felt that this team could of the players (Maurice Power (Club President), Jim Mackessy, Joe Moynihan, mount a serious challenge for the title, however a one point defeat at the hands Ollie McGlinchy, Colin Mahony, Colin Corkery, Jeff Hitchmough, Tommy Mee) of WIT meant that our progression to the knockouts was halted. Disappointing also took part in the successful Munster Colleges Team that won the inter-pros as this is I have no doubt that the new kids on the block can even further steer for the second year running. After the Christmas break the team suffered a the college forward in the coming years. The team was run by Players Kelvin defeat away at the hands of AIT, but progressed to the semi-finals thanks to a Maye, Darren Frahill and Alan McKessy as well as staff John Murphy, Don Spicer fantastic performance against WIT The teams opponents in the semi was non and Bernard O’Callaghan. As a large number of this team has made it into both other than the team that beat us in the final last year (LIT), so the players were the senior team squads I would hope that they will enjoy some success later relishing the opportunity to avenge that defeat, however on a very controver- this year. sial day in Limerick CIT failed in their quest going down to LIT by 16 points to 11 and so ended their run in this years competition. The team committee of Appointment Maurice Power, Tim Ryan, Paul Hurley, John Murphy, Eoin Deane and Bernard This season has seen the appointment of John Murphy (6157) by The Munster O’Callaghan are working tirelessly to achieve the clubs ultimate goal of lifting Branch to the position of Rugby Development Officer in CIT John plays rugby the ICRU All-Ireland Colleges title for the first time and have vowed to contin- for Highfield RFC and has played representative rugby with Ireland at U19 and ue that work until the college achieves this goal U21.

Senior Ladies CIT Back on Campus The ladies struggled at the start of the year due to a shortage of players but After almost nine years off the campus, due to the CIT pitch becoming the Astro through hard work from Mary Wade and John Murphy they finally got the turf pitches, CIT Rugby is back to where it belongs. With the rugby pitch in required numbers out training and beat a very fancied UCC side in the opening immaculate condition (thanks to Pearse McNamara and his team) we would round of the League in December. They continued the good work after the love to see staff and students coming along to the numerous matches that will Christmas break and reached the semi final phase of the league where they be played there over the coming months – I promise you that you will be played WIT After controlling the game for long periods the girls were very impressed by the standard that is on show here in the College unlucky to concede a breakaway try with minutes remaining to lose out 17-14. Chairperson Mary Wade led the club superbly this year and hopefully they will Bursaries bring home the silverware next year that they truly deserve for their fantastic Bursaries this year went to Tim Ryan (Captain of the Senior Team this year and effort last), Dave Ryan (Munster Academy Member, Munster & Irish U21 and a mem- ber of the winning Freshers team last year) and Batt Duggan (Munster & Irish Senior Seconds U21 and member of the winning Freshers team last year). The seconds team has been the major success this year. Competing in Division 2 of the ICRU league they have gotten through the first phase of games Tag Rugby unscathed with impressive wins over Colaiste Spioraid Naofa, National Commenced in early March and is a great fun way for getting fresh air into the Maritime College of Ireland, Tralee I.T., Carlow I.T. and Athlone I.T. The victory lungs and becoming fit without even realising it. It is also a great way of mak- against A.I.T. was especially significant as it was the first time that any CIT team ing new friends so I would encourage all staff and students to came out and has gone to Athlone and come away victorious and was all the more satisfying give it a try. Details will be on notice boards, staff emails and/or from John as Colin Corkery kicked the team to victory with the last kick of the game. The Murphy (6157) team being managed by players Willy McCarthy and Dave Lucey and staff John Murphy, Aidan McDonald and Don Spicer are also into the knock out stages of Triple Crown. their competition and must now rank as one of the favourites I would like to congratulate three former students Denis Leamy, David Wallace and Donnacha O’Callaghan on claiming the Triple Crown by beating England at CIT/N.M.C.I. Twickenham in March. This was a tremendous achievement and hopefully we The National Maritime College entered the Division two competition this year, will be able to arrange for the three players to come in with the crown in the having founded the club only last year, and have fulfilled all their fixtures to not to distant future date. They have been very unlucky in two of these fixtures having been beaten away to Carlow by the narrowest of margins (9-8) and to Tralee I.T. (16-13). Eoin Deane CIT GAA Club End of Year Review by Keith Ricken

“...The junior footballers also captured All Ireland glory with a flawless campaign beating WIT, UCC, NUIG, UCD and finally beating UUJ in a pulsating final in Dublin...”

It was another action filled year for the Institutes biggest club whose member- The Senior Hurlers went down to WIT in their National Hurling League Final ship is now currently over 500 students. With eighteen teams involved in com- after a great run. The Senior Ladies Football team lost to UUJ in the final of the petition, we had barely time to draw our breath as we went from game to Senior Colleges O’Connor Shield, while there were defeats too for the Junior game, over One Hundred and Sixty of them, plying our skills against those of hurlers and the Fresher 2 and 3 Hurlers in their respective finals. The Camogie the other 3rd level establishments of Ireland in the art of hurling, football, team were also runners up to UCD in the final of the Senior 7 aside while the camogie, ladies football and handball. We ran coaching courses and confer- freshers had succumbed to UCC in the final of the “B” All Ireland. ences and a very successful GAA Ball at the Commons. The response to our annual draw was phenomenal and this coupled with a stream of other social Success however comes in many forms and while silverware and national events, some of them planned and others in response to win, loss or even a acclaim is how many view success, those of you who have been involved in draw, it really has been a whirl wind of activity since we began last September. sport for any period of time will appreciate the deeper levels where success can be found. Success is in the friends you make, the memories you have, the bat- On the field of play we had our successes as well as our disappointments. The tles and journeys shared, the emotions experienced and pride that is taken in Senior Camogie team captured their first ever senior camogie title with a win putting on the jersey to represent your College, Club or County. over NUIG and then Garda College to win the Ashbourne Shield in Limerick. So while winning adds to the taste of success it certainly can’t claim to be its The Intermediate hurlers having already captured the Munster 3rd level sole ingredient. To all therefore, who have contributed in making this year the Championship with wins over UL and WIT in their semi final and final added success that it was, a sincere THANK YOU. To the Club Officers, Coaches, the All Ireland trophy to their collection with a semi-final win over GMIT and a Selectors, Supporters and most importantly the Players, your efforts are very memorable victory over LIT in the Final. much appreciated and we wish you every good wish with your exams and the summer holidays. For those who finish in CIT this year we wish you every suc- The junior footballers also captured All Ireland glory with a flawless campaign cess in the careers that you chose and hope your involvement with GAA club beating WIT, UCC, NUIG, UCD and finally beating UUJ in a pulsating final in has added to the positive experience of attending the Cork Institute of Dublin. At the time of writing our Intermediate footballers, having already Technology. We wish also to thank all the staff, especially those without whose secured the Munster Championship with victory over UCC, are now awaiting to cooperation none of this activity would have happened. In particularly we play their All Ireland final against DIT having defeated DCU in their semi-final. would like to recognise all those involved in Student Services, Sports and Societies, Students’ Union, Caretakers and the Administrative staff. Finally to While the Fresher Footballers won the John Galvin U21 football tournament for those in the academia, Heads of School, Department heads, Course the second year running All Ireland success eluded them when the surprising- Coordinators and the Lecturing staff for you understanding and support of all ly bowed out against UCD in a replay ? final. our students. We look forward to working with you all again next year.

We had also a string of unsuccessful final appearances this season and while Keith Ricken being beaten in a final is always difficult, there is some consolation in recognis- GAA Officer CIT ing the achievement of reaching them.

INTERESTED IN MEDICAL RESEARCH? WE REQUIRE HEALTHY MALES & FEMALES AGED 18 - 50 TO PARTICIPATE IN CLINICAL STUDIES. PARTICIPANTS ARE FINANCIALLY COMPENSATED FOR THEIR TIME AND EXPENSES. FREE PHONE 1800-201365 TEL: (021) 4505933 (BETWEEN 9AM-4PM) OR E-MAIL: [email protected] ww.shandonclinic.ie Suas Volunteer Programme 2006 The Suas Society CIT proudly presents its first participant required to contribute ?2,950 toward the total cost of the on the Suas Volunteer Programme, Joanne Scobie, a sec- programme so Joanne will be organising all sorts of ond year student at the Crawford College of Art and fundraising events over the next few months. If you have Design. Suas is an Irish charity concerned with education- any fundraising suggestions please email Joanne at al development both in Ireland and abroad. Every year the [email protected]. Suas Volunteer programme offers enthusiastic young peo- ple the chance to make a difference by volunteering in You can find more information on the Suas volunteer pro- community run projects in India and Kenya during the gramme at www.suas.ie. summer months. Suas has a number of societies through out the colleges of This year Joanne has been placed in India. She will be Ireland which promote educational development at home working as a volunteer with an NGO called Prayas that by running homework clubs, holding fundraisers and lots aims to provide basic needs – shelter, food and education more. The Suas Society of CIT meets every Wednesday at to slum children in Dehli suburbs. Each volunteer is 1.15pm in B227.

The success of ‘Battle of the Bands’ was evi- dent for the second year in a row, giving CIT Bands the chance to show their talent and skill as performers and artists, in which ‘Captain Insano’ claimed first place and ‘Loaded Gun Effect’ took second place (all the heats and final were free of charge to everyone). The final was held in Crúiscín Lán on Wednesday 15th March.

w.igriecm-pzl 001-3 puzzle - www.fingertime.com 001-2 puzzle - www.fingertime.com w wfnetm.o uze001-1 puzzle - ww.fingertime.com

www.fingertime.com - puzzle 001-4 The Closestwww.fingertime.com - puzzle 001-5 Purpose-Built Student DAILY FINGERTIME Accommodation to CIT • CCTV Security System SU DOKU • Direct Walkway to CIT Accommodation • Professional Office Staff Prices from !55 per Print and fold me for the journey • City Centre Bus Route week in academic year to work. • On-Campus Parking 2006/07 • Full Broadband Internet Connection to CIT 001 Each row, column and cell must contain the numbers 1 to 9 without any duplicates to solve the puzzle. GOOD LUCK!

Get solutions and more free Su Doku puzzles from http://fingertime.com/sudoku.php

Fill in the grid, ensuring that each column and row and every 3 x 3 box contains the numbers 1-9. (The same number cannot appear twice in any row,, columncolumn or 3 x 3 box at any time). Model Farm Road, Cork Win Limited Edition expliCIT Rugby Shirt (021)4545200 Word Search PuzzleTo enter simply return completed sudoku puzzle in http://puzzlemaker.school.discovery.com/code/BuildWordSearch.asp evelope with Email: [email protected] your name, class and contact details to the SU shop in c143 by www.parchmentsquarecork.com Friday 12th May 2006 May 2006

This Month’s Prize:

OOSVCUAYOTTNUES MAY Limited Edition expliCIT Rugby Jersey NOINUEGPIHMLXYT EXPLICIT RXQOGVTCPCUAETN APPEALS KODAGFIUYEMMYRE CITSU PHHTBLFWTIAKJAD CORK USXEPOYONILLKPU INSTITUTE IURXBXWADUTMSMT TECHNOLOGY YMEVKZTTRJUSOZS STUDENTS LMHOLIDAYSUVNPU UNION WEGCORKHTVIPWID MOVING SUMMER ERDNRPYIKNOBRTE HOLIDAYS SRSGNLCDGLLTLRG STUDY ASQYJWBMUPVEDSJ EXAMINATIONS FJHHATGGVTMZTPT PARTY Competition Closes 5pm Friday 12th May 2006 YGOLONHCETSNEHU Last Months Winner: John O’Driscoll

Competition Rules: All Entries to be returned by deadline to Students’ Union Main Office (C143) on official form. Winner MUST be a CIT Student and one entry per person.

APPEALS CITSU CORK EXAMINATIONS EXPLICIT HOLIDAYS INSTITUTE MAY MOVING PARTY STUDENTS STUDY SUMMER TECHNOLOGY UNION

15 of 15 words were placed into the puzzle. Solution

Created by Puzzlemaker at DiscoverySchool.com

1of1 26/04/2006 01:39